At the heart of the West Midlands, Coventry offers a unique blend of rich history and modern innovation. As the UK’s most centrally located city, it provides an exceptional quality of life with exciting developments on the horizon. Here are three compelling reasons why you should consider making Coventry your new home:

1. Evolving Culture and Heritage

Coventry’s storied past comes alive through its remarkable architectural landmarks and world-class museums. The city’s mediaeval walls, stretching over 2 miles long, 12 feet high, and 9 feet thick, stand as a testament to its historical significance

Cultural Attractions:

• The iconic Transport Museum showcases Coventry’s pivotal role in the automotive industry
• Herbert Art Gallery offers a diverse collection of artworks and artefacts
• St. Michael’s Cathedral, a symbol of peace and reconciliation, attracts visitors worldwide
• Immerse yourself in a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, providing endless opportunities for exploration and learning.

2. Unbeatable Affordability and Quality of Life

Coventry stands out as an affordable oasis compared to other major UK cities. With Numbeo estimating rent prices to be 59.6% lower than London, your money goes further here. This affordability extends beyond housing to everyday expenses, allowing you to enjoy a higher quality of life.

Cost-Effective Living:

• Lower utility bills and transportation costs
• Abundant green spaces for recreation without the premium price tag
• A thriving food scene with options for every budget
• The city’s compact layout and excellent cycling infrastructure mean most essentials are within walking or biking distance, further reducing your living costs.

3. Unrivalled Connectivity and Future Growth

Coventry’s central location makes it a hub of connectivity, offering easy access to both the north and south of the UK. The city’s transport links are set to become even more impressive with ongoing developments.

Transport Advantages:

• Coventry Railway Station provides quick connections to Manchester, London, and beyond
• The innovative Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) project promises to revolutionise urban transit.

Proximity to major motorways for convenient road travel. Exciting projects like the Coventry City Centre South development demonstrate the city’s commitment to growth and modernisation. By moving to Coventry, you’re not just choosing a place to live – you’re investing in a future-focused city that’s constantly evolving.

Coventry offers the perfect blend of historical charm, affordable living, and strategic location. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or looking for a change of pace, this vibrant city has something for everyone.

Explore Sutherland House, our exceptional collection of modern studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, located in Coventry. Designed with convenience and contemporary living in mind, this development offers premium amenities and flexible living spaces perfect for professionals and city dwellers.

Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, High Wycombe is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends rich history with modern living. Just under an hour from London, this vibrant town offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and countryside charm. Here are five irresistible reasons why High Wycombe should be at the top of your relocation list.

1. A Tapestry of History and Culture

Step into High Wycombe’s storied past as you wander its historic streets. The town’s heritage dates back to 970 AD, with a market tradition spanning over 700 years. At the heart of the town stands the magnificent 13th-century All Saints Church, a testament to High Wycombe’s enduring spirit.

Market Magic: Experience the bustling atmosphere of the weekly market, a tradition that has thrived since mediaeval times. From artisanal crafts to fresh local produce, the market is a vibrant hub of community life.

2. Nature’s Playground at Your Doorstep

High Wycombe is a nature lover’s paradise, situated in the picturesque Chiltern Valley.

The Rye: Just steps from the high street, this expansive park offers a tranquil escape with its serene river, lush greenery, and recreational facilities.

Chiltern Hills: Explore the surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty, with its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and scenic walking trails perfect for weekend adventures.

3. A Thriving Community with Modern Amenities

High Wycombe offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat, combining small-town charm with big-city conveniences.

Shopping and Entertainment: The Eden Shopping Centre provides a premium retail experience, while the Wycombe Swan Theatre and Wycombe Museum cater to culture enthusiasts.

Culinary Delights: From cosy cafes to trendy restaurants, the town’s dining scene is diverse and ever-evolving.

4. Educational Excellence

High Wycombe is committed to nurturing young minds, boasting a range of top-tier educational institutions. Prestigious Schools: The Royal Grammar School and Wycombe High School are just two of the many excellent options for families.

Higher Education: With Buckinghamshire New University in town and world-class institutions like Oxford within commuting distance, opportunities for lifelong learning abound.

5. Transport Connections

High Wycombe’s strategic location and excellent transport links make it an ideal base for commuters and travellers alike.

Rail Links: The town’s railway station offers direct connections to London Marylebone in under 30 minutes.

Road Networks: Easy access to the M40 motorway puts Oxford, Birmingham, and beyond within comfortable driving distance.

High Wycombe is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. With its rich history, natural beauty, modern amenities, educational opportunities, and excellent connectivity, this Buckinghamshire gem offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or looking for a peaceful retirement, High Wycombe welcomes you with open arms.

Visit our current lettings vacancy at The Old Works to discover why this charming town is quickly becoming one of the UK’s most desirable places to call home.

Considering vibrant areas within Coventry? As Coventry experiences a remarkable transformation, three areas are emerging as particularly attractive prospects for residents and investors alike: Earlsdon, Willenhall, and Foleshill.

Each neighbourhood offers unique advantages that cater to diverse lifestyles and preferences, contributing to Coventry’s status as one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities.

Earlsdon: A Suburban Paradise

Earlsdon stands out as one of Coventry’s most coveted suburbs, and for good reason. This charming area offers an exceptional quality of life that’s hard to match elsewhere in the city.

Why Earlsdon Should Be Your Next Home:

Educational Excellence: Earlsdon boasts some of the best schools in Coventry, making it an ideal choice for families prioritising education.

• Thriving Local Scene: The area is renowned for its eclectic mix of independent shops and restaurants, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its picturesque streets and well-maintained properties, Earlsdon offers a visually pleasing environment that residents take pride in.
• Strong Property Market: The steady rise in house prices indicates Earlsdon’s enduring popularity and potential for long-term value.

Willenhall: The Up-and-Coming Contender

Willenhall is rapidly emerging as a hotspot for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality of life. This up-and-coming area offers exciting opportunities for renters and first-time buyers alike.

Why Willenhall Deserves Your Attention:

• Affordable Living: Willenhall provides an excellent opportunity to secure spacious accommodation at competitive prices.
• Community Development: Ongoing regeneration projects are enhancing the area’s amenities and overall appeal.
• Excellent Connectivity: Well-established transport links ensure easy access to Coventry’s city centre and beyond.
• Future Potential: As the area continues to develop, early movers stand to benefit from improving facilities and potentially rising property values.

Foleshill: Urban Living Redefined:

Foleshill represents the exciting face of urban regeneration in Coventry. This diverse and dynamic area is perfect for those who appreciate city living with a multicultural flair.

Why Foleshill Should Be On Your Radar:

• Prime Location: Situated close to Coventry’s city centre, Foleshill offers unparalleled convenience for work and leisure.
• Cultural Diversity: The area’s rich tapestry of communities contributes to a vibrant local atmosphere and diverse culinary scene.
• Ongoing Improvements: Significant investment in infrastructure and amenities is continually enhancing Foleshill’s appeal.
• Value for Money: With property prices expected to rise, Foleshill presents an opportunity to secure accommodation in an area with strong growth potential.

Making Your Decision:

When choosing between these three fantastic areas, consider your priorities:

• For suburban charm and excellent schools, Earlsdon is unbeatable.
• If affordability and potential for growth are your focus, Willenhall offers exciting prospects.
• For those seeking urban living with excellent connectivity, Foleshill is the ideal choice.

Each of these areas contributes to Coventry’s reputation as a city on the rise. With its growing population, strong economic outlook, and ongoing development initiatives, Coventry is poised for a bright future.

Fire Prevention

Fire prevention is crucial for ensuring safety in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. By understanding fire risks and implementing preventive measures.

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Electrical Safety

Electricity is part of our lives. We use it from the moment we wake up and throughout the day. As a result, we sometimes forget how powerful and dangerous it can be.

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Slips, Trips & Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common hazards in the workplace. They put many workers at risk of sprains, strains, cuts, bruises, fractures, and other injuries. At worst, they can also lead to death, especially in high-risk occupations such as construction. However, with adequate training and safety practices, companies can keep their personnel safe from these hazards.

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Hazard Awareness

Being aware of hazards within your home is the first step to preventing them. Some of the most common hazards at home include fire, poisoning and allergies. There may also be risks posed by your home’s contents, such as falls, choking, cuts and burns. This is not an exhaustive list, so you may find it useful to do your own research and conduct a risk assessment of your home.

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Legionnaires’ Disease

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection you can get from inhaling droplets of water from things like air conditioning or hot tubs. It’s uncommon but it can be very serious. You can get Legionnaires’ disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria that cause the infection. It’s usually caught in places like hotels, hospitals or offices where the bacteria have got into the water supply. It’s less common to catch it at home.

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Be Battery Aware

Batteries and items containing batteries should not go in any of your bins at home. Old batteries may seem ‘dead’ but they can still cause fires during the bin collection or waste sorting process. With the rising e-waste streams, hidden batteries are found in many items in daily life including laptops, mobile phones, electric toys, Bluetooth devices, shavers, electric toothbrushes, power bank chargers, vapes and more.

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Asbestos

Asbestos is a general name given to several naturally occurring fibrous minerals that have crystallised to form fibres. Asbestos fibres do not dissolve in water or evaporate, they are resistant to heat, fire, chemical and biological degradation and are mechanically strong.

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First Aid

Every year in the UK, thousands of people die or are seriously injured in incidents. Many deaths could be prevented if first aid was given before emergency services arrive.

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Smoking & Fire Safety

Smoking is one of the leading causes of fire-related deaths, and the health risks are well-known. If you smoke and find it hard to quit, you can stay safer by learning how to reduce fire risk for smokers below. You can also help loved ones who smoke by sharing the information.

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Batteries and items containing batteries should not go in any of your bins at home. Old batteries may seem ‘dead’ but they can still cause fires during the bin collection or waste sorting process.

With the rising e-waste streams, hidden batteries are found in many items in daily life including laptops, mobile phones, electric toys, Bluetooth devices, shavers, electric toothbrushes, power bank chargers, vapes and more. The campaign will also raise awareness about hidden batteries so that residents can dispose of them safely as well.

Key messages

• Be battery aware when recycling – everything with a battery, plug or cable has to be disposed of safely at a recycling point.

• Never put old batteries or electrical items in any of your bins at home. They can cause fires if crushed during bin collection or waste sorting.

• Take old batteries and items containing batteries to a household recycling centre (HWRC) or look for recycling points such as local supermarkets, shops, or your workplace.

• Check items for hidden batteries before recycling.

• Return vapes to where you bought them as retailers are obligated to provide a take-back scheme.

Read more: https://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/campaigns/be-battery-aware/

Asbestos is a general name given to several naturally occurring fibrous minerals that have crystallised to form fibres. Asbestos fibres do not dissolve in water or evaporate, they are resistant to heat, fire, chemical and biological degradation and are mechanically strong.

Asbestos is generally divided into two sub-groups; serpentine and amphiboles. Serpentine asbestos (chrysotile or white asbestos) was the most commonly used type of asbestos.

Chrysotile asbestos fibres are soft, flexible and curved and far less hazardous than the amphibole type. Amphibole fibres (crocidolite-blue asbestos, amosite-brown asbestos, tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite) are brittle fibres and are often rod- or needle-like in appearance. It is this form that is more hazardous to health. Crocidolite was the most commonly used amphibole asbestos in the past.

Uses of asbestos

The properties of asbestos made it an ideal material for use in a number of products, including insulation material for buildings, boilers and pipes; car brakes and floor tiles, insulating board to protect buildings and ships against fire; asbestos cement for roofing sheets and pipes.

Due to the risks to health following inhalation exposure to asbestos the importation of blue and brown asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1985. This ban was extended to include white asbestos in 1999.

How asbestos gets into the environment

Asbestos is widespread in the environment. It may enter the atmosphere due to the natural weathering of asbestos-containing ores or damage and breakdown of asbestos-containing products including insulation, car brakes and clutches, ceiling and floor tiles and cement.

Exposure to asbestos

People may come into contact with asbestos from existing asbestos-containing materials in buildings and products. If they are intact, they pose very little risk. However, if asbestos containing products are damaged in some way, fibres may be released. Caution should be taken when doing DIY work in buildings containing asbestos. Find further advice on asbestos in the home.

People are most likely to be exposed to asbestos fibres by breathing in fibres that are suspended in air.

People also may swallow small amounts of the fibres if the asbestos enters the soil or drinking water. Although asbestos does not dissolve, fibres may enter water after being eroded from natural sources, from asbestos-cement or from asbestos-containing filters. However, there is no evidence the ingestion of asbestos fibres is hazardous to health.

Those involved in demolition work, asbestos abatement, building repair and maintenance may be exposed to higher levels of asbestos as disturbing such materials releases fibres into the air.

How exposure to asbestos could affect your health

The presence of asbestos in the environment does not always lead to exposure as you must come into contact with the fibres. You may be exposed by breathing, eating, or drinking the substance or by skin contact. Following exposure to any hazardous chemical, the adverse health effects that you may encounter depend on several factors, including the amount to which you are exposed (dose), the duration of exposure, the way you are exposed, the form of asbestos and if you were exposed to any other chemicals.

All forms of asbestos fibres are hazardous as they can induce cancer following inhalation exposure, but amphibole forms of asbestos (including blue and brown) are more hazardous to health than chrysotile (white).

Breathing in high concentrations of asbestos for a long period of time mainly affects the lungs, causing a disease called asbestosis where breathing becomes difficult and the heart enlarges. Asbestosis may take decades to develop. Asbestosis sufferers are at an increased risk of cancer. Exposure to lower concentrations of asbestos over time may result in a general (diffuse pleural thickening) or localised (pleural plaques) thickening of the lung lining.

Warts and corns may form around asbestos fibres that become embedded in the skin. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that there is no consistent evidence that ingested asbestos is hazardous to health.

Asbestos and cancer

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified all forms of asbestos as being carcinogenic to humans. Asbestos causes mesothelioma (type of cancer that forms on the protective tissue that covers the lungs or the abdomen) and cancer of the lung, larynx (voice box) and ovary.

Vulnerable people

People with breathing problems such as asthma may be more sensitive to the effects of asbestos.

Pregnancy and the unborn child

Several experimental studies have suggested that asbestos does not cause adverse pregnancy outcomes or birth defects.

Children

It is not possible to say whether children are more susceptible to asbestos-related injury. However, due to the increased life expectancy of children compared to adults, there is an increased lifetime risk of mesothelioma as a result of the long period of time this disease takes to develop. They are therefore more vulnerable to developing mesothelioma than an adult exposed to the same amount.

What to do if you are exposed to asbestos

Intact asbestos materials in a place where they are unlikely to be disturbed should not cause any harm. If you come into contact with asbestos fibres, you should remove yourself from the source of exposure. If you have got asbestos fibres on your skin and clothes do not shake or brush the fibres off as this will make them airborne and prone to being inhaled. Remove all visible dust and fibres from the body, clothing and footwear by wet wiping with a damp cloth using a gentle patting action. Remove any contaminated clothing (not over the head) and place in a bag with the damp cloth.

Contact your local authority for advice on disposal of the clothing.

If you have any health concerns regarding exposure to asbestos seek guidance from your GP or contact NHS 111.

If you find asbestos in your home

Asbestos may be present in any house or building built before the year 2000 as it was widely used in a variety of building materials.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) does not recommend the DIY removal of asbestos without advice. If you find any asbestos which requires removal, you should contact your local council for more information about asbestos and its disposal

Read more  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/asbestos-properties-incident-management-and-toxicology/asbestos-general-information

Every year in the UK, thousands of people die or are seriously injured in incidents. Many deaths could be prevented if first aid was given before emergency services arrive.

What to do

If someone is injured, you should:

• first check that you and the injured person aren’t in any danger, and, if possible, make the situation safe
• if necessary, dial 999 for an ambulance when it’s safe to do so
• carry out basic first aid

Find out what to do after an incident

If someone is unconscious and breathing

If someone is unconscious but breathing, and has no other injuries that would stop them being moved, place them in the recovery position until help arrives.

Keep them under observation to ensure they continue to breathe normally.

If someone is unconscious and not breathing

If someone is not breathing normally, call 999 and start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) straight away.

Find out more about CPR

Common accidents and emergencies

Here are some of the most common injuries that may need emergency treatment in the UK and information about how to deal with them.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis (or anaphylactic shock) is a severe allergic reaction that can occur after an insect sting or eating certain foods.

The adverse reaction can be very fast, occurring within seconds or minutes of coming into contact with the substance the person is allergic to (allergen).

During anaphylactic shock, it may be difficult for the person to breathe, as their tongue and throat may swell, obstructing their airway.

Call 999 immediately if you think someone is experiencing anaphylactic shock.

Check if the person is carrying any medication. Some people who know they have severe allergies may carry an adrenaline self-injector, which is a type of pre-loaded syringe.

You can either help the person administer their medication or, if you’re trained to do so, give it to them yourself.

After the injection, continue to look after the person until medical help arrives.

All casualties who have had an intramuscular or subcutaneous (under the skin) injection of adrenaline must be seen and medically checked by a healthcare professional as soon as possible after the injection has been given.

Make sure they’re comfortable and can breathe as best they can while waiting for medical help to arrive.

If they’re conscious, sitting upright is normally the best position for them.

Find out how to treat anaphylaxis

Bleeding heavily

If someone is bleeding heavily, the main aim is to prevent further blood loss and minimise the effects of shock.

First, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance as soon as possible.

If you have disposable gloves, use them to reduce the risk of any infection being passed on.

Check that there’s nothing embedded in the wound. If there is, take care not to press down on the object.

Instead, press firmly on either side of the object and build up padding around it before bandaging to avoid putting pressure on the object itself.

Do not try to remove it because it may be helping to slow down the bleeding.

If nothing is embedded:

• Apply and maintain pressure to the wound with your gloved hand, using a clean pad or dressing if possible. Continue to apply pressure until the bleeding stops.
• Use a clean dressing or any clean, soft material to bandage the wound firmly.
• If bleeding continues through the pad, apply pressure to the wound until the bleeding stops, and then apply another pad over the top and bandage it in place. Do not remove the original pad or dressing, but continue to check that the bleeding has stopped.

If a body part, such as a finger, has been severed, place it in a plastic bag or wrap it in cling film. Do not wash the severed limb.

Wrap the package in soft fabric and place in a container of crushed ice. Do not let the limb touch the ice.

Make sure the severed limb goes with the patient to hospital.

Always seek medical help for bleeding, unless it’s minor.

Find out how to treat cuts and grazes and how to treat nosebleeds.

Burns and scalds

If someone has a burn or scald:

• Cool the burn as quickly as possible with cool running water for at least 20 minutes, or until the pain is relieved.
• Call 999 or seek medical help, if needed.
• While cooling the burn, and before the area begins to swell, carefully remove any clothing or jewellery, unless it’s attached to the skin.
• If you’re cooling a large burnt area, particularly in babies, children and elderly people, be aware that it may cause hypothermia (it may be necessary to stop cooling the burn to avoid hypothermia).
• If the burn has cooled, cover it loosely with cling film. If cling film isn’t available, use a clean, dry dressing or non-fluffy material. Do not wrap the burn tightly as swelling may lead to further injury.
• Do not apply creams, lotions or sprays to the burn.

If you are not sure if medical help is needed or what to do next, call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Find out how to treat burns and scalds

Chemical burns

For chemical burns, wear protective gloves, remove any affected clothing, and rinse the burn with cool running water for at least 20 minutes to remove the chemical.

If possible, determine the cause of the injury.

In certain situations where a chemical is regularly handled, a specific chemical antidote may be available to use.

Be careful not to contaminate and injure yourself with the chemical, and wear protective clothing if necessary.

Call 999 for immediate medical help.

Choking

The following information is for choking in adults. There is separate advice on how to stop a child from choking.

Mild choking

If the airway is only partly blocked, the person will usually be able to speak, cry, cough or breathe.

In situations like this, a person will usually be able to clear the blockage themselves.

If choking is mild:

• Encourage the person to cough to try to clear the blockage.
• Ask them to try to spit out the object if it’s in their mouth.
• Do not put your fingers in their mouth if you can’t see the object, as you risk pushing it further down their mouth.

If coughing doesn’t work, start back blows.

Severe choking

If choking is severe, the person won’t be able to speak, cry, cough or breathe, and without help they’ll eventually become unconscious. If coughing doesn’t work start back blows.

How to do back blows

To help an adult or child over 1 year old:

• Stand behind the person and slightly to one side. Support their chest with 1 hand. Lean the person forward so the object blocking their airway will come out of their mouth, rather than moving further down.
• Give up to 5 sharp blows between the person’s shoulder blades with the heel of your hand (the heel is between the palm of your hand and your wrist).
• Check if the blockage has cleared.
• If not, give up to 5 abdominal thrusts.

Do not give abdominal thrusts to babies under 1 year old or to pregnant women.

To perform abdominal thrusts on a person who is severely choking and isn’t in one of the above groups:

• Stand behind the person who is choking.
• Place your arms around their waist and bend them well forward.
• Clench 1 fist and place it just above the person’s belly button.
• Place your other hand on top of your fist and pull sharply inwards and upwards.
• Repeat this up to 5 times.

The aim is to get the obstruction out with each chest thrust, rather than necessarily doing all 5.

If the person’s airway is still blocked after trying back blows and abdominal thrusts:

• Call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Tell the 999 operator that the person is choking.
• Continue with the cycles of 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until help arrives.

The person choking should always be seen by a healthcare professional afterwards to check for any injuries or small pieces of the obstruction that remain.

Drowning

If someone is in difficulty in water, don’t enter the water unless it’s safe to do so. Don’t put yourself at risk.

Once the person is on land, you need to check if they’re breathing. Ask someone to call 999 for medical help.

If they’re not breathing, open the airway and give 5 initial rescue breaths before starting CPR.

Find out how to give CPR, including rescue breaths.

If the person is unconscious but still breathing, put them into the recovery position with their head lower than their body and call an ambulance immediately.

Continue watching the patient to ensure they don’t stop breathing and continue to breathe normally.

Electric shock (domestic)

If someone has had an electric shock, switch off the electrical current at the mains to break the contact between the person and the electrical supply.

If you can’t reach the mains supply:

• Do not go near or touch the person until you’re sure the electrical supply has been switched off.
• Once the power supply has been switched off, and if the person isn’t breathing, dial 999 to for an ambulance.

Afterwards, seek medical help.

Fractures

It can be difficult to tell if a person has a broken bone or a joint, as opposed to a simple muscular injury. If you’re in any doubt, treat the injury as a broken bone.

If the person is unconscious or is bleeding heavily, these must be dealt with first by controlling the bleeding with direct pressure and performing CPR. See the section on bleeding heavily above.

If the person is conscious, prevent any further pain or damage by keeping the fracture as still as possible until you get them safely to hospital.

Once you have done this, decide whether the best way to get them to hospital is by ambulance or car.

If the pain isn’t too severe, you could transport them to hospital by car. Get someone else to drive if possible so you can care for the person who is injured during the trip.

But call 999 if:

• they’re in a lot of pain and in need of strong painkilling medication – call an ambulance and do not move them
• it’s obvious they have a broken leg – do not move them, but keep them in the position you found them in and call an ambulance
• you suspect they have injured or broken their back – call an ambulance and do not move them

Do not give the person who is injured anything to eat or drink, as they may need an anaesthetic (numbing medication) when they reach hospital.

Find out more about:

• broken ankle
• broken arm or wrist
• broken collarbone
• broken nose
• broken toe
• broken ribs
• hip fracture

Heart attack

A heart attack is one of the most common life-threatening heart conditions in the UK.

If you think someone is having or has had a heart attack, call 999 and then move them into a comfortable sitting position.

Symptoms of a heart attack include:

• chest pain – the pain is usually located in the centre or left side of the chest and can feel like a sensation of pressure, tightness or squeezing
• pain in other parts of the body – it can feel as if the pain is travelling from the chest down 1 or both arms, or into the jaw, neck, back or abdomen (tummy)

Sit the person down and make them comfortable.

If they can, it’s best for them to sit on the floor with their knees bent and their head and shoulders supported. If possible, place cushions behind them or under their knees.

If they’re conscious, reassure them and ask them to take a 300mg aspirin tablet to chew slowly, (unless you know they shouldn’t take aspirin, for example if they are under 16 or they say they are allergic to it).

If the person has any medication for angina, help them to take it.

Monitor their vital signs, such as their breathing, until help arrives.

If the person deteriorates and becomes unconscious, open their airway, check their breathing and, if necessary, start CPR.

Call 999 to tell them you think the person is now in cardiac arrest (their heart has stopped beating).

Needlestick injuries

If you pierce your skin with a used needle:

• gently squeeze the wound to encourage it to bleed (ideally while holding it under running water)
• wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap
• do not scrub or suck the wound
• dry the wound and cover it with a waterproof plaster or dressing

Get urgent medical advice from NHS 111 online, calling 111, or going to your nearest A&E. You may need treatment to reduce the risk of getting an infection.

If you injure yourself at work, contact your employer’s occupational health service.

Find out more about sharps injuries on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website.

Poisoning

Poisoning is potentially life threatening.

Common causes of poisoning include:

• swallowing a toxic substance, such as bleach
• taking an overdose of a prescription medicine
• eating something, like wild plants and fungi

Alcohol poisoning can cause similar symptoms.

If you think someone has swallowed a poisonous substance, call 999 to get immediate medical help and advice.

The effects of poisoning depend on the substance swallowed, but can include vomiting, loss of consciousness, pain or a burning sensation.

The following advice is important:

• Find out what’s been swallowed so you can tell the paramedic or doctor.
• Do not give the person anything to eat or drink unless a healthcare professional advises you to.
• Do not try to cause vomiting.
• Stay with the person, as their condition may get worse and they could become unconscious.

If the person becomes unconscious while you’re waiting for help to arrive, check for breathing and, if necessary, perform CPR.

Do not perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if the person’s mouth or airway is contaminated with the poison.

Do not leave them if they’re unconscious: they could vomit. The vomit could then enter their lungs and make them choke.

If they do vomit naturally, try to collect some of it for the ambulance crew – this may help identify the cause of the poisoning.

If the patient is conscious and breathing normally, put them into the recovery position and keep checking they’re breathing normally.

Find out more about treatment for poisoning and alcohol poisoning.

Shock

In the case of a serious injury or illness, it’s important to look out for signs of shock.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the circulatory system fails to provide enough oxygenated blood to the body and, as a result, deprives the vital organs of oxygen.

This is usually the result of severe blood loss, but it can also occur after severe burns, severe vomiting, a heart attack, a bacterial infection, or a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

The type of shock described here isn’t the same as the emotional response of feeling shocked, which can also occur after an accident.

Signs of shock include:

• pale, cold, clammy skin
• sweating
• rapid, shallow breathing
• weakness and dizziness
• feeling sick and possibly vomiting
• thirst
• yawning
• sighing

Seek medical help immediately if you notice that someone has any of these signs of shock.

You should:

• call 999 as soon as possible and ask for an ambulance
• treat any obvious injuries
• lie the person down if their injuries allow you to and, if possible, raise and support their legs
• use a coat or blanket to keep them warm
• do not give them anything to eat or drink
• give them lots of comfort and reassurance
• monitor the person – if they stop breathing, start CPR and call 999 to update them

Stroke

The FAST guide is the most important thing to remember when dealing with people who have had a stroke.

The earlier they receive treatment, the better. Call for emergency medical help straight away.

If you think a person has had a stroke, use the FAST guide:

• Face – the face may have dropped on 1 side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.
• Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm.
• Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake.
• Time – it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.

If a person had symptoms of a stroke but they do not have them now, you should still call 999 as it may have been a mini-stroke (also called a transient ischaemic attack or TIA).

Find out more about the symptoms of a stroke.

Calling 999 to get help in an emergency

When you call 999, you’ll be asked what service you need, as well as:

• your telephone number
• the address you’re calling from
• a brief description of what’s wrong with the person and whether they’re bleeding, unconscious or not breathing

The call handler may advise you on what you can do until help arrives.

Read more: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/first-aid/

Smoking is one of the leading causes of fire-related deaths, and the health risks are well-known. If you smoke and find it hard to quit, you can stay safer by learning how to reduce fire risk for smokers below. You can also help loved ones who smoke by sharing the information.

Smoking and fire safety – essentials you need to know

Smoking is the leading cause of fire fatalities. If you, or a loved one, are looking for support to quit, NHS Smoke Free offers resources and help at 0300 123 1044.

10 essential safety tips for smokers

1. It’s safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
2. Never throw cigarette butts from a balcony, they could start a fire elsewhere.
3. Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
4. Use deep, heavy ashtrays which can’t tip over. Add a small drop of water to the ashtray and stub cigarettes out properly.
5. Don’t leave lit pipes or cigarettes unattended, or sat on the edge of an ashtray – they can tip and fall as they burn away.
6. Empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin. Never use a wastepaper basket.
7. Take extra care when you’re tired, and if you’re drinking alcohol or taking prescription or recreational drugs.
8. Avoid buying counterfeit cigarettes, they are less likely to self-extinguish, which increases the risk of fire.
9. Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach, and buy child resistant lighters.
10. Never smoke if you use healthcare equipment like medical oxygen or an air flow pressure relief mattress. If you use emollients and skin creams, or use fire retardant bedding consider using fire retardant bedding or nightwear.

Read more: https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home/smoking/

What are the most common home safety hazards?

Being aware of hazards within your home is the first step to preventing them. Some of the most common hazards at home include fire, poisoning and allergies. There may also be risks posed by your home’s contents, such as falls, choking, cuts and burns. This is not an exhaustive list, so you may find it useful to do your own research and conduct a risk assessment of your home.

Hazards in the home:

Fire

Fires at home can be highly dangerous, not only to your property but also to you and the people you live with. Be sure to have working smoke alarms in the house tested regularly, and a fire plan with safety protocols in place.

To reduce the risk of home fire, it’s important to:

• reduce flammable clutter, such as old boxes or paper
• never leave cooking unattended
• maintain any fireplaces and chimneys, with regular inspections from a professional, and
• assess electrical systems, and seek the assistance of an electrician if you notice frayed or loose wires.

Having adequate home and contents insurance could help cover your property if it’s affected by an accidental fire, including bushfire (among other features and benefits!). GIO offers three levels of Home and Contents Insurance cover, so you can choose the policy that’s right for you.

Poisoning

Several household items present poisoning risks, such as cleaning and maintenance supplies, medications and petrol. Keeping these things locked away and out of reach of children can reduce the chance of them being accidentally ingested. And when storing these items, try not to keep chemicals or petrol in bottles that could be mistaken for something that’s drinkable, like a soft drink bottle.

Another hazard to be aware of is carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur in homes with appliances that use fossil fuels, like gas. It’s very difficult to detect carbon monoxide, but you can reduce your risk of exposure by installing a carbon monoxide detector. Regular maintenance of appliances that might cause a leak, such as heaters and ovens, is also important.

Allergies

Mould grows when water condenses onto surfaces, like walls and window frames, and is directly related to humidity within your home. If you have an allergy to mould, symptoms can include sneezing, itchy eyes and headaches.

To keep mould at bay, remove condensation from surfaces in your home, especially in damp areas like your bathroom and kitchen, and keep air vents clear. You may also benefit from using an air purifier.

Water

Pools, and other water-related hazards such as bathtubs that aren’t properly secured or monitored, present a risk of drowning, especially for young children. Be alert when they’re in use and install a fence or another barrier around them for when they’re not.

Hazards caused by contents:

Falls

In Australia, falls account for 40% of injuries requiring hospitalisation1. Accidents may happen where there is poor lighting, such as near stairs, and in areas that can become slippery, like your bathroom and kitchen.

It’s also worth being aware of:

• rugs or loose carpet
• clutter, and
• power cords.

You might even choose to wear rubber-soled shoes or bare feet around the house if your flooring is smooth; socks could put you at risk of a fall.

Choking

Choking and strangulation risks are a common hazard at home. Food that isn’t prepared well may present a risk. Try to cutting food into small bites, encourage your family or housemates to slow down while they eat, and consider pairing your meals with a non-alcoholic drink to moisten dry food.

In addition to food, there are objects in your home, such as cords and small toys, that could be dangerous. Consider doing a sweep around your home where children might be present, to ensure choking and strangulation hazards are out of the way.

Cuts

Knowing about items that present a potential risk of cuts and scrapes can help you avoid them. From a tin lid in an open recycling bin to sharp outdoor tools, it’s useful to be aware of the risk so you can mitigate it. This might mean:

• ensuring your bins have a lid
• keeping kitchen tools, like sharp knives, stored safely
• pointing sharp items such as forks and knives down if you use a dishwasher
• installing a lock on your bathroom cupboard so items like razors can’t be accessed easily, and
• putting tools away.

Burns

Dishwashers and stoves are the most likely culprits when it comes to burn-related injuries. Installing a latch on your dishwasher, or using the back burners when you cook, may help to avoid them.

Read more: https://www.gio.com.au/know-more/improving-your-home/most-common-home-safety-hazards.html

In the year ending March 2024, Fire and Rescue Services attended 138,977 fires across the UK. As we go about our daily lives, we don’t think about fire safety very often. However, there can be hazards in our homes can pose significant risks to life and cause substantial property damage.

Fire prevention is crucial for ensuring safety in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. By understanding fire risks and taking preventive measures, we can greatly reduce the likelihood of fire outbreaks and protect lives and property. Here’s a comprehensive guide to fire prevention, focusing on key areas.

Understanding Fire Hazards:

Fires are often caused by negligence, faulty equipment, or accidents. Common fire hazards include:

• Electrical faults
• Flammable materials
• Cooking mishaps
• Smoking indoors
• Open flames

Fire Prevention at Home:

1. Smoke detectors

Check them regularly to ensure they function properly. A well-maintained smoke detector is the first line of defence in detecting fires early.

2. Electrical appliances

Regularly check electrical cords for wear and tear, do not use damaged or frayed electrical cords. Unplug appliances when not in use and avoid overloading plug sockets and always remember to turn off the iron or hair straighteners before you go out.

3. Create a cooking safety routine

Never leave cooking food unattended. If a grease fire occurs, avoid using water—smother the fire with a lid or fire blanket instead.

4. Smoking

If you smoke, do so outside away from soft furnishings and use deep, sturdy ashtrays to dispose of cigarettes safely.

5. Proper storage of flammable materials

Keep flammable liquids like gasoline or cleaning agents in well-ventilated areas and away from heat sources.

6. Children

Teach your children about the dangers of playing with fire and keep matches and lighters out of their reach.

Electricity is part of our lives. We use it from the moment we wake up and throughout the day. As a result, we sometimes forget how powerful and dangerous it can be.

The number one cause of electrical problems at home is the misuse of electrical equipment. Keep an eye on your appliances on a day-to-day basis and immediately stop using anything that looks damaged. You don’t need to be an electrician to do basic checks – checking the wires, keeping them away from water and not overloading sockets are simple things you can do in your home to keep things safe.

Follow our top tips to avoid dangers in your home:

• Turn off electrical appliances when you’ve finished using them
• Check cables – if anything looks worn or loose, don’t use the item
• Don’t let the leads from your kettle, toaster or other kitchen appliances trail across your cooker
• If you see burn marks, sparks or your sockets feel hot call an electrician if you own the property or your letting agent if you rent your property
• Test your smoke alarm on a regular basis, just in case there’s an electrical fire
• Never use a bulb with a higher wattage than the light fitting says is safe
• Don’t run the cables from your appliances under carpets or rugs
• Never overload your sockets or adapters by plugging too many appliances into one place
• Defrost your fridge and freezer at least once a year
• Don’t leave your washing machine or tumble dryer on when you’re out of the house or overnight
• Check that your microwaves, fridges and freezers have enough space around them
• Never use water to put out an electrical fire! Visit fire safety page for more information

You can find even more electrical safety advice on the electrical safety council’s website.

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection you can get from inhaling droplets of water from things like air conditioning or hot tubs. It’s uncommon but it can be very serious.

How you get Legionnaires’ disease

You can get Legionnaires’ disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria that cause the infection.

It’s usually caught in places like hotels, hospitals or offices where the bacteria have got into the water supply. It’s less common to catch it at home.

You can get Legionnaires’ disease from things like:

• air conditioning systems
• humidifiers
• spa pools and hot tubs
• taps and showers that are not used often

You cannot usually get it from:

• drinking water that contains the bacteria
• other people with the infection
• places like ponds, lakes and rivers

Check if you have Legionnaires’ disease

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include:

• a cough
• shortness of breath
• chest pain or discomfort, particularly when breathing or coughing
• a high temperature
• flu-like symptoms

Urgent advice:Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

You have symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease such as:

• a cough that’s lasted 3 weeks or more
• coughing up blood
• chest pain that comes and goes, or happens when breathing or coughing
• feeling short of breath

Tell them where you’ve been in the last 10 days, such as if you stayed in a hotel, spa or hospital.

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Treatment for Legionnaires disease:

You may need to go into hospital if you’re diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease.

Treatment in hospital may include:

• antibiotics given directly into a vein
• oxygen through a face mask or tubes in your nose
• a machine to help you breathe

When you start to get better you might be able to take antibiotic tablets at home. Antibiotic treatment usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks.

Most people make a full recovery, but it might take a few weeks to feel back to normal.

Read more: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/legionnaires-disease/

What are Slips, Trips, and Falls?

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common hazards in the workplace. They put many workers at risk of sprains, strains, cuts, bruises, fractures, and other injuries. At worst, they can also lead to death, especially in high-risk occupations such as construction. However, with adequate training and safety practices, companies can keep their personnel safe from these hazards.

For context, slips occur when there’s little to no traction between the footwear and the walking surface, causing a person to lose their balance. On the other hand, tripping happens when a person’s foot hits an object or steps down to a lower, uneven surface. Any of the two can disrupt a person’s balance and make them lose their footing.

Lastly, falls (being the leading cause of fatalities among construction workers) can happen to anyone if they stumble and fall too far off their center balance. This commonly occurs for those working at heights.

Slips, Trips, and Falls in Numbers

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports alarming rates of slip, trip, and fall incidents in 2022. Their most recent data show that slips, trips, and falls are among the top causes of fatal and non-fatal injuries in the workplace:

• Fatal Injuries – The rate of work-related fatalities caused by slips, trips, and falls was up by 1.8% in 2022 (equating to 865 cases).
• Non-Fatal Injuries – Slips, trips, and falls cases ranked third among the top employer-reported workplace injuries in 2022, involving days away from work.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Slips, trips, and falls can happen due to many reasons—from uneven working surfaces to unsafe ladder positions. Knowing the causes can help managers assess risk factors and devise ways to prevent them.

Here are the causes and risk factors for each:

Slips

• Wet spills (e.g., water, mud, grease, oil, food, blood, etc.)
• Dry product spills (e.g., powder, dust, wood chips, granules, plastic wraps)
• Weather hazards (e.g., ice, snow)
• Concrete, ceramic tile, or marble floors
• Sloped or uneven walking surfaces
• Wet, muddy, greasy shoes
• Ramps or planks without skid- or slip-resistant surfaces
• Climbing ladders

Trips

• Clutter on the floor
• Obstructed view
• Poor lighting
• Uncovered cables, wires, hoses, and extension cords
• Open drawers, cabinets, doors, etc.
• Uneven walkways
• Unmarked steps or ramps
• Missing floor tiles and bricks

Falls

• Weak or damaged ladders
• Ledges without proper railing
• Carrying heavy objects
• Failure to use guardrails on scaffolding
• Unprotected edges
• Unsafely positioned ladders
• Misused fall protection and height access equipment

Slips, Trips, and Falls Hazards

To give you a comprehensive idea, here’s a list of the most frequently occurring injuries associated with slips, trips, and falls hazards:

• Sprains and strains – When a person slips or trips and tries to catch themselves or regain balance, they may twist or stretch their muscles or ligaments, leading to sprains or strains.
• Fractures and broken bones – Falling from a height or landing forcefully on a hard surface can cause fractures or breaks in bones of the wrists, hips, and ankles.
• Contusions and bruises – Impacts with the ground or objects during a fall can cause contusions, commonly known as bruises, from damaged blood vessels beneath the skin.
• Head injuries – Falls that involve striking the head on a hard surface can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can range from mild concussions to more severe cases.
• Cuts and lacerations – Falls may involve contact with sharp or rough objects, leading to cuts and lacerations.
• Back and spinal cord injuries (SCI) – Falls that involve landing on the back or experiencing a jarring impact can cause damage to the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal fractures, or spinal cord injuries.
• Neck injuries – These are sometimes a result of spinal injuries or damage to the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the neck.

OSHA Regulations

The Occupational Safety and Health Standards 1910 Subpart D (Walking-Working Surfaces) provides general standards for walking-working surfaces, such as passageways, warehouses, storage rooms, service rooms, and working areas.

The 1910.22 Regulations outline several points for safe working surfaces, including the following:

• Keep workroom floors clean, orderly, and dry.
• Provide safe means of entering and exiting from walking surfaces.
• Inspect the working surface to keep it in good condition.
• Repair hazardous floors as soon as possible.

7 Tips for Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

Fortunately, most slip, trip, and fall incidents are avoidable. By using the right safety tools and training employees, companies can prevent these incidents from happening. Here are some ways to prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace:

How to Prevent Slips Trips and Falls in the Workplace

1. Practicing good housekeeping – A slip-free workspace begins with housekeeping. Removing clutter helps tidy up the floor and makes it walkable for everyone in the workplace.
2. Providing adequate lighting in walking areas – Workers can navigate through spaces better if there is enough light. Given this, it’s best to place proper lighting in access and egress points such as halls, ramps, stairs, and exits.
3. Installing safety signs – Doing so warns people about walking in hazardous spaces to keep them safe. For example, construction safety uses warning lines, control zones, and designated areas to mark which areas are passable or restricted.
4. Cleaning spills immediately – Proper cleaning ensures that the floor is free from hazardous elements so that people can walk safely. To keep water from the floor, you may also consider various dewatering methods and equipment such as a sump pump.
5. Making sure proper footwear is worn – Non-slip shoes with good traction protect workers from static electricity, falling objects, explosions, exposure to hazardous substances, and other risks.
6. Maintaining and improving floor quality – Modifying the floor space can go a long way to ensure safety from slips, trips, and falls. Fall protection can be improved by inspecting floors regularly and investing in non-slippery flooring options, among others.
7. Implementing safety plans and protocols – A well-thought-out safety plan cements all efforts in promoting fall protection, especially in high-risk workspaces. This plan must include in-depth risk assessments, safety standards and practices, training, regular inspections, equipment guidelines, and toolbox talks.

Read more: https://safetyculture.com/topics/slips-trips-and-falls/

Strong opposition to the Renters’ Rights Bill exists in the Commons. Less than a month after the Bill’s introduction, the Rt Hon. Angela Rayner MP presented it for its Second Reading on 9 October 2024, reaffirming the UK Government’s commitment to accelerating housing reform.. Throughout, MPs raised a number of important concerns, with Rayner rejecting the Bill’s potential unintended consequences. These concerns included a reduction in the availability of rental properties, judicial deadlock, and the risk of rent inflation.

The UK Government does not believe that fixed-term tenancies benefit both landlords and tenants, according to the housing Minister Matthew Pennycook, MP. He stated that a switch to period tenancies will keep tenants from being trapped in contracts and allow them to adapt to changes in circumstances more freely. Propertymark has challenged the proposal to scrap fixed term tenancies and have called on the Minister to undertake an impact assessment.

Further information on the Renters right bill can be found here – https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/renters-reform-bill

MCR Homes has announced the sale of its Broadwater Apartments development in Worthing, West Sussex, to LRC Group, for £12m.

The 53,000 sq ft former EDF Energy building was transformed by the Manchester-based company’s parent, MCR Property Group, last year into a mix of 78 one- and two-bedroom luxury apartments.

All units have since been fully let and LRC Group has acquired the entire scheme as a going concern within the private rental sector.

LRC Group is committed to maintaining the former office block as a tenanted development and residents have been notified of the change in landlord.

The two acre site incorporates a landscaped internal courtyard, provides parking for 78 cars and is just a short walk from Worthing’s historic seafront, beach and town centre.

MCR Homes continues to expand its residential footprint throughout the UK and is on track to deliver thousands more homes in 2021.

The LRC transaction – advised on by Avison Young – was agreed as property website Zoopla recorded the biggest increase in rental demand in cities across the UK since its index began in 2008.

Michael Fenlon, director at MCR Homes, said: “MCR spent 18 months transforming what was a redundant office building into a new community of high specification apartments.

“The regeneration of this site has been an outstanding success for the local community.

“The LRC Group’s demonstrated track record in property management and tenant relations now makes them the ideal landlord to take over the development.”

Mital Patel, senior acquisitions and asset manager at LRC Group, said: “While all the talk during the pandemic was about how demand had risen for bigger homes with more outdoor space, there remains huge demand in the private rental sector for spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments situated within easy reach of public transport.

“Broadwater Apartments allows for flexible, dynamic living in one of the UK’s most vibrant seaside towns, and we are looking forward to getting to know our new tenants and building on what MCR has achieved.

“LRC continues to have a strong appetite to acquire similar residential properties across major cities and towns across England.”

Taken from The Business Desk

MCR Property Group’s Stockwood Gardens in Luton has reached 50% sold in Phase 2 ahead of launch. Phase 2 is currently under development with the new E block launched in June 2021. MCR Property Group broke ground on this project with Phase 1 in November 2019, and with Phase 2 underway as well as Phase 3 in the works – this is set to be an exciting development for Luton. Set in a desirable location with excellent transport links via Luton Airport and the M1 motorway, these striking apartments are ideal for families and professionals alike. This development comprises a total of 340 apartments in an ideal location.

Situated in Luton with close links to London – Stockwood Gardens provides a wonderfully bright living space that brings high-end executive living and contemporary design alongside stunning views of Stockwood Park close by. Prices start at £185,000 for a 1-bed apartment and £225,000 for a 2-bed apartment with Help To Buy options available to facilitate your move on to the property ladder. First-time buyers will be able to benefit from a 5% deposit – and buyers can borrow 20% of the purchase price, interest-free, for five years. This scheme has been open since 16th December 2020 and runs until 31 March 2023. With 11 blocks of luxury apartments featuring fitted kitchens and bathrooms, these are a great choice for first-time buyers.

Teaming up with CODA Studios Ltd, MCR Property Group has created spacious and modern apartments to suit all budgets and needs. The building also has a stunning communal garden space and water feature ideal for picnicking in the summer sun.

Phase 1 of the development has already 99% sold out, with a completion date due at the end of July. Carpets will be installed on the week commencing 28th June 2021 in Blocks I, J, and K. The final coat of paint is also imminent with finishing touches going in shortly. Phase 1 is due for completion in July 2021.

Phase 2 of the project is already 50% sold out and these beautiful 1 and 2 bedroom apartments also offer shared ownership on some of the units. As an opportunity to get on the property ladder post-covid, it is no wonder these have proved so popular. A New Block E has just been launched, adding to the units in this development.

Construction for Phase 2 has begun, and the groundwork is currently underway to create the foundation for these units. Completion of Phase 2 will be in Q2 2022. Phase 3 will follow with a completion date set for July 2023.

Luton’s property market has been incredibly positive in recent years, and many have flocked here due to its ideal location with excellent transport links as well as a thriving lifestyle. With an extremely buoyant market, Help To Buy, and shared ownership – it is no surprise that the attractive price point of these apartments has created the perfect storm for Stockwood Gardens.

Kurtis Lindsay, Business Development Manager at MCR Homes says

“Stockwood Gardens has been a huge success within the local market. Phase 1 has almost sold out with 1 unit remaining and phase 2 is experiencing significant demand, with over a third of apartments already SSTC. The easy access to both London, via the M1; Luton via local transport links or a short drive, has attracted a wide range of buyers. The attainment of Stockwood Gardens has been down to its attractive price point, which is below the market average of Luton, whilst maintaining a high level of finish compared to its competition. Shared ownership options for the new residents have also complimented this. I see the development continuing to be an accomplishment and one that will help create a closer community for local residents.”

To find out more about Stockwood Gardens, Luton you can contact our MCR Homes sales team directly or get in touch with Penrose Estate Agents in Luton.

MCR Homes: 0161 274 0472

Penrose Estate Agents: 01582 280 818

Today MCR Homes is going to take a look at some of the best cities and towns you can call home by the sea this summer. These seaside spots all have their merits, and by the end of this article, we hope you’ll be browsing our current coastal listings to find the right home for you this summer. 

Formby, Merseyside

If you are looking for a stunning seaside location with a vibrant atmosphere and friendly people, Formby is a great place to choose. Formby is a hotspot in the North West for seaside goers and Formby Beach is one of the best in the area. Vast expanses of sand dunes coupled with the Red Squirrel sanctuary make this the perfect choice for you. 

Bristol City Centre and Redcliffe, Bristol 

Bristol is one of the most vibrant and exciting coastal cities you will visit, and the centre of the city, in particular, is full of life. The Floating Harbour is a focal point of the city, and there are many businesses, apartments, and eateries to enjoy. There is a weekly market in the streets of the harbourside and this truly British coastal location will bring back all of the nostalgia of past summer holidays. 

Our development, Boulevard View, is situated just outside Bristol and offers a range of 1 and 2 bed apartments starting at a price of just £145,000. Ideal for first-time buyers and those looking to downsize – you can enjoy modern bathrooms, bedrooms and living areas, complemented by a bright and spacious layout. 

Hastings, East Sussex

Hastings is a seaside town that has some stunning historical features. With Edwardian hotels, a Victorian pier, and a classic promenade this is the perfect seaside town. Hastings is the home to the first castle in England that was built by William the Conqueror after the 1066 battle. This beautiful town has some stunning views over the hillside and is a great place to consider living.

Deal, Kent

Kent is an undeniably stunning location, and Deal offers a beautiful calming seaside atmosphere with a vast sandy expanse to help anyone escape the hustle and bustle of inner-city life. With pastel-shaded hotels and stores adorning the coastal promenade, it is no wonder so many people venture here for some peace and tranquillity. 

Worthing, West Sussex

Situated close to Brighton, Worthing is a popular coastal spot and ideal for a summer getaway or when looking for your next home by the beach. Pull up a deckchair and enjoy this unique and lively coastal town in all its glory. With lots of ice cream stands and stores, plenty of unique bars and restaurants, and a vintage cinema – this is a great place to live. 

Broadwater Apartments are located 1 mile to the northeast of the seafront with the Town Centre within walking distance. East Worthing railway station with services along the south coast and north to London can be found half a mile from the property. 

Bamburgh, Northumberland

For those who love the countryside and stunning historical features, Bamburgh is a great choice. Bamburgh Castle is situated on the seafront and contains lots of artefacts and items to explore. Enjoy the quiet nature of this seaside town and a peaceful way of life. 

St Ives, Cornwall

Cornwall has many popular coastal locations to choose from, but St Ives has to be one of the most exciting. This stunning seaside town is buzzing with life and has plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy as well as seaside activities. Enjoy sunny weather, a mild climate, and a home that feels almost like it’s on another planet. 

Consider making the move to a coastal location this year and enjoy summer in style. 

MCR Homes has a range of developments across the UK, offering both apartments and townhouses for buyers and renters alike. Today we want to take a look at some of the most popular properties currently listed, to see what makes these developments so special. 

These are our top 2 viewed properties in May. 

Stockwood Gardens

Situated in South Luton on the fringes of Stockwood Country Park, these properties have been highly sought over in recent months. With excellent transport links to London, it’s no surprise that this development has been gaining attention. 

Stockwood Gardens offers 11 blocks of luxury apartments with a mixture of 1 and 2 bedroom properties to suit all budgets and needs. The interior design of these apartments is contemporary and sleek, and there are communal gardens as well as ample parking for residents and guests. This development also offers a Help To Buy Scheme which makes this a great choice for first-time buyers. 

The Old Works

The Old Works in High Wycombe is a popular development and has been gaining a lot of attention from potential buyers in recent weeks. With its idyllic location as well as transport links to Heathrow Airport and London Marleybone; this is a great option for young professionals or first-time buyers. 

Wycombe offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of restaurants and bars close by, meaning whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of London or a peaceful suburban lifestyle, The Old Works can accommodate this. With its bright and spacious design and choice of 1 and 2 bedroom properties – this is a great choice for those on any budget. 

Harden Park 

It is no surprise that this stunning development has gained attention online, particularly as we head into the summer months. Harden Park is a collection of eco-living properties in Alderly Edge that truly brings together modern living and environmental consciousness. North Cheshire is an idyllic and quintessentially English location perfect for those who enjoy pubs, parks, and a relaxed lifestyle. 

Harden Park is a community of homes that can be accessed by a private road and you will be able to make your home on a 4.5-acre patch of land. With detached and semi-detached homes on their roster – these homes are ideal for those looking for their family home. Each of the homes comes fully fitted with lighting, wardrobes, and kitchen appliances to make it easier for you. With high-quality ecological features such as woodlands and a lake on-site – these properties will make impressive homes. 

The Wharf

Situated in Altrincham, voted Best Place to Live in 2020, The Wharf has proved popular so far and many of the properties have been sold. These luxury apartments are set on the banks of Bridgewater Canal and offer excellent transport links into the centre of Manchester. Bringing together a thriving setting alongside a relaxed suburban lifestyle; these 1,2, and 3 bedroom apartments are perfectly suited for first-time buyers, young professionals, and families alike. 

Enjoy a communal roof terrace giving a view over the canal as well as ample parking for guests and residents. This development also offers shared ownership to help those on a tight budget. 

St Bartholomew’s Place 

St Bartholomew’s Place is situated in the historical setting of Rochester and boasts views over the Medway River. Founded in 1078, St Bartholomew’s has a long history and is even the home of a listed building that acts as a focal point in our development. We are excited to transform this building into 155 new homes consisting of studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom townhouses. 

The site is close to Victoria Gardens, and you will be able to enjoy luxury high-end living without losing any heritage. This project is currently under construction and looks to be a popular development. 

The housing market has seen a huge spike this spring. As we come out of lockdown more and more people are putting their houses up for sale or looking for a home to make a fresh start.

This surge in the housing market has been the biggest in a decade, and for those selling their homes, it is incredibly good news. The extension of the stamp duty holiday is a likely contributor to this rise in buyers, and the number of people completing transactions below the stamp duty threshold of £250,000 only looks to increase into the summer months.

So what can you purchase for £250,000?

MCR Property Group is going to explore the current housing market and assess what you may be able to get for under £250,000 in each region of England.

North East

The North East includes stunning locations such as Filey, Scarborough, Northumberland, and more. This picturesque part of the UK has the lowest average house prices – with that of a 3-bedroom home averaging at £152,034.

When looking for a home that is below £250,000, you will be surprised at how much value for money you can enjoy. It is not uncommon in this region to be able to purchase a completely refurbished 3-4 bedroom house for this price.

North West

The North West includes places such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Cheshire – and in this region, the house prices in this region have seen the biggest leap in recent months of 7.3%. The average price of a 3 bedroom home here is £193,357.

Depending on which part of the North West you look at, the prices could fluctuate a lot. However, for under £250,000 you could feasibly get a 2-3 bedroom house with a decent-sized garden in this part of England.

The Wharf in Altrincham is one of our latest developments, and you can get a 1-bed full ownership apartment from £189,950-£212,950. Although not a house, these luxury apartments are a great choice for first-time buyers, and their location in the thriving Cheshire town of Altrincham makes them a popular choice.

Yorkshire

One of the most stunning regions of England – Yorkshire is a popular place for tourists and homebuyers alike. Despite this popularity though, the price of a 3 bedroom home averages at just £188,538.

In Yorkshire, you will notice a focus on nature, and many of the homes on the market have historical value or natural features. For £250,000 you could purchase a stunning open plan bungalow, a 3-4 bedroom house, or a cottage in the countryside.

West Midlands

One of the main things to note about this region is the time it takes on average to find a buyer. It takes only 6 days on average to find a buyer, making it the fastest turnaround in England. For a 3 bedroom home the average is £218,545 – making it the priciest so far.

For £250,000 you could purchase a simple 3 bedroom semi-detached home with a sizeable garden and driveway. This is ideal for those looking for a family home.

East Midlands

As we move across the other side of the midlands, we see a decrease in the average price, this time at £211,814. If you are looking to move somewhere more rural and make a fresh start post-pandemic, this is a great region to choose.

For £250,000 you could purchase a small 3 bedroom cottage set away from the road and with a small garden.

South East

As we move further south and toward London, there is a clear increase in the average price of a 3 bedroom home, and in the South East, this is a whopping £372,655. Locations like Kent are idyllic and popular so it is no real surprise that homebuyers jump at the chance to move here.

For £250,000 you will likely be able to find a terraced home with 2 bedrooms and the size of the home will be modest. Your outdoor space will likely be minimal but it is a good option for those looking to downsize. One of our developments currently under construction – St. Bartholomew’s Place in Rochester, offers luxury studio,1, 2, and 3 bedroom houses starting at £154,000.

South West

The South West has a slightly more modest average price for a 3 bedroom home coming in at £291,861. For £250,000 and under you could find a lovely spacious terraced home with 3 bedrooms and a garden. The main draw in this region is the plethora of green spaces to enjoy locally.

Boulevard View is one of our properties on the outskirts of Bristol in the ever-popular South West of England with local transport links to the centre and national transport links as a few miles down the road is the international Bristol airport. For prices starting at £145,000, you will be able to purchase a 1 or 2 bedroom apartment with a fully fitted kitchen fridge freezer, washer dryer, oven hob, and hood microwave. These properties also come with a fully tiled bathroom with a shower and shower screen.

London

It is no surprise that London is a steep hike above any of the regions we have discussed today. For a 3 bedroom home, you would on average pay £644,648. Even with London being the only region to suffer a price drop of 1.1% in the last 12 months, it is still worlds away from other areas of the country.

If you had a budget of £250,000 and were searching for a home in London, you’ll be able to purchase a sleek and modern apartment with 2 bedrooms. Outdoor space is unfortunately not commonplace in London, which is why this part of the country is more popular with working professionals.

One of our developments, The Old Works, is located in Hig Wycombe which is only a 30-minute commute from London. These apartments range from 1-3 beds and start at a price of £189,950. Often, when considering your options close to London, searching further afield may be the best option.

MCR Property Group has a range of stunning properties for sale across the UK. Browse our active listings to find your forever home.

Via RightMove

Altrincham is a thriving town in Trafford, Greater Manchester. Voted the ‘Best Place To Live In 2020’ this area is rapidly growing in popularity and is the perfect place to call home.

This lively town has a lot to offer and here you can enjoy some of the best restaurants and bars in the North West. From comforting Italian cuisine at Sugo Pasta Kitchen to Porta’s Spanish-influenced menu – you’ll always enjoy a brilliant day out in Altrincham. 

Today we are going to take a look at some of the best beauty spots in and around Altrincham for you to add to your spring bucket list.

Broadheath Canal Waterways

If you are looking to stay local to Altrincham you can always take a stroll along the banks of Bridgewater Canal in the Broadheath area. The canal traces a path through Altrincham and up towards Lymm and is the ideal spot for a low-impact stroll with your family or friends. Travel for as long as you wish and take in the beauty of the waterways while maintaining easy access to many of Altrincham’s amenities. If you walk toward Viaduct Road, you will be able to stop off at a new cafe opened by ex-Rugby player Alex Shaw. Kickback Coffee is housed within one of the railway arches and is perfectly positioned on the banks of the canal for dog walkers and cyclists alike.

Dunham Massey 

Dunham Massey is a popular National Trust site in Cheshire and boasts another sanctuary for Red Deer in the North West. There is a rich history on the grounds of Dunham Massey – with 45 listed buildings on the property. 

Dunham Massey Hall is a stunning historical site built in 1616 by sir George Booth, who received one of the first Baronetcies by King James I. It is a Grade I listed building and offers tours inside the premises throughout the year. 

This park, in particular, is popular with the locals due to the stunning lake that sits in the middle of the park, as well as its cafe which serves food and drinks both for takeaway and seating in. The most wondrous thing about Dunham Massey is witnessing its foliage bloom and change through the spring and summer months. This scenic and accessible walk is ideal for both elderly adults and children and offers the perfect place for a Sunday Stroll.

Dunham also has plenty of fallen tree trunks and branches that are perfect for kids to climb on and play with. As well as this – Dunham is the perfect place for den building, and they sell ice cream to put a smile on any child’s face!

Tatton Park

Perhaps one of the most famous walks in the Manchester area is Tatton Park. Tatton Park is located in Knutsford and is synonymous with its red deer which roam the ground throughout the year. Tatton Hall was built at the end of the 17th Century and has been both a residence for the Lord Chancellor of England as well as a tourist attraction. The house and gardens are popular with guests and as a National Trust site – this area is protected and maintained to the highest standard. 

Only a 16-minute drive from our Wharf Road development, Tatton Park is the ideal escape from city living and provides a wonderful day out for the whole family. Whether you choose to have a calming stroll by the lake, explore the woodlands, or visit the house, gardens, and carousel ride; there are plenty of things to do. 

After a stroll around the park as well as up toward Knutsford at the far end of the park, you can grab a seat at the Gardener’s Cottage cafe and enjoy some delicious food and drink.

Tatton is a location that has something for everyone. for dog walkers it offers vast grounds for your furry friend to run around and enjoy (and a lake to swim in). Tatton has a farm that allows visitors throughout the year including a play barn for your kids to meet some cute animals and if you visit the gardens your child can amuse themselves in the maze too. For those who are green-fingered; Tatton Park hosts the RHS Flower Show every July with a wealth and breadth of stunning garden displays, artwork, and food for sale. Tatton also has food festivals and other activities throughout the year guaranteeing that there is always something fun to do during your visit. 

Spud Wood 

Spud Wood is a less well-known beauty spot close to Altrincham and truly serves as a hidden gem for visitors. It is situated in Lymm and comprises a small woodland walk as well as a canal pathway that runs along The Bridgewater Canal, incidentally the same canal beside which our Wharf Road development resides. 

Spud Wood is named so because it used to be a potato field, but today it is a popular spot for dog walkers and has a wide array of wildflowers and native grasses to enjoy. Perhaps if you are lucky, you will see the signs of a Badger set within the woodland. 

The best reason to visit Spud Wood is not the destination itself, but where you can walk from this location. Travelling one way within 15 minutes you can reach a charming English pub called ‘The Barn Owl’ and enjoy a pint while looking out onto the water. And heading the other way, if you stroll along the canal for around 40-50 minutes, you will reach ‘The Swan with Two Nicks’ in Little Bollington, and from there it is just a 30-minute walk to Dunham Massey. 

Trafford has many brilliant green spaces to enjoy, and Altrincham is easily accessible from some of the best beauty spots in Manchester. Consider one of our luxury apartments at The Wharf, Altrincham this year and find your perfect family home. 

It is with sad hearts that we at MCR Property Group say goodbye to our dear friend and colleague, Ricky Sachar.

“Ricky, you will be missed by all of us, thank you for your hard

work in helping the company grow, and we will never forget the laughs and good times we shared”

All MCR Property Groups thoughts and condolences are with

Ricky’s friends and family during this sad time.

Ricky’s friends, family and MCR Property Group would politely request for no floral tributes in line with COVID 19 guidelines.

For anyone that would like to show their support, a donation to The Christie NHS Foundation Trust – just giving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mcr-property-group3 would be gratefully received.

Spring is in full swing, and as the weather gets hotter and days are longer, pricing up the garden is a great idea. A garden is an important feature of any home, and as we reach the warmer half of the year we can look toward our gardens to bring some vibrancy, life, and colour to the property. 

Here at MCR Homes, we understand how crucial an outdoor space is for any home, and today we want to discuss some of the things you can do to spruce up your outdoor space for spring and summer.

Hang baskets 

One of the easiest ways to spruce up the exterior of your home for spring is to invest in a couple of hanging baskets. Hanging baskets can be placed on either side of your front and back door, and can display small flowers such as lobelia, marigolds, busy lizzy, and pansies. Hanging baskets can not only add a splash of colour to your garden but they can improve your kerb appeal, which is essential when it comes to selling your property. 

Create a seating area 

Part of creating a usable outdoor space is investing in a seating area where you can host parties or simply soak in the sun on a lazy Sunday. Consider laying a new patio or wooden decking and invest in rattan furniture which will elevate your garden and bring an air of luxury to your outdoor space.

Trim your trees 

Whether you are green fingered or a gardening novice – one essential skill to have is pruning. Pruning your large shrubs and trees is a simple way to get rid of deadwood and flowers, as well as tidy up wild-looking branches that look overgrown and messy. Part of maintaining a garden is keeping it tidy, and trimming your trees as well as other large shrubs can immediately vamp up the space and elevate it. If you are unfamiliar with how to prune a tree; simply choose a branch, locate a space just above the leaf node, and cut. Always cut just above the node to avoid damaging your plant. 

Plant flowers 

A colourful flower display is always a winner in a spring and summer garden, and there are two main ways you can approach this task. The first is the easiest and involves purchasing a cottage seed mix that typically contains poppies, cornflowers, and other colourful British flowers. You can sprinkle this on an empty flowerbed and throughout the spring and summer, you will see colourful blooms. The other method is to buy bedding plants from the garden centre and plant them yourself. If you are going for a certain colour scheme or style in your garden being able to plant flowers in an order that suits you can be useful. If you have a lot of space you can even create a display such as those you would see at a country garden.

Trim the lawn 

If you have not yet mowed your lawn this year, now is the time to do it. Over autumn and winter, your grass typically will lay dormant and grow very slowly. But by the time warmer weather hits you’ll need all hands on deck to trim it back and get it looking tidy and trim once more. By trimming your lawn every 3-4 weeks, it will stay looking beautiful all summer long. 

Manchester is the fifth fastest growing property market in the UK and it is easy to see why. This vibrant and diverse city has been on the rise for decades and it has become its own cultural hub of the North. Since the Victorian era people have flocked to Manchester for a lucrative and happy life, and the lifestyle in this northern powerhouse is largely the reason. 

Today we are going to take you through some of the reasons you should consider renting or buying with MCR and moving to Manchester. 

The people 

It’s a well-known fact that people from the North are inherently more friendly than those in the South. Once you decide to make your home in Manchester it won’t take long to make friends with your community. People in Manchester are sociable and chatty, they love a good pub, and they are always up for a laugh. Even in the midst of the city, you’ll experience a much friendlier and more relaxed life than in London. 

The pubs

There’s a running joke in Manchester that you can’t walk more than 20 metres without seeing a Gregg’s bakery, and this is also true for pubs. Manchester has a whopping 1912 pubs, including 416 in the city centre itself. While travelling in Manchester you’ll never be too far from the comforting atmosphere of a proper English pub. Manchester is also home to The Old Wellington which was built in 1552 and still stands proud in the city today – albeit a few metres away from its original location. 

The education 

Manchester is perhaps most famous for its Universities, with The University Of Manchester being the largest in the UK. Manchester is known for birthing some of the greatest scientific and mathematical minds in history including Alan Turing, Ernest Rutherford, and Brian Cox. Manchester Metropolitan University is also known for its exploration of science and the arts. There are also some outstanding high schools and colleges in Manchester such as Urmston Grammar School and Altruncham Grammar School. 

The business 

There are over 100,000 companies currently situated in Manchester and the city invests heavily in many sectors including: property, finance, manufacturing, creative and digital technology, and energy. It is the largest growing economy outside London and may one day even overtake the capital. For those looking to move somewhere with job opportunities and great career prospects, this is undoubtedly the place to be. 

The scenery

Manchester differs from its southern counterpart in one important way: nature is on our very doorstep. When you move to Manchester you can enjoy stunning walks a small distance away such as Tatton Park in Cheshire; The Peak District; and The Pennine Trail. Most people are dog lovers in Manchester and this is very much ingrained in the culture of the people. 

Manchester is a beautiful city and one you don’t want to miss out on. Consider browsing our properties in the North West today to find your perfect home in Manchester. 

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced plans to turn generation rent into generation buy. A new help-to-buy scheme will bring back 95% mortgages for those living in England and Northern Ireland from the 1st April. Alongside the extension of the stamp duty holiday, this will help many homebuyers get on the property ladder in 2021. 

COVID-19 saw some huge changes with regards to 95% mortgages and they became pretty much obsolete. In February 2021 there were only 5 95% mortgage products available compared to 391 in March 2020. This has had a huge impact on homebuyers who may have suffered financial strain during the pandemic and therefore have been unable to save a hefty deposit. 

As the housing market began to bounce back during the pandemic, this brought with it a rise in the average house price to £251,500. This has been a blow to many first time buyers who have been looking to purchase, and as such the number of properties bought by first time buyers with a mortgage below 10% has decreased by 80% since last year. 

The Help To Buy Equity Loan Scheme will be open from April 2021 and will run until the end of 2022, with the aim of encouraging the younger generation and first time buyers to step up onto the property ladder instead of renting property. 

Who is eligible? 

Any household that is ‘creditworthy’ will be eligible for this scheme. If your household is struggling to save a large enough deposit, the scheme will help facilitate your purchase with a reduced deposit being allowed, as low as 5% according to Which. It only applies to properties that cost £600,000 or less, and only applies to standard residential homes and therefore will not include second homes or buy-to-lets. 

The scheme could potentially see a slight rise in interest from the current level of 3-3.5% for 90% mortgages to 3.5-4% for the new 95% mortgages. However, lenders may adjust their rates and offer lower deals. 

Neal Hudson, housing market analyst for BuiltPlace, states “A 95% mortgage is no help in London and other expensive parts of the country because you bump up against the affordability tests. It will really be most help in the Midlands and the north.” It is important to consider that these changes are aimed at helping the market as a whole and not a group of individuals.

As the world looks to get back to normal in the coming months, it is important for schemes like the help-to-buy and stamp duty holiday to be in place for those who need financial assistance. 

If you are looking for your new home in 2021, MCR Homes have a range of houses and apartments that offer help-to-buy schemes. Enquire today to learn more. 

Via The Guardian

The housing property market has been a question on many lips in recent months, and contrary to what many might assume; it is on the rise in most areas. The UK property market has seen a small boom in the last few months with the HMRC estimating 121,640 sales in January which is a 24.1% rise year on year compared with January 2020. 

However with the stamp duty holiday ending in April – will this remain the case? 

As of now, property markets across the UK are open which means that estate agents are able to conduct in-house viewings and buyers can move home. As specialists in the property field, MCR Homes will be able to provide expert guidance to those house hunting in 2021. Despite the lockdown measures currently in place, many are taking the opportunity to move and there was an increase in home sales from 152,480 to 346,360 from Q2 to and Q4 of 2020, respectively. Stamp duty changes put in place by the government during this period is likely a contributing factor to this growth. 

For many people now is the right time to make a change after almost a year stuck looking at the same four walls. If you are looking to move out and make a fresh start post-pandemic, now could be a good chance to take the bull by the horns and do it. 

Since last summer, the housing market has been on the rise from approximately 40,000 sales in . The stamp duty changes put in place by the government during this period are most likely the cause. The stamp duty cuts vary however buyers at the moment could stand to save thousands on their purchase. It is important to note that this ends on the 31st March 2021. Take your chance before it is too late to take advantage of these changes. 

In 2020, The Land Registry calculated that property prices went up by 8.5% year-on-year. The average value of a UK home now is £251,500, making the opportunity to take advantage of stamp duty cuts now more advantageous than in the coming months.

As the housing market continues to change in the coming months – you can consider getting in touch with us here at MCR Homes to facilitate your house move. Whether buying or renting your next property, don’t hesitate to get in touch for advice.

House prices look set to rise in spring as the property market sees a surge across the UK. MCR Property Group alongside many other developers will likely see a surge of interest in homes and rentals across the country.  

The UK housing market is experiencing high demand as the country starts to come out of lockdown restrictions; and the recent Stamp Duty and Help To Buy Scheme news has only boosted it more.  

House prices look to receive a 0.8% boost of £2,484 in March and buyer’s demand has risen higher than any point in the last 10 years. Rightmove states that the number of buyers making enquiries on new homes are at a record level. 

The spring selling period traditionally shows a boost for the housing market, but in the first week of March 2021 alone there was a rise of 12% compared to March of 2020. 

It is important to note that there is a shortage of stock on the market at this time; and competition has likely also been a contributing factor to the price hike. 

Rightmove’s House Price Index offers a comprehensive view of the current figures and shows the biggest surge in the spring market that has been seen in the last decade. 

For sellers – the news only gets better as sold STC properties currently make up almost two thirds of every agents’ supply. It means for those looking to sell their home now is a great time to consider putting their home on the market. 

For those who are eagerly awaiting upcoming assets to the market – browse the properties currently for sale and rent at MCR Property. Liaising directly with the developer can save a lot of hassle and money, and could see you in your new home by summer 2021. 

Via In Your Area

The chancellor has announced an extension to the stamp duty scheme in England and Northern Ireland by three months until the end of June. 

The stamp duty holiday has been running since last July, allowing homeowners to forego paying stamp duty on any house under a value of £500,000. Property purchase tax on the first £500,000 of a home purchase was suspended saving home buyers thousands of pounds on their move. 

Extended stamp duty holiday rates:

•         Up to £500,000 – no stamp duty
•         £500,001 to £925,000 – 5%
•         £925,001 to £1.5m – 10%
•         Above £1.5m – 12%

The scheme was set to end on March 31st, but has now been extended to June 30th to help buyers in this difficult time. 

Stamp Duty Land Tax is paid by all buyers upon purchase of a home in England and Northern Ireland. Since July the stamp duty purchase tax rate has been increased to help improve the housing market and allow those who have taken a financial hit due to COVID to move house easier. 

Wales and Scotland have had similar relief for their respective taxes – and these schemes are due to end on March 31st. 

After June 30th, the nil band rate will rise to £250,000 which is double its normal rate. This will return to £125,000 at the end of September, starting from October 1st.

Rishi Sunak says the move was ‘to smooth the transition back to normal – and we will only return to the usual level of £125,000 from October 1st.’

The Stamp Duty Holiday was introduced last summer to help buyers who may have seen a financial hit due to COVID. The scheme was also aimed at helping the property market stay running throughout the pandemic – and this scheme has helped to increase January year-on-year purchases to 121,640 sales in 2021 which is a 24.1% increase from 2020.*

MCR Property Group joins other property development companies such as Knight Frank who say that the stamp duty changes will provide relief for those buying and selling homes.

This move from the government however is not cheap, and Laith Khalaf who is a financial analyst at AJ Bell states: ‘It’s not a cheap measure, estimated to cost the taxpayer around £1.6bn.’

What can be said however is that this move will likely encourage buyers and sellers to enter the market in the next few months to make the most of this tax break.

MCR Property Group offers expert advice and a range of both residential and commercial properties for sale and rent. Contact our team today for the latest development news and enquire about properties already on the market. 

Source* BBC News

The 2018 Budget will be announced and made public at 3:30pm today. There has been a fair amount of controversy over what the 2018 Budget may mean for First Time Buyers, Overseas Investors and Landlords. In this article we will make our own predictions on what ramifications the 2018 Budget may have on the British property market, based on industry insights and past projects.

Stamp Duty

In a conference in Birmingham discussing the current housing crisis, Theresa May announced that the 2018 Budget will introduce an increase in stamp duty for individuals and companies not paying tax in the UK. Theresa May stated that this is a result of overseas investors and foreign buyers and landlords ‘taking advantage of Britain’s housing market”. Stamp duty for domestic buyers or individuals paying tax will remain relatively high. However, first time buyers will not be required to pay a stamp duty on properties worth less than £300,000.

Overseas Investors

When discussing the 2018 Budget earlier this year, Theresa May stated: “overseas investors will have to pay a new levy” in the form of an increased stamp duty. Neither Theresa May or the Chancellor have announced exactly how much the proposed new stamp duty will be. A key issue that Theresa May discussed revolved around overseas investors exploiting the buoyant British property market to accumulate profit. This has resulted in many properties being left vacant, simply sitting there to make a profit. However, what this statute of the 2018 Budget fails to account for is the positive impact overseas investors have on Britain’s property market.

Many of the projects we lead involve overseas investors and provide a range of different properties to buyers and renters across the UK. Last year we brought over 152 properties to South Manchester. The property was co-developed with domestic and overseas investors and developers. The whole project was a success and provided a sought-after area of Manchester with a range of contemporary competitively priced apartments and larger deluxe townhouses. Increasing the stamp duty tax on every overseas investor could result in a domestic slump in new developments.

First Time Buyers

The 2018 Budget appears to maintain the positive level of support the Government has provided first time buyers over the last year. According to recent research conducted by THISISMONEY.co.uk, first time buyers have saved on average around £2,337 each over the last year. Chancellor Phillip Hammond introduced a tax relief in last year’s Budget and has provided first time buyers with a greater opportunity to get their foot onto the property ladder. However, the ladder is still by no means an obstacle easily overcome. Many first time buyers are still faced with the almost impossible task of saving up for a deposit.

Help to Buy

The Help to Buy scheme is a Government incentive aimed at making buying a property easier for young/first time buyers. The Help to Buy scheme is essentially a loan/ISA provided by the Government as a contribution towards the deposit. Help to Buy ISAs are typically available on new build homes although there may be exceptions to this. The process works like this: if the property is eligible, the Government will lend buyers up to 20% of the total cost of the property. The buyers will only be required to provide 5% of the deposit and can pay the HTB loan off interest free for up to 5 years.

As one of largest and diverse property developers in the UK, MCR Property Group, along with its sales and consultancy arm, MCR Homes, has seen the outstanding benefits the HTB scheme has provided buyers with. MCR Homes and MCR Property Group are currently leading a project in the fashionable Ancoats area of Manchester. The project is aimed at providing young professionals/families with luxury apartments in a vibrant, practical location to Manchester. The Help to Buy scheme will make the prospect of living in contemporary, fully fitted apartments in a central location more realistic and attainable for many first time and younger buyers.

Tax Relief

Despite the rising costs for property in the UK, Government incentives, mainly in the form of tax relief, for investors and landlords has been inconsistent. Changes in the investor/landlord property tax system have unsurprisingly placed concern in the minds of investors and landlords. The current buy to let mortgage tax relief that provided landlords with a significant deduction in their tax bill is changing, the way in which landlords declare their rental home income is set to be completely reformed by 2020 and the 2018 Budget could bring this closer. Landlords only pay tax on the net value of their rental homes, with the current tax relief they do not have to declare any profits made. The 2018 Budget could see this tax relief change and landlords will be required to pay tax on their profits as well as net worth.

Capital Gains Tax

Currently, investors/landlords are required to pay a capital gains tax when they are selling any property. Capital gains tax is the highest taxation on any commercial asset. With current system, basic-rate tax payers are required to pay 18% and higher-rate tax payers are required to pay 28% of the value of the sale of a property. According to The Telegraph, the 2018 Budget could result in landlords/investors having to pay an inflated capital gains tax. The Chancellor and Theresa May have both announced that the 2018 Budget will emphasise support for the NHS, financial advisors are anticipating that the extra funds will be sourced from increasing capital gains tax.

Ensuring the health and safety of our employees and customers remains our absolute priority as we market properties for lettings and sales during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The MCR Homes team will assist with their usual expertise, enthusiasm and commitment to providing the best possible customer care.

During these uncharted times, ahead of any meetings, viewings, or other face-to-face interactions, you will be asked four questions to assess any risk involved in your meeting with our employees.

The questions that will be asked ahead of any meeting are:

1. Are you or any member of your household displaying either of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, namely a high temperature or new, persistent cough?
2. Have you or any member of your household returned from a foreign country within the past 14 days?
3. Have you or any member of your household come into direct contact with anyone showing either of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, a high temperature or new, persistent cough?
4. Have you or any member of your household been self-isolating within the last 8 weeks in accordance with Government guidelines?

If you answer No to all 4 of these questions, your risk will be recorded as low. If you answer No to questions 1-3 but Yes to question 4, if the self-isolation was more than 4 weeks ago, your risk will be recorded as medium. If the isolation was less than 4 weeks ago, or you answer Yes to any of the other questions, your risk will be deemed as high.

We are only able to meet face-to-face and arrange viewings on properties with people who we assess as low risk and we will follow the strictest social distancing guidelines as set out by the Government’s Ministry of Housing.

If we assess you as medium or high risk, we will discuss alternatives and employ technology such as video conferencing to conduct the meeting or show you around a property, where we will be your eyes through the use of a smartphone or tablet.

Points of reference for viewing properties for sale or to let:

1. Viewings are strictly scheduled and controlled; we will not carry out any ‘open house’ or ‘block’ viewings.
2. Viewings will be restricted to two people only and we request that all follow the strictest social distancing guidelines as set out by the Government’s Ministry of Housing.
3. There will be no person to person contact (e.g. handshaking) and viewers are encouraged to wear face coverings prior to arriving for a viewing.
4. Gloves will be worn on viewings and hand gel will be available at appointments.
5. Viewing appointments are to be kept as short as possible – preferably no longer than 10 minutes, with a cut-off at 20 minutes.
6. We must allow a minimum of 20 minutes between the end of an appointment and the commencement of the next.

We strongly encourage buyers to view properties virtually in the first instance whenever possible, and only physically visit properties which they have a strong interest in.

Saving for a deposit for a first-time buyer can be one of the toughest hurdles. Acting quickly can you an advantage, letting you seek government help, signing up for high-interest savings accounts where your hard earnt money will grow the fastest. Below are tips to help you get on the property ladder faster.

Help To Buy ISAs

Help To Buy ISAs can be one of the best ways to save for a deposit. The government will add 25 per cent to your savings, up to a maximum of £3,000, you can also receive anything up to four per cent in tax-free interest over the duration of your saving.

Help To Buy ISAs don’t only apply for first-time buyers, they can also be used if you already own a home or if you’d like to save as part of a property club.

• Savings are capped at £200 a month
• A maximum £1,000 initial deposit
• It will take more than four years to save £12,000
• After four years you’ll be able to unlock £3,000 of government help

Bank Smart

When saving for a house you don’t want to be wasting your time on banking gimmicks and unwanted services so don’t waste your money on monthly subscriptions. On the other hand, perks such as money back on purchases can be worth it so shop around before choosing your bank.

Manage Debt

If you have a credit card, we recommend you pay any debt off to avoid hefty interest charges.

Loyalty Cards

Don’t dismiss how advantageous loyalty cards can be. Shop with loyalty cards regularly. Take advantage of extra-points deals and money off coupons.

Go Outdoors

Take advantage of your local parks, design yourself a free outdoor training program instead of going to the gym. You can also join many outdoor local sports clubs, their subscriptions are often much cheaper than most gyms.

A database of rogue landlords would be opened up to prospective tenants under government plans.

The Rogue Landlords Database was launched in 2018 and only has ten names on it so far.

It includes those who have been banned for failing to make a property habitable, or have been convicted of serious offences.

At the moment the list is only open to local authorities but under a package of rent reforms it will be opened up.

The proposals apply to England as housing policy has been devolved.

“This database has the potential to ensure that poor quality homes across the country are improved and the worst landlords are banned, and it is right that we unlock this crucial information for new and prospective tenants,” said Communities Secretary James Brokenshire.

“Landlords should be in no doubt that they must provide decent homes or face the consequences.”

More than four and half million households rent from private landlords in England, a number which has risen dramatically in recent years as buying a house has become more expensive.

“Renters have to provide references from employers and previous landlords before a landlord hands over the keys to a new flat. So it is only fair that renters get the opportunity to check that a prospective landlord doesn’t have a criminal record,” said Dan Wilson Craw, director of Generation Rent, which campaigns on behalf of tenants.

“This plan is another victory for renters, though we need much more effective enforcement to identify all landlords who have been breaking the law,” he added.

The move will be open to a 12-week consultation which will also consider whether to widen the scope of the rogue list to more housing-related offences, such as breaching the Tenant Fees Act.

Access to the Rogue Landlords Database is part of a wider package of reform to the rental sector, which includes an end to no-fault evictions, which allow landlords to get rid of tenants without a reason after their fixed-term tenancy period has ended.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Unprecedented two-year growth with a deliverable pipeline of £2.9 billion GDV

MCR Homes, the sales arm of MCR Property Group, has unveiled its ambitious growth strategy for 2019 following a successful second year in business.

Since its inception in January 2017, the company has seen unprecedented growth delivering sales across schemes nationwide.

Driven by MCR Property Group’s strategic land acquisitions, which total £2.9 billion GDV, MCR Homes has more 14,000 homes in its immediate pipeline for 2019.

The company’s developments are located throughout the UK and will be targeted primarily for first-time buyers and end users, with Help to Buy available.

Several high-profile schemes are set to be launched by MCR Homes in 2019, including:

• The company’s £275million landmark New Monaco development in Birmingham, which will see the delivery of 1,009 new homes on a seven-acre site in the city centre
• A £65million, three-phase development, The Old Works in High Wycombe, bringing 275 new homes to the commuter town
• The £60million redevelopment of Manchester’s Hotspur Press, including the sympathetic restoration of the original buildings, the construction of 171 apartments in a 28-storey mixed-use tower and a new public realm
• Trafford Plaza, a £40million 174-unit residential scheme that will see the creation of one of Trafford’s first high-rise residential towers

MCR Homes also operates within the Build to Rent and Private Rented Sector markets under its soon to be launched property management division, Regency Living, which taps into the UK-wide demand for high quality, managed rental accommodation.

There are more than 270 units across a number of developments already lined up to benefit from the additional services offered by Regency Living.

To bolster its growth, the company recently appointed Christopher Pullan and Matthew Walsh as co-heads of marketing.

There will be a significant recruitment push at MCR Homes in 2019, with plans to add up to 70 new sales and marketing positions at its Manchester headquarters and in London.

Chris Taylor, managing director of MCR Homes, said: “In just two years, we have established our position as a leading player in the UK property market, achieving these truly impressive sales figures in the process.

“Our emphasis for 2019 is to build on the strong foundations laid by our talented team, while generating increased sales and attracting greater levels of national and overseas investment.

“Despite the spectre of Brexit, the UK remains a prime property hotspot, attracting major overseas investment. Our development pipeline in London and key locations nationwide, including Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh, presents unrivalled opportunities for investors on a global stage.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]MCR Homes is aiming to complete a 12-home development in Alderley Edge by autumn this year as the scheme’s detached houses hit the market for at least £1m each.

Regency, part of the MCR Property Group, will build the development through its in-house construction business, and will deliver a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, all of which are single-storey.

Designed by Coda Studios, the development just off the A34 also includes woodlands and a lake over a 4.5 acre site, which formerly housed the 18,000 sq ft Yesterday’s nightclub.

The detached homes are on the market for between £998,000 and £1.2m and prices for the other properties start at £350,000.

Chris Taylor, managing director at MCR Homes, said: “Our expert planning team scrutinised every detail to ensure the creation of a pioneering and beautiful development, while guaranteeing minimal visual impact on the North Cheshire green belt landscape.

“Alderley Edge is one of the most desirable locations in the North West, and this special collection of distinguished homes further demonstrate the wealth and diversity in this sought-after area. We expect demand for the properties to be high.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Property consultancy firm, MCR Homes, part of the MCR Property Group has extended its city-centre Norwich development, Grosvenor House, with 14 luxury penthouse apartments.

The 14 purpose-built properties, offering an average of 932 sq ft for a three-bedroom apartment, form part of a roof extension to the original scheme. The extension takes the residential development on Prince of Wales Road from 65 to 79 units.

Placed on floors five and six, prices start from as low as £259,950 for a two-bed apartment and £304,500 for a three bedroom. As an investment, prospective buyers can expect an annual yield in the region of 6.5%.

Situated on the top two floors of the six-storey development, all penthouse units are fitted to a high-quality specification, including quality Bosch kitchen appliances and laminate flooring as standard. Balconies are available on select apartments, which provide stunning views of Norwich.

Grosvenor House was overhauled in 2017 to create a mixed-occupancy development for those seeking affordable, city-centre living accommodation. In easy reach of Norwich Railway Station, the former commercial block is placed near local amenities, with Riverside Entertainment Complex just a five-minute walk away.

Chris Taylor, managing director of Manchester-based MCR Homes, said: “Norwich is a real hub for growth at the moment, with expanding sectors in research, development and technology. The city’s gross value added (GVA) increased faster than that of London, Manchester and Bristol in the last quarter of 2017.

“There has been great interest in Grosvenor House, with high demand in the area pushing occupancy to over 60% already. It’s great to see young professionals and families settling in this desirable, city-centre location and benefitting from our competitive pricing and payment plans.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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A total of 228 new apartments are launching in High Wycombe as property developer MCR Homes prepares to bring to market The Old Works, its £65 million mixed-use development.

The development is set to occupy a circa 2.5-acre site on Leigh Street, which comprises a number of derelict former furniture factories. William Birch warehouse, one of the units, was once home to WM Birch Limited, manufacturers of high-quality arts and craft furniture after they acquired it in 1901.

MCR Homes plans to transform the entire site in multiple phases. The first, named de Havilland Buildings, is inspired by High Wycombe’s rich manufacturing history, in particular noted aircraft designer, Geoffrey de Havilland, and his role in building wooden-frame Mosquito planes for the Second World War.

Phase one will consist of 118 new-build studio, one and two-bedroom high specification apartments for sale. A second and third phase will see the developer build 110 new build homes, including one and two-bedroom apartments with duplexes.

During phase two, a number of properties will be constructed using a retained section of the William Birch warehouse. New office spaces will also be created to meet local business needs.

An 18-month construction programme is expected to commence in August 2018.

Prices will start from £199,000 for a studio apartment, with a Help to Buy application for the scheme currently processing. Suited to first-time buyers and home-movers, the properties will be released for sale in stages.

The Old Works sits one mile from High Wycombe rail station, which provides direct links to London in 23 minutes. In close proximity is Buckinghamshire New University, home to more than 8,000 students.

Chris Taylor, managing director of MCR Homes, said: “High Wycombe is the focus of significant regeneration. Given its excellent links to the capital, the town is attracting major investment, which is resulting in an influx of new residential and commercial developments coming to market.

“The Old Works is a landmark mixed-use development that is aiding the town’s transformation, creating a new community that will offer a new standard of living and working for residents and businesses alike.”

The Old Works adds to MCR Homes’s growing portfolio, which comprises more than 7,000 units in 15 locations throughout the UK.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Property developer and consultancy firm MCR Homes has delivered over £50m worth of projects in its first year.

The firm is part of the MCR Property Group and is already looking to develop 1.5 million square feet of property in the coming 12 months.

Managing director Chris Taylor said: “Our first annual figures are testament to the leading position we’ve quickly established for the business only 12 months since we launched.

“Backed by MCR Property Group, and with a highly experienced team behind us, we’ve been able to identify development opportunities that can deliver high yields for investors nationwide, as well as high spec homes for buyers.”

A total of 290,000 sq. ft. has been developed by MCR Homes since it was founded last year, with 52 per cent sold to residential buyers and 48 per cent to investors.

By the end of 2018, the firm expects to have developed over 1,500,000 sq. ft.

Chris added: “We aim to build on our substantial growth throughout 2018, with targets to increase value to £450m and number of units sold to 2,500.”

MCR Homes has developments across the country including Fifteen the High Street, a contemporary boutique development of 32 apartments in Kings Heath in Birmingham; 12 high specification new homes at Harden Park in Alderley Edge; popular penthouse apartments at Grosvenor House, Norwich; and 99 centrally-located apartments at Queens House in Sheffield.

The company is also expanding its UK reach, with key developments launching in locations such as Edinburgh, Birmingham, Manchester, Swindon and High Wycombe in 2018.

Further growth is expected in 2019 with an additional 5,000 units to be developed across the UK.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]MCR Homes, part of the MCR Property Group, is bringing phase two of its £30million mixed-use Edinburgh development to market.

Embankment West, located on Gorgie Street two miles west of Edinburgh city centre, has seen one of the two former Chesser House office blocks transformed into prime residential living.

Phase one launched in April 2018, fully selling out to residential buyers who benefitted from the Help to Buy scheme available on the development.

Launching phase two of the development, which also includes Help to Buy, MCR Homes has now unveiled the upper floors of the scheme, including penthouse apartments.

The development comprises a total of 123 apartments, available as one, two and three-bedroom configurations.

Prices start from £129,950 for a one-bedroom apartment and buy-to-let investors can expect strong rental yields of up to 6%.

The second block, still known as Chesser House, consists of 40 affordable housing units, as well as ground-floor retail and leisure space. When completed the entire scheme will be known as Elfin Square.

Chris Taylor, managing director of MCR Homes, said: “Demand for phase one of Embankment West was exceedingly strong, with 50% of the development already sold. We expect phase two to create a similar level of interest, especially among the first-time buyers looking to take advantage of Help to Buy and enter into Edinburgh’s extremely robust property market.

“Edinburgh’s population exceeds half a million and is growing, but there continues to be a major issue with undersupply of quality homes. Considering the city’s documented potential, developing residential space is absolutely key.

“Embankment West is designed to dramatically enhance the area, providing well-designed and affordable housing that meets the needs of this increasingly popular city. We’re excited to be a part of Edinburgh’s significant growth as it continues to make an impact on a global stage.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Government’s ‘Help To Buy’ scheme aims to help buyers who have a deposit of at least 5% to buy a new-build home up to the value of £600,000. The Government will lend eligible buyers up to 20% of the value of your new build home via an equity loan – you will then only need to secure a mortgage for 75% of the property’s value.

About Help To Buy

Help To Buy is a Government backed scheme which allows eligible buyers to buy a new-build home with a 5% deposit – therefore only requiring a 75% mortgage with the remaining 20% funded by the Government through an equity loan.

In the past four years the Help to Buy scheme has helped more than 200,000 people buy a newly-built home. The scheme now accounts for one in 12 of all first-time buyers making homeownership more achievable for people up and down the UK. If you’re a first time buyer it can be difficult to raise a large deposit to purchase your first home. With Help to Buy you only need just a 5% deposit to get a mortgage.

How Does It Work

• The scheme is available on new-build properties under the value of £600,000.
• The Help To Buy equity loan can be paid back at any time during your time at the property or on the sale of your home.
• The equity loan is interest free for the first five-years although you may still have to pay interest on your mortgage.
• Help To Buy is available to all new homebuyers not just first time buyers.
• You won’t be able to sublet your home.
• Help To Buy is only available on new-build homes in England.

Paying Back The Loan
Once you purchase your home, your home will be in your name, which means you can sell it at any time. You won’t have to pay your equity loan back until you decide to sell your property or at the end of your mortgage period. You can however, pay some of your equity loan back sooner. You are entitled to pay either 10% or 20% of your equity loan back as long as your loan equates to a minimum 10% of the total value of your home.

MCR Property Group is looking to convert a Victorian mill in Manchester’s New Cross into luxury apartments after acquiring a site on Mason Street.

The redevelopment of the 19^th century, 14,700 sq ft building at 32 Mason Street will be developed under its MCR Homes brand, with Coda as architect.

There will be 13 apartments over five floors, with a mix of one, two, and duplex apartments. The current building is largely vacant and was formerly home to fashionwear shops and manufacturers, and was purchased by MCR on 1 June this year.

Chris Taylor, fund manager of MCR Property Group, said the project would “honour the building’s distinctive red brick mill features” including the building’s original entrance and foyer area, and added the properties would be targeted at “young professionals looking to work and live in the city centre”. MCR described the project as “its first venture in Ancoats”, although the site falls under Manchester City Council’s New Cross development area.

MCR also owns a neighbouring property on Marshall Street which it plans to convert into 14 units.

Other developments nearby include the £17m StayCity aparthotel, designed by SimpsonHaugh, which is being built by contractor Bardsley.

MCR’s development pipeline in the city centre also features the Hotspur Press, which is being brough forward in a joint venture with Blue Dog Property. This features a façade retention of the 56,000 sq ft warehouse with a 28-storey tower built behind, designed by architect Hodder + Partners.

MCR Property Group played host to the Scottish Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, Kevin Stewart MSP, on Monday 15 April at its mixed-use Edinburgh development, Elfin Square.

Mr Stewart was shown around the affordable housing scheme by MCR Property Group chief executive officer, Aneel Mussarat, and asset manager, Nick Lake, as part of a wider progress report on a government-backed project to tackle the shortage of mid-market rental homes across Scotland.

The former office block, known as Chesser House, two miles west of the city centre, is a mixed use residential and commercial development offering 40 prime apartments, as well as ground-floor retail and office space.

The second block – known as Embankment West – has been transformed by MCR Property Group into 123 one, two and three-bedroom homes for private sale, available to purchase using Help to Buy.

All 40 units were recently purchased by LAR Housing Trust to meet its target of providing high quality, affordable homes for rent in key locations across Scotland. LAR Housing Trust will retain the name of this part of the development, as Chesser House.

Mr Stewart was in the area visiting LAR Housing Trust’s Westwood House development, another high value commercial-to-residential conversion, situated next to Elfin Square.

Nick Lake, asset manager at MCR Property Group, said: “It was a pleasure to greet Kevin Stewart MSP and showcase how our partnership with LAR Housing Trust is helping to bring vital, new rental accommodation to Edinburgh.

“We had a lively discussion on how the government and private sector can better collaborate to address the housing shortage the country faces and, with a number of high profile developments nationwide, welcomed the minister’s proactive stance on the matter.”

Elfin Square is expected to welcome its first tenants in June 2019.

High Wycombe: An Up and Coming Property Hotspot

As London house prices remain some of the highest in the world, living close to work is unrealistic for many of the 500,000 professionals located in the centre.

Commuting has provided many people with a viable solution to work in a city where property is just too expensive.

Subsequently, many of the boroughs that surround London are becoming increasingly popular. High Wycombe has become a commuter hotspot due to its proximity to London, outstanding transportation links and local amenities.

High Wycombe to London

On a train, High Wycombe to London takes just over 30 minutes, with trains running every 10 minutes to London Marylebone, making the train station one of the most frequent connecting routes to and from the city.

In 2016 the town was voted Number One UK Commuter Town to London, based on its travel time, frequency, cost and house prices.

The short time between High Wycombe to London and the much lower house prices, presents a rare opportunity to live close to London without paying the price tag.

Property in High Wycombe

Property in High Wycombe has represented year on year growth. 2018 has already seen an average £25,000 increase from last year, with demand currently outweighing supply.

The town has seen relatively little expansion over the recent years due to the Councils budget limitations, meaning private investment has remained the main development source of property in High Wycombe. The need for multi-tenure modern property in the area has remained seemingly under-met.

Earlier this year, MCR Homes recognised this growing demand, that if met, will strengthen the local economy and provide people working in the city with a better quality of life. Next year, we will bring  228 mixed-tenure apartments to the area.

Wycombe Schools

Wycombe is home to several prestigious and highly credited schools. Wycombe Abbeyis an independent all-girls school that consistently ranks within the top positions of GCSE and A – Level results in the UK. Last year, 84% of A – Level results were A* -A, one of the highest percentages in the UK.

Another shining example amongst the Wycombe schools is Sir Williams Borlase’s Grammar School. Borlase provides a wide range of opportunities for its pupils and prides itself on educating each student on an individual basis.

The highly regarded selection of Wycombe schools makes the area a great place to raise children or relocate a family.

High Wycombe Market

The High Wycombe Market is an open-air street market that dates back to around 1476. High Wycombe Market has become the hub of the community with a thriving selection of venders and produce.

Some of the produce on offer includes: Caribbean fruit and veg, martial arts paraphernalia, carpets and even exotic fashion.

Wycombe Market is easily found in the town centre and runs every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

Use the information available to you to find out as much as you can about a property, such as; using the photographs, floorplans, virtual tours, online brochures and local information that is available with most properties.

As soon as you have established the property is of sufficient interest for you, book a viewing with the agent.

Also, don’t forget to take a camera and tape measure on every viewing you go on – the camera is so you can avoid having to rack your brain about which property had the features you remember it doing. With cameras built in as standard on most mobile phones, this is easier than ever. But remember to always ask permission with the agent or owner before taking any pictures. The tape measure is for you to see if your current furniture will fit in the rooms.

Before you have even chosen to view a property, it may be worth spending time creating an image of your perfect home. Make a list of the various features you want this perfect house to have. These features should cover the obvious check list such as the rough size of the house and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms but also criteria relating to the location or house type in which your home will be located.

If you’d like to know more about our developments prior to viewing then please get in contact with our sales consultants will be more than happy to help.

In order to buy a home, you may require borrowing money from a lender. Often this process can appear complex, but in fact, there are only some basic things you need to take into consideration.

These are the main considerations when applying for a mortgage:

What Is A Mortgage?

Understanding the different types of mortgages available and the mortgage process can help you know when you might be ready to reserve a property or make an offer. There is a wide range of borrowing products and mortgages available to pay for a home. In fact, there are hundreds of types of mortgage products and several mortgage types depending on your circumstances. Getting a mortgage will be one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, so it is important to get it right.

This guide aims to help you decide where you can best source helpful advice from mortgage specialists and advisors.

There are many mortgages on the market and they are very competitive so it can be hard to understand what is on offer. It is a good idea to get advice from your bank as well as a number of independent mortgage advisors before coming to any decisions. An independent mortgage advisor is a specialist with in-depth industry knowledge of the industry. They’ll look into a range of mortgage products made available by the different lenders to find you the best mortgage to suit your needs at your budget.

What To Look For In A Mortgage

It is important to understand all factors associated with a mortgage product, it is not always a case of looking for the lowest interest rates but elements that will benefit your needs.

There are other factors which also contribute to the total amount you pay back to the lender over time.

APRC: (Annual Percentage Rate of Change) takes some mortgage fees into account as well as the interest rate and expresses it as a percentage.

Deposit Amount: The higher the deposit you put down the lower the interest rate you are likely to get.

The Standard Interest Rate: Your mortgage will switch once your fixed rate deal ends.

The Frequency Of Interest Charged: Daily interest tends to work out cheaper, however, there are options to pay it monthly or annually. will it be paid daily, monthly or annually? Daily interest works out cheaper.

Flexibility: Would you like to have the flexibility of being able to overpay your mortgage or being able to take a break from making payments without being charged.

Length Of Fixed Rate Vs. Variable: Are you happy with having an interest rate that is fixed for a long period or would you like to have more flexibility? Charges will be issued if you choose to switch your mortgage deal before it ends.

Mortgage Advice: Lenders and financial advisors are closely regulated and when they recommend a mortgage to you they must offer advice. When recommending a mortgage they will assess your income in order to establish your ability level to meet mortgage repayments. Mortgage advisors will look into your day-to-day spending. The process is there to protect you and to ensure you purchase a mortgage that suits your needs.

Despite the fact that mortgage advisors and lenders must offer advice, you can choose to reject advice and find your own mortgage deals based on your research and decision process.

Choosing to apply for a mortgage without advice is called an ‘execution-only’ application. Getting advice when moving forward with a mortgage will enable you to have more rights if the mortgage turns out to be unsuitable for your needs. If it came to a stage where you needed to make a complaint regarding your mortgage then you could make a complaint for financial miss-selling if the advice you were provided with turned out to be unsuitable for your circumstances.

If you don’t take advice then you take full responsibility for your mortgage decision. You could therefore potentially end up with a costly mistake in the long run.

If you don’t understand restrictions properly when applying for a mortgage then you can potentially be rejected by your chosen lender.

Reasons To Use A Mortgage Advisor: 
-They have vast experience in completing mortgage paperwork and therefore will be able to complete your application faster
-They will assess your finances to see if you can afford a mortgage
-The advisor will have access to exclusive deals with lenders which are not otherwise available to the general market
-An advisor will help you understand the costs and features of a mortgage that go beyond just the interest rates
-They will only advise you on a mortgage that they believe is suitable for you and will inform you on which mortgage you are likely to get

Mortgage Advisor Fees: Mortgage brokers might charge you depending on the service and product you choose. In some cases, other advisors will be free to you but they’ll receive a commission from the lender.

Typical Mortgage Fees:
There are some upfront fees that you must consider in addition to mortgage costs. Mortgages can vary therefore ensure you take into consideration all fees in addition to the interest rate. Typically you will pay interest on the capital you borrow and possibly other charges as well. These include solicitor’s fees for the purchase, insurance for the property and sometimes but not always, ground rent. In order to not pay interest, it is recommended to pay the fees upfront rather than adding them to your mortgage as you’ll pay interest on the fees applied for the length of the mortgage.

Mortgage Fees:
A booking fee of £99 – £250
An arrangement fee of up to £2,000
A mortgage valuation fee (typically £150 or potentially more)

How much can you afford to borrow for a mortgage? 
Before applying for a mortgage, you need to think about more than just whether you can afford the monthly repayments. Mortgage providers will look at your income and outgoings to see if you can keep up with repayments if interest rates rise or your circumstances change.

There are some major upfront costs that also need to be factored in when deciding whether or not you can afford a mortgage. You’ll need to ensure that you have enough money saved to cover all the costs demanding by a mortgage product.

Below is an overview of costs you are likely to incur when buying a home

Stamp Duty: Is a government tax paid on homes sold at £125,001 or more. As of April 2016, for people who are purchasing a second home, there has been a 3% increase for those buying a second home or buy-to-let property.

Deposit: This is the amount you put towards the cost of the property when you buy your home.

Valuation Fee: Mortgage lenders will need to value of the property you will be lending against this is to establish how much the lender is willing to lend to you against the value of the property. Typically, a valuation fee can cost anything between £150 – £1,500 based on the property’s estimated valuation. The valuation conducted by the lender will not encompass a full structural survey so the valuation may not identify areas where repairs or maintenance that might be needed to be done. The full report is conduction by a surveyor – mentioned below.

Surveyor Fee: Before you buy a property it is vital that you get the property checked by a surveyor. Any potential issues will be flagged up by the surveying report. The extent of the report is dependant on your requests and the lender’s requests. There is a range of surveys, from a basic ‘Home Condition Survey’ (around £250) to a ‘Full Structural Survey’(around £600). When considering the period of time you are likely to live at your new home and the potential money you could save on repairs in the long-run then it pays to conduct a good survey.

Legal Fees: It is the norm to need a solicitor or licensed conveyor to carry out all legal work when buying and selling your home. Legal fees can differ vastly depending on the law firm and the level of work needed to be conducted. Some of the work will also include; local searches to find if there are any plans in place that may cause an issue for you.

Electronic Transfer Fees: Is the lender’s fee for transferring the mortgage capital from the lender to the solicitor.

Estate Agent Costs: These are costs incurred by the seller to cover the costs of the estate agent’s services. Typically these costs range from 1% – 3% of the sale price plus 20% VAT.

Buildings Insurance: The lender will require you to take out buildings insurance to protect your new home against damage from floods, fire, subsidence and anything else that may cause damage to the property.

Leaseholders’ Cost: If you purchase a leasehold property then you will have to pay ground rent and service charges to the company that own the freehold. Service charges and ground rent admin fees are dependant on the property. Leasehold costs are an important factor when running a property so it is important that you do your research into charges demanded by the freehold owner.

Tip 1 – Declutter

It might sound like the last thing you would want to make time for before you move house, but a good declutter can be a useful exercise.

If you declutter all areas of your house including; loft, garage, the shed etc then you will get to grips with exactly what you own. Having a new beginning like a move tends to help us focus on what’s got to go.

If you need any further encouragement to do this, then financially it will really help you during a very expensive time. The more things you remove then the less it will cost you to move your possessions.

Tip 2 – Plan what will live where

After a good declutter you should have a great idea of what’s in your home and what you will need to move into the new home.

A great tip here is to sit with a plan of your old house and a plan of your new house and write down what you want to move where – this will help with how smoothly your move-in day goes. A quick sketch of the floor plan will suffice for the job.

Tip 3 – Colour code your move

From the rough plan you’ve created, you can add a bit more clarity by colour coding what items need to go in which room. Now you need to make that a reality. A tip is to use sticky dots on the floor plan you’ve drawn up of the new house and colour code each room a different colour. Then go round the house and colour code the items I want to move into each of the rooms.

Tip 4 – Create a hierarchy of boxes

It is all well and good having colour coordinated boxes piled up in the correct room however what do you do when you find yourself in a room full of boxes? This is where we suggest you take labelling to the next level so you can find the ‘essentials boxes that you need to unpack immediately vs. the ones that can wait.

Our tip is to pack the essentials for each room and label them up with a star or some icon that make it’s clear that it’s an essential box.
Ensuring that you have what you need first; opened and ready to go.

Tip 5 – Keep the valuables and essentials with you

On moving day itself, you don’t want to run the risk of not being able to get your hands on what you need when you need it.

You never know what might happen when moving home, you might experience delays and you don’t want to be trying toiletries, bedding etc in an unfamiliar house when you’re tired and ready to sleep in your new home.

Tip 6 – Prioritise

Now you have got all the boxes in the right rooms in the new house – it’s time to work out what you’d like to unpack first! At this point the mammoth task can seem daunting.

Prioritising can really help with this as you want to be sure that you don’t spend half the day unpacking all your best china when you are better off spending time on what matters. After all, you can get the rest of your family to help with those items when they arrive!

Tip 7 – Use momentum

Although leaving boxes for another day is very tempting the trick is to not to stop where possible. Try and unpack while you have the energy and momentum to do so.

Leaving boxes for too long means they are likely to become invisible to you – before you know it, it’s three months down the line and your boxes are still lying around the house.

Bristol is the capital of the South West, known as the star performer property market for the second year running. According to recent research by Strutt & Parker, the city is pulling in higher proportions of Londoners that have been falling for Bristol’s lifestyle and charm. When it comes to the property market it’s the city centre locations that have been racing ahead, the diverse local economy is ahead of its counterpart locations such as Cheltenham (6.4% house price growth), Exeter (5.8% house price growth), Bath (4.7% house price growth) and Winchester with a small growth of 1.7% growth over the last year. According to Knight Frank (October, 2017), Bristol is way ahead with 7.4% growth over the last year.

It is little wonder why Bristol has become so popular with home seekers, as Britains fastest-selling property market, homes on average take just 34 days ‘subject to contract’ to sell – making Bristol one of the speediest property markets in the UK. The regional city offers good career opportunities, a contemporary lifestyle and a good standard of living that appeal to those who have been priced out of the capital’s property market.

Strutt & Parker research shows that compared to the UK average of 61 days to sell, 63 in London and 93 in prime central London locations, Bristol in Somerset is headlining the property market. A sizeable proportion of metropolitan middle-class Londoners are leaving the capital for a city that has most of the benefits. Plus, you get more for your money, despite the buoyant market!

The number of homeowners moving house is at the highest level in 10 years, according to analysis by Lloyds Bank, despite warnings that the level of transactions has slumped.

Lloyds found that the number of homeowners getting a mortgage for a new home increased by 2%, up from 361,300 in 2016 to an estimated 370,300 last year.

This particular part of the market has been stimulated by continued low mortgage rates and higher demand for homes.

The estimated total number of mortgages last year was also the highest since 2007, at 729,300. This is up 4.1% from 700,800 in 2016, and 18% higher than the low in 2009, but far below the peak 10 years ago at 1.0138m.

Andrew Mason of Lloyds Bank, said: “We’ve seen a slight increase in the number of homemovers following a weak 2016. This could be down to low mortgage rates, rising house prices and high employment levels.

“House price increases will have boosted equity levels for many homeowners, enabling movement along the housing ladder. For the first time, home movers are choosing to pay an average deposit of over £100,000, with Londoners putting down nearly double this.”

“Taking advantage of increased equity levels by putting down a bigger deposit can really make a big difference towards what home movers can afford and can be the difference between a good home and the right home.”

The capital was the only area of the UK where there was a decline in the amount of mortgages secured by homemovers – down 6% last year as the market slowed due to a crunch on affordability and a slump in transactions.

The number of homeowners moving house is at the highest level in 10 years, according to analysis by Lloyds Bank, despite warnings that the level of transactions has slumped.

Lloyds found that the number of homeowners getting a mortgage for a new home increased by 2%, up from 361,300 in 2016 to an estimated 370,300 last year.

This particular part of the market has been stimulated by continued low mortgage rates and higher demand for homes.

The estimated total number of mortgages last year was also the highest since 2007, at 729,300. This is up 4.1% from 700,800 in 2016, and 18% higher than the low in 2009, but far below the peak 10 years ago at 1.0138m.

Andrew Mason of Lloyds Bank, said: “We’ve seen a slight increase in the number of homemovers following a weak 2016. This could be down to low mortgage rates, rising house prices and high employment levels.

“House price increases will have boosted equity levels for many homeowners, enabling movement along the housing ladder. For the first time, home movers are choosing to pay an average deposit of over £100,000, with Londoners putting down nearly double this.”

“Taking advantage of increased equity levels by putting down a bigger deposit can really make a big difference towards what home movers can afford and can be the difference between a good home and the right home.”

The capital was the only area of the UK where there was a decline in the amount of mortgages secured by homemovers – down 6% last year as the market slowed due to a crunch on affordability and a slump in transactions.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The amount of rent paid by tenants in the private sector has hit a record high, with landlords generating £51.6bn in rent in 2017, according to new estimates.

New figures released by Countrywide showed that amount is more than twice what was paid 10 years ago, in 2007, an increase that has largely been driven by rising rents and more people renting. A decade earlier, in 2007, the total rent was put at £22.6 billion.

Countrywide’s analysis suggests that for the past 11 years the millennial generation born between 1977 and 1995 have been paying the majority of total rent in Britain.

In 2017 millennials paid 59 per cent of the total rent, or just over £30 billion as oppose to 64 per cent in 2015. More and more millennials are beginning to buy their own home, which accounted for a shrinking proportion of the total rent paid, the report said.

Older renters still make up a significant proportion of tenants, with baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 paying £5.5 billion or around 10 per cent of rent in 2017.

“The rental market grew in 2017. More people joined the rented sector and average rents increased, meaning 2017 saw the highest total rent bill so far,’ said Johnny Morris, research director at Countrywide.

“As millennials age, more are becoming homeowners, so the total amount they’re paying in rent has started to drop. But the Generation Rent title still applies. Any fall will be much smaller and slower than seen by previous generations as less become home owners,’ he pointed out.

He also pointed out that for the second month running rental growth in London has outstripped the rest of the country. “Stabilising rents in central London alongside rises everywhere else in the capital has pushed the rate of rental growth to the highest level for 22 months. While the rate of growth outside London remains higher than for most of last year, it has picked up to a lesser extent. Across northern England rent rises are running at half the rate of 2017,” he added.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Once home to scores of Edinburgh Council departments, Chesser House in Gorgie is now set to become a block of superflats.

Unlike other city developments the original 1970’s tower block opposite Saughton Park, will not be razed but instead converted into homes.

The £30 million residential development has been launched in Edinburgh by MCR Homes, part of the MCR Property Group. Located on Gorgie Road, the Embankment West development will look to convert two former Chesser House office blocks into flats, including affordable housing and retail and leisure space at ground level.

MCR Homes made a decision early in the design stage to retain the existing building with the addition of a glazed rooftop level. Due to the age of the building, EMA Architects said the building will be renovated with new windows, improved air tightness and high performance heating system to meet the latest technical standards requirements. Insulation levels will also be increased to ensure carbon emissions are low.

The design aims to address some of the challenges raised by converting an office building into residential flats.

In the planning application EMA Architects stated: “The existing building has a relatively poor relationship with the street. Separated by a metal fence and parking the building feels detached from the public realm.

“There is an opportunity to repair the urban fabric and streetscape and create a more pleasant pedestrian environment and approach.”

Private and semi private gardens will be accessed off a new courtyard area.

Developers also plan to remove the single storey extension at ground level to improve the natural landscape in front of the flats at the Water of Leith boundary.

Chris Taylor, managing director of MCR Homes said, “Edinburgh’s population exceeds half a million and is growing, but there continues to be a major issue with undersupply of quality homes.

Considering the city’s documented potential, developing residential space is absolutely key. “Embankment West is designed to dramatically enhance the area, providing well-designed and affordable housing that meets the needs of this increasingly popular city. We’re excited to be a part of Edinburgh’s significant growth as it continues to make an impact on a global stage.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]OLD Trafford’s first ever new-build high-rise apartment development is to be built this year.

Property developer and consultancy firm, MCR Homes, part of the MCR Property Group will build Trafford Plaza, situated off Seymour Grove.

The building will be 15 storeys set in 1.5 acres of landscaped grounds and comprise of 174 one and two bedroom apartments. The flats will also offer luxury features including floor-to-ceiling glass windows and balconies.

The development will be less than a three-minute walk to Trafford Bar tram stop, providing access to Manchester city centre and Salford Quays. The scheme is surrounded by local shops, food outlets, with Old Trafford Cricket Ground and Manchester United football club in close proximity.

There will also be private car parking with 90 spaces.

Chris Taylor, managing director at MCR Homes, said: “Trafford Plaza is a unique development in the heart of Old Trafford – the building offers fantastic views over the ever-changing Manchester cityscape and the increasingly favoured area of Old Trafford.

“It is no surprise that properties in the area are getting snapped up; year-on-year growth, recent regeneration of the area along with its ideal location just outside the bustling city, combine to offer something for everyone. From shopaholics to football fans, Trafford Plaza is a desirable purchase for those seeking new build properties.

“Access to key transport links give easy access to the popular surrounding suburbs of Chorlton, Didsbury and Salford Quays while the city centre is just a short journey. The apartments are ideal for first-time buyers, families and young professionals, providing plenty of space compared to city centre alternatives.

“With rental yields attaining almost 7.5 per cent year on year, this will be an attractive proposition.”

To enquire about reserving a unit contact MCR Homes on [email protected][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Manchester-based property company MCR Homes, part of the MCR Property Group, has submitted plans for a 99-apartment development on Bridgewater Canal in Altrincham.

The scheme on Wharf Road, the mixed-height building will vary between three to seven storeys and sit adjacent to the canal, which has undergone a significant transformation in recent years.

An existing brick warehouse on the site bordering the Bridgewater Canal will be demolished to make way for the scheme, which will provide a mix of one, two, and three-bed apartments, alongside six two-bed townhouses.

The development will offer views over the canal and is in walking distance to Altrincham town centre. It will include 104 car parking spaces – 100% provision for prospective residents – and 99 cycle spaces, as well as a 6,000sq ft internal courtyard for residents.

Designed by Leach Rhodes Walker as architect, the professional team also includes Savills as planner and Enzygo as transport planner and ecological consultant.

Chris Taylor, managing director at MCR Homes, said: “Following major investment in the town centre and its flagship market, Altrincham is more sought after than ever. The property market is booming – prospective buyers and renters are attracted to its excellent commutability to Manchester, boosted by the rail and Metrolink networks, fantastic local schools and amenities.”

Christian Gilham, director at Leach Rhodes Walker, said: “This dynamic residence will be a high quality gateway building for those coming to Altrincham via the canal. It is designed to enhance the landscape of the waterway while blending with the style and scale of the existing houses adjacent.”

Rob Haslam, director at Savills, said: “Wharf Road will add an attractive waterside building to the available homes in Altrincham and contribute to the long-term vision of regenerating the Bridgewater Canal, a major part of local industrial and natural heritage.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]People buying new-build houses in England will no longer be obliged to enter leasehold agreements, the government has announced.

The plans announced mean anyone buying a flat – or a house – on a lease of longer than 21 years will also not have to pay any ground rent.

Earlier this year, it was announced that the government was seeking to end ‘long-term financial abuse’ by some developers who are selling new-build homes on a leasehold basis.

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said that the move is part of action to deliver a fairer, more transparent system for home owners to help fix the broken housing market and build a Britain fit for the future.

The announcement comes at the end of a consultation period in which there was an overwhelming response in favour of Government plans to tackle the unfair practices in the leasehold sector.

While there is an acknowledgement from the Government that where there are shared facilities, such as in the case of apartments, there is a justifiable reason for them to be leasehold; MCR Homes have for a while now, recognised that some developers aggressively ramp up ground rents.   All of our leasehold apartments however, are in line with RPI and therefore only increase in line with inflation.

MCR Homes welcome any new industry legislations ensuring that all of our clients can feel confident when using our residential or investment services.[/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”View Our Properties” style=”flat” color=”black” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fmcr-homes.co.uk%2Fproperty-investment%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Overseas investment from China in residential, commercial and industrial property totalled $33bn in 2016, up 53 per cent from a year earlier, according to global real estate group JLL, as Chinese buyers snapped up office buildings, hotels and residential land. (FT, 2017) 

Wealthy Chinese and Far Eastern investors like the stability, democracy and solid land titles that Britain offers, as well as feeling that owning property here carries kudos and offers a prime opportunity to educate their children in the English-speaking world. They are also keen to store some of their riches outside of their homeland.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511437963164{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Northern Economy Boost

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511439955793{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]Almost exactly two years since President Xi Jinping visited the North and announced the UK’s first direct flight to China outside of London, research released early in November revealed that the connection is delivering a significant economic reward, or ‘China Dividend’, to the northern economy.

Statistics from economic consultancy Steer Davies Gleeve show that since the Hainan Airlines route between Beijing and Manchester was launched last year, UK export values from the Northern Hub have soared 265 per cent to £200m a month.

In its first year, the airline has carried 90,000 passengers between the two countries. Meanwhile, inquiries from China to Manchester property and investment agents have doubled – with the ‘potential’ to create 850 new jobs in the city region.

Visitor spend as a result of the link has been valued at £140m, double the expected value, and there are now 40 per cent more people in the North now travelling to China than prior to commencement of the route Passenger volumes have come in at 15 per cent higher than predicted and the inward investment pipeline has doubled in 12 months, with international student numbers growing at twice the national rate.

Already worth hundreds of millions of pounds a year to the North, this “China Dividend” is predicted by researchers to grow substantially in the years ahead as the profile of the region increases further in Asia and as civic and business ties between the North and China are strengthened further.

The report, called The China Dividend: One Year On, is being launched as a Ministerial delegation from the UK Government heads to Shanghai to promote trade and investment opportunities in the Northern Powerhouse.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3341″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511439149029{padding-top: 90px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511438298650{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Strict Regulations In Place

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511440011956{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]The Chinese passion for owning property is so strong that by the end of 2016, rampant demand from Chinese buyers drove a stunning increase in China’s housing prices, with hotspots like Shenzhen and Beijing seeing pricing increases of 23.5% and 25.9% y-o-y. (Juwai, 2017)

However, over 20 city governments in China have imposed stricter restrictions on top of the existing property rulings in a bid to rein in property price growth in their own country and to dampen fears over a weakening yuan currency. However, with the yuan staging a sharp turnaround in recent months and with outflows dwindling, authorities have shown no signs of easing their campaign.

First-time buyers will now have to put down much more to secure a property in China. Minimum required down payments in Beijing have now been raised to 30% from 20%, while buyers looking to acquire a second home face even tougher rules – minimum down payments increased to 60% from 50%, and even higher to 80% from 70% for high-end properties. (Juwai, 2017)

With a narrower range of domestic choices, especially when compared with more attractive overseas market alternatives, as well as the opportunity to invest abroad whether for a new life overseas, educational reasons or retirement, it’s clear that the drivers are in place for a solid increase in demand from Chinese buyers for overseas property. In fact, Juwai.com saw a 6.7% y-o-y increase in overall Chinese buyer enquiries for international property in March 2017.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3278″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511438738672{padding-top: 90px !important;background-position: 0 0 !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511438309441{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

The Future

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511440202244{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]As appealing the UK housing market is to chinese investors, it too comes with it’s own pitfalls and obstacles. Chinese government allows China’s citizens to exchange up to $50,000 worth of Yuan into foreign currencies each year. This means that for chinese buyers seeking to invest in high-end off plan developments; typically commanding a 30-50% deposit in the UK to secure new build property, isn’t an option for many years due to restrictions enforced by the Chinese government. For example the average price of a 2-bedroom apartment in Manchester is around £200,000, with a 50% deposit this would mean it would take a chinese investor over 3 years to exchange currency and transfer money to the UK just to secure the funds for the deposit.

However, MCR Homes is different in that our distinctive investment process requires only a minimum 10% deposit upon exchange. Referring back to the investment example previously mentioned, this means a deposit for a £200,000 property could be secured within one year including enough funds to cover any other costs.

Should an investor be interested in taking a MCR Homes property off the market, all that is required is a £1,000 reservation fee. Once the reservation has been made and the property is taken off the market, the process of exchanging contracts will begin; at which time a 10% deposit is taken for developments with a build period of 12 months and under.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3280″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511438760989{padding-top: 90px !important;background-position: 0 0 !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Located in the middle of the UK within the South Yorkshire region, Sheffield has plenty on offer. Known as the ‘steel city’, Sheffield has grown to become England’s fourth-largest city. Exceeding a population of 635,000, the city’s ever-increasing inhabitants have pushed house prices up and increased housing demand. As one of the UK’s buy-to-let hotspots, Sheffield has been widely identified amongst property professionals as an area that will experience continued growth and remain a city popular amongst students. So what makes Sheffield the perfect city for property investment?

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Property Market

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511448971807{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]Sheffield city centre has potentially the highest rental yield of any British city. The average price of a flat in Sheffield rose by 10% from £118,538 in 2016 to £130,696 in 2017. The growing demand of flats for students and graduates provides a great opportunity for investors. This demand is driven not just by students and graduates, but also those relocating from more expensive areas, like Leeds and Manchester, as well as buy-to-let investors, many of which are targeting Sheffield’s vibrant student accommodation market. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”2709″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511450139403{padding-top: 50px !important;background-position: 0 0 !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511449021131{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Northern Powerhouse

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511448869604{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]As one of Britain’s ‘Northern Powerhouse’ cities, Sheffield is a prime position for inward investment. In 2015, the Government agreed to give £30 million a year to the city for the next 30 years, giving it the power to use new funding to boost local growth and invest in manufacturing and innovation. It is projected that this vast amount of investment will influence property prices throughout Sheffield and position the city on an upward curve for years to come.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”2364″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511450172588{padding-top: 30px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511451060517{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Economy

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511451044476{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]Sheffield City Region’s economy has an output of more than £30 billion pounds per year and is home to approximately 52,000 businesses which have created and sustained approximately 700,000 jobs. A recent report released by the Centre for Economic and Business Research found that the city’s economy is set to become £80m larger by the end of 2017. The UK Powerhouse report predicts that the value of goods and services produced in Sheffield will grow by 0.7% during 2017 despite the challenges of Brexit.

In February 2017, McLaren announced a new £50m plant that will create 200 new jobs in the city. The investment, supported by the council, could be expanded in the future is just one of many investments that will boost the local economy. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1511451252390{padding-top: 35px !important;}”][vc_single_image image=”2698″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511520379340{padding-top: 30px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511449851581{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Connectivity

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511450400669{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]Sheffield station, a combined railway and tram stop, runs frequent services to London St Pancras. The journey currently takes 2 hours however, this is expected to be reduced to just over an hour when the HS2 construction project is completed. It’s proposed that HS2 will run from London to Birmingham, then on to Manchester and Leeds calling at Sheffield; which would reduce the journey time from London. The journey time to Leeds and Manchester will also be less than half an hour. The station’s annual footfall is over 9 million passengers providing access to destinations up and down the UK. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”3351″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511450228503{padding-top: 50px !important;background-position: 0 0 !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511449064652{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]

Student Population

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1511449862557{padding-left: 30px !important;}”]The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University combined attract over 60,000 students to the city every year, including many from the Far East. The two universities are highly regarded, with The University of Sheffield rising to 21st in The Times University Guide 2018 – a ranking that highlights the University’s strong performance in providing graduates to leading employers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”1442″ img_size=”large” alignment=”right” css=”.vc_custom_1511450242637{padding-top: 50px !important;background-position: 0 0 !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title=”View Our Sheffield Investments” style=”flat” color=”mulled-wine” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fmcr-homes.co.uk%2Finvproperty%2Flocation%2Fsheffield%2Fqueens-house%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

House prices in the UK increased by 5.4% in the year to September 2017, up from 4.8% the previous month to an average of £226,367, the latest official figures show.

The figures from the Land Registry also show that month on month prices increased by 0.4% and are now £11,000 higher than in September 2016 and £1,000 higher than August 2017.

The North West experienced the highest rate of annual house price growth in September, at an average of 7.3%. This was followed by the South West (6.6%) and East Midlands (6.4%). The lowest annual increase was recorded in London, where the average price rose by 2.5% over the 12 months to September, followed by the North East, ay 4.4%.

In Wales the average price increased by 5.3% year on year and by 0.6% month on month to £152,661 while in Scotland prices increased by 3.1% year on year but fell by 1.3% month on month to £144,924.

The Founder and CEO of online estate agent eMoov.co.uk, Russell Quirk, comments on the index: “The market has continued to splutter along, registering yet more marginal positive price growth despite a sustainably lower level of buyer demand. This is certainly promising for those on the ladder and we should see a large degree of stability return, with a heightened level of buyer interest come January.

“It is yet to be seen what, if any, impact the marginal increase in interest rates will have. It is likely that, while many will sit back and see through the Christmas period as a result, there will be no medium to long-term impact on the UK’s appetite to buy property, with the cost of borrowing still very affordable for the masses.”

Last week, data from Halifax showed that property values increased 2.3 per cent between August and October, the fastest three-month pace of growth recorded since January.

Annual house price inflation of 4.5 per cent last month saw a typical British home hit £225,826, another record high, according to the monthly index from one of Britain’s biggest lenders.

The number of buy-to-let mortgages available has reached its highest level in almost a decade, providing new and existing landlords with more choice than ever.

The figures, taken from the latest Moneyfacts UK Mortgage Trends Treasury Report show that the number of buy-to-let (BTL) products has increased by 7% in just one month to total 1,725, up from 1,613 in August and the highest figure seen since December 2007, when 1,942 products were available.

Charlotte Nelson, finance expert at Moneyfacts said: “The BTL market has had an understandably bumpy ride of late, considering all the regulation and tax changes it has had to contend with.

“Despite this, the market seems to be buoyant, with the number of available products reaching its highest point since the 1,942 products that were recorded in December 2007, almost a decade ago.

“The market has clearly recovered from the tougher affordability rules that were put in place on 1 January, when it saw a dramatic drop in the number of products available to landlords. Since then, the number of deals on offer has gone from strength to strength, culminating in a rise of 7% this month, the highest month-on-month growth Moneyfacts has seen in 2017.

“This leaves borrowers looking for a buy-to-let mortgage today in a good position. Providers are now starting to get ready for further changes at the end of September, which will see lenders apply stricter standards to those with four or more properties.

“It is still uncertain how providers will choose to react to the new changes, but product numbers could climb as providers start to target their products to the two different types of borrower.”

For the first time, landlords who have a limited company established for their buy to let business are lending more than ‘classic’ individual investors who do not.

According to research from Mortgages for Business ‘Buy to let Index’, more than half (51%) of all lending in Q2 2017 was provided to limited companies. Nearly three quarters (73%) of buy to let purchases were with a limited company, up from three in five (61%) in Q1.

The index report suggests that the recent increase in lending has been caused by high volumes of purchase applications from limited companies, making up on average 77.5% of all buy to let applications in 2017.

‘Landlords are increasingly looking to limited company structures because of the benefits they bring in the form of tax efficiencies and softer affordability testing. The structures are not without their hurdles, however, and we recommend all our clients take professional tax advice before deciding how to proceed,’ said Steve Olejnik, chief operating officer of Mortgages for Business.

The Mortgages for Business measure also shows pricing improvements, particularly three and five-year fixed rates, as buy to let lenders seek to compete in the ever-increasing limited company space.

‘The changes to mortgage tax relief have only added to landlords’ growing tax burden and the buy to let sector has seen a definitive shift towards limited company lending, with 24% of investors considering incorporating or transferring property to spouses,’ said John Eastgate, sales and marketing director of OneSavings Bank.

‘Against a backdrop of political and economic uncertainty, investors’ confidence has also been knocked by weakening house price growth and new lending restrictions which will fundamentally alter the mix of landlords,’ he pointed out.

‘We are already seeing signs of amateur landlords leaving the market, paving the way for committed landlords, which will lead to greater stability and professionalisation of the sector he added.

Employer pension schemes are viewed as the safest way to save for the future, however according to the latest national figures, many believe property investment is the best option for a prosperous retirement.

A survey conducted in 2016 by the Office for National Statistics and Assets Survey of UK adults, discovered that 38% of people perceive company pensions as the most secure investment choice.

This is a 2% fall from 2014 revealing that opinions on employer pension schemes, which are of course compulsory, are now faltering.

The most popular option was property investment which was chosen by over 49% of those surveyed, a figure that has continued to increase since 2010 suggesting growing confidence in property prices.

Nathan Long, senior pension analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, suggested the figures pointed to confusion with pension planning being worryingly on the rise.

“Investing in property is seen as the best way of making most of your money despite it being one of the least tax efficient ways to invest.

“More people are now citing a lack of understanding as the reason they are not in their workplace pension, even though auto-enrolment means most will not make any decisions whatsoever to join.

“The tail end of the retirement journey also is starting to show signs of people expecting to work longer, but with more than a quarter of older people not properly planning their retirement the reality could be even more severe. As people live longer and the cost of social care rises, the likelihood of inheritances acting as additional income in retirement falls.”

Since the historic vote to leave the European Union many predicted a huge slump in UK property prices. This lead to some investors adopting a “wait and see approach” on the property market over the past year. However, recent research by eMoov found that in the last 12 months prices have actually increased 3.35%.

The recent research shows prices have grown from an average of £212,950 to £220,094 in the past year, dispelling any preconceived assumptions made by many before the result to leave the EU.

Former Chancellor George Osborne predicted an 18% fall in house prices last year at the G7 summit in Japan, warning the vote to leave would hit hard on the value of people’s homes.

The newly released figures show that regions where a majority voted to leave the EU saw the biggest increase, from an average of £191,611 to £195,957, up 2.27%.

Surprisingly, the top five regions that experienced the largest price growth were actually all home to a majority leave vote.

The East Midlands saw the most substantial increase of 3.84% followed by the West Midlands at 3.62%, the East of England at 3.46%, the North West at 2.92% and Yorkshire and the Humber at 2.92%.

According to Russell Quirk, eMoov chief executive officer, ‘The research makes it clear that those areas that voted to remain were home to a much higher average house price in general and it would seem that it is this upper end of the market in each region that has seen price growth slow the most.

‘What it certainly does highlight is that there are still swathes of the market, even in London, where the UK property market remains immune to any external political uncertainty, and this should stand us in good stead as we exit the EU and with the recent general election in mind,’ he added.

The result of last week’s general election led to the pound falling to an eight-week low and demonstrating once again the vulnerability of Sterling in the current economic climate.

Sterling tumbled around 0.6 per cent to 1.1311 against the euro and 1.2689 against the US dollar after losing around 1.5 per cent on Friday after the UK election ended in hung parliament.

Although the currency recovered once Theresa May announced her intentions of forming a coalition with the Democratic Unionist party (DUP), overseas investors may look to take advantage of the pound’s depreciation value against other major foreign currencies.

Since the vote to leave the European Union, many international property investors have been attracted to the UK property market. This further decline in the pound coupled with a lack of supply and ever-growing demand could encourage further investment.

Hong Kong and China, both corporate individual investors, will remain a magnet for UK property investment despite future uncertainty.

“The worst-case scenario for overseas investors, including from Hong Kong, was a Labour victory,” said George Brock, a political analyst. “Its manifesto promised to raise corporation tax from 19 to 26 per cent. To fund its very ambitious objectives, it would have to raise taxes. The easiest targets are foreigners, the wealthy and property. It could have imposed taxes on second properties and those purchased but left empty.”

“Since Britain is leaving the European Union, it needs foreign investment even more than ever,” said Brock. “China and Hong Kong are important sources of such investment. So Theresa May cannot afford to upset them.

“The UK has many attractions as an investment destination. It has a strong legal system and excellent lawyers which protect your asset. If you buy property in France or Spain, you discover there is a law or regulation you did not know about. London remains a global city that attracts and will continue to attract investment from around the world. You are buying a liquid asset.”

Property has shown for time and again that it will hold and increase its value in the face of political and economic turbulence. This latest general election makes it the third consecutive year where the British public have been required to turn out to the polls, following the EU referendum last year and a General Election in May 2016. The truth is that UK property, once again, is more than likely set to be the constant for those looking for safe haven for their money whether domestic or overseas.

The rate of mortgage applications resulting in completions has risen to 69% in Q1 2017, up from less than half (48%) a year earlier.

This is welcome news to first-time buyers who fear that getting a foothold on the property ladder would become increasingly difficult for years to come. Research suggests that intense competition between lenders has forced them into making it easier for borrowers to access loans.

The figures published by Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) looked at mortgage applicants’ interactions with brokers from the first point of contact to completion of a loan. It found that 84% of applications by first-time buyers resulted in a mortgage offer, up from 70% in the first three months of 2016.

Peter Williams, IMLA executive director, said: “First-time buyers’ struggles have been highly publicised, with affordability stretched by rising house prices and modest income growth. However, rising levels of mortgage inquiries, applications and completions shows that a significant number of first-time buyers are still both willing and able to get a foot on the property ladder.”

“Low mortgage rates have contributed to this improving outlook for first-time mortgage borrowers.”

Separate lending figures, released by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), suggest the first time buyer market is in improving health, showing that first time buyers borrowed £12.3 billion in the first quarter of 2017, up 10% from the first quarter of 2016.

Overall there is an improving picture for residential buyers who are taking their first steps in the road to purchasing their own home. At MCR Homes, we understand that finding your perfect home can be a difficult process and we are here to help. We have an expansive choice of properties, any of which could be just perfect for you. Click here to find your new home.

The average asking price for a property in the UK hit a new record high this month, despite speculation around the housing market slowing down in light of the snap election and Brexit.

Following on from our most recent article, How Will The Snap Election Affect The UK Property Market?, figures released by Right Move reaffirm the strength in the property market with the election run-up and Brexit uncertainty failing to knock market momentum.

RightMove House Price Index reported a 1.2 per cent rise on the average price of a UK home, making the average, a high figure of £317,281, an increase of £3,626 from the previous peak in April 2017. Asking prices have been on an upward trend for the past five years and during that time the average price tag of a home is up by £60,000.

Director of Rightmove, Miles Shipside said: “Whilst all-time high asking prices or economic and political uncertainty could be deterrents to would-be home buyers, this month shows another strong set of figures.”

Pre-election periods often cause a pause in housing activity, but the number of sales agreed by estate agents was 2% higher in the year to date than the same period in the previous election year of 2015, Rightmove said.

“Demand is exceeding supply in many parts of the country and continues to push up the prices of newly-marketed homes. Spring is in the air and home movers are springing up the housing ladder.

The strongest sector for price growth appears to be typical family homes and the report from Rightmove states typical family homes have seen the biggest price rise, recording a 5.4% year-on-year jump.

“What seems to be happening is that moving pressures are understandably taking priority over electioneering and Brexit worries. For many in this group, it seems that moving is definitely on their manifesto.”

At MCR Homes, we understand that finding your perfect home can be a difficult process and we are here to help. We have an expansive choice of properties, any of which could be just perfect for you.