Property Drop Issue 9

#THEPROPERTYDROP 

1-14 AUGUST 2017 

THEPROPERTYDROP.CO.UK 

ISSUE 9 

FREE COPY 

MONMOUTHSHIRE | SOUTH HEREFORDSHIRE | WEST GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

11 

INSIDE OUR EXQUISITE 

FRONT COVER HOME 

34 

SEVERN BRIDGE TOLLS 

ABOLISHED NEXT YEAR 

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

2 AL FRESCO 

Easy summertime living… 

From family barbecues to drinks with friends, entertaining is so much 

easier when you can enjoy it al fresco. The British summer can be 

all too brief - and unpredictable - so it pays to make the best of the 

good spells. That’s why so many of us design or improve our 

homes to create flexible outdoor living spaces. 

If your budget will stretch, a garden room or conservatory is a wonderful addition to your home, ideal for enjoying the 

garden all year round and great to retreat to in summer if that sunshine suddenly turns liquid! By having a solid roof or 

fitting roof blinds you can make sure you can enjoy your room both in the heat of summer and the cool of winter. 

Bi-fold doors opening straight to the garden or patio are another popular choice and ideal for bringing the outdoors 

indoors. Putting a roof over part of your courtyard or erecting a stylish pergola or gazebo in your garden can also provide 

useful summer shade or shelter. 

severnquay.co.uk 

severnquay.co.uk 

pablack.co.uk (Monmouth) 

pablack.co.uk (Monmouth) 

THE PROPERTY DROP ROUNDUP 

Page 

10 

Historic riverside property 

on the market with 

Ferrino and Partners 

So many wonderful editorial 

properties this Issue, and one that has a 

superb story is The Priory at Awre. 

Turn to page 14 and read about the 

history behind the riverside property 

and the varied potential it now offers 

from it’s holiday cottage business and 

small holding opportunity. 

Page 

17 

Monmouth Retail Unit 

Michael Skidmore Estate Agents 

market the vacant ‘Shirtbox’ retail unit 

at 13 Agincourt Square. In a prime 

position opposite the Shire Hall, 

this commercial offering is ideal and 

affordable for a variety of uses. 

For more information on rates 

and rents, call into Michael Skidmore’s 

office at 10 Monnow Street. 

Page 

14 

The Cedars, Usk, 

marketed by 

Roscoe, Rogers & Knight 

Arguably one of the most luxurious 

properties on the market locally. 

The Cedars, on the outskirts of Usk, 

has been finished to the highest 

standard and is a must see for buyers.

3 

You can transform your patio or terrace into a cosy place to relax on a summer’s evening with a chiminea or fire 

pit. Outdoor fairy lights and lanterns can create a truly magical ambience and the choice of garden furniture on the 

market enables you to create a really stylish effect – times have moved on from the traditional wooden bench and 

plastic picnic set! 

Take a peek at what our Property Drop agents have to offer all fans of al fresco living… 

pablack.co.uk (Chepstow) 

ferrino.co.uk 

monmouthpropertybureau.co.uk 

ferrino.co.uk 


pablack.co.uk (Chepstow) 

Severn Bridge Tolls 

Page 

34 The Government last week confirmed 

that Severn Bridge tolls will be removed 

by the end of 2018. As Archer and Co continue 

marketing properties both sides of the bridge. 

(More info on page 

13), Peter Mills of 

the Severn Quay 

development shares 

drive time research for 

those looking 

to commute to 

Bristol and further afield. 

Page 

36 

Although the property market is crying out for 

more homes, research suggests that vacant 

properties are at an all time high. 

Tim Lowe, founder of Lowe Guardians, talks 

us through the possibilities of managing these 

properties in the future and how the government 

and tighter regulations could help make this an 

attractive proposition for owners. 

Latest News 

We are delighted to announce, 

following fantastic support and 

engagement, from the 1st of 

August the door to door part 

of our distribution will double. 

The Property Drop will be hand 

delivered through extra letterboxes 

not only in Monmouth, Ross on 

Wye and Chepstow - but in new 

areas within Magor, Caldicot, 

Raglan and Usk. 

That’s nearly 40,000 copies - over 

two new editions, available on the 

1st and 15th of every month. 

The rural delivery also welcomes 

new points and will expand over 

the coming months - are you off the 

beaten track but have a potential 

reader footfall? You could be an 

independent community shop, a 

public house/restaurant or a tourist 

attraction…. Please get in touch to 

be added to the round. 

If you’re a visitor to the area 

and have picked us up in a local 

motorway services or supermarket 

- we can offer a subscription, 

available in print and online. 

Suzy & Mandy 

bedroom 

bathroom 

www.thepropertydrop.co.uk 

01600 711680 

info@thepropertydrop.co.uk 

The icons under the properties throughout 

Property Drop indicate the following: 

living bathroom 

etc 

bathroom 

bedroom 

bedroom 

central heating 

garage/covered parking 

parking 

Whilst every care garage/covered is taken parking with materials submitted to The 

Property Drop the publisher cannot accept responsibility for 

loss or damage garage/covered to such materials. parking parking Opinions expressed in 

articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is 

copyright and may parking not be reproduced in any form without 

written permission from the publishers. 

Prices and details are subject to change and the publisher 

can take no responsibility for omissions or errors. The 

inclusion of an advertiser in this paper is not necessarily a 

recommendation. 

©The Property Drop 2017 


bedroom 

Number of 

bedrooms 

bedroom 

living room etc 

Number bathroom of 

bathroom 

living room 

central 

etc 

heating 



bathroom 




bedroom 



reception 

rooms 

Number of 

bathrooms 



parking 

ELECTRIC 

Method of 

central 

heating 

Covered 

garage 

parking 

parking 

Parking 

space

4 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Coed Lank Farm, Broadoak, Herefordshire 

RRK 01600 772929 www.roscoerogersandknight.co.uk 

Offers over 

£900,000 

bedroom bedroom 

4 

living living room room etc etc 


bathroom 

Exceptional farmhouse, holiday cottages, land & outbuildings. 

Set in a truly rural location on the outskirts of Garway this spacious and beautifully 

presented, Grade II Listed, 16th Century detached farmhouse oozes character and a 

wealth of original features. Restored and remodelled to the highest of standards with 

bright, light and spacious rooms throughout arranged attractively over three floors 

including four large bedrooms. 

The grounds total four and a half acres with mature gardens, gravelled driveways and 

extensive parking giving access to the newly completed two bedroomed, fully equipped 

holiday cottages with are now being let with a potential income of £12,000 for each per annum. 

bathroom 

living room living room etc etc 

bathroom 




3 4 4 


garage/covered parking parking 

There is also a recently constructed, central central heating heatingopen fronted, detached quadruple garage with 

bathroom bathroom 


invaluable fully boarded spacious room over with roof lights. On the lower side of the 

property is a fenced high spec ménage, an extensive fenced paddock running down 

to a stream on one boundary and stabling together with a range of useful and well 

garage/covered parking parking parking parking 

constructed outbuildings all accessed via a pair of automated, boarded entrance gates. 

Garway has an excellent primary school, village pub/restaurant and active hall and 

Monmouth is a short distance away with its renowned schools and excellent links to 

the major road networks. 

OIL 

parking 

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY 

The Griffin, 1 Whitcross Street, Monmouth 


Price 

£385,000 

Occupying a prime position in the centre of the historic “Old town” with attractive views of St Mary’s church 

and the benefit of shops, library, cinema and high calibre schools right on its doorstep, this attractive and 

substantial Grade II listed three storey end of terrace property has been used for many years as a Public 

house on the ground floor with two cloak rooms and a cellar. Above is a very spacious four bedroomed 

apartment over two floors with its own separate side entrance. This impressive building has many original 

period features include large sash windows, fire places, beams, moulded skirting boards and wooden doors 

and floorboards. A main gas fired boiler provides hot water and heating to radiators to the apartment. The 

property has been upgraded over the years and the ground floor could be ideal as a spacious and elegant 

office for the likes of solicitors or accountants or the whole may have potential to be converted into a 

townhouse subject listed building and planning consent.

BELMONT HOUSE, CHRISTCHURCH £1,200,000 

THE FOLLY 

TRELLECH, MONMOUTHSHIRE £1,200,000 

3 6 4 

F 

2 5 3 

E 

Set off a quiet lane this substantial, 3 storey, 6 bed family home with 

adjoining 1 bed cottage, a wide range of spacious, well-maintained 

outbuildings, 14 acres and uninterrupted views towards the Malvern 

Hills. Remodelled and extended it has a layout ideal for 

multi-generational living. Mature, mainly lawned gardens with pool, 

tennis court and balconied summer house. The gated tarmac drive 

accesses extensive parking areas, a barn, equestrian facilities and 

paddocks. Easy access to Wye Valley walks and major road networks. 

This stunning, contemporary country house enjoys outstanding views 

across the renowned Wye Valley and is located between Monmouth & 

Chepstow with unrivalled high levels of privacy. Its unique design and 

layout capitalises fully on its aspect with spacious and open split level 

communal areas bathed with natural light from a central glazed 

atrium roof linking living spaces and its five bedrooms. Beautifully 

presented with top quality, bespoke fixtures and fittings throughout. 

Detached triple garage with apartment/office over, detached fully 

equipped gym extensive parking, private drive all in approximately 3 

acres of landscaped grounds and gardens. 

OLD TRECASTLE BARN & LODGE, 

MONMOUTH 

£995,000 

ST. MARGARET’S COTTAGE, 

ST BRIAVELS 

£695,000 CAE JACK, LYDART, MONMOUTH £610,000 

C C E 

A pair of outstanding, beautifully restored & 

presented classic barns set in an idyllic 

countryside location within landscaped 

gardens, ample parking and pasture land 

totalling approx. 4.85 acres and meandering 

driveway. The 4 bed main barn has 

extensive open-plan reception areas while 

the neighbouring detached 2 bed barn is 

also spacious and ideal for extended family 

living, holiday let or office. 

Set in attractive mature gardens and 

paddock totalling approx. one acre this 

spacious beautifully presented 5 bedroom 

country cottage is light and airy and enjoys 

an elevated position above the Wye Valley. 

It has a decked terrace, a workshop and a 

detached double garage with room over 

and private tarmac driveway. 

This 18th Century 4 bed farmhouse has 

been restored and extended to retain and 

embellish its charm and great character 

throughout. Located high above Monmouth 

it enjoys excellent levels of light and far 

reaching countryside views. Fully restored 

stone built outbuildings including a hay 

barn and an open fronted converted former 

cow byre all set in 0.4 acres of beautifully 

landscaped gardens and grounds accessed 

from its meandering driveway. 

3 Agincourt Square • Monmouth • NP25 3BT • Call: 01600 772929 

enquiries@roscoerogersandknight.co.uk • roscoerogersandknight.co.uk 

Monmouth & London offices

Local 

Independent 

Professional 

87 Monnow Street, Monmouth NP25 • 01600 712916 

TRELLECH 

Situated in the popular village of Trellech between Monmouth and Chepstow, 

a detached house, recently built to a very high standard with character features 

including wood floors and stone fireplace with large rooms providing spacious 

accommodation including a reception hall, cloakroom, sitting room, garden 

room, kitchen/breakfast room and three double bedrooms, one en suite and 

a family bathroom. The house is approached through double wooden gates 

going through the old stone outbuilding to a parking area and detached 

garage with a level garden. EPC Band: C 

£450,000 

ST MaugHanS 

Located in the sought after rural hamlet of St Maughans this delightful four 

bedroom bungalow has been tastefully re-furbished and extended to create 

bright and airy rooms throughout. The front garden benefits from some distant 

countryside views, extensive brick paved driveway and turning area. The rear 

lawned garden is a perfect size for those wanting a space to relax and potter. 

In addition there is also planning permission for a 2 bed roof conversion. All 

blinds are included. A school bus provides transport for Monmouth schools. No 

upper chain. EPC Rating: D 

£325,000 

bRoCkWEIR 

A period detached house situated on a country lane amidst the beautiful 

countryside of the Wye valley above the village of Brockweir between 

Chepstow and Monmouth. 

The attractive house provides a handcrafted kitchen and large conservatory, 

shower room, utility room and three reception rooms with three bedrooms 

and a bathroom. Outside is a mature cottage garden with a graveled parking 

area, a detached garage and orchard extending to approximately ½ acre. 

EPC Band: F 

£525,000 

CaTbRook 

Situated in the picturesque village of Catbrook. In a prestigious cul de sac of just seven 

executive detached residences this detached property sits in a gated plot of ¾ of an acre. 

The interior offers open plan kitchen/dining room which can be opened up into the 

spacious lounge for entertaining. The accommodation also includes cloakroom, study 

and on the first floor master bedroom with re-fitted en-suite, second bedroom with 

open plan dressing room/study/sitting room, two further double bedrooms and family 

bathroom. Outside the gated gardens offer a good degree of privacy and are currently 

laid to lawn with mature trees and shrubs, decked terrace and enclosed patio area, 

chicken coop and feature stone areas. EPC Band: E 

£575,000 

www.newlandrennie.com

PROPERTIES 7 

bedroom 


The Paddocks, Trellech, Monmouth NP25 4PE Price 

Newland Rennie 01600 712916 www.newlandrennie.com £535,000 

bedroom bedroom living living room room etc etc 

bathroom 

central central heating heating 


primary school, doctors surgery, church and village hall. 

4 

bedroom bedroom living room living room etc etc 


bathroom 

2 3 1 

bathroom 



A substantial stone fronted property built to a high specification situated in the sought after 


village of Trellech which provides a range of local amenities including shop, 


OIL 


parking 

parking 

parking 

The house is located between the towns of Chepstow and 

Monmouth both of which provide a comprehensive range 

of amenities including schools which enjoy excellent 

reputations, a wide range of shops, sporting facilities, 

hospital and medical centre and restaurants. 

The house was built approximately 10 years ago and 

provides light, spacious accommodation including 

reception hall, cloakroom, large open plan kitchen/ 

dining and living area, utility room, drawing room and 

sitting room with 4 double bedrooms, two en suite 

shower rooms and a family bathroom. 


Electric gates open to an extensive paved parking area 

and garage with lawn and raised rockery. To the rear of 

the property is a large patio and level lawn with a decked 

seating area and garden shed. 

Property Disputes 

Buying, selling and owning residential property can be very 

stressful where problems may arise during the initial stages through 

misrepresentation of information, poor professional service or the 

condition of the property on completion of the transaction. 

The problems can continue throughout ownership with neighbour and 

boundary disputes, high hedges, party wall issues, excessive noise, parking 

and driveway access, and planning permission. 

As a landlord or tenant of a leasehold property, disputes may arise over the 

interpretation of the lease or tenancy agreement, deposits, rent reviews, repossession, 

rent recovery and claims for disrepair. 

Owning a property jointly, receiving financial help from a parent or grandparent 

to assist in purchasing , and an elderly person sharing ownership or occupation are 

all common scenarios where lawyers are rarely involved in the early stages of the 

transaction, or where the advice given has been inadequate, giving rise to disputes 

when the relationship breaks down. 

At Gwyn James Solicitors, we appreciate that those involved will wish to resolve 

or avoid the dispute as quickly as possible with costs kept to a minimum. We 

have both the expertise and the experience to assist you in resolving your dispute 

efficiently with the minimum of stress. Our Dispute Resolution Team will listen 

carefully to you to gain a full understanding of the issues giving rise to the dispute 

and practical advice will be given to assist you in taking control of the situation as 

well as offering you legal representation where required. 

Getting it right at the onset can avoid disputes in the future. Gwyn James 

Solicitors can guide you through the complex field of property law and estate 

planning, including: advice on property ownership; establishing a trust or formal 

agreement where property is jointly owned, a financial contribution made or sharing 

occupation with others; and dealing with issues relating to your property on being 

admitted into care or on your death or the death of a joint owner. 

GWYN JAMES 

S O L C I T O R S 

THE PROPERTY SPECIALISTS 

u Residential Sales and Purchases 

u Remortgage 

u Buy to Let 

u Shared Equity Purchases 

u Help to Buy Schemes 

u Leasehold Properties 

u Equity Release 

u Property Trusts 

u Sharing Ownership 

u Property Disputes 

COLEFORD | MONMOUTH | ROSS ON WYE | CINDERFORD 

(01594 833042) (01600 775950) (01989 564209) (01594 822277) 

info@gwynjames.co.uk 

www.gwynjames.co.uk 

Gwyn James Solicitors is a trading name of Gwyn James Legal Limited 

which is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

8 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


31 Monnow Keep, Monmouth 

Monmouth Property Bureau 01600 719184 

www.monmouthpropertybureau.co.uk 

£208,000 

Leasehold 


2 




bathroom 

1 2 

bathroom 

bathroom 

GAS 




parking 

Monnow Keep is a modern development completed around 2006 and is a mixture of town houses, 



detached properties and apartments. 

Because of its proximity to the town centre and modern architecture these properties 

come only too rarely with many home owners deciding they will not move again. 

Therefore this is a rare opportunity to acquire a two bedroom ground floor apartment 

in this select location right in the centre of Monmouth yet close to riverside walks 

and open countryside, uniquely combining the best of both town and quiet residential 

living. 




Having its own private step-free entrance, the property is well laid out and offers a 

parking 

parking 

Situated just behind Monnow Street with close access to the shops, restaurants and 

many attractions Monmouth has to offer 

light and airy lounge/diner, stylish integrated kitchen, attractive bathroom and well 

appointed en suite to the master bedroom with private allocated parking and attractive 

communal gardens. Chain free. Leasehold. 

monmouth 

PROPERTY BUREAU 

Your local sales and 

lettings specialist 

Sales: 01600 719184 

Lettings: 01600 719183 

Thinking of selling your house? 

Here at Monmouth Property Bureau we 

take you and your property personally. 

We are proud of our reputation for 

excellent service and work hard to get the 

best price for your property. 

11 Opulus Way, Monmouth 

BRAND NEW. 3 bed semi detached with 

entrance hall, breakfast/kitchen, sitting room, 

WC, en suite, house bathroom, gardens, 

parking, Gas CH Agency Fees Apply 

£850 PCM 

Our fees undoubtedly offer the best value 

for money in town at 1%*, which 

includes solicitors fees for your sale, 

saving you a minimum of £500. 

So if you are looking for a local, 

independent estate agent offering a flexible, 

customer focused approach, call 

14 Wyefield Court, Monmouth 

Well presented house in cul de sac location 

with good sized sitting room, breakfast/kitchen, 

2 double beds, bathroom, off road parking, 

gardens, Gas CH EPC D Agency Fees Apply 

£600 PCM 

Monmouth Property Bureau 

on 01600 719183 

or visit us at 

The Market Tavern, 

Agincourt Square, Monmouth 


* Terms & Conditions Apply 

The Market Tavern, Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT 


3 Monnow Keep, Monmouth 

Beautifully presented modern town house just 

off the centre of town with lovely views across 

open countryside and the river Monnow. EPC 

C. Agency Fees Apply 

£900 PCM

Sales: 01600 719184 

Lettings: 01600 719183 

TINMANS GREEN, REDBROOK £275,000 

MANSONS CROSS, MONMOUTH £325,000 

• 4 Bedrooms 

• 2 Receptions 

• Kitchen/Diner 

• Utility Room 

• Bathroom 

• Ensuite Shower 

Room 

• Double Garage 

• EPC C 

• Driveway 


• 2 Reception Rooms 

• Kitchen 

• Wet Room 2 WC 

• 1/2 Acre Gardens 

• Garage & Driveway 

• Build / Extend 

Potential 

• Planning Required 

• EPC D 

HENDRE CLOSE, MONMOUTH £125,000 

WYEFIELD COURT, MONMOUTH £157,500 


• Lounge 

• Kitchen/Diner 

• Bathroom/WC 

• Garden 

• Parking 

• Leasehold 

• EPC C 

• Ideal Investment 

Property 

• Ideal Buy to Let 


• Lounge 

• Bathroom 

• Kitchen 

• Gardens/Parking 

• Mid Terrace 

• EPC C 

• Chain Free 

THE VINEYARD, MONMOUTH £550,000 

OSBASTON, MONMOUTH £475,000 


• 4 Receptions 

• Kitchen/Breakfast 

Room 

• En Suite Bathroom 

• En Suite Shower 

Room 

• Family Bathroom 

• Southerly Gardens 

• Lovely Views 

• Extensive Parking 

• EPC D 


• Lounge 

• Kitchen/Family 

Room 

• Shower Room 

• En Suite 

• Utility Room 

• Sun Room 

• Sun Terrace 

• Garage 

• Driveway 

• EPC C 


The Market Tavern, Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT

10 

PROPERTIES 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY 

13 Agincourt Square, Monmouth 

Michael Skidmore 01600 714466 www.michaelskidmore.com 

Price 

£15,500 pa 

We are a nation of shop keepers. 

Located in the town centre of Monmouth, is a former gentleman’s outfitters which is 

now available to rent to a new retailing tenant. The agents, Michael Skidmore Estate 

Agents, consider that this shop would attract the interests of many an aspiring shop 

keeper being suitable for many trades, some of which may need planning consent. 

The property is located on 4 floors (with a cellar suitable for storage) whilst the ground 

floor provides approximately 450 square feet of retail space. Above there is a further 

similar storage area with two further floors above, which may be capable of use as a 

residential flat in connection with the shop. The premises are ideal for a “new start 

business” being prominently located, literally opposite the famous Shire Hall and the 

busy Tourist Centre. It is quite close to several off-loading/parking bays and of course is 

within a very short walk of the town’s busiest car park. 

The property is being offered with a new lease at an initial rental of £15,500 per annum. 

10 Monnow Street, Monmouth, 

Monmouthshire, NP25 3EE 

www.michaelskidmore.com 

ms@michaelskidmore.co.uk 

Tel: 01600 714466 

MICHAEL SKIDMORE 

ESTATE AGENTS 

zoopla.co.uk • onthemarket.com 

OVERMONNOW MONNOW STREET, MONMOUTH MONMOUTH 

NEW RENTAL 

NEW 

RENTAL 

Spacious End Terrace 3 Bed House which overlooks a public 

green. Set at the end of a cul-de-sac. Gas CH. EPC rating D. 

Bond required £675. 

£675 PCM 

Commercial property with potential. Approx. 530 sq ft of ground floor 

space. Possibility of separate self contained 2 Bed Flat above. More 

information via Agents. Present business unaffected. Awaiting EPC. 

£275,000 

3 Bed End Terrace House, set in a peaceful cul-de-sac. Kitchen includes builtin 

oven & hob. Master Bedroom has En-Suite Shower Room. Enclosed rear 

garden & parking for 2 vehicles to front. EPC rating B. Bond required £750. 

£750 PCM 

No Upward Chain 

MONMOUTH LLANGOVAN OVERMONNOW 

NEW RENTAL 

Ideal Investment 

Spacious 4 Bed Town House. Above average sized garden with 

vehicular access. Walking distance of town’s main amenities. 

2 Garages. Gas CH. EPC rating E. 

£449,950 

Detached 3 Bed Bungalow, recently updated, occupying 

a delightful rural setting amidst rolling farmland with far 

reaching views. EPC rating E. Bond required £675. 

£675 PCM 

Viewing essential in order to appreciate this very well presented 

2 Bed Top Floor Apartment. Refurbished Kitchen & Bathroom. 

Underfloor heating. D/G. EPC rating E. 

£129,000

FRONT COVER HOME 

11 

bedroom 


Springfield Farm, Earlswood, Chepstow 

Fine & Country 01291 629799 www.fineandcountry.com 

Price 

£1,600,000 


7 


bedroom 

bathroom 

bathroom 



4 5 2 



This magnificent property, originally a small country cottage, has been extended and updated over the years. 

The internal joinery and fittings have been executed to the most exacting standards by 

the occupying vendors over the last thirty years or so, and they have added a fine leisure 

suite with vaulted ceiling and indoor swimming pool. 

The property is an idyllic rural retreat yet within easy access of all amenities with the 

property being approximately 5 miles from the A449 at Usk, giving access in turn to the 

M4 Newport and the M50 at Monmouth. 

The property is approached via a gated entrance to a block pavior driveway with superb 

parking facilities and stands in particularly well tended and stocked mature formal and 

cottage gardens with ornamental water features plus large spring fed duck pond with 

duck house, etc. 


Standing in approximately 31 acres with central central heating well heatingmaintained agricultural buildings 


including barns, tack rooms, and loose boxes. 

Excellent riding and hacking facilities are on hand with Wentwood Forest rides just 

a short distance away. Local schooling can be found in Shirenewton with Secondary 


schooling in Usk, and Chepstow and private schooling at Haberdashers in Monmouth. 

The property has particularly flexible accommodation with two staircases and almost 

two wings, which the Agent’s feel, whilst being a superb family home, lends itself to 

multi-generational living. 

It is the Agent’s opinion that to fully appreciate the many features and standard of 

workmanship contained within the property, an internal inspection is essential. 

parking

12 ADVICE 

What is 

Leasehold Property? 

by Lisa Dobbs of Dobbs & Drew 

There are two ways you can hold land, freehold and leasehold. Most houses are freehold, and virtually all flats 

are leasehold. The basic difference is that, if you buy a freehold then you own it indefinitely. 

If you have a leasehold, then eventually the landlord 

gets the property back at the end of the lease. Lease 

terms for residential property are usually at least 80 

years, and there are statutory rights for most tenants 

to renew their leases, so this isn’t usually a problem. It 

should be noted that many Lenders require the term 

of the Lease to be a Minimum of 70 years remaining 

from the date of the mortgage but this varies with each 

Lender. 

There is nothing wrong with owning leasehold 

property, as long as the lease has been drafted properly. 

Your conveyancer will check the terms of the lease as 

part of the conveyancing process. 

Why do flats need be leasehold? 

The reason that flats are sold leasehold is so the 

repairing obligations for the structure of the building 

can be enforced. In contrast, positive freehold repairing 

obligations cannot be enforced. This is a problem with 

land law that has been unresolved for a very long time. 

With leasehold property, the positive and negative 

obligations can always be enforced between the current 

landlord and the current tenant. 

Let’s assume that there are two freehold flats, Luke 

has just bought the freehold of his first-floor flat and the 

roof, and Becki has just bought the downstairs freehold 

flat and the foundations. If Luke doesn’t repair the roof 

and guttering, damp and flooding could ruin Becki’s flat. 

However, because ‘positive’ freehold covenants are not 

enforceable against the other flat owner, Becki has no 

way of making Luke maintain the roof or gutters. 

Similarly, if a large crack formed in the ground floor 

flat, meaning that the first-floor flat became dangerous 

to live in, there would be nothing Luke could do to 

make Becki comply with his ‘covenants’ to maintain his 

flat. 

However, if the flats had been leasehold, with a 

common landlord owning the structure, both Becki 

and Luke could force the landlord to repair the roof 

and walls, though they may have to accept that they 

would pay the cost of this through the service charge 

provisions in their respective leases. 

Dobbs & Drew 

Property Lawyers 

Opening hours Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 1pm 

Are you frustrated with your 

broadband? 

Is it slow, unreliable or just 

non-existent? 

DON’T STRESS! TALK TO THE EXPERTS TODAY! 

We are specialists in: 

• Cellular broadband systems, innovative solutions 

to rural broadband problems 

• Commercial and domestic installations 

• Long range and unified Wi-Fi 

• Wireless security 

• IT support and infrastructure 

We are suppliers of reliable and fast broadband 

in remote locations and have successfully installed 

in many homes and businesses since November 2016. 

01600 714344 • info@blueglow.co.uk 

Thinking of Moving House? 

Sell your Current home for £599 inclusive 

Buy your New home for £899 

plus Stamp Duty & Land Registry fee 

Sell & Buy together for £1399 

plus Stamp Duty 

& Land Registry fee 

Call us Today: 01594 562239 

sue.drew@dobbsanddrew.co.uk lisa.dobbs@dobbsanddrew.co.uk 

Blue Rock House, Blue Rock Crescent, Bream, 

Glos, GL15 6LW 

www.dobbsanddrew.co.uk

ADVICE 

13 

Top tips for selling 

your home this summer 

NAEA Propertymark offers advice for sellers putting their property on the market this summer. 

The summer can be a tricky time 

to sell a property, especially if it’s 

a family one, due to the school 

summer holidays. NAEA Propertymark data 

shows that during the summer months the 

housing market tends to cool down, with 

the number of house hunters and properties 

available for sale dropping throughout July 

and August. While getting ready to put 

your home on the market, there are a few 

simple things you can do to maximise the 

saleability of your property. 

Katie Griffin, President, NAEA 

Propertymark says: “If you need to put 

your home on the market during the 

summer, it’s important to understand your target market and who will be 

the most interested in buying your home before you do so. Your local NAEA 

Propertymark estate agent will be able to guide you in the right direction if 

you’re unsure and help you put your home on the market at the right time to 

increase your chances of a speedy sale.” 

NAEA Propertymark’s five top tips for selling your 

home this summer: 

Tidy up the exterior 

First impressions are key and they really impact a buyer’s decision, so it’s 

important to make sure the property looks well maintained and cared for from 

the outside, with windows and walls freshly washed to remove any dirt. For 

example, a front door can say a lot about the rest of your home for buyers 

viewing it for the first time, so a lick of paint or a quick wash down can help 

improve the overall look and feel of your property. 

Neutral décor 

Potential house buyers will have varied 

tastes in décor and when they’re looking 

around your home they have to be able to 

imagine themselves living there. Anything 

too over personalised can be a turn off, 

so keeping colours neutral will make the 

property more appealing. 

Prune your garden 

A well looked after garden can give 

your home the wow-factor, especially 

during the summer months when many 

beautiful flowers and plants are in season. 

For starters, it’s important to make sure your garden is tidied of any litter, the 

lawn is mowed, weeds are removed and overgrown trees are cut back and then 

if you have the time, try potting some bright coloured plants to make the space 

more attractive. 

Kitchen makeover 

Giving your kitchen a quick freshen up can go a long way. By giving the 

cabinets a quick lick of paint, or replacing the doors and handles, the room will 

instantly become more attractive to potential buyers. 

Let air and light in 

Rooms that smell musty are a huge turn off for buyers – it’s important to 

open up windows well in advance of any viewings, particularly those in rooms 

that are rarely used. It’s crucial to maintain a good level of lighting in your 

home to make the space feel inviting - the summer is the best time for natural 

light, so make sure all blinds and curtains are wide open. 

Advertise your property over the Bridge 

At last! The announcement has been made that the price of crossing the Severn Bridges 

will be scrapped all together by the end of 2018. With so many buyers expected to move to Monmouthshire 

in search of a bargain, choose an agent that advertises on both sides of the Severn. 

Archer & Co in Chepstow have been advertising their properties to Bristol-buyers all year. ‘Ever since the 

announcement was made that there would be a change to the tolls we have seen a huge increase in the number of 

buyers heading over the bridge’ explains Carys Vaughan, sales manager at the Chepstow based estate agents. 

‘Now, around one third of our viewers are coming from the other side of the Severn - so we had to adapt our advertising 

to follow suit. We added Bristol Life and Bristol Property Live to our list of publications and they have both been received 

extremely well. When the adverts go out - the phone rings, and we arrange viewings!’. 

Choosing an agent who advertises on both sides of the Severn means that your property will be seen by more would-be 

buyers, which means that you are more likely to achieve the best possible price when selling. 

Archer & Co • 30 High St, Chepstow NP16 5LJ • 01291 626262

14 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


The Priory, Awre, Newnham, Gloucestershire 

Ferrino 01594 811111 www.ferrino.co.uk 

Price 

£850, 000 







The comfortable period residence is a home of character with a story to tell. 

5 

bathroom 

bathroom 

4 2 

bathroom 






Handsome Grade II listed country house set in excess of four acres of rural countryside in a 


unique riverside location having the advantage of a superb outlook over the River Severn. 

NIGHT 

STORAGE 

& RAYBURN 

parking 

parking 

parking 

Once a riverside inn, it catered for the requirements of sailors who ‘tied up’ to wait 

for the tide on their journey to Gloucester. To add romance, the story goes, it caught 

the eye of a clergyman who purchased the house and renamed it ‘The Priory’. The 

accommodation in the house extends to three spacious reception rooms, hall and study, 

kitchen/breakfast room and five bedrooms. 

The outbuilding has been converted into two delightful well appointed, energy efficient 

holiday cottages, a successful garage/covered parking business parking parking 

enterprise 

parking 

with a stable established income 

stream. For anyone interested in a self-sufficient lifestyle, the site is also a registered 

smallholding. This is a rare opportunity to purchase an historic country property in a 

truly stunning location. 

Meet the architect… 

The Close in Llangrove 

We caught up with Mark Powles, Director of RRA Architects 

who worked on The Close with Freeman Homes to find out 

more about the concept behind the design. 

Mark, what’s your aim when designing a home? 

There are two areas really, the house and the home. 

Firstly there is the practical – does the brief require two 

bedrooms? A garage? And this is the house. Then there’s 

the concept, the feel and the personality of the building 

you design to suit the space. Both are equally important 

for the house to become a home. 

How did you apply this to The Close? 

The practical requirements were rather 

straightforward really. It was essential that the properties 

would be executive 4 bedroom homes finished to a 

high standard appropriate for the quality expected of 

a Freeman Home. This included a contemporary feel 

whilst using natural materials in keeping with a village 

environment; a large open plan ground floor leasing 

to outdoor space through high performance bi-folding 

doors. It’s kind of a fusion of comfort and contemporary 

convenience. 

Another key aspect to the whole scheme is the focus 

on low maintenance throughout the property with 

quality details such as colour-through render, pressure 

treated timber cladding and powder-coated aluminium 

windows all requiring virtually zero maintenance. 

Naturally the houses are beautifully appointed 

throughout giving the ‘wow’ factor you expect. 

Is being eco-friendly important in the market place? 

Yes, definitely. Not just the market place, 

environmental issues are also important to both 

Freeman Homes and RRA Architects. That’s why The 

Close properties demonstrate an energy efficiency that 

goes beyond standard building regulations. 

Each property is exceptionally well-insulated and 

has an air-source heat pump to run the heating and hot 

water. Alongside this is a wood burner to provide heat 

and a homely feel for a welcoming ambience. 

Who would the homes at The Close be ideal for? 

They’d suit anyone really but with the large open 

plan living area for entertaining, generous room sizes for 

visitors, easy to manage gardens and the homes being 

low maintenance means the houses at The Close are 

ideal for those looking to downsize for hassle free living. 

For more information on The Close and to 

arrange a viewing please call 01989 770360.

Making estate agency make sense. 

Contact us on 01594 811111 

or theteam@ferrino.co.uk 

47 High Street,Lydney, Gloucs GL 15 5DD 

HIGH STREET, NEWNHAM - 

£750,000 

The Ship Inn is a landmark property situated in the 

popular and historic High Street of Newnham on Severn, 

Gloucestershire. Planning permission has been granted for 

an exciting development. The development is divided to 

either side of the carriage entrance. The left hand side was the 

original Ship Inn. The new development of this side consists 

of; a four bedroomed (two en-suite), two storey house; an 

attached one bedroomed apartment with separate entrance; 

and a detached one bedroomed house. There is a garden 

together with two parking spaces. The right hand side consists 

of a five bedroomed (two en-suite) three storey house; an 

attached two bedroomed, two bathroom, mainly ground floor 

house with a separate entrance, garden and two parking spaces. 

The plans for conversion to the proposed layout are available 

from the Forest of Dean planning website, reference number 

P1262/16/LBC and P1263/16/LBC. This represents a unique 

opportunity to create either a large private residence, or an 

investment to generate a significant revenue stream from long 

term residential or holiday letting. 

HIGH WOOLASTON, LYDNEY - 

£550,000 

Tanglewood is a unique property situated in the peaceful hamlet 

of High Woolaston, a semi-rural yet accessible area of South 

Gloucestershire. The original barn was converted approximately 

seventeen years ago to create a unique and comfortable family 

home. It is extremely well presented inside and outside. A detached 

indoor heated swimming pool with summer room, garaging 

and workshop make Tanglewood a very desirable property. The 

spacious ground floor accommodation extends to three reception 

rooms, kitchen, separate utility room and shower room. In addition 

to the current facilities, the ground floor layout has the potential 

for an independent living arrangement suitable for extended family 

or dependant relative. The first floor offers three spacious double 

bedrooms, the master being en-suite and a family shower room. 

The property is enhanced by well-established landscaped gardens 

and colourful borders of mature shrubs. A large patio provides 

excellent outside entertaining space. There is a dedicated workshop, 

storage room, undercover garaging for two vehicles and ample 

parking space on the drive. A home of character in the heart of 

beautiful rural countryside yet within a short distance of major 

road and rail networks. 

LITTLE DRYBROOK, 

COLEFORD - £515,000 

This lovely country cottage is set in the idyllic 

woodland hamlet of Little Drybrook in the Forest of 

Dean, Gloucestershire. This is a truly peaceful rural 

location with stunning far reaching views over the 

surrounding forest. The original cottage dates back to 

early 1800. It has been extended over time to provide 

the most comfortable family accommodation. This 

includes two reception rooms, conservatory, modern 

equipped kitchen/breakfast room, four bedrooms and 

two bathrooms. The cottage is presented in very good 

order throughout. It rests in well-kept gardens with a 

backdrop of natural woodland. Within the grounds is a 

substantial detached double garage presently in use as 

a studio. There is ample parking space on the drive. A 

beautiful home, inspiring surroundings, a perfect retreat. 

CROOKED END, RUARDEAN - 

£499,950 

This delightful extended cottage is set in approaching four 

acres of garden and paddock in the village of Ruardean, 

Gloucestershire. The property is presented in immaculate 

order both internally and throughout the grounds. 

Included in the package are useful detached outbuildings, 

a fully insulated studio and secure garage/workshop with 

an independent storage room above. The accommodation 

in the house extends to three reception rooms, open plan 

kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, four bedrooms, a family 

bathroom and separate shower. The location of the property 

affords the superb far reaching view in the direction of 

Hereford and the Welsh Mountains, quite breath-taking. 

This is best appreciated from the well-positioned raised 

terrace. There is a dedicated growing area with green houses 

and timber potting shed. The remainder of the ground is 

enclosed pony paddock with a separate vehicular access. An 

ideal family home in a great village location. 

CYRIL HART WAY, COLEFORD 

- £425,000 

This handsome executive style home is situated on an exclusive 

modern development overlooking the golf course on the 

outskirts of Coleford, Gloucestershire. This location, on the 

edge of the Forest of Dean, is surprisingly quiet, has a glorious 

outlook over the fairway and is conveniently situated for town. 

The accommodation is light and airy with well-proportioned 

rooms and stylish contemporary fixtures and fittings. The 

sitting room and dining room both open out onto the terrace, 

the perfect observation spot for the golf. In the kitchen, all 

appliances are included, the fully fitted high gloss units are 

finished with granite work surfaces. The bedrooms number 

five/six in total, they are arranged over two floors with a 

bathroom on each level. The master bedroom is en suite, a 

particular feature of this room being the south facing balcony. 

There is a large tandem garage and further parking space 

on the drive, all enhanced by attractive landscaped gardens. 

The property benefits from a remaining five years NHBC 

warranty. A fabulous family home presented in excellent order 

throughout. The property is offered for sale with ‘No Onward 

Chain’. 

BERRY HILL, COLEFORD - 

£359,500 

This spacious family home is situated in a pleasant and 

peaceful neighbourhood on the outskirts of Coleford town, 

Gloucestershire. It has previously been divided internally to 

create a self-contained annex, an arrangement that could 

easily be reinstated if required. The house also represents an 

ideal opportunity for a Bed and Breakfast business. There is 

plenty of accommodation. This extends to three reception 

rooms including the first floor sitting room, study, two large 

en-suite bedrooms on the ground floor and a further two 

bedrooms and family bathroom on the first floor. There is 

fabulous outside relaxing and entertaining space in the 

sheltered south facing garden. The terrace is a real sun trap 

and welcome shade is provided by the walnut tree. There is 

also a productive vegetable garden. The detached garage has 

an integral dog kennel with secure run. There is space to park 

a caravan or camper van on the drive. A great family home 

in a great location. The property is offered for sale with ‘No 

Onward Chain’. 

ferrino.co.uk

ONLY 3 

REMAINING 

THE CLOSE 

Llangrove 

LUXURY LIVING ON YOUR DOORSTEP 

Each of the 6 executive homes in The Close have beautifully well-appointed and 

planned living spaces creating the ultimate in luxurious rural living for you and your 

family. With well-proportioned private gardens with patio areas designed to bring 

the outside in, these homes allow optimum use of the garden space for living and 

entertaining. 

his award winning development built by local 

developer Freeman Homes presents only six 

exclusive four bedroom homes that enjoy exceptional 

views over the Wye Valley and Welsh Mountains. 

TTucked away down a quiet country lane, the homes at 

Llangrove are finished to the highest quality. When you look 

closely you can see that every detail has been thought of 

and they feature the very latest in energy saving technology. 

Having been designed and fitted out with Daikin air source heat 

pumps they provide a highly efficient and versatile method of 

generating renewable energy. 

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 

Please see website for details 

Quality runs throughout every home and high quality fittings and fixtures have 

been sourced to meet the highest of expectations. High specification kitchens and 

bathrooms, energy saving technology and ample built-in storage are just some of the 

features you can enjoy in this spectacular contemporary home. 

EACH HOME FEATURES 

• 4 large bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, 2 with ensuite bathrooms 

• Generous room sizes with an abundance of storage 

• Underfloor heating to ground floor and all bathrooms 

• Light, airy living space with bi-fold doors to the garden 

• Wood burner in the living room 

• Air source heat pumps 

• NEFF kitchen appliances 

One of these gorgeous homes could be yours 

from only £485,000 

Part Exchange and Help to Buy available 

CONTACT FREEMAN HOMES TODAY FOR MORE 

INFORMATION: 

Tel: 01989 770360 

Email: sales@theclosellangrove.co.uk 

Web: www.theclosellangrove.co.uk 

Scan here 

WALES 

St Weonards 

ENGLAND 

THE CLOSE 

Llangrove 

Monmouth 

Llangrove 

A40 

A4137 

A40 

Symonds Yat 

Ross-on-Wye 

Walford 

Kerne Bridge 

Cinderford 

A40 

Mitcheldean 

A40 

Coleford 

A TOUR OF THE CLOSE 

www.freemantv.co.uk

PROPERTIES 17 

bedroom 


The Cedars, Usk, Monmouthshire 


Price 

£2,950,000 



bedroom 

bedroom 

bathroom 

bathroom 

bathroom 

living room etccentral heating 



garage/covered 


parking 


3 Bed Detached Coach House • Outdoor Swimming Pool & Pool House • Stable Block with 7 Boxes 




Ample Parking • 17 Acres of Parkland with Gazebo overlooking Lake • Tree-lined Driveway 

6 

5 5 

6 Bedroomed Detached House• 5 Reception Rooms • 5 Bathrooms • Snooker Room 

Mains electricity, water and private drainage • LPG gas fired central heating 

Main house council tax band H • EPC Ratings garage/covered parking Dparking 

parking parking 

LPG 

parking 

This fine and beautifully proportioned, 6 bedroomed 

country house has been fully up-graded to extremely 

high standards enjoying an idyllic rural setting on the 

outskirts of the market town of Usk. Set in 17 acres of 

outstanding mature formal parkland with a tree-lined 

driveway. 

It has a lake and the benefit of a well-presented 3 bed 

detached coach house, outdoor swimming pool with 

adjacent pool house, a stable block with 7 boxes and easy 

access to M4, A449, Newport, Cardiff and Bristol. 

Originally dating back to the Victorian era the main 

house has a rendered exterior under pitched tiled roofs 

with inset u-PVC sash windows and French doors. 

Internal features include a solid oak central staircase, 

engineered oak floors to reception hall, dining room and 

kitchen. 

Luxury contemporary bathrooms with polished granite 

tiling and white “Roca” suites throughout. Bespoke, fully 

fitted and serviced modern kitchen with polished granite 

worktops. Bespoke cut glass chandeliers and low voltage 

down-lighters. 

LPG wall mounted boilers provide domestic hot water 

and zoned and timed central heating to radiators 

throughout.

18 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


The Old Workshop, Llangarron, Ross-on-Wye 

Parrys 01989 768484 www.parrys.com 

Price 

£325,000 


Country bungalow with large garden 

Versatile with up to 4 bedrooms 


Would benefit from some enhancement 

3 




bathroom 

bathroom 

1 3 

bathroom 








OIL 

parking 

parking 

parking 

This attractive bungalow, with local stone and contrasting timber clad elevations, forms 

one of small group of residential properties surrounded by glorious open countryside 

about a mile out of the village. 

The bungalow stands on the edge of the group within large gardens and enjoys fine 

distant views. The accommodation is versatile with up to 4 bedrooms, a large lounge/ 

dining room and fitted breakfast kitchen with integrated appliances. Further land is 

available for rent. 


Please note the vendor has a grass airstrip and hangar and there are occasional flights 

to and from the property. Any purchaser wishing to take advantage of the strip and/or 

hanger would be welcome subject to some reasonable regulations. 

bedroom 


Woodlands Cottage, Dancing Green, Herefordshire Price 

Fine & Country 01989 764132 www.fineandcountry.com £399,500 


bathroom 



bathroom 





and comprises a welcoming hall with stone slabbed floor, a lovely wood door lead through to the 

4 

2 2 2 

bathroom 


Woodland Cottage is a delightful four bedroom semi-detached cottage, full of charm and character. 


The cottage is very light and spacious and in extremely good order throughout, 

sitting room with a feature stone exposed chimney breast and an inset woodburning stove. 

OIL 


parking 

The sitting room leads into the well fitted kitchen/ 

breakfast room which has an oil fired cooking range 

which also supplies the central heating and hot water. 

There is a rear lobby with a fitted cloakroom and a rear 

utility room. The Lounge/Dining Room is a spacious 

room with double glazed patio door leading out to the 

garden also an exposed brick chimney breast with an oil 

living flame fire. From the hallway the stairs lead to the 

first floor, the master bedroom has an en-suite shower 

room. There are two further double rooms and a single 

bedroom presently used as a dressing room and a large 

family bath/shower room. There is great outside space 

with a substantial double carport, stone workshop a 

really lovely large stone patio ideal for barbecues with 

a pretty water feature with water fall and pond, lawned 

area with an array of colourful shrubs and trees with a 

gate leading into the woodland, potting shed and raised 

vegetable beds. To the front of the cottage there is a lawn 

with a centre path leading to the front door and lovely 

shrubs and trees surround. 


The nearby town of Ross-on-Wye well known as ‘the 

gateway to the Wye Valley’, is a market town overlooking 

the famous horseshoe bend in the River Wye. The town 

has a good range of shopping, sporting and cultural 

amenities. There are three primary schools and a wellregarded 

comprehensive school. Ross is conveniently 

positioned for commuting with excellent road links and 

being located midway between the cathedral cities of 

Hereford and Gloucester and within about an hours drive 

of Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff and Cheltenham.

twitter.com/parrysproperty 

facebook.com/parrysproperty 

01989 768484 

www.parrys.com 

LEA 

ROSS-ON-WYE 

ROSS-ON-WYE 

Very well presented four bedroom house 

Heart of thriving Herefordshire village 

Double garage, parking, gardens 

EPC rating E 

£395,500 

Period detached family home 

Walking distance of town centre 

Off road parking, carport and gardens 

EPC rating D 

£385,000 

Super detached three double bedroom older style house 

Walking of town and countryside walks 

Parking, garden, planning for garage and utility 

EPC rating C 

£329,000 

LLANGARRON 

Country bungalow with large garden 

Versatile with up to 4 bedrooms 

Would benefit from some enhancement 

EPC rating E 

£325,000 

ThiS BOx 

cOuLD BE SELLiNG 

This Box 

YOuR could hOmE 

Be selling 

01989 768484 

your home 

cONTAcT uS ON 

conTacT us on 

01989 768484 

LLANGROVE 

Detached 3 bedroom dormer bungalow 

Quiet village location 

Private, sunny rear gardens, garage, parking 

EPC rating E 

£319,950 

LLANGROVE 

ROSS-0N-WYE 

WALFORD 

Detached former chapel 

Centre of popular village with views 

Manageable gardens, parking, garage 

EPC rating G 

£295,000 

A handsome older style three bedroom semi-detached house 

Parking spaces to the front and lovely large rear garden 

Quiet no through road, walking of the town centre 

EPC rating E 

£239,950 

An appealing first floor apartment 

Well appointed two bedroom accommodation 

Part of former country house enjoying southerly views 

EPC rating D 

£155,000 

Abergavenny Monmouth Ross-on-Wye Usk London 

Associated Park Lane Office

Chepstow 

Monmouth 

Usk 

Ross-on-Wye 

Abergavenny 

Newport 

Forest of Dean 

LLANGWM - NR USK 

Approached via a long sweeping gravelled driveway sits Ty Gobaith, an outstanding 

individually designed bungalow sitting within beautiful gardens on a plot size of approx 

3/4 of an acre bordered by a stream and just 4 miles from Usk. The property is 

approached via an arched portico giving a Mediterranean feel to the entrance & has 

exposed external stonework. The accommodation is extremely spacious and built to an 

excellent specification & offers ideal family accommodation. Versatile layout with 4 

double bedrooms off an inner hallway, 2 main receps, a large recreation room, a day 

room/snug, well fitted kitchen & utility room. A particular feature is the mature garden 

with attractive terraces. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Usk 01291 672212 £695,000 

BETTWS NEWYDD 

Camp Cottage provides an excellent opportunity to purchase a spacious 

family residence with stunning views and would naturally lend itself to the 

equestrian life style having 3 plus acres of ground with stable block and 

menage. The property occupies a commanding position overlooking open 

countryside with panoramic views towards the mountains of the Skirrid and 

Sugar Loaf. The property is located on the edge of Bettws Newydd being a 

small rural Village in the centre of Monmouthshire which benefits from a local 

pub, church and village hall. EPC Rating: F 

Fine & Country Usk 01291 672212 Offers over £695,000 

Cheltenham 

Bristol 

Cardiff 

London 

KEMPLEY 

A spacious, detached village home in the pleasant village of Kempley, 

surrounded by beautiful countryside. The property offers several generous 

living accommodations with 3 reception rooms, 4 double bedrooms, 1 with 

en-suite, a lovely bright kitchen/breakfast room, utility and cloakroom. Outside 

is a lovely south-westerly facing garden with an array of attractive specimen 

and fruit trees. There is a double garage and good sized parking area. EPC 

rating D. EPC Rating: D 

DANCING GREEN 

A delightful four bedroom semi-detached cottage, full of charm and character, 

with two reception rooms and a kitchen/breakfast room. The whole has been 

well maintained and is extremely well presented. There is a double carport 

and a useful stone workshop, lovely gardens surround the property with a 

large patio area and water feature, there is a personal gate into the woodlands. 

Peaceful rural setting beside woodland. EPC rating F. EPC Rating: 

Fine & Country Ross-on-Wye 01989 764132 £490,000 

Fine & Country Ross-on-Wye 01989 764132 £399,500

Regionally 

32 offices 

throughout 

the south west 

5 MILES CHEPSTOW 

An outstanding country cottage in an Idyllic unspoilt rural setting and yet so 

accessible, just 5 miles from Chepstow and the Severn Bridge. Recently 

carefully extended and beautifully refurbished the versatile accommodation has 

enormous character with many exposed beams and old stone walls. There are 

two large main reception rooms, separate dining room, breakfast kitchen and 

utility. Upstairs are 5 bedrooms (3 en-suite including a superb guest suite). 

Outside are lovely landscaped gardens, orchard/small paddock, stables, garage 

& outbuildings. In all about 1.25 acres. No onward chain. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Chepstow 01291 629799 Guide price £699,950 

TIDENHAM 

A superb opportunity to acquire an older period detached three storey family residence 

situated in this superb location with magnificent views across the Severn Estuary. Whilst 

the main dwelling has four bedrooms, there is also an attached three bedroom annexe 

and cellar/games/music suite which would make this property not only a superb large 

family home but also ideal for multi-generational occupation. Standing in well laid out 

and mature gardens with the benefit of two decking areas to the rear, taking full 

advantage of the Estuary views. To one side is an enclosed walled garden making an 

attractive secure and safe environment for children and pets alike. EPC Rating: F 

Fine & Country Chepstow 01291 629799 £1,050,000 

Nationally 

225 offices across 

Great Britain 

Internationally 

Plus 75 

offices globally 

5000 

professional 

associates all 

around the world 

STAUNTON 

Most attractive character Grade II Listed detached property including Granary, dating back to early 

C17. Situated in the heart of the pretty village of Staunton. Tucked away on the lower road which 

then links to the semi rural country lane leading down to the village of Newland. The most unique 

property enjoys a stunning rear garden, the total grounds extend to circa quarter of an acre, 

predominantly laid to lawn with extensive well stocked planted beds and borders creating a most 

tranquil setting which any garden enthusiast would appreciate. Charming internal accommodation 

arranged over three floors with features including exposed beams, wooden doors and floorboards, 

some traditional cast-iron radiators and vaulted ceilings to second floor displaying some of the 

original roof timber framework. Leaded light stone-mullion windows and both fireplaces with a 

woodburning stove. EPC Rating: Listed 

UPPER LYDBROOK 

Occupying a slightly elevated setting appreciating distant views of the 

surrounding area, which include the Church and woodland. The property is 

beautifully presented and offers a wealth of charm and character. Original 

features blended with modern designed comforts provide an appealing living 

arrangement. Traditional natural materials are exposed to enhance the 

atmosphere, with wooden doors, floors and ceiling beams, stonework and 

ornate fireplaces. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Monmouth 01600 775930 £545,000 

Fine & Country Monmouth 01600 775930 £329,000

3 3 1 D 

5 2 2 C 

5 3 2 D 

3 2 1 E 

CAERWENT 

Stone front detached 3 bed barn conversion 

Edge of popular village location 

Ample parking & double garage 

Archer & Co Chepstow 01291 62 62 62 

£580,000 

UNDY 

Extended very well presented 5 bed family home 

Cul-de-sac, edge of village location 

Attractive landscaped gardens 


Guide price £420,000 

CHEPSTOW - THE BAYFIELDS 

Three storey five bedroomed town house 

Double length garage & ample parking 

Very popular location with easy access to M48 Motorway 


£399,950 

ST BRIAVELS 

Mature 3 bed detached village cottage 

Well presented and of some character 

Pretty gardens and easy all amenities 


£340,000 

3 1 2 F 

2 2 1 C 

4 3 3 E 

6 4 3 C 

NEAR SHIRENEWTON 

Victorian detached cottage of character 

Elevated country setting - wonderful views 

Beautifully refurbished - good gardens 


Guide price £439,999 

CHEPSTOW 

Stylish First Floor Apartment 

Generously Proportioned, Very Well Presented 

Conveniently Located for Town 


£249,950 

WYE VALLEY - LLANDOGO 

Family house in riverside village 

Spacious - 3 reception, 4 bedrooms 

Lovely mature garden - superb views 


£375,000 

CAERWENT 

Very well presented 6 bed detached modern family home 

Located on edge of popular village 

Ample driveway parking & double garage 


£465,000 

What is your 

property worth? 

3 1 2 F 

ALVINGTON 

Detached Cottage 

Large pleasant gardens 

Edge of very popular village location 


£245,000 

2 2 2 E 

HEWELSFIELD 

Well presented 2 bed bungalow 

Large gardens, spectacular views 

Extensive parking plus garage 


£399,500 

Find out in 

less than 

60 seconds 

4 2 2 D 

NEAR AYLBURTON 

Versatile 3/4 bed modern dormer house 

Lovely semi rural setting with pretty aspect 

Large mature gardens & South West aspect 


£375,000 

4 1 2 C 

PENPERLLENI 

Four Bedroom Detached Family Property 

Full Double Glazing & Gas Central Heating 

Well Fitted Kitchen 

Archer & Co Usk 01291 67 22 12 

£260,000 

Instant Valuations at 

archerandco.com 

Associated Park Lane office

PROPERTIES 23 

15 Church Road, Chepstow NP16 5HP 

Archer & Co 01291 626262 www.archerandco.com 

Price 

£380,000 

4 


3 1 


bathroom 

bathroom 

Grade II listed terraced 4/5 bed house • Small courtyard garden • Edge of Town location 


GAS 



This Grade II listed older period and unique four/five bedroomed terraced house, which 

was once two cottages but has been converted into one larger property, is located on 

the outskirts of Chepstow Town Centre with amenities including restaurants, pubs, 

primary and senior schools, leisure centres, road, bus and rail links. 


On the ground floor the accommodation comprises entrance hall, dining room, sitting 


room, kitchen, utility room, 


cloakroom, study/bedroom 5 and there garage/covered is also parking access to parking 

a cellar. On the first floor there are four bedrooms and bathroom. The property also 

benefits from an attractive covered walled rear courtyard garden. 



bedroom 


Plas Newydd, Usk, Monmouthshire NP15 1RZ Price 

Fine and Country 01291 672212 www.fineandcountry.com £1,150,000 

Located in most private and sheltered gardens extending to almost two acres in the lee 

of the grounds of Usk Castle yet within just a few hundred yards of the centre of the 

historic former market town of Usk, Plas Newydd ranks unquestionably among the best 

of the very few properties of this calibre found in the area. 

The house was completed in about 1836. It has had only three owners prior to purchase 

by the present Vendors in 1984. Built in neo Tudor style the Grade ll Listed house has 

many interesting architectural features both inside and out including the oriel windows 

on the north and south elevations with almost all windows adorned by drip moulds. 


9 



bathroom 

bathroom 


bathroom 








the rear is a noteworthy feature and internal attractions include handsome fireplaces to 


Blessed with such spacious accommodation the house not only lends itself to occupation 

parking 


5 3 2 

Magnificent Grade ll Listed early Victorian residence with gardens of almost 2 acres in the centre of Usk. 

The fine veranda extending from the front of the house around the north side and across 

the principal reception rooms which benefit from delightful aspects overlooking the 

gardens. 

by a large family but has also proven well suited to occupation by two generations 

sharing as evidenced by the present description of the accommodation where it has 

served the Vendors well. 

GAS 

parking

24 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


13 Orchid Meadow, Pwllmeyric, Chepstow 

Moon & Co 01291 629292 www.thinkmoon.co.uk 

Price 

£439,950 





kitchen/breakfast/family area plus separate utility room and generous sunny and private rear gardens. 




No onward chain, viewing highly recommended. 

4 

bathroom 

bathroom 


bathroom 




3 3 1 

Spacious and well presented detached property in sought after location with generous open plan 

GAS 


parking 

The property comprises to the ground floor good sized reception hall giving access to 

the modern contemporary kitchen with integrated appliances, open to breakfast/family 

area with utility room off and personal door to garage, double doors to rear elevation. 

Also from reception hall ground floor w.c., dining room, living room and study. To 

the first floor master bedroom with en-suite shower room, guest bedrooms 2, 3, 4 and 

modern family bathroom. Outside driveway parking for two vehicles plus integral 

garage. Lawned garden garage/covered to the parking front parkingand parking generous parking sunny and private predominantly laid 

to lawn gardens to the rear. Situated within this popular residential area close to the 

village of Mathern with excellent gastro pub, the market town of Chepstow is also close 

at hand with its attendant range of facilities. 

bedroom 


Parc Seymour, Penhow 

pa black 01291 630876 www.pablack.co.uk 

Price 

£415,000 





Large driveway and parking for several vehicles 

3 


bathroom 

bathroom 

3 2 

bathroom 




GAS 




Beautiful setting lust outside Wentwood Forest Reserve • Stunning grounds with attractive gardens 


Immaculately presented throughout • Scope to extend with previous planning permission 

Three large bedrooms • Spacious bathroom with separate shower • Close to major road links and cities 

parking 

parking 

parking 

A delightful dormer style bungalow set in beautiful idyllic 

gardens with views across Penhow to the front and to the 

Wentwood Forest Reserve area to the rear. 

Set in the very popular village of Parc Seymour this ideal 

family home offers village living but with great access 

links to major roads and cities such as Bristol, Cardiff and 

Newport. It also has the added benefit of being within 

close proximity to nearby towns such as Chepstow and 

Caldicot which host a range of amenities and services 

including banks, national and independent relaters, 

restaurants and supermarkets. 

This immaculately presented home offers three spacious 

double bedrooms, large lounge and separate dining room 

with additional lounge area and a kitchen/diner. 

The plot consists of beautifully landscaped gardens with 

a large lawn to the front with a driveway for several 

vehicles. The lawned area continues around the side 

giving access to a patio area with small pond and further 


leading up to a large attractive summerhouse. 

To the other side are two spacious garden sheds both with 

electric. The garden is enclosed with mature shrubbery 

and an array of attractive plants and flowers. 

In the past plans were passed (now expired) to extend 

to the side making room for an additional reception or 

larger kitchen and additional bedroom with en-suite. 

There is evident scope to extend or convert so this 

beautiful house has a lot to offer.

Sales & Lettings Agent 

Open 7 days per week 

No Sale - No Fee 

Free Valuations 

Chepstow Office Tel: 01291 629292 

HILLBARN VIEW, PORTSKEWETT 

• IMMACULATELY PRESENTED TWO BEDROOM PROPERTY 

• MODERN KITCHEN WITH SUN ROOM/DINING ROOM OFF 

• LIVING ROOM • MODERN BATHROOM 

• GARAGE AND PARKING 

• GARDENS FRONT AND REAR • E.E.R. – C 

£174,950 

MOOR COTTAGE, CATBROOK 

• CHARACTERFUL DETACHED STONE BUILT COTTAGE • FOUR DOU- 

BLE BEDROOMS (MASTER EN-SUITE) • FIVE RECEPTION ROOMS 

• KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM PLUS UTILITY ROOM AND GROUND 

FLOOR W.C. • PRIVATE PARKING AREA AND ATTACHED GARAGE 

PLUS SEPARATE PARKING AREA WITH GARAGE/STORE SHED 

• FRONT AND REAR GARDENS COMPLETE WITH STONE BUILT 

OUTBUILDING • E.E.R. – E 

£635,000 

WEDGEWOOD DRIVE, PORTSKEWETT 

• DETACHED THREE BEDROOM DORMER BUNGALOW 

• LIVING ROOM • OPEN PLAN L-SHAPED KITCHEN/DINING 

ROOM • LEVEL GARDENS PLUS PARKING TO FRONT AND 

SINGLE GARAGE • WELL PRESENTED THROUGHOUT 

• VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 

£254,950 

RIVER VIEW, CHEPSTOW 

• WELL PRESENTED THREE BEDROOM PROPERTY 

• MODERN KITCHEN INSTALLED IN 2016 

• MODERN BATHROOM • TWO RECEPTION ROOMS 

• LANDSCAPED GARDENS • TWO ALLOCATED PARKING 

SPACES • E.E.R. – C 

£234,950 

HUNTFIELD ROAD, CHEPSTOW 

• SUPERBLY PRESENTED DETACHED PROPERTY 

• MASTER BEDROOM WITH CONTEMPORARY EN-SUITE SHOWER 

ROOM • TWO FURTHER DOUBLE BEDROOMS 

• TWO RECEPTION ROOMS PLUS KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM WITH 

SEPARATE UTILITY ROOM • SHOWER ROOM PLUS GROUND FLOOR 

W.C. • PRIVATE GARDENS TO REAR • DRIVEWAY PARKING 

offers over £340,000 

GLOUCESTER ROAD, TUTSHILL 

• ATTRACTIVE SEMI DETACHED VICTORIAN VILLA 

• THREE SPACIOUS RECEPTION ROOMS 

• UPDATED KITCHEN • THREE DOUBLE BEDROOMS 

• STYLISH BATHROOM + TWO SEPARATE CLOAKROOM/WC’S 

• DRIVEWAY PARKING & GARAGE & ATTRACTIVE GARDENS 

£324,950 

GREEN STREET, CHEPSTOW 

• SPACIOUS AND WELL PRESENTED MID-TERRACED PROPERTY 

• TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS 

• SPLIT-LEVEL LIVING ROOM PLUS SITTING ROOM 

• KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM • SUN ROOM WITH UTILITY AREA OFF 

• GARDENS FRONT AND REAR 

• OWNED PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS • NO ONWARD CHAIN 

£214,950 

RESTWAY WALL, CHEPSTOW 

• ATTRACTIVE FIRST FLOOR RETIREMENT APARTMENT 

• SOUGHT AFTER DEVELOPMENT CLOSE TO TOWN CENTRE 

• RARE OPPORTUNITY 

• TASTEFULLY UPDATED 

• VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED • E.E.R. – C 

£129,950 

Magor/Undy Area 

Tel: 01633 745396 

Chepstow Lettings Office 

Tel: 01291 624881 

DUNCASTLE FARM, ALVINGTON 

• STONE BUILT GRADE II LISTED FARMHOUSE 

• 4 BEDROOMS 

• 2 RECEPTION ROOMS 

• AVAILABLE NOW 

• EPC RATING D 

£1400.00 PCM 

BEECH HOUSE, TINTERN 

• DETACHED PROPERTY SITUATED IN BEAUTIFUL WYE VALLEY 


• TERRACED GARDEN LEADING TO WOODS 


• EPC RATING F 

£1250.00 PCM 

39 LAUREL PARK, ST ARVANS 

• DETACHED FAMILY HOME 


• PRIME SOUGHT AFTER RESIDENTIAL LOCATION 

• NEWLY FITTED KITCHEN 


£1200.00 PCM 

71 PRIMROSE WAY, LYDNEY 

• 3 BEDRROM FAMILY HOME 

• 2 RECEPTION ROOMS 

• OFF ROAD PARKING FOR 2 CARS 

• AVAILABLE 31ST JULY 2017 


£750.00 PCM 

FLAT 1, 12 MOOR STREET, CHEPSTOW 

• SPACIOUS MAISONETTE 

• 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS 

• TOWN CENTRE LOCATION 

• AVAILABLE 4TH SEPTEMBER 2017 


£625.00 PCM 

ALMA FLAT, TUTSHILL 

• FIRST FLOOR FLAT 


• SPACIOUS SEPARATE LIVING ROOM 


• EPC RATING F 

£600.00 PCM 

FLAT 4, THE GROVE, CALDICOT 

• 1ST FLOOR FLAT 

• 2 BEDROOMS, 1 DOUBLE, 1 SINGLE 

• CLOSE TO THE AMENITIES OF CALDICOT TOWN CENTRE 



£550.00 PCM 

THE COACH HOUSE COTTAGE, ST BRIAVELS 

• CHARACTER COTTAGE 

• QUIET RURAL VILLAGE LOCATION 


• AVAILABLE 31ST JULY 2017 

• EPC RATING E 

£525.00 PCM 

www.thinkmoon.co.uk

This is a computer generated image, details may vary. 

BEAUTIFUL HOMES IN A 

SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION 

LLANGATTOCK COURT Dixton Road, Monmouth 

• New build 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, all with allocated parking 

• Energy efficient apartments providing low maintenance and excellent views of 

surrounding countryside 

• Within walking distance to town centre with its shops, cafés, restaurants and 

Savoy theatre 

• Located a few minutes walk from local leisure centre 

• 1 & 2 bedroom apartments from £180,000 

Call our Sales Advisor today to learn more Tel: 01600 712772 

redcliffehomes.co.uk

PROPERTIES 27 

Help to buy a first class home 

in a first class location 

In a world where too many new homes look the same inside and out, 

Redcliffe Homes buck the trend with their beautiful and imaginative design-led 

homes on their Llangattock Court development in Monmouth. 

Homebuyers have a rare opportunity to buy a beautiful and affordable new 

home in the popular town of Monmouth, with its thriving town centre 

complete with shops, restaurants, cafés and local theatre within a short walk 

of the development. 

Llangattock Court also offers good access to local commercial centres such as 

Cardiff and Bristol. The apartments at Llangattock Court have been designed to be 

bright and airy, with light flooding through large windows. On beautiful sunny days, 

you can stroll out on to either a balcony or ground floor terrace as you bring the 

outside in and watch the world go by. The first and second floor apartments offer 

unique views of Monmouth town, The Kymin and the glorious Wye Valley. 

With the aid of the Government’s Help to Buy Wales scheme, it is possible to move 

into one of the remaining apartments with a deposit of just 5%. Under the scheme, the 

Government will lend up to 20 percent of the property through a five-year interestfree 

equity loan. The purchaser has to place a five percent deposit and fund the 

remaining cost of the property with a mortgage, giving them 100% ownership of their 

home. 

Accommodation includes communal entrance hall, private entrance hall with 

storage cupboard, living / dining / kitchen with integrated appliances, master bedroom 

with en suite, bedroom two and bathroom. Ready to move into, these apartments 

include oak veneered internal doors, Sky+ outlets to the living rooms, polished 

chrome sockets to the living areas and hallway, integrated Bosch appliances in the 

kitchen, Porcelanosa tiling and shaver sockets to bathrooms. Externally there is 

allocated parking in a gated car park and a communal bike store. 

bedroom 


12 Llangattock Court, Monmouth, NP25 3PL 


Price 

£192,000 




A low maintenance, two double bedroom first floor apartment. 

Help to Buy Available - this stunning apartment could be yours for less than you think! 



call us to speak to one of our mortgage consultants to find out more about the scheme. 

2 

bathroom 

bathroom 

2 2 

bathroom 








GAS 

parking 

parking 

parking 



bedroom 


14 Llangattock Court, Monmouth, NP25 3PL 


Price 

£210,000 



Penthouse apartment in the heart of Monmouth town centre, two double bedrooms, master with en suite 


shower room and open plan living / dining / kitchen with full height windows and sliding door on to the balcony. 


2 



bathroom 

bathroom 

2 2 

bathroom 




GAS 




parking 

parking

Sales - Monmouth 




New 

New 

New 

New 

Price 

Wyesham £145,000 

Offered with no onward chain, this two bedroom home in 

need of some cosmetic attention has a large dining kitchen, 

a decent sized south facing garden and off road parking. Ideal 

investment or first time buy! 

Monmouth £85,000 

A rare gem! This ground floor retirement apartment within 

walking distance of the town centre has its own outside patio 

and is beautiful presented throughout, with a modern kitchen 

and bathroom. No onward chain! 

Greytree £275,000 

Finished to a high standard throughout and offered with no 

onward chain, this immaculate three / four bedroom dormer 

bungalow has a living room with log burner, kitchen with 

breakfast bar and garage with additional storage. 

Redbrook £180,000 

Offered with no onward chain, this Grade II listed property 

briefly consists of a lounge with feature woodburning stove, 

fitted kitchen with space for a dining table and utility area, 

three bedrooms and upstairs bathroom. 

New 

Price 


New 

Price 


New 

Price 


New 

Price 


The Narth £775,000 

Approached via a private lane, this six double bedroom family 

home sits on a plot of approximately 3/4 of an acre in a rural 

village location. Built just 12 years ago there is a large dining 

kitchen, four reception rooms and double garage. 

Monmouth £305,000 

Although on the outskirts of an estate, this detached property 

offers privacy and is not overlooked and has accommodation to 

include two reception rooms, breakfast kitchen, utility, WC and 

four bedrooms, with pleasant front and rear gardens. 

Whitchurch £250,000 

This brand new link detached bungalow has an impressive 

open plan living / dining / kitchen and is finished to a high 

specification with underfloor heating, oak doors and luxury 

bathrooms. 

Symonds Yat £645,000 

This lovingly refurbished and extended cottage is spacious yet 

cosy which includes a large dining kitchen, living room with 

fireplace and a partially glazed garden room to the ground 

floor and four bedrooms, two en suite to the first floor. 

Sales - Chepstow 

Viewing 

Advised 


New 


Village 

Life 


Four 

Bedrooms 

Parc Seymour, Penhow, Caldicot £415,000 

Beautiful Setting Just Outside Wentwood Forest Reserve. Stunning 

Grounds with attractive Gardens. Immaculately Presented Throughout. 

Scope to Extend with Previous Planning Permission. Large Driveway 

and Parking for Several Vehicles. Three Large Bedrooms. Spacious 

Bathroom with Separate Shower. Close to Major Road Links and Cities. 

Barnetts Wood, Chepstow £484,950 

Beautifully Presented Detached Property. Large Corner Plot. 

Four Double Bedrooms. Sought After Residential Area Within 

Walking. Distance of Chepstow Town Centre. Elevated Position 

with Views. Double Garage. Flexible Living Space. Enclosed 

Sunny Garden. 

Grove Cottage, Llangwm, Usk £339,000 

Delightful Detached Cottage. Immaculately presented 

throughout. New UPVC double glazing. Semi-rural idyllic 

setting. Enclosed front garden with parking. New combination 

boiler. Stunning Views. Log Burner. 

Monument Close, Portskewett £325,000 

Three Storey Town House. Detached with Garage/Driveway. 

Spacious rooms. 4 Bedrooms. Ground floor WC. Open Plan 

Kitchen Diner. Private Courtyard. South Facing Garden. 


Must 

be Seen 


SSTC 

Must 

View 



New 

Edmond Loacrd Court, Cheptow £550,00 

An EXECUTIVE Large Spacious Family Home. Double Garage 

with Parking for Several Cars. Great Access to all Major Link 

Roads. Five Bedrooms. Set in Private Cul De Sac. Stunning 

Outlook. Still under NHBC Warranty. Nearby Park. Close to both 

The Dell & St Mary’s Primary Schools. 

Roundbush Crescent, Caerwent £215,000 

End terraced Home in Sought After Location. Three Bedrooms. 

Immaculately Presented Throughout. Two Allocated Parking 

Spaces. Corner Plot. Enclosed Rear Garden. Kitchen Diner. 

Fedw Wood, Chepstow £299,950 

Three Bedroom Detached Family Home. Space to Extend. 

Catchment to Highly Regarded Local Schools. Walking Distance 

to Chepstow Town Centre. Large Driveway including Garage. 

Sought After Area. Enclosed Rear Garden. 

The Martins, Tutshill £199,950 

OPEN HOUSE Monday 31st July 4-6pm *PLEASE CALL TO REGISTER*. 

Large Private Landscaped Garden. Immaculately Presented End- 

Terrace Property. Driveway with Parking for Several Vehicles. 

Walking Distance of Chepstow Town Centre. Within Catchment of 

Highly Regarded Schools. Great Commuter Links. Ideal First Time Buy.

LIVING 

29 

Classy conservatories 

Transform stuffy glazed extensions 

with Didier & Dandelion. 

Claudia 

Forget unpleasant chunky ratton and relentlessly beige upholstery, the conservatory now has 

the power to be the most fashion-forward room in the house. 

Didier & Dandelion offer a range of gorgeous pre-loved furniture (sometimes tickled-up, 

sometimes left to speak for itself), tactile home-décor items and accessories, and a few lovely gifty 

bits. Our vintage curiosities help to offer our little shop a timeless appeal, adding to the calming 

and welcoming atmosphere. 

Get The Look 

All from Didier & Dandelion 

Wire Tree Light, £5 Rabbits, from £44 Baskets, from £30 Vintage frames, from £54 Cushions & Throws, from £30 

Didier & Dandelion • 72 Monnow Street, Monmouth, Monmouthshire, NP25 3EN 

Tel: 01600 711500 • www.didieranddandelion.co.uk

30 THROUGH THE KEYHOLE 

Making a dream home in 

heavenly Herefordshire 

Sharon Chilcott 

Sharon Chilcott meets a couple who are realising their vision of an idyllic country cottage lifestyle… 

It’s still a work in progress, but marketing and media 

planning professional Moira Davidson and her 

schoolteacher husband David Warren are slowly 

but surely turning a former two-up, two-down 1850’s 

cottage into their dream home. 

They have been carefully and methodically 

unpicking some of the alterations and additions made 

to the cottage over the years and are busy turning it 

into a comfortable, contemporary-styled place in which 

to both live and work. Not least of their visionary 

improvements is the most recent – a beautifully crafted 

oak-framed extension which has transformed the 

appearance of the building both inside and out. 

To create this magnificent addition to their living 

space, they chose the local oak-frame builder and joiner 

who has been working with them over the years as 

they’ve set about improving a property which they first 

saw and fell in love with in the summer of 2011. 

“We moved here 

from a little village in 

Somerset,” explains 

Moira. “David’s parents 

and brother live in 

Herefordshire and my 

in-laws looked at a lot 

of places for us first. We 

had been looking for 

about a year when they 

came to view this. They 

weren’t sure so I came 

with them one Saturday. 

It was pouring with rain 

as we drove here but as 

we arrived, the sun came 

out. I knew it was the 

right place. I rang David 

at work – he was at an 

independent school - and I got him out of a lesson and 

said “I have found the house we are going to buy!” He 

came here on the Sunday and by the Monday morning 

our offer had been accepted. I had worked in an estate 

agent’s office, so I did the conveyancing and within 

about three weeks we had exchanged!” 

One of the reasons for the couple’s move was that 

they wanted more land. Set in a stretch of peaceful, 

pastoral countryside at Ivington, near Leominster, this 

property came complete with four acres. “We couldn’t 

afford anything as big as this in Somerset,” says Moira, 

adding that it ended up being more than they were 

looking for – they aspired to about an acre. 

So she came up with a solution and now one of the 

fields is dedicated to their successful glamping business. 

“People ask me how we came to do glamping – it 

seemed to just happen! We live in a beautiful corner of 

the county and we always wanted to do something with 

any land we were lucky enough to have, in order to 

provide some income” 

Since Moira and David moved into the property 

in December 2011, they have set about a long list of 

improvements. Early on these included installing a 

new wood burning stove in the living room, where 

David took out the 1970’s brick surround and rebuilt 

the fireplace and made a new hearth. They also sanded 

down and re-varnished the original parquet floor and 

redecorated the entire room in warming colours. The 

dining room now also boasts a new wood burning stove 

and the couple have had an Aga installed in the yet-tobe 

completed kitchen, which is to be David’s project 

during the school summer holidays. “He is going to 

build a top for the island and a new dining table all out 

of scaffolding boards,” says Moira. 

In 2015 the couple employed Kevin Whittall of 

Hereford Oak Buildings to install a new, bespoke 

wooden staircase. Since then he has also re-plastered 

the ceilings and walls and enhanced the appearance of 

the cottage with traditional ledged and planked internal 

doors with black Suffolk latches. The couple also had

31 

him fit a sturdy and stylish new 

front door to the property. So, when 

it came to their latest and most 

ambitious project, to replace their 

plastic-framed garden room with a 

new oak framed extension, then he 

was the obvious choice. 

They have been delighted with 

the result, which provides a light 

and airy morning room, with large 

windows looking out over the 

countryside. This room has been 

made open plan to the kitchen by 

knocking down a wall and putting 

in two new oak support beams. It 

now accommodates the couple’s 

kitchen table and David has built 

a sofa along one wall, made from 

wooden pallets, which, scattered 

with cushions and throws, makes 

the ideal place to sit and gaze at the 

garden. 

Above the morning room there is 

also David’s new office, accessed by a spiral staircase found on eBay. Stylish scavengers 

both, David and Moira have also found and upcycled many a piece of furniture. These 

include the pine kitchen table and an old church pew which David painted and which 

now sits in the space under the new wooden staircase in the living room. 

The improvements to this property have also continued upstairs, where there are 

now two new bathrooms, serving the three bedrooms. Meanwhile, outside, David 

has also been busy, building a beautifully crafted garden shed alongside the existing 

outbuildings. And so it goes on…. 

Favourite things 

In winter, the couple love 

to snuggle up in front of 

the wood burner in the 

cosy living room. 

Get the Look 

Hereford Oak Buildings were responsible for all the new joinery, including 

the bespoke staircase. Hereford Oak Buildings, Bainstree Farm, Monkland, 

Leominster 01568 720266 www.herefordoakbuildings.co.uk 

The white, all-weather garden lounge set on the patio is from family-run 

interiors brand Camperdown Lane. The cushions, wool throw, star doormat 

and tray are also from the company’s range. Camperdown Lane, 

18 St Owen Street, Hereford 01432 379409 www.camperdownlane.com 

This solid oak door stop beside the reclaimed church pew is from a range which 

Hereford Oak Buildings make and sell at local shows. The dark grey sheepskin, 

pompom cushion, raffia shopping basket and LED lights are from Camperdown 

Lane’s large selection of stylish accessories, homewares and gifts. 

Get the Lifestyle 

Share in the couple’s idyllic surroundings and enjoy up-market camping in this glorious 

part of Herefordshire knowing you’ll have the added luxuries of a smart, heated shower 

room, separate loo and a small kitchen. www.herefordshireglamping.com 

Presiding over the kitchen is this impressive, iconic Aga from Twyford Cookers 

of Leominster, Units C3-C5 Marches Trade Park, Brunel Road, Leominster 

Enterprise Park 01568 611124 www.twyford-cookers.com

The Rise of the 

New Townhouse 

We look at the rise in popularity of the modern townhouse and take a tour of the stunning 

examples at the Severn Quay development in Chepstow. 

Recent figures show people are increasingly 

opting for the buzz and convenience of 

urban life which is one reason why the 

townhouse is becoming more a more 

popular option than other property types. 

Price growth has also been most robust in the 

townhouse market, where prices have risen by 

an average of 27% in the past 10 years. 

With this in mind, we take a look at the new 

townhouses at ‘Severn Quay’, situated on the 

banks of the River Wye in Chepstow, to see 

the benefits they have to offer. 

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS 

As you walk around the show home you are 

immediately struck by the quality of the build 

and attention to the smallest of details. The 

sleek and stylish designer kitchen is finished 

with stone work surfaces. The appliances are 

from Neff and include a multifunction oven 

and microwave, fully integrated ‘A’ rated 

dishwasher, fridge and freezer, as well as an 

integrated ‘A’ rated washer-dryer. 

Natural light floods in through the bi-folding 

garden doors into the large open plan area 

that provides space to dine as well as relax as 

a family. From the walnut stairs to the exquisite 

luxury bathrooms and en-suites, no stone has 

been left unturned when it comes to the interior 

design and high quality specification of the 

fixtures and fittings in these properties. 

SPACE, FORM AND FUNCTION 

Every room is spacious and is complemented by 

an abundance of storage, including generous 

and discreet cupboards. Each home comes 

complete with an automation system, allowing 

you to control the heating, lighting and much 

more from the touch of a button. Thermally 

efficient, zone controlled, underfloor heating,

a sophisticated security system and a built in 

TV in select bathrooms are just a few of the 

many impressive features. 

The three story townhouses have the added 

convenience of two family bathrooms in 

addition to the master en-suite and a second 

reception room which could be used as a fifth 

bedroom or cinema room! Every property also 

benefits from it’s own allocated parking space. 

RIGHT ON THE DOORSTEP 

Set within an area of outstanding natural 

beauty, Chepstow has always been defined 

by its scenery. The countryside, combined 

with its colourful and active community, make 

it a desirable place to live. Together with 

an abundance of local amenities just a few 

minutes walking distance, Cribbs Causeway, a 

large retail park and The Mall, with over 130 

shops, is just 17 minutes away. 

GREAT CONNECTIONS 

With the recent announcement that the Severn 

Bridge toll is to be scrapped, and an easy 

commute to many major cities, Severn Quay 

couldn’t be better placed. 

Chepstow conveniently lies on the railway line 

between Gloucester and Cardiff with Bristol 

Parkway being just 24 minutes by car. Cabot 

Circus is a simple 27 minute journey while 

central London is easily reached in only 1 hour, 

20 minutes by train from Bristol Parkway. 

So if you desire to live in an exceptional 

contemporary home surrounded by breathtaking 

scenery, a vibrant and exciting town on your 

doorstep and the added convenience of easy 

shopping and travel, the townhouses at Severn 

Quay certainly have a lot to offer. 

Please contact the 7Q sales team for more 

information or to arrange a viewing. 

01291 418056 

info@severnquay.co.uk 

www.severnquay.co.uk

34 NEWS & PROPERTIES 

Severn tolls abolished 

by end of 2018 

Tolls on the Severn bridges between Wales and 

England will be scrapped by the end of 2018, 

the UK government has announced. 

Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said it would be a major boost to the economy. 

About 25 million journeys are made across the two bridges annually. 

Those using the bridge daily could save about £1,400 a year. 

A study commissioned by the Welsh Government suggested the removal of tolls 

would boost the Welsh economy by £100m. 

Mr Cairns said the decision to abolish the tolls “sends a powerful message to 

businesses, commuters and tourists alike that the UK government is committed to 

strengthening the Welsh economy.” 

He said: “I want to ensure that visitors and investors know what Wales has to offer 

socially, culturally and economically. 

“Most importantly, I want the world to know how accessible we are to business.” 

Peter Mills, Director of the Severn Quay development in Chepstow, said: “In recent 

months we have had many enquiries and reservations from Bristolians who realise that 

living in Chepstow is a real alternative to Bristol. They are able to own an incredible 

contemporary home for much less than in Bristol while having stunning countryside 

on the doorstep and easy access to an abundance of quality shops and amenities. 

“Commuting is also very easy. Travelling from Chepstow to both Cabot Circus and 

Bristol Parkway is a great deal faster than from other commuter belt towns that are 

much closer. Bristol Parkway is just 24 minutes by car. Cabot Circus is a simple 27 

minute journey while central London is easily reached in only 1 hour, 20 minutes by 

train from Bristol Parkway. The scrapping of the crossing tolls adds another plus. 

“We have also seen an increase in interest from investors. With a shortage of 

rental properties in Chepstow, they realise they are able to purchase a property of 

outstanding quality in an area of increasing popularity with above average returns.” 

bedroom 


Manor Farm, Crick, Monmouthshire 

Fine & Country 01291 629799 www.fineandcountry.com 

Price 

£650,000 





renovated to the highest possible standards. 


was the original Court House with a Welsh Chapel garage/covered parking to parking one parking side. 

parking 

5 

bathroom 

bathroom 



bathroom 




parking 

parking 


3 4 2 

Fine & Country are proud to offer for sale this excellent opportunity to purchase a beautiful 


converted old stone barn which has been tastefully and sympathetically 

Set in a small enclave of superior detached properties, we understand the property 

GAS 

parking 

Many of the original and unique features have been 

maintained with exposed stone walls and exposed timber 

work including roof beams, etc. 

The property offers contemporary modern living yet 

retaining an elegant rural cottage style ambience. 

Ideally suited for family occupation, the Court Barn 

has the benefit of three spacious reception rooms, two 

conservatories, a luxury fitted kitchen and ground floor 

cloakroom with four/five bedrooms arranged on the first 

and second floors. 

The second floor suite, whilst currently used as a games/ 

entertainment suite, could easily be adapted for bedroom 

accommodation or office accommodation subject to the 

requirements of the incoming purchaser. 

To the first floor lie two en-suite bath/shower rooms 

plus family wet room and to the second floor lies an 

en-suite shower room and it should be noted that the 

present owners have installed electric pumps thus giving 

excellent water pressure to the drenching heads of the 

showers. The standard of joinery is to the highest quality 

with the majority of the internal doors being of solid oak. 

The property is situated in a convenient position, on 

the edge of the hamlet of Crick, giving easy access to 

Chepstow and excellent road links to the M4 an dM5.

ADVICE 

35 

Remortgages and product transfers 

Why and when is a good time to consider swapping mortgage providers or 

asking your existing mortgage lender for a new deal.... 

Your existing mortgage deal is due to expire 

Most mortgage deals only last for between 2 and 5 years on a fixed rate, tracker 

or discount mortgage 

When it comes to an end, your lender will put you on its standard variable rate 

(SVR). It’s usually higher than your old interest rate and higher than most best buys 

available. If so, you need to consider a remortgage. I always recommend starting the 

process 3 months before your existing deal ends. 

At time of publication the SVR for Halifax is 3.74%, Nationwide 3.74%, Natwest 

3.75% and Santander 4.49%. 

You would like a cheaper rate 

If you are tied into an initial deal then you will usually have to pay an early 

repayment charge/penalty which can be as much as 2-5% of your outstanding 

mortgage balance. The monthly savings would need to be huge for anyone to 

consider doing this. Its important that you do your sums first. 

If your existing deal has ended there are no early repayment charges payable then 

this is defintiley the time to consider moving your mortgage or asking your existing 

lender for a new deal. 

The value of your home has increased 

The value of your house may have gone up significantly since you took out 

your mortgage. As a result you may find that the increased equity that you now 

have allows you to get a better deal as you have more security to offer the mortgage 

lender, and therefore eligible for much lower rates. Again, you need to do your sums 

but it’s definitely worth considering. 

You want to borrow more 

You may want to borrow more money for home 

improvements for example and your existing lender says no. 

They may say yes but the terms they offer are not favourable. 

The new lender will always ask you what the extra money 

is for. A mortgage company is happy to lend for most legal 

purposes except paying a tax bill or ploughing money into a 

business. 

You may have to provide evidence of what the extra funds 

are to be used for so be prepared for this. 

Martin Newell, 

Blestium Financial 

How can Blestium Financial Services help you? 

We will conduct a free mortgage review for you. 

We will show you where savings can be made or where the chepest place to raise 

extra money may be. 

We will also help you change mortgage products with your existing mortgage 

company if this is your preference. 

If you have large penalties or fees to pay we will make a note of when these no 

longer apply and contact you in plenty of time to take advantage of any great deals 

available without the fear of you having to fork out out huge costs 

Blestium Financial Services do not charge any fees for any of the above services. 

Please call us on 01600 775393 or 07525616987 to book an appointment at our 

office or your home. Evening and weekend appointments available. 

mortgages, life insurance and finance specialists 

You’re worried about interest rates going up 

You may be concerned that rates will increase soon so protecting yourself against 

this becomes a priority. There are some great long term fixed deals from 5 to 10 

years available. 

You want to overpay & your lender won’t let you 

Perhaps you’ve had a pay rise or maybe you’ve inherited some money. You now 

want to pay extra but your current deal won’t let you or it will only let you make a 

small overpayment. 

A remortgage will allow you to reduce the loan size and potentially get a cheaper 

rate as a result. But watch out for any early repayment charges or exit fees you face, 

and compare this to how much you’d save with the new, lower mortgage. 

You want to switch from interest-only to 

repayment mortgage 

Many people took out interest only mortgages in the past. This is almost unheard 

of these days for a residential mortgage as rules have changed. The only way to 

guarantee that a mortgage is paid off in full at the end of the mortgage term is to 

have a repayment mortgage. 

4 Re Mortgage 

4 Overseas Mortgages 

4 Buy To Let Mortgage 

4 Let To Buy 

4 Help To Buy 

Top Floor, The Market Tavern, 26 Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT 

E: blestium@hotmail.com 

Tel: 01600 775393 

4 Equity Release 

4 Protection 

4 Asset Finance 

4 No broker fees 

Professional Impartial Confidential 

www.blestium.com

36 MARKETS 

All about that base rate 

When it comes to the mortgage market, the summer of 2017 looks likely to be all about the base rate. 

Whether it’s all about a ‘base rate increase’ 

however remains to be seen but just 

a couple of weeks ago that likelihood 

appeared closer than it had been for some time – 

perhaps more of a prospect than at any time in the last 

10 years; which just so happens to be the last time the 

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised rates. 

Since July 2007 BBR has only ever gone in one 

direction – down – and now we appear to be at a point 

where, to quote Yazz and her Plastic Population, ‘the 

only way is up’. But, let’s all be honest, we’ve been in 

this situation for a while, and prior to last August when 

rates were cut again by 25 basis points, there was a 

feeling that rates could go no lower then. 

Cue the vote to leave the EU and the MPC took the 

decision that a further cut was necessary in order to 

restore some confidence and provide some economic 

impetus. What may be surprising however is that, a year 

on, we still have Base Rate at 0.25% given that many 

market commentators and economists have been busy 

suggesting the MPC moved too quickly to cut rates and, 

given the perceived resilience of the UK economy since 

then, a move back up to 0.5% might be justified. 

This does seem a rather odd tack to take given 

that the quick cut by the MPC, and the stability 

provided by the Bank of England during that period 

post-referendum, probably did much to shore up the 

economy at a time of great uncertainty. Indeed, we 

might all have been glad there was a level of leadership 

coming from the Bank and, in particular, Mark Carney, 

because this did not appear to be forthcoming from any 

political sources. 

In that regard, we do not have much of a changed 

situation, in fact we have less political certainty at a 

time when Brexit negotiations have begun and the next 

two years and beyond appear to show a very fragile 

situation. So, why the suggestion that this summer is all 

about the base rate? Well, the reasons lie in the last MPC 

meeting in June which, as I’m sure you know, finished 

5-3 in terms of the vote to keep BBR at 0.25%. 

This was the closest vote for some time and, you 

will not need to be a mathematician to realise that one 

extra vote in favour of a rise would put the ball firmly 

in Mark Carney’s court as to what happens next. Carney 

himself has appeared not to be in favour of any rise 

yet – citing the potential negative impacts this could 

have on businesses and borrowers, many of whom may 

already be struggling to pay their monthly debts even 

with rates this low. 

The last thing the MPC would want to do is hike 

rates back up – even by 25 basis points – and kickstart 

an economic slowdown that could be exacerbated 

and turned into a recession by the Brexit effect. That 

would not be strong management of the economy at this 

pivotal time. And yet...prior to just days ago, inflation 

appeared to be moving up quite quickly and one of 

the primary aims of the MPC is to keep it below its 2% 

target – increasing rates would be one way of doing this. 

That argument though appears to have softened with 

the latest inflation figures showing a drop to 2.6% in 

June, down from 2.9% the month previously. 

The anticipation however is that inflation will not 

move below 2% anytime soon plus there is also the 

argument being made that, with unsecured borrowing 

growing fairly steadily, the MPC needs to send a 

message to consumers/borrowers that rates at this level 

are not ‘normal’, that debt levels should be kept in 

check and that rates will have to rise eventually. Some 

are suggesting that a small increase now to send this 

message is far better than waiting until later and having 

to increase by greater amounts and/or at a faster pace. 

It’s often argued that quick, multiple rises could do 

greater damage than beginning now and drawing them 

out over a longer period. 

With all these conflicting opinions and arguments, 

you can see why there’ll be a great deal of interest in 

August’s MPC meeting and vote. Just recently Deputy 

Governor, Ben Broadbent, suggested he was not 

ready to increase rates saying there were too many 

“imponderables” about the UK economy to make 

such a decision. When you have members of the MPC 

admitting that there’s a great deal of unknowns around 

at present, and any move away from the status quo 

could make the situation worse, then we might all have 

cause to worry a little. 

John Phillips, propertyreporter.co.uk 

Property guardianship on the rise 

Recent government figures have found empty property numbers are at their highest level in 20 years, 

with 1.4 million ‘spare’ homes lying vacant; having been left empty for at least six months. 

The UK is facing a housing crisis. The government 

must ensure 30,000 new homes are built every 

year to cope with rocketing demand, fuelled by 

rising immigration, an aging population and a lifestyle 

where people are increasingly living alone. 

Property company, Sellhousefast.uk was interested in 

this subject, and spoke to a few industry experts on the 

topic. 

Mark Scott, a specialist in residential property at law 

firm Blake Morgan, commented:“Many homeowners 

might say that ‘a man’s home is his castle’ and the owner 

is free to leave their property vacant if they desire. 

However, there are a large number of empty properties 

in the UK and many would argue they could be put to 

better use. One possible way would be to encourage 

owners of vacant properties to make more use of them. 

This could be achieved by offering a tax incentive, 

perhaps for letting the property out, or making it 

available for use by local authorities or housing 

associations in emergency situations. 

Another incentive would be a refund of stamp duty 

land tax, in part, if the property is sold within a certain 

timescale. This might discourage owners from simply 

sitting on properties and waiting for the value to increase.” 

Property Guardianship is a security solution for 

landlords who have vacant buildings and are working 

out what to do with them. Rather than paying out for 

expensive security, property owners pass their building 

over to a property guardianship company, who then 

let it out to keyworkers, charity workers and public 

sector workers. This allows tenants to live in interesting, 

centrally located properties at a much lower price. 

Is Property Guardianship a solution for empty 

homes, and ultimately the housing crisis? 

Tim Lowe, founder of Lowe Guardians comments: 

“Property Guardianship has had a lot of bad press. 

Five to ten years ago, it was very ‘alternative’. But it is 

now becoming increasingly popular among working 

professionals of all ages; people who want interesting, well 

located accommodation with a strong community feel. 

Demand is growing exponentially. The biggest 

challenge is to keep up with demand; it’s becoming 

increasingly high and supply must match that. Property 

guardianship might not solve the housing crisis, but it 

can provide sustainable housing which sits comfortably 

in-between social housing and luxury high-end.” 

Legal difficulties 

Although a fun and social way of living, property 

guardianship is still a new and unregulated industry 

and flexible living can be precarious. At present, all PG’s 

are required to sign a licensee agreement with the PG 

company. But legally, guardians do not count as tenants 

and are not protected as such. 

What’s more, some PG properties exist in a very poor 

state, without hot water, and in extremely unsanitary 

conditions. The industry must develop a Code of 

Practise to establish standards and regulate the industry. 

Luckily, change is beginning to happen. 

Tim at Lowe Guardians, adds “At present, Property 

Guardianship is not very well regulated. Currently, we 

are forming an association with four other guardian 

companies to protect and regulate the industry; 

this includes writing up a uniform set of criteria for 

guardianship organisations to follow.”

INTERNATIONAL 

37 

Property sellers holiday checklist 

A getaway with the family may be just what you need if you have been trying to sell your home lately. 

This shouldn’t get in the way of selling your home if you remember that along with the ‘tickets, money, passport’ 

checklist, you don’t forget to add your estate agent to any pre-packing preparations. 

In all the excitement of a long-awaited break, it may 

be easy to overlook a few important tasks as holiday 

mode takes over - and may even hinder an eventual 

sale. 

Su Snaith, Head of Estate Agency for Harrison 

Murray and the Nottingham Estate Agency, has this 

to say: “When the weather is nice, people are more 

inclined to view houses, and a property always looks 

better on a sunny day. So when sellers go away, they 

should ensure that their house is still looking its best. 

While vendors enjoy a well-earned break, their estate 

agent will continue to work hard on their behalf. 

There are a few steps they can take to ensure that 

there are no missed opportunities when it comes to 

viewings in their absence. 

Unfortunately, it is a situation estate agents experience 

time and time again - the seller goes on holiday and 

forgets to leave a key with the agent for them to show 

potential buyers the property when they are away. 

This is easily resolved. If you are planning a break 

this summer, we would advise letting your agent know, 

and put together a simple checklist so that you don’t 

miss out on that potential sale.” 

Don’t forget to: 

• Inform your estate agent that you are going away - 

and leave them a key. There is nothing worse than 

having to turn away interested viewers because the 

agent has no access to your home. 

• Ensure the house is clean and tidy before you leave. 

Place air fresheners around the property to compensate 

for having to keep windows closed and locked. 

• Check for anything that might go off and smell 

- bread, fruit in a bowl and even flowers in a vase - 

and throw them away. 

• Empty household rubbish bins, make sure all work 

surfaces are clean and tidy, clear out magazine racks, 

ensure that draining boards and sinks are clear of 

washing up and the dishwasher is clear of dirty 

crockery. 

• Cut the lawn prior to your departure and, if 

possible, arrange for someone to water your garden 

if the weather gets too warm. 

• Ask a neighbour to pull your bins back from the 

kerb to a suitable place once emptied if refuse 

collection is due while you are away. 

• Ensure that, along with the key, you give your estate 

agent the code to your property’s alarm. 

• Make sure your agent also has a contact number in 

case they need to call you about that all-important 

offer - even if you are sunning yourself abroad. 

Warren Lewis, propertyreporter.co.uk 

The UK’s top 10 property 

investment holiday hotspots 

Where is the best UK holiday destination for property investors? 

New research has been carried out by comparison site, finder.com/uk, to find 

out the answer by analysing the yields for holiday destinations based on 

property sales and rent return figures. 

The study found that Liverpool offers the best value for property investment, after 

the maritime city ranked recorded the highest investment yield of 6.62%. 

Second on the list is Glasgow, with the Isle of Wight, Jersey, and Keswick completing 

the top five list of most desirable holiday destinations for property investors. 

The analysis found that the most popular UK holiday destination, London, drops 

to 7th place with regards to return on investment. 

Similarly, despite being the second most popular destination for holidaymakers, 

Edinburgh drops six places when investment value is factored in, while Bath remains 

at the bottom of both lists. 

Jon Ostler, CEO of finder UK, said: “When investing in property, it can be easy to 

assume that the most popular locations – in this case, London and Edinburgh – will 

offer the highest returns. However, our analysis reveals that by taking some time to 

compare locations and shop around, investing in slightly less-obvious locations may 

actually work out better for you financially in the long run. 

“With the ranking based on destinations voted most popular by travellers, it’s likely 

that you’ll secure tenants in these hotspots in little time, regardless of which location 

you choose. 

“If you are looking to invest, make sure you take some time to inspect and 

investigate. Determining overall value is beneficial, however, if the property requires 

renovation for example, the money you could save will go towards those fixes that 

tenants will expect to be completed. Photos can often be misleading, so it’s important 

that you see the property in the flesh first.” 

Thanks to Propertyinvestortoday.co.uk 

UK’s Top 10 holiday destinations 

ranked by best investment value 

Best Top UK Average Average 

Investment Holiday Destination Monthly Sale Yield 

Value Destination Rent Price 

1 5 Liverpool £675 £122,283 6.62% 

2 8 Glasgow £610 £116,022 6.31% 

3 9 Isle of Wight £997 £198,865 6.02% 

4 3 Jersey £798 £159,900 5.99% 

5 6 Keswick £675 £145,982 5.55% 

6 4 Windermere £675 £150,556 5.38% 

7 1 London £1,546 £471,742 3.93% 

8 2 Edinburgh £610 £227,597 3.22% 

9 7 York £619 £241,042 3.08% 

10 10 Bath £798 £333,930 2.87% 

Source: finder.com, GOV.UK, gov.je, TripAdvisor, HomeLet

38 HOME IMPROVEMENTS 

Four Great tips for rural 

planning permission success 

Obtaining planning permission for your new home in the country can seem a nightmare, 

but it needn’t be. Here are some practical tips by custom home build expert, architect 

Garry Thomas, that will help you achieve your grand design dream. 

Tip 1 - Right Location 

If you’re planning an open countryside development, 

you need to find out if there are any transport links 

nearby. This will be important to demonstrate that your 

site is a ‘sustainable’ location. If you are near a public 

transport network your scheme is likely to win approval 

– even though it is outside a settlement boundary. 

Tip 2 - Look up what’s getting 

approved 

Recent applications are a good source for 

information, as they help demonstrate what the council 

is happy to support, and what technical reports you 

need to help get your application approved. What is 

‘appropriate’ development does vary, particularly when 

the Ward Councilor gets behind your proposal. Getting 

his or her support can help the planners interpret planning 

policy more positively and is often why applications 

that appear against policy gain planning approval. 

Tip 3 - Engage the right expert 

It’s important to present your application well and 

provide Planning Officers with the reports they need 

to ensure your application is acceptable in planning 

terms. These reports can seem expensive, however the 

application is less likely to stall and is more likely to 

win approval. Being sure to comply with ecology 

legislation is important too or you could end up with a 

fine up to £5000. 

Tip 4 - Talk to your neighbours 

If your scheme causes disturbance to neighbours, 

it will attract criticism and negative comment – avoid 

this. You really should do all you can to bring your 

neighbours on board. Sitting down with your neighbour 

over a bottle of wine and discussing your needs and 

your development aims works wonders. 

There’s a useful report on our website that provides 

you with all you need to know about how to get 

planning permission on a difficult site for further 

reading. 

Herefordshire Architect, Garry Thomas, is in the top 

25 all time best Grand Designs architects, and secures 

planning permissions for custom build homes on difficult 

open countryside locations. 

If you’d like to find out more about the schemes 

Garry has designed his office can be contacted via 

www.thomasstudio.co.uk 

critchcraft 

WALL AND FLOOR TILES 

Call our showroom 

01594 833966 

Is it time to change your garage door for something much smarter? 

Is your security a high priority? Maybe ease of access is important to you? 

We could have just what you’re looking for. Why not arrange a no obligation visit 

to our new showroom in Coleford to view the different styles, colours and finishes 

available from Hörmann, a true promise of quality. 

You won’t find high pressure sales, you will find a warm welcome and plenty of 

information. With our decades of experience, we will answer your questions and 

offer advice so you can be sure your next garage door will be a reassuring purchase. 

We sell an extensive range of stunning bathroom, 

kitchen, wall and floor tiles to suit your home renovation needs. 

With samples available and loads of end of lines clearance prices. 

We offer extensive product knowledge at our vast showroom. 

Showroom open daily from 9am to 5pm 

01291 626588 

Bulwark Ind Est, Chepstow NP16 5QZ 

www.deangaragedoors.co.uk/showroom

MONMOUTHSHIRE 

CONSERVATORY COMPANY 

CONSERVATORIES . ORANGERIES . UPVC & ALUMINIUM WINDOWS 

SECONDARY GLAZING . DOORS . GREENHOUSES . GARDEN BUILDINGS 

We would like to take this 

opportunity to share some of our 

recent work with you. 

These Aluminium doors and 

windows [above & left] look superb 

on the sun bathed terrace of The 

Beaufort in Raglan – blending 

beautifully amidst the outdoor 

furniture, sun parasols and potted 

olive trees. 

To the right, this large Aluminium 

veranda is a marvelous example of 

how to create the perfect outdoor 

space to suit anyone fond of indoor/ 

outdoor living. Boasting streamline 

design with an elegant feel, we 

think this veranda is a fantastic 

addition to this home and garden. 

Want to see more of our recent 

work? Follow us on Facebook! 

MONMOUTHSHIRE CONSERVATORY COMPANY 

Pengethley Garden Centre 

Peterstow 

Ross-on-Wye 

Herefordshire 

HR9 6LL 

“Thrilled with our 

beautiful veranda. 

Efficient, friendly staff. 

We couldn’t be happier 

with the outcome.” 

Mr & Mrs Parsons 

Tel: 01989 730 551 _ Fax: 01989 730 596 

info@monmouthshireconservatorycompany.co.uk 

www.monmouthshireconservatorycompany.co.uk

CALL: 01600 711680 

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