Tuesday 20 December 2016

How to improve your credit score

As part of our How to Buy series, this blog from the Mortgage Bureau looks at your credit score and what you can do to improve it when buying a new home.

When applying for a mortgage, lenders use your credit score to analyse the risk and determine how likely you are to repay the amount you borrow, including interest.

It is calculated using answers from your mortgage application (points are allocated to certain questions throughout) and your payment history for existing loans, credit cards or hire purchases. If you pay off any other financial commitments in full and on time you’re more likely to have a higher credit score, than if you miss or are late with your payments as you are demonstrating a responsible attitude towards debt to a lender.

You can check your credit score for free with Experian. Just remember, all lenders have different criteria and set their credit score pass rate accordingly, so a high credit score from Experian does not automatically mean a high score with a lender. Particularly given your deposit will also affect your credit score with a lender, as generally the greater the deposit the lower the score you need to pass.

Here’s five top tips to improve your credit score and help get the most suitable mortgage for you:

1.    Make sure all your credit information is correct, as a wrong address can change the way your payment history is reflected to a lender.

2.    If there is anything that is incorrect, you can request a Notice of Correction as long as you can provide the necessary evidence.

3.    Look at the credit score of anyone you share a linked account with and make sure you aren’t financially associated to anyone with poor credit.

4.    Make sure you’re registered on the electoral roll at your current address, you can register to vote online here.

5.    Avoid too many searches on your credit file, especially with comparison websites as they search individually with service providers which can lead to multiple ‘footprints’ and impact your score for up to three months. Instead, let your Financial Adviser do the searching for you!

If you want to know more, speak to a member of our Sales Team in the Sales and Marketing Suite at your local development and they’ll be happy to help by putting you in touch with one of our Independent Financial Advisors. 

Thursday 1 December 2016

10 reasons to buy new

Compared to an older, second-hand home, buying new can offer a number of advantages that you might not have thought about before…

1.    It’s brand new! So you’ll be the first person to call it home.

2.    A new build is essentially a blank canvas, ready for you to make it your own.

3.    Everything is new, from the kitchen to the bathroom, so you won’t have the added cost of renovating when you move in.

4.    Depending on when you buy, you may be able to select some of the fixtures and fittings, and start to put your personal stamp on the place before you move in.

5.    New homes are built to the latest environmental standards, making them more energy efficient and ultimately cheaper to run; saving you money in the long run.

6.    They’re also safer and more secure, with smoke detectors and burglar alarms generally fitted as standard.

7.    Using Help to Buy, you can secure a new home with a deposit of just 5% and a 75% mortgage, the government will provide an equity loan of up to 20% to cover the remaining cost (which is then interest free for the first five years).

8.    If you have a property to sell, you may be able to use Part Exchange or Assisted Move to make the sales process easier (and less stressful).

9.    Second hand homes can often come with costly repairs, but with a new home there won’t be any surprises when you move in.

10.  Your new-build home will typically be covered by the NHBC Buildmark warranty which covers any major defects to the structure of your home for up to ten years after completion. 

If you buy with St. Modwen Homes you’ll also benefit from a two year guarantee which goes above and beyond Buildmark, guaranteeing items supplied as part of your new home, including your guttering and alarm system for the first year. The heating, plumbing and electrical systems in your new home are also covered for up to two years after completion by the St. Modwen Homes' warranty.

When it comes to design, St. Modwen Homes’ award-winning philosophy of ‘light and height’ means each property is built with higher than average ceilings and large windows throughout, to create bright, open spaces, offering both style and practicality.

If you want to know more, visit www.stmodwenhomes.co.uk or follow the housebuilder on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest


Thursday 24 November 2016

Top tips for being mortgage ready

As part of our How to Buy series, this blog looks at how to prepare yourself (and your finances) for buying a new home. Whilst nothing is guaranteed, here’s a few tips from the Mortgage Bureau to being mortgage ready…

1.    Sit down and look at your finances. What’s a necessity and what’s a luxury? Work out your budget based on your savings and how much you can afford to spend on a mortgage each month. Use the Mortgage Bureau calculator as a guide on how much you can borrow and what your monthly payments might be. 

2.    Check your credit score with Experian. A good credit score will increase your chance of getting a mortgage, and at a better rate, so it’s worth checking before you start the process of applying for a mortgage. Although checking it too much can also have an impact.

3.    Don’t apply for new credit, or use Pay Day loans or withdraw cash on your credit card if you’re preparing to buy a new home, these will all affect your credit score and could limit the amount you can borrow.

4.    Other financial commitments, such as existing loans and credit cards, can affect the amount you can borrow and the interest rates you’ll pay, so where possible pay off any debts in full and for those remaining remember to make your monthly repayments on time.

5.    Simple things, like making sure you’re registered on the electoral roll and updating your address can improve your credit score with minimum effort required. Register to vote online here.

6.    Make the most of government schemes and boost your savings by 25% with a Help to Buy ISA, and for every £200 you save, you can receive a government bonus of £50, up to a maximum of £3,000 (find out more about the Help to Buy ISA here).

7.    Do your homework and decide which kind of mortgage you want. To help you decide, Mortgage Bureau will waive their fee when you buy with St. Modwen Homes so you can use our expertise to find the best deal. They will even submit your mortgage application, liaise with your lender and conveyancer and be able to reassure you throughout the process, right up to completion.

8.    Get your paperwork in order and make sure all of your addresses match the proof of address given. You’ll also need your last P60 as well as up to a years’ worth of pay slips and bank statements to verify your income and expenditure.

9.    Talk to a Mortgage Broker that specialises in new build homes as well as your bank. The organisation you do your day-to-day banking with will only be able to provide information on their mortgages and whilst they may have a better overview of your spending habits, you might not fit their criteria and you could be missing out on getting a better deal elsewhere.

10.  Find the right home for you and arrange a mortgage in principle. Lenders won’t formally offer you a mortgage without a property in place, but if you’re still looking for the perfect home this will give you an idea of how much you can borrow. Proof of your deposit and a mortgage in principle can also be an advantage when you find the perfect home and want to reserve. 

Thursday 17 November 2016

Add a touch of magic to your carpet

Feature walls, statement light fittings and bold prints have all become pretty commonplace when decorating your new home but are you brave enough to make the carpet the real showpiece in your room? We caught up with Sam Simmonds at Killer 5 Interiors to discuss this emerging trend…

“For nearly two decades, a beige or oatmeal carpet has very much been the norm. You might have deviated to grey or even dark blue but I’m sure very few people have actually gone bold with their carpet choice. This could however, be set to change in 2017.

“Carpets offer new homeowners the chance to make a real statement in a room and with more and more options coming into the shops, it’s certainly a trend to be aware of.

“For the truly bold out there, opt for colourful prints that work brilliantly against more muted walls. I love this peacock design from Matthew Williamson, whilst this burgundy tartan pattern from Hugh Mackay Carpets would add warmth to any room. I also love this unusual butterfly design that is a result of Brinton’s teaming up with Timorous Beasties. Alternatively, make a statement without the colour with a regency pattern such as this black and silver Richmond carpet from SCS.

“Already visible in some of our Showhomes, stripes represent an easy way to get feature carpets into your new home and are proving particularly popular on stairs and hallways. Try the bright Audrey option from Barker and Stonehouse or the more subdued blue and gold option from John Lewis.

“Fans of grey will approve of this Capello Shell carpet which is part of the Alternative Flooring collaboration with Liberty Fabrics; representing the first time their iconic prints have been used in carpet. Or, if you want something a little (ok, maybe a lot) brighter, try the Summer Garden pattern; the bold floral print will certainly get people talking.

“A geometric style offers a modern approach to a patterned carpet; here’s a bold option in grey and white which has apparently been inspired by ice skating, or you could take a more conservative approach  with this Labyrinth design which would look fantastic teamed with a bright sofa. Personally, I love the geometric pattern in monochrome, just like this one from Alternative Flooring which is perfectly on trend.

 “For those of you that aren’t quite convinced, there’s a huge range of subtle patterns that might help change your mind. My advice would be to look at the Brinton’s Laura Ashley collection, in particular the Colloway pattern that would help bring luxury to a living room or the Ryedale design which looks beautifully feminine and soft in the duck egg colour; perfect for a relaxing bedroom.

“Making a statement with your carpet may seem like a bold move but it certainly offers homeowners another way to add colour, depth and personality to a room. If you’re considering it for your new home, start with a mood board and work from the floor upwards – it’s much easier to start with a bold carpet and then choose complementing wall colours and furnishings than it is to find a patterned carpet that suits an existing room. Good luck!”

Share photos of your favourite carpets with St. Modwen Homes on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest and on each of the development’s Facebook pages. To find out more about St. Modwen Homes visit www.stmodwenhomes.co.uk

Monday 31 October 2016

Trick or Treat?

Whether you are holding your first party in your new home or having a spooky family get together, Halloween is the perfect time of year to whip up a few treats in your kitchen.

Believed to have originated from Celtic harvest festivals and on the eve of All Hallows Day, Halloween has become ever more popular over recent years. To help you pull off a frighteningly good night, we’ve found some ghoulish recipes that will have everyone howling with delight…

Little ones will love these Frankenstein cupcakes or, if you’re looking for something a little less time consuming, try these giant black widow spiders. Alternatively, keep things healthy and make fruit more exciting with this monster fruit bowl.

Savoury treats can also get the Halloween treatment, with these delicious Sausage mummy dippers or Monster bites that will ensure your visitors don’t go hungry.

Don’t forget to give drinks a scary edge and try this Halloween witches brew complete with severed hand or, if you’re looking for something to keep the adults entertained try these Vampire cocktails, after all who says you can’t have a grown up dinner party up with a scary twist? Team your cocktails with Halloween-themed stuffed peppers, spooky spaghetti and even baked camembert.

If you don’t feel like making the food yourself head to Tesco or M&S and order pre-prepared party food, leaving you plenty of time to sort out the decorations and the spooky atmosphere!


Thursday 27 October 2016

Help to Buy - What you need to know

You might have seen the recent news that the government will not be extending the Help to Buy: Mortgage Guarantee Scheme from December this year, but what does that actually mean and more importantly what does it mean for you?

Firstly, don’t panic. While the Help to Buy: Mortgage Guarantee Scheme will no longer be available, you will still be able to use the Help to Buy: Equity Loan to purchase a new St. Modwen Homes’ property with a deposit of just 5%.

Available on new-build homes up to the value of £600,000, using the Help to Buy: Equity Loan you pay just 80% of the listed property price, which is made up of a 5% deposit and a 75% mortgage, with the remaining 20% covered by a government loan. For example, if you bought a new home priced at £200,000, you would need a deposit of £10,000, a £150,000 mortgage and a £40,000 loan from the government.

50% of our purchasers use this scheme, and it’s not just for first time buyers, those moving up the property ladder also qualify. You just won’t be able to rent out your new home or use Part Exchange to sell your old home and you must not own any property when you use Help to Buy: Equity Loan to buy your new home. 

So what is the Help to Buy: Mortgage Guarantee Scheme and why is it not being continued? Unlike the Help to Buy: Equity Loan, the Help to Buy: Mortgage Guarantee Scheme applies to both new-build and existing homes, with the government providing a guarantee to the lender to offer higher value mortgages of up to 95%. Since Help to Buy was introduced in January 2014, the housing market has become less reliant on the government guarantee and over 30 lenders now offer 90 to 95% mortgages outside of the scheme.

If you want to know more about Help to Buy: Equity Loan and see if you qualify, speak to a member of our Sales Team in the Sales and Marketing Suite at your local development and they’ll be happy to help by putting you in touch with one of our Independent Financial Advisors who will talk you through the process, help you find the right mortgage for you and even complete all the paperwork. 


Wednesday 12 October 2016

Cofton Grange – inside the Hexham Showhome

As we get ready to open the doors at Cofton Grange later this month, Samantha Simmonds, Creative Director at Killer5, gives us a sneak peek inside our brand new Hexham Showhome.

“Opening a new Showhome is always an exciting time, especially for us as interior designers, as we get to experiment with the latest styles and trends. At Cofton Grange, we’ve really embraced the industrial look, using reclaimed wood and rough metallic tones throughout. As a trend, industrial chic is here to stay and, thanks to the stripped-back and humble materials, it can give your new home a sophisticated edge without blowing the budget.

“In the Hexham, we’ve gone for functional style with a luxe edge, combining copper lighting and accessories with neutral and navy shades in the living room, charcoal grey and reclaimed wood in the kitchen and dining room, and silver and bronze upstairs in the second bedroom. Don’t be afraid to mix rich colours and plush furnishings with raw materials to make a statement.  



“Another popular trend this year, we’ve introduced typographical and geometric prints and wall art to bring the Showhome to life – including a striking feature wall in the kitchen and dining room. If you want to re-create the look, it’s a great way to showcase your personality, break up a blank wall and bring the theme of a room together.

“As it’s set across three floors, St. Modwen Homes’ Hexham design offers a flexible space for modern living so we used the bedroom on the ground floor as a study to demonstrate this. For those who work from home, having a separate study can be essential to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In the Showhome we’ve used caged copper lighting, exposed wired shelves and up-cycled parquet wooden furniture to continue the industrial theme and provide practical office storage solutions.



“In the bathrooms, we’ve gone for a fresh contemporary feel, using white marble and copper accessories that sit perfectly alongside the luxury fixtures and fittings St. Modwen Homes includes as standard.”

Take a look at our Pinterest, to see the Killer5 mood boards and, from Saturday 22nd October, you can see inside the Hexham Showhome for yourself – and don’t forget to share your pictures with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

The Marketing Suite at Cofton Grange is open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5.30pm inclusive of the weekends. For more information or to book an appointment, call 0844 243 4507 or email CoftonGrange@stmodwenhomes.co.uk.

Monday 10 October 2016

Top 10 tips for selling your home

When you find your dream home it can be very frustrating when you haven’t sold your home yet and the panic can easily set in. To help ease the stress we have put together our top ten tips to help you get your house off the market and completed so you are free to get your new keys…

1. Think about your target market. Does your home appeal to the main group you are aiming at? For instance do you have a box room that would work better as a home office for a professional couple? If so, rearrange it and make it stand out as a workable space for them.

2. The time of year can also be an important factor, spring (February to March) and autumn (September) are usually the key times to sell as it is traditionally when demand outweighs supply and so prices can be at their most flexible.

3. Spread the word that you are selling, word of mouth is a powerful tool that you should use to your advantage. Make sure you have a board up and let neighbours know as they may well be aware of someone waiting to move to that area.

4. Buyers will form an impression of your home within seconds of walking through the front door so make an effort to spruce the entrance of your home up. Paint the door, plant flowers or trim hedges to make your home have instant kerb appeal.

5. No one likes a cluttered home so you can’t expect people to be interested in purchasing your home if that’s all they can see. Have a good clear out and make your home look tidy and welcoming. Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathrooms as these are focal points for homebuyers.

6. Keeping colours in your home neutral can help homebuyers imagine themselves living there and even start to think about where they would put their own furniture. Paint colours are a very personal choice so if you have a bright bold colour some people may love it while it can also really put other people off. If necessary, repaint rooms, it will pay off in the end.

7. Smell is really important. Placing fragrant candles around your home or plug-ins can really create a relaxing and pleasant environment. If you have pets try to remove food bowls and beds while viewings are happening. You may not be able to smell them in your own home but others will and non-animal lovers may be put off.

8. The smallest of things can send the wrong impression to potential buyers so fix that leaking tap and remove the grubby sealant in the kitchen and bathroom, it can make a huge difference on sending a positive message to visitors.

9. If you have decided to show people round your home yourself, make sure you think about the route you will take to show the best rooms first or last to make a bigger impact. Be business-like and don’t bombard them with too much detail, stick to the facts homebuyers want to hear such as south facing garden, parking and local amenities. Only show viewers round once and then allow them to take another tour round on their own, but stay close by for any questions they may have.

10.  When you receive offers don’t rush into a decision, make sure you get all the details from the estate agents allowing you to make an informed decision, if you want to move quick a first time buyer might be a better choice over the highest bidder. Compromise is the key!

Friday 23 September 2016

Shades of grey


Described as the ‘new neutral’, grey is an interior trend that is here to stay, so we caught up with Samantha Simmonds from Killer 5 to find out how to embrace the subtle yet stylish shade in your home.

“Whether you like a clean and contemporary look, or bright and bold colours, grey is the perfect back drop for your new home. The cool colour palette can help create a relaxed, calm space and by layering different shades or adding textures and prints, it’s easy to add depth to a room.

“Before you find the perfect shade of grey you’ll need to consider the size and shape of the room. Using a darker shade on the walls such as plummett or down pipe, both Farrow & Ball, can make a small space cosy and warm, while using a softer delicate shade like this Home of Colour dove grey will maximise the natural light in the room. 

“If you really want to make a statement, combine with a patterned wallpaper, as seen in St. Modwen Homes’ new Maple Showhome at Locking Parklands. Different textures work particularly well and this marble effect wallpaper from Graham Brown is a fabulous take on the trend, or for a more subtle approach, try this metallic wallpaper from wilko. Wallpaper is also a great way to introduce geometric prints into a room with this elegant Hemsley Lovington design from Homebase.

“Grey works well off the walls too, choose furniture in charcoal shades and layer with accessories in different styles and fabrics. Don’t be afraid to add some personality, grey is a versatile shade and allows bold colours to pop. Combine this stylish Next sofa with bright, quilted cushions or invest in this Ben de Lisi loveseat – the multi-coloured buttons make it a stand-out addition to any space.

“In the bedroom, use soft furnishings in various shades of grey to create a calm and sophisticated look. A statement headboard looks great with simple yet stylish bedding – like this John Lewis set – and a knitted throw, just use a mix of colours and textures to keep it fresh.

“When it comes to the bathroom, combine traditional fixtures and fittings with stone or geometric tiles for a cool and contemporary look. If you’re on a budget, accessories are an easy way to update your bathroom, incorporate this slate set from Dunelm or these Marks and Spencer towels to help embrace the trend without breaking the bank.”

Share your photos of your grey interiors with St. Modwen Homes on Twitter, Instagram or on one of our development’s Facebook pages. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest too where you can see all the products mentioned in this blog.


Friday 9 September 2016

Top tips for moving house

With the majority of people placing moving house at the top of their most stressful things they have done in their life, we have put together some top tips to help ease the stresses and strains and make your house move disaster free…

1.  Start packing well in advance of your move date.  As soon as you start going through things you will no doubt start reminiscing over old photographs or baby clothes, doubling the time you thought your packing would take.

2.  Work from the top of the house to the bottom and have a clear out as you go. Be realistic about what you need, if you haven’t used it in the past 12 months get rid of it, either throw it away or donate it to charity.

3.  Pack up one room at a time, clearly labelling each box on the top and the side (so you can see when they are stacked as well) with details of the contents. Don’t forget to label if there are any breakables inside.

4.  Make sure when loading up the boxes that you load the ones you need least first so you aren’t digging around trying to get to your everyday items.

5.  As you dismantle furniture, put all the screws and fittings into a freezer bag and tape it to the item so you aren’t scrambling around for the correct fixtures.

6.  Take your furniture over to the new house first and boxes last, so you don’t end up moving boxes around again to get your sofa or bed in.

7.  Use fitted sheets, pillow covers and blankets to wrap up your fragile items; that way you aren’t carting additional packing material over to the new house. It also saves you money!

8.  Place a number on each box and a number on each door of your new house, that way everyone knows exactly where each box needs to go rather than constantly asking you.

9.  Don’t overfill the boxes as they will be too heavy to move. Aim for no more than 25kg in each box and try to pack heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter objects in bigger boxes.

10.   Pack an essentials box. In here there should be items you will need as soon as you get to the new house, such as bedding (try to make your bed as soon as possible - you will thank yourself later when you are exhausted from a day of unpacking) tea bags/coffee, cups, kettle, teaspoons, sugar, toilet roll, cleaning products and a corkscrew for that first celebratory drink! It is also useful to keep overnight items in this box too in case you are unable to unpack everything in one day.

Friday 2 September 2016

Paying homage to Stoke's finest delicacy


If someone asked you for an Oatcake for breakfast, you’d be among the majority if you pulled out a packet of Scottish crackers. Unless you’re lucky enough to be from the Potteries, in which case you’ll have experienced the city’s finest, and proudest export (since the pottery industry, of course): the Staffordshire Oatcake.

Providing a wholesome breakfast to the fine people of Stoke-on-Trent – and the many expats who continue to have their supplies shipped-out – the Staffordshire Oatcake is a sight to behold, and can be filled with an array of breakfast fillings.

What is it?

The Staffordshire Oatcake is a type of savoury pancake made from oatmeal, flour and yeast, traditionally cooked on a griddle or 'baxton' and dates back to the 19th century where it was baked over an open fire.

It was once common throughout the Potteries for oatcakes to be sold directly from people’s front windows to hungry customers. Though this practice has now since ceased, there are still a number of traditional family stores in and around Stoke’s five towns, where locals can purchase ‘half a dozen’ or a ‘dozen pack’ of Oatcakes.

Oatcakes are already cooked when purchased and can be re-heated in the microwave, pan or under the grill (definitely our favourite option)! They are traditionally served with breakfast fillings such as cheese, tomato, onion, bacon, sausage, and egg. They can also be eaten with sweet fillings – just don’t let the locals know we told you so!

Our favourite Oatcake recipe

Try this on a Saturday morning, with a big mug of tea – you won’t go far wrong, and we promise you’ll never look back!

If you’re feeling creative, why not have a go at making your own Oatcakes: www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/staffordshireoatcake_92371

Or you can buy your very own (and locally made) ones here: www.facebook.com/londonroadoatcakes/

Added ingredients (makes 4 oatcakes)

  • 8 rashers bacon
  • 75g chestnut mushrooms, cut in half
  • 150g cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 eggs, scrambled or fried
  • Tbsp. salted butter
  • You can also use sausages, tinned tomatoes and black pudding according to individual tastes

Method

  1. Preheat the grill to its highest setting.
  2. When the grill is hot, arrange the bacon onto a grill tray and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crisp and golden-brown on both sides. Set aside and keep warm.
  3. Meanwhile, heat butter in a separate frying pan over a medium heat. Add the mushrooms and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden-brown and cooked through. Set aside and keep warm.
  4. Use the rest of the butter in the pan and break in eggs – fry or scramble as preferred for 3-4 minutes until cooked. Set aside.
  5. Arrange bacon, mushrooms, egg and grated cheese into the centre of each oatcake. Put under the grill for 2-3 minutes. Remove carefully and roll from one end to the other to create a soft roll (but be careful not to burn your fingers)!
  6. Repeat the process with the remaining oatcakes, bacon, mushrooms, egg and cheese.
  7. Put all rolled oatcakes under the grill for a further minute.
  8. Serve immediately.

Want oatcakes for your breakfast every week? Find your dream new home in Stoke-on-Trent by visiting the Marketing Suite and Show Homes at Trentham Manor, which are open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5.30pm inclusive of the weekends. For more information or to book an appointment, call 0844 243 4520 or email TrenthamManor@StModwenHomes.co.uk. Alternatively visit www.stmodwenhomes.co.uk or follow the housebuilder on Twitter at @StModwenHomes and on the Trentham Manor Facebook page. 

Why live at Meon Vale?

Did you know that more than 30% of our homebuyers state that the main reason for choosing their new property is its location? With this in mind, we thought we’d ask some of our neighbours about what life is really like in the local area. First up is Charlotte McCarthy who has lived around Long Marston – home to our Meon Vale development – for 13 years. Here’s what she had to say…

“Being equidistant between Stratford-upon-Avon and Chipping Camden, yet living in the picturesque Warwickshire countryside means that you really do get the best of everything by living in this area.

“Perhaps the best time of the year is the summer when each of the local villages and towns hold their own fetes, including the Welford-upon-Avon Maypole event and the Stratford River Festival. Last month, the family and I went along to the Cotswolds Olimpick Games in Chipping Camden where there’s tug-of-war and a welly wanging competition to entertain the kids, as well as a torch-lit parade followed by a concert later on.

“This year, Stratford also held numerous celebrations to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, with parades, markets and street entertainment all taking place over the weekend. To be honest, there’s always plenty going on in Stratford, from exploring the independent shops, to hiring a boat on the river or taking the kids to an open day at the RSC (Royal Shakespeare Company) theatre, which they love, especially trying on the various costumes.

“We have more authors than just Shakespeare linked to the area as well. Did you know that J.R.R.Tolkein based The Great Watchtower of Amon Sul, otherwise known as Weathertop, in Lord of the Rings, on Meon Hill in Long Marston? It’s a great place for a walk on a Sunday afternoon.

“Sticking with the outdoors, I’d hugely recommend a visit to Lower Clopton Farm, which is around five minutes from Meon Vale and sells delicious meat and some beautiful gifts.

What’s more, every year in the spring, they hold an open day where you can take your children to see the baby animals.

“Other recommendations include both the Shakespeare Inn (which has a great beer garden) and The Bell Inn (serving fantastic food) in Welford-on-Avon, less than 10 minutes from Meon Vale and both great pubs. As a family, we also love the chippy in Lower Quinton. That’s also where you’ll find your local dentist and doctors. Anyone furnishing a new house should also pop to Barn Antiques Centre in Long Marston itself which has over 40 dealers selling antiques, furniture and collectables.

“People living at Meon Vale will also benefit from the amenities on site, including the Meon Vale Leisure Centre that opened last two years ago. Not only are my husband and I members but we’ve also been to numerous children’s birthday parties there and have signed the kids up to some of the all-day summer clubs whilst we’re working over the holidays. Additionally, there’s the Greenway which St. Modwen has extended as part of its redevelopment of Meon Vale. We’re currently there most weekends teaching the kids to ride their bikes and have used the footbath to walk directly into Stratford, helping to avoid any traffic at peak tourist times.

“It’s great to live somewhere where there’s so much going on, yet has all the benefits of a rural village life. We love living here and would very much recommend the area to anyone considering buying a new home.” 


Storage Solutions

Storage is usually high on everyone’s list when they are looking for a new home. We all want somewhere we can hide the hoover or keep clutter so our home looks neat, clean and minimalist. With this in mind, we caught up with Samantha Simmonds, Creative Director at Killer 5, to look into some clever storage solutions that you can utilise in your home…

“Let’s start with the bedroom, after all this is usually where people need the most storage space. Depending on the shape of your room, there’s not always space for a wardrobe, chest of drawers and a dressing table, therefore you might also consider using your bed for storage. Invest in an ottoman bed like this steel grey one from Time 4 Sleep or look for one with underneath storage, we love this classic style from Next; perfect to hide away those winter clothes when the sun finally makes an appearance.

“When it comes to bathroom storage it’s great to have somewhere to stash all your toiletries, rather than keeping them on show. Try this fantastically nautical drawer set from Homebase, or utilise the bathroom mirror for perfect hidden storage like this impressive Decora mirror. Why not try using shelves to free up floor space too? There’s a huge variety of unusual shelves out there so let your creativity go wild – get inspiration from these small crates, pipes and board or even wire racks.

“When it comes to the kitchen it is easy to get yourself in a clutter with spices, sauces, packets and pans falling out of every cupboard. My advice would be to use every inch of the kitchen to its full potential. Turn your spices into art by converting a chalkboard into a magnetic spice rack. Don’t think it has to stop at spices hanging on your walls, why not utensils or pans as well? From this amazing idea using a peg board so all your equipment has its own place, or even keep things on show but make them look more fun and pleasing on the eye like these baking goods.

“Do you have pets and are fed up of having their food bowls out all the time? Try this amazing idea that uses up usually abandoned space behind your plinth.
“If you’re feeling crafty, make use of furniture that you don’t use anymore and give it a new use. We love how easily you can turn this book shelf into a stunning window bench with built in storage.

“I know you’ll all be shocked to hear it, but even the kid’s bedrooms can be decluttered. Make your own craft station like this one, where all the materials and items are easy to access anytime. Get creative and use jars, shoe holders or buckets to store items off the floor, creating more space in your child’s room.

“A living room can be the hub of the home so try these storage solutions to help keep yours a welcoming space, whether it be trunk coffee table like this from Arbol House or even this handy multi draw unit from Maisons Du Monde that can be used as a TV stand, storage doesn’t have to be boring.”


No matter what size the space you can always transform it to be more useful, share with us your proudest storage solutions - send us your pictures on our Facebook pages or Twitter!