2 Multi award-winning property experts Sales • Lettings • Property Management • Acquisitions • Land • Development • Investment
3 A warm welcome to Charles Bainbridge: Multi award-winning property experts. As you may have already experienced we are a friendly and approachable firm with credibility and substance. Our lively and distinctive branding gives an indication of our sense of energy and enthusiasm whilst our comprehensive knowledge of the region and the market in your area give us the strongest possible position from which to offer advice on all aspects of the property market. Our firm is built on effective communication, strong client relationships, superb presentation and innovative marketing, all of which are underpinned by exceptional estate agency expertise. It’s a powerful combination that’s proved both refreshing and very effective. In our guide to moving home you will not only find details about us and our services but there is useful advice, information and suggestions on many aspects of moving house that are often overlooked - what does the legal process involve? How do we manage the pets….and the children! What should we look for when appointing our estate agent, we’ve got it all covered and more. Within our guide you will also find a wide range of useful professional services and products from firms we can wholly recommend and we use them ourselves! We are very proud of our company and take great pride in every aspect of our work. I am delighted to say that a significant proportion of our business comes from recommendations... ...so don’t take our word for it, here’s what some of our recent clients have said... “...I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for the very smooth and efficient sale of my property. I am so pleased with how the sale went and so quickly. I will have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Charles Bainbridge - it was a pleasure to deal with straightforward, professional but friendly people. An excellent result all round!” - Littlebourne “...Excellent experience all round, would not hesitate to recommend you to friends…” - Wingham “...Polite, courteous service. Extremely helpful and we were even met at the property on completion and presented with the keys, very unusual in my experience…” - Seasalter “...I am very grateful for the way you dealt with the sale of our property. I will definitely be using your services in the future…” - Bekesbourne “...Thanks again for all your help - I don’t think we could have asked for a better tenant…” - Adisham “...I just wanted to say a huge thank you for providing such a brilliant service in the selling of my Mother’s house, you kept us up to date with everything and went above and beyond the remit in helping sort the house clearance etc..” - Canterbury “...I’d like to add that we found all of our dealings with Charles Bainbridge and all at the company to be excellent, we found you professional and pleasurable to deal with, something some of your colleagues in the industry could learn from. Keep up the good work.” “...Fantastic, faultless service from start to finish. Brilliant communication throughout the whole process. Many thanks. - Canterbury 1 The Bakery, 47 Broad Street, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2LS 01227 780227 | sales@charlesbainbridge.com | lettings@charlesbainbridge.com | charlesbainbridge.com
1 Charlie Bainbridge MNAEA Charlie launched the business in the Summer of 2014 and the Firm’s success was immediate having since seen exceptional growth across all sectors and disciplines. Having grown up in Canterbury, Charlie went to St. Edmund’s School and has an unrivalled affinity with, and knowledge of, the City and surrounding area. Charlie’s career in Estate Agency started in the early 1990’s and in 2000 he joined a highly regarded regional Firm where he became a Partner and has since forged an enviable reputation as one of the leading Agents in the region winning a host of awards along the way. Charlie oversees the operations of the Firm and with his wealth of experience is perfectly placed to offer expert advice on all aspects of property sales, lettings and management, valuation, marketing, method of sale, acquisitions and investment. Zoë Lawton-Barrett Max Rushton Adele Weir Paul Willmott Faye Hardy Andrea Dann Christine, Hayley and Bridget We are a friendly and approachable crowd delivering quality estate agency, lettings and management services with energy, integrity, passion and flair.
2 Charlie says... thoughts on Contemporary Agency and what to look out for…. Contemporary agency utilises cutting edge software, highly developed websites, powerful portals with endless functionality, mobile apps, email and text alerts, virtual tours, land registry data analysis - the list goes on. Every conceivable technological advancement has been applied to the industry. Many such developments are very convenient and create instant gratification for prospective buyers and tenants. For agents technological features can create individual USP’s and distinction and no doubt the race for the next gizmo will go on and on ad infinitum. However, surprisingly, it hasn’t actually changed the way houses are marketed, bought and sold. Yes it has sped up some of the marketing elements and added huge convenience, any agent worth their salt will of course embrace that, but no fundamental change has occurred. The reality is the process hasn’t really changed for hundreds of years, in brief; an owner obtains the advice from local estate agents and subsequently chooses the one they feel most comfortable with. The agent then promotes the property to potential buyers, arranges viewings, negotiates offers and sees the sale through to completion. This is how houses were bought and sold in Dickensian times. So even with this astonishing array of technology no change has actually been made to the underlying process. Another interesting observation is the development of cyber agents. Some web based agents have multi-million pound TV and media advertising campaigns or the backing of celebrity personalities, luxuries well beyond even the most successful regional agent. Combined with this profile they charge a fraction of the price of much of the competition. So given this seemingly powerful combination of massive national publicity and undercutting prices, they should surely have complete dominance and majority market share in all of their operating areas….however they don’t. Their impact has been generally insignificant. So what is the correlation between these observations, to recap: All the technology in the world hasn’t actually changed any of the principle functions of the estate agent and web based agency with monumental advertising budgets, combined with the lowest fees available, has had little impact.
3 What is missing is the people, technology is great, but is no replacement for a good working relationship with an effective and knowledgeable agent. The concept of a cheap web based service is wonderful, but in reality most sellers prefer to pay a fair fee for quality advice, appropriate guidance and to have a reliable and effective agent oversee and manage the whole process for them. The relationship with automated services and computer based tick boxes is short lived. The client’s choice therefore is usually about the people they would like to work with rather than bargain fees or the latest techno wizardry. We can of course list all the wonderful things we offer our clients and the list would be extensive with fabulous photos, individual brochures, advertising on this portal and in that paper but clients are not paying for those things – they are the tools of our trade, and by now you probably get the idea we use quality tools! You don’t pay the artist for his brush, the sculptor for his chisel or the carpenter for his saw, you pay these craftsmen for the skill they have in using these tools to produce something of value …..you get the idea. So whether you are selling or letting, when choosing your agent don’t get too caught up in the whole “whose got most tools” debate – let the agent use the appropriate tools for the job, they know what works best... ...but make your choice on the people with whom you feel most comfortable and most confident in – it’s that relationship that will be the critical factor in how effectively and smoothly your move progresses.
4 www.jamesclague.co.uk James Clague Architects (JCA) is a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Canterbury’s city centre serving clients across Kent.The practice specialises in the extension, conversion and alteration of residential properties and are particularly expert in working with period buildings and buildings within Conservation Areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Whether working on a private home or developing a property for commercial purposes, they enhance the life of a building and its occupants by sensitively introducing modern design and technologies whilst respecting a buildings history and traditional construction. JCA thrive on working in partnership with clients to ensure they deliver the best possible service and building outcome. CREATIVE DESIGN FOR 21ST CENTURY LIVING Extensions | Refurbishments | New Builds | Conversions • Feasibility Studies • Planning and Listed Building Applications • Building Regulation Applications, Specifications and Tendering • Contract Administration and Site Supervision The practice offer full architectural services including: JCA passionately believe in protecting and enhancing the buildings in which we live and the lives of the local community. If you are interested in speaking with them, they offer a free initial consultation.
5 Tel: 01227 649073 | 40/41 Castle Row, Canterbury, CT1 2QY | info@jamesclague.co.uk Designing and managing your building project from concept to completion Have you recently moved home and are considering building an extension or making other improvements to create your dream home; or are you thinking of buying a particular property and would like to explore its potential before committing to the purchase? As a team of architects and technologists JCA are experts in delivering high quality residential projects across the South East. They have extensive experience working with Planning Authorities across Kent and are proud of the relationships they have with the best local consultants, contractors and sub-contractors. Whatever your building project, James Clague Architects are very approachable and would be delighted to discuss your vision and answer any questions you may have. “ James was very much in tune with our plans for the property and offered both creative and practical solutions. - Residential Client - “
6 The Faversham Brewery is home to Shepherd Neame, Britain’s Oldest Brewer. Nestled in the medieval market town of Faversham in Kent, brewing has continued on this site for centuries. Using natural ingredients, such as mineral water from the town’s aquifer and local hops, their brewers produce Kentish ales bursting with character and renowned international lagers. Their brewers blend art and science to produce award-winning beer they want you to enjoy time and time again. The Faversham Brewery Shepherd Neame is an English independent brewery founded in 1698 in Faversham, Kent, and family-owned since 1864. The brewery produces a range of cask ales and filtered beers. Production is around 200,000 brewers’ barrels a year. It owns 295 pubs and hotels, predominantly in Kent, London and South East England. The company exports to more than 35 countries including India, Sweden, Italy, Brazil and Canada. Brewing has taken place on the site of the Faversham Brewery for more than 400 years. In 1864, Percy Beale Neame joined the then Shepherd & Mares brewery and when John Henry Mares died two months later, Shepherd Neame & Company was born. From then on, Shepherd Neame has continued to provide the country with quality Kentish ales for the enjoyment of all. Master Brewers Since 1698
7 Their award-winning guided tour takes visitors around the Faversham Brewery site to learn about the ancient art of brewing. See brewing and fermentation vessels; taste natural mineral water from the brewery’s well; try some malted barley and smell locally-grown Kentish hops. The 80 minute tour also includes a visit to the Old Brewery Store, housed in the old wines and spirits store, which features impressive displays of historic delivery vehicles, a recreated coopers’ workshop, bygone pub signs and a collection of hop picking memorabilia. It ends back in the Visitor Centre with a tutored tasting of Shepherd Neame’s Kentish ales and speciality lagers, before visitors have the chance to visit the Brewery Shop and pick up a souvenir, gift or some of their favourite beer. Perhaps best known for great British classic ales such as Spitfire Amber, which carries the Royal Warrant, its diverse portfolio also includes Five Grain Lager, the Bear Island Collection and the Whitstable Bay Collection. It also brews international lagers under licence including premium Thai lager Singha and Samuel Adams Boston Lager, and is the sole UK distributor for Truly hard seltzer. Brewery Tours Discover Their Beers 17 Court Street, Faversham, Kent, ME13 7AX Tel: 01795 532 206 Mobile: 07711 773 306 Email: ghilton@shepherdneame.co.uk www.shepherdneame.co.uk
8 Tel: 01227 595501 | Email: info@kings-school.co.uk | www.kings-school.co.uk Charity number: 307942 With origins dating back to 597AD, The King’s School is reputedly the oldest school in the world. It is also one of the country’s leading co-educational boarding schools, for pupils aged 13-18, located in the idyllic surroundings of the Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral, under one hour from Central London. The School has a strong academic curriculum that is continually adapting to encompass the ever changing demands of modern education. With almost all pupils going on to further education at leading universities in the UK and abroad, there is an emphasis on scholarly excellence. Through regular monitoring of academic progress, the school’s aim is to enable every individual to make the most of their abilities and to fulfil their potential. Equal to that pursuit of academic excellence, the school believes that much of what is most valuable in education takes place outside the classroom. The wide-ranging cocurricular programme has been developed to provide opportunities for all pupils to discover their passions and encourage them to develop these talents as best as possible. Art, Drama, Music and Sport play a large role in school life, alongside the Combined Cadet Force, the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and numerous other activities to suit all tastes. King’s Week, the School’s own festival of arts at the end of the summer term, involves hundreds of pupils in a showcase of creativity ending each academic year on a fitting note of achievement and enjoyment. Headmaster Peter Roberts comments: “At the heart of a King’s education is the dual pursuit of academic and extra-curricular excellence. The self-discipline, intellect and wide-ranging interests that such a pursuit engenders are highly prized in our modern global society. The quality of the teaching and the breadth of the activities outside the classroom mean that the lessons learnt and the skills acquired stay with the pupils for life.” The main school site is situated in a UNESCO world heritage site, providing a beautiful and inspiring backdrop to what has been described as ‘a university for young people’. Find out more at www.kings-school.co.uk A 21st Century education at the UK’s most historic school
9 Tel: 01227 714000 | Email: office@junior-kings.co.uk | www.junior-kings.co.uk Charity number: 307942 Junior King’s is a co-educational day and boarding school set in a stunning eighty-acre countryside location just two miles from the city of Canterbury and only 50 minutes from St Pancras Station, London. The school caters for children aged 3-13 years with most pupils going on to the prestigious King’s School, Canterbury. A historic school, founded in 1879, but one that is never stuck in history, Junior King’s stands out as a place bursting with energy, dynamism and a real enjoyment of learning. The children are at the heart of everything the school does and there is a belief that with a positive and creative approach comes happy, engaged children. Junior King’s prides itself in its excellent pastoral care. Academic results take care of themselves when children are well looked after, feel safe, and have the time to reflect on what they have done during the day. The school wants children to experience success, a real love of what they do, and a heightened sense of self-esteem and modest confidence. The school is constantly looking for new opportunities to give the children a chance to discover their particular talents and to flourish. The children do so well, and go so far, precisely because the first goal is their happiness, which is achieved by finding something each child is really good at. That is then nurtured in an environment where independence, the ability to exercise choice and to engage in self-evaluation and reflection are paramount. There is an aim to evolve the curriculum with the times and think of new ways to foster important life skills such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity that will allow the children to excel in a future we can only imagine. The extra-curricular enrichment programme offers pupils a range of opportunities to develop their interests in different areas, and includes fencing, dance, rowing, sailing, horse riding, debating, current affairs and chess. To find out more please visit www.junior-kings.co.uk Open Days are held in May and October when you are more than welcome to explore the opportunities at Junior King’s for your son or daughter. A traditional prep school that brings out strengths, both academic and creative
10 The Canterbury Auction Galleries is Kent’s premier Saleroom for Fine Art and Antiques, operating from premises built in 1911, thought to be the first purpose-designed saleroom outside London.There is nothing old fashioned about the way the firm operates, though.Today, its two-day weekend auctions attract a worldwide audience, thanks to live Internet bidding, putting us on a level footing with London houses, but without the costs associated with selling in the capital. Managing Director David Parker (Jewellery and Militaria) who together with his colleagues, Director Cliona Kilroy (Silver and Fine Art) and Specialist Justin Ball (Ceramics and Glass) with Consultant, the well-known James Linington, offer vendors the benefit of more than 150 years combined Professionalism and expertise, combined with local knowledge, makes the level of service offered by The Canterbury Auction Galleries unassailable. A free saleroom valuation service is offered every Friday by appointment, which continues to uncover rare and valuable objects. People are invited to bring objects to the saleroom for identification and appraisal, a service that is given freely and without obligation. Advice is given on the suitability of objects for sale and the entire auction process explained to anyone uncertain about how it works. Additionally, the company provides a full Professional valuation service for Insurance, Probate and Sale purposes, which is carried out in clients’ homes by our fully experienced and qualified staff.Whether you have a house full of furniture and works of art or a lifetime collection of Chinese ceramics, they are confident they can obtain the best prices possible. The Canterbury Auction Galleries present six two-day and three day auctions every year held over the weekend, each accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue giving a full description of the objects in the sale. Sales generally run about 1200 to 1500 lots, covering every imaginable antiques and collectors’ items from silver, jewellery, paintings, antique and contemporary designer furniture, clocks to even wine and sporting guns. 1. Doulton Lambeth salt glazed stoneware figure of a seated brown bear, 29.5ins high, discovered hidden in a garden in Hythe Sold to a Yorkshire collector for £8,000 2. Rare Chinese archaic bronze tripod vessel or “Tiger Ying”, 10.25ins high (1100-771 BC) Sold for an Auction House record at £410,000 The Canterbury Auction Galleries also organised the donation from the Chinese buyer to the National Museum of China, Beijing. In addition to real time internet bidding through its own bespoke bid platform thegalleries.live, which was developed in house and is free to use, buyers also view the sales in person from throughout the UK and Europe, the auctions themselves are online only but bids can be made by commission and by live telephone bidding. For the newcomer, staff can assist in the buying process and give impartial advice on the suitability of pieces on offer. To learn more about The Canterbury Auction Galleries, visit the website or call in to view one of the sales.The current sale calendar and a complimentary copy of one of their catalogues is available to the clients of Charles Bainbridge. Please contact Sharon Parker on 01227 7633337 or email sharon@tcag.co.uk. It costs nothing to look and who knows what you may discover… YOUR LOCAL AUCTION HOUSE WITH AN INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION 40 Station Road West Canterbury, CT2 8AN Canterbury (01227) 763337 general@tcag.co.uk thecanterburyauctiongalleries.com THE COUNTY’S LEADING AUCTIONEERS &VALUERS OF FINE ART, ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS’ ITEMS
11 1. Doulton Lambeth salt glazed stoneware figure of a seated brown bear, 29.5ins high, - discovered hidden in a garden in Hythe Sold to a Yorkshire collector for £8,000 2. Rare Chinese archaic bronze tripod vessel or “Tiger Ying”, 10.25ins high (1100-771 BC) Sold for an Auction House record at £410,000 The Canterbury Auction Galleries also organised the donation from the Chinese buyer to the National Museum of China, Beijing. 5. Lalique blue opalescent and frosted glass vase of “Ceylan” pattern, 9.5ins high Sold to a London collector for £3,000 6. Early 19th Century Paris (Dihl) porcelain plaque – Portrait of the Empress Josephine, after Ferdinand Paul Louis Quaila (1780-1853), 8.5ins x 5.5ins Sold to a Continental buyer for £7,200 7. 1980’s Rolex “Sea Dweller” stainless steel cased Divers wristwatch Sold to a local collector for £9,500 3. Pair of George I “Irish” cast silver sauce boats by Matthew Walker, Dublin, 1726 - discovered hidden in the back of a kitchen cupboard in a house in Dover Sold to an International specialist for £57,000 4. 18ct white gold mounted solitaire diamond ring (weight 4.91ct – with full gemmological certification) Sold to a private buyer for £24,000 5 1 2 3 4 6 7
12 Knowing you. Providing a full range of taxation, accountancy, business advisory and financial services to private individuals and families, dynamic businesses and not for profit organisations. Helping you make confident decisions about the future. For all your business, tax and wealth needs. Call: +44 (0)330 124 1399 Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com
13 Effective planning and an understanding of the main rules and reliefs surrounding property tax is key to help safeguard the value you are trying to secure or protect. When you are buying a property, Kreston Reeves can help advise on the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) cost associated with the purchase including any reliefs that might be available to minimise your liability. Looking at the right ownership structure from the outset is also important to ensure you minimise your tax liabilities more generally across the lifecycle of your investment. If you are selling a property, the tax implications may be straightforward if it is your home. But there are special rules around capital gains tax (CGT) when selling investment property or a house you have not always lived in. It is important to get advice early on as from 6 April 2020 any CGT payable on residential property disposals needs to be paid within 30 days of completion. And what about investment property that you are letting? Here the rules are more complex, particularly if you plan to undertake renovation or alterations or have debt on the property. Kreston Reeves can help you understand the tax, deductions and exemptions available to you. Kreston Reeves are here to support you with all this and so much more, whether it is personal tax planning, inheritance tax planning, the right structure in which to own and invest in property, they are here to help. Kreston Reeves have a specialist property team to assist you with your enquiries and the complexities of the property tax rules. As a leading accountancy and financial services firm located across London and the South East of England, Kreston Reeves provide a full range of accountancy, business advisory and financial services that help UK and international clients achieve their personal and business goals, with peace of mind. Services include: •Stamp duty land tax planning •Tax planning and compliance •Tax planning on property vehicle structuring •Overseas ownership of UK property •Bookkeeping and accounts preparation •VAT compliance and advice •Compliance with Making Tax Digital •Service charge accounts and audit services •Capital allowances planning Whether you are buying, selling or letting property, there are taxes to consider. For more information please contact Jennifer Williamson, Partner at Kreston Reeves by email at jennifer.williamson@krestonreeves.com Buying, selling or letting?
14 YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN LAW
15 Boys & Maughan has been consistently praised for providing an excellent conveyancing service to their clients. They are a progressive firm of solicitors, which has been building lasting relationships with clients and providing them with first class advice for over two centuries. Boys & Maughan has local offices in Canterbury, Birchington, Broadstairs, Margate, and Ramsgate. They are the largest specialist conveyancing solicitors in East Kent, with 75 residential property specialist lawyers and staff. One of their specific benefits is a dedicated pre-sale advisory service, which gives clients a single point of contact for any queries about the conveyancing process and helps them complete their instruction pack. Boys & Maughan was one of the first four solicitors firms in the country to achieve the standards set by the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme. Since then, they have received the award every year in recognition of their advice, integrity and reliability. Their goal is not only to meet the needs of their clients on a one-off basis but also to encourage clients to return to them whenever they need specialist legal advice. Boys & Maughan Solicitors has a dedicated team of professionals able to offer specialist advice across a broad range of legal issues. Their core business is providing legal services to people from all over Kent. Over the years, many clients have been personally recommended to them after their solicitors have assisted friends and family. Margate India House, Hawley Street, CT9 1PZ 01843 234 000 Birchington 83 Station Road, CT7 9RB 01843 842 356 Broadstairs 99 High Street, CT10 1NQ 01843 868 861 Canterbury 32 St George’s Place, CT1 1UT 01227 207 000 2 Castle Street, CT1 2QH 01227 813 400 Ramsgate 57 Queen Street, CT11 9EJ 01843 595 990 Email: movehome@boysandmaughan.co.uk www.boysandmaughan.co.uk WELCOME TO BOYS AND MAUGHAN Boys & Maughan are proud members of ReviewSolicitors, the UK’s leading website for independent solicitor reviews and client ratings. They have an excellent reputation on the platform and people from far and wide have instructed the firm after reading their reviews, which you can read on the home page of their website. In addition to their position as the leading local conveyancing practice, Boys & Maughan offers extensive experience on a wide variety of legal matters including commercial property, landlord & tenant, divorce and family law, disputes & litigation, personal injury, wills & probate, and employment law. The house buying and selling process can be a minefield and there are a host of different processes which must be covered. Boys & Maughan will keep you informed of each step and make sure that you understand what is happening. Working closely with a leading local solicitor’s practice frequently enables a partnership which benefits clients.
16 SIMPLY THE BEST FINANCIAL ADVICE The M Solution is a Kent based Financial Advice practice that offers face to face advice to help you with your mortgage, protection, investment and pension needs. With over 25 years of combined experience, they are proud to always give their clients the best advice. The business believes that everyone is an individual and that all of their customers need individual advice and financial solutions. It is very easy to get confused by all the different types of mortgages that are available and your own Bank or Building Society will, of course, only show you the details of a restricted number of loans that they offer. Because The M Solution have access to the entire market place, they have the ability to look at all the offers available and choose the one which best suits your circumstances. They are there to help and advise on all aspects of finance, so whatever your needs, it would be sensible to contact The M Solution and give them a chance to prove their worth. Your home may be at risk if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loans secured on it.
17 2 Stonar Gardens, Sandwich, CT13 9LJ Graeme Hood Mortgage, Protection and Investment Adviser 07921 760 169 graeme@themsolution.co.uk Richard Esses Mortgage and Protection Adviser 07968 023 438 richard@themsolution.co.uk The M Solution is a trading name of The M Solution (Kent) Ltd which is an appointed representative of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. MONEY MANAGEMENT AND MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS www.theMsolution.co.uk Choosing the right mortgage, protecting your family, investment, savings, tax planning and planning for retirement are some of the biggest decisions you are likely to make. The M Solution are here to help.
18 PROPERTY EXPERTISE THROUGHOUT EAST KENT A house purchase is the largest single investment most of us make in our life time and to consider such a purchase without the benefit of professional advice from an independent company such as Greenstone Chartered Surveyors would seem, to say the least, imprudent. Yet that is exactly what the majority of home buyers tend to do. Most house purchasers still rely on the Valuation Report prepared by their mortgage lender, although that report is primarily for the lenders own purposes and is based purely on financial grounds and not on any structural basis. A detailed survey such as the Homebuyer Survey and Valuation or the more in-depth Building Survey should be considered as a bare minimum irrespective of the age or condition of the property. These surveys are aimed at identifying defects which require repair in order to prevent further deterioration and possible associated damage. The survey will also draw attention to defects which can have a significant affect on the value and can form the basis for further negotiation on the purchase price. Often, the cost of the survey is only a fraction of the savings made through renegotiation. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Homebuyer Survey and Valuation is suited to most residential property. Obviously the cost of a survey will vary depending on the purchase price and type of property, as well as the type of survey required. C H A R T E R E D S U R V E Y O R S GreenStone
19 Ty Bryn, Keepers Hill, Canterbury CT4 5BT T: 01303 241 177 M: 07443 496 025 E: greenstone.surveyors@hotmail.co.uk www.greenstonesurveyors.co.uk If you are looking to buy a residential property in East Kent, Greenstone Chartered Surveyors specialise in: • RICS Homebuyer Reports • RICS Building Surveys • Valuations • Investment and Development advice • General property consultancy • Trained Japanese Knotweed Detection dog If you want a surveyor that does not hide costs, only charges what is agreed and puts its clients first then you need Greenstone Chartered Surveyors. Since 2013, the property seller is required to state whether Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is present on their property. Greenstone Chartered Surveyors are proud to announce they now have a trained Japanese Knotweed Detection dog. We are an experienced independent surveyor with a wealth of knowledge and have many years of experience in survey and valuation work covering Folkestone, Canterbury and across the whole of East Kent. We are well known to local Estate Agents and Solicitors. The business is approachable and friendly and will advise on which survey or valuation in our opinion, is most suited to your needs. Following the inspection, we will discuss our findings with you and advise you on the best course of action. When you are about to make such a large investment in your new property, it makes common sense to carry out a survey and ensure a real piece of mind. Greenstone Chartered Surveyors are ready, willing and able to help you achieve this.
20 It is often the parts of our property which we cannot see that can cause us problems in the future and our electrics are no exception. With electrical wiring, continual use can lead to degradation and eventually failure. This is why you should contact Cathedral Electrical Contractors, who are a friendly business with over 40 years of combined experience and offer a one stop shop for all your domestic and commercial electrical needs. All of their electricians are qualified to City and Guild’s standard and to the latest 18th edition including Part P. They have full indemnity insurance for up to 5 million pounds and are NAPIT registered. They cover the whole of Kent, Sussex and London offering a range of services which include testing, inspection, landlord certificates, outside lighting, emergency 24 hour callout, electrical rewire, fault finding, PAT testing, EV charging units, replacement fuse boxes and much more. Cathedral Electrical Contractors are a NAPIT registered company which means their work is carried out to the highest of standards. When you do contact the business, you can expect them to listen to your needs and offer you all the advice and guidance you will require. The company aims to offer homeowners a thorough and fair service and their customers can have complete peace of mind in all the work they carry out. If you have a problem with your electrics, or you have a security or cabling need, you should contact Cathedral Electrical Contractors. They can provide maintenance and installation services and will design and install the correct solution for your needs. Small enough to care, large enough to cope CATHEDRAL ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS 86 Heaton Road, Canterbury, CT1 3QA Tel: 01227 455 810 | Mobile: 07729 638 080 Email: info@cathedralelectrical.co.uk | www.cathedralelectrical.co.uk
21 We are delighted to have been transitioning our iconic fleet of Minis to the Mini Electric and Electric Hybrid models recently and we plan to continue this phasing out the petrol cars over the coming months. We’ve become adept at locating the charging points and making sure the cars are topped up for their next trip so at any time they are on standby and waiting for the next call out. Whilst the full electric models serve the City and surrounding areas admirably the hybrid version is great for longer and more rural trips where a greater distance needs to be covered or there may be no charging facility at the other end. As a combination they provide us with complete coverage and versatility whilst improving our environmental impact significantly. All the cars are still branded with eye-catching themes in our familiar and striking house colours – look out for the new electric thunderbolts!
22 Having been awarded “Excellent” status in the Best Estate Agents Guide, our lettings team offer a very special level of service. Our Lettings and Management division offers a two-tiered service, delivered personally under the direct management of Zoe Lawton-Barrett specifically avoiding the general production-line approach of the mass market. Our ethos is that we look after each and every property as if it were our own – an attitude we find popular with both our landlords and tenants. Our Tenant Find & Tenancy Set Up takes care of all the marketing, viewings, referencing plus the ancillary matters, culminating in the commencement of the tenancy. Landlords can then opt for our Full Management option which looks after the ongoing tenancy with a comprehensive level of service, taking the strain out of property letting. Our existing clients range from one off private landlords to professional investors with large portfolios, all of whom appreciate our relationship led style. In addition to marketing and management we are pleased to advise on all aspects of lettings compliance which is, of course, included with either lettings package. We also offer a bespoke Project Management Service which oversees a wide range of projects from necessary remedial works through to major refits and refurbishments. Our clients also enjoy peace of mind knowing we are part of the Propertymark Client money protection scheme.
23 We are delighted to have been recognised in national award programmes every year. Most recently we have been awarded Exceptional in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2022. The Guide is compiled in association with Rightmove using rigorous investigation, testing and research. It’s akin to our industry’s version of Ofsted and we are very proud indeed of our achievement as this level is only to the top 5% of estate agents nationally, just the top 20% make it into the guide at all. We are proud to have been selected to feature in the guide in consecutive years from 2017-2022 recognising the consistent high levels of service, marketing and results that we achieve for our clients. In recognition of our work with, and support of, regional charity and community projects we received an award at the 2016 Estate Agency of the Year Awards for our Corporate Social Responsibility. This is, of course, one of the accolades we are most proud of and we continue to work with various projects on an ongoing basis. Our first major award was in 2015 when we scooped a gong in the Newcomer category of the Estate Agency of the Year Awards – a real thrill to be recognised immediately in the industry as innovative, forward thinking and dynamic whilst providing uncompromising levels of service. Charlie, Zoe and Paul receive the award from Dame Sarah Storey, the most decorated Paralympian. Charlie receives the 2016 award from Spandau Ballet and Eastenders icon Martin Kemp. Charlie collecting the award from England Rugby Legend and Question of Sport captain Matt Dawson.
24 Our sales progression expertise ensures your move is closely overseen and effectively managed every step of the way. Before a sale is agreed we’ll be implementing a robust due-diligence procedure to ensure the potential buyer can demonstrate their means of purchase and any variables that need to considered along with the offer itself. There are a multitude of factors that can influence the position: Is there a mortgage requirement? How much deposit is available? Is there a related sale involved and if so what the status of the sale and any other in the chain? If it’s a cash purchase can proof of such funds be promptly provided (you would be amazed at the different interpretations of “cash” that we hear!). Once we are happy with the solidity of the buyer, and should the offer be accepted by the seller, we then progress to the conveyancing process. The same team that have looked after the marketing from day one also run the sales progression to ensure our clients have complete continuity of service right the way through to moving day. We have regular feedback complimenting the relationships that are forged during this element of the cycle, which can be critical to ensuring a positive and successful outcome. If you have any questions about the potential progression of your sale or any elements that are involved just ask any one of the team and they’ll be pleased to help. When your sale is agreed the hard work starts – and we’ve got it covered…
25 So you’ve made that decision to move Not a decision taken lightly by any of us, your home is usually your biggest financial asset; but nonetheless you have agreed that the time has come to place your property on the market whether you’re moving up, down or relocating entirely the process of selling needs careful handling from day one. How do you get things started Choose your estate agent wisely, make sure they are going to work with you not just through the sale but they are going to be there throughout the whole transaction. Jubilation Now you have accepted an offer and perhaps also secured a property you wish to buy. By the time you appoint a solicitor we know that you may have already been through a rather stressful time. Always try to appoint a local firm and obtain an estimate before instructing your solicitor, this will save time and is far more convenient. That first call is so important, like everything else, first impressions count and you will quickly know if the conveyancer is someone you will enjoy working with and will look after your best interests. There are six distinct stages of your transaction:- 1. Instructions - confirmation of instructions to your solicitor to act on your behalf and of course the mandatory Identity regulations - another benefit of using a local firm, you can attend the office and provide the necessary ID swiftly and easily. 2. Pre-exchange work - involves submitting or receiving a contract pack; if you are selling, the solicitor will obtain official copies of the title from the Land Registry to your existing home, supply you with protocol documents i.e. Property Information Form and Fixtures and Fittings Form for your completion, as these form part of the contract pack. Planning permission and building regulation consents should be produced where work has been undertaken by the seller. If you are buying a property, your solicitor will receive a contract pack, approve the contract and raise any enquiries that are necessary. 3. Searches - usually only applicable to a purchase, these are generally a Local Authority Search; Drainage Search; Environmental Search and a Chancel Check. Some of these searches are discretionary. Your solicitor will report to you on the results of all these searches. 4. Mortgage Instructions - only relevant on a purchase of course, your solicitor can’t proceed until they have received a copy of your mortgage offer and instructions from your lender and have complied with all the mortgage conditions. 5. Exchange of contracts – Yippee! - this is the legally binding part, now you can prepare for completion day, confirm removals and organise those change of address cards! 6. Completion your moving day - stay in touch with your solicitor and agent – all systems go! After completion your solicitor will have some registration work to do and we will look after this for you. Lastly and most importantly... The Moving Process Made Easy! Editorial Credit: Marsha Marriner, Partner, Whitehead Monckton Law Firm ...settle in and enjoy your new home! Editorial Credit: Marsha Marriner, Partner, Whitehead Monckton Law Firm
26 Moving with children Make it fun and engaging for the children - the move is likely to be far easier to manage. When preparing to move home give serious consideration to explaining the process to the children. It can be sensible to tell the children of your plans as soon as possible. They are sure to find out one way or the other and being upfront will enable you to manage the situation better and to retain control. Getting the children involved is often a good way of engaging them with the project and even seeking their help with preparations for viewings can have a very positive effect. Similarly, asking the children what they may look for in a new house can be exciting. The children obviously won’t have a major influence on your decision, but their apparent involvement can pay dividends. Although young children may be fascinated by viewers coming to look over the house, however endearing they are, they are generally a distraction and the prospective buyer should be concentrating on looking at the house. Similarly a tidying up tantrum, just as viewers are arriving, is something to avoid (that goes for the parents too!). We suggest that the viewing should be left to us and the children are best taken for a walk (with the dog!) where practical. Children love practicing their signature and signing documents so we’ve created the Family Agreement to get the children really feeling involved in the process – we hope you find it helpful.
27 moving house is exciting! So let’s all agree to... tidyourbedroomseverymorning make sure our things are not scattered around the house make sure bikes and stuff are not lying around in the garden make sure the washing up is done and tidy the kitchen turn off the radio and television whenpeoplecomeroundtoview keepthestairwaysclearofclutter pets – some love them, some hate them and some are allergic tothem,somakesurethatonthe viewingtheyareoutofthehouse keep the toilets clean being polite to people when the come to view ...be proud of our house! We the undersigned agree to help our family move by helping with the above items. Signed by the family: Dated:
28 We’ve created an easy and quick check list to help you compare the benefits offered by agents you may be considering Service Owner run business Happy and motivated team Friendly, helpful and interested staff Directors and staff all live locally Member of National Association of Estate agents Member of the Ombudsman Scheme Regular communication No long sole agency contract Accompanied viewings Free professional standard photographs Free colour floorplans High impact individual brochures Utilises state of the art software Lettings and management department Specialist sales progressing team Client references encouraged Post sale surveys available Comprehensive web coverage High profile regional media coverage Charitable donation from every sale Benefit to the seller Complete personal commitment from the people in charge No staff turnover means continuity of relationship for the client A pleasure to work with Intimate knowledge of the area, schools and facilities for purchasers Qualified Directors and staff Peace of mind for the client Keeping you informed and updated If you’re anything but delighted - just terminate anytime Take the awkwardness out of viewings, leave it to the experts The highest quality presentation with no additional cost to you Engaging and easily digested presentation Inspiring well-informed viewings Creates swift and efficient internal systems Direct access to tenants looking to buy Ensuring your sale has the highest chance of completing Speak to existing clients to get their first hand opinion See the results for yourself – completely open and transparent Reaching London, national and international buyers Not soley reliant on web exposure, ensuring rounded marketing Portion of your fee goes to Porchlight Other Agent? Other Agent?
29 Viewing Record Keep track of all your viewings, comments, feedback and offers with our viewings record below DATE VIEWER’S NAME FEEDBACK SECOND VIEWING Y/N OFFER AMOUNT £
30 Mobile phone Broadband Telephone TV Gas and electricity Insurance Credit card Bank and/or building society Pensions and investment Loyalty cards TV Licensing Vehicle registration – DVLA Drivers licence - DVLA HMRC Electoral roll Doctor Dentist Optician Vet Schools Nursery Employer CHECKLIST MOVING
31 Buying your new home Legal fees £ Mortgage broker fee (if applicable) £ Stamp Duty £ Deposit for mortgage £ Arrangement fee to lender (if applicable) £ Additional fees £ Storage/removal company/ van hire £ Bridging loan (if required) £ Total cost of purchase £ Anticipated monthly cost Mortgage payment £ Life insurance/income protection £ Buildings and contents insurance £ Rates payable £ Total monthly property costs £ Settling in costs Repairs, alterations and decoration £ Telephone/internet £ Gardening £ Fixtures and fittings £ Furniture £ Curtains and carpets £ Total of settling in costs £ CHECKLIST BUDGET This Guide to Moving Home has been prepared for CHARLES BAINBRIDGE of CANTERBURY by GLARIC CONSULTANCY LIMITED, 58 Hove Road, Lytham St Annes, FY8 1XH T: 0800 1303 556 E: glaric@aol.com W: www.glaric.com Copyright Glaric Consultancy Ltd 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or stored in any way whatsoever without the prior written permission of the publisher. (09.22) Whilst it is believed that the editorial features included in this Guide are representative of the businesses appearing, no responsibility will be accepted by CHARLES BAINBRIDGE or GLARIC CONSULTANCY LIMITED in respect of any products or services supplied by them.
32 A moving experience a guide for moving home with dogs Despite the best planning and organisation, moving house can be a bit stressful (although ultimately very rewarding). For those people who are also dog owners, the process of moving can be a source of added stress, as well as the initial settling in period once in the new home. Fortunately, the transition can be made far more stress-free for the dogs (and therefore for the owners too). On moving day, have the dog go somewhere else. A friend, relative or kennel can look after the pooch, while the multitude of boxes, furniture and (in some cases) the kitchen sink gets transported from one place to another. Whether there are going to be removal services (i.e. complete strangers in the house) or you are doing the job yourself, it is a good idea to have the dog out of harm’s way. Once everything is ready to go, pick the dog up without making a fuss. Often we humans tend to make a big fuss to try to reassure a dog that everything is OK. The best way to do this is to act like everything is under control. No reaction is better than an overreaction. The new home can be a big deal for a dog The new territory, new sights and smells etc. can overwhelm a dog. It is important to take things slow and give your dog time to get used to the new environment. It is a good idea to take your dog out to where you would like it to toilet as soon as possible. Be patient; let the dog sniff about and praise when it goes in the right place. A dog might get it wrong at first – sometimes due to stress at the change of circumstances – so if that happens simply put the dog out of the way and clean up without a word. This is easier said than done but for some dogs the new place needs to smell more “homely” and scent marking is one possible way to do this. Make the place more familiar by making sure that the dog’s bed/blankets are set up in the home as soon as you can. This way there is already a familiar smell to the place which can avoid the previous problem. If your dog has a favourite toy then that can be brought out too. The new neighbourhood needs checking out but make sure that you are the one to take your dog, not the other way around. Dogs that pull on the leash are dogs that are making decisions (I will take us here and get there first). Starting in the home and garden (if you have one), walk around and change direction often. This is done calmly and slowly in case your dog tears around all the time. When the dog is walking nicely (the leash is slack) you can then venture further using the same technique. Explore the outside one bit at a time being happy and in control of the walk. If your dog barks at a stranger or other dog, calmly thank them. Their job is to let you know that there is a problem. If they carry on, have a look at what they are barking at and thank again. If they continue then without speaking put the dog somewhere on its own to calm down. The last thing you want is for the dog to think that this new place is dangerous and gets you upset too! To find out exactly what you can do to help your dog to settle into the new home as calmly as possible, I have created an audio download which is easy to follow. It is full of useful advice and you can listen to it while unpacking all those boxes! Go to www.tonyknightdoglistener.com and look for the audio “Think Like A Dog”. T: 07786 776409 E: tony.amichien@gmail.com www.tonyknightdoglistener.com
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