maitlands news sept 2014

maitlandsnewsFree valuationsWith property prices continuing to fluctuate and so much reported in the media, now is the time to find out what your home is actually worth today. Read on to find out more about our free, no-obligation valuation offer.

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The truth about the property market where you liveFor months we have been faced with growing reports in the media of property prices growing by some 10%. Whilst this may be true for select areas in London and the South East, those increases have certainly not been seen across the board locally.

Inside this paper we look to provide a true reflection of what is actually happening locally based on our extensive statistics from the first half of the year. Read on to find out more.

Land and New HomesWith major growth across the region in the development of land and new homes, we are delighted to launch a new arm to our business with the introduction of our Maitlands Land and New Homes team. With over 40 years’ experience, we can deliver a complete bespoke service to developers and land owners, ranging from an integrated land and planning service through to sales support for the development. Read on to learn more.

With Christmas just a mere 15 weeks away, the festive period is fast upon us. Time is quickly running out if you aspire to be in a new home for Christmas and New Year. With tougher lending criteria now in place, with the introduction of ‘stress testing’, the mortgage process is inevitably taking longer to complete and so time really is moving on to be in your next dream home in time.

So, if you are in need of that extra bit of room to host all of your family and friends this festive period, now is the time to act. Read on to find out more and see our free valuation offer to begin your next move.

New home for Christmas? Now is the time to act

Maitlands Maitlands News Property Update Autumn 2014

If you’re thinking of moving, make your next move with Maitlands maitlands.biz2

Ivybridge 8 Glanvilles Mill Ivybridge Devon, PL21 9PS Tel: 01752 895379

Plympton 3 Plymouth Road Plympton Devon, PL7 4JP Tel: 01752 344322

Plymouth Ground Floor Studio 5-11, 5 Millbay Road Plymouth, PL1 3LF Tel: 01752 661000

Saltash 136 Fore Street Saltash Cornwall, PL12 6JR Tel: 01752 845396

Lettings Tel: 01752 661111

Commercial Tel: 01752 661234

maitlands.biz

A warm welcome to this, our third edition of the Maitlands newspaper. After a busy start to the year, the heat of the market has certainly started to cool both nationally and, more importantly, regionally.

Price increases across the country in the first quarter were running at 3.7% and that rate increase in the second quarter fell to 2.6%.

The good news is that it is still a great time to move. If sensible, sellers can still find good interest in their property. Despite tougher criteria, buyers will find that lenders are still willing to lend and often rates are still extremely attractive.

Demand for all types of property remains strong, albeit buyers are starting to get a bit more choice on what they can buy. First-time buyers continue to increase in numbers, as do buyers looking for long-term investment opportunities. However, by far the biggest area of interest is in the family home market, right across the region.

Future-proofing your mortgageMany of our new buyers and existing clients are spending time future-proofing for any short term increases in interest rates by spending time with our in-house mortgage advisors, looking at ways of fixing their payments to alleviate these concerns. We all know that it is only a matter of time before interest rates do move from their all-time low - when that will be is out of any of our control but you can do things to mitigate the risk with your own financial planning. Read on to find out more about the changing mortgage market and its implications for you and your home. What lies ahead?Now Christmas is fast approaching and we will all be spending increasing amounts of time inside our home, many of you may start to think that it is time for a change, whether that is upsizing, downsizing or a change of area. If you are thinking about moving in the coming year, why not take advantage of our free valuation offer to find out what your home is worth today and what your options are moving forward? Read on to find out more.

On behalf of all at Maitlands, we would like to say a big thank you for taking the time to read our paper and we wish you all the best for the remainder of 2014.

Looking ahead to the final quarter and the changing marketplace


3If you’re thinking of moving, make your next move with Maitlands maitlands.biz

At the end of the first half of 2014, we used our extensive data to analyse the real situation and to give a true reflection of what is actually happening where we live rather than several hundred miles away.

Comparing activity in the marketplace from January until June this year, with the same period in 2013, we have found that the picture here in Plymouth and the surrounding areas is quite different to the national reports of prices rising some 10% or more. In fact, we have actually seen the average price of properties sale agreed in this period fall slightly.

In the first half of 2013, the average sale agreed price was £185,640, compared with £181,910 this year – a fall of almost £4,000. This reduction in price could be attributed to the increasing number of first-time buyers that we have witnessed coming to the market. With many of these looking at properties sub £150,000, in turn this may have had a knock-on effect on the average house price, however it is certainly not the 20% increase that the national media have recently been reporting.

Property supply Nationally, rising property prices are being attributed to a shortage in supply of homes coming onto the market. Whilst we are not seeing the massive shortages that are being reported nationally, locally we have brought to the market virtually the same amount of property this year as we did in the same period last year; however, there is still a strong demand for quality properties marketed at the right price. Over the first half of this year, we have agreed sales on 95% of the properties that were new to the market with us, an increase of 3% on the same period in 2013. So yes, whilst this is an increase, it is not to the extent we are being led to believe is happening across the country.

Increasing prospective buyers Year-on-year we have experienced an increase of some 15% in the number of prospective buyers who are registered with our four branches. This increase is again linked to the growing number of first-time buyers who are looking to enter the market, with a 16% increase in buyers registered and a 20% increase in buy-to-let investors compared to the same period last year.

So whilst there are some really positive signs locally, it is not to the extent that is often reported. The worrying concern is that the Bank of England and the government are looking at a national picture and setting policy based on a small area of London and the South East.

From a homeowner perspective, whilst it is interesting to see what is happening nationally, it is important to know the real facts where we live, rather than rely on national media or government opinions. As these figures show, we are clearly not in ‘boom’ territory. In fact, with the new mortgage regulations now coming into force, things are already getting harder for buyers, which is likely to have a knock-on effect for future demand.

The remainder of the year Our advice for the remainder of the year is to remain sensible and not let national headlines cloud your expectations. As our figures show, there is clearly still a strong demand for properties which are marketed at the right price.

Those looking to sell need to ensure that they choose an agent that gives an honest, achievable valuation, based on accurate information on what is actually going on in the local marketplace, rather than pricing above market demand to win your business.

To find out what is happening where you live or for some helpful advice on your move, visit your local Maitlands branch today.

The truth about property prices where you live

For a number of months now there have been countless reports of another boom in the property market and that house prices are out of control and need curbing. However, these reports are based on activity in some areas in London and the South East, rather than here in Devon and Cornwall where we live.

Paul Stone, Sales Director

Source: Stats are taken from Maitlands’ own customer data records comparing the period between 1st January - 25th June 2014 with the same period in 2013.



Matt Johns of the Mortgage Advice Bureau comments on how the Mortgage Market Review’s stress tests are helping to prepare buyers for their future.

With mortgage rates now increasing, both current and prospective homebuyers need to be aware of the increase in their mortgage repayments for when interest rates eventually rise.

The Mortgage Market Review (MMR) was officially introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in April, and was brought in to allow lenders to determine a borrower’s affordability if such a time was to arise. Under the MMR rules, lenders must now check that you can afford your repayments – both now and in the future, and they do this through processes such as mortgage stress tests.

What is a mortgage stress test?With a base rate rise inevitable, the FCA has stated that borrowers must not receive a loan if a bigger mortgage repayment could “break” their finances. You will be extensively checked, with your day-to-day finances and spending coming under intense investigation.

With the new rules, lenders will need to know everything about your finances, from how much you earn to how much you spend on food and utility bills every month.Research carried out by Experian this month revealed that homebuyers are underestimating what their mortgage repayments could be by as much as £650 if interest rates were to rise.

Whilst this may sound like a panicking statistic, this is one of the main factors why the MMR has been introduced to the market.

As well as ensuring that a return to irresponsible lending that took place in the run-up to the credit crisis is avoided, the MMR aims to protect borrowers from falling behind in their repayments, which is why doing a check now, will prepare you in good time for when the rates rise.

When the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee votes to increase the base rate, expectations are that it will be increased in a controlled manner until it reaches between 3-6 per cent to minimise the risk exposure level.

If a homebuyer was to purchase a £235,000 property, and had a combined average household income of £50,674, research by Experian shows that they are claiming they can afford an average mortgage repayment of £780 per month.

However, if rates were to indeed increase to 5.5 per cent at the end of a typical two-year fixed deal, the homebuyer could find themselves paying around £1,440 per month.

As the economy continues to improve, interest rates are inevitably going to rise. This is why it is better that the MMR is letting borrowers know now how much they can afford, rather than a year from now, when it is too late.

Whilst the MMR continues to look to the future, so should you. Regardless of what measures are taken by the Bank of England and Government, there is always going to be a risk factor when taking out a mortgage, which is why considering taking out income protection insurance and seeking professional advice should be a serious consideration.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

There will be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.

How is the Mortgage Market Review helping you to prepare for the future?

Now is the time to seek advice to understand the implications for you, your mortgage and your future home aspirations.

For further information or to book an appointment with Matt: Call: 01752 204000 Email: [email protected] or Visit: www.mabsouthwest.co.uk

Matt Johns, Mortgage Advice Bureau


Find out what your property is worth today with our free valuation offer. See p24 for details.

New Homes

Park Street, Ivybridge –– From £165,950 AVAILABLE TO VIEW NOW***EXCITING NEW BUILD DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEART OF IVYBRIDGE***HELP TO BUY SCHEME AVAILABLE***A selection of cottage style two double bedroom properties with two en-suites, allocated parking and rear courtyard garden.

Experience the difference

maitlands.bizIvybridge / Plymouth / Plympton / Saltash –– 0808 1789866

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Mallet Road, Ivybridge –– Asking Price of £149,950A two bedroom end of terrace property perfect as a first-time buy or buy-to-let investment. With enclosed garden and allocated parking spaces, this property is also positioned close to a local primary school. The accommodation briefly comprises lounge, kitchen, two double bedrooms and family bathroom. EPC: EER C - EIR C

Junction Gardens, St Judes –– Shared Ownership £60,000This modern two double bedroom apartment in St Judes with allocated parking is being sold on a shared ownership basis with a 50% share on offer. EPC: EER B - EIR B

Orchard Close, Plympton –– Asking Price of £149,950This terraced house is situated in the popular estate of Upper Chaddlewood in Plympton. The property benefits from two double bedrooms. EPC: EER C -EIR C

Carrolls Way, Staddiscombe –– Asking Price of £144,950A gorgeous, modern two bedroom first floor apartment, situated within a popular modern development in Plymstock, offering parking and an enclosed garden. Other benefits include: En-suite, double glazing & gas c/heating. EPC: EER B - EIR B

Prospect Walk, Lower Burraton –– Offers in Excess of £160,000***WONDERFUL GARDENS! *** This fantastic three bedroom end terraced property also offers many other benefits including; lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, off street location, garage and parking.Lower Burraton is a popular area with buyers and an Internal viewing is highly recommended! EPC: EER D - EIR D

Higher Green, South Brent –– OIEO £160,000An extended two double bedroom property enjoying South Westerly facing gardens. Offered for sale with no onward chain, the property briefly comprises entrance porch, lounge, kitchen/diner, second reception area, two double bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside there is off road parking and front and rear gardens. EPC: EER D - EIR C



Act now to be in your new home for Christmas

The nights are drawing in and that means one thing:

Christmas is near.

Although summer is not yet a distant memory, time is quickly running out to buy or sell your property to be in your new home for the festive period.

With tougher mortgage lending criteria in place, the process of moving is inevitably taking longer to complete. So, if you are thinking about moving

this side of Christmas, now is the time to act.

For a free valuation of your current home or for help in starting your property search, contact your local Maitlands team today.

until Christmas


Admiralty Street, Stonehouse –– Offers in region of £210,000A beautifully presented and well looked after mid-terrace property oozing character and charm throughout. The property is deceptively big once you’re inside - it boasts three reception rooms, two good-sized double bedrooms and a further generous single room, with a larger than average private courtyard. EPC Rating C

Hobart Street, Plymouth –– Offers in Excess of £194,950A stunning top floor apartment that offers both sea and city views. Purpose built, this modern apartment has solid wood flooring with a modern kitchen and bathroom. It has the added benefit of a south-facing balcony. EPC Rating C

Outland Road, Plymouth –– Offers in region of £250,000Maitlands City are delighted to offer this 1930s built semi-detached family home to the market. Very well positioned a short walk from Central Park and all the main routes in and out of the City, this home offers very nicely proportioned accommodation. EPC Rating D

Penthouse, The Crescent, Plymouth –– Offers in region of £325,000Simply stunning three bedroom penthouse apartment, situated in Ocean Crescent. Beautifully appointed on the 8th and 9th floors, this very high spec duplex offers full length windows providing fantastic city views.

Custom House Lane, Plymouth –– Offers in Excess of £550,000WATERFRONT PROPERTY WITH A MOORING ** This exceptional four/five bedroom property is situated in one of the most envious positions in Plymouth, with uninterrupted views over the marina and Plymouth Sound, you can’t fail to enjoy these views. The accommodation is over four floors and offers spacious accommodation comprising of a study/bedroom five with a shower room, lounge, separate dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, four further bedrooms and two further en-suites, plus a family bathroom. With two balconies to the rear overlooking the marina and a balcony to the front, there is plenty of space to socialise. The property benefits from a garage and driveway and a 14 metre mooring in the marina. EPC Rating C

Endeavour Court, Plymouth –– Offers in region of £200,000This modern five bed end of terrace townhouse is finished to a high standard throughout and deceptively spacious offering flexible accommodation depending on your demands. EPC Rating B


New Homes Ocean Crescent, Plymouth –– Prices from £95,000 High specification studio, one bed, two bed and penthouse duplex apartments in the heart of Plymouth


maitlands.bizPlymouth –– 01752 661000



When it comes to moving, the importance of looking at your home and its contents subjectively should not be overlooked. Your teenagers’ paintings from their first day at nursery or your collection of beer trophy pint glasses from your student days some 20 years ago might create a home full of memories for you and your family, but what does it do for prospective buyers?

Some people have the ability to see past furnishings and fittings when viewing a home, but others struggle to see how they can turn your property into their home. To maximise your chances of converting viewings into an offer, de-cluttering is key.

De-cluttering does not have to mean foreverFor those of us who are sentimental, the very word ‘de-cluttering’ can bring horror at the thought of getting rid of possessions. However, de-cluttering to prepare for viewings and sale does not have to be a forever thing when you can safely leave your prized possessions in the trusted hands of a local storage company.

Not only can putting your belongings into storage help create a clearer, more appealing home for viewings, it can also make a big difference in your big move as you have already gone through and sorted your possessions for viewings which means less things left to pack for moving.

Store or go?Here are our top tips to help you decide what should go into storage whilst you sell and move and what should be sold, given to a charity shop or recycled.

If the answer to any of the following questions is yes, it is time to put items in storage until you move. If no, it is time to think about its new home:• Haveyouuseditthelast12months?• Isitinfullworkingorder/notbroken/missingparts?• Doesithaveirreplaceablesentimentalorfinancialvalue?• Doyouhavesomethingsimilarthatfulfilsthesamepurpose?

About QuickStore Established in 1989, QuickStore was one of the first self-storage centre operators in the UK and now has 4 storage centres in Devon and Cornwall with over 1,200 individual secure storage units.

QuickStore provides internal self-storage units of all sizes, external containerised storage and sells packaging including bubble wrap and boxes to help you pack ready for your sale and move.

All of their storage units are purpose-built and constructed from steel. Each unit is dry, secure and fully protected by CCTV, a comprehensive NACOSS-approved alarm system and a reporting fire alarm.

QuickStore pride themselves on their customer-first approach. They believe in a simple, honest and open relationship where they will not ask you for additional or “hidden” charges or a deposit and will repay any unused days at the end of your stay with them.

To find out more about how QuickStore can help you de-clutter ready for your sale, visit www.quickstore.co.uk or call 0800 907 907 9

Your prized possessions; another person’s clutter?



New Homes

Park Street, Ivybridge –– From £165,950 ***LAST ONE REMAINING*** AVAILABLE TO VIEW NOW***EXCITING NEW BUILD DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEART OF IVYBRIDGE***HELP TO BUY SCHEME AVAILABLE***A cottage style two double bedroom property with two en-suites, allocated parking and rear courtyard garden.


maitlands.bizIvybridge –– 01752 895379

Wellington Square, South Brent –– Asking Price of £289,950A unique opportunity to purchase a three bedroom cottage with three en-suites and enclosed gardens. Additional benefits include lounge with wood-burning stove, fitted kitchen, conservatory and off-road parking. EPC Rating F

Greenfield Drive –– Guide Price £230,000This link detached three bedroom home, located close to the town centre sits on a good size plot and offers excellent potential to extend (subject to pp). A viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the location and beautifully kept gardens. EPC: EER D - EIR E

Totnes Road, Ermington –– Asking Price of £300,000A beautiful detached thatched cottage positioned on the fringes of the sought after village of Ermington. Offered for sale with no onward chain, the property enjoys off-road parking and sizable gardens. EPC Rating E

Trehill Road, Ivybridge –– Asking Price of £264,950A well-presented extended detached two bedroom bungalow in a most sought after central Ivybridge address with garage and driveway. EPC: EER D - EIR D

Blachford Road, Ivybridge –– Asking Price of £239,950Unique three double bedroom detached residence in a tucked away position. Situated within close walking distance of the town, the property offers a garage, parking and rear courtyard garden. Other benefits include lounge, open plan kitchen/diner, master en-suite and family bathroom. EPC Rating C

Cantrell Stables, Bittaford –– Guide Price of £200,000A rare opportunity to acquire approx 9.7 acres of prime equestrian land on the edge of the southern slope of Dartmoor National Park. Mains electric, water supply, stable yard, eight stables, three pony stables, tack and feed store, CCTV and glorious southerly views.



It has been quite a quarter for us at Maitlands. We were so proud and excited to travel to London in May this year for The ESTAS, the property industry’s equivalent to the Oscars. Clients vote for agents right across the UK based on 10 areas including their service, their websites, staff and value for money.

As much as we are perceived locally as a large business due to our profile, we often forget that we are just a small independent local company that believe passionately in what we do.

You can therefore imagine our surprise when two relatively new parts of the business won national awards with our new City office winning gold for the best office in the South West and our Lettings team picking up a bronze award for the best lettings office in the South West award.

However, the surprise was yet to come, and really put not only Maitlands on the map but our whole area, as we won the bronze award for the best small chain of estate agents from across the whole of the UK.

We are working hard to try and improve our industry locally and make our clients’ moving experience a far better experience than it has been in the past. This recognition gives us the motivation to continue that improvement and we thank the hundreds of clients that voted for us.

An award-winning service, as voted by the people that matter most – you!

Our customers are paramount to everything we do and it is a terrific achievement to be recognised for our efforts. Winning this award helps clients feel reassured that they are working with an agent that really does know what they are talking about.



New Homes Haye Road, Elburton –– Asking Price of £475,000 An exciting opportunity to purchase a brand new four bedroom executive detached property. Available off plan enabling the successful purchaser to be involved with choosing the kitchens and bathrooms. Designed to a high standard, this offers a really unique opportunity for any purchaser to purchase one of two exclusive homes.


maitlands.bizPlympton –– 01752 344322

Dudley Road, Plympton –– Asking Price of £179,950Conservatory and southerly facing rear garden. This semi-detached house is situated in a popular road in Plympton. The accommodation comprises: lounge/diner, modern kitchen, conservatory, three bedrooms (two doubles and one single) and a bathroom. The property has a shared driveway, garage and southerly facing rear garden. EPC Rating C

Upper Ridings, Plympton –– Asking Price of £307,000Five-bedroom detached house in Newnham Downs, Plympton. Accommodation comprises; lounge, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, conservatory, five bedrooms and a study area. Outside, there is parking, garage and level rear garden. EPC Rating D

Greenwood Park Close, Plympton –– Asking Price of £250,000A modern, four-bedroom detached house within Plympton, with garage and driveway parking. Hallway, downstairs WC, kitchen, dining area, lounge, en-suite shower room and family bathroom. Other benefits include: Gas central heating, UPVC double glazing.EPC Rating D

Wheatridge, Plympton –– Asking Price of £290,000This four-bedroom detached house is situated in a popular cul-de-sac in Woodford. The property is situated on a good size plot and is within walking distance to good schools. EPC Rating C

Westmoor Close, Plympton –– Asking Price of £220,000A three bedroom detached house situated in Upper Chaddlewood in Plympton. The accommodation comprises: lounge, kitchen/diner, downstairs cloakroom, three bedrooms (two doubles and one single) master ensuite and family bathroom. There is a garage and parking for several cars and a level rear garden. EPC Rating D

Raleigh Court, Plympton –– Asking Price of £195,000This semi-detached house is situated in a tucked away position in a cul-de-sac in Upper Chaddlewood. The property is well presented and is a perfect family home. EPC Rating C



Factors to consider when choosing the right agent for your move Is it all about fees for you? What about proximity to your current home? Do awards make a difference? Here are a few suggestions of things to consider when making your agent choice:

Results - at the end of the day, you have an end goal in mind - choose an agent that has the proven results to achieve your goal Experience - the world of moving home is an ever-evolving industry. With peaks and troughs in the market, choose an agent that has a team with extensive experience of dealing with all moving situations Qualifications - it goes without saying to look for an agent who has recognised qualifications to give you added confidence that you are receiving the best, trusted advice for your move Convenience - in this day and age convenience is everything; choose an agent that is open in the evenings and at weekends so they are there to help with your move when people have the time to make viewings

How do you choose the best agent for your move?When it comes to moving home, your choice of agent can make a significant difference to your moving outcome. With so much at stake, choosing the right agent is as important as choosing the right home. So, when it comes to beginning your hunt for an agent to partner you through your move, what do you look for?

Local knowledge - whether you are new to an area or have lived there for most of your life, strong local knowledge in terms of the property market and local facilities is invaluable whether you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent and can make a tremendous difference to your moving process.

Trust in independent reviews In all parts of life we rely on the experiences of others to help lead our decision making process. When it comes to booking a holiday, how often do you make a visit to TripAdvisor a must-do part of the booking process? However, when it comes to moving house, how often do you look to find out more about the experience of others? Who would they choose? Who would they avoid? Who exceeded all expectations?

The TripAdvisor of the property industry Whilst TripAdvisor has become an established name in the holiday world, the property industry has its own version – the independent review site AllAgents.co.uk. Collating reviews of people across the country, All Agents provides an insight into what you can expect from your agent.

Established in 2006 by a then-frustrated web developer who was experiencing problems with his property agent, the site has grown to become one of the leading property review sites in the country.

Alongside providing an outlet for customer reviews of their agent experience, the site also encourages agents to join their ‘transparent agent’ scheme. As a member of the scheme, agents must promote all reviews and not just cherry-pick the best so you can be assured that you are seeing the true picture and not just what we want you to see.

We are strong advocates of being honest and transparent in all areas of our business, hence why we always encourage our clients to leave a review – whether positive or negative – of their experience on AllAgents.co.uk. We are also proud to say that we are rated within the top 30 agents out of over 12,000 across the country.

Bookmark AllAgents.co.uk for your next moveSo next time you are looking for an agent to help with your move, make sure you pay a visit to the trusted, independent review website AllAgents.co.uk before you make your decision; it could make all the difference to your moving outcome.

Julie Haimes, Customer Services



maitlands.bizSaltash –– 01752 845396


New Homes

Adit Lane, South Pill, Saltash –– Guide Price £300,000 Newly built detached house positioned close to the towns amenities. Approximately 1250 sq ft, 23’ sitting room, 23’ kitchen/dining room, study/bed four, utility, three bedrooms. The property is nearing completion but available to view seven days a week! EPC: EER B - EIR B (PREDICTED).

Ashton Mews, Saltash –– OIEO £185,000A well-presented three double bedroom townhouse with a dual-width driveway providing ample parking and garage. This spacious property offers accommodation to include entrance hall, sitting/dining room, kitchen, downstairs cloakroom, three good size bedrooms, master with en-suite shower and walk-in dressing room and family bathroom. Additional benefits are the front and enclosed rear garden. EPC: EER C - EIR C

Snell Drive, Latchbrook –– Offers in excess of £140,000Well presented two bedroom property with secluded gardens and views! ** Situated in the sought after Latchbrook Development, this would make an ideal First Time Buy or Investment Property. An early viewing is advisable! EPC: EER D - EIR E

Edwards Crescent, Latchbrook –– Guide Price of £265,000Delightful four-bedroom link detached family home situated in the popular Latchbrook development. Modern kitchen/diner, good size lounge with conservatory, en-suite shower room, downstairs cloakroom, driveway, garage and child friendly gardens. An internal viewing is highly recommended. EPC: EER D - EIR D

Pillaton –– Guide Price of £175,000Beautiful two bed semi-detached cottage in a sought-after village location. Great condition with open plan lounge/kitchen/diner, bathroom and courtyard. No chain. EPC Rating F

West Coombe Park, Ashton –– Guide Price of £525,000Detached residence enjoying views over the Tamar Valley. This beautiful family home has many salient features to include: four/five bedrooms, three bathrooms, double garage, workshop, shed, gardens and paddock which sit on approximately 1.32 acres with a further 9 acres of further land available under separate negotiation. The house is very adaptable and can either be enjoyed as a good size family home or alternatively would suit families looking for a ground floor annexe. EPC: EER D - EIR D

Pounds Park, Saltash –– Sale Agreed of £375,000Positioned close to the waterfront, this spacious detached property has many salient features to include lounge and conservatory with river views, good size modern kitchen/diner, four bedrooms with master en-suite, family bathroom and two cellar areas. Externally there is ample off-road parking, front and rear gardens. EPC: EER D - EIR D



When it comes to being a landlord, maximising your occupancy time is paramount to achieving your desired return on your investment. With ongoing changes in the mortgage market, there remains a strong demand from tenants looking for a new home to rent. It is our job to find those tenants and match them with our landlords’ properties.

Wherever in the landlord process you need a bit of extra support, we are here to help.

Situation 1: You are a seasoned landlord and are happy with the vetting process and day-to-day management, but need help in attracting the prospective tenantsThis is a common problem that landlords face. In a competitive marketplace, you need to make sure that your property stands apart from others similarly priced homes in your area. From the property descriptions and photographs, to where it is advertised, it all plays an important role.

With a growing trend of people beginning their property search online before contacting their local agents, ensuring your home is seen on the key property portals is paramount to success. To help landlords that need support in the marketing arena, we now offer an advertising-only package to market your properties on our network of national property websites including Zoopla and Rightmove, plus our own dedicated website - Maitlands.biz.

Situation 2: You are looking for peace of mind that all of your legal requirements are met and you have found the most suitable tenants who will pay the rent in full and on timeThe amount of paperwork needed for each new tenant can be a daunting prospect for the most experienced of landlords. You could find the day-to-day management of a property easy, but not the task of finding and securing a new tenant. The secret to successful lettings is ensuring that everything is wrapped up in professional contracts and your prospective tenants’ references are carefully vetted.

Our Let Only package takes care of the initial tenancy process, from advertising your property through to preparing a detailed Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement, referencing and collecting the first month’s rent and deposit. We will take care of everything needed for a new tenant to move in, so you can be rest assured that all of the legal requirements are taken care of. We will then hand over the day-to-day running to you.

Situation 3: You need a team you can trust to manage your investment in its entiretyWhether this is your first investment or you have a portfolio of rental properties, being a landlord is not easy and can take up a lot of time, from finding tenants to collecting rent and dealing with maintenance problems.

The good news is that you do not need to worry about doing it all – we have invested heavily in a team that can take care of every part of your landlord duties, from marketing to ongoing management and maintenance. We do what we do best, leaving you to continue with your day job.

Our award-winning Lettings teamWhen you choose Maitlands Lettings to let your property you can be rest assured that your investment is in the best possible hands. Earlier this year our Lettings team took the bronze award in the Best Lettings Branch in the South West category at this year’s national ESTAS - the property world’s equivalent of the Oscars.

So, to find out more about how we could help you find the right tenants for your property and for more detail on each of our landlord packages, contact your local Maitlands Lettings team today.

Offering a helping hand to turn your ‘To Let’ property into ‘Let Agreed’

We moved our property from another managing agent due to poor service and the poor quality of tenants placed. From the outset they have been helpful, informative and understanding. Nothing is too much trouble and everything is dealt with promptly and in a friendly manner. We would certainly recommend them to any potential landlords.

Claire Burt, Lettings Manager



maitlands.bizIvybridge / Plymouth / Plympton / Saltash –– 01752 661111


New to the market

Merafield Road, Plympton –– £825pcmWELL PRESENTED THREE BEDROOM HOUSE TO LET IN PLYMPTON - Accommodation comprises of porch area, downstairs WC lounge/diner, kitchen and utility. Upstairs there are three bedrooms, two doubles, a single and the family bathroom. Externally there is a good size garden with stone built storage shed/outbuilding and off road parking for one car. The property is available early September, unfurnished, pets, smokers and DHSS will not be considered. EPC Rating E

Piper Street, Derriford –– £700pcmSpacious first floor apartment located in the Derriford area of Plymouth, comprising a modern open planned living room/kitchen, two double bedrooms, bathroom and ensuite, communal garden and one allocated parking space. Pets, smokers or DHSS will not be accepted. EPC Rating B

Victoria Road –– £850pcmGood size accommodation comprises, lounge, dining area, kitchen, downstairs shower room and a lean to sun room. Upstairs there are three double bedrooms, a single room and the family bathroom. The property offers an enclosed rear garden and has a garage with shared driveway to the side. Available to rent from end of June. Pets, smokers and DHSS will not be accepted. EPC Rating D

Harebell Close –– £725pcmA modern, four-bedroom detached house within Plympton, with garage and driveway parking, hallway, downstairs WC, kitchen, dining area, lounge, en-suite shower room and family bathroom. Other benefits include: Gas central heating, UPVC double glazing.EPC Rating D

Higher Broadaford, Ugborough –– £900pcmBILLS INCLUDED EXCEPT OIL...A rare opportunity to rent this delightful two bedroom barn conversion with views over nearby countryside. Open plan kitchen lounge diner, two bedrooms, a shower room, good size rear courtyard and off road parking. Would suit a professional couple. Available for a six month let, fully furnished. No Smokers, Pets or DHSS. EPC Rating F

Higher Broadaford Barn, Higher Broadaford –– £900pcmBILLS INCLUDED EXCEPT OIL. A rare opportunity to rent this delightful two bedroom barn conversion with views over nearby countryside. Comprising of open plan kitchen/lounge/diner, two bedrooms and a shower room. Externally there is a good size rear courtyard and off road parking. Would suit a professional couple. Available 20th September for a six month let, fully furnished. No smokers, pets or DHSS. EPC Rating F

Misterton Close, Elburton –– £1,100pcmDelightful detached family home situated in a cul-de-sac within Plymstock. Comprising of entrance hallway, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility area, downstairs cloakroom, three bedrooms, master boasts fitted furniture and en-suite shower room, family bathroom and a walk in wardrobe. Off road driveway parking, garage, garden to front and a well maintained enclosed rear garden with summer house. Not suitable for pets, smokers or DHSS. EPC Rating C



In the last edition of our Maitlands paper you would have read all about the values of the simple word of ‘home’. With a myriad of meanings for each of us, we are committed to doing more than helping you to buy, sell, let or rent a home – we want to help you care for your home too.

With this in mind, earlier this year we launched a brand new team within the business – Maitlands Property Care - with the very goal of helping you care for your home, whether that is odd jobs to improve your living environment or to give it a finishing spruce to present it in its best light ready for sale.

Introducing Maitlands Property Care Team From painting and general maintenance, to DIY and gardening, the Maitlands Property Care team can do it all to help you care for your home. Armed with the tools and expertise to make a difference, our Property Care team can be hired to help in whatever way your home needs on an hourly basis. Our Property Care team can take care of a range of work including:

• Painting and decorating• Carpentry - basic repairs• Tiling - small jobs• Grouting and sealant• Fencing• Garden maintenance - lawns, decking repairs, hedge trimming, patios• Change locks• Window maintenance• Clear and fix guttering and down pipes• Doors and handles - exc. hanging• Shelving• Change light bulbs• Replace tap washers

Available to all customers, both past and present, our team can be called upon in a range of situations. Whether you are thinking of moving and want some extra help to finish those odd jobs around the house that you never get around to or you would like some extra help transforming your new house into your home, we can make it happen.

Property Care as standard For our First Homes clients, the services of our Property Care team is included as standard as part of our First Homes all-inclusive moving packages. With the services of our team for three hours included in your moving fee, you will be surprised by what a difference it can make.

Our Property Care team also help to add extra peace of mind for our landlord clients. The team are on hand to do any day-to-day decorating and improvements at our landlords’ properties to improve the home for its current tenants or to give it a new lease of life ready for the search for new tenants.

Do not underestimate the importance of first impressionsWhen it comes to selling or letting a property, first impressions are hugely important. What first impression does your home give when a prospective buyer or tenant arrives at your home?

Inside your home may be immaculate but what about outside and the all-important curb appeal? Is your garden neat and tidy, with a well-cut lawn and clear driveway? Are your fences or front door in need of a fresh lick of paint? Whatever your needs, our team can make the difference.

When you see something day-in and day-out, it can often be difficult to notice some of the areas that are in need of some TLC. If you are looking to sell or let your property, our skilled sales and lettings professionals can also point out any areas which could benefit from a little work to help make a difference to your property.

To find out more about the Maitlands Property Care team, simply call us today on 01752 661111.

Helping you with more than moving home –– we care for your home too!

I have been very impressed with the professionalism and attention to detail right from the very beginning. Every single member of Maitlands that I have dealt with has been excellent. I have highlighted Carla and Paul because those were the two that I had most dealings with. Both were /are superb.



Maker, Cornwall Guide Price of £1,000,000Set in a stunning rural location close to the sea, this period Grade ll listed hotel could easily convert back to a beautiful family home. With period features throughout, seven bedrooms, a self-contained two bedroom annexe and a five-year-old detached two bedroom bungalow. This property offers opportunities throughout. Holding a wedding licence, the house and four acres of well-designed gardens offer romantic photo locations to newlyweds and their families. Set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this property offers scope to develop in many areas, both for business, a lifestyle change or as a great family home. EPC: Exempt.

Stoke Road, Noss MayoOffers in Excess of £595,000 Enjoying panoramic views over the Yealm Estuary and Newton Ferrers lies this detached split-level residence. Arranged over three floors, this fabulous property must be viewed internally to be fully appreciated and would suit any buyer looking for low maintenance living whilst enjoying possibly one of the best locations in the South Hams. EPC Rating: C

Swainstone Manor, Swainstone Asking Price of £425,000A truly stunning four bedroom detached barn conversion set in a rural location. Enjoying an abundance of character with delightful gardens and views, this property is one of four dwellings and originally formed part of Swainstone Manor. This superb property would be suitable as a holiday let or as a home for those seeking an idyllic rural lifestyle, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. EPC Rating: F

Wembury Road, WemburyGuide Price of £2,000,000A rare opportunity to purchase a substantial Grade II listed Georgian country residence with an established caravan storage business. In a beautiful rural location with charming views over parkland, woodland and neighbouring countryside, this unique home offers any discerning buyer the opportunity to live close to the South Devon coast, whilst having the opportunity to live and work in a convenient location close to the city of Plymouth. EPC Rating: F



Cleaning - love it or hate it, we all have to do it. It is estimated that we spend over 200 hours each year cleaning our homes. Multiply that over a lifetime and that is a pretty staggering figure.

Never is a clean home more important than when you are trying to sell or let. It is all too easy to concentrate on the big areas to present your home for sale like giving it a lick of paint or de-cluttering your possessions, but what about the basics of making sure your windows are gleaming and the dreaded oven is sparkling? What impression does it give prospective buyers if they can’t see through the dirt on your windows or they’re greeted by a tide mark in your bath?

Here, Richard Smith – Wright Clean Director, shares his top tips on how to achieve some quick cleaning wins:

Instant shine for your bathroom - mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray onto clean cloths and start working on those slimy marks on your bath, showers and sinks.

Stained pots and pans - fill with water and bring to the boil on the hob to help lift the stains. It is a quick way to cut some time off the hours we spend cleaning each year!

Say goodbye to greasy stains - spilt grease doesn’t have to be the end of the world. Sprinkle some talcum powder over the stain until it is absorbed, then wipe away with a clean, dry cloth.

Multitask - next time you are blow-drying your hair, turn it down and quickly blow over lamp shades; a quick way to keep the dust at bay.

Mirror, mirror on the wall - relatively clean mirrors can be freshened up with a little warm water applied to a mircrofibre cloth and rubbed dry in circular motions to avoid smearing. If it needs an extra kick, dilute washing-up liquid in warm water, then use a sponge to wipe over the mirror before buffing with a clean microfibre cloth.

When time is precious, leave it to the prosIf you are one of those people who loves to clean or has a strict routine of doing it each day, preparing for a big final clean for moving should be relatively easy. However, with so much to think about and packing to do, why not leave the cleaning to a professional so you can focus on the more pressing matters of your move?

Wright Clean Ltd has been providing a professional cleaning service to businesses and domestic cleaning customers for over 10 years. Covering Plymouth, Tavistock, Torbay and Exeter, Wright Clean are a dedicated and friendly team who strive to provide the best possible cleaning service at an affordable price. The team’s domestic cleaning services cover carpets, ovens, upholstery, windows, patios, gutters, driveways and even a full house clean.

So whether you are looking for a full clean ready for your move, or a regular cleaning service so you can reclaim some of those 200 hours spent cleaning each year, contact Wright Clean today by visiting www.wrightclean.co.uk.

Share your cleaning tips with us!What’s your top cleaning tip? We would love to hear them! Share them with us at fb.com/MaitlandsSalesandLettings or on Twitter at @maitlands94

The dreaded ‘C’ word – cleaning!



Property management – let us do what we do best, whilst you focus on your day job

Sound advice, in-depth expertise and decades of property management experience – they are all key values to look for when you choose an agent to manage your most valuable asset – your commercial property portfolio. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide a truly flexible service to meet your specific needs and budgetary requirements. Working on your behalf, our trusted team will manage your portfolio to maximise income returns and capital growth.

What to expect from our commercial property management solution:•Accounts-wewillmaintainseparateclients’ accounts and ledgers, prepare and submit statements and accounts with balances and supporting invoices quarterly. •Inspections-ourtrustedteamwillconductperiodic inspections to ensure that all is well within your premises and will report back with any problems or potential areas of concern for the future.

•Tenantliaison-actingasthemainpointofcontact with your tenants, we will be the interface for routine enquiries from clients and tenants. We can also consider applications for alterations, assignment, sub-lettings and change of use.•Rentmanagement-whenrequired,wecaninstruct solicitors or certified bailiffs to recover unpaid rent and other charges.

For those clients with multiple occupancy properties, in addition to the services outlined above, we can also provide the following services:•Servicechargeandpaymentmanagement-wewill submit service charge demands, collect payments, prepare annual reconciliation and circulate service charge accounts as appropriate. Where necessary, we can also produce budgets for future expenditure and reserves, administer funds and provide information to auditors.•Suppliermanagement-ourteamwillengageand pay suppliers, contractors, staff and others providing services to your properties.•Maintenancemanagement-wecanarrange and supervise any maintenance contracts for your properties, from cleaning to security and landscaping. We can also take care of day-to-day repairs to fixtures and fittings, and handle emergency repairs when required.

To find out more about how our trusted Commercial Property team can take the stress out of managing your property portfolio, contact us today on 01752 661234.


19

Kingswood Court, South Brent

Kingswood Court business park comprises of 11 industrial units of various sizes, TO LET. Situated in the stunning surroundings of the South West, Kingswood Court is not only practical but an idyllic place to work. Based within easy access of the A38 Devon Expressway in South Brent, Devon, Kingswood Court is in a prominent location

Kingsleat Industrial Estate, Plymouth

A prominent trade counter/warehouse unit with secure yard on the junction of Valley Road and Cot Hill Road, Plympton. The premises are available by way of an assignment of an existing lease that expires in 2016. Alternatively a new lease may be considered, subject to lease terms and covenant strength.

Molesworth Road, Plymouth –– OIRO £225,000

The property is set within one of Plymouth’s most architecturally fascinating residential areas. The facilities of Millbridge with its village shops and amenities are very popular with local residents and niche operators. Stoke Village is about half a mile away and the city centre is easily reached within one mile.


maitlands.bizIvybridge / Plymouth / Plympton / Saltash –– 01752 661 234

Mark Slade, Commercial Director



Maitlands Land and New HomesAs we launch our Land and New Homes brand to the region, we have really started to see major growth in this area, with schemes already live within the city from our Millbay Road branch at Ocean Crescent and our involvement in numerous projects from the South Hams to Lostwithiel.

We see this investment as a real positive sign for our local market, not only creating exciting projects but securing employment and increasing property transactions right across our area. We look forward to growing this exciting part of our business and continue to try and put ourselves right at the heart of the local market.

Introducing Maitlands Land and New HomesWith over 40 years’ expert industry experience, the Maitlands Land and New Homes team provide a complete bespoke service to developers and land owners. Working in partnership with our clients, we make your strategic vision and development plans a reality.

We provide an integrated land and planning service, from identifying viable land opportunities and planning procedures, through to providing a sales service supported by the Maitlands group.

Our expert local knowledge is invaluable to our clients’ development projects, allowing us to identify the best opportunities and secure qualified prospective purchasers.

Land Services The team’s expertise and established network allows us to match viable land opportunities with individuals and national companies looking for a new opportunity.

Our experience allows us to quickly and effectively assess the viability and feasibility of a site. Utilising our network of trusted architects, planning consultants and land managers, we can provide a full development appraisal and manage your project from inception to completion.

For those looking to dispose of land, we have an established network of prospective purchasers looking for a new opportunity. Dependent upon your requirements, we can approach a carefully selected group of prospective buyers on your behalf or, alternatively, we can opt for a formal or informal tender scenario dependent on the land in question and your aspirations. Once we have helped to dispose of your land we can work with you to find your next opportunity.

New HomesWe work tirelessly to find prospective buyers for your development. Utilising the services of our in-house marketing department, we create bespoke marketing campaigns to successfully promote your development to your target audience. From sales brochures to prominent window displays, our clients also benefit from a comprehensive digital marketing campaign through our network of leading national property portal websites.

Whether your development is manned or unmanned, our team can identify prospective purchasers and convert into qualified leads, all of which can be reported through our regular reporting processes.

To find out more about how Maitlands Land and New Homes can help with your development, contact the team today.

Maitlands Land and New Homes

Three things have stood out for me in dealing with Maitlands. Firstly, they genuinely work as an integrated team different to most agencies, secondly, they work very quickly and efficiently in turning around work and most importantly they achieve actual sales results demonstrating good energy and determination around the closing process. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to other property vendors.



WHILST SOME AGENTS BOAST ABOUT HOW SUCCESSFUL THEY MIGHT BE, AT MAITLANDS WE ALWAYS FOCUS ON GETTING SUCCESS FOR OUR CLIENTS.

91%91% of all properties we have brought to the market for sale this year have now sale agreed.

99%On average, we have achieved 99% of ask-ing price, for our sell-ers so far in 2014.

34 professionally trained customer-facing staff covering the whole area, looking after our customers even after they have moved.

29th 29th best-rated agent in the whole of the country, out of 12622 estate agencies. As voted by our customer feedback on the “Trip Advisor” of Estate Agents. www.allagents.co.uk.

60 free Maitlands Property Care hours for our sellers, to help get their property ready to market.

70% of all properties we have agreed sales on, this year, we have already completed and our sellers moved.

More agreed sales for our customers in 2014 than any type of estate agent, in the areas we operate. PL1 - PL6(inc), PL7, PL12 and PL21.

We have already conducted over 6000 viewings in 2014; that’s an average of 14 viewings on each

property we have marketed.

We sell houses, not promises.” What we offer is unique and is designed to get success for our clients.

When you choose an agent to sell your biggest asset, make sure it is the right one, not just the cheapest. You may be sacrificing £1000s in equity if your desired result is not achieved. The Maitlands’ award-winning service is exceptional

value: call us today to see how we can help you achieve the best possible price for your home.

PLYMOUTH 01752 661000 PLYMPTON 01752 344322 IVYBRIDGE 01752 895379 SALTASH 01752 845396

maitlands.biz

70%4 who know and specialise in the towns that we operate in. 4

Over 70 million pounds worth of property sale agreed, for our clients, so far in 2014.

*All information taken from our internal system data between 1/1/14 - 24/7/14 and market views powered by Zoopla between 1/4/14- 24/7/14 and allagents.co.uk data checked 24/7/14

If you are looking to sell,

here are some facts you may want to

know...



Maitlands in the CommunityCharlie Green – Corporate Social Responsibility ManagerThere is rarely a dull day at Maitlands and this year has been no exception. With branches in the hearts of the towns and cities where we work, we have fully embraced the community spirit and have thrown ourselves in at the deep end to support a whole host of local schools and charities.I am also delighted to now be the South West’s Regional Ambassador for Agents Giving – the industry’s charity which looks to support agents’ charity activities and the surrounding communities.

Charity Bike Ride for Children’s Hospice South WestEarlier this summer three members of our team (and my husband) set off on a mammoth 210 mile charity cycle ride – Ride for Precious Lives - to help raise money for the fantastic Children’s Hospice South West. The charity do such an amazing job and really make a difference to those that need it, so when the opportunity arose to help them raise money to continue their efforts, we jumped at the chance.

Alongside my husband, I was joined by our Managing Director, Andy Blacklock and City Sales Manager, Darren Desmond, as we visited three of the charity’s hospices, from Little Harbour in St Austell, to Little Bridge House near Barnstaple and Charlton Farm near Bristol.

We set out to raise £2,000 for the charity and were overwhelmed with the level of support we received when we broke our target and raised over £3,700. On behalf of the whole team, a big thank you to everyone who sponsored us.

Jail and Bail FundraiserEarlier this year I spent a day in the cells as part of the city’s Jail and Bail Fundraiser. Joined by people from Parkhurst Hill, Home and Student Link, Mansbridge and Balment, Town and Country, Focused Vision and Haart, we were ‘arrested’ by off-duty police officers, loaded onto a bus, fingerprinted and placed in cells at Devonport Guildhall.

After being ‘arrested’ we were asked to post £500 bail to be released and off we set to raise as much money as possible in aid of the chosen charity, Batten Disease Family Association.

Batten Disease is the common name for a group of diseases called the Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCLs). These refer to several different genetic life-limiting neurodegenerative diseases that share similar features and occur in children and adults worldwide. In total we were able to raise a fantastic £4,500.

Other charity efforts:• NSPCC–GoGreen: Maitlands supported the NSPCC’s Go Green Day by donning something green and baking some delicious cakes to sell, raising a total of £70 for the charity. • Sports Relief: This year we decided to donate £1 to Sports Relief for every like we received on our winning photo on Facebook.• Plymouth 10k: In November, ten members of the Maitlands team will set off to run a 10k race.

For all of the latest news and charity efforts from the team, visit our website at www.maitlands.biz

Find out what your property is worth today

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Whether you are considering moving in the coming year or would simply like to know what your property is currently worth and the implications for

your financial circumstances, contact your local Maitlands branch today.

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To book your free, no-obligation valuation today, simply call us on 0808 1789866 or complete the form below and hand it in to your local Maitlands team.

To receive your free, no-obligation property valuation from Maitlands, simply complete this voucher and return it to your nearest branch. Alternatively, call your local Maitlands team and quote reference number MFVO14.

Name:

Address:

Contact Number:

Email Address:

T&Cs: One free valuation on presentation of this voucher to your local branch or when calling and quoting the code MFVO14. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not valid for valuations for the purpose of probate. Offer expires 31st December 2014.

Chat with us online at maitlands.biz or call us on 0808 1789866

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