inside this issue
HOW RIHANNA IS GIVING BACK NEW TO THE PROPERTY MARKET? PRIORITISING ‘NEED VS NICE’ IN YOUR HOUSE HUNT PLUS ALL OF THIS MONTH’S PROPERTIES
THE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE BROUGHT TO YOU BY FISKS | ISSUE 49
Contents How Rihanna is giving back Proceeds of Rihanna’s Beauty Line will go to Help Malawi Women and Children.
New to the property market? Selling your property for the first time can be daunting and scary, but with our top tips, you’ll be sold in no time!
Prioritising ‘need vs nice’ in your house hunt Can you separate the needs from the nice to haves?
Our properties Last, but certainly not least, you can find all of this month’s feature properties throughout the magazine. Enjoy!
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Welcome to our
magazine... Welcome to the September edition of our Gateway magazine.
John Pring FNAEA (Honoured) & MARLA | Director
I was surprised to be reminded that this month is the 10 year anniversary of the Financial Crash, with all the news outlets leading with pictures of the Lehman Brother’s staff exiting their skyscraper at Canary Wharf. The residential property market was to the fore in these news broadcasts with predictions of a huge crash. There is no doubt that prices did fall – this is a fact – although not as much as the experts were predicting. The number of transactions also fell. Prices have now recovered and exceed this low point by a substantial margin. However the transaction levels, although improved, still have some way to go to reach the levels pre-2008. As to the future, we do not believe that there will be another crash in house prices, although transaction levels will remain static. Continuing the theme on the property market, there are two articles in this edition with hints for buyers and sellers. The distinction between ‘needs’ and ‘wants’ is fundamental. We all want things but do we need them? When talking to an estate agent most people talk about ‘wants’. We would comment that however much money you have to spend you will always have to compromise. These compromises must be in the ‘wants’ list as your needs are fundamental. For an updated Sales or Lettings valuation, to see your property in our October Gateway magazine or for further advice, please contact your local Fisks branch.
fisks.co.uk
Meet our
Benfleet Team Our centrally located estate and letting agency branch offers a professional sales, lettings and property management service for Benfleet and the surrounding areas benefitting from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.
THERE ARE A LOT OF ESTATE AGENTS BUT ONLY ONE FISKS “We gave our property to Fisks when we decided to move as Ian seemed the most professional of the three agents who we asked to value our property. Boy are we glad we did house sold to the first viewers in 36 hours from instructing Fisk’s. We were kept up to date with regular calls and nothing was too much trouble. Now we have moved Ian is collecting post from our old address for us and calling for us to collect from the office. Beyond the call of duty Great service thanks again Martin and Melanie Bagnall “
Located some 30 miles east of the City of London on the north bank of the Thames Estuary, Benfleet is primarily based around three historically separate settlements; South Benfleet, Thundersley and Hadleigh. which gradually merged during the 20th century. The residential areas are now said to have the highest proportion of owner occupancy in the country which speaks volumes for the quality of life here! The mainland station in South Benfleet services the entire area and is the busiest commuting station on the Fenchurch Street C2C line.
AWARD WINNING
2016
Fisks 146 London Road, Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T 01268 565555 F 01268 566291 E benfleet@fisks.co.uk
fisks.co.uk
LOCAL
WOODBURN CLOSE, BENFLEET £290,000 Modernised and refurbished throughout, this three bedroom mid-terraced property is perfect for first time buyers, families or buy to let investors. The property has a modern fitted kitchen, good sized lounge/diner and a rear garden mainly laid to lawn with a patio area. Energy Band – D.
CALL 01268 565555
MAYTREE WALK, BENFLEET £329,995 This lovely semi-detached house has been updated to a high standard and features a nice sized lounge, a large dining room/reception room and an extended fitted kitchen. On the first floor there is a spacious main bedroom with a dressing area, two further double bedrooms and a modernised family bathroom. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 565555
QUEENS LODGE, BENFLEET £200,000 Immaculate two bedroom apartment located on the sought after Queens Lodge development. Internally the property offers a good sized lounge with space for a dining table, a fitted kitchen and a large loft space for storage. There is also the added bonus of two parking spaces with visitor permits available. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 565555
OSBORNE ROAD, BASILDON OIRO £280,000 This well-maintained and spacious contemporary end of terraced property is located close to Basildon town centre and benefits from a good sized lounge, fitted kitchen/diner, three bedrooms, and a separate toilet and bathroom. The rear garden is un-overlooked and is mainly laid to lawn with an access gate to the rear. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 565555
fisks.co.uk
ASQUITH GARDENS, BENFLEET £410,000 Recently redecorated and modernised four bedroom detached house set on a good sized corner plot. The property benefits from a large lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, modernised family bathroom and a landscaped garden. There is also a hardstanding driveway and a garage. Energy Band – F.
CALL 01268 565555
HOMEFIELDS AVENUE, BENFLEET £330,000-£340,000 This well-presented detached bungalow features a west-backing garden of approximately 130ft in length. The property offers a 19ft lounge, 20ft kitchen/diner, two double bedrooms and a third bedroom/study, together with a three piece bathroom. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 565555
SHIPWRIGHTS DRIVE, BENFLEET £425,000 Extended and detached bungalow presented to a high standard and offering plenty of space. Internally the property features a modern fitted kitchen, large lounge and dining room, four bedrooms and a family bathroom. The rear garden is un-overlooked and mainly laid to lawn with a patio area. Energy Band – E.
CALL 01268 565555
How Rihanna is giving back Proceeds of Rihanna’s Beauty Line will go to Help Malawi Women and Children
HOW RIHANNA IS GIVING BACK
Image credit: Andrea Raffin Shutterstock.com
Rihanna is the name on everyone’s lips lately with her September Vogue cover (the first coveted September issue with a black woman on the cover), her new beauty line, her fashion week shows, and her latest hint at her foray back into music with a new album. Yet perhaps the most exciting part of her new ventures is how she’s giving back, with the singer set to donate money from her latest beauty launch to a charity that helps women and children in need. The 30-year-old singer’s Clara Lionel Foundation will partner with the Global Partnership for Education and the Campaign for Female Education in order to provide scholarships to girls in Malawi. The executive director of Rihanna’s charity, explained: “We hope that this collaboration allows the Fenty Beauty community to feel not only like they’re part of the CLF journey but also that they can take action on issues they are passionate about. “At the heart of our mission is the idea that everyone can play a part in creating a more just and equitable world by contributing in their own way.” On August 1, FENTY Beauty, Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty’s namesake cosmetic brand, announced the new partnership with the Clara Lionel Foundation to help fund mission critical work in education and emergency responsiveness. With the release of its limited-edition “Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter,” Fenty Beauty has committed to donate 100 percent of every purchase of the makeup highlighter to help improve livelihoods everywhere.
Image credit: JStone Shutterstock.com
Rihanna has focused an ever-increasing amount of her attention on her fashion and beauty labels over recent years. “This very special silver Killawatt takes highlight to a whole other level. It will have you glowing like never before because whenever you wear it, you’re supporting children and other people in need all around the world,” said Rihanna. And the Bajan star previously insisted she’s made a conscious effort to produce products for all body types. She added: “That was very intentional when I first started, even back with River Island. With [Fenty x Puma], I have so much freedom. I want everybody in my crew to have something. “You don’t just design for yourself. You use your taste as the muse of everything. I like to play around with silhouettes. Trust me, I could always use a good fat-day outfit. I like to be comfortable.” Rihanna is known globally for her sense of style, and she previously admitted she likes to take risks with her clothes. She said: “I enjoy new perspective. I get bored really easily, so I love when things can trigger an inspiration in my mind. Things I love the most are the things that I get jealous that I didn’t think of or come up with myself.” As thrilled as we are to see Rihanna make Vogue history with her September cover, we’re more excited to grab one of her new highlighters and be a part of helping women and girls get the education they deserve n
Image credit: Tinseltown shutterstock.com
HOW RIHANNA IS GIVING BACK
Image credit: Andrea Raffin Shutterstock.com
Meet our
Canvey Team Our office located at the heart of Canvey Town Centre offers a sales, lettings and property management service for Canvey Island and the surrounding areas and benefits from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.
GREAT PROFESSIONAL YET FRIENDLY AGENT “Gemma North & the Fisks team were incredibly easy to work with .....even from 3000 miles away in Canada. .Gemma was always available, polite ,freindly & returned calls swiftly . .The whole transaction went smoothly with many excellent recommendations for other professionals ie solicitors, inspectors etc We would not hesitate to recommend or use Fisks in the future. Thank you so much for all your hard work !!!!�
AWARD WINNING
With excellent rail connections into the City from neighbouring Benfleet station, Canvey is today permanently connected to the mainland via two road bridges, offering fast access to the M25 and East Anglia via the A12 trunk road. However the island still manages to preserve an independent character and a vibrant community spirit all its own. Thanks to development in recent years, Canvey offers a wide range of exceptionally reasonably-priced property, from first time buyer apartments to detached executive homes - many with stunning views across to the wooded Hadleigh Downs, and along the estuary towards Southend.
2016
Fisks 85 Furtherwick Road, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7AY T 01268 510510 F 01268 697126 E canvey@fisks.co.uk
fisks.co.uk
LOCAL
GRIFFIN AVENUE, CANVEY £241,995 This detached conversion bungalow is a great size with a very large 17ft lounge, two double bedrooms and a decent 10ft x 8ft kitchen. Located in a nothrough road and situated on a good sized plot with space for off street parking. Energy Band – D.
CALL 01268 510510
LAKEVIEW, CANVEY £245,000 This semi-detached property boasts two double bedrooms and a smaller third bedroom, an open plan lounge/diner and an open plan kitchen overlooking the garden which is a generous size. The property has gas central heating and is doubleglazed throughout. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 510510
FURTHERWICK ROAD, CANVEY £350,000 This spacious detached house has all the features to be a fantastic family home. The property boasts four double bedrooms with a beautifully fitted en-suite to the master, a 19ft lounge, separate dining room, modern kitchen plus a garage with utility space. The garden is large and unoverlooked and there is off street parking for three cars. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 510510
ELDER TREE ROAD, CANVEY £249,995 This detached bungalow offers great value for money, featuring three double bedrooms, a large lounge, modern kitchen and a detached garage. The property also offers off street parking for a couple of cars and potential for more. It is conveniently located a short walk from the town, local schools and is nearby to main bus routes. Energy Band – E.
CALL 01268 510510
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MAY AVENUE, CANVEY £449,995 This stunning, extended detached home is perfect for a big family. The property boasts a massive 20ft x 16ft lounge/diner extension, five double bedrooms, three bathrooms including an en-suite and a good sized rear garden with a barbecue area. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 01268 510510
LINROPING AVENUE, CANVEY ISL £259,995 This detached bungalow has been extended into the garage creating a large L-shaped lounge/diner and a second bedroom. These two extensions create a huge amount of living space which has been welldecorated. The property also benefits from a newly fitted kitchen and bathroom. Energy Band – C.
CALL 01268 510510
NEW TO THE PROPERTY MARKET?
NEW TO THE PROPERTY MARKET? Selling your property for the first time can be daunting and scary, but with our top tips, you’ll be sold in no time!4
Image credit: Jirsak_shutterstock
NEW TO THE PROPERTY MARKET?
Selling your property isn’t always the easiest thing to do,
redecorating your home, then one thing to keep in mind
particularly if you are new to selling property and not
is that it should be as neutral as possible. You may not
quite sure how best to approach it. However, the great
like the idea of cream, beige or biscuit coloured walls,
thing about selling a property is that it is a learning curve
however, the person who is looking at your property may,
and with a little help you can soon find your way.
not only this, but having these neutral shades is going to
Always pick the right estate agent One of the best places to start when it comes to selling a property is with your estate agent. They are the
allow them to picture what they would like to do with the “blank canvas” which will really help when it comes to making a sale.
professional that is going to help you to not only sell your
Try not to be in during viewings
property but for the right price too, and you should take the
This one can be hard to do, particularly if a viewing is
time to find one that you not only feel knows what they are
at a time when you would normally be home, however,
doing, but that you also feel comfortable in trusting to sell
it can be worthwhile trying. You are going to want to
your home.
make sure that anyone coming to look at your property
Treat your home like a showhome In order to sell, your home needs to appeal to the people viewing it. This means that you are going to need to take a “showhome” approach to it, particularly if you want to make sure that the sale process goes as smoothly as possible. Think about things that are going to increase the appeal that your property has. Look at the kerb appeal (which means the
feels as comfortable as possible when they are looking around, and being there is one way to make them feel a little uncomfortable, and even like they need to rush things. If possible, arrange to be out when viewings are happening, as this will really help the viewer to visualize themselves in the property (a huge plus point when it comes to making a sale).
outside of the property and the garden) as well as taking the
As you can see, there are plenty of things that you can do
time to declutter and spruce up the interior of the property too.
to make sure that your home has the very best chance of
You would be surprised by just how much a spruce can do.
selling. What you do will really depend on your budget
But keep it neutral If you do decide that you need to make an effort
and timescale, however, the more that you can do, then the greater chance you have of not only selling the property, but getting the right price for it too n
Image credit: Photographee.eu
Image credit: LightField Studios
Meet our
Docklands Team Located at South Quay, at the foot of the pedestrian bridge to Canary Wharf, our Docklands office offers sales, lettings and property management services for the Docklands and Royal Docks area benefitting from ARLA and NAEA qualified staff.
GOOD PROMT AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE “Fisks have found 3 good tenants for me over 5 years, each time they handled the transaction with high professionalism, promptness and doing more than their job description to get the deal done. All details were accurate and checked thoroughly. Good team support. Happy landlord, happy tenant. “
The London Docklands area has been transformed into one of the most exciting commercial and residential environments in the world. Alongside the glittering office towers of Canary Wharf, a rich mix of developments, purpose-built luxury apartment blocks and warehouse conversions full of period character all making the maximum use of the spectacular waterside setting - have helped to make today’s Docklands the last word in sophisticated urban living. Transport links with the City via the Docklands Light Railway and the West End via the Jubilee Line are first class.
AWARD WINNING
2016
Benfleet & Canvey
Canary Wharf, Docklands & Royal Docks
Fisks Docklands Suite 2 Parker House, Admirals Way, Marsh Wall, London, E14 9UQ T 0207 517 8810 F 0207 517 7902 E docklands@fisks.co.uk
fisks.co.uk
KINGFISHER HEIGHTS, E16 £485,000-£500,000 Leasehold – Furnished two bedroom, two bathroom apartment featuring a good sized balcony with views of the Thames and the dramatic Thames Barrier. Conveniently located for Pontoon Dock DLR providing access to Canary Wharf. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 0207 517 8810
MILLHARBOUR, E14 £650,000 Leasehold - Two bedroom, two bathroom apartment featuring direct dock views from all the principal rooms. The internal accommodation includes an open plan living area with access to a good sized balcony. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 0207 517 8810
GOUGH WALK, E14 £425,000-£450,000 Leasehold - Beautifully presented ground floor maisonette benefiting from an open plan kitchen and reception, three bedrooms, a family bathroom and a separate lavatory. An appealing feature is a good sized south facing terrace accessed via French doors from the living room. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 0207 517 8810
LONDON CITY ISLAND, E14 £360 pw Brand new one bedroom apartment boasting a high quality and stylish bathroom and kitchen. A good sized balcony is accessed from the living room and the bedroom benefits from a fitted wardrobe. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 0207 517 8810
TAEPING STREET, E14 £375 pw Two bedroom flat with oblique dock views. The property comes fully furnished and has ample storage available plus use of a private off street parking bay. Located close to Mudchute DLR providing access to Greenwich, Canary Wharf and connections to the Jubilee Line. Energy Band – Awaiting.
CALL 0207 517 8810
MANCHESTER ROAD, E14 £415 pw Three bedroom terrace house presented in good condition. The kitchen and bathrooms are both finished in a contemporary style and the rear garden is accessed via the living room. The property further benefits from use of an allocated parking bay. Located moments from Island Gardens DLR station. Energy Band – C.
CALL 0207 517 8810
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WEST INDIA QUAY, E14 £540 pw Fully furnished one bedroom luxury apartment boasting floor to ceiling windows. Accommodation includes an ensuite benefiting from a twin sink vanity unit and a separate guest cloakroom. Located close to West India quay DLR and Canary Wharf tube. Energy Band – B.
CALL 0207 517 8810
THE GRAINSTORE, E16 £370 pw Stunning two bedroom, two bathroom apartment including a high specification kitchen, guest bathroom and en-suite shower room. Occupants will enjoy use of a large private courtyard garden and concierge service. Located moments from Royal Victoria DLR. Energy Band – D.
CALL 0207 517 8810
NEW PROVIDENCE WHARF, E14 £395 pw Furnished one bedroom apartment presented in excellent condition and includes a separate high specification kitchen, good sized living room with balcony and a bathroom finished to a high standard. A secure parking bay is also available with the property at extra cost. Energy Band – C.
CALL 0207 517 8810
Image credit: JR-stock_shutterstock
PRIORITISING ‘NEED VS NICE’ IN YOUR HOUSE HUNT
Prioritising ‘need vs nice’ in your house hunt Can you separate the needs from the nice to haves?4
PRIORITISING ‘NEED VS NICE’ IN YOUR HOUSE HUNT
Image credit: Alexander Raths
House hunting is something that can rarely be accomplished in a week or two, it will often require a lot of viewings, endless hours searching online and a lot of planning. One of the reasons many people struggle when it comes to finding a new house is because they don’t have their needs and nice to haves worked out. Or even worse they could have them back to front, if you’re basing your decisions based solely on your nice to haves then get ready for a long search because finding a house with everything you’d like to have will be very difficult! So, what are your needs and nice to haves? Your needs are the most important things and the things you should prioritise above all else! The nice to haves are things you want but don’t actually need, think of it like this you might like gardening and therefore want a big garden. But if you could still enjoy your hobby with a small garden then it’s a nice to have and not something you actually need. Needs and nice to haves will vary from person to person depending on their unique circumstances so let’s have a look at some prime examples, shall we? Bedrooms Bedrooms are one of the most important parts of anyone’s house search- if you’re living alone you might still want an extra room for guests. But it’s important you know the distinction
Image credit: Natasa Adzic
between a want and a need when it comes to bedrooms. A guest room might be nice but it’s not an essential is it? Which means it should go on the nice to have list and not be a priority. The Location The location of your new home is going to be one of the most important aspects when you’re searching. But despite this it can still be something many people fail to prioritise, do you need a home close to work or can you afford to commute? There are other important things to consider like catchment areas for schools and local amenities as well. Bathrooms Just like with bedrooms, bathrooms are another important priority. If you have a disability or live with someone who does, a downstairs bathroom might be essential. If you have a big family then you might think it is essential to have more than one but in many cases that is more of a nice to have and not an essential. The Size Just how big do you need your house to be? If you’re living alone or there are just two people you might not need a lot of space. Don’t get me wrong, you might want a big house but you won’t actually need it, will you? Whereas a big family will likely need to prioritise the size of any house they’re searching for in order to ensure everyone has enough room.
A Garden I previously mentioned gardens as an example of a need to have vs a nice to have. But gardens are often a point of heavy debate- some people will make them their main priority while other people simply won’t care if they have one or not. So, gardens are something that really comes to down to personal opinion in many respects. How Do You Workout Your Needs And Nice To Haves? Working out your need to haves and your nice to haves can be quite tricky because it will all come down to your own personal views and circumstances. But if you’re struggling to decide what fits into each category I do have some advice. Simply think about what you really need. Do you need three bedrooms or can you get by with just two? Do you need a house that is only 10 minutes from work when you could get one further away and take the bus or drive instead? Be honest and firm with yourself and list your need to haves and nice to haves on two separate lists, then use those to help you search for your new property. In the end, you might not be able to tick off all your nice to haves but in the majority of cases, you’ll still find a property offering some of them. And best of all you will find a property that meets all your essential needs n
Image credit: Monkey Business
2016
Benfleet Fisks Ltd 146 London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 565555 F: 01268 566291 E: benfleet@fisks.co.uk
Why use Fisks?
Canvey Fisks Ltd 85 Furtherwick Road Canvey Island Essex, SS8 7AY
Members of NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) and ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents).
T: 01268 510510 F: 01268 697126 E: canvey@fisks.co.uk
Audited clients account
Docklands Fisk Docklands Ltd Suite 2 Parker House Admirals Way Marsh Wall London, E14 9UQ
Free rent guarantee insurance with management plus Option to spread payments over the length of lease (subject to Terms of Business) Three levels of service offered: Let Only, Management and Management Plus
T: 0207 517 8810 F: 0207 517 7902 E: docklands@fisks.co.uk Head Office 146a London Road Benfleet Essex, SS7 5SQ T: 01268 750000 F: 01268 758921 E: office@fisks.co.uk Property Management: 0207 517 8811
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To experience our service, put us to the test! Contact your local branch at Benfleet, Canvey or Docklands