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LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

PROPERTY NEWS

MARCH 2020

GROW YOUR OWN!

HARVEST YOUR OWN CROPS - IN YOUR GARDEN IMPROVE YOUR INTERIOR ADD STYLE AND COLOUR TO YOUR HOME

MOVING FOR A NEW JOB? FOLLOW OUR ADVICE FOR A SUCCESSFUL MOVE

TIME TO SPA! TREAT YOUR BODY AND MIND

BE FASHION READY FASHION ESSENTIALS FOR YOU AND THE FAMILY

CONTENTS COVER STORY

Grow your own Time to dig up the lawn and grow your own vegetables

PROPERTY

Improve your home’s interior Add new life to your home by adding style and colour

Moving for a new job? Top tips when moving for a job

15 16 26

Your role as a landlord Understand just what your tenant expects from you as its landlord Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market About us Get to know us a little better and see why we are your agent of choice

FOOD

Spring is in the air Featuring a luscious lamb dish for the family to enjoy

LIFESTYLE

Bond is back! Daniel Craig’s fifth and final outing as 007 arrives in April Be fashion ready Don’t be caught out and about without your fashion essentials!

TRAVEL

Time to spa There’s nothing like a day of pampering to put you in the right frame of mind to face the world. But where to go?

SPORT

The US Masters A preview of the 84th US Masters which tees off this April

WELCOME TO THE MARCH ISSUE!

he days are getting longer and the nights are getting shorter; a good sign that we are moving towards thoughts of warmer weather and longer, balmy nights. OK, we may be getting a little carried away but the warmer weather will be very much welcomed by all. When it comes to property, years ago it was highly unusual for homeowners not to have a vegetable patch. Post-war austerity and a limited amount of produce in the shops meant it was the only way to get fresh veg and vitamins into the daily diet. The arrival of the supermarket changed that but now the wheel

PROPERTY NEWS

has turned full circle and ‘homegrown’ is fast becoming the norm again. But how do you grow your own? Find out inside. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life or just want to treat someone special, then take a peek at our spa feature. The health benefits of visiting a spa cannot be overstated, particularly for mental well-being, so we look at what you can expect on a spa visit. As ever, there is plenty of support and advice on property inside this issue which is sure to keep you reading. So, enjoy and we’ll see you next time. Linda McKeown Editor

The words DIY – or doing it yourself – can often instill fear into any homeowner, but it doesn’t have to be that way. A lick of paint and new finishing touches can make a property go from oh to wow.

EMPHASISE THE FOCAL POINT IN THE ROOM Find the room’s focal point and look to emphasise this feature. This could be a fireplace, feature wall or a bay window. Don’t have a feature? Then create one! Doing this is much easier than you may think; paint a wall a different colour and accessorise with artwork or shelving.

ADD A LICK OF COLOUR

Perhaps the easiest – and most affordable – way to bring a room to life is to add a coat of paint. However, don’t rush it! Focus instead on working on small and manageable sections to avoid the feeling of biting off more than you can chew. It’s important to feel that you are making progress, rather than being left with the feeling that your decorating is never ending. To kick-start the painting in any room, remember to focus on all edges first, including windows, door frames, light switches and other nooks and crannies, before applying the main section of paint. Also, don’t forget to put down old sheets or blankets to help protect surfaces from paint splashes; it’ll save you time and potential heartache as you won’t have to spend time cleaning the carpet if you have any mishaps.

Before you start any work, it’s vital that you set a budget and prepare a list of things you need to complete the job

ADD NEW LIFE TO YOUR HOME

Update your interior by adding style and colour; it’s one of the easiest ways to freshen up the look and feel of your home

ensure that you measure all the spaces you have, so that you can be confident that there won’t be any sizing issues once you get your new goods through the door!

SHOULD YOU DIY OR GET A PROFESSIONAL IN?

Whether you do it yourself or enlist the help of a professional depends on several different factors; your budget, experience and available time!

Top tip: Buy testers in the paint that you like and paint small samples on the walls to see which fits best with the plans that you have for the room

HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS Using the best – and the right – tools, such as brushes, paint and rollers are key to getting the finish just right. Now that doesn’t mean expensive is always best; we recommend for going midrange – so not the cheapest and not the most expensive.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES Once you have finished all your painting and decorating of walls, ceiling and woodwork, then it’s time to focus on the final touches. Adding vases, scatter cushions and throws to a living room will encourage more warmth. However, remember not to go the other way and add so much that the area looks cluttered. Keep your eyes peeled for inspiration from things you see day to day – whether that be in magazines, on TV or in homes you’ve been viewing online!

Perhaps the easiest – and most affordable – way to bring a room to life is to add a coat of paint

YOUR BUDGET

Before you start any work, it’s vital that you set a budget and prepare a list of things you need to complete the job. It’s easy to become over excited and spend money on things that you don’t need. Shop around for the best deals and

The positive factors of hiring a professional interior designer and/or decorator is that it can save you time (and stress), as they will be qualified in knowing the latest trends and what designs will work well for certain spaces. Search for decorators in your area and keep an eye out for those with positive reviews; word of mouth can be a godsend so ask for recommendations via your social media channels.

Even changing simple things like door handles on your interior doors can really change the feel of a property. It can be quite pricey to refurnish a home, so to help keep costs down look to update any of your old furniture with a re-varnish or a coat of paint too.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

REAP WHAT YOU SOW 4

PROPERTY NEWS

With plant-based diets on the increase, now might be the time to dig up the lawn and grow your own vegetables

ears ago, it was highly unusual for homeowners not to have a vegetable patch. Whether it was just a strip running alongside the lawn or turning the whole garden into a backyard allotment, post-war austerity and a limited amount of produce in the shops meant it was the only way to get fresh veg and vitamins into the daily diet. However, the arrival of the supermarket changed that, and now we can buy what was once termed ‘seasonal’ produce year-round, thanks to advanced farming methods, high-speed global transportation and rapid refrigeration. But now the wheel has turned full circle and ‘home-grown’ is fast becoming the norm again, either out of necessity or because, in this health-conscious world, there is a hunger to know the food on our plates is free from any artificial interference.

CAN YOU DIG IT?

Well, if you’re staring at a blank canvas, congratulations, you’ve avoided the back-straining bit. If, however, you want to convert part, or all, of your garden then the best time to start the groundwork is autumn, allowing nature to take its course over the colder months. But if you want to start off with light produce, spring is as good a time as any to start. And start small. Don’t dig it all up and discover you’ve taken on more than you can chew. If you are lifting lawn, cut it into squares, stack it and it will decompose, producing loamy soil and this can be added to the top. Alternatively, you can bury the turf a spade’s depth down and it will feed the soil.

If you are looking to plant in a vacant patch of ground, consider covering the area with a black weed-suppressing membrane and, even after weeds have died, do not turn the soil over for at least a couple of weeks and then let the winter weather break down the clods. By spring, the soil will hopefully be fine and powdery – unless it is clay-based, meaning it will be colder and wetter. Therefore, planting needs greater patience although, on the flip side, clay soil can hold on to nutrients better.

Lighting is crucial. Don’t plant in full shade – some veg can cope with dappled shade, but most like the sun. Also pick a spot sheltered from the wind if you can.

WHEN AND WHAT TO PLANT

The key to vegetable growing is timing. Wait for spring, making sure the grass is growing and birds are nesting before you start to get busy. It may be best to start with plants that go in and out of the ground within weeks – carrots or salads are best. Many experts feel it’s best to start with potatoes, which condition the soil as they break it down. And the early months of the new year are the best time to buy the first and second early varieties so they can be placed somewhere cool and light to ‘chit’ (produce small shoots). Then they can be planted mid-April for lifting before potato blight becomes an issue in late July and August. A good variety to start with is Foremost, an old favourite introduced more than 50 years ago. The round, white-fleshed tubers are firm and waxy when young and retain their fine taste. Carrots can also be sown in April, and if you put the seeds in four-inch drills, this will negate the need to thin the seedlings. Amsterdam Forcing are recommended as they are smooth, colourful and bulk up early.

START PLANNING Converting an area populated with mature shrubs is best done over late summer to let the soil start the recovery process in the autumn, and its round about October that weeds should be tackled – but not with quick-fix weed killer!

Home-grown is fast becoming the norm again

It’s best to divide your vegetable patch into areas, reason being they become easier to manage and you won’t trample through the patch when you harvest. Raised beds are popular – particularly with chalk or heavy clay soils – but try to keep the sides low so you don’t put off any slug-munching beetles and amphibians. Building raised beds also preserves soil structure and, if you have room for more than one bed, it will make crop rotation easier and deter diseases and soil-borne pests.

Start small. Don’t dig it all up and discover you’ve taken on more than you can chew

AND REMEMBER…

You’ll only get out what you put in. So, give your veg the best start by making sure the soil is right. A pH test kit will help you get the right balance – neutral soil is best so add lime to acid soil or sulphur to alkaline.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN

MOVING FOR A NEW JOB

PROPERTY NEWS

Whether it be a career change or a promotion, one day you may be required to up-sticks and leave your comfortable surroundings…

ith high-speed internet the world has gotten smaller; however, it may still lead to big changes when it comes to your career. One of these may be a move to a new city or town. This could mean uprooting your family or, if you are single, making new friends. It will also mean you need to find somewhere permanent to call home, with little knowledge of the local area. This is what makes high street estate agents such as us so great compared to online only agents. You can speak to real people, with real knowledge of the local area, including the best schools, shops and transport links. With this in mind, here are some tips when moving for a job…

WHEN TO MOVE?

Who knows the local area better than the people who already live there? Why not check out social media for any groups to make friends with like-minded people, or sports clubs etc, for the children. These can always be great ways to get to know more information about the local area as well as making some new friends.

FINDING THE RIGHT PROPERTY

After you have spent some time in the local area and you know it is a good match, then it’s time to get out looking at properties. Hopefully, loaded with useful information from your local estate agent and your new friends, you will have an idea of If you are moving to whereabouts you our area and would want to buy! like any advice or just

a friendly chat, please simply ask one of our helpful and friendly sales team

Once you have found the perfect property in your new city or town, you will need to decide when to move. There may be a few factors involved in your decision such as start date for your new job, the commute from where you currently live, and the time it takes for the sale/purchase to go through.

BELONGINGS You will need to decide what to do with your belongings. Will you bring a full house load with you straight away, or will you put them into storage? You will also need to check the costs involved in a hire van compared to the costs of putting belongings into storage. Would it be more effective to sell your furniture and start afresh in your new home?

CHECK OUT THE COMMUTE

Before looking for the perfect property, spend some time getting to know the local area

LOCAL GROUPS

Before looking for the perfect property, spend some time getting to know the local area. Find the best routes to work and schools by using Google Maps or tapping into the local knowledge of your new colleagues. The last thing you need is to move somewhere where the commute doesn’t end up being much shorter than if you hadn’t moved – which is more than possible in some big cities.

PRICE OF PROPERTY

Remember prices fluctuate massively throughout the UK, so before getting your heart set on a property, it will be worthwhile investigating the market to see what you can afford in your new area. You can find sold house prices easily enough on Rightmove and this will give you a good idea of what you can afford.

ENJOY THE PROCESS It will always be daunting moving to a new town or city. However, if you are organised and know what you are looking for, there are ways to make it relatively stress-free. Getting to know your surroundings is only the first step; finding a new local pub full of likeminded people or a favourite restaurant early in the process will give you a nice base to move forward.

If you are moving to our area and would like any advice or just a friendly chat, please simply ask one of our helpful and friendly sales team who are more than happy to help.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

NO TIME TO DIE: DANIEL CRAIG’S FINAL MISSION AS 007 Daniel Craig’s fifth and final outing as 007 arrives in April, fourteen years after rebooting the series In 2006 there was outrage when a blonde-haired, blueeyed Daniel Craig stepped onto our screens as the iconic 00 agent James Bond. With No Time to Die confirmed as his fifth and final film, it’s time to look back at the best – and worse bits – of Craig’s time as 007.

BEST: CASINO ROYALE With his debut, Casino Royale, Craig made the role his own expelling the memory of the cheese-laden disaster, Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan. A grittier, darker version of Bond with a stellar supporting cast including Mads Mikkelsen, Eva Green and Judi Dench, Casino Royale was everything a new audience was hoping for and left us wanting more.

WORST: QUANTUM OF SOLACE What could have been a fantastic sequel to Casino Royale fell flat with a forgettable villain, (no, really, try and remember the villain without having to Google it) and a generally uninspiring storyline. Luckily Craig made Bond his own, because other than that, this movie with the confusing title fell flat.

BEST: SKYFALL Luckily Quantum of Solace proved to be a one-off with Bond back to his best in 2012’s

PROPERTY NEWS

Skyfall. Sam Mendes took over directing duties and an all-star supporting cast including Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes and Albert Finney backed up the wonderful chemistry between Craig’s Bond and Dench’s M. Audiences loved it and it was the first Bond film to hit $1 billion dollars worldwide.

WORST BOND GIRLS If anyone thought it couldn’t get much worse than Denise Richards as the ridiculously named Dr. Christmas Jones in Brosnan’s final Bond film, then they were wrong. It wasn’t that Olga Kurylenko wasn’t pretty in Quantum of Solace, it was that – much like the villain – she was utterly forgettable, and Lea Seydoux in Spectre has so little personality and chemistry with Craig, that she simple looks bored on screen.

BEST VILLAINS Mads Mikkelsen, Javier Bardem and Christopher Waltz; three A-list actors with some serious bad guy chops. Mikkelsen was terrifying as Hannibal Lecter on the small screen, Bardem was scary in No Country for Old Men and Waltz’s horrid Colonel Landa in Inglourious Basterds is one of the greatest bad guys ever put onto the silver screen. They were perfect villains for the more grown up Bond movies.

WHO WILL BE THE NEW BOND? Craig’s Bond may have had his ups and downs, but generally he should be pleased with how he has helped to reboot an ailing franchise. Now with a new reboot looming, let’s check out the favourites to take his place… • • • • •

Michael Fassbender Richard Madden Tom Hardy Idris Elba Tom Hiddleston

No Time to Die is released on 3rd April 2020.

DID YOU KNOW? American popstar Billie Eilish has recorded the title song for No Time To Die – making her, at just 18 years old, the youngest artist in history to write and record a Bond theme!

LUSCIOUS ROASTED LAMB

If time is in short supply, make the most of seasonal lamb with this ever-so-easy, lazy roast

GREEK ROAST LAMB Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes Serves: 8 Nutrition: 685kcal per serving

INGREDIENTS 1 large leg of lamb, 3kg/6lb 8oz 6 garlic cloves 1 bunch oregano zest and juice 1 lemon 6 tbsp olive oil 1Â˝ kg new potatoes 400g can chopped tomato large handful pitted baby kalamata olives

METHOD 1. Heat your oven to 240C/fan 220C/gas 9. Pound the garlic, half the oregano, lemon zest and a pinch of salt in a pestle and mortar, then add the lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Stab the lamb all over with a sharp knife, then push as much of the herb paste as you can into the holes. 2. Tip the potatoes into a large roasting tin, then toss in the remaining olive oil and any remaining herb paste. Nestle the lamb amongst the potatoes, roast for 20 mins, then reduce the temperature to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Roast for 1 hr 15 mins for medium-rare, adding another 15 mins if you prefer your lamb medium. Ensure to baste the lamb once or twice with the juices during cooking and toss the potatoes. 3. When the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove from the tin and leave to rest. Throw the rest of the oregano in with the potatoes, scoop from the tin and keep warm. 4. Place the roasting tin over a medium flame, add the canned tomatoes and olives to the pan juices, then simmer for a few mins. Serve the lamb with the potatoes and sauce plus a simple salad.

This recipe, and more, can be found at www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/greek-roast-lamb Image for illustrative purposes only

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Don’t be caught out and about without your fashion essentials!

TAKE COVER…

IT’S WHERE THE MONEY’S AT!

WINDOWPANE CLASSIC UMBRELLA

SOPHIE ALLPORT BEES OILCLOTH PURSE

Made from 100% recycled PET fabric, this large-check patterned umbrella features a bright yellow interior which gives the classic umbrella a modern touch. It’s pricier than others but with combined maple wood shaft and handle, we think it’s worth it. £75 https://londonundercover.co.uk t

BE FASHION READY COLOUR CHANGING UMBRELLA Make walking in the rain fun with this colourchanging umbrella. Features an automatic push button; perfect for little hands! £12 www.kidly.co.uk

Love all things bee with this zipped wallet made from pale green bees matt oilcloth. Featuring a zipped coin section, it’s both waterproof and wipe clean. £25 www.thesquarepegonline.co.uk t

BATMAN EMBOSSED MEN’S WALLET Perfect for any Batman or Marvel fan, this officially licensed bi-fold wallet features a comic strip on its lining and is finished with a decorative metal logo for added authenticity. £18 www.freemans.com t

TOTES SUPERMINI UMBRELLA

CHILDREN’S INITIAL PURSE

The simple design of the Totes Supermini means that you can pop it in your bag with ease, so that you’re armed and ready to shield yourself against the rain, wherever you go. £10 www.johnlewis.com

The velvet and glitter combo of this purse is sure to make your little one feel all grown up – and the addition of their initial will make it even more personal. £12 www.johnlewis.com

PROPERTY NEWS

IT’S IN THE BAG… ACCESSORIZE RETRO RAINBOW CROSS BODY BAG

Kit out the man in your life with this smart and stylish flapover bag from Next. 100% Polyurethane. £28 www.next.co.uk

This bright, cross-body bag is the ideal size to stash the essentials in! Added pizazz comes in the form of faux leather stripes in vibrant colours – and with a touch of glitter! £12 https://uk.accessorize.com

RIVER ISLAND BROWN FLAPOVER BAG

Editor note: you can enjoy 10% off your first purchase when you join their mailing list

KATE SPADE SYLVIA STRIPE SLIM CONTINENTAL WALLET

This stylish classic wallet from Kate Spade has plenty of pockets and compartments to hold your cards and cash. £59 www.katespade.co.uk

WATERMELON MULTICOLOURED BOX CLUTCH HANDBAG Add a splash of colour and fun to your day with this cute novelty watermelon clutch. In a bright red and green finish, it features a detachable gold chain strap, magnetic fastening as well as being fully lined. £19.99 www.bluebanana.com t

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

BETTER

BY SPA Luxury or a modern-day necessity? Spa breaks are becoming the norm to treat mind, body… and your mum!

f your vision of a spa session acceptable – and we can carry that involves a face pack and a slice of feeling of being taken cared for with cucumber over each eye, then we’re us for a period of time. And very often raising a carefully-trimmed eyebrow that can help us cope better in despair. with stress.” Similarly, if it involves waddling Obviously, breaks can No 1 on most spa around in a fluffy come with a bit of a price visitor’s wish-list is a white towelling tag when set against day massage and most robe clutching a sessions, but they are experts agree glass of prosecco, totally different beasts. massages reduce then you’ve been A one-day experience will stress and alleviates watching too normally offer only a muscle tension many reality single treatment whereas docu-soaps on TV. breaks provide the chance to step off life’s Although these are the images that treadmill with a number of carefullyhelp scientists pour scorn on exoticselected elements, giving breathing sounding treatments they offer, there space to totally unwind, relieve aches is one inescapable fact: there’s and pain, improve general physical nothing like a day of pampering to condition through diet and exercise… put you in the right frame of mind to and probably help you get a decent face the world. night’s sleep. The health benefits of visiting a spa cannot be overstated, particularly for mental well-being. Shackled by responsibilities and day-to-day pressures, the first thing that’s sacrificed is ‘me time’, partly because you think it’s self-indulgent but largely because of the cost. But is good physical and mental health really a luxury? Can you put a price on feeling good? As Virginia Sadock, a professor of psychiatry at New York University says: “Going to a spa is a way of being taken care of that is psychologically and culturally

PROPERTY NEWS

BEDFORD LODGE HOTEL & SPA, NEWMARKET Bedford Lodge offers a Mum & Me Spa Day as well as a Mum & Me weekend break where you can let your cares wash away in the sumptuous hydrotherapy facilities with five different water experiences. Includes manicure or pedicure and afternoon tea. bedfordlodgehotelspa.co. uk/special-offers

The health benefits of visiting a spa cannot be overstated, particularly for mental well-being

All of this means that No 1 on most spa visitor’s wish-list is a massage and most experts agree massages reduce stress and alleviates muscle tension, and the benefits are more than skin deep. As Prof Sadock says: “Physical contact is necessary to our well-being, and even if the touching is from a professional there to pamper you, that touch will have a beneficial effect.” Although it is widely believed sitting in a sauna is a great way to cleanse the impurities in the body, what actually pours from the pores is just sweat, not toxins such as alcohol or mercury which are filtered by your liver and kidneys. But they are good for you, increasing circulation as a result of the elevated heart rate and widened blood vessels

that accompany exposure to intense heat. Which brings us to the other staple of the health spa: the face mask. Many charge a premium to slather exotic ingredients on your face. However, dermatologists say the most important thing to remember about a mask is that as long as it actually contains ingredients that would nourish the skin if they were in a moisturiser or balm, they’ll probably have some benefit. So if all that gives you an idea how to treat mum and ensure the person who has given you a lifetime of TLC is pampered herself – or if you feel the need for two or three days of R and R – here are a few suggestions.

BLUE HARBOUR HEALTH CLUB AND SPA, LONDON Their special Ladies’ Day package includes a choice of one 30 minute treatment from a full range of massages or a facial, a Travel Through Time afternoon tea, and full use of the spa facilities. spabreaks.com/venues/blueharbour-health-club-and-spa-at-the-chelseaharbour-hotel

RINGWOOD HALL HOTEL & SPA, CHESTERFIELD Soothe body and mind at The Garden Secret Spa, Derbyshire’s first 5 bubble rated spa. Set in a former 19th Century manor house, you’ll have full access of the facilities in packages ranging from the Vintage Hideway to the Ultimate Odyssey. ringwoodhallhotel.com/gardensecret-spa/

THE GAINSBOROUGH BATH SPA, BATH One of the most popular spas in the country and the only UK hotel with access to naturally heated thermal waters. Just yards from the worldfamous Roman baths, the Gainsborough has a range of spa days with 20 per cent discount for online bookings thegainsboroughbathspa.co. uk/pages/spa-day

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

TEE-TIME

THE US MASTERS 2020 PREVIEW

The 84th US Masters tees off this April with golf superstar Tiger Woods aiming for a record-equalling sixth win

he US Masters is the first of the four major golf tournaments in pro-golf. First played 86 years ago in 1934, unlike other tournaments The Masters is always played at Augusta National Golf Club, Georgia. The tournament is by invitation only and the winner is automatically invited to the other three majors.

Traditions unique to the US masters include the opening tee shot and the Champions Dinner

The Augusta Golf Course was previously a plant nursery and each hole is named after a certain tree or shrub including Tea Olive, Pink Dogwood, Yellow Jasmine, Redbud, Azalea and Chinese Fir amongst others. The idea for the course came from Bobby Jones, a well-known amateur golfer, and was originally designed by Alister Mackenzie, who designed over 50 courses across four continents.

GOLF LINGO Albatross: A score of three less than par Birdie: A score of one less than par Eagle: A score of two under par Bogey: A score of one over par

PROPERTY NEWS

Jack Nicklaus has the most Masters’ wins with six, followed by Tiger Woods with five and Arnold Palmer with four. The estimated prize fund is $11.5 million with nearly $2 million going to the winner, as well as the distinctive and iconic Green Jacket – which by tradition is presented to the current winner by the previous winner. The Masters consists of four rounds of 18 holes each, with the competitors playing in groups of three for the first two rounds. After 36 holes of play, a cut-off score is calculated to reduce the size of the field. To ‘make the cut’, a player must be in either the top 50 places or within 10 strokes of the leader’s score. Over the final two days, a further 36 holes are played; and should there be no winner after the fourth round, all tied players enter a sudden-death playoff beginning on the 18th hole, followed by the 10th and repeating until one player remains. The most recent sudden-death playoff was in 2017 between Justin Rose and Sergio Garcia.

Traditions unique to the US masters include the opening tee shot and the Champions Dinner. A custom since 1963, the tournament is officially started when one or more legendary players tees off from the first hole, and the Champions Dinner is held each year before the tournament starts. The dinner is hosted by the current champion who picks his own menu for the company only of previous champions. Three players are joint favourites moving towards the start of the tournament; World No. 1 Rory Mcllroy, World No. 2 Brooks Koepka and the back-in-form Tiger Woods. If Woods wins, he will match Jack Nicklaus’s record of six US Masters.

YOUR ROLE

AS A LANDLORD If you’re looking at letting out a property, it’s important to understand just what your tenant expects from you as its landlord

THE UTILITIES

The gas, electricity and water companies should be advised whenever the property is empty so that meters can be read and accounts prepared. During ‘void’ periods, the utility services must be transferred back into your name, by you. Of course, the tenant is responsible for the gas, electricity and water/sewerage bills generated by their usage during the tenancy, and for changing the gas and electric accounts into their name when they move in. They’re also responsible for the standing charges. However, their liabilities in this respect clearly finish on the date they vacate the property.

As a landlord, it’s your responsibility to ensure that all electrics and electrical appliances supplied in the property are safe for use

TELEPHONE & COUNCIL TAX

Generally speaking, telephone companies will only deal with the account holder named on the account. You must tell the telephone company that you are leaving the property and advise them what you want to do with your existing number. The tenants are then responsible for arranging any line reconnections and meeting any costs associated with this. When it comes to council tax, this is not your responsibility while the entire property is let. However, if you still reside at the property while acting as a landlord, then you will remain responsible for the Council Tax charge.

PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING

As a landlord, it’s your responsibility to ensure that all electrics and electrical appliances supplied in the property are safe for use. If any portable appliances are going to be left in the property, a portable appliance test should be carried out by a qualified electrician on an annual basis.

GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATE

It’s your duty as landlord to ensure that all gas supplied appliances are maintained in a safe condition and are inspected at least every 12 months by a GAS SAFE engineer. A Gas Safety certificate should only be issued by a GAS SAFE engineer.

SMOKE ALARMS

The law requires landlords to install working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their properties. This includes smoke alarms being fitted in all hallway, stairway, and circulation areas that form escape routes from the property. They should be located every 7.5 metres of hallway, and within at least three metres of all bedroom doors. Properties where HMO licenses apply, a higher specification of smoke alarm installation may be required which is generally mains powered. Landlords are directly responsible for determining whether their properties are eligible for HMO status, and failure to adhere to the regulations may result in a civil penalty and render your insurance invalid.

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Superb NEW 5 bedroom home with stunning views! ÂŁ1,275,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a BRAND NEW EXECUTIVE 5 BEDROOM detached family house with STUNNING VIEWS to both the front and rear over fields and farmland in a NON ESTATE LOCATION on the North West side of Chelmsford. The property offers extensive adaptable accommodation spread over three levels and has approx 2600 square feet of accommodation to the property itself with a further 1100 square feet of space to the garage and ROOM ABOVE! It has an EXCELLENT INTERNAL SPECIFICATION AND FINISH and can only be fully appreciated by an internal viewing, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Ideal for the commuting buyer! ÂŁ295,000

A stunning two bedroom first floor apartment converted from a grade II listed building and being one of only six homes in the conversion. A sharp modern interior contrasts with decorative fireplaces and sash windows. City centre location close to the mainline station and central bus station with the advantage of allocated and secure covered parking.

info@adrians-property.co.uk

Sales: 01245 265 303 Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Village property with main house PLUS an attached annexe ÂŁ650,000

Situated in the popular village of Great Waltham on the outskirts of Chelmsford is this vastly improved semi detached property which offers diverse accommodation, the property is currently divided in to a main residence and a separate annexe but overall offers five well proportioned bedrooms, three reception rooms, two good size Kitchens, off street parking for several vehicles, double garage and unoverlooked pleasant greensward. Great Waltham is located on the North side of Chelmsford and offers popular eateries, excellent countryside walks and village life.

Stunning 2 bedroom first floor apartment in Great Leighs ÂŁ215,000

This stunning two bedroom first floor apartment has been very tastefully modernised by its current owners and now provides very comfortable accommodation throughout, with in our opinion an incredible sense of space and light via high ceilings and sash style windows. In addition there is direct access to your own loft providing ample storage, whilst externally there are well kept communal gardens and allocated parking. Great Leighs itself offers plenty of open green space yet sits within comfortable distance of both Chelmsford and Braintree Centres and of course the A120. Viewing is strongly advised.

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Considerably improved & extended 4 bed house on Newlands Spring ÂŁ475,000

An EXTREMELY WELL PRESENTED, CONSIDERABLY IMPROVED four bedroom detached family house situated in a small turning of just a handful of other properties on the favoured Newlands Spring development on the North West side of the City Centre. The current sellers have spent considerable time and money improving the property to its current standard and it now benefits from a refitted cloakroom, a replacement oak turning staircase, excellent refitted rear kitchen / dining room, refitted utility room and the family bathroom has also been refitted. There is an attached garage, a South Westerly facing garden.

2 bedroom GROUND FLOOR maisonette with garden & garage! ÂŁ230,000

Situated within close proximity of Chelmsford City Centre and railway Station is this GROUND FLOOR two bedroom maisonette. The property has the added benefit of off street parking for three cars with the addition of a DETACHED GARAGE, REAR GARDEN and a LONG LEASE.

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Sales: 01245 265 303 Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

EXTENDED semi in Galleywood with adaptable accommodation Guide Price £600,000 - £615,000

This large established semi detached property offers excellent adaptable accommodation which benefits from double storey EXTENSIONS to the side and rear plus a further single story EXTENSION at the rear as well as a GARAGE CONVERSION. It is situated in the favoured village of Galleywood on the South side of Chelmsford with local amenities and Galleywood Common close by. Chelmsford City Centre and station are within easy driving distance and an internal viewing is ESSENTIAL to appreciate all that this property has to offer. It also offers the potential to create “annexe” type accommodation using the current ground floor rooms.

Superb COACH HOUSE with BALCONY & two parking spaces £262,500

A stunning and spacious two bedroom and two reception coach house which has two covered allocated car port spaces, in addition to a balcony accessed via French doors from the dining room. Presented to a high decorative standard and convenient for both access to the A12 and Chelmsford City Centre

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An EXTENDED 4 bedroom semi with improved accommodation! Guide Price ÂŁ395,000

Laying to the West of Chelmsford City Centre and within just a short distance of local amenities and schooling is this extended four bedroom semi detached family home. Internally the property provides a spacious and inviting reception hall which in turn leads to a sitting room with log burner. A refitted kitchen/dining room lays adjacent to a utility area, ground floor w.c and a further reception room of multiple use. The mid floor offers three bedrooms and modern family four piece bathroom whilst on the top floor is a master bedroom suite. Externally the property offers a good size rear garden, to the front is off street parking for a number of vehicles.

Much improved 3 bedroom house in favoured Village location! ÂŁ345,000

Situated in the village of Great Waltham on the North side of Chelmsford is this much improved three bedroom family property on the Model Village Development. The property has been extended to the ground floor to provide a good size entrance hall. The property has a garage, off street parking and backs onto pleasant greensward along with countryside walks in the village area.

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Sales: 01245 265 303 Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Much improved & extended house on Chancellor Park ÂŁ425,000

Large EXTENDED 4 bedroom detached house for improvement ÂŁ365,000

This much improved three bedroom family property is situated on the popular Chancellor Park development. The current Vendor has had the property extended to the ground floor to provide a good size lounge with working log burner and a useful extended kitchen/utility area. To the first floor there are three bedrooms with en-suite to the Master and a modern re-fitted white bathroom suite. To the side of the property there is a car port which leads to a single detached garage.

A four bedroom detached property extended to the ground floor located in the popular village of Boreham, extremely close to local shops and with good vehicular access to the A12. The property does require some modernisation and is offered with no onward chain. Two generous receptions to the ground floor plus ground floor cloakroom and large kitchen breakfast room, four bedrooms to the first floor served by family shower room.

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BALMORAL COURT, off Springfield Road ÂŁ145,000

A one bedroom second floor retirement apartment benefitting from a re-fitted shower room and modern re-fitted kitchen, pleasant neutral decoration, ready to move into with vacant possession, convenient City centre location with many local facilities including mainline Station, river walks, Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre and nearby major supermarket. NEW LEASE GRANTED.

MACMILLAN COURT, Old Moulsham ÂŁ150,000

A superb one bedroom top floor apartment recently having undergone updating to include a new refitted shower room, new carpets throughout and decoration, offered with immediate vacant possession with no onward chain. MacMillan Court is situated just off Moulsham Street on the fringe of the City Centre within minutes walking distance of shops and High Street, the complex is for males aged 65 or over and females aged 60 or over.

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Retirement Properties

Sales: 01245 265 303|Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

GLADSTONE COURT, Old Moulsham £199,500

A rare opportunity to buy a one bedroom RETIREMENT COTTAGE in this small exclusive “courtyard complex” in the highly favoured Old Moulsham Area, right in the centre of Chelmsford. The accommodation is very well presented throughout, has been improved and comprises two separate reception rooms, a refitted ground floor shower room, kitchen, and on the first floor there is large bedroom and bathroom. There is a fitted stair lift which is to be included and Gladstone Court is linked to MacMillan Court in Grove Road and hence a buyer has the usage of those facilities and amenities also.

CHANCELLOR COURT, off Broomfield Road £220,000

One bedroom first floor retirement apartment in this popular block close to the City centre with southerly facing windows, juliet balcony and views over the Grammar School sports field. There are most pleasant landscaped gardens and a private car park. The complex has its own House Manager with 24 hour Careline system backup

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TYRELL LODGE, off Springfield Road ÂŁ220,000

This Churchill second floor retirement apartment is located within the popular Tyrell Lodge development which is situated in the heart of Chelmsford City centre. The complex comprises of a communal lounge, laundry facilities and kitchen area, along with communal grounds and parking. This apartment has been recently redecorated to a high standard throughout including freshly painted walls, ceilings and doors etc as well as newly fitted carpets. The property is being offered for sale with no onward chain!

ALBION COURT, Old Moulsham Guide Price ÂŁ 225,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a UNIQUE 2 BEDROOM GROUND FLOOR RETIREMENT APARTMENT being part of an original Regency style villa in the highly favoured and convenient Old Moulsham area of Chelmsford. The apartment really MUST be internally viewed to be fully appreciated!

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Retirement Properties

Sales: 01245 265 303|Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

BALMORAL COURT, off Springfield Road ÂŁ225,000

A rarely available TWO BEDROOM GROUND FLOOR RETIREMENT APARTMENT in this most conveniently situated complex just off Springfield Road being convenient for the City Centre and having a Tesco superstore a few hundred yards away. The retirement apartment has electric heating and the benefit of replacement PVCU double glazed windows which we understand are still under guarantee. This apartment is offered for sale with no onward chain and is well worth an internal viewing.

SPALDING COURT, off Cedar Avenue ÂŁ225,000

This SUPERB SIZE two bedroom top floor retirement apartment is ONE OF THE LARGEST in the complex, conveniently located in Spalding Court off of Cedar Avenue on the fringe of the City centre. It comprises a long hallway, excellent sized lounge off which is the fitted kitchen, there is a shower room, and two superb sized bedrooms - one of which is almost 17ft long, and the other measuring approximately 21ft long and having a further useful room leading off of it. It does offer truly spacious accommodation not normally found with retirement apartments and hence must be internally viewed to be fully appreciated!

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Nigel Jessup M.N.A.E.A | DIRECTOR Nigel started his agency career in 1986 working for a corporate company in Billericay and after some years’ experience joined a large independent agent in 1993 as a senior negotiator. He was soon promoted to Branch Manager successfully running a large office in Chelmsford until 2013. In 2013, having previously worked together in the same office, he teamed up with his now co director Ray Cline and acquired Adrians from the retiring partners.

“Adrians have a reputation built on trust and recommendation and my goal is to continue the traditional core values of good honest estate agency coupled with new technology and a modern approach.”

Ray Cline M.N.A.E.A | DIRECTOR Ray has been in estate agency for over 30 years, starting his career with a large corporate estate agent. 2013 presented the opportunity to apply all his experience to running his own agency when the previous owners of Adrians retired.

“I have for over 10 years been on the Essex Branch Committee for the National Association of Estate Agents which is our governing body. Choosing the right agent is an important decision; you need to be sure it’s an agent that will conduct their day to day business in a trustworthy, professional manner. The Adrians history and reputation is something we are proud of and will continue to protect and develop.”

Gary Ketley | BRANCH MANAGER Gary has been at Adrians in Chelmsford for 35 years and has had the pleasure of helping people with their move two or three times over, as they have moved home to suit their different needs. This lengthy time working and living locally provides an exceptional knowledge of the area which qualifies Gary to give accurate and in depth advice to sellers and potential buyers. “I am a calm and friendly person driven by my attention to detail in both the contact with my clients and the presentation of our property details - good photography is essential both for the brochure and internet portals. I treat people the way I would like to be treated myself and I am proud of Adrians’ reputation.”

Daniel Speak | SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT Daniel’s agency career started back in 1996, initially with a local corporate agent. However, he chose to move swiftly into independent agency where he rose through the ranks to management, and finally associate Director level. Now with over 20 years in the industry, Daniel not only has great knowledge of the local areas but also the experience needed to help guide clients with their move.

“I am just as excited about the industry now, as I was when I first started back in the mid 90’s. The need for an educated and approachable estate agent that can guide buyers and sellers through the process is more evident now than ever, and I feel that at Adrians, we are perfectly placed to do so.”

Jodie Truong | BRANCH ADMINISTRATOR Jodie has worked within the estate agency industry for 5 years working as a regional administrator alongside large corporate companies. However, she is not only admin based and will often be found on the phone to tenants and buyers helping them find their new home. Her aim is to always provide the highest levels of customer service and to exceed clients expectations.

info@adrians-property.co.uk

Sales: 01245 265 303 Lettings: 01245 265 621 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Katherine Gardner | SALES CONSULTANT Katherine has over 10 years’ experience within customer service. A very self-motivated and independent performer, able to serve as a communication liaison between different parties of professionals, so the flow of information and stages occur in a timely matter on behalf of the customer.

Tonya Barnard | LETTINGS MANAGER Tonya has over 10 years experience in all areas of lettings and property management. Tonya is ARLA qualified holding an NFOPP Level 3 Award in Residential Letting and Property Management and is an associate member of ARLA. Running her own successful property management company for the past 6 years Tonya has now joined the Adrians Teams to run our in-house lettings department.

“I believe in traditional property management and creating long lasting relationships of trust with our clients, myself and my team look after every property as if it were our own”

Charlotte Kyle | LETTINGS CONSULTANT Charlotte joined Adrians in September 2017 and brings with her 5 years Lettings and Property Management experience. She is also responsible for the inventories, property visits and check outs and has a detailed knowledge of the lettings process. Her main focus is to always provide both landlord and tenant with the highest level of customer care possible.

Jess Garty | SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT Jess joined Adrians in May 2019, adding her strong customer service experience and positive attitude to the Lettings Team. Along with her customer service experience Jess also has experience in property letting and management with her own properties that she has looked after for the past several years. Being self-motivated and confident when working with the public makes Jess a great fit ensuring our clients receive the best service when renting a property from us. I’m very excited to learn the industry alongside such an amazing team and further my career here with Adrians.

Ailish Tucker | LETTINGS CONSULTANT Ailish left the media industry in 2015 and since then has been working in property, mainly within lettings and property management. Prior to joining Adrians, she was with a large corporate group where she was responsible for the management of a variety of properties across Essex dealing with all aspects of the tenancies; from the pre-tenancy work through to the deposit negotiations and release. She has always worked in customer focused environments and strongly believes in ensuring an exceptional level of customer service at all times.

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Sales: 01245 265 303 Lettings: 01245 265 621 Email: info@adrians-property.co.uk