It’s a family affair – new Tipi build to rent London apartments prove perfect for family living

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Tipi

48% of landlords rent to families with children (NLA)
Apartments with hotel-style service and utilities included in the rent, appeals to London’s families (Tipi)

The prevalence of families living in the private rented sector is increasing and for the first time has overtaken couples as tenants. The days of a clear path from getting married to buying your first home to having children are long gone. The latest data from the National Landlords Association (NLA) shows that landlords renting to families with children in the build to rent market have become more common than those renting to young couples for the first time – at 48% compared to 47% respectively. According to the NLA’s data, it is the first time that families have been the most prevalent type of household unit, as the clear benefits of a professional landlord offering leasing with no lettings fees is becoming clearer.

In the decade from 2004/05 to 2014/15, families living in build to rent units have grown from 30% to 37%. Improving standards across the sector mean that many families with children now see renting as a stable, long term prospect, offering a lifestyle as well as a home.

The UK’s lack of housing, particularly in cities, is also contributing to the rise of build to rent as the option of choice for families. The disparity between salaries and house prices, which in London in particular has made getting onto the property ladder harder to do as well as the affordability of the required lifestyle means customers are drawn to the rental sector in general and the all-inclusive professional landlord sector in particular.

Michael Allen, PRS Director at Tipi, comments on the recent findings;

“The NLA data shows the importance of designing new rental accommodation in London for families with children, not just for single tenants, sharers and couples, though those also remain important markets for us. As a build to rent development, we’ve been able to do just that and we have added family-friendly features and services that make the apartments ideal for family life here in London with Sky Sports, a pool table and outdoor terrace in one of the social spaces, super-fast broadband throughout and a play area for younger children in the acre of private landscaped gardens.

“Tipi’s amenities include apartments with a bathroom for each bedroom, ideal for families with older children and sharers alike. In addition, a range of hotel-style services, such as domestic cleaning, laundry and dry cleaning as well as secure underground parking, are available for families with a busy schedule who need to save time on household chores in order to get the kids to sports clubs, music lessons and social activities. We aim to reduce the life admin for our customers; we go beyond offering rents with utility bills included.”

Within the Tipi buildings, there are two shared social spaces with a lovely community atmosphere that are perfect as a retreat for families with children of all ages. A gym and cinema room are to be added to the available facilities later this year.

Wembley Park is a great choice for families. There are excellent local schools and the on-site community space, Yellow Pavilion hosts a vast range of activities for all ages every week, from football and arts & crafts to street dance and a youth groups. Meanwhile, there is plentiful outdoor space as part of the overall Wembley Park development and the nearby Brent Reservoir, provides a host of pursuits for families with children of all ages, from picnics to bug hunting.

And to top it all off, families at Tipi have easy access to central London for days out at museums and attractions, with Baker Street (and Madame Tussauds) just 12 minutes away on the underground. Wembley Park proudly hosts the SSE Arena, Wembley and London Designer Outlet both on the doorstop.

According to the NLA, renting privately has come to be seen as a stable option for families, with 76% happy with the length of their tenancy, 60% now seeing renting as not being a barrier to family life and 77% seeing their rented property as their home. So as far as families with children are concerned, a home in rented accommodation has become the norm, and thanks to Tipi, ‘normal’ just got a whole lot more exciting.

Apartments at Tipi are available at family-friendly prices, starting at £1,550 per month. Utility bills and 40 Mb/s broadband are included in the rent but ultra-fast speeds of up to 1Gb/s are available as an upgrade, ideal for the many hours teenagers spend watching Netflix or streaming music, and there are no agency fees to pay or end of tenancy cleaning costs.

For more information or to book a viewing with the Tipi team, visit www.tipi.london, take a video tour of a Tipi apartment or call 020 3151 1927.

Notes to Editors

About Tipi @TipiLondon

Tipi, the all-inclusive professional rental service, is a subsidiary of Quintain, the London focussed property development specialist and the team behind Wembley Park. Tipi is a ‘Build to Rent’ or Private Rental Sector (PRS) management company which builds, professionally manages and leases contemporary apartments to customers without charging agents’ fees. Unique to Tipi is that Quintain owns and operates the wider Wembley Park estate which ensures the environment surrounding the apartments is safe, controlled, clean and well connected.

Tipi’s first PRS buildings, Montana & Dakota offer brand new 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with rents inclusive of all utility bills and superfast broadband with the option to upgrade to ultra-fast 1Gb/s. Most apartments boast a balcony and all benefit from access to an acre of private gardens. 24-hour concierge and night security meet customers’ everyday needs and additional services can be added to tenancy agreements such as secure underground parking, domestic cleaning, laundry and dry cleaning services.

Two lounges are available for Tipi residents to use and include superfast 100 Mb/s broadband, Sky TV and Sky Sports and later this year a gym and cinema room will open within the building. Apartments are available to rent and move in immediately.

For more information on Tipi or to book a viewing, visit http://www.tipi.london/ or call 020 3151 1927.

AB Property Marketing appointed to represent Spanish Real Estate Law specialists Fuster & Associates

Property sales in Spain increase by 19% in Q1 2016 compared to same period last year (General Council of Notaries)
Since 1997 Fuster & Associates have helped over 15,000 international clients on the Mediterranean coast
Leading property PR agency ABPM appointed to promote Fuster & Associates legal expertise and outstanding customer service

Spain’s property market is set to continue on its route to recovery as the latest report from the General Council of Notaries confirms that home sales increased by 19% in Q1 2016, compared to the same period last year.

With enquiry levels for Spanish property on the rise, so too is the demand for the necessary legal services required throughout the process.

Founded in 1997, Fuster & Associates provide both legal and tax services to international clients on the Mediterranean coast.

With offices in Alicante, Cadiz and Murcia, they have successfully helped over 15, 000 international clients, ensuring a constant level of customer satisfaction through their collective expertise and commitment.

Lawyer Antonio Vidal, an integral member of the Fuster & Associates team, has built up a thorough knowledge of Spanish legal practice which he uses to the benefit of all his clients. He comments,

“Fuster & Associates are dedicated to providing both a professional and personal service to our clients. Our multilingual solicitors and tax advisors are experts in their respective fields and have a profound knowledge of the laws and taxes that affect foreign property owners in Spain.

“As interest in Spanish real estate continues to increase, we look forward to working with both new and existing clients, ready to go above and beyond to ensure their requirements are met.”

Now with almost 20 years of experience, Fuster & Associates are continuing to offer 5-star service to clients and striving to build on their established reputation within the market. In order to remain at the forefront, Fuster & Associates have appointed leading property PR agency AB Property Marketing.

Charlotte Ashton, MD of AB Property Marketing, comments,

“Fuster & Associates have a wealth of experience and expertise in providing the very best legal and tax services to international clients. We at AB Property Marketing are thrilled to be working alongside Fuster & Associates as they continue to deliver high quality legal services, combined with an outstanding level of customer service.”

Fuster & Associates are available to provide the media with expert industry comment in relation to Spanish property law as well as its dynamic property market.

To find out more about Fuster & Associate and the services they offer, please visit http://fuster-associates.com/

Digbeth is simply Divine to young urbanites and investors alike

by Charly United Kingdom Property Frontiers

Birmingham house prices up 8.3% in past year (Hometrack)
Digbeth creating a name for itself as ‘Birmingham’s Shoreditch’
Brand new Divine Collection apartments available from £159,500 (Property Frontiers)

Digbeth, which is increasingly referred to as ‘Birmingham’s Shoreditch’, is an area on the up. Hip bars and arty coffee shops rub shoulders with independent stores and some of the funkiest clubs in the UK’s second city.

Young, creative professionals work in huge, converted warehouses where businesses ranging from performing arts companies to new media hubs feel right at home. Art meets culture meets creativity, all with a good-sized helping of retail therapy and top restaurants thrown in for good measure.

The architecture of Digbeth is reflective of the area’s creativity, with brightly coloured buildings and motivational murals creating a complex, stylish urban landscape that oozes contemporary appeal. The Custard Factory is the heart of the area’s creativity. Offering office space, shops, salons, venues for special events, films, fairs, festivals and an ‘art of the month’ initiative, the complex is packed with independent companies staffed by bright young things who work hard by day and play hard by night.

Many of those who work in Digbeth are keen to live in the area too and demand for high end, contemporary accommodation is on the up, according to Ray Withers, CEO of specialist international property investment company Property Frontiers. He comments,

“Digbeth is turning into Birmingham’s most stylish location and we’ve seen interest in rental accommodation pick up significantly there. There’s a really unique vibe to the area and always something going on. It’s so much more than a 9-5 destination, which is why so many professionals are looking to make it their home, as well as the place they work.”

In response to such keen interest, Property Frontiers has just launched The Divine Collection at St Anne’s Court, in the heart of Digbeth. The hand-picked selection of 30 apartments will offer sophisticated, elegant homes to just the kind of tenant looking for something a cut above the rest in Digbeth.

Investors in The Divine Collection apartments can look forward to strong demand from tenants, not just because of the excellent location, but also thanks to the spacious design, exclusive roof garden and luxurious fit-out. Prices begin at £159,500 for a one-bedroom apartment (investment from £47,850).

Birmingham is currently the eighth best performing city in the UK when it comes to house price growth, according to the June 2016 Hometrack UK Cities House Price Index, having enjoyed year on year growth of 8.3%. The fact that The Divine Collection is available at prices some 10% lower than neighbouring developments provides the apartments with excellent potential for capital growth over the build period (construction is already underway, with completion due in Q1 2018).

Another part of Digbeth’s appeal is the area’s location within Birmingham. Residents can reach the Bullring and Selfridges on foot in 10 minutes. City centre locations don’t get much more convenient and Digbeth is perfectly suited to those who want to live somewhere where they can have the best that Birmingham has to offer right on their doorstep.

Digbeth is also set to benefit from the huge redevelopment due to take place at Birmingham Smithfield, which adjoins Digbeth’s western border. One of the biggest single ownership redevelopment sites in the country, Birmingham Smithfield will see the city’s wholesale markets relocated to one unique, vibrant market district. The area will include a new public space (Market Square), a family leisure quarter, a vast market space and integration with Midland Metro.

Property Frontiers’ Ray Withers concludes,

“Digbeth these days feels like Deptford and Shoreditch used to – there’s a sense of excitement in the air, a feeling that the area is beginning to really define itself. It’s a great time to invest in property in an area, as many of those who bought homes in Lewisham and Hackney back when Deptford and Shoreditch were on the rise can attest. There are exciting times ahead for those who live, work and invest in Digbeth!”

For more information, contact Property Frontiers by visiting http://www.propertyfrontiers.com/ or calling the team on +44 1865 202 700.

Liverpool shines as one of UK’s leading ladies for house price growth

by Eleanor United Kingdom Prime Centrum

Liverpool prices up 6.1% (Hometrack)
City centre population doubles in a single decade (Census)
Waterside buy-to-let homes from £109,000 (Prime Centrum)

Recently released figures from Hometrack have shown that Liverpool is one of the UK’s leading ladies at present when it comes to property price growth. The UK Cities House Price Index for June revealed growth of 6.1% for the northern city, increasing further from May’s figure of 5.4% and flagging it up as one of the best places to buy in the UK for capital gains.

Not only is this good news for homeowners in Liverpool, but also for investors looking for a leading location for their UK buy-to-let purchase. Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, which is offering investment at Liverpool’s Parliament Residence, comments,

“Liverpool is an incredibly strong contender so far as buy-to-let property investment in the UK is concerned right now. There are a range of factors supporting the city’s growth and quality homes in central areas are enjoying high levels of demand. The Hometrack data emphasises how active Liverpool’s property market is right now and the potential that it holds.”

According to Census figures, Liverpool’s city centre population doubled between 2001 and 2011, highlighting the huge rise in demand for well-located, central properties, like Parliament Residence. Investors there can own their own slice of Liverpool’s thriving property market from as little as £109,900 for a one-bedroom apartment, with 7% NET income per annum assured for the first three years.

Homebuyers and investors alike seem to have shrugged off the possibility of a post-Brexit housing market crash. As the Hometrack report states,

“The referendum result will impact turnover far more than house prices in near term.”

According to the report, house price falls are not expected during H2 2016, although some deceleration of growth nationally could occur, as buyers pause to see what Brexit brings about. However, with a new Prime Minister already taking firm action to shape her Cabinet and the Bank of England demonstrating their confidence in the economy by holding interest rates at 0.5%, there’s certainly a great deal more confidence in the housing market and the wider economy than many expected following the UK’s decision to leave the EU.

In Liverpool, where city centre living is increasingly sought after, there is certainly no lack of positivity in the market. Prime Centrum’s Stuart Johnson concludes,

“Buy-to-let investors and owner-occupiers are being drawn to Liverpool by the potential of its housing market. The city’s dynamic economy and fantastic array of entertainment options make it an extremely enticing place to live, particularly in the centre where you can have areas like the fashionable Baltic Triangle and Albert Dock within walking distance. City centre living also means that families can take advantage of economic opportunities by living near the central business district: it’s the ideal contemporary urban environment.”

For further details please visit www.primecentrum.com, email enquiries@primecentrum.com or call 020 7183 6332.

35 days after the Brexit vote, UK bricks & mortar are far from crumbling

by Charly United Kingdom Ideal Homes Portugal, Prime Centrum, Property Frontiers

UK house price growth remains steady at 10.2% (Hometrack)
Market fundamentals support strong Brexit response (Property Frontiers)
Look to second tier cities for the best investments (Prime Centrum)
Innovate when it comes to selling homes overseas (Ideal Homes Portugal)

35 days on from the UK’s vote to leave the European Union and the property market doomsayers seem to have gone awfully quiet. The predicted cataclysmic crash seems to have translated to a mild slowdown of the market, with the June 2016 Hometrack report finding that year-on-year growth has held fast at a rate of 10.2% nationally. The report suggests that prices will moderate during Q2 2016, in part due to the Brexit vote but also due to house prices in the south of England having reached near-record affordability highs.

Ray Withers, CEO of Property Frontiers, which specialises in buy-to-let opportunities such as Parker Street Residences in Liverpool, comments,

“We’re a long way from the housing market disaster that many predicted would result from the UK voting to leave the EU, though of course it is still early days. What is encouraging is that despite the Brexit vote, the UK’s market fundamentals have not changed: we didn’t have enough houses before the vote and we don’t have enough houses after it. The shortage in stock should continue to keep the market fairly well balanced during the Brexit negotiations, although I wouldn’t be surprised to see prices in London undergoing some adjustment as a result.”

The Hometrack report agrees, giving the view that, “London will bear the brunt of any slowdown.”

Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, concurs, observing,

“It’s time to look to the UK’s second tier cities and leave London to weather the aftermath of the referendum outcome, particularly when it comes to property investment. Cities like Leeds and Liverpool are the places to focus on right now.”

Both of these cities benefit from (comparatively) affordable house prices and yields that are above average, according to Hometrack’s June data, and this is reflected in the real estate investment opportunities available in them. Parliament Residence in Liverpool, for example, is available for just £109,900, including a 22% discount for early investors.

Nor is it just the UK property market that still offers excellent opportunities. Chris White, Founding Director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, has found that the post-Brexit environment has brought about new ways to connect those buying and selling homes in Portugal.

His company, which sells everything from island properties with incredible views to countryside mansions, has launched an initiative that allows buyers and sellers of properties in Portugal to complete the transaction entirely in pounds. Both parties save money on currency exchange services and Brexit’s impact on sterling is taken out of the equation.

There’s still a lengthy journey ahead in terms of the process of the UK disengaging from the EU, but one month in, the property market – both at home and overseas – seems to be handling Brexit far better than many expected.

For more information, please contact:

Property Frontiers: +44 1865 202 700 or www.propertyfrontiers.com.

Prime Centrum: 020 7183 6332 or www.primecentrum.com.

Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Flat-sharing, caring and definitely daring – Wembley Park has it all

by Charly United Kingdom Tipi

Flat-sharing up 300% for 45-54 year olds (Spareroom)
Newly built Tipi apartments cater for sharers’ needs right from the blueprints
Individual bathrooms, social spaces with pool table, on-site gym & cinema reshape sharing in London

Flat-sharing in London is on the increase, with many renters staying in multi-occupancy homes for longer. According to figures from Spareroom, during the five years up to 2014, flat-sharing rose by 186% for those aged 35 to 44 and by 300% for those aged 45 to 54. At Tipi, the lifestyle-focused rental operator at Wembley Park, the 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments have been designed to create the ideal environment for flat-sharers with bedrooms of equal size, a bathroom for each bedroom and rents that include all utility bills and superfast broadband.

Michael Allen, PRS Director, comments on this new generation of shared accommodation available in London,

“The great thing about build to rent apartments is that you can shape them to suit sharers’ needs before the first brick has even been laid. This isn’t about adapting pre-existing properties into shared homes and trying to fit the design into a building that was never intended for that purpose. With build to rent developments like Tipi, features designed for those looking to share their apartment are part of the blueprints.”

Tipi’s two bedroom, two bathroom apartments offer the perfect balance of privacy and shared space. The kitchen, living room and terrace /balconies are open plan and spacious, while the double bedrooms are light and airy. Additionally, many currently flat-sharing in London, will find the novelty of having a separate bathroom in each flat a welcome surprise. The layout has been designed in such a way that tenants can opt to spend time on their own if they feel so inclined, or socialise together in the flat or in the shared social spaces or acre of private landscaped gardens.

For those who are feeling particularly sociable, Tipi’s first two buildings – named Montana and Dakota – feature two delightful shared lounge areas. Montana is home to the Deckhouse, a bright and lively social space complete with pool table, HD TV with Sky Sports, outdoor terrace and kitchenette. Neighbouring Dakota is the home of the Nest, a peaceful shared space (still with HD TV with Sky Sports) that is perfect for home working or quiet relaxation in good company. Both the Deckhouse and the Nest have superfast 100 Mb/s broadband, as well as plentiful comfy seating, with the potential to reserve them for special occasions, enabling residents to use the spaces flexibly to suit their needs.

Flat-sharers at Tipi are also set to benefit from a residents-only gym and an on-site cinema room which are due to be available in the autumn.

The monthly cost of Tipi will also delight many. Prices for the apartments, which range in size from studios to three bedrooms, come furnished or unfurnished and start at £1,700 pcm, with utility bills and 40Mb/s broadband in all apartments included in the cost. There are also no agency fees to pay, which will be music to the ears of the many Londoners.

Tipi offers a host of other benefits to sharers. London Designer Outlet is next door, providing tenants with discounts of up to 70% off recommended retail price (RRP) across 50 high-end retail stores, a 9-screen Cineworld and 20 cafes and restaurants for everyone to enjoy. There is also the iconic SSE Arena, Wembley and Wembley Stadium for those who enjoy live music and world-class sporting events.

And if that wasn’t enough, central London is just a short Tube ride away: Marylebone 9 minutes; Baker Street 12 minutes; Bond Street and Kings Cross 19 minutes; London Bridge 25 minutes and Canary Wharf 32 minutes.

With the private rented sector stepping up so spectacularly, offering a professional landlord flat-sharers can trust, they can have the beautiful new home in a great location and at a reasonable rent that they have been looking for, for so long!

For more information or to book a viewing with the Tipi team, visit www.tipi.london, take a video tour of a Tipi apartment or call 020 3151 1927.

Notes to Editors

About Tipi @TipiLondon
www.tipi.london

Tipi is a subsidiary of Quintain, the team behind Wembley Park. Tipi is a ‘Build to Rent’ or Private Rental Sector (PRS) management company which builds, manages and leases contemporary apartments to customers without charging agents’ fees. Unique to Tipi is that Quintain owns and operates the wider Wembley Park estate which ensures the environment surrounding the apartments is safe, controlled, clean and well connected.

Tipi’s first PRS buildings, Montana & Dakota offer brand new 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with rents inclusive of all utility bills and superfast broadband. Most apartments boast a balcony and all benefit from access to an acre of private gardens. 24-hour concierge and night security meet customers’ everyday needs and additional services can be added to tenancy agreements such as secure underground parking, cleaning, laundry and dry cleaning services.

Two lounges are available for Montana & Dakota residents to use and include superfast 100 Mb/s broadband, Sky TV and Sky Sports and later this year a gym and cinema room will open within the building.

About Wembley Park @WembleyPark
www.wembleypark.com

Wembley Park is the development by Quintain which is transforming the 85 acre area around Wembley Stadium and The SSE Arena, bringing together new shopping at London Designer Outlet, leisure facilities, new homes and beautiful public spaces to create a major new destination and residential neighbourhood for London.

Wembley Park will be home to thousands of high-quality homes and a vibrant new community who will enjoy everything Wembley Park has to offer including tree-lined boulevards, regular outdoor market programmes and more.

The SSE Arena and Wembley Stadium continue to attract the best names in sport, music and entertainment.

Wembley Park is extremely well connected with two overland train stations (nine minutes to Marylebone), two tube stations (19 minutes to the West End), over 3000 parking spaces and excellent road links to motorways including the M1, M40 and M25.

Will May’s new Minister Percy keep the Northern Powerhouse on track post Brexit?

by Charly United Kingdom Surrenden Invest

MP for Brigg & Goole, Andrew Percy appointed new Northern Powerhouse minister
“The Northern Powerhouse will continue to be a priority” (Conservative Government spokesman)
Average Manchester house price increased 9% during the past year (Hometrack)
North-South divide widens as regional cities provide exciting investment opportunities (Surrenden Invest)

An element of calm has been restored after one of the most dramatic months in the history of British politics. With Theresa May now at the helm, the UK is stabilising and looking once again to boost domestic and overseas investor confidence, not least in the Northern Powerhouse.

It has been over 2 years since former Chancellor Osborne’s brainchild, the Northern Powerhouse, was born back in 2014 with a view to boosting growth in the north of England, particularly the Core Cities and reposition the economy away from London and the South East.

Taking over the reins from James Wharton, MP for Stockton South, Andrew Percy, MP for Brigg and Goole has now been appointed by PM May as the new Northern Powerhouse minister to ensure the continued success of this region, heavily weighted with expectation.

A proud northerner, Mr Percy said he was “keen to give this role my best shot” and has already taken steps to further devolve power from Westminster signing off plans to create an elected mayor for the Sheffield city region.

Indeed, as a Government spokesman said, “the Northern Powerhouse will continue to be a priority… and is making huge strides in rebalancing the economy – foreign direct investment has increased by 127% in the two years since the Northern Powerhouse was established.”

One of the Northern Powerhouse’s Core Cities, Manchester, has already been a recipient of significant amounts of this foreign direct investment, not least in the local property market. According to the latest EY UK Attractiveness Survey, of the 98 foreign direct investment projects awarded to the North West in 2015, over half, 54, of those schemes came to Manchester.

The construction sector (alongside software, business services and the retail sector) benefited greatly as numerous high profile domestic and international companies looked to capitalise on and address the imbalance in supply and demand of housing stock in Manchester.

The latest UK Cities House Price Index by Hometrack (June 2016) reveals just why the Northern Powerhouse city of Manchester’s property market is so appealing. The average property price in the city has increased by 9% throughout the past year and shows no imminent sign of slowing down.

Further demonstrating the growing North-South real estate divide, the relative change in sales during the last three months has decreased by 8% in London, whereas Manchester’s market is continuing to build momentum with a positive relative change in sales of 7%.

Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director of property consultancy Surrenden Invest believes that the disparity between the North and South is widening as property markets within the Northern Powerhouse continue climbing on their positive trajectory. He comments,

“Manchester has been experiencing a period of stable growth for some time now and I do not see this changing post Brexit. The city continues to provide savvy property investors with exciting opportunities in prime locations with evidence suggesting that the cities of the North are providing better returns and faster capital growth than London.”

One of Surrenden Invest’s latest investment opportunities in the heart of Manchester is One Cross Street. Situated just 5 minutes’ walk from the prime business and exclusive leisure district, Spinningfields, as well as from the luxury shopping district New Cathedral Street, one Cross Street is being redeveloped from the stunning structure of a former cotton mill circa 1907.

Modern low-carbon technology means that the building will be one of the city’s most energy efficient, making this a future-proof investment. The passive heating environment, where the building’s ambient temperature is maintained through air source heat pumps and heat recovery systems, means that running costs are incredibly low.

With prices starting at £130,323, the property is formed of 34 luxury apartments featuring elements of the existing structure left such as exposed brick and beams. The project has also included the creation of a modern new-build extension which will include two new penthouse levels featuring floor to ceiling glass walls as well as a beautiful roof terrace available to all residents. Properties also come fully furnished with high end fixtures and fittings.

For more information, visit www.surrendeninvest.com or contact Surrenden Invest on 0203 3726 499.

Happy parents head to the sunshine as UK councils drop term-time holiday cases

by Eleanor Spain United Kingdom Kyero

• 10 councils drop cases against parents for taking term-time holidays
• Spanish house prices to rise 5% this year (Moody’s)
• Bargain buys in top locations available across Spain – but not for long! (Kyero.com)

Parents across the UK are enjoying their summer holidays and heading into the sunshine with their families, while back home the news spreads that 10 councils have now dropped cases against those who took their children on holiday during term-time. A further six councils have stopped issuing fines and 11 more are reviewing their policies, after Isle of Wight father Jon Platt won his High Court case earlier this year, with the court backing his refusal to pay a penalty for taking his daughter to Disneyworld during term-time.

Seen as a victory for parents across the country, Platt’s case has meant the body of support for the lifting of the term-time holiday ban has grown rapidly. The current law means that parents are forced to take their children away only during holiday periods, when travel costs are considerably higher. The lifting of the ban would give greater flexibility to families and allow them to reduce the costs of their trips abroad.

Martin Dell, Director of Kyero.com, comments,

“Nobody wants to pay over the odds and a lifting of the term-time holiday ban would certainly put parents in a stronger position when it comes to affording their family holidays, although of course any such move would need to be balanced by ensuring that children’s education was not disrupted in any way. It’s a difficult matter to rule on, hence Mr Platt going all the way to the High Court!

“Certainly by being to travel outside of peak season, parents would be able to save money on their holidays. For some families, such a move would also make owning a holiday home a more viable prospect. Being able to use their second home at times when flights are cheaper is yet another addition to the attractions of owning a home in the sunshine.”

Dell goes on to recommend Spain as an excellent choice right now. International ratings agency Moody’s has forecast that Spanish house prices will rise by 5% this year, meaning buyers can look forward to the expectation of capital growth, as well as having a wonderful home of their own in Spain to enjoy. Couple with that is the fact that prices are still low in many areas of Spain, even in top locations.

A beautiful four bedroom, three bathroom villa with sizeable pool in the olive-growing region of Seville can be purchased for €133,000. A summer house on the edge of the garden and a self-contained studio above the garage offering flexible entertaining and living space for families of all shapes and sizes.

Even in the tourist hotspot of Marbella, bargains are still to be had. This two bedroom apartment with several pools boasts sea views, marble floors and a large covered terrace, all within a private, gated complex. Costing just €99,500, it would make an ideal family holiday apartment for those wanting to enjoy the Marbella lifestyle but without the usual hefty pricetag.

Barcelona also still offers some surprising bargains. This bright, modern apartment with three bedrooms is available for €95,000 and would make an ideal second home for families looking for a base from which to enjoy the cultural sights and gourmet pleasures of this fascinating city.

From rural retreats to coastal complexes to big city bolt-holes, Spain has serious bargains available to those who know where to look. But with property prices due to rise and greater flexibility over holiday times making second home ownership more attractive to parents, buyers need to act fast if they want to get maximum value.

For further details on Spanish second homes for the whole family, visit www.kyero.com. For the latest data on the state of the Spanish property market, visit data.kyero.com.

Liverpool property market embraces new global appeal as International Music Festival comes to town

by Charly United Kingdom Prime Centrum

Liverpool hosts fourth International Music Festival this weekend
UAE nationals account for 14% of all Liverpool Q2 sales (Prime Centrum)
Enquiries from UAE nationals increase by 65% in May while Kuwaiti buyers increase by 200% (Prime Centrum)

The fourth Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF) arrives this weekend, as people from all over the world participate in the four-day celebration of new talent, household names, musical heritage and cultural diversity. Combining artists from the award-winning LIMF Academy and LIMF Presents, the festival culminates at the LIMF Summer Jam in Sefton Park, Europe’s largest free music event.

Liverpool has long been a global destination for music, for both artists and fans alike, but it is the city’s property market that is currently making its way onto the international stage. Leading real estate consultancy, Prime Centrum, have certainly experienced increased interest from overseas buyers with UAE nationals accountable for 14% of their Q2 sales, second only to buyers here in the UK, and Kuwaiti buyers listed third, responsible for 9%.

In May, enquiries from UAE nationals increased by 65% in comparison to the previous month, with enquiries by prospective buyers from Kuwait increasing by a substantial 200% in the same period. This recent trend is set to carry on throughout the coming months, as Liverpool’s growing property market continues to excite investors from all over the world.

Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, highlights the Brexit result as the driving force behind the continued rise in interest from international buyers. He comments,

“The short-term uncertainty in the UK market combined with a weaker Sterling, has presented a chance for overseas investors to purchase very competitively priced property in the UK. With many Middle Eastern currencies linked to the US dollar, investing in GBP denominated property assets is currently a once in a generation opportunity to buy at significant discounts. Liverpool’s culture is celebrated on a global scale and international buyers are now recognising its potential as one of the UK’s up and coming property hotspots.”

Prime Centrum’s most recent addition to the Liverpool skyline is the beautiful Parliament Residence. Parliament Residence is an exclusive waterfront development, just a few minutes’ walk from Liverpool’s central business district, trendy Baltic Triangle and Albert Dock region. Comprised of 44 contemporary, high-end apartments and a private roof terrace lounge, Parliament Residence benefits from beautiful views of Liverpool’s UNESCO World Heritage waterfront.

With prices starting from just £109,900, these spacious one and two bedroom apartments are furnished to the highest quality and decorated in a luxury, modern style. Situated on the waterfront with a stunning rooftop garden, Parliament Residence provides a semi suburban environment from a prime city centre location. As well as enjoying the communal roof terrace facilities, residents will also have access to a convenient concierge service and secure car parking and bicycle storage.

For further details please visit www.primecentrum.com, email enquiries@primecentrum.com or call 020 7183 6332.

From ballroom to bedroom – 21st century students experience life ‘upstairs’

by Charly United Kingdom Collegiate AC

Plummer House in Newcastle incorporates early 1900s ballroom in modern student lounge
Online food shopping becomes more accessible with ‘Cold Room’ to store deliveries
24-hour concierge, free tea and coffee facilities and a private gym with a variety of classes are included

A world away from the drab digs of yesteryears, Plummer House is the most recent student accommodation to arrive in the city of Newcastle and promises to offer its residents the finest living experience available.

Welcoming students this September, ready for the new 2016/17 academic year, Plummer House will form part of the UK’s leading luxury student accommodation provider Collegiate AC’s Fusion Students portfolio.

With the elegance of 19^th century architecture combined with modern, contemporary design, Plummer House provides luxurious student accommodation unparalleled by others. Making the very most of the original high ceilings, many student rooms will benefit from mezzanine levels and a range of individual studios to four-bedroom en-suites. All rooms have been fitted with a filter in order to regulate the air and remove pollution, ensuring the wellbeing of each student.

Famous for hosting Tilley’s tea dances in the ballroom, the original building was established in 1910, and key period features have been preserved and celebrated throughout the renovation in order to retain a sense of the property’s original character. This includes the beautiful historic dance floor which has been granted a new lease of life in what is now the student lounge.

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing to its new residents, Plummer House is home to an array of exclusive onsite facilities and services set to enhance their high-end student experience even further. A 24-hour concierge team is on hand to help with anything you may need and there is even a ‘cold room’ which will take delivery of those tech-savvy students’ online food shopping, even if they are not home to receive it.

Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate AC, is delighted to launch their Fusion Collection in Newcastle and is looking forward to introducing students to all that the Collegiate AC lifestyle has to offer. He comments,

“The previous life of the building has gifted Plummer House with a unique blend of striking Edwardian features with new sleek modernized interiors. Add to that the all-inclusive service offered by Collegiate AC residences and students can live in an environment where they are both social and safe. We are thrilled to be able to offer students a luxurious living experience in the thriving city of Newcastle and look forward to welcoming the first residents this September.”

After students have settled in they will be presented with a welcome pack, containing information and a discount voucher booklet for local pubs, cafes and restaurants to help explore their new surroundings. Free tea and coffee facilities will be accessible to all students, 24-hours a day, to ensure every problem-solving tea or energy boost coffee is accounted for.

A private gym with a variety of classes, a games room and an onsite cinema, complete with free Netflix, are available to all residents, as well as a chic in-house bar and VIP lounge, including ice machines and a sound system, providing the perfect setting for any student social. Staying connected is easy with high-speed broadband and Wi-Fi throughout and secure electronic door entry adds, not only a sense of security and reassurance, but also to the 5-star feel that is central to Plummer House.

Priced from £20 per day, Plummer House is ideally situated just 10 minutes from the University of Newcastle on Market Street in the city centre and provides convenient access to the shops, cultural attractions and quayside area of this cosmopolitan city.

For more information, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or contact Collegiate AC on 01235 250 140.

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