Property Drop Issue 13

#THEPROPERTYDROP 

1-14 OCTOBER 2017 

THEPROPERTYDROP.CO.UK 

ISSUE 13 

FREE COPY 

MONMOUTHSHIRE | SOUTH HEREFORDSHIRE | WEST GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

10 

14 

THE RIGHT TIME 

TO REMORTGAGE 

OFF GRID 

LIVING 

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

2 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 

How to tell if an area has a 

good Community Spirit 

Being involved in the community can bring a sense of belonging, fill your social calendar, 

and make it easy to find friends. 

Look for a local magazine 

When moving to a new house, it’s important to consider what the community spirit 

will be like in the new town, village, or borough. How can you find out about the 

community before you move there? 

Check social media 

Steve Thompson from Thomas Morris says: “Facebook and Twitter are fantastic sources of 

information about a community. Search the name of the village, town or area and you will find 

numerous community groups operating locally. 

“Checking the group’s feed and events to see how 

active and how well supported the group is, what events 

are happening and how you can get involved. All of this 

information will help provide a feel for the community 

spirit in the area.” 

Monnow Voice, Ross Voice and Chepstow & Forest Voice is a perfect example of great 

community spirit. These towns are all based in the Wye Valley and there is a huge amount to offer 

including both primary and secondary schooling and a great variety of shops, restaurants and 

cafés. The magazines are also a great resource to find local traders. 

THE PROPERTY DROP ROUNDUP 

Page 

7 Page 

11 

Page 

15 

Building the Dream 

Osbaston plot of land available for 

offers in excess of £150,000. Monmouth 

Property Bureau have a self build 

opportunity in the popular area of 

Monmouth, Osbaston. It’s on the 

market with planning permissions. The 

plans reference number is on page 7 

and by visiting the Monmouthshire 

County Council website, and going to 

the planning page you can view the 

application and all the details. 

New Name - 

Same Friendly Faces 

Archers of Usk complete re branding and 

the well known Parrys family look fondly 

to the future with exciting plans for the 

months ahead. The Usk office start the 

ball rolling with a late night opening on a 

Thursday evening to assist those unable 

to attend the office during traditional 

working hours this Autumn. 

Harding Evans 

Wyn Williams joins us this issue to 

answer questions around protecting 

deposits, deeds, and fees. As the head of 

Residential Property Mr Williams and the 

Harding Evans team specialise in buying 

and selling property, with fixed-fee rates 

and availability to service readers from 

their headquarters in Newport.

heating syste 

3 

Check the local newspaper 

“These are great sources of community information, as newspapers include adverts for 

upcoming events and stories on recent events,” says Steve Thompson from Thomas Morris. 

“Papers and magazines can often be obtained at local shops, community centres or the local 

winter 

library.” 

with Ca 

Go to libraries and community centres 

“Visiting local community centres, council offices, sports clubs, church halls, cafés, and local 

shops will help provide a sense of the community,” says Steve Thompson from Thomas Morris. 

“Many of these will have notice boards giving information on local community groups and 

events. They may have staff who know the area, and even live in it, who will often be happy to 

provide information.” 

oiler 

tion 

This is a great way to find out about the area before making an offer on a property. It’s even something to do after going to a viewing. 

Here in the Wye Valley, Ross, Monmouth and Chepstow have great libraries and Monmouth and Chepstow offer a Community Hub. They 

all provide information on what is on and when. There are also children’s activities and the Council hub will give information from planning, 

building control and housing. 

Talk to people who live nearby 

It may sound obvious, but it’s important 

Capsel 

to get out in the area and talk to the locals. 

If they are happy to stop and help a stranger, it’s a sign that the community is open, 

friendly and trusting. 

boiler cover 

Phil Smith from Roscoe Rogers & Knight suggests asking questions of your local 

Get in touch with your local estate agent 

agent when looking at properties to buy. 

“Once you have finished your viewings, or maybe even before you have booked a 

viewing, call into our office and speak to me or one of the team. As an independent 

estate agent, we have all lived and worked in the area for a good number of years. We 

love our town and all that it has to offer, we know the area well and we love being 

involved with our local community”. 

Landlords sa 

certificat 

Sourced from the Guild Property Professionals 

50 

Page 

18 

£15Page 

38 

per month 

£55 

Gas & heating services designed to suit you 

Get your 

Safe 

gas 

Systems 

and heating system 

As the Autumn nights draw in, Capsel 

offer some fantastic rates for gas and 

and ready for winter with Cap 

heating services, checks and installations. 

Capsel also complete safety 

@capsel.co.uk • www.ca 

certificates for landlords. 

Rock Road Cottage 

Marketed by Fine and Country in 

Chepstow is an immaculate rural home 

with exquisite views of the Usk Vale 

and Welsh mountains. The home 

boasts all sorts of dream features 

including an all weather manege, 

paddock, 4 acres of land, a cinema 

room, five bedrooms and oak beams 

and luxury fittings throughout. 

If you’ve not used 

Capsel One-off before boiler give 

them a service call for more 

information on their 

range of services. 

A reliable, available 

and professional £55service 

at local prices. 

bedroom 

New boiler 

bathroom 

installation 

£1,450 

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 

Capsel 

boiler cover 

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 £15for omissions or errors. The 

inclusion of an advertiser per in month this paper is not necessarily a 

garage/covered parking 

bedroom 

Number of 

bedrooms 

bedroom 

living room etc 

Number bathroom of 

bathroom 

bathroom 


central heating 

recommendation. 

©The Property Drop 2017 


bedroom 



reception 

rooms 

living room 

central 

etc 

heating 



Number of 

bathrooms 





parking 

parking 

ELECTRIC 

Method of 

central 

heating 

Covered 

garage 

parking 

parking 

Parking 

space 

Landlords safe 

certificate 

£55

4 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Linton Hall, Gorsley, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire Price 

RRK 01600 772929 www.roscoerogersandknight.co.uk £1,160,000 

7 3 5 

bedroom bedroom living living room room etc etc 

bathroom 

bedroom bedroom living room living room etccentral heating 

bathroom 

garage/covered parking parking 

is constructed in an attractive mix of local sandstone and red brick. A handsome front porch with Doric columns 

central central heating heating 

bathroom bathroom 


leads into a spacious entrance hallway with an outstanding central sweeping staircase. 

bathroom 

OIL 




This very elegant seven bedroomed country house is set on four floors; it was beautifully built in 1888 and 

parking 

The house been well maintained and retains its many 

original features including the full height, sashed 

bay windows, ornate coved ceilings and fireplaces, 

original panelled doors, moulded joinery and polished 

floorboards. From the top floor there is access out to a 

unique roof terrace with exceptional views from the road 

there is an impressive automated gated entrance and tree 

lined driveway accessing its 8 acres of mature, private 

grounds and mature landscaped gardens together with 

fenced paddocks, attractive woodland, an outdoor large 

swimming pool and all weather tennis court. 

There is also a two bedroomed, detached, self contained 

cottage as well as a range of extensive and very useful 

outbuildings including an orangery and a stable complex. 

The house and grounds enjoy excellent levels of privacy 

and there is a fully monitored security system with 

cameras and alarm system. 

garage/covered parking parking parking parking 

Located within easy reach of Ross on Wye and the 

renowned schools at Monmouth and just a short distance 

from the M50 and other major road networks it is 

absolutely ideal for commuters. 

bedroom 


Lower Grove, Newcastle, Monmouth 

RRK 01600 772929 www.roscoerogersandknight.co.uk 

5 

bedroom bedroom 

bathroom 

3 3 

living room living room etccentral heating 

Price 

£980,000 



bathroom 



This elegant, five bedroomed former farmhouse as 

bathroom 

well as a substantial stone barn, a two 

bedroomed coach-house, workshops and outbuildings all enjoy this elevated and very private, 

rural location that provides outstanding views South across open countryside towards Monmouth. 



This characteristic farmhouse is set on two floors with a wine cellar has been tastefully 


garage/covered parking parking remodeled 

retaining many original features. 

To the front of the house is a swimming pool with paved surround and the mature, level private 

grounds consist of mature level gardens and a paddock garage/covered parking parking parking parking 

all totaling approximately 6 acres. All the 

buildings are set around an impressive central courtyard and the barn and workshops are suitable 

for conversion subject to obtaining the necessary permissions being obtained. The hamlet of 

Newcastle is located within easy reach of Monmouth Town Centre and the renowned schools as 

well as the major road networks for those needing to commute. 

OIL

THE TUMP 

PENALLT, MONMOUTH 

£845,000 

TREGATE WARREN COTTAGE 

LLANROTHAL, MONMOUTH £835,000 

E 

E 

4 4 3 2 6 2 

Located high on the outskirts of the popular village of Penallt, in an 

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty yet within easy reach of 

Monmouth, Chepstow and major road links, this extended and 

remodelled 4 bed character stone cottage sits in 5.7 acres of gardens 

and fenced paddocks with fine countryside views. Spacious 

self-contained attached 1 bed annexe, substantial detached double 

garage, ample parking, luxury 1 bed log cabin, studio, covered heated 

swimming pool, useful outbuildings, a chicken run and a stream fed 

pond. 

For those wanting ultimate privacy and be in the stunning Monnow 

Valley but have easy access to the town centre, the schools and the 

major road networks then this 6 bedroomed cottage with stabling 

and garaging set in 7.5 acres could well fit the bill. Situated at the end 

of its meandering driveway it has an idyllic South facing aspect and 

an impressive detached stable block and double and single garages 

and spacious one bedroomed holiday apartment over. The 

pastureland is level with fenced paddocks water fed and the property 

is a registered small-holding. 

GLAN-YR-AFON, MONMOUTH £415,000 

WOODCOTE, GLEWSTONE, 

HEREFORDSHIRE 

£535,000 80 HEREFORD ROAD, MONMOUTH £575,000 

C 

E 

D 

Located in a quiet elevated position in 

Osbaston within walking distance of the 

excellent schools this well presented 

modern detached four bedroom family 

home provides spacious, airy 

accommodation with far reaching southerly 

views, a mature, very private garden, 

integral double garage and ample parking. 

No upper chain. 

This spacious & beautifully presented 4 bed, 

3 reception family home is located in 

Glewstone between Monmouth and Ross-on 

-Wye with easy access to the M50 and 

major road links. Well-built and tastefully 

extended it has beautifully landscaped, well 

stocked level gardens, a summer house & an 

office/ studio. Ample off-road parking 

accesses an open fronted double garage 

and an integral garage. 

This elegant detached four bedroom family 

home occupies an elevated position on the 

very sought after North side of town ideally 

located for those needing access to the 

renowned schools. Set back from the road it 

benefits from off road parking, a single 

garage and a large rear garden with sun 

terrace enjoying extensive views across the 

Wye Valley and the Kymin. 

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

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

Monmouth & London offices

Sales: 01600 719184 

Lettings: 01600 719183 

ROCKFIELD ESTATE, MONMOUTH £339,950 

OLD QUARTER, MONMOUTH £369,950 

• 4 Double Bedrooms 

• Lounge 

• Dining Room 

• Kitchen/Diner 

• Large Family Room 

• 2 Bathrooms 

• Gardens 

• EPC C 

• Driveway 

• 3 Double Bedrooms 

• Lounge 

• Conservatory 

• Kitchen/Breakfast 

Room 

• Bathroom 

• En Suite Shower 

• Gardens 

• 2 Car Parking. 

• EPC B 

VILLAGE CENTRE, TRELLECH £400,000 

OLD QUARTER, MONMOUTH £329,000 

• 4 Bedrooms 

• 27ft Drawing Room 

• Kitchen/Breakfast 

Room 


• Small Study/ 

Bedroom 5 

• Bathroom 

• Separate WC 

• Grade ll Listed 

• 2 Acre Paddocks. 

• Outstanding Decor 


• Kitchen 

• Lounge/Diner 

• Bathroom 

• Shower/Cloakroom 

• Roof Terrace 

• Enclosed Store Area 

• EPC E 

REDBROOK ROAD, MONMOUTH £365,000 

TOWN CENTRE, MONMOUTH £320,000 

• Detached Bungalow 

• Secluded location 


• 3 Bathrooms 

• Sitting room 

• Dining room 

• Enclosed Gardens 

• Gas CH 

• EPC E 


• Lounge 


• Kitchen 

• Bathroom Ensuite 

• Family Shower 

Room 

• Cloakroom 

• Garage 

• Parking 

monmouthpropertybureau.co.uk 

The Market Tavern, Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT

PROPERTIES 7 

bedroom 


Osbaston, Monmouth 

Monmouth Property Bureau 01600 719184 

www.monmouthpropertybureau.co.uk 

Offers in excess 

of £150,000 

Self build may not be everybody’s cup of tea but for those with an urge to do more than 

put a lick of paint on the walls or install a new kitchen, we may have something right 

up your street. Monmouth Property Bureau is delighted to offer a building plot with 

permission to build a three bedroom detached family home. The site is in the Osbaston 

Building The Dream 


3 

living living room room etc etc 


area of Monmouth, this is a much central central heating sought heating after area with well regarded schools, both 



state and independent, plus Monmouth Town centre shops, theatres and restaurants all 



bathroom 

2 2 

bathroom 

bathroom 





parking 

within 1 & 1/4 mile walking distance.To view the details please visit Monmouthshire 

planning applications for 41 Duchess Road, Application Number DC/2016/00327. 

GAS 

monmouth 

PROPERTY BUREAU 

Your local sales and 

lettings specialist 

Sales: 01600 719184 

Lettings: 01600 719183 

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 

£795 PCM 

26 Wyefield Court, Monmouth 

Smart 3 bed mid terraced house within walking 

distance of town, enclosed garden, parking, gas 

CH EPC C. Agency fees apply 

£625 PCM 

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. 

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 

16 Courtfield Close, Monmouth 

Well presented 2 bed semi detached in popular 

cul de sac location, good sized sitting room, 

smart kitchen, garden. EPC D Agency Fees 

Apply 

£595 PCM 

The Market Tavern, Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT 


17 Monnow Keep, Monmouth 

Well presented 1st floor 1 bed apartment with 

secure entry in convenient location close to the 

centre of town. EPC D Agency Fees Apply 

£550 PCM 

Monmouth Property Bureau 

on 01600 719183 

or visit us at 

The Market Tavern, 

Agincourt Square, Monmouth 


* Terms & Conditions Apply

Sales & Lettings Agent 

Open 7 days per week 

No Sale - No Fee 

Free Valuations 

Chepstow Office Tel: 01291 629292 

GREEN COTTAGE, SHIRENEWTON 

• CHARMING EXTENDED DETACHED COTTAGE 

• ELEVATED POSITION WITH STUNNING VIEWS 

• THREE/FOUR BEDROOMS, MASTER WITH EN-SUITE SHOWER ROOM 

• TWO/THREE RECEPTION ROOMS 

• MODERN KITCHEN INSTALLED IN 2015 PLUS SEPARATE UTILITY 

ROOM • E.E.R – D 

£449,950 

GRANGE PARK, ST ARVANS 

• SUPERB DETACHED FAMILY HOUSE 

• FIVE BEDROOMS TWO WITH EN-SUITE FACILITIES 

• THREE RECEPTION ROOMS PLUS STUDY 

• SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH UTILITY ROOM 

• LARGE DOUBLE GARAGE 

£599,950 

SEVERN VIEW, CAERWENT 

• GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT 

• ONE BEDROOM 

• OPEN PLAN LIVING/KITCHEN AREA 

• ALLOCATED PARKING 

• NO ONWARD CHAIN • E.E.R – D 

£95,950 

THE BELFRY, SEDBURY 

• MID-TERRACED MEWS HOUSE 

• THREE BEDROOMS, MASTER WITH EN-SUITE 

• SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM 

• KITCHEN/DINING ROOM 

• OVER 55’S ONLY • E.E.R – D 

£289,950 

REES MARY, TUTSHILL 

• IMMACULATELY PRESENTED DETACHED BAY-FRONTED 

• THREE BEDROOMS 

• SUPERB OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/DINING ROOM 

• UTILITY AND GROUND FLOOR W.C. 

• GARDENS AND PARKING 

£349,950 

ST LAWRENCE PARK, CHEPSTOW 

• BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED DETACHED PROPERTY 

• FOUR BEDROOMS MASTER WITH EN-SUITE 

• TWO RECEPTION ROOMS PLUS CONSERVATORY 

• KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM WITH UTILITY OFF 

• NO ONWARD CHAIN • E.E.R - D 

£374,950 

JAMES STEPHENS WAY, CHEPSTOW 

• SUPERBLY PRESENTED THREE STOREY TOWN HOUSE 

• SIX BEDROOMS, MASTER WITH EN-SUITE SHOWER ROOM 

• GENEROUS OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/DINING ROOM 

• FAMILY BATHROOM PLUS GROUND FLOOR W.C. 

• GARAGE AND PARKING FOR SEVERAL VEHICLES • E.E.R - C 

£369,950 

PARK VIEW, CHEPSTOW 

• IMMACULATELY PRESENTED DETACHED BUNGALOW 

• THREE BEDROOMS, ONE WITH EN-SUITE 

• OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/DINING ROOM 

• CONSERVATORY AND UTILITY ROOM 

• OFF ROAD PARKING AND GARAGE 

£389,950 

Magor/Undy Area 

Tel: 01633 745396 

Chepstow Lettings Office 

Tel: 01291 624881 

PENMOEL COTTAGE, WOODCROFT 

• TWO BEDROOM FIRST FLOOR FLAT 

• PRIVATE AND QUITE LOCATION 

• LPG GAS CENTRAL HEATING 

• AVAILABLE NOW 

• EPC RATING G 

£435.00 PCM 

SEVERN VIEW, CAERWENT 

• 2ND FLOOR APARTMENT 

• ONE BEDROOM 

• LIVING ROOM WITH COUNTRYSIDE VIEWS 

• AVAILABLE 3RD NOVEMBER 

• EPC RATING B 

£495.00 PCM 

LAWNSIDE, CHEPSTOW 

• 1ST FLOOR APARTMENT 

• ONE BEDROOM WITH JULIET BALCONY 

• OPEN PLAN LIVING AREA TO KITCHEN 


• EPC RATING C 

£550.00 PCM 

ST MARYS ARCADE, CHEPSTOW 

• TWO BEDROOM PURPOSE BUILT APARTMENT 

• TOTALLY REFURBISHED THROUGHOUT 

• MODERN KITCHEN WITH INTEGRAL APPLIANCES 



£595.00 PCM 

RIVERSIDE MILL, CHEPSTOW 

• GROUND FLOOR TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT 

• MODERN KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM 

• SEPARATE LIVING ROOM 

• AVAILABLE 6TH OCTOBER 


£650.00 PCM 

BANK STREET, CHEPSTOW 

• TWO BEDROOM FIRST FLOOR FLAT 

• RECENTLY REFURBISHED THROUGHOUT 

• MODERN KITCHEN AND BATHROOM 

• NEUTRAL DECOR THROUGHOUT 

• AVAILABLE 23RD OCTOBER 

£650.00 PCM 

ROCKDENE BUNGALOW, WOODCROFT 

• DETACHED TWO BEDROOM BUNGALOW 

• PRIVATE GARDEN AND PARKING SPACE 

• LPG GAS CENTRAL HEATING 


• EPC RATING G 

£675.00 PCM 

SALISBURY HOUSE, MAGOR 

• PREMIUM TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT 

• LARGE OPEN PLAB LIVING AREA 

• LUXURY FITTED KITCHEN WITH APPLIANCES 

• AVAILABLE END OF OCTOBER 


£750.00 PCM 

www.thinkmoon.co.uk

PROPERTIES 9 

bedroom 


3 Cop Hill, Itton NP16 6BH 

Moon & Co 01291 624881 www.thinkmoon.co.uk 

Price 

£800 PCM 


PROPERTY TO LET 



Semi Detached • Three Bedrooms bathroom bathroom • Living Room 

3 


bathroom 

bathroom 

bathroom 


2 1 6 






Large Open Plan Kitchen Diner Conservatory • Double Glazing • Large Gardens to the Rear 

Beautiful Views to Front and Rear • Large Off Road Parking Area • Neutral Decor Throughout 


Available Now • Unfurnished • No Pets 

ELECTRIC 

parking 

parking 

parking 

www.furnitureandfabric.co.uk 

Furniture and Fabric Store is a small local business which prides itself on great customer 

service and providing quality furniture and soft furnishings at great prices. 

• Quality oak, pine and painted furniture and mattresses 

• Furniture delivery within 7 days 

• 1000’s of metres of roll fabric 

(Voyage, Linwood, Lorient, Prestigious) 

• Readymade curtains 

• Made to measure curtain and blind service 

• Haberdashery, foam, and upholstery service 

Unit C2, Bulwark Industrial Estate 

Chepstow NP16 5QZ 

01291 630 169 

9.00am - 5.00pm 

14 St Marys Street 

Chepstow NP16 5EW 

01291 628 666 

9.00am - 5.00pm 

6-8 North Walk, Yate Shopping Centre 

Bristol BS37 4AP 

01454 322 720 

9.00am - 5.00pm

10 ADVICE 

Is it time to fix my 

Mortgage Interest Rate? 

Mortgage holders were relieved Bank of England decided last week to leave borrowing costs 

at an all time low of 0.25%, however all the signs and warnings suggest a rate rise is on its way. 

The current bank base rate is the lowest in the Bank of Englands 323 year history and changes 

upwards could lead homeowners, who have borrowed at the reduced levels, 

to face increases in their bills in the near future. 

For those on a lender’s standard variable rate, a rise in interest 

rates has the potential to have a huge impact. Those on a 

fixed rate won’t be impacted until the end of their fixed term. 

Many mortgage holders will assume that as interest rates have 

reduced over the past few years that even if they are currently on 

their lenders standard variable rate then as they are bound to be 

getting a good deal. Think again. 

Here are a sample of standard variable rates: 

• Barclays 3.74% 

• Halifax 3.74% 

• Natwest 3.75% 

• Santander 4.49% 

Martin Newell, 

Blestium Financial 

You will agree that these rates look good compared to how high historic rates have 

been until you see what might be available. 

Lets assume you have a repayment mortgage of £150,000 and you have 25 

years remaining and you are paying the current standard variable rate for the 

aforementioned lenders. Lets say the value of your home is £200,000 which means 

you are eligible for a 75% loan to value mortgage. 

The monthly cost would be: 

• Barclays £770 a month 

• Halifax £770 a month 

• Natwest £771 a month 

• Santander £832 a month 

Now lets see what happens to the monthly payments for the same 75% loan to 

value mortgage if you come off the standard variable rate for the above companies and 

switch to a fixed rate elsewhere. 

The prices below are for a fee free remortgage based on a balance of £150,000 with 

25 years remaining: 

• 2 year fixed rate £596 a month 



THESE ARE SAVINGS OF BETWEEN £150 AND £200 A MONTH. 

These rates are correct at time of this article going to print and subject to the 

lenders affordability and criteria rules. 

With rates so low many people are also choosing to fix and reduce the term of 

the mortgage. For example for the same payment over 25 years on a lenders standard 

variable rate you could potentially remortgage to the 2 year fixed above and reduce 

your mortgage term to 19 years and still pay the same as you was before whilst 

knocking a huge 72 months off your mortgage! 

Every mortgage and scenario is different and as we do not charge any fees at 

Blestium Financial Services for a mortgage review you will not leave our meeting 

worse off. If you have redemption penalties for changing mortgage providers we will 

make a diary note to contact you two months before they end to conduct a review. 

We will also complete all the paperwork and guide you through the process from 

application to completion. 

Please call us on 01600 775393 or 07525616987 to arrange an appointment. 

mortgages, life insurance and finance specialists 

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

NEWS 

11 

New Name - Same Friendly Faces 

We are delighted to announce that earlier this year our office in Usk 

was re-branded to Archer & Co. 

The Parry family acquired the highly respected Archer & Co Estate Agency 

business based in Chepstow, in January last year. Under the guidance of Joe 

Parry and John Parry, the brand has continued to grow alongside our mutual 

Fine & Country operation. 

The decision to rebrand has been taken to align the offices in Usk and Chepstow 

under the same name, to promote the beautiful area we live in, to those locally and 

further afield. Hopefully you will have noticed a few changes in the past months. 

Updated marketing materials, including our For Sale and To Let boards and 

particulars, as well as our office on Bridge Street. 

The team in Usk remains predominantly the same, with Rachael Carter, Elaine 

Williams and Kevin Farthing continuing on day to day matters. Gilly Franklin joins 

us from Parrys Monmouth office and will continue to grow our new Homes and rental 

services offered as well as assisting in all aspects of our business. Rhian Parry has 

also returned to the office and whilst taking an active role in the office her and her 

husband Tom Parry, both residents of Usk for many years, will now oversee the future 

growth of the business, along with Joe Parry in Chepstow. We are delighted that John 

Parry will remain as a Consultant to us and will be available to service established 

clients and projects as well as providing his extensive knowledge and expertise of the 

area. 

We will continue to strive to offer the best possible service to all our clients. We 

pride ourselves in being a forward thinking Estate Agency and Chartered Surveying 

practice and as ever we continue to look at new techniques and the use of social media 

to assist us in selling or renting your property. We will shortly be introducing a new 

website and are proud to announce we are now members of The Guild of Professional 

Estate Agents and benefit from their high quality marketing solutions, National 

Network and Park Lane, London office. 

Rhian Parry said - “We believe this is good news for all our current clients and 

prospective clients in the sale of their homes and the service we can provide. We 

thank everyone for their continued support and business and look forward to the 

exciting times ahead.’” 

DO YOU HAVE A 

PROPERTY RELATED 

BUSINESS OR SERVICE? 

2 Issues per month 

FREE 

37,000 monthly circulation 

3 distribution methods: • Door to door in three towns 

• Rural delivery • National and independent retailers 

Why not advertise in the only property specific 

publication in Monmouthshire, South Herefordshire 

and West Gloucestershire 

Next Deadline 6th October 

01600 711680 

www.thepropertydrop.co.uk • info@thepropertydrop.co.uk

12 THROUGH THE KEYHOLE 

Purpose-built family home 

Sharon Chilcott visits a Monmouthshire home 

designed to fit a family’s lifestyle… 

Sharon Chilcott 

When Gayna and Philip Evans set about 

creating a purpose-built family home 

on a piece of land they had bought at 

auction, they achieved it, on every level! 

One of the obstacles presented by the plot in 

The Narth, near Monmouth, was the fact that it 

was on a slope. “We either had to work with the 

levels or import a lot of soil and build it up, so 

we said, let’s go with the slope,” said Gayna. As 

a result, the individually-designed, six-bedroom 

family home is set out over five split floors. These 

divide the accommodation into formal space and 

family space, with two bedrooms and a Jack and 

Jill bathroom on the top floor and a games room 

above the double garage providing lots of space 

for the couple’s two children and their school 

friends, away from the main part of the house. 

The house also has a heart-of-the home kitchen/ 

breakfast room and lots of space for entertaining. 

“This has been a real party house in its time,” said 

Gayna. 

When Gayna and Philip bought the plot with 

outline planning about 14 years ago, they were 

already experienced home-builders. “You get what 

you want if you build from scratch,” said Gayna. 

“We had built a house in the village, literally just 

round the corner so we used the same architect 

who designed that one for us. We had always said 

we would do two or three ‘self builds’ because by 

the third time, we would get it right. But, on the 

whole, we got it right with this one.” 

One of Gayna’s ‘must haves’ was at least five 

bedrooms, to accommodate visitors. “Our other 

house had four bedrooms, but our children, Paige 

and James, often had friends to stay and the spare 

room was downstairs, so that didn’t really work. 

So I briefed the architect that I wanted another 

bedroom. I also said the house must have high 

ceilings and lots of light.” 

The couple sold their existing property and 

moved into rented accommodation whilst they 

got full planning permission and started the build. 

When they finally moved to their new, purposebuilt 

home about twelve years ago, there was still 

work to finish off. Gayna said: “It was probably 

two to three years before it was completely the 

way we wanted it and we are still doing things 

now - while we live here, I don’t think we will 

stop!” 

The property, which sits in grounds of about 

three quarters of an acre, provides generous 

and well-laid out accommodation. The front 

door leads from a car parking area to a ground 

floor hallway, with a study one side and a 

cloakroom the other. The double-height hallway 

is overlooked by a gallery landing and a short

13 

staircase leads to the lower ground floor. Here, the large kitchen/breakfast room 

is fitted with modern, light oak units and decorated in contemporary fashion 

with the bold, block colours which Gayna favours. There’s a central island/ 

breakfast bar, space for a large, modern dining table and, at the far end of the 

room, a seating area with French doors leading to a raised sun deck. For formal 

mealtimes, there’s a separate dining room which Gayna has decorated in a 

traditional style. She had the chairs and carvers upholstered in an attractive, 

patterned fabric which has also been used to make a matching table runner and 

beautiful button detailing on the co-ordinating peach, faux silk curtains. “The 

dining room is great for parties. We had the children’s 18th and 21st birthdays 

here,” said Gayna. 

Completing the accommodation on the lower ground floor, there’s a utility 

room, with fitted units and a family TV room, furnished with comfy sofas. 

Back on the ground floor, there’s a large, formal lounge with French doors 

opening to a paved side-terrace. A focal point of the room is the feature fireplace 

with a log burner on the flagstone hearth. For the colour scheme, Gayna has set 

off the cream carpet and leather sofas with blocks of burgundy from the rug, 

cushions, curtains and throws. 

The imposing master bedroom suite is approached from the first floor 

galleried landing. It has an en-suite shower room, built-in wardrobes and feature 

floor-to-ceiling windows. Gayna chose restful grey tones for the décor, teamed 

with black and white pictures. Separated from the master suite by a change in 

levels, there are also three tastefully decorated double guest bedrooms, a family 

bathroom and a separate shower room. A set of stairs leads up to the games room 

and a further staircase gives access to the children’s bedrooms and bathroom in 

the eaves of the house. 

All around this house there are lots of places to sit out and enjoy the garden 

and surrounding countryside - there’s a choice of paved terraces, raised decking 

and also a summer house at the far end of the lawn, where there’s a wildlife pond. 

“We certainly got it right with this house,” said Gayna. “But the trouble is, 

now it’s too big. The children have grown up and we don’t have the parties we 

used to. So we are looking to downsize.” 

Get the Look 

The Helen Moore 

heart-shaped, 

fur-effect boudoir 

cushion on the 

bed in the master 

bedroom is from 

Salt and Pepper, 

31-33 Monnow St, 

Monmouth 

01600 719339 

www.saltandpepper.co.uk 

Favourite things 

For Gayna, the best thing about 

the property is its location: “I love 

the fact that it is so private, tucked 

down a lane. Anyone coming here 

is either coming to see us or the 

neighbours in the property next door. 

Yet we are very close to the tight-knit 

community of The Narth.” 

Making a lovely splash of colour on the modern 

dining table in the kitchen are these tapas dishes 

and matching tray from the Collectively Artisan 

range at Salt and Pepper, details as before. 

The wood burning stove in the lounge is from The Stove Shop, 

Town & Country Heating Ltd, Raglan Garden Centre, Bryngwyn, 

Raglan, 01291 690873 www.townandcountryheatingraglan.co.uk. 

The cream leather chair, sofas and footstool are from 

Annetts Fine Furniture, Three Elms Road, Hereford 

01432 272712 www.annetts.co.uk 

Get the Lifestyle 

Oakfield House, The Narth, near Monmouth is on the market for 

£775,000 with pa black, 71 Monnow Street, Monmouth 

01600 714355 www.pablack.co.uk

14 LIVING 

Off Grid 

In the modern age, sometimes it feels as though it would be impossible to leave everything behind 

and live a more self-fulfilling, and self-sufficient, lifestyle. 

Smartphones, cars, and constant food, water, and energy supplies have 

all contributed towards an existence that is reliant upon these things 

every day and night; without them we would probably struggle to live 

our lives in a way that felt comfortable. 

However, there are ways of regaining our independence from the 

modern world around us without compromising our quality of life – going 

off-grid is one of them. By replacing energy and water supplies from the 

main grid for renewable alternatives, this way of living offers a sustainable 

alternative to a lifestyle where everything we need is available to use 24/7. 

Together with Flogas, specialists in LPG canisters, we take you through 

exactly how living off-grid can be easier than you think. 

Finding alternative power 

After you’ve removed yourself from the grid, you’ll need to find another 

energy supply to power your home. Solar energy is a reliable form of power 

that can produce around 3,400kWh of free electricity every year. 

If you have small children, then a 3kW to 4kW solar panel system will 

produce the required amount of energy for a family home, whereas a 2kW 

to 3kW solar panel will produce enough energy for smaller homes with less 

people living in them. A 3kW overall solar system will cost around £5,000 

- £6,000 and will be a sound investment based on the amount of free 

electricity you will procure during its lifetime. 

You should also look to install a backup power supply in the form of a 

generator or a gas cylinder; this can be utilised on cloudy days or if your 

solar panels stop working for any reason. Or alternatively, domestic wind 

turbines can also be installed that produce 5kW to 6kW of energy; you 

will also be paid for any energy that you don’t use which is sent back to the 

grid. 

Other considerations 

When you’re relying on energy supplies that are external to the grid, 

then it’s important to only use the energy that you need. 

To keep energy costs low and to live within your own budget, LED 

bulbs should be used to replace incandescent bulbs – helping to reduce 

electricity costs by 75%; aim to get rid of any electrical appliances that you 

don’t need, and make sure that all electrical appliances are turned off at the 

mains once they have been used. 

Drainage 

When living off-grid, you will need to source your own water supply 

if you’re not already near a clean, natural source of water. A well can cost 

anything between £10,000 – 20,000, and this is dependent upon how deep 

the well is dug, and whether the well will be used as a source of drinking 

water or for other domestic purposes. 

A sceptic tank will also need to be installed in the absence of a sewage 

system, and this sewage tank will need to be emptied periodically by a 

vacuum truck so that it is disposed of safely. As well as this, a greywater 

system should also be installed; by treating water used in dishwashing, 

sinks, showers and baths, this water can be used again. This also benefits 

the lifespan of your well, as you can reuse water that has already been 

cleaned and brought to the surface. 

Making lifestyle changes 

Although there are practical changes that you can make to your life, 

such as finding an alternative energy source, making changes to your 

lifestyle are also important considerations. 

Reducing waste 

All the food, energy and water that you use should be monitored and 

maintained at a consistent level; if you begin to slip, then your reliance on 

these things may reach unsustainable levels, which may impact your ability 

to live off-grid. There are many ways to keep on top of waste, and these 

include: 

• Keeping showers short. 

• Only using artificial lighting when it is completely dark. 

• Turning off lights after exiting a room. 

• Using food leftovers for compost to create a rich soil for growing more 

fruit and vegetables. 

• Attend workshops that allow you to learn more about how to repair any 

damages to the home, or how to cultivate land for agricultural practices. 

• Adopt techniques such as hunting and fishing so as to catch fresh food, 

helping to reduce your reliance upon supermarkets that you would 

usually have to drive to. 

Warren Lewis propertyrepoerter.co.uk

ADVICE 

15 

Property 

Q&A 

Wyn Williams, Partner & Head of Residential Property at 

Harding Evans Solicitors in Newport answers your property questions. 

I am buying a property with my boyfriend 

Q but I am providing all of the deposit, how 

can I protect my deposit if things don’t work 

out? 

You should ask your solicitor to prepare a 

A trust deed that will set out how you both 

hold the property. This will govern how the 

property is held and how any balance from the 

sale of the property is split if the property is 

sold. Care would need to be taken if you marry 

at a later date as the provisions may not be 

binding if you were to separate under a divorce. 

My solicitor has asked if I want an 

Q environmental search carried out on the 

property - what is this and do I need it? 

The law states that if any contamination 

A is found on property the owner of the 

property at the time is responsible for the cleanup 

costs of any work. This search would reveal 

past industrial land use on the property and will 

also provide information about any flooding 

and industrial use within close proximity of the 

property. 

Who holds the deeds to my 

Q property? 

Depending upon when you bought your 

A property the majority of properties are 

now registered, once the property is registered 

the title is saved electronically at the land 

registry. Therefore no title deeds as copies 

can be downloaded from the land registry - 

however, there are still properties that remain 

unregistered and these properties will have 

title deeds. We would advise anyone who owns 

an unregistered property to get the property 

registered so that there is no disputing title 

to the property in the future. It also means 

that there is no need to ensure that any deeds 

are stored in a safe place with often banks or 

building societies charging for the pleasure of 

providing the service. 

My solicitor has sent me a statement to 

Q show how much money I need to pay on 

completion to purchase our new build property 

and there is reference to an engrossment fee for 

the sellers solicitors - what is this? 

On any new build property transaction 

A it has become standard practice for the 

developer’s solicitor to make a charge to the 

buyers for preparing the contract and transfer. 

The amount payable varies from developer to 

developer and is normally non-negotiable. 

Harding Evans has a wealth of experience in 

both commercial and residential property and 

we are supported by the latest case management 

systems and established processes to ensure that 

your move proceeds smoothly. If you have any 

questions regarding buying or selling a property 

or you’re looking for a conveyancing quote – 

please get in touch with one of our specialist 

solicitors today. 

HardingEvans are a multi-disciplinary law 

firm with an expert residential property 

team who specialise in buying, selling and 

re-mortgages with fixed-fee rates and no 

hidden costs. 

QUOTE: PROPDROP 

Please get in touch at: 

conveyancing@hevans.com, 01633 235140, 

2 North Street, Newport, NP201TE 

*While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided above, it does not 

constitute legal advice and cannot be relied upon as such. Please seek legal advice for your individual case.

STUNNING NEW 

AND SPACIOUS 

Only two Townhouses remaining in Phase One 

Rising up from the glorious banks of the River Wye, 7Q is a collection of exceptional 

contemporary homes finished to the highest imaginable standards. Superb interior design 

with the finest quality fixtures and fittings throughout combine to offer true luxury living. 

Contact our sales team to arrange a viewing of the showhomes to touch and feel the quality. 

Townhouses Mews Houses Apartments Duplexes Penthouses

DESIGNER APARTMENTS 

LUXURY TOWNHOUSES 

60% of Apartments already sold off plan 

• Large open plan designer kitchens and dining spaces 

• Bi-Folding doors to gardens (Townhouses) 

• Exceptional balcony and terrace spaces (Apartments) 

• Designer bathrooms and en-suites 

• Integrated appliances and underfloor heating 

• Home automation controls 

• Allocated parking 

7Q Marketing Suite 

Picton House 

Lower Church Street 

Chepstow NP16 5HJ 

01291 418056 

info@severnquay.co.uk 

www.severnquay.co.uk

18 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Tree Tops, Bryn Rhedyn, Llanfrechfa 

Archer & Co 01291 672212 www.archerandco.com 

Price 

£450,000 



4 




bathroom 

bathroom 

living room living room etc etc 


bathroom 




laundry area which gives access in turn to a utility area plus external side door. A 

parking 

parking 


3 3 2 

Well proportioned 4 double bedroomed family home situated in an Exclusive Quiet Cul de Sac. 


Double Garage & Enclosed Rear Garden. 

Built in the 80’s Tree Tops comprises an individually designed spacious four double 

bedroomed executive family home situated in the exclusive ever popular Bryn Rhedyn 

close situated off Crown Road. The property has the benefit of full double glazing and 

this combined with a gas central heating system enable heating costs to be maintained at 

a minimum. To the upper ground floor is situated a cloakroom with contemporary suite 

plus particularly spacious lounge and separate kitchen/breakfast room/sitting room 

with further separate dining room and study. 


The lower ground floor has the benefit of 4 double bedrooms with en suite showers to the 

master and second bedroom plus a separate family bathroom again with contemporary 

suite in white with corner shower unit. Also to the ground floor is a particularly useful 

particular feature of the property are the upper and lower verandas to the rear of the 

property and it is the Agent’s opinion that to fully appreciate the many unusual and 

unique features contained within this family home, early internal inspection is essential. 

GAS 

parking 

bedroom 


Rock Road Cottage, Chepstow NP16 6NU 

Fine & Country 01291 629799 www.fineandcountry.com 

Price 

£1,180,000 



5 




bathroom 

bathroom 



bathroom 





Room and Kitchen with a four oven ‘Aga’. In addition on the ground floor is a Lounge 

parking 

parking 


3 5 1 

An immaculate rural home of great style with a breathtaking panorama over the Usk Vale 


including manége, stables and valuable paddock. 

A stunning and impressive home of considerable style and character, immaculate 

throughout and commanding breath-taking, uninterrupted, panoramic views over the 

Usk Vale to Welsh mountains. 

Standing within circa 4 acres of manicured gardens and grounds there are modern 

stables, an allweather manege and a valuable paddock with excellent outriding on the 

doorstep. Originally a modest cottage the recent extensions, largely in bespoke oak 

framed double glazing, in addition to the modern luxuries including a fully equipped 

cinema room, take full advantage of the wonderful views to the South and West. 

The accommodation, much of which has exposed oak beams, is perfect for a family 

and/or entertaining has an Impressive Hall, Fitted Cloakroom, superb Sitting Room 

with oak framed glazed walls and wonderful views, a Dining Room and large Breakfast 

with views which has been adapted a fully equipped Cinema Room. 

Upstairs are five luxury bedrooms, (three en suite), most with views and including 

a beautiful Master Room with oak framed glazed walls and views. There is a Luxury 

Family Bathroom with two person ‘jaccuzzi’ bath and extra large walk-in shower. 

GAS 

parking

5 3 2 E 

5 3 3 B 

3 1 1 F 

4 2 3 D 

PWLLMEYRIC - CHEPSTOW 

Individually designed 5 bed family house 

Very popular village location 

Large private gardens, Lovely views 

Archer & Co Chepstow 01291 62 62 62 

£550,000 

LLANMARTIN 

Modern detached 5 bed three storey family home 

End of quiet cul-de-sac in popular area 

Stunning rural location, excellent countryside views 


£445,000 

CHEPSTOW - WOODCROFT 

Refurbished 3 bed period cottage 

Village setting, 2 miles Chepstow 

Courtyard garden, useful studio 


Guide price £345,000 

CHEPSTOW - TUTSHILL 

Much improved mature family house 

Popular & convenient area, good views 

4 beds (1 en-suite), consent to extend 


Offers over £500,000 

2 1 1 C 

4 1 3 Exempt 

2 1 1 D 

4 2 2 D 

CHEPSTOW 

Ground floor 2 bed apartment 

Walking distance of Chepstow Town Centre 

Parking spaces adjacent to property 


£150,000 

CHEPSTOW TOWN CENTRE 

Grade II listed terraced 4/5 bed house 

Small courtyard garden 

Edge of Town location 



CHEPSTOW 

Well presented 2 bed detached bungalow 

Very popular location 

Level private gardens to the rear 


£295,995 

PWLLMEYRIC, CHEPSTOW 

Individually designed large family home 

Large attractive wrap around gardens 

Very popular location, easy access to motorway 


£499,950 

2 1 1 B 

2 2 2 E 

4 2 2 F 

3 2 1 D 

CHEPSTOW - TUTSHILL 

Ground floor 2 bed flat in popular area 

Very convenient to all amenities 

Dedicated parking space 


£184,950 

HEWELSFIELD 

Well presented 2 bed bungalow 

Large gardens, spectacular views 

Extensive parking plus garage 


£399,500 

TINTERN - LOWER WYE VALLEY 

Home and retail unit in famous beauty spot 

Excellent shop & two large 2 bed flats 

Attractive garden, outbuildings & parking 


£425,000 

TUTSHILL - CHEPSTOW 

Mid-terraced 3 bed cottage 

Immaculately presented 

Very popular location 



3 2 1 C 

4 2 1 D 

4 2 2 D 

4 4 3 F 

BULWARK - CHEPSTOW 

End of terrace 3/4 bed property 

In very popular location 

Parking for several cars 


£235,000 

LLANGYBI, USK 

4 Bed Detached Village Residence 

Attractive Gardens Backing onto Farmland 

Integral Garage & Further Parking 

Archer & Co Usk 01291 67 22 12 

£375,000 

LLANFRECHFA 

Situated in an Exclusive Quiet Cul de Sac 

Well proportioned 4 double bedroomed family home 

Double Garage & Enclosed Rear Garden 

Archer & Co Usk 01291 67 22 12 

£450,000 

MITCHEL TROY 

Lovely Detached Family Cottage 

Large Mature Gardens with Outstanding Rural Views 

Sought After Location 

Archer & Co Usk 01291 67 22 12 

Offers invited £399,950 

Associated Park Lane office

Chepstow 

Monmouth 

Usk 

Ross-on-Wye 

Abergavenny 

Newport 

Forest of Dean 

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 

manege. 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 

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 Offers based on £695,950 

Cheltenham 

Bristol 

Cardiff 

London 

LLANWERN 

Hazel Court comprises an exceptional property the sale of which affords a 

rare opportunity to acquire a distinctive residence occupying a rural position 

yet being easily accessible to major road links. The property offers particularly 

well proportioned family accommodation with spacious reception rooms and 

a bespoke Drew Williams luxury fitted kitchen. In recent times the property 

has been utilised as a particularly successful Bed & Breakfast property and 

whilst that situation could continue it also could easily be utilised for multi 

generational occupation. EPC Rating: D 

KEMPLEY 

A modern extended and much improved detached house in sought after 

village. Perfect for modern living featuring a superb open plan living/dining/ 

kitchen space with a wall of bi-fold doors. Sitting room with fireplace, four 

bedrooms including an excellent ground floor bedroom suite with patio doors 

to garden, and first floor master suite, cloakroom, utility. Ample parking, garage 

and private landscaped gardens with views. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Usk 01291 672212 £850,000 

Fine & Country Ross-on-Wye 01989 764132 £475,000

Regionally 

32 offices 

throughout 

the south west 

LLANVACHES 

A large family house well situated within a rural setting with private landscaped 

gardens, yet only 6 miles from the M4. With a versatile layout, including two 

ground floor bedrooms or additional sitting room and study, there is flexible 

accommodation for a large family and with potential for granny! Hall, fitted 

cloakroom, 'L' shaped drawing room, huge dining room and orangery, well 

fitted kitchen, family room and utility. Upstairs are 3 further beds (1 en-suite). 

Double garage, gymnasium/office and large very private landscaped gardens 

with rural outlook. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Chepstow 01291 629799 Guide price £695,000 

EARLSWOOD - 31 ACRES 

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. EPC Rating: F 

Fine & Country Chepstow 01291 629799 Guide price £1,500,000 

Nationally 

225 offices across 

Great Britain 

Internationally 

Plus 75 

offices globally 

5000 

professional 

associates all 

around the world 

HOPE MANSELL - 3 ACRES 

A most charming former village rectory in a peaceful rural setting. The 

accommodation which still contains a wealth of character is arranged over 

three floors with five double bedrooms, superb oak framed garden room 

magnificent 28' family kitchen, two further reception rooms. Delightful 

landscaped gardens, small paddock, useful range of outbuildings. In all about 3 

acres. EPC Rating: E 

LEA 

A modern detached family home located on the edge of this popular and well 

serviced village. The well proportioned accommodation offers space and 

privacy for all. To the ground floor is an entrance hallway with fitted 

cloakroom, four reception rooms, a dining kitchen and utility room. On the 

first floor are four bedrooms and a family bathroom with the master featuring 

both a dressing room and en-suite shower room. Attractive gardens to the 

rear with ample parking on the driveway and within a double garage to the 

front. EPC Rating: E 

Fine & Country Ross-on-Wye 01989 764132 £985,000 

Fine & Country Ross-on-Wye 01989 764132 £450,000

22 NEWS 

Property prices to increase 

56% by 2027 despite 

current market stall 

Research by eMoov has highlighted that even if the market continues stalling an increase 0.37% a month, 

the average UK house would still hit £347,757 over the next decade, an increase of 56%. 

The average house price has risen on average by just 0.37% a month since the 

decision to leave the EU, compared to 0.67% a month on average between June 

2015 and 2016. 

London has seen a real slowdown in price growth since Brexit and so although the 

capital would still be one of the most expensive cities in the UK (along with Oxford), 

it would have seen one of the lowest percentage increases in value. 

London homeowners have seen an average monthly increase of just 0.18% since 

June last year, but this is still enough to push prices to a huge £597,544 over the next 

ten years, making it the second most expensive city despite the lower rate of growth 

(24%). 

Nottingham is top of the table in terms of monthly prices growth since Brexit, up 

0.80% a month on average meaning the average house price would increase 160% 

from the current £133,215 to £346,592 by 2027. 

Glasgow has increased by a notable 0.70% a month since June of last year, the 

second highest across the UK. If this subdued monthly growth continues the Scottish 

city will see prices hit £285,487 by 2027, a jump of 131%. 

Oxford ties with fourth place Cardiff with an average monthly increase of 0.64% 

in the last year. As a result, the city would see its already expensive current cost of 

property (£413,240) jump £115% to an eye watering £888,542 by 2027. Cardiff 

would see a new average house price of £427,799 by 2027. 

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital and its second entry in the top five has seen prices 

increase by a monthly average of 0.63% since June 2016. The same slower rate of 

growth over the next decade would still see prices exceed half a million (£506,627), 

an increase of 112%. 

Even those that have seen some of the smallest monthly price growth since Brexit 

would still be in for some return on their investment. 

Newcastle is the city to have seen the smallest growth since Brexit, up just 0.07% 

on average each month since June 2016. The average house price in the north-east 

city is now £156,753 and although the same minimal monthly growth would only 

see a 9% increase over the next 20 years, a jump of £13,731 to £170,485 is still better 

than nothing. 

Norwich has surprisingly seen the second lowest rate of monthly growth at 0.12% 

since Brexit. But this is still enough to see a 15% jump to £222,749 over the next ten 

years from the current average of £192,892. 

Founder and CEO of eMoov, Russell Quirk, commented: “With latest industry 

figures indicating an end to the post-Brexit market slowdown that has seemingly 

plagued the market over the last 18 months, many UK homeowners will be breathing 

a sigh of relief, despite having still enjoyed a notable annual increase in their property’s 

value. 

Although these recent slower rates of price growth are unlikely to persist going 

forward, and we are by no means predicting they will, this research demonstrates 

that the outlook would still be rather positive and far from the apocalyptic prophecy’s 

many have talked the market down with since the Brexit vote.” 

Over a quarter choose to buy their 

property on the first viewing 

A survey of over 1,700 people has revealed that over a quarter who have purchased their home in the 

last 12 months decided to buy the property on the strength of their first viewing. 

Another 50 per cent viewed six or 

more properties before finding 

the home but, irrespective of 

the number of properties visited, no 

fewer than 78 per cent of people made a 

decision to buy a specific home within a 

week of starting to look. 

Some 52 per cent of buyers completed 

the process - from making an offer to 

moving in - within a 12 week period. 

The main reasons for moving home 

are financial with 42 per cent saying the 

main driver was to build equity while 29 

per cent wanted to provide security for the 

future. 

Other reasons include a need to move 

to a bigger property, to move in with a 

spouse or partner, or to start a family. 

These findings come from a Tesco Bank 

survey into what motivates buyers and 

what challenges they face in the process. 

Home buyers save an average of over 

£500 per month to help them buy a 

property; Londoners typically save the 

most at £844 per month, while home 

buyers in the Midlands typically save 

the least at £419. Almost 40 per cent 

of movers had no savings left after the 

transaction. 

The survey report on estateagenttoday. 

co.uk found a relatively well-informed 

population when it came to the issues 

surrounding house purchase and moving. 

Around seven in 10 were fully 

prepared for additional moving fees such 

as stamp duty, legal fees, estate agent fees 

and removal costs; some 56 per cent of 

buyers felt ‘informed’ about the home 

buying process.

PROPERTIES 23 

bedroom 


Spring Cottage, Woodcroft, Near Chepstow 

Archer & Co 01291 626262 www.archerandco.com 

Price 

£345,000 



3 





bathroom 

bathroom 

1 1 

bathroom 





Porch, 24 ft lounge/diner • 22ft breakfast kitchen • 3 good beds, bathroom 

Double glazing, gas central heating • 2 car off-street parking • Very attractive gardens 

A most attractive double fronted stone built detached 

period cottage of considerable character. It is well 

situated in a very convenient location within a popular 

village community, just 2 miles from Chepstow town 

centre, close to local amenities including a village inn. 

With rendered elevations the cottage has been 

extended and refurbished to provide comfortable family 

accommodation with modern facilities and replacement 

double glazing and yet retaining a cosy cottage 

atmosphere.There are many fine touches including 

travertine flooring throughout the ground floor, internal 

blinds to some windows, use of split tiling in the lounge 

and main bedroom and a landscaped garden. The 

accommodation includes a porch entrance, 24ft lounge/ 



GAS 

parking 

parking 

parking 

dining room with wood-burner, 22ft breakfast room 

and modern fitted kitchen, three good bedrooms and 

bathroom. 

The cottage stands within attractive mainly walled 

courtyard gardens designed for ease of maintenance 

and ideal for entertaining and al-fresco dining. There is 

valuable off street parking and a useful separate studio. 

The No 1 most costly self build 

mistake - and how to avoid it 

by Herefordshire’s Top 25 Grand Design Architect, Garry Thomas of Thomas Studio 

Have you heard the phrase ‘On time and on 

budget’? It’s a term used in all types of project; 

from construction, renovation to interior fitout, 

it refers to completing a project within the plannedtime-frame 

and within the planned-budget. 

Many times this does not happen and for your 

project this is bad news. 

There are many reasons projects might not come 

in ‘on time and on budget’ but by far the number-onereason 

is a lack of research in the early stages. 

Here is the reason why: At some point during your 

self-build, you are going to discover a way to make your 

home better. And when people rush into the design and 

construction phase people do not discover all the needs 

and options they had (or what they really wanted) until 

the concrete has been poured. 

Without getting a full ‘self-build needs and options 

review’ of your project, before your builder gets on site, 

projects regularly go over budget. 

If you discover better options early then you can 

make changes effortlessly. Make your discoveries late 

and you pay exponentially more. 

Carrying out a ‘self-build needs and options review’ 

will allow your architect to fill in the gaps and help 

ensure your project is on time and on budget. 

At Thomas Studio we have designed a ‘self-build 

needs and options review’ process, because we have 

seen a huge issue in the self-build industry of people 

starting design and construction BEFORE they have 

fully done their research. 

We invest the time in a full self-build needs and 

options review of your project. Not having one can be 

the most expensive decision you make. The most cost 

effective time to discover ALL your needs and options is 

before you start your project. 

Of course these are only brief notes on how to 

ensure your project doesn’t go over time and over 

budget. If you would like to read the full article on 

‘How to avoid the number one most costly mistake 

when building your home’ you can access it for free at 

www.thomasstudio.co.uk/avoid-the-number-one-mostcostly-mistake. 

Garry is an expert in obtaining planning in 

challenging rural areas, creating unique properties, 

agricultural conversions and ‘golden years’ homes for 

elderly parents. 

For further help with your self build plans, 

contact Garry on T: 01432 860338, 

info@thomasstudio.co.uk or browse more useful 

information on www.thomasstudio.co.uk

ROSS-ON-WYE HerefordsHire 

A detached period home in a popular mature residential area half a mile 

from the town centre. Character well proportioned accommodation, ideal 

for family living. on the ground floor is a sitting room, family room, dining 

room, Garden room, Kitchen, Wet room and Porch/Utility room; whilst 

on the first floor you will find four Bedrooms and a Bathroom. There are 

gardens found to both front and rear, with parking on the driveway and 

under cover of a carport. ePC rating d. 

Guide Price: £385,000 

PLUMP HILL MiTCHeLdeAN 

situated in a private woodland location this charming traditional stone 

cottage offers a wealth of character consisting of three bedrooms, living 

room, dining room, kitchen and ground floor bathroom. Blending well 

with the surrounding environment the property encompasses a section of 

attractive native woodland, lawned areas and decking, as well as a parking 

area for two cars. There are an abundance of forest walks on the property’s 

doorstep. ePC rating G - No oNWArd CHAiN. 


LEA HerefordsHire 

A very well presented four bedroom detached house in a popular village 

location offering light and spacious accommodation throughout. There is a 

lovely large welcoming reception hall, a delightful sitting room with feature 

open fireplace, a conservatory and fitted cloakroom. excellently fitted 

kitchen/dining room with a utility room off. four good size bedrooms one 

with en-suite shower, family bath/shower room. Generous parking and a 

double garage/workshop, a lawned area, garden shed and greenhouse. To 

the side of the garden is a stream. ePC rating e. 


LLANGROVE HerefordsHire 

Tucked away within the centre of the village a former Wesleyan chapel 

believed to date from about 1840. enjoying rural views, the accommodation, 

which now requires updating, provides an entrance hall with fitted cloakroom, 

three reception rooms, an 18’ kitchen, three bedrooms and a shower room. 

The majority of ground floor windows are fitted with electric security 

shutters. A driveway to the front leads to a single garage with storage over 

and a small manageable garden. ePC rating G. 


LYDBROOK 

outstanding recently extended and extensively refurbished cottage in the 

centre of this popular village. Having great character throughout with old 

beams and exposed stone. superb kitchen with single storey extension 

to an open plan family/living room, impressive galleried hall, cosy sitting 

room, ground floor bathroom, 3 bedrooms (1 en-suite). sunny south facing 

courtyard, off road parking and a large double garage/workshop. over the 

garage is a very useful studio with en-suite shower room and ample space 

to install a kitchenette. ePC rating e. 


ROSS-ON-WYE HerefordsHire 

situated on an exclusive gated development in a popular residential area of 

ross on Wye, is this smartly presented, 3 bedroom apartment. encompassing 

2 floors, the apartment offers a pleasant living area, kitchen, ground floor 

shower room, first floor bathroom, 3 bedrooms and a delightful private 

balcony. The property enjoys use of the spectacular communal grounds, 

which includes a large lake and generous lawns. 2 parking spaces to the 

front of the property. ePC rating C. 


52 Broad Street, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7DY 

Telephone: 01989 768484 | Email: ross@parrys.com 

@parrysproperty 

www.parrys.com

PROPERTIES 25 

bedroom 


Noakes Cottage, Pontshil, Ross-on-Wye 

Fine & Country 01989 764132 www.fineandcountry.com 

It enjoys a south facing rural setting off a quiet country lane in the heart of beautiful 

open countryside, on the Herefordshire/Gloucestershire borders, just over 4 miles from 

Ross-on-Wye. 

There is new wiring, bathroom, kitchen and double glazing and all improvements have 

been undertaken to ensure they blend with the charm of the old building, with its 

wealth of exposed beams and character features throughout. All rooms have exposed 

beams, there is a dining hall, sitting room with inglenook and woodburner, fitted cottage 

Price 

£385,000 


2 




bathroom 

bathroom 

2 2 

A real gem - offering the best of old and new in a carefully refurbished 

half-timbered thatched period cottage of considerable character. 

bathroom 








kitchen and a good utility room with fitted cloakroom and shower. Upstairs are two 

large double bedrooms and the refurbished bathroom. The gardens are a joy. Designed 

by the vendors as a typical old English Cottage Garden to compliment the house, there 


are formal areas of lawn with well stocked borders – facing south for the sun and the 

view, a productive vegetable area and a mini orchard! There is ample parking, a modern 

double garage/workshop and an old stone barn with potential as studio or to attach to 

the cottage. 

ELECTRIC 

parking 

parking 

parking 

bedroom 


Frottage Cottage, Plump Hill, Mitcheldean 

Parrys 01989 768484 www.parrys.com 

Price 

£299,950 


3 




bathroom 

Traditional stome cottage in a private woodland setting 

Three bedrooms, kitchen, dining room, living room, bathroom 


Attractive gardens, parking 


Access to nearby forest walks 

No onward chain 

Situated in a private woodland location this charming traditional stone cottage offers 

a wealth of character consisting of three bedrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen 

and ground floor bathroom. Blending well with the surround environment the property 

bathroom 

2 1 

bathroom 







LPG 

parking 

parking 

parking 

encompasses a section of attractive native woodland, lawned areas and decking, as well 

as a parking area for two cars. There are an abundance of forest walks on the property's 

doorstep.

26 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Castell Prydydd, Monmouthshire 

Parrys 01600 713030 www.parrys.com 

Price 

£1,300,000 





bathroom 



bathroom 

Castell Prydydd or ‘Poets Castle’ is a substantial superb historic Grade 11 listed former farmhouse, set in Circa 

5 

bathroom 

4 4 

18 acres of pasture, paddocks and gardens, and sited on The Blorenge Mountain. 

A stunning house, immaculately presented, combines an abundance of charming period 

features with a complimentary blend of contemporary comforts providing plenty of 

luxurious and flexible accommodation with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 4 reception 

rooms. A delightful home in a glorious setting. Rarely do homes of this exceptional 

calibre enter the market. Period features include wonderful exposed timbers, superb 

stone fireplace, oak floors and doors and a delightful 16c triangular stained glass 

window depicting the name of the property. 

In addition to the main house is an adjacent separate equestrian stone built complex 





with stables, kitchen, cloaks, secure tack room, garage and storage sheds. The yard 

provides facilities for washing horses and extensive hay and equipment storage etc. This 

complex is extremely flexible and could be used for garaging, workshops etc. 

Situated above the stables garage/covered 

is a parking spacious 

parking parking self-contained parking double bedroomed flat with 

shower room, W.C and fitted kitchen and breakfast room providing independent 

accommodation. In addition to the stable complex is a fully enclosed manege circa 54 x 

23 meters with the most breathtaking views towards The Skirrid Mountain and beyond. 

Directly alongside the manege is car parking space for several large vehicles. 

GAS 

parking 

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

PARRYS 

LLANGROVE, ROSS-ON-WYE HEREFORDSHIRE 

Situated in the delightful village of Llangrove. One of four properties which were 

designed and built approximately 2002. The accommodation briefly comprises; 

Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Sitting Room with multi-fuel stove, Dining Room, 

Kitchen/Breakfast Area measuring 19ft in length and Utility Room. First Floor 

Master Bedroom with two double fitted wardrobes, ensuite Shower Room. Three 

further Bedrooms and main Bathroom. Good views from the rear aspect across 

Herefordshire countryside. The property is approached over the shared entrance 

driveway, which in turn leads to the parking area in front of the house and access to 

the Integral Garage. The gardens lie mainly to the rear of the property and enjoy a 

pleasant sized lawned area with shrub borders. EPC Rating C 


ABERGAVENNY MONMOUTHSHIRE 

A well-presented and spacious dormer style bungalow located in the popular village 

of Llanddewi Rhydderch. The bungalow has been updated by the present owner 

and offers a light and spacious sitting room with feature fireplace housing an electric 

fire, a modern, comprehensively fitted, kitchen/breakfast room and a conservatory 

with views across open fields. On the ground floor are 2 rooms, one to the front 

and one to the rear, either of which could be used as bedrooms or reception rooms. 

This immaculately kept dormer bungalow provides flexible accommodation with 

both ground and first floor bedrooms and bathrooms. EPC Rating E. 



The Old Dairy is a former agricultural building converted to a beautifully presented 

single storey country dwelling finished to the highest of standards incorporating 

quality fixtures and fittings including oak floors and skirting boards, oak framed 

double glazed windows and doors and bespoke wooden window blinds. The 

property is located deep in the heart of the unspoilt Monmouthshire countryside 

and occupies a rural but non isolated location just over a mile from the village of 

Llantilio Crossenny. The Old Dairy offers an attractive entrance hall with study/ 

reading area, open plan kitchen/living/dining room, master bedroom which has 

under floor heating to the en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms which 

have bespoke furniture and a family bathroom. EPC Rating C. 



SETTING THE STANDARD FOR THE OVER 55s. Built to Blue Cedar Homes’ 

high specification, the house provides generously proportioned and versatile 

accommodation, with specially designed features so that the property can be 

adapted should needs change in the future. Neutral décor throughout offers a light 

and spacious house, complete with carpets, window dressings and light fittings. Knoll 

Gardens is designed to provide you with a beautiful and stress-free environment 

to enjoy - without the worry of exterior property and garden maintenance. The 

Blue Cedar Homes Management Company employs a visiting Estate Manager who 

is responsible for the general wellbeing and security of the developments. EPC 

Rating B. 


CLEARWELL GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

Conveniently situated in the centre of this popular village a family size cottage with 

a very private and appealing south garden. Much larger than it first appears it has 

been refurbished and carefully extended to provide a home of immense character 

with many period features. There is a hall, superb 22ft beamed lounge with classic 

stone inglenook, dining room and an outstanding 22ft fitted kitchen/sitting room 

with doors to the gardens. In addition there is a large utility room, three double 

bedrooms and a luxury bathroom. The mainly walled gardens include off street 

parking. The entire garden has a southerly aspect and immediately adjacent to the 

house is a terrace ideal for al fresco dining overlooking a small ornamental stonelined 

pond. EPC Rating F. 


REDBROOK MONMOUTHSHIRE 

A freehold building plot conveniently situated in the popular Wye Valley village just 

south of Monmouth. It has detailed consent for a substantial two storey family house 

extending to over 210sq.m. (2270 sq.ft.), including 4 bedrooms, 2 en-suite. All mains 

services are either on site or on the perimeter of the site including gas. Copies 

of the consent and accompanying plans are available on our website, or can be 

inspected at our Monmouth office. The plot is well situated on the edge of a popular 

development and is within easy walking distance of the excellent village amenities, 

including primary school, shop and pub. 


YOUR HOME, OUR MARKET 

2 Agincourt Square, Monmouth, Monmouthshire, NP25 3BT 

21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5AA 

Telephone : 01600 713030 | Email : monmouth@parrys.com 

Telephone : 01873 858990 | Email : abergavenny@parrys.com 

Follow us: 

@parrymonmouth 

www.parrys.com 

Follow us: 

@parrysaber

28 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Model Cottage, The Hendre, Monmouth 

Newland Rennie 01600 712916 www.newlandrennie.com 

Price 

£425,000 






On the market for the first time in over 100 years, this cottage is situated in the much sought after 




rural area of The Hendre within easy access of Monmouth. 

3 

bathroom 

bathroom 

bathroom 




3 1 1 


This charming Grade II listed country cottage is set in an idyllic rural location within easy access of Monmouth. 

OIL 

parking 

Newland Rennie, Monmouth, are delighted to offer this 

charming Grade II Listed country cottage which dates 

from 1860 and has an abundance of original features. 

The accommodation at the property includes: a kitchen, 

dining room, sitting room, study with three bedrooms 

and a family bathroom. 

The property is partially double glazed and has oil fired 

central heating, electricity, mains water and drainage. 

The cottage stands in a large plot and offers tremendous 

potential for renovation and modernisation. 


Model Cottage is set in an idyllic rural location but it is 

still within easy reach of the market town of Monmouth. 

Tell us #HCRlaw 

PEOPLE ARE 

OUR PASSION 

WHAT’S YOURS? 

Our clients trust us with their greatest asset by putting their dream 

home in our safe hands. 

Your Local Top 100 UK Law Firm 

Andrew Murfin, Head of Residential Conveyancing, Harrison Clark Rickerbys 

Talk to us: Wye Valley: 01989 562377 Visit us online: www.hcrlaw.com 

inc SHAWCROSS 

Harrison Clark Rickerbys inc Shawcross is a trading name of Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the SRA

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 ensuite 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 

91 HEREFORD ROAD 

Situated in a sought after location on the edge of Monmouth town, this attractive 

stone built semidetached period property with attached annex has a wealth of 

original features. The property is on the market for the first time in 50 years and 

offers flexible accommodation as either one house or as a house and separate annex. 

The nearby town of Monmouth provides a comprehensive range of amenities with 

its excellent private and state educational facilities and its wide range of national 

retailers with many family run shops. The property is in an elevated position taking 

advantage of the wonderful westerly views to the Black Mountains. Outside is a 

driveway and parking and gardens to the front and rear. 

£449,500 

DICKENSFIELD, PEN-Y-FAN 

Enjoying a rural location amidst beautiful countryside, this detached house 

with an integral garage, provides spacious and flexible family accommodation 

including reception hall, shower room, study, family room/bedroom four, 

dining room, sitting room, kitchen, utility room, office/store room and large 

landing area, laundry/store room and family bathroom and three bedrooms. 

The house has double glazed windows and provides scope for further 

modernization. There is a hard standing parking area, large landscaped 

gardens and paddocks extending in total to approximately 2 acres. 

The property is situated in the rural hamlet of Pen y Fan which is a short distance 

from the village of Trellech and approximately 7 miles from Monmouth and 

8 miles from Chepstow. There is direct access to the Wye Valley path, Firhill, 

Bigsnap and Cuckoo Woods, all providing miles of walking, riding and cycling. 

£545,000 

WANTED 

PROPERTIES WITH LAND 

WE HAVE A NUMBER OF GENUINE PURCHASERS 

www.newlandrennie.com

30 

PROPERTIES 

bedroom 


Craigness, Milkwall, Coleford, Gloucestershire Price 

Ferrino 01594 811111 www.ferrino.co.uk 

£475,000 



5 




bathroom 

bathroom 



bathroom 




parking 

parking 


3 5 2 

This impressive period property is set in a formal landscaped garden on the outskirts of 


Coleford Town in the heart of the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. 

It is a beautifully presented home of much character, stylishly dressed and finished with 

great attention to detail. This, combined with generously proportioned, high ceiling 

rooms creates a considerable sense of space and positively radiates a calm and restful 

atmosphere. 

There are three reception rooms including a fabulous sitting room with sufficient 

floor space for a grand piano and a very intimate formal dining room. There is a well 

appointed kitchen with plenty of storage. Two of the five bedrooms are en-suite, there 

are a further two bathrooms. 

The two storey detached garage building garage/covered parking parking parking parking 

presents an opportunity to create additional 

living space if required. 

There is parking space for a number of vehicles. This is an individual property of 

character and style, a very desirable family home. 

GAS 

parking 

Onliners blamed for chain 

delays and fall-throughs 

The Sunday Times gathered information from traditional agents who related a string 

of incidents where they have to push on behalf of clients of online agencies. 

The report on estateagenttoday.co.uk questions 

whether there is growing concern that online 

agents who do not chase-up on behalf of clients 

are leading to delays and fall-throughs in chains - with 

traditional agents sometimes having to do the work 

instead. 

“There’s a chain of four happening and we are selling 

something at £1.5m at the top, but the online agents are 

failing to chase the sale of the flat at the bottom of the 

chain, causing a stand still for everyone involved” says 

Rupert Lawson-Johnston from Strutt & Parker. 

“I have stepped in almost undercover to help the 

solicitor of the flat, as at this stage it is imperative that 

the sale is progressed. With the online agent there is no 

one to call, no person who is motivated to help because 

there is no commission structure. I think it’s going to 

be one of the biggest problems in our industry going 

forwards” he adds. 

James Robinson, general manager at the Lurot Brand 

agency in London, says: “The owner of a mews house 

in W2 was advised by a well known on-line agency to 

market their house with them for a totally unrealistic 

price, which completely stalled the marketing for over 

five months. The owners became extremely frustrated 

with the lack of contact, advice and activity the agency 

were producing, so they sought our professional 

advice.” 

The Sunday Times piece also relates how Christian 

Warman, director of newly-launched Tedworth Property 

Group, experienced at first hand a problem with 

viewing a property he would to buy that was being 

marketed by an online agency. 

“I wanted to make an offer and was told I had to 

make it online. I asked for guidance from the agent 

but she didn’t know the client or their circumstances. 

Nervous of-overpaying I made a very low offer online 

but before the offer was submitted they tried to sell me 

add-on services (conveyancing, insurance, mortgages, 

surveys etc) which I suspect are where they make their 

money. 

“The only feedback to the offer was that it wasn’t 

high enough and would I like to increase it? There was 

no negotiating, no coercing to make an initial offer, no 

enthusing to make a (higher) offer, no confidence or 

reassurance given to make a (higher) offer. It was a tickbox 

exercise on a website, a bit like buying something 

on e-bay. I lost interest and didn’t make a higher offer 

and that was the last I heard - the call centre located 

hundreds of miles away called about two months later 

to see if I was still looking but knew nothing about the 

property I viewed or whether it was still available” he 

says. 

A Purplebricks statement, quoted in the Sunday 

Times piece, says: 

“It comes down to reputation and word of mouth. 

You need to earn a good reputation in the local market 

in order to build a sustainable business. ... If you’re a 

traditional agent you’re going to throw a bit of mud 

aren’t you? We’re giving people an alternative to the old 

costly structure of commission.” 

It then adds: “It is no coincidence that since 

Purplebricks has been in existence the average 

commission rate charged by traditional agents looks to 

have reduced. More telling than their criticism is the fact 

that many are now trying to imitate our model.”

Making estate agency make sense. 

Contact us on 01594 811111 

or theteam@ferrino.co.uk 

47 High Street,Lydney, Gloucs GL 15 5DD 

AWRE, NEWNHAM-ON-SEVERN 

- £850,000 

A 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. The comfortable period residence is a home of 

character with a story to tell. 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 

business enterprise 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. 

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 wellestablished 

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. 

NORCHARD GARDENS, 

WHITECROFT - £339,950 

This immaculate property is one of the architecturally 

designed houses on the very popular modern development 

of Whitecroft Gardens in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. 

It is a superb high quality home with a very relaxing 

atmosphere in a peaceful yet convenient location. The 

owners have upgraded the internal finish to include granite 

work surfaces and high gloss floor tiles. The accommodation 

extends to a lovely restful sitting room which overlooks 

the green, a fabulous kitchen/family room, utility room, 

cloakroom, four bedrooms, the master being en-suite and 

family bathroom. A further enhancement is a beautifully 

landscaped garden with fully stocked borders. The property 

has a detached garage and further parking space to the 

front and side of the house. Beyond the development is a 

designated conservation area with a backdrop of woodland 

and lovely views over the forest. The property benefits from 

a remaining seven years NHBC warranty. 

HOWARD ROAD, 

BROADWELL - £269,950 

This delightful cottage sits in an attractive walled garden 

on the edge of the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. It is 

a very quiet location within a short drive of the local 

town and beautiful open woodland of the Forest. The 

property is presented in very good order throughout. 

The fixtures and fittings including doors, flooring and 

kitchen appliances are all good quality. The layout is 

surprisingly spacious with a flexible open plan style. 

A particular focal point is the beamed fireplace in the 

living room with the inset Colebrookdale multi fuel 

stove. There are three good double bedrooms and a large 

family bathroom. A real bonus is the detached garage/ 

workshop, a substantial building with its own power 

supply. There is off road parking for two/three vehicles. 

This a most attractive family home in a pleasant and 

convenient location. 

HIGH STREET, NEWNHAM - 

£249,950 

Ye Olde Kings Head is one of the historic period 

dwellings that shape the High Street of the picturesque 

riverside village of Newnham on Severn, Gloucestershire. 

The properties are unique and of varying architectural 

styles spanning centuries. This Grade II Listed former 

hostelry has been a much loved family home for many 

years. It would now benefit from some investment and 

modernization. The accommodation extends to three 

spacious reception rooms, kitchen, three bedrooms and a 

large attic room, a ground floor cloakroom and first floor 

bathroom. There is a delightful walled garden, a lovely 

sheltered area with an outlook towards the River Severn 

in a south facing direction. Newnham is a very popular 

village with a lively atmosphere and a strong sense of 

community. Ye Olde Kings Head is a home of character 

with much potential. The property is offered for sale 

with ‘No Onward Chain’. 

PARKEND ROAD, BREAM - 

£180,000 

The Old Sunday School is situated in the popular 

village of Bream in the heart of beautiful Forest of Dean, 

Gloucestershire. The original school house was built in 

1851 but over the following years the requirement for 

more space resulted in it being re-built on a larger scale in 

1859. The property is now privately owned. It is a complete 

renovation project with full planning permission in place 

to create a substantial four bedroom family home with 

increased outside space and off road parking. Plans can be 

viewed on the Forest of Dean District Council web site Ref 

P0055/14/DISCON. The shell of the building is traditional 

Forest stone, all services, including mains gas, are in place. 

The property represents a rare opportunity to create a 

unique and individual family home in a popular village 

environment. However, such a substantial space, 2400 sq ft 

arranged over two floors, could lend itself to a number of 

possibilities. 

ferrino.co.uk

Sales - Monmouth 

Still 

Available 


SSTC 

Must 

View 



SSTC 

36 Homeforge £62,500 

Offered with no onward chain, this retirement apartment has 

lovely views, attractive communal gardens and a contemporary 

walk in shower room. EPC rating C. 

2 Brewery Terrace £180,000 

Offered with no onward chain, this Grade II listed property 

briefly consists of a lounge with feature wood burning stove, 

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

three bedrooms and upstairs bathroom. EPC rating E. 

Lady of Lourdes £500,000 

This impressive family home offers over 3600 square feet of 

beautifully presented accommodation. The former chapel was 

converted just over 12 years ago, making full use of the large 

windows and abundance of natural light. EPC rating E. 

Sparrow Hill £180,000 

his deceptively spacious and characterful property has been 

well maintained by the present owners who have lived here for 

over 30 years, benefiting from off road parking and easy access 

to the town centre! EPC rating E. 


Investment 

Opportunity 


Still 

Available 


Great 

Location 

Must 

View 


The Shrubbery £600,000 

options to adapt this large versatile house into additional flats 

or bedsits or to suit multi-generational accommodation. It has 

2 existing self-contained flats so could provide ongoing rental 

income for the purchaser. Set on the outskirt of Monmouth 

Town Centre. EPC rating C. 

Kymin Lea £145,000 

ffered with no onward chain, this two bedroom home has a 

large dining kitchen and a decent sized south facing garden. 

Ideal investment or first time buy! EPC rating D. 

2 Church Mills £146,000 

Offered with no onward chain, this spacious apartment is an 

ideal first time buy or bolt hole within the beautiful Wye Valley! 

There is a large open plan living / dining / kitchen, two double 

bedrooms, ample storage and pleasant communal space. EPC 

rating E. 

Oakfield House £775,000 

Approached via a private lane, this six double bedroom family 

home sits on a plot of approximately three quarters of an acre in a 

rural village location within the Wye Valley, an ‘Area of Outstanding 

Natural Beauty’. The property was built to the present owners 

exacting standards about 12 years ago. EPC rating C. 

Sales - Chepstow 

SSTC 


Still 

Available 


Village 

Location 


Under 

Offer 

Elan Way, Caldicot £325,000 

Open HOuse was 15tH september 4pm-6pm 

Call to Book Your Place NOW. Four Bedroom Detached. Large 

Conservatory with. Log Burner. Open Plan Kitchen/Diner. 

Garage and Carport Plus Large Driveway. Ideal Family Home. 

Close to Schools. EPC rating C. 

38 Homeforge £72,500 

Offered with no onward chain, this retirement apartment has 

lovely views, attractive communal gardens and a contemporary 

walk in shower room. EPC rating C. 

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. EPC rating D. 


Still 

Available 


Great 

Location 


Bungalow 


SSTC from 

Open House 

Channel View, Bulwark £249,995 

An outstanding extended family home. Immaculately 

presented semi-detached Home. Extended 4 Bedrooms. 

Driveway for 2 cars & Detached Garage. Spacious rooms. Utility 

and Cloakroom. New Kitchen. Stunning landscaped garden. EPC 

rating D. 

Fairview £235,000 

Located in a peaceful CUL DE SAC, this well presented 

bungalow has a LARGE LIVING ROOM, CONSERVATORY and 

ATTRACTIVE GARDEN and is offered with NO ONWARD CHAIN. 

EPC rating D. 

Lewis Way, Chepstow £240,000 

Detached Bungalow in Sought After Location. 2 Double 

bedrooms. New carpets throughout. Detached garage. 

Conservatory. Large plot. Updated kitchen. Lovely views. EPC 

rating C. 

Castlelea, Caldicot £299,950 

Immaculately Presented. Stunning Detached Bungalow. 

Driveway and Garage. Attractive Gardens. Four Bedrooms. 

Walking Distance to Town Centre. Must Be Seen. EPC rating E.

PROPERTIES 33 

bedroom 


Watsons Cottage, Symonds Yat West HR9 6BW Price 

pa black 01600 714355 www.pablack.co.uk 

£575,000 


bathroom 

bathroom 


living room with fireplace and a partially glazed garden room to the ground central central heating heating floor and four bedrooms, 



two en suite to the first floor. 

4 

bedroom bedroom living room living room etc etc 


bathroom 

2 3 1 




This lovingly refurbished and extended cottage is spacious yet cosy which includes a large dining kitchen, 

GAS 

parking 

This lovingly refurbished and extended cottage is finished to a high specification 

throughout with many bespoke fixtures and fittings. 

The accommodation 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. 

The beauty of this property also lies in the grounds that surround the property, totalling 

approximately two acres garage/covered they parking parking are mainly parking parkingsloping grassland with mature trees and 

meandering pathways giving access to secluded areas and a vegetable patch. 

There are three outbuildings that have been converted in to further accommodation and 

were previously run as a successful holiday let business. 

bedroom 


Portland House, Whitchurch, Ross-On-Wye 

pa black 01600 714355 www.pablack.co.uk 

This fine Georgian home boasts flexible accommodation that can be arranged to suit 

you. Currently run as a successful holiday let and bed and breakfast business there are 

seven en suite bedrooms which could be refigured to suit any new potential owners 

without much hassle. 

There is a large living room with a walk in bay window and an impressive fireplace as 

well as many other original features. Other accommodation includes a dining kitchen 

Price 

£575,000 



7 




bathroom 

bathroom 

3 7 

bathroom 



GAS 




Located in the well served village of Whitchurch, this impressive Georgian property boasts seven bedrooms, 


three generous reception rooms and has period features throughout. 

parking 

parking 

with separate utility, dining room with an imposing fireplace, sitting room, sun room, 

downstairs bathroom, boot room and downstairs cloakroom. 

The gardens are also not to 

garage/covered 

be overlooked. 

parking parking parking Accessed parking through bespoke iron gates there is 

an extensive bloc paved driveway to the front and to the rear is a level garden extending 

to approximately half an acre, made up of lawn and a variety of pleasant seating areas. 

Being in close proximity to the A40 the property is ideally placed for commuting.

34 ADVICE 

Coal Mining Search 

(3 of 4 articles in a series) 

by Sue Drew of Dobbs & Drew 

When you are buying a property your lawyer will advise you of certain searches that must be 

carried out to protect your interests as a buyer and any interests of a mortgage lender. 

Searches ascertain vital information about the property being purchased. If you 

are buying with the aid of a mortgage the searches are compulsory; if you are 

buying without a mortgage searches are optional but always recommended. 

One of those searches is a mining report and will be required by any buyer or 

mortgage lender when the subject property is in an area with past, present and future 

mining hazards. 

There are over 35 different past, present and planned mining hazards covered by 

various searches applicable to the particular area that the property is based: chalk, 

coal, brine, sandstone, limestone, tin, copper, lead, zinc, iron, ironstone and many 

more. 

The more applicable mining report in this local area would be coal mining. 

Property near to past mining activities may be at risk of being on unstable ground, 

sometimes called ‘subsidence’. 

A coal mining report gives information on: 

• mine entries within 20 metres of a property’s boundaries 

• subsidence claims made about brine pumping from Cheshire salt mines 

• gas emissions from coal mines 

• other coal mining hazards reported in the area 

• plans for future coal mining in the area. 

Opening hours 

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 

Saturday 10am to 1pm 

Dobbs & Drew 

Property Lawyers 

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

PROPERTIES 35 

Quirky 

Town 

Living 

bedroom 


St Mary Street, Monmouth 

Michael Skidmore 01600 714466 www.michaelskidmore.com 





Is there a garden? - Yes, private and large. Is there bathroom bathroom parking? - Yes and garaging. 


It is unusual to find the above in property to rent in a 

town setting. The house can be utilised very easily in 

different ways by using the rooms available, to meet the 

individual needs of any successful tenant applicants. 

The property really needs to be viewed to appreciate its 

versatility. The Kitchen is large enough to be used for 

sharing meals, there are 2 further rooms on the ground 

floor, a large Utility providing many storage cupboards, 

Price 

£900 PCM 

PROPERTY TO LET 

sink and space for a washing machine & drier. There is 

also access from this room to a large patio area, lawn and 

well stocked flower beds. The ground floor also provides 

a Shower Room. 

On the first floor there is a refurbished Bathroom, 2 

double Bedrooms and a very large room that can be used 

as Bedroom or delightful Sitting Room. 

Whilst access to the drive and garage can be made from 

3 



bathroom 

bathroom 


bathroom 




parking 

parking 


2 2 2 

St Mary Street, there is also a rear vehicular access via 

Glendower Street car park. 

Our clients are seeking professionally employed tenants 

who are non smokers and do not have pets, to enjoy this 

very conveniently positioned town property residence. 

The monthly rental for this property is £900 (with a bond 

of £900 also required). The EPC rating is F. The letting 

agent is Michael Skidmore Estate Agents, 01600 714466. 

GAS 

parking 

10 Monnow Street, Monmouth, 

Monmouthshire, NP25 3EE 

www.michaelskidmore.com 

ms@michaelskidmore.co.uk 

Tel: 01600 714466 

NEW 

TO LET 

MICHAEL SKIDMORE 

ESTATE AGENTS 

CHRISTCHURCH, COLEFORD OVERMONNOW MONMOUTH 

TO LET - NEW LEaSE 

zoopla.co.uk • onthemarket.com 

A unique property which is both spacious & deceptive. 4/5 Bedrooms. 

Versatile in layout. Incs. Extensive Workshop & Garaging facilities. Viewing 

essential in order to appreciate. Gas CH & D/G. 

Private Walled Garden. Awaiting EPC rating. 

£430,000 

No Upward Chain 

Surprisingly spacious 4 Bed Semi Det Home which has the 

added benefit of 2 Reception Rms & Conservatory to rear. 

Gas CH & D/G. 

EPC rating D. Bond required £775. 

£775 PCM 

No Upward Chain 

Former gent’s clothing shop (approx. 457 sq ft of retail) - 

suitable for many other trades. 

Prominent position opposite Shire Hall. 

More info & viewing via Agents. EPC rating D. 

£13,000 PER aNNUM 

MONMOUTH MONMOUTH MONMOUTH 

TO LET 

1 Bed Apartment which needs to be viewed in order to appreciate. 

Well presented with recently refitted shower room. 

Ideal for first time buy or investor. 

Added benefit of having its own Garage. EPC rating B. 

£129,500 

Call to view this spacious 4 Bed Town House in order to appreciate it fully! 

Just a short walk from the town’s main amenities yet with 

an above average sized garden with 2 Garages! 

Gas CH. EPC rating E. 

£449,950 

All rents quoted are subject to an additional administration fee paid by the tenants + deposit equivalent to 1 month’s rent. 

Quaint 2 Bed Town House which has been skilfully refurbished 

and well presented. Conveniently close to town centre & riverside. 

Private courtyard garden to rear. 

EPC rating E. Bond required £775.. 

£775 PCM

36 MARKETS 

‘Pension pot’ landlords 

urged to use caution 

A leading figure in the buy-to-let broker industry has called for would-be ‘pension pot’ landlords 

to seek advice before committing pension funds to property. 

Andrew Turner, chief executive at leading buy-to-let mortgage broker 

firm Commercial Trust Limited, said: “There has been renewed 

discussion recently of pension freedoms driving a new generation of 

potential buy-to-let investors. 

I firmly believe that, despite a lot of recent change in the industry, buyto-let 

remains a sound investment option. Further investment in buy-to-let 

properties is excellent news for the industry, the housing market in general 

and for tenants, particularly at a time when demand for rental properties is 

currently outstripping supply. 

However, any investment strategy needs careful forethought and 

planning, especially given the changes that the industry has experienced 

recently and those that are yet to come. I urge anyone new to buy-to-let to 

seek professional financial and tax advice first.” 

Turner’s comments followed the release of a new survey from Retirement 

Advantage, which underlined the appeal of buy-to-let investment among 

those approaching retirement age, with many seeing bricks and mortar as a 

viable way of funding their retirement. 

The survey of 1,005 people aged 50 over older, who have not yet retired 

and have some form of private pension savings, showed that 13% intend 

to invest in property once they reach retirement - a significant figure that 

could see an additional 1.3 million buy-to-let landlords in the coming 

years. 

Those surveyed indicated that they perceived buy-to-let to be an 

attractive method of attaining capital growth on their investment, with 50% 

looking to receive a regular income from rental properties and 44% aiming 

to boost their retirement income. 

The survey also showed that 36% believe that property is a safer 

investment than stocks and shares, with 35% feeling it would offer better 

returns than leaving money in a pension or bank. 

We welcome anyone who needs help regarding their buy-to-let 

mortgage needs to contact us. Interest rates are currently at an all-time low, 

political instability is influencing global investment markets and there is 

high demand for properties from tenants. Therefore there is good reason 

why shrewd people are seeing the appeal of buy-to-let mortgages. 

However, there are no guarantees regarding future interest rates or 

returns from property, pensions, bank accounts or stocks and shares. 

Rules introduced by the Government over the past couple of years have 

also brought significant change to the cost of buy-to-let and landlords have 

seen enormous taxation upheaval. Additionally, other legislation means 

there are a number of requirements that landlords have to meet such as the 

health and safety of their property and a tenant’s right to rent in the UK. 

Ultimately buy-to-let investment is a business and whilst there are 

support services available that can help to simplify property investment it is 

vital to have a clear picture of landlord obligations. 

I would urge anyone interested in investing in buy-to-let to seek 

appropriate professional advice on all aspects involved. 

This would commonly mean speaking to a financial advisor and tax 

specialist. If you need it a letting agent can help with the day to day running 

of a rental property (and ensuring you meet all property regulations), and 

as a specialist buy-to-let broker Commercial Trust can help to identify a 

mortgage solution that meets your circumstances and needs.” 

Andrew Tully, pensions technical director at Retirement Advantage, 

added: “The buy-to-let market looks set for a boom fuelled by the pension 

freedoms and in the process it will create a new generation of landlords. 

Warren Lewis propertyreporter.co.uk 

Lloyds announce £1,000 

cashback on remortgages 

Lloyds Bank has announced that it has launched 

a new cashback offer, refunding one standard 

monthly mortgage payment of up to £1,000 to 

customers who remortgage from another lender. 

The offer will be available for customers who apply 

for a mortgage before 12th November 2017. 

In addition, customers will benefit from free legals, 

free property assessment, no mortgage account fee, and 

no product fee on selected mortgages. 

Lloyds Bank remortgage products are available from 

1.99% for a two-year fixed rate up to 75% LTV.

INTERNATIONAL 

37 

Sales in Spain are still on the up 

Home sales in Spain soared by almost 50% in the first half of 2017, according to findings 

from estate agency Lucas Fox’s half yearly Spanish property market reports. 

In the first six months of 2017, the reports show sizeable increases 

in both the volume and value of sales transactions – up across all its 

regions by 47% and 55% respectively. 

Compared to the same period in 2017, there was also a rise in the 

number of national buyers, who accounted for 38% of all sales. British 

buyers, meanwhile, accounted for 10% of sales – down slightly on 2016 

– while 10% of sales in Spain were to buyers in the US and Canada. 

In total, some 32% of Lucas Fox buyers purchased a home as an 

investment, while the same number bought homes as a secondary 

residence and 23% of buyers purchased homes as a primary residence. 

During the first six months of this year, the average price of a 

property sold by Lucas Fox was €750,000. 

Alexander Vaughan, co-founder of Lucas Fox, told 

propertyinvestortoday.co.uk the agency had experienced an “extremely 

successful” first half to 2017, helped by Spain’s three biggest cities 

– Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia – as well as locations along the 

Barcelona coast. 

“Spain’s economy is the fastest growing in the Eurozone, bringing 

greater confidence back to the property market,” Vaughan said. “We 

have seen growing interest from property investors, who now regard 

Spanish real estate as offering excellent potential for capital gains and 

profitability through short and long term rentals. We expect that the 

price recovery now taking place in the cities will extend to the suburbs 

and other parts of the country in the forthcoming months.” 

International investors boost North 

West student property market 

According to The Mistoria Group, despite the proportion of overseas landlords 

with properties in London falling after the referendum and tax hikes, overseas 

investors are piling into student property in the North West. 

While the capital has seen the largest 

fall, with one in ten homes let 

this year owned by an overseas 

landlord, down from one in four in 2010, 

research from Savills shows the proportion 

of international investment flowing into the 

market has almost doubled in the last two 

years, with £1.2bn coming from Singapore 

alone in 2016. Around 25,000 new units have 

been completed for the start of this academic 

year, while a further 14,000 are already under 

construction for next year. 

The Mistoria Group has also seen demand 

for shared student property soar in the 

Manchester, Liverpool and Salford, up by 38% 

over the last 12 months, with the largest hike 

coming from international investors, up 36% 

year on year. 

Mish Liyanage, Managing Director of The 

Mistoria Group comments: “It’s no surprise 

student property in the North West is booming 

with international investors. A North-South 

divide has opened up in the buy-to-let market, 

as a result of soaring property prices in 

London and the South East, which has made 

the region unprofitable for investors. 

The tougher tax measures, political 

uncertainty and falling house prices in London 

have led international investors to look for 

alternative asset classes, farther afield. Many 

have been attracted by the high yields in the 

North West, which boasts the ten best buy-tolet 

locations in the UK, while the South has the 

ten worst locations. 

The type of international investors who 

were originally investing in the super-prime 

apartment bubble are now channeling 

their money into student flats and shared 

accommodation. Student property is the fastest 

growing sector of the market, giving investors 

strong returns that are well ahead of standard 

BTL. 

In the North West, an investor can acquire 

a high quality 3 bed HMO in Liverpool which 

will house for students, from £120,000 

onwards. The return on investment is very 

attractive too, with 13% -8% cash rental and 

5% capital growth.”

38 HOME IMPROVEMENTS 

Ready for Winter? 

As the nights draw in and we begin to turn our heating on again, 

now is the time to make sure your heating systems are safe and working 

as effectively as possible. 

Our trusted team of Gas Safe Registered 

engineers have already had a busy year – 

servicing, fixing and installing boilers and 

heating systems for our customers across south Wales. 

And as we move into the winter months they will be on 

hand to help you and your family stay warm. 

As well as staying warm, it’s important to keep 

everything running safely too. Gas appliances should be 

safety checked every year. This ensures your home stays 

warm all winter as well as peace of mind that you won’t 

be exposed to the dangers of poorly maintained gas 

appliances – which have the potential to be fatal. 

So don’t take a chance this season – get your gas and 

heating systems ready for winter with Capsel. 

Our one-off boiler service is just £55 and we offer a 

brand new boiler with full installation from just £1,450. 

Or get covered for the whole year with our boiler cover 

package which is just £15 per month. 

We also offer a Landlord gas safety certificate 

and check for just £16 per month (includes boiler 

service and visual check of all additional appliances + 

certificate) 

Call our friendly team on 0333 207 9000 or email 

info@capsel.co.uk to book an appointment. 

To find out more about all Capsel services and what 

we can do for you visit www.capsel.co.uk. 

David Cox, Chief Executive, ARLA 

Propertymark reiterates support for Gas Safety 

Week: 

“As Gas Safety Week draws to a close, 

ARLA Propertymark highlights the campaign 

and the importance of gas safety. Agents and 

landlords are legally responsible for the safety 

of their tenants, so it’s important they ensure 

that maintenance and annual safety checks on 

gas appliances are carried out by a Gas Safe 

registered engineer. In the last three years, there 

have been 22 deaths and nearly 1,000 gasrelated 

injuries, and Gas Safety Week gives us an 

opportunity to reiterate the need for better safety 

measures in rental properties. 

“Providing a Gas Safety Certificate to tenants 

is already a legal requirement for landlords, 

and provides peace of mind for tenants that the 

property and its appliances are safe. Renters 

shouldn’t be afraid to demand this document if 

they aren’t given it at the start of an agreement. 

It’s now time for the Government to make best 

practice legal, and enforce compulsory carbon 

monoxide alarms in every rented property. At 

the moment, they only need to be in rooms with 

solid fuel burning, but we should be doing all we 

can to protect tenants.” 

Gas & heating services designed to suit you 

Get your gas and heating system safe 

and ready for winter with Capsel 

One-off boiler 

service 

New boiler 

installation 

Capsel 

boiler cover 

Landlords safety 

certificate 

£55 

£1,450 

£15 

per month 

£55 

Terms & conditions apply 

T: 0333 207 9000 • E: info@capsel.co.uk • www.capsel.co.uk 

MHA0731

MONMOUTHSHIRE 

CONSERVATORY COMPANY 

CONSERVATORIES . ORANGERIES . UPVC & ALUMINIUM WINDOWS 

SECONDARY GLAZING . DOORS . GREENHOUSES . GARDEN BUILDINGS 

Composite doors prove a popular choice for many of our customers. 

As you can see, with so many styles and colours to choose from, you 

can create the perfect door to flatter your home. Country sage green 

or striking red, a stable door or an art deco finish – this product is as 

diverse as they come. 

We do however have a couple of factors that stay consistent throughout 

these designs - security, durability and energy efficiency. Whatever 

the style or colour, you can rest assured that your new door will 

display resilient security for the entrance of your home. A product 

that’s built to last, these doors also offer fantastic energy efficiency, 

leaving no drafts or heat loss. 

For more information on our range of doors, please visit our website. 

Here you can download our various brochures, allowing you to 

peruse our products at your leisure. 

“I love my front door 

from MCC. When I tell 

people where I live, they 

often say ‘the one with 

the lovely door?’ 

It’s completely changed 

the look of our house, 

I love it!” 

Ms Heath 

MONMOUTHSHIRE CONSERVATORY COMPANY 

Pengethley Garden Centre 

Peterstow 

Tel: 01989 730 551 Fax: 01989 730 596 

info@monmouthshireconservatorycompany.co.uk 

Ross-on-Wye 

www.monmouthshireconservatorycompany.co.uk 

Herefordshire 

HR9 6LL

CALL: 01600 711680 

EMAIL: INFO@THEPROPERTYDROP.CO.UK 

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Property Drop Issue 13

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