Easton Residential Magazine

EASTON RESIDENTIAL : MEET THE TEAM
Glenn Jackson
Director
Glenn has worked within the industry for the last 30 Years ever since leaving school. Before
opening the Business in December 2007 he did his training with a large independent
Estate Agency in Bath and has since ran both independent and corporate offices in, Bristol,
Winchester, Basingstoke and Southampton. Always focused on delivering the best possible
service and results for the client he is still at the forefront of the operation from initial
valuations to handing over keys upon completion. He is a trustee of a local charity and does
lots of fundraising work in the background for such. Suffering from Multiple Sclerosis himself
he knows only too well the daily obstacles many of us have to over come. He is a keen
swimmer and golfer and reminds the team often that he is the disabled British Open Nett
Champion Golfer of 2023 and Runner Up in the same event in 2024.
Lisa Mitch
Lisa’s now been with us for seven
years and is an integral part of our
team. Not only does she manage the
lettings portfolio but also the staff
and branch to exceptionally high
standards. A vital cog in our team
there is no- one better to roll up
sleeves and sort issues yet supplying
vital information to anyone buying,
selling or renting. She lives locally
with her husband, two children and
three dogs.
Carole Waters
Carole has been with us for over four
years now. From using us to sell her
home we acted quickly on bringing
her on board. Her customer service
and communication is second to
none and knowledge of the local
area and each of the properties we
sell or let being endless. She lives
locally with her daughter.
Jen Guy-Gibbens
Jen’s now been with us for over twelve
years and works predominately
with Lisa on maintaining our rental
portfolio. She lives locally with her
husband and son and is forever
running around sorting an endless
maintenance list. Her organisation
and customer skills are exquisite and
whenever there’s a problem, don’t
call the A-Team, call Jen!
Carrie Langdale
Carrie has recently joined our team
and helps Lisa and Jen run our
rental portfolio.She lives locally with
her children and pets. She’s rarely
in the office usually carrying out
inspections or sorting maintenance
issues.
Claire Bushell
Claire has immense knowledge in
our industry having practised estate
agency for over 30 years. She has run
both corporate and independent
branches in Kent and Hampshire and
is phenomenal at sorting chains and
issues.She lives in Holbury with her
husband and daughter let alone the
horses and numerous pets.
Mark Parfitt
Mark’s been with us since the start
of our removals operation back
in 2009. He’s moved people to all
ends of the UK, to Ireland, Denmark,
France, Germany and Spain. His
knowledge is immense so call him
today for any advice on how to pack
or prepare for the forthcoming move.
www.eastonresidential.co.uk
3

WHY US?
Why use us?
With over 80 Years accumulative experience,
in buying, selling or renting there are very few
obstacles or situations we can’t overcome.
Just a few questions to ask yourself when
appointing an agent working to sell what is most
individuals biggest personal asset.
In todays world anyone can take photos,
measurements and promote your home on the
web. The art though in our industry is in the
negotiation of the price and the progressing of the
deal.
A good local Estate Agent doesn’t exist because
we take a good photo or make you a nice cup
of tea when you visit our offices. It’s because we
take pride in our job and work tirelessly to ensure
you achieve a) the best possible price, b) from the
best possible buyer (not necessarily the first and
c) with the check out each element of a sale best
possible timescales. It is vital to check out each
of a sale before agreeing terms. We know through
vast experience that few agents will do so and
especially those with no hight street presence.
An out of area agent doesn’t know local market
conditions, they are not aware of all the planning
regulations nor likely to use a local lawyer that
knows our patch inside out. Knowing the local
surveyors and solicitors personally is vital to the
successful management of your case. We can
identify potential issues before they arise and deal
with them minimising any stress or expense. The
web maybe full of information but an experienced
local agent will know how to use this and in what
context. Saying the wrong thing and the wrong
time will cost you greatly.
Just by reading this will make you realise how
passionate we are about you and helping you
achieve your goal. Speak to friends and family and
ask them which agents they have used and would
they use them again. Recommendation is by far
the best advice.
Our advice however is to call a few agents, see
what they have to say and focus on finding one
that works for you and has a personal interest.
You want to ensure that the person who you meet
when they are valuing your home will also will also
be with you for the completion date too. So often
staff in corporate and internet agencies change
like the wind and you need continuity. Choosing
an agent who will guide you from start to finish
will pay huge dividends both financially and stress
wise.
Easton just ask for the opportunity to prove what
we can do and allow our experience, empathy and
determination to benefit you. After all it’s fair to
4 4 www.eastonresidential.co.uk

ELECTRIMEC
LTD
say the difference in fee may be hundreds but
the cost of bad negotiation and the choice of
agent will cost you thousands.
Pre Contract Deposits
Ever since covid we have been insistent on buyers
lodging a nominal £500 pre contract deposit. The
reason we do this is to eradicate time wasters
or non sincere buyers. We acted very quickly
after the covid era when we’d put a house on the
market, get flooded with viewings and offers only
to have the successful bidder withdraw their offer
within days and we had to go through the whole
scenario again. Then exactly the same happened
next time round. By instigating the deposit
scheme were able to weed out timewasters and
focus on really genuine buyers. After all if they
aren’t prepared to lodge a £500 deposit then
how serious are they?
YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER
FOR SAFE AND SMART
ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS
Electrimec Ltd is a Hampshire-based,
NIC EIC approved contractor offering all
aspects of electrical work from heavy
industrial to commercial & domestic
Fully qualified & insured, reliable
electrical contractor with 21+ years
experience in the industry
Tel: 07786 081356
matt@electrimecltd.co.uk
We do however give them a get out clause for the
following reasons –
1. The property fails on survey
2. A defective title or legal issues that cannot be
resolved means they have to withdraw
3. You as the seller were to withdraw from the
transaction
4. The chain were to collapse through no fault of
the buyer
5. A serious issue or health problem forced them
to withdraw
Yet if they chose to withdraw at anytime then the
£500 will be transferred to you to help contribute
towards legal costs.
If the lawyers haven’t allowed for the £500 in
the contract then we’ll return it to the buyer in
full immediately upon exchange of contracts. Its
simple go through with the deal and you won’t
lose the £500. This also helps you as a buyer
when you can say to the onward seller or estate
agent that your buyer has already lodged a pre
contract deposit.
Empowering
change through
hypnosis
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Weight Management
• Confidence
• ADHD
• Phobias
Carole Waters
Solution Focused Hypnotherapist
Fawley, New Forest - 07917822910
www.crownhypnotherapy.co.uk
www.eastonresidential.co.uk
5

THINKING OF
MOVING HOME?
The Waring Partnership has helped
thousands of people sell their properties
and move to new homes. It’s one of our
core services, so that’s why you can rest
assured that you’re in good hands with us.
And it’s not just residential sales and
purchases that we specialise in. We can also
help with auctions, investment properties,
commercial leases, and the sales and
purchases of businesses. Regardless of
your need, we’ve got the experience and
knowledge to put your mind at ease.
Our professional and friendly staff will
guide you through the process, help you
make sense of the jargon, and all with
the minimum of fuss. So if you’re thinking
of moving, get in touch with the Waring
Partnership today.
Conveyancing • Family Law • Wills & Probate
8 Marsh Parade, Hythe
Tel: 023 8084 9381
info@the-waring-partnership.com
www.the-waring-partnership.com
15 Water Lane, Totton
Tel: 023 8066 0010

Your Trusted Legal Experts in
Hampshire and Beyond...
At The Waring Partnership, we’re more than just
solicitors – we’re your dedicated partners in navigating
life’s legal complexities. With offices in Hythe and
Totton, Hampshire, we combine local accessibility with
national reach, ensuring exceptional service for every
client. Our mission is simple: to make legal services
transparent, convenient, and tailored to your needs.
Why Choose Us
Expertise You Can Rely On
Every case is personally overseen by a qualified
solicitor, ensuring your matter is handled with the
utmost care and professionalism. Whether you’re
buying your first home, drafting a will, or navigating
family law, you’ll benefit from real specialism and
decades of experience.
Convenience That Fits Your Life
Visit us at our offices for a confidential discussion in our
private meeting rooms, or choose a virtual appointment
via Zoom, Teams, or FaceTime – the choice is yours.
Transparent Services, Honest Pricing
We believe in clarity. From our expertise to our fees,
we’re open about every aspect of our service, so you
always know what to expect.
Our Services
Conveyancing
Moving home or expanding your business? Our
property law team, led by Andrea Waring, ensures
your transaction proceeds smoothly and stress-free.
Whether it’s residential conveyancing, commercial
leases, or buying and selling businesses, we’re here to
help.
Wills and Probate
Planning for the future? Let our experienced team
guide you through drafting wills, creating trusts, and
managing estates with sensitivity and care. Matthew
Knight, our specialist with substantial expertise, also
offers Notary Public services for your convenience.
Family Law
Life’s transitions can be challenging. Our family law
experts provide pragmatic, tailored advice, from divorce
and financial settlements to child custody matters. With
fixed fee options and personalised packages, we deliver
value and support to suit your unique circumstances.
Our Flexible
Consultation Options
We offer two initial consultation packages:
Package 1: A one-hour consultation for £150
(including VAT).
Package 2: A one-hour consultation with a full typed
attendance note for £210 (including VAT).
Our fixed price divorce package starts at £500 (plus VAT
and expenses), with further fixed fee options available
after an initial consultation.
Let’s Talk
Whether you’re seeking expert advice or a trusted
solicitor for ongoing support, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to arrange your consultation and
discover how we can assist with your legal needs.
The Waring Partnership LLP
8 Marsh Parade
Hythe Hants SO45 6AN
Tel: 02380 849381
Email: info@the-waring-partnership.com
the-waring-partnership.com
7

Interior Design Trends for
2025 and Beyond
Interior design is evolving with a renewed focus on
sustainability, personalisation, and cutting-edge
technology. Homeowners are embracing trends that
reflect their values, lifestyles, and aspirations. Let’s
explore the key design directions that will define the
future of interiors.
Eco-friendly choices take centre stage
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a way of life.
In 2025, expect an increased demand for eco-friendly
materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and
biodegradable textiles. Designers are also opting for
low-VOC paints, energy-efficient lighting, and furniture
crafted with longevity in mind. Sustainability is now
seamlessly integrated into every aspect of interior
design, ensuring that beauty and ethics go hand in han
Creating harmony between
home and nature
The connection between nature and wellbeing
continues to influence design choices. Biophilic design
will flourish, with more homes incorporating living
walls, indoor gardens, and water features. Natural
materials like stone and rattan, alongside earthy
palettes and organic shapes, will dominate interiors.
This trend not only enhances aesthetics but also
promotes mental health and relaxation.
Spaces that adapt to you
With hybrid work and lifestyle changes here to stay,
multifunctional spaces are becoming a necessity.
Customisation is key, with furniture and layouts tailored
to individual needs. Think modular sofas, foldaway
desks, and smart dividers that transform a living room
into a home office or a dining area. Homeowners
are seeking designs that maximise utility without
compromising on style.
The smart home gets smarter
Smart technology will continue to revolutionise
interiors. Voice-activated systems, automated lighting,
and app-controlled appliances are becoming staples.
Beyond functionality, tech will also enhance aesthetics.
Imagine colour-changing walls or furniture with built-in
wireless charging. The focus is on seamless integration—
tech that blends effortlessly into your home’s design.
Final Thoughts
The future of interior design is an exciting blend of
innovation, sustainability, and personalisation. Whether
you’re redesigning your living room or building a new
home, these trends provide endless inspiration to
create a space that’s stylish, functional, and uniquely
yours. As we look to 2025 and beyond, the focus is clear:
interiors that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful.
8 www.eastonresidential.co.uk

Download the Scott Bailey
moving checklist:
A guide to buying and
selling your home
Looking for legal advice?
We can help with both personal and business services. Our expert
solicitors deliver intelligent, common sense solutions, whatever situation
you may be facing.
01590 676933 law@scottbailey.co.uk
63 High Street, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 9ZT

EASTON LETTINGS
A comprehensive property letting service...
As Residential Letting and Managing Agents we provide a
comprehensive property letting service and for first time
landlords we offer a free no obligation advice session.
This will provide an opportunity to discuss the basic
requirements of letting your property and also any
pitfalls, which may be encountered. If you are thinking of
buying a property to let we will be happy to advise you
about its suitability
TENANT FIND SERVICE
• Extensively advertise your property via the internet,
local advertising and four local window displays.
• Arrange and conduct viewings with prospective
tenants. All of which are accompanied.
• Carry out a full advanced references on all adults
intending to live in the property, this reference
includes a unique guarantee that we will help remove
your tenant from your property should they stop
paying their rent. It also includes an insurance that
will cover all legal fees involved.
• Prepare our standard tenancy agreement and any
other associated documents.
• Collect the deposit (equivalent of 5 week’s rent)
together with the first month’s rental due under the
terms of the tenancy. The deposit is then lodged with
an approved scheme.
• Conduct a check in with the tenant which includes
the reading of all meters and approval of the
inventory. Please remember your obligations as a
landlord – an up to date Gas Safety Certificate, proof
of buildings insurance and an Energy Performance
Certificate.
FULLY MANAGED SERVICE
If this option is chosen we shall do all of that included in
the tenant find option plus –
• Carry out an inspection one month following
the check in and then every quarter thereafter.
Should we have any concerns then we’ll notify you
immediately.
• Provide appliance breakdown and maintenance
coverage via a separate party to ourselves. This will
obviously be charged to you but fully itemised.
• In an emergency reserve the right to carry out
required repairs. These repairs will be deducted from
the rental income.
• Collect the monthly rent and pay this directly to you
minus our fee. Should the rent not be paid or be late
again we shall notify you accordingly.
• Conduct a check out to ensure correct meter
readings are noted and the property left in a
satisfactory condition.
• Return the deposit to the tenant at the end of the
term subject to the property being vacated. If you
or an appointed representative wishes to inspect the
property then we ask for this to be conducted within
ten days of the tenant departing.
• Send you monthly statements itemising any income
and expenditure.
We ask that in disputes over damages between landlord
and tenant that the agent’s decision is final.
LANDLORD SCALE OF CHARGES
- FULLY MANAGED SERVICE
• Property Valuation
• Advertising and Marketing
• Arrange and accompany all viewings
• Find and fully reference suitable tenants
• Register deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme
• Prepare a legally up to date Assured Shorthold
Tenancy Agreement
• Prepare and provide a Full colour inventory
• Attend the Check In, take meter readings and notify
utility companies
• Telephone and face to face contact for both landlord
and tenant
• Emergency out of hours telephone number for
maintenance issues
• Periodic inspection reports sent in writing or by email
• All maintenance jobs arranged and monitored
• Monthly rental collection
• Prepare and issue all relevant up to date and legal
notices.
LET ONLY SERVICE
• Property Valuation
• Advertising and Marketing
• Arrange and accompany all viewings
10 www.eastonresidential.co.uk

• Find and fully reference suitable tenants
• Register deposit with the Tenancy Deposit
Scheme
• Prepare a legally up to date Assured Shorthold
Tenancy Agreement
• Prepare and provide a Full colour inventory
• Attend the Check In, take meter readings and
notify utility companies
TENANT FIND
• Property Valuation
• Advertising and Marketing
• Arrange and accompany all viewings
• Find and fully reference suitable tenants
TENANT REFERENCING
AND PROGRESS PROCEDURE
Should you find one of our properties suitable after
an internal viewing then we will provide you with the
appropriate referencing forms for you to complete.
Please note you will NOT be charged for this yet the
landlord of this particular property is insistent on a
full reference of their choice being provided before
any tenancy will be granted. Nor will you be charged
a fee if a guarantor is needed.
Once the forms have been completed and returned
we shall require a holding deposit equivalent to
one weeks rent to be lodged immediately. This is
will then be deducted from your first months rent
subject to a satisfactory reference being obtained.
Upon receipt of this holding deposit the property
will be removed from the market and marked as
let subject to contract. We will also provide you
with a draft copy of our Assured Shorthold Tenancy
Agreement.
In the event that either us or our landlord withdraw
the property from yourselves then your holding
deposit will be returned in full within 7 days. If you
however provide false or misleading information, fail
the referencing process , withdraw from the property
through your own choice then our landlord can
indeed retain this holding deposit. Should this be
the case then we will confirm by email or in writing
why this is the case.
Once the application has been approved we
will arrange a date that you wish the tenancy to
commence.
Pets are not accepted as standard however if you
have a pet and the landlord agrees then no fee will
be charged or increased deposit will be taken. Your
landlord however may wish to charge a higher rent
each month for pets to be considered.
A short hold tenancy agreement will be drawn up
between you and your landlord.
A detailed inventory will be carried out and listed
with colour photographs and a condition report of
which you will be given a copy.
Your deposit will be registered with the Tenancy
Deposit Scheme if the property is managed by
ourselves or if in the case of the landlord managing
we will inform you of the custodial scheme chosen.
On the day that you move in we will carry out a
‘check in’ service at the property to hand over keys,
take meter readings and go through the inventory
and provide copies of all necessary legal paperwork.
As Residential Letting and Managing Agents we
provide a comprehensive property letting service
and for first time landlords we offer a free no
obligation advice session. This will provide an
opportunity to discuss the basic requirements of
letting your property and also any pitfalls, which
may be encountered. If you are thinking of buying a
property to let we will be happy to advise you about
its suitability.
www.eastonresidential.co.uk
11

EASTON REMOVALS
Make your house
move easy with
EASTON
REMOVALS
Professional, hard working
and putting people first!
Having seen so many people let down and struggling
for a removal company on this vital day we quickly
identified the need to offer this service and now see this
element continuing to grow.
We operate anywhere in the UK with a simple ethos in
mind, to make your move easier!
From studio flats to detached family homes we are here
to make your move easier. It is often said that the best
investment you can make on moving day is to hire the
services of a removal company. With all the running
around and collection of keys, allow us to take the
pressure off and put everything in the new home where
it should be.
Our operatives will take meticulous care of your
possessions to ensure a smooth transition is achieved
anywhere in the UK. Whether it’s a man and van to a
full packing and removal service, call us now to arrange
our Removal Manager to come along and discuss your
requirements. Our quotes are completely free of charge
and conducted under no obligation.
MOVING HOME?
Get in touch with us today
07894 354372
Home Removals
As one of the leading removal companies in
Southampton and New Forest areas Easton
Removals can safely deliver your goods, whether
it’s a few miles or a few hundred miles. With years
of experience in House Removals, Eastons can
help you.
Call us today on 023 8024 3866
Home Moving
Built on high standards. Once you have decided
to move call Eastons and we will arrange for one
of our experienced team around to discuss your
requirements. From heavy removals like pianos,
to packing precious chinaware Eastons will make
your move easier!
Boxes and packaging
Easton Removals offers a full packing service. Our
team will come prior to your move and pack all
your possessions ready for your move, this frees
up your time and lets you concentrate on your
move.
Secure storage
Easton Removals works in conjunction with
Strongroom Storage. We can offer great deals
on secure storage. With 24/7 access and CCTV
monitoring.
12 www.eastonresidential.co.uk

VIRTUAL TOURS
Step Inside Before You Step
Through the Door with
Easton’s Free Virtual Tours!
At Easton we feel it is vital to ensure every viewer on your home is
fully informed before the step over the threshold. Our Virtual Tours
are conducted on all properties for sale and provide a fantastic walk
through experience for all buyers.
POWERED BY
RICOH360
They even get used by surveyors instead of doing full internal
inspections. They are completely free of charge to all our customers
with our software and equipment updated on a regular basis.
www.eastonresidential.co.uk
13

TOP TIPS...
BEFORE YOU BUY, MAKE SURE YOU
REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING:
• Be prepared to view as soon as possible – the best properties
in the market generate the most interest, so don’t waste time
when it comes to buying your new home
• Put yourself in a position to buy – qualify yourself for a
mortgage as soon as possible. When buying a property it is
worth providing your estate agent with as much information
as possible, from your property being chain free to your
readiness to proceed with the purchase.
• Multiple viewings – try and view the property more than once
at different times of the day especially at weekends, when
everyone is at home and at rush hour to check how local
roads may be affected by congestion. If this property is to be
yours, then you need to have as much information as possible
about not only the house but also the surrounding area.
• Look beneath the surface – when buying a house it is
important to make an impartial judgement based on every
aspect of the property. Make sure you distinguish between
major work and ‘cosmetic’ work. Don’t let your judgment be
clouded.
• Protect yourself – property surveys maybe expensive but
NEW FOREST SKIP BAG
THE SOLUTION FOR
MOVING YOUR WASTE
Offering the removal and recycle of:
• GARDEN GREEN WASTE
• DIY
• METAL
• SHEDS & GARAGE CLEAROUTS
• AGGREGATES DELIVERED
Fully insured and registered with over 30 years
experience in the recycling industry.
Holds a valid waste carriers licence.
Phone for a FREE Quote.
07879820009
they can uncover any major defects which
may help you renegotiate on price or even
reconsider the purchase.
• Location, location, location – research the
local schools, shops, parking, transport,
journey to work and neighbours to get a
good feel of what it will be like to live there.
Your dream house may not be so idyllic upon
further investigation.
• Don’t rule out offering the full asking price
- if you find your ideal home and it is priced
correctly, consider offering the full asking
price to avoid losing out. By bidding correctly
and accurately for your desired property you
stand a much greater chance of securing the
house without being outbid or rivalled.
• Ask lots of direct questions about the
property – if this is going to be the property
of your dreams then ask as many questions
as you can about it. Remember to ask about
any previous building work that has been
undertaken, as well as any major faults that
have been highlighted.
• Remember, the estate agent works for the
vendor – the agent is working on behalf of
the seller so be willing and eager to view
properties so that you’re top of the agent’s
list to call. Stay in regular contact so they are
aware of your interest in their properties.
• Don’t be put off by a property that is on the
market at a low price compared to others in
the area – in this housing market some of the
best deals are sold on behalf of developers
and lenders and are priced to sell quickly.
These properties include some of the best
value houses around, so remember to give
these your consideration.

RYAN
GIFT FLOWERS FOR SAME DAY,
LOCAL DELIVERY IN AND AROUND
WATERSIDE AND NEW FOREST AREAS
• FRESH BOUQUETS FOR ALL OCCASIONS
• SYMPATHY FLOWERS
• CORPORATE ARRANGEMENTS
• MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTIONS
• CARDS AND GIFTS
• WORKSHOPS
3 MAIN ROAD, MARCHWOOD,
SOUTHAMPTON SO40 4UZ
CALL US ON 02380 663717
OR 07769 902350
newforestflowers.co.uk
FENCING
Quality Fencing & Gates
Your trusted experts for high-quality
fences and gates! Whether it’s for
privacy, security, or style, we deliver
durable, professional installations
tailored to your needs.
CALL: 07769 706516
OR 023 8084 1203
CHARTERED SURVEYORS
Chartered Surveyors
in the New Forest
Building Surveys | RICS Homebuyer Reports | Dilapidations | Snagging | Valuations
Friendly, approachable
Chartered Surveyors
Kevin Shaw & Associates are an experienced,
independent firm of Chartered Surveyors
based in Brockenhurst. Offering a range
of valuation and building survey services,
designed to suit all manner of properties,
whether you’re buying, selling or simply
looking to improve an existing property.
Our Credentials
Having undertaken residential surveys
across the New Forest for over a decade,
we offer in depth knowledge when it
comes to valuations and building surveys.
Our reports are built on years of experience
and an understanding of local markets,
house prices and the practical aspects of
construction.
Surveys to suit you
We offer a range of survey and valuation
products to suit you, whether you’re
buying, selling or simply improving your
existing property.
n RICS Condition Survey
n RICS Homebuyer (Survey)
n RICS Homebuyer (Survey & Valuation)
n RICS Building Survey
n KSA Bespoke Building Survey
n Property Valuation
n Snagging Report (for New Properties)
01590 624880 kshawmrics@googlemail.com www.shaw-surveyors.co.uk Accredited and
regulated by

TAKE A
FRESH LOOK
AT MOVING
HOME
With Easton
Residential
you’re with
the best of the
bunch!
Tel: 023 8024 3866
sales@eastonresidential.co.uk

Mark Bulley Limited
Mortgage
& Protection
Planning
Whole of market Mortgage Adviser, able to look
at standard and non-standard residential and
Buy to Let mortgages and re-mortgages,
further advances and product transfers
Wendy Cull CeMap
02380 019 701
07881 783 011
wendy@wbfinancial.co.uk
Ground Floor HCE School Lane
Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate
Eastleigh SO53 4DG
Buy To Let Mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Mark Bulley Ltd is an appointed representative of Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited which is authorised
& regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Mark Bulley Ltd is registered in England & Wales.
Company No. 04541235. Registered Address: Skyline Rownhams Lane. Rownhams. Southampton. Hampshire. SO168AP
ABLE
ENERGY
ASSESSORS
YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER
IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Certified and experienced energy assessors
providing EPCs and tailored energy advice for
homes and businesses. Let us help you reduce
costs and improve efficiency.
CALL TODAY ON 07917 368 433
e: ABLEENERGYASSESSORS@GMAIL.COM
ZONE (HAMPSHIRE) LTD
COVERING ALL PLUMBING, HEATING, DRAINAGE
& VENTILATION PROJECTS IN HAMPSHIRE AND
SURROUNDING AREA
• BOILER INSTALLATION,
SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
• GAS SAFETY INSPECTIONS
• FULL BATHROOM
REFURBISHMENTS
• GENERAL PLUMBING
PLUS MECHANICAL VENTILATION WITH
HEAT RECOVERY SERVICES
TEL: 07983344664 OR 07464 971156
E: ZONEHEAT@HOTMAIL.COM
Looking to gain
planning permission
on a garden plot?
Take the hassle out of planning permission,
contact us today on:
jack@satdevelopments.co.uk

TOP TIPS...
ENERGY SAVING
IN YOUR HOME
Ask the right questions
Whether you’re looking to buy a or rent a new home or
wondering how to assess your own home, here’s what to
look out for to make sure your energy bills are as low as
they can be.
Check the Energy Performance
Certificate rating
All domestic and commercial buildings in the
UK available to buy or rent must have an Energy
Performance Certificate (EPC). If you own a home,
getting an energy performance survey done could help
you identify ways to save money on your energy bills.
Much like the multi-coloured sticker on new appliances,
EPCs tell you how energy efficient a building is and give
it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient): the
lower the efficiency, the more the home will cost to run.
How is the home heated?
Gas heating costs a lot less to run and is more energy
efficient than electric alternatives. Ask the landlord or
seller to leave behind any heating control instructions
so you can set your controls to only heat the rooms you
want to. If they can’t find them, you can download them
from the manufacturers’ website. Check if radiators can
be adjusted in each room, whereby you can heat the
rooms you need.
Is the loft insulated?
Loft insulation is one of the most efficient ways to keep
heat from escaping in a home. The thickness of the
insulation plays an important role but it’s easy to top
up if there’s some there but not enough. 270mm is the
recommended depth. To give an idea of cost savings,
topping up from 100mm to 270mm can save around £25
a year on heating bills.
What’s in the walls?
A third of the heat in an un-insulated home is lost
through the walls. There are two wall types – solid walls
and cavity walls. Both can be insulated to improve the
energy efficiency of a property. If the home was built
from 1920 onwards there is a good chance it has cavity
walls. A home with uninsulated cavity walls could cost up
to £140 more to run each year than one with insulated
cavities, so it’s worth finding out the state of play.
If you’ve fallen in love with a home with uninsulated
cavity walls, it’s not difficult to get it fixed. Installation
costs are about £450 to £500 but you should make this
back in about four years.
Homes built before 1920 are likely to have solid walls.
Solid walls may sound like they should be better at
keeping in heat but unfortunately the opposite is true.
Uninsulated solid walls can lose heat twice as fast as
uninsulated cavity walls, but insulating them could save
over £460 each year – so if you’re looking to move into
an older build, make sure you ask about the insulation.
The newer the boiler, the better
The latest boilers are a lot more energy efficient than
older models. Check the age of the boiler and if it is
Energy Saving Trust recommended. If the landlord/seller
doesn’t know, you can find out the energy efficiency of
different boilers at the Boilers.org.uk website. Boilers
have energy ratings, much in the same way as homes.
Once again, A is the most energy efficient and G is the
lowest. Replacing a G rated boiler could save around
£310 a year on running costs.
Look out for draughts
Check round windows and doors for gaps. If it’s a windy
day and a home is particular draughty, you can often
hear the whistle of wind as it sweeps through the
property. It’s quite easy to draught proof homes and
there are lots of DIY options available. Draught proofing
can save up to £55 a year on heating costs.
Save water, save money
A water meter is a great way to keep in control of your
water usage and stop you flushing money down the
drain. Check the home for dripping taps, which can waste
gallons of water a day. It’s also worth asking if the shower
has an energy saving shower head. These save water and
money but still give you a powerful shower experience.
The lighter way to save energy
Does the property have energy saving light bulbs or
fittings? If so, will the landlord or seller be leaving these
light bulbs behind? If not, invest in your own before you
move in.
18 www.eastonresidential.co.uk

TOP TIPS...
LIGHT UP YOUR HOME
The right lighting in your home can add
style, atmosphere and warmth as well
practicality. There are options on the
market for all budgets, rooms and purposes.
Consider the room
Before you head out to the local DIY store, it’s essential
to consider the room itself. The amount of natural light
entering the room will play an important role. While a
sunny, south-facing living room may be flooded with
daylight much of the year round, that north-facing spare
bedroom may require a bolder lighting approach. Also
look at features or work areas that would benefit from
specific mood or task lighting. With your room in mind,
you will be better placed to find the perfect solution,
both practical and atmospheric.
Living room
As the room where many of us spend much of their time,
the living room requires a combination of functional
and mood lighting. A ceiling pendant or recessed down
lighters are great if you want a brightly-lit room, but
often a softer approach is required. Table or standard
lamps that throw the light upwards can help to achieve
a cosy glow, while accent lights can add visual interest
by highlighting a stylish piece of furniture, ornament or
painting.
Dining room
As a place that is generally used for entertainment, the
dining room requires overhead lighting that enables
dinner guests to see each other, but come coffee time,
a little mood lighting goes a long way. Track lights or a
pendant directly over a feature dining table are ideal for
conversation, but try up lighters or standard lamps for an
ambient after dinner light.
Kitchen
Task lighting is a must in the kitchen to ensure that work
surfaces are well-lit. Under-cupboard lights do just that,
while track lighting of recessed ceiling spotlights can also
help to highlight particular areas for utilitarian purposes.
If your kitchen is also the social hub of the house,
consider wall lights or halogen spotlights, perhaps with a
dimmer to soften the clinical feel.
Bathroom
Much like the kitchen, a pendant or down lights are a
must for what is often the room with the least amount
of natural light. But halogen spotlights focused on the
shower, or basin can soften the brightness - particularly
useful if you tend to use an ensuite during the night!
There are plenty of bathroom mirrors with lights inbuilt
on the market, which are great if you spend a lot of time
primping and preening, while a dimmer switch can set
the tone for that all-important long, luxurious bubble
bath, ensuring that the lighting method is compliant with
health & safety regulations of course!
Bedroom
The bedroom requires both atmosphere and practicality.
While you don’t want to be stumbling about in the night,
you won’t want to wake your partner either. Well placed,
a down light or floor lamp offers a pool of light that
shouldn’t disturb the sleeping partner, while bedside
lamps are a must if you’re a night time reader. Light bulbs
in softer colours will create a more peaceful atmosphere.
www.eastonresidential.co.uk
19

Easton Residential
77-79 Long Lane, Holbury SO45 2ND
Tel: 023 8024 3866
sales@eastonresidential.co.uk
www.eastonresidential.co.uk