victorian queen

The ultimate spacious family home, moments from Battersea Park

52

WALLS

The house has evidently been a well-loved, fun-filled family home

A saunter south through Battersea Park and beyond, past the ever-elegant Prince of Wales Drive, and you will find yourself at the leafy and peaceful Victorian terraced houses of Foxmore Street. Which is where, in 2002, the current owners of one its smart piles judiciously stopped, lured by the scale of the family living quarters on offer. It was completely unmodernised, recalls James Gatehouse, investment advisor and former Grenadier Guards officer. But it was the size of the rooms and the fact that there is this wonderfully wide hallway that greets you as you walk through the front door that attracted me, as well as all of the original features and cornicing. No sooner had the family moved in than they got to work. It

took a year, Gatehouse recalls. We used GM Developments, a very high-end building contractor, to dig out the basement and to create the side return which instantly made everything feel roomier, as well as to raise the roof at the rear. We would have elevated at the front, but planning restrictions forbade it. In truth, it hasnt made a jot of difference, since the cavernous house is wonderfully spacious which makes sense when you learn that the walls go back to the very frame of the house, meaning every area has been used to its fullest potential. When it comes to the aesthetic, Gatehouse whose instant reaction to being questioned on his homes style is to pronounce it cluttered! defers to his wife, as it is her creative vision that pervades throughout. The kitchen is all smart black cupboards, marble breakfast bar, limestone floors and Neff appliances, while textured wallpaper lends a certain softness. A neat light-well that runs in a strip over the dining end of the room ensures that it is naturally spot-lit. From the dining area, two sets of French doors can be flung open on to a paved, Italianate garden, complete with manicured bay trees and terracotta pots filled with lavender all of which is Gatehouses department. The gardens meant to be low maintenance, but you wouldnt believe the work that goes into it! But there is the most wonderful fig tree from which, most years, we get about
BRIDGE MAGAZINE 53

50 or 60 figs. Not that this year has been especially fruitful after the weather conditions weve had... he notes ruefully. Perhaps one of the most unusual and winning aspects of the property is that it really is a house for all seasons. While the expanded basement is perfect for holing up in over the winter months, with its games-come-television room, utility room, spare bedroom and cosy snug, the garden is a joyful, and very secluded, spot for al fresco dining and sunbathing throughout the summer. Meanwhile, up the grand Victorian staircase, is a charming wallpapered bedroom overlooking the garden to the rear; a bathroom and a perfectly proportioned square master bedroom with large en-suite all lead off a sky-lit hallway.

Up another level is a deceptively large attic bedroom, which is the ideal den for children and teenagers. The house has evidently been a well-loved, fun-filled family home, while the area too has been source of happiness. Being so close to the park has made a huge difference, especially with children, Gatehouse waxes lyrical. Its a quiet street, and its close to some of the best schools in London. Its been a pleasure. Not only is this charming house situated on one of the most beautiful roads in Battersea, it also offers wonderful entertaining space and an unusual, well thought out layout. Mark Hutton, Associate Director, Battersea Park Office.

2,250,000 freehold; Foxmore Street, SW11 Contact Battersea Park Office 020 7720 8077

54

PHOTOGRAPHS MORTEN ODDING

WALLS

One of the winning aspects of the property is that it really is a house for all seasons

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 55

56

PHOTOGRAPHS MORTEN ODDING

WALLS

BrEaKinG MEWS
THIS MEWS HOUSE OFFERS SHARP STYLE AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN SPADES

its such a special street. we already know everyone by name

There is, says Martin Hunt, something quietly remarkable going on just off the Brompton Road. For in the deliciously picturesque Roland Way, a pretty cobbled mews, there is the sense of something equating to a community spirit. Its almost unheard of in London! he exclaims. Its such a special street, and although we live in Sussex, just having been in and out for the years worth of renovations, we already know everyone by name. Its so lovely. Its easy to see why Hunt, along with his wife Olivia, fell in love with the sky-blue painted house (we had to have it!), which is charmingly named Roland Cottage; as well as the fantastic location just off the Brompton Road, it is a pictureperfect mews, and at that time, even had integral garages that had once been used for carriage parking. It was very quaint, but sadly of very little practical use, recalls Hunt. In fact, the impracticality of the garage was effectively a microcosm of the whole. When the couple bought the property, there were two bedrooms and a box room set in 12,000 sq ft of near unusable accommodation. Enter then Raf, the superstar Polish builder who has renovated 16 of the houses on the mews; along with his crack team, he excavated
BRIDGE MAGAZINE 57

2,750 per week, Roland Way, SW7 Contact South Kensington Office 020 7584 8888

the basement by hand (they were literally throwing the rubble out straight into a skip on the street above), which, in turn, allowed them to jiggle around with floor heights so that the ceiling of the basement came down by almost a foot, meaning that the attic was given both a proper ceiling height and a new lease of life. It was like waving a magic wand, suddenly transforming the property from 12,000 sq ft to 24,000 sq ft. Spatial spells duly cast, they set to work making their newly opened-out property into something quite special. It was a project of passion as opposed to a hard-nosed investment, and for the ex-London agent and retired fund manager, it was a one-off foray into property, based on a love of the house. Indeed, the attentions lavished on it have paid off; working from the bottom up, the basement houses an immaculate fitted kitchen, complete with Miele appliances and dining space (think stylish low-hanging lamps illuminating the table), plus a study and luxury, hotel-worthy bathroom all lit by glass-topped light-wells (belying the fact that this is actually a basement), all washed in a chic stone colour. On the ground floor, meanwhile, there is an elegant westfacing sitting room, and above a refined marble fireplace sits a flat screen wall-mounted Samsung television. Peer over the glass balustrade in the sitting room and you can gaze down into the dining room, while in the adjoining space is a snug television room, from which the old garage doors open out on
58

WALLS

It was like waving a magic wand, transforming the property from 12,000 sq ft to 24,000 sq ft

to the pretty cobbled street. Climb the spot-lit winding oak staircase and you arrive at one of a myriad of pices de rsistance the decked terrace, which though diminutive, could not be more ideal for a cold glass of something delicious in the sunshine. Next door, the immaculate master bedroom is flooded with light, with one large square window facing the terrace, and three smaller windows looking mews-ward. Carrie Bradshaws should take note; as well as an adjoining en-suite bathroom, there is also a walk-in wardrobe. Go up the stairs once more and you will find two simple and comfortable further bedrooms, divided by a Jack and Jill bathroom. All of which makes this an exciting proposition for a family, professional couple or as Hunt suggests a busy bachelor who likes to park his car outside the front door and his mini-motorbike inside the working garage doors. The couple is now waiting for just the right people to move in: Were hoping for long-term tenants as its quite a premium to be the first in, because nothing has ever been used the house wont ever quite have that feeling again. A luxurious, completely refurbished four-storey house tucked away in this prestigious mews. It would make a superb family home and is also perfect for entertaining. Lottie Lambert, Associate Director, Kensington Gate Office.
BRIDGE MAGAZINE 59

More and more londoners are making a break for the country, with property at the centre of the decision
Many of us harbour rustic dreams: life-long ambitions to join the hunting-and-fishing set, a romantic fancy of keeping chickens and tending a garden full of hollyhocks, or simply a break from the high-octane urbanism of the capital. In fact, statistics show these reveries are no longer fantasy, as more and more Londoners are making a break for the country, with property at the centre of that decision. Although Douglas & Gordon is primarily known as a London agent it does, in fact, work throughout the whole of the UK. For anyone who wants to slip seamlessly from town to country, leveraging the Douglas & Gordon partnership with The London Office is just the ticket. The relationship between the two agencies was forged more than a decade ago and has been helping Londoners move to the country ever since. We wanted to work with an agent in London, and Douglas & Gordon best matched our profile, explains Bob Bickersteth, The London Offices director. It is a natural fit to our glove and gets us involved at an early stage with London homeowners who have the country in mind so that we can show them our clients properties across the UK.
60

George Franks, Sales Director of Douglas & Gordon is similarly effusive about the partnership, and D&Gs increased reach as result of it particularly in the current market as people begin considering settling beyond the reaches of the capital. Moving to the country has never been more appealing, he says. With London stock levels increasingly scarce and buyers having to consider multiple locations to move to, buying outside of the capital could now be a more favourable option. According to Franks, there is also an emerging trend for laying down rural roots while keeping one foot in the city. In the past,

D&G NEWS

coUntrY TRACKS
Whether you want to take advantage of your companys enhanced home-working policy or take the plunge and set up a chintz-free B&B, there is no excuse for simply flirting with the idea: its time to get yomping through the fields with the aid of D&Gs partnership with the london office

homeowners relocating to the country would sell in London to buy a new home in the country. But, increasingly, we are seeing more people holding on to their London homes and renting them out, while renting or buying in the country. For those who find themselves tempted by the country life, The London Office with D&G is an invaluable resource. The collaboration between the two companies means that anyone seeking property will receive specialist advice and assistance with the sale, purchase, rental and management of rural and town properties, everywhere from Scotland to Cornwall to Kent. Whatever the dream, whether its of setting up home in a cosy Cotswolds idyll or living a lavishly Downton-style existence surrounded by your own acres, The London Office and D&G can act to realise it via their network of offices and contacts which includes locals who are able to advise not only on property, but also on schools and other logistical factors. According to insurance company NFU Mutual, each year 100,000 people are leaving UK cities in favour of a more bucolic life. The demand for practical information is now so strong that D&G and The London Office stage annual Move to the Country events. To browse properties on offer and garner advice about

WORDS MAEVE HOSEA

what a rural move could mean for you, make a beeline for the Country Life-supported show, which this year takes place at Battersea Arts Centre on 14 May. It aims to be a one-stop shop for home-owning Londoners wishing to buy, sell and settle outside of the city. The show is the perfect opportunity to explore options and find out about what the country can offer, says Franks. Forget trawling through the Internet at the show youll find experts available to offer advice with in-depth knowledge of their local areas, while D&Gs staff will advise on selling or renting out London properties. Bickersteth seconds this. The show does what it says on the tin, he says. Whether visitors are looking for a weekend place, to move out permanently or make an investment, this is the place to garner information. Whether gathering necessary advice to make the big move or simply thinking about investing in a weekend retreat, The London Office with D&G is a vital resource with considerable combined expertise on every aspect of the subject. The London Office, 87 St Jamess Street, SW1A 1PL 020 7839 0888; enquiries@tlo.co.uk; thelondonoffice.co.uk
BriDGE MAGAZINE 61

62

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

With one of the worlds oldest forms of marketing in mind, D&G weaves its sharp-witted magic and produces a fabulous fairy tales campaign

D&G NEWS

Once upon a time in a castle (maisonette) in the mountains (Battersea), children were restless and bored and unlike their Victorian counterparts always seen and always heard. Then a good giant (a friendly estate agent) arrived and they were given the possibility of something new: a garden, a playroom and every reason to get that pet they had always longed for. They all lived happily ever after. People have been telling fairy stories to their children for centuries to explain to them the ways of the world as well as the value of a

the story, reflects Martyn Jackson, creative director of Ideas Factory. For instance, Jacks beanstalk proves useful in bringing international buyers to his cottage, which is for sale, and demonstrates that D&G has affiliated offices all over the world, in France, the USA, Dubai, Russia and South Africa. Fairy Tales is an elegant print advertising campaign that champions the various facets and departments of estate agency Douglas & Gordon. Consumers always expect something a little bit different from D&G, with former campaigns having featured quirky illustrations that are contemporary and zany in style. This year, however, the brand takes a more studied approach whilst maintaining its ever-present playful and innovative personality. Using the work of four fine art illustrators Marc Burckhardt, Julian de Narvaez, Paul Slater and Carol Lawson the overall look and feel is beautiful and classic, almost as if taken from an old childrens book. However, there is a hidden layer if you look a little deeper; Prince Charming is leaning Jacks over Sleeping Beauty with beanstalk D&G medals dangling off his proves useful in chest, while the Ugly Duckling bringing in is sporting fine tailoring international supplied by D&G. The princes decorations show just how BUYERS to his qualified he is for the job and cottage the natty suit of the swan-like character demonstrates the refurbishment capabilities of the agency. We wanted it to be a thinking-persons advertising campaign and, rather than Douglas & Gordon in-your-face, we wanted people to look a little bit for the D&G element and then be challenged to work out the story behind it, explains George Franks, sales director of Douglas & Gordon. My favourite so far is Hansel and Gretel; as well as being a lovely story, it is a very clear description of how D&G can help you as a landlord. That particular advert shows two children walking down a forked path into a dark forest; at the end of one of the forks, a cottage is just visible, and if you look carefully, you see that Gretel is holding an bit of prudent escapism. This year, Douglas & iPhone. It is, you then realise, through using Gordon leveraged the narrative power of this the D&G iPhone app that the pair has ended style of story-telling to launch a new brand up at the correct address. campaign using the overarching device of This imaginative collection of evocative well-known tales to weave a story about the illustrations presents just how the estate company and its multiple offerings. agency can assist its clients. The thing The campaign, which has been devised by about fairy tales is that they are traditional creative agency Ideas Factory, features a things but the stories are very impactful, series of inventive illustrated print adverts reflects Franks. Douglas & Gordon is a solid, showing modern updates on some iconic traditional firm with all the values that implies stories. I decided to use the stories of but we are also inventive, and think outside classic fairy tales to illustrate D&Gs qualities the box. We push boundaries. by subverting the outcome or the meaning of
BRIDGE MAGAZINE 63

WORDS MAEVE HOSEA

Lights camera action

Douglas & Gordon has always revelled in weaving a yarn, whether through its gloriously playful advertising campaigns or via its multi-media nine-screen video wall at the cutting-edge South Kensington office. And it is at the latter that property perusers and passing pedestrians alike can take in the fruits of D&Gs latest project; last summer, Londons most innovative estate agency issued an open invitation to students at Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication, the citys leading digital design and film school, to compete in producing silent films for display on a rotating basis on the LED video wall. Happily for the participants, the brief was gloriously free and open, giving plenty of scope for students to come up with some truly innovative work. The films could be five minutes or two hours and thematically they could address just about anything the only constrictions being that they should not need to use sound (somewhat distracting in the office), and that they should not be shocking (no impropriety for the good denizens of South Kensington, thank you!). The judges D&Gs very own Ivor Dickinson and Ravensbournes Freddie Gaffney were saddled, as it turned out, with an onerous task; not only were the entries numerous, they were also of an impressively high standard. After much debate and deliberation, however, the arbitration had to come to an end, and the judges duly picked their top three. In first place, fittingly, was a paean to London, devised and directed by Kristopher Forrest, who says of his winning work: My visual piece is a short, stylistic look into successful London lifestyles. To do this, I incorporated buildings, cars and businessmen. I mirrored a lot of the shots because I believed they depicted
64

Last summer D&G set A challenge to the students of Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication: to create short films to be displayed on its nine-screen video wall at the South Kensington office

expansion and growth within London and I also took inspiration from the music video Four Tet She moves She, directed by Ed Holdsworth. But although only one winner could scoop the first prize and the 1000 prize money, there were also silver and bronze gongs to bestow, the recipients of which would also be rewarded by having their work displayed up on the video wall, and by pocketing 750 and 500 respectively. In second place, the judges recognised the efforts of Joe Mercer Holland, whose Silhouettes in a Secret Garden is a short fashion film that portrays a luxurious and decadent lifestyle. The film produced in collaboration with fashion students at Ravensbourne follows a mysterious young woman, a silhouette symbolising a lifestyle, as she explores dreamily the grounds of the iconic 1930s Art Deco Eltham Palace, a beautiful English Heritage site in south-east London. Meanwhile, in third place was Sam Davis, who said: I made this film with the intention of learning about the programme Cinema 4D. I had never used it before and I started by trying to recreate a 3D sequence I had seen. The intention was to create an ident which would look slick and not only were also professional. The symbiotic project the the entries accolade of which is a great numerous, they asset to the winners portfolios were also of an was a triumph all round, so impressively high make sure you catch a glimpse of standard these Spielbergs-in-the-making on Harrington Road. You heard it here first. And thats a wrap, folks.

D&G NEWS

Clockwise from top: George Franks presents the winner and runners up with their prize money; a series of stills from Sam Davis 3D sequence; a still from Silhouettes in a Secret Garden; The Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication; George Franks with Kristopher Forrest; a still from the winning work; George with Joe Mercer Holland

the brief was gloriously free and open, giving plenty of scope for some truly innovative work

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 65

Extend your lease

(An investment, not a cost)
VALUE
(k)

LEASE LENGTH
(years)

Extending a lease adds signicant value to the property and eliminates any ground rent for the remainder of the term. As a lease shortens and property values rise, the cost of extending a lease rises dramatically. In the current London property market it is more important than ever to consider extending your lease in order to avoid seeing your property diminish in value as the lease becomes shorter.

By taking proper advice and by taking advantage of a leaseholders right to extend a lease you can add substantial value and marketability to a property. At D&G our team of RICS accredited valuers, specialists in valuing residential property, offer strategic and valuation advice and can negotiate directly with your landlord to ensure the best possible result for you. It is always worth speaking with one of our valuation team to discuss the possibility of extending your lease, regardless of the unexpired term. Our Professional Valuation Department can help with Red Book valuations, market appraisals, tax valuations, rent reviews, expert witness work, matrimonial, mortgage, probate, lease extension and freehold purchases.

Call our Valuation Department now on 020 7591 8746 and increase the value of your property

douglasandgordon.com

6867_D&G_Valuations Dept Ad 2013.indd 1

12/04/2013 14:26

Insider GUIDE

INSIDER GUIDE
PROPERTY ADVICE FROM LONDONS LARGEST INDEPENDENT AGENT
The Debate, Page 68 Market Report, Page 70 D&G Services, Page 72 Asset Management, Page 74

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 67

Selling agent Ed, and buying agent Louise thrash out the age-old argument: should buyers pay whatever it takes to secure the home of their dreams?

THE DEBATE

historical performance of London property implies owning for a long time is the sensible option

ED MEAD is a director of D&G and has 30 years experience as a selling agent emead@dng.co.uk

Ed Mead argues that you cant fight the facts: in the capital city, there will always be wealthy people competing to snap up the best of a limited pot of sought-after property. It would be all too easy to be glib and point out that if you had invested 1 on the stock market in January 1998 it would now be worth circa 1.25 (FTSE 100). If youd done the same with an average London property it would now be worth 3.15 (Land Registry). If you look at the last 15 years, inflation has been running at 2.9 per cent (according to ONS), meaning that the value of your money has eroded by circa 33 per cent over that whole period. At this reckoning, on a

capital basis, your stock options would now be underwater, but your house would be floating off into the sunset, most likely with you lounging in a hammock sipping something or smoking a cigar. Obviously statistics can be made to say anything and Ive not included yields or rents being reinvested but, given you can live in a house but not stocks, this would certainly seem like no contest. And for those who were lucky enough to have got in early, its a no-brainer. On that basis, perhaps I should stop right there, as surely any right-thinking person wouldnt argue about the odd 50k, get on and buy and all would be well in the long-run.

However, the days of the baby boomer are over and those buying now face a very different set of challenges. Moving about isnt as easy as it used to be; stamp duty and legal/agency/moving costs mean that people move far less frequently than they used to. Deposits seem harder to come by, while renting is still seen as the second-class option and I havent yet even mentioned that doom-laden, almost onomatopoeic word: austerity. But far from being a reason NOT to enter the fray, surely the historical performance of London property would seem to imply that owning for a long time is the sensible option anyway? Many blame agents

for rising prices, which is in any case fatuous, and in a market like London you have, by definition, rich people seeking a finite pot of desirable property, ready to take on the competition in a bidding war. Imagine there were only three iPads ever built and they were all displayed in a big glass box in Harrods with an auction to follow a major advertising campaign. The proof surely is that mortgage valuers and buying agents desperately try to use historical data to justify lower values to their clients, yet most will ignore that and pay what it takes, deciding to look forward instead. The moral of the story? You never pay too much, just possibly too soon.

68

DEBATE

If you are outbid after you made your best offer, have no regrets. Persistence will bring rewards

A heLPing hand
estate agents to value ever higher. Relentless demand and limited supply have thus combined with the increase in the pay-whatever-it-takes attitude from some buyers to act as high-octane fuel for the engine of London property price inflation. So what is the savvy buyer to do aside from employing a good agent to help them? My advice is to offer only as much as the property is worth to you, and you only. Accept that you may have to bid strongly but do not feel duty bound to play the game of bidding one-upmanship. Remember a high bid is not necessarily a high-quality bid. Youd be surprised at the number of deals that fall through because a bidders enthusiasm in the heat-ofthe-moment exceeds their ability or desire to pay when the adrenalin subsides. If you are outbid when you know you made the best offer you could, then have no regrets, press on and keep looking. Persistence will bring its rewards. The Gucci family believes that quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten. Valid maybe if you have just splashed out on an extravagant handbag, but applicable to potentially the biggest investment of your life? I think not. The price you pay for a property is likely to always stay in your mind whoever you are so do make sure its one your conscience, as well as your pocket, can live comfortably with.
LOUISE CRICHTON has been a buying agent for 15 years and is the founder of Louise Crichton Property Search enquiries@lcps.co.uk

Buyers should eschew oneupmanship and only ever offer the amount a property is worth to them and only them while excessive prices paid for real estate give a false impression of the market, argues Louise Crichton. From the frontline of the London property market I note a growing expectation from estate agents that buyers are better off paying whatever it takes to secure the property they want. Of course they are going to say this it is in estate agents best interests to encourage high prices. A property is said to be worth what someone will pay for it. But what if that someone is a cash-rich buyer for whom money is no object? Or an ill-advised buyer who doesnt really know or care much about values but just loves a certain property so much theyll blindly bid whatever they are told to? These buyers will undoubtedly end up paying whatever it takes because their default setting is to get what they want, whatever the cost. But are the premium prices a true indication of market value, or do they simply represent the exceptional willingness of those specific buyers to pay top dollar? Whichever way you look at it, such premium prices are, alas, then used as benchmarks for the pricing of the next sale on the street, giving ammunition to

by Andrew Montlake Communications Director Coreco Group

Hopefully the new scheme will allow them to return to more sensible underwriting processes and more competitive rates. One of the real issues is not the availability of mortgages (there havent been so many cheap deals for years), but that as activity has increased, service standards of some lenders have slipped, making them an unsuitable choice where speed of completion is key. With property stock still relatively low, a quick valuation and exchange is vital. As advisers, part of our process is to impart vital information on which lenders are able to meet the relevant deadline. It is no use applying for the cheapest rate only to see the home of your dreams sold to someone else. As the market strengthens, well all need as much help to buy as possible. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. A fee of up to 1% of the mortgage amount may be charged depending on individual circumstances. A typical fee is 495.

ILLUSTRATIONS THE DESIGN SURGERY

It really is a funny time to be a mortgage broker. Most are saying that theyve not been this busy since before Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy; enquiry levels are up, lenders are competing again, government-led incentive schemes abound and prices are dropping. Yet there are reports that mortgage lending has dropped and banks are struggling to say yes to the simplest loans. What we can say is that there are more positives than negatives. Whilst the governments Funding for Lending Scheme has brought the lenders out to play, their latest offering, the Help to Buy scheme, looks set to revolutionise the market next year. At first glance this wont just have first-time buyers rejoicing, but also those mortgage prisoners trapped with little equity and unable to move. Although theres a danger that this may artificially push up prices, or make buyers decide to hold purchases until the second part of the scheme in January, it could give the market a real boost. A fundamental question is whether lenders will impose the same tight credit scoring guidelines they currently adopt for high loan-to-value lending.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 69

MARKET RePort
Our readers will know that we normally draw data from all over D&G land, which encompasses Prime Central London and its satellite areas from Hammersmith in the west, right round to Clapham and Battersea in the east. And the results for the first quarter show a strong start to the year with capital values moving ahead 4.2 per cent. On the other hand, rents have continued to soften with an overall decline of 2.1 per cent. However, in this quarter, the performance of the parts is revealing; Prime Central London saw comparatively modest growth of 1.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2013, and a more significant decline in rental values, with rents falling back 4.4 per cent on average. In contrast, the rest of D&G land saw strong capital appreciation with a 5.2 per cent increase and only a modest rental decline of 1.1 per cent. So what is happening? Maybe Prime is taking a bit of a breather. Looking back over the past six years, the house market in Prime is up nearly 40 per cent since its previous peak back in 2007. International investors may well be seeing better value in other parts of London and the squeeze on rents is witnessing yields contract quite sharply. Despite a bright start to the year in the stock market,
70

confidence is in short supply. Overall, though, the geopolitical factors that have driven international capital into London remain painfully evident. Who in their right mind would keep their money in Euros now that bank deposits appear to be fair game for the tax man and when the situation in the Middle East particularly in Syria just seems to get worse? Non-Prime has enjoyed in capital terms its strongest quarter since the autumn of 2009, with a 5.2 per cent increase. The supply-and-demand equation is very similar to where it was 12 months ago with 3.6 buyers for every property. Whilst rents on the larger houses have declined in the quarter, they continue to hold up well for one-, two- and threebedroomed properties. Reshuffling the data to look at the performance of values by size of property, as opposed to area, produces interesting results; since the peak of 2007, larger properties have increased by as much as 35 per cent to 40 per cent. In contrast, over the same period, one-bedroomed flats have increased by only 15 per cent to 20 per cent. We put this down to the difficulty in getting credit for new buyers; those in the property market already have been able to trade up as they hold equity in their property, but fewer potential first-time buyers have been able to find deposits of the 25 per cent or 30 per cent that lenders require. These same frustrated buyers provide the rental pool for oneand two-bedroomed flats which means that these properties have good rental investment prospects.

SW LONDON
2012 3.94

PCL

2013 3.41

GROSS CAPITAL YIELD

AVERAGE GROSS YIELD
6.50 6.00 5.50 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

4.2%
increase in capital values for Prime

Buyers for every property

3.6
40%

5.2%

overall price Increase for non-Prime. Strongest increase for larger properties since 2007 quarter since 2009

Market REPORT

if the first quarters capital appreciation is anything to go by, the future LOOKS BRIGHT by Michael Hodgson, Chairman of Douglas & Gordon

FT ALL SHARE

D&G ALL
2013 1925.30

2013 1469.50

2100 1900

TOTAL RETURN INDEX

1700 1500

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VALUE ()
850 750 650 550 450 350 250 150 2012 2013

1300

CAPITAL VALUE INDEX

RPI

2013 245.80 2013 567.00

FT ALL SW SHARE LONDON

2013 825.89

D&G ALL
2013 843.20

PCL

2013 847.35

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BRIDGE MAGAZINE 71

Property Management & Refurbishment 020 7225 0234

We offer an effective management service, which not only deals with all the day-to-day problems that can arise in residential properties, but also ensures that landlords comply with the long list of rules and regulations
Demand for professional management services to ensure the efficient letting of property is increasing from landlords, both remote and more local. We liaise with the tenant and deal, on the landlords behalf, with the daily worry of solving a variety of complex problems that arise. History shows that where a property is managed there is a greater chance of an extended tenancy, which in turn creates tenant loyalty and reduces the risk of void periods. We have immediate access to an extensive range of long-standing, trustworthy and reliable contractors, including plumbers, Gas Safe-registered gas engineers, electricians, painters and decorators, builders and gardeners. Our service additionally includes dealing with end-of-tenancy claims, safety checks and insurance claims, as well as an out-ofhours emergency service. We also offer a full management service, even when your property has been let privately or by another agent. To find out more about our property management service, please call Peter Roberts on 020 7225 0234 or email proberts@dng.co.uk Your refurbishment will be in safe hands with our dedicated and experienced team. Working with the lettings team, they have unrivalled knowledge of suitable markets and how to attract them, ensuring your property reaches its fullest potential. To find out more, please call Tyrena Dangerfield on 020 7225 0234, or email tdangerfield@dng.co.uk

OUR SERVICES
Its not just buying and selling heres what else D&G has to offer

Professional Valuation Department 020 7591 8746

Our team of five RICS-accredited valuers specialises in valuing residential property, including red-book valuations, market appraisals, tax, rent reviews, expert witness, matrimonial, mortgages, lease extensions and freehold purchases
Extending your lease or acquiring the freehold of the building can pose significant benefits to you as a homeowner. These include: > If you extend your lease before it drops below 80 years, there will be an added saving in the cost. > The long-term value of your property is protected. As your lease shortens, the property will decrease in value. > The marketability of your property is improved when you sell. Purchasers tend to prefer a long lease. > The ability to obtain a mortgage is protected. In the present market, lending

institutions are less inclined to become involved with short leases. > The current ground rent you pay reduces to a peppercorn (nil). This is important if your rent is reviewable as a percentage of capital value, which could result in a large increase. In brief, you will qualify if: Lease extension > You have owned the property for more than two years. > There is no residency requirement and flats can be held in company names. > The original lease was granted for a term greater than 21 years at a low ground rent. Collective enfranchisement > Half of the total number of flats in the building must participate. > The non-residential element must not exceed 25 per cent. > There is no residency requirement and there is no two-year ownership rule. To find out more, please call the professional valuation department on 020 7591 8746 or visit James Hamand, douglasandgordon Associate, jhamand@dng.co.uk com

Peter Roberts, Manager, proberts@dng.co.uk

72

Tyrena Dangerfield, Associate, tdangerfield@dng.co.uk

Services

D&G Recruitment 020 7963 4600

Douglas & Gordon is renowned for its focus on customer service and it looks after its employees just as well. D&G was first awarded Investors in People in the year 2000 and was re-accredited in 2003 and 2008
We are one of the remaining estate agents in central London to work on a pooled-commission basis, as well as offering additional individual bonuses. This is certainly harder to manage, but essential for creating a fantastic team spirit and a happy, productive working environment. In addition, we offer: > In-house training, plus frequent additional external training courses. > The opportunity to be part of an expanding company, which currently has in excess of 200 employees. This offers regular chances for promotion and career development. > Generous and achievable individual bonus schemes available for all top performers, in addition to the Douglas & Gordon commission pool. > Attractive salary packages, including company cars (VW Golfs for negotiators, BMWs for managers), iPhones and private healthcare plans. > The very highest level of competent support in terms of administration and IT. > High levels of tenants, purchasers and properties, plus a shared database; giving all negotiators more opportunities than most. > Oh... and did we mention, we throw some of the best Christmas parties in town! We are only interested in exceptional people. If you are one and would be interested in joining Douglas & Gordon in any capacity (subject to vacancies), please send your CV to: Gilly Westwell 67-68 Warwick Square, London, SW1V 2AR. Alternatively, call 020 7963 4600 or email Gilly Westwell, recruitment@dng. Associate, co.uk recruitment@dng.co.uk

Corporate Services 020 7589 5252

Douglas & Gordons corporate services department specialises in forming and building long-lasting relationships with large corporations and relocation agents. Our vast experience enables us to deliver outstanding properties to corporate tenants seeking the highest quality
We have excellent relationships with a large number of highly regarded companies. This service has been created to further these relationships and to provide support to the many relocation agents who move employees to London on a daily basis. Relocation agents typically help to house corporate employees who are moving to London for the first time. We are able to provide a single point of contact, linking our network of offices.

Our professionalism and responsiveness, as well as our friendly and honest approach to property, mean that we are frequently the first port-of-call during a search. We also offer a fully complimentary bespoke service, which is tailored to the specific requirements of individual companies and their employees. Our corporate services department can create a personalised and professional home search, and provide a dedicated account manager who is able to assist and guide in all parts of the relocation process. Our service benefits tenants by removing the time-consuming administrative burden of searching for and finding a property, and additionally offers support throughout the whole lettings process. Landlords can rest assured that they will have the highest quality of tenants and a smooth-running tenancy from beginning to end. To find out more, please call Camilla Morris on 020 7589 5252 or email Camilla Morris corporateservices@ Corporate Service, dng.co.uk

corporateservices@dng.co.uk

The Management of Your Block 020 7963 4646

OK, so we may not be able to make block management sexy, but we can promise you something equally satisfying: a unique, efficient and highly prestigious service that gets you the very best results
With the responsibility of managing in excess of 5,000 units throughout central London, we have established a reputation as one of the market leaders in the field of block management, with the majority of our instructions coming through referrals from residents or clients in our existing blocks. This is testament to our great team. Based at our head office in Warwick Square are our senior property managers and senior service charge accountants, who between them have more than 150 years experience of residential block management. Each building benefits from a regular surgery, either weekly or monthly, depending on the size, providing the client and residents

with the comfort of knowing their building is being managed on a very personal level. We were the first residential agent in the UK to offer a fully comprehensive web-based accounting package for our clients to access. This security-protected website allows clients to view their buildings accounts, including arrears, property expenditure and balances. But we havent rested on our laurels. The new, exciting, interactive Douglas & Gordon website also includes a virtual noticeboard for every block. This accommodates PDF and jpeg files, so that notices can be posted on the board, along with minutes of meetings, photos and newsletters. There has never been a better way for residents to get information about what is going on in their building. All of this is included in the fee. Can you afford not to have Douglas & Gordon as your managing agent? For more details, please call Calum Watson on 020 7963 4646 or email cwatson@dng.co.uk Calum Watson, for our virtual Associate Director, brochure cwatson@dng.co.uk
BRIDGE MAGAZINE 73

Invested interest
D&GAM, Douglas & Gordons asset management arm, has launched The London Property Team, a brandnew subsidiary company devoted to getting propertyinvestors the best possible returns. Office manager Celine Moyse gives us a 10-step guide to getting themost from your investment
oyse Celine M ger n a a Office M

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

First, contact us via info@dngam.com, or call Celine on 020 7963 4624. Next, we will drill down to understand your budget, risk appetite and return requirements (capital, income, or both). We will then prepare a strategy document setting out what you want and how we will help you to achieve it. We will analyse the pros and cons of borrowing, and fit that into the investment model. We will next source suitable stock from the market (or agents and other trusted sources), as well as our off-market contacts. We will then distil all possibilities into a shortlist and take you on viewings. We will negotiate for you and get the best deal based on our knowledge of the market and recent price action. We will help you throughout the whole purchase process (valuation, bank lending, lawyers). We will advise on refurbishments and improvements, and then execute them if you want us to. We will find you a tenant, manage the property and send you your monthly/ quarterly rent cheque.
67-68 Warw ick Square, SW1V 2AR Office: 020 7963 4600 Direct: 020 7963 4624 Mobile: 078 50 774791 cmoyse@dn gam.com

We will drill down to understand your budget, risk appetite and return requirements

74

Asset Management

we will negotiate for you and get the best deal based on our knowledge and recent price action

Examples of The London Property Teams 2012 track record for investor clients: 1. Four-bedroom house, Kensington, W8: Generated an immediate 11 per cent capital uplift post refurbishment and a 3 per cent yield. 2. Three-bedroom terraced house, Kensington, W8: Generated immediate capital uplift post refurbishment and a yield of 3.5 per cent. 3. Three-bedroom flat, Battersea Park, SW11: Generated an immediate capital uplift post refurbishment and a yield of 4.5 per cent. 4. Two-bedroom garden flat, Battersea Park, SW11: Generated an immediate capital uplift post refurbishment and a yield of 4.7 per cent. Acquired off market. 5. Two-bedroom flat, Battersea Park, SW11: Generated a 13 per cent capital uplift post refurbishment and yield of 4 per cent.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 75

NORTH
08
Notting Hill
Pages 148-159

A Warwick Square Head Office 020 7963 4600 Block Management 020 7963 4646

67-68 Warwick Square London SW1V 2AR

B Ixworth Place Professional Valuations 020 7591 8746 Lettings Management 020 7225 0234 Property Management 020 7225 0234 Tenancy Management 020 7052 9740

05
Kensington
Pages 122-133

37 Ixworth Place London SW3 3QH

HYDE PARK

04
Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush
Pages 108-121

06

07 A 02 01
Chelsea
Pages 78-93

South Kensington & Kensington Gate

Pages 134-147

09

Pimlico & Westminster

Pages 160-173

03
Fulham

IV

West Putney

ER

15

TH

Pages 94-107

AM

BATTERSEA PARK

12
Battersea Park

14
East Putney CLAPHAM COMMON

13
Clapham Southside

11
Battersea

16
Southelds & Earlseld

10
Balham

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NORTH

Welcome to the North edition of Bridge magazine; our pick of the finest properties currently available for sale or to let in the best areas north of the river. Our colour-coded index on the right will guide you around your favourite part of London, helping you to find your perfect home quickly and easily. Each area starts with properties for sale, then leads on to properties to let. To view a summary of properties available south of the river, as well as country and international properties, head to our directory at the back, or if you would like to see more and receive the latest South edition of Bridge, please call Olivia Quarrelle on 020 7801 3312 or email oquarrelle@dng.co.uk. For the latest property updates, check out our website or let your phone do the search for you and download the D&G Property App. To find out more about the properties we showcase in Bridge, or if you need any assistance with your search, please call into your local Douglas & Gordon office. We are here to help.

NORTH
01 & 02 Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 Lettings 020 7581 6666 Pages 78-93

03 Fulham Sales 020 7731 4391 Lettings 020 7731 4791 Pages 94-107

04 Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales 020 8563 7100 Lettings 020 8563 4422 Pages 108-121

05 Kensington Sales 020 7792 1881 Lettings 020 7792 1331 Pages 122-133

douglasandgordon.com

06 & 07 South Kensington & Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 Lettings 020 7589 5252 Pages 134-147 08 Notting Hill Sales 020 7727 7777 Lettings 020 7727 8000 Pages 148-159

09 Pimlico & Westminster Sales 020 7931 8200 Lettings 020 7931 8300 Pages 160-173

Directory
South properties Pages 175-187 Country properties Pages 188-189
SUPPORTING

International properties Pages 190-193

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 77

The Saatchi Gallery plays host to some of the finest modern art in the country

INTRODUCING

Chelsea SW3 xxxx SW4

WELCOME TO
Edward Mead, Director Sales, emead@dng.co.uk

WELCOME TO

rumoured village atmosphere is brought to

Chelsea Sales 45 Sloane Avenue, London SW3 3DH T 020 7225 1225 E chelseasales@dng.co.uk

emead@dng.co.uk

Chelsea Sales 45 Sloane Avenue, London SW3 3DH T 0207 7225 1225 E chelseasales@dng.co.uk Chelsea Lettings 55-57 Sloane Avenue, London SW3 T 020 7581 6666 E chelsealets@dng.co.uk Chelsea Lettings 45 Sloane Avenue, London SW3 3DH T 0207 7225 12253DH E chelsealettings@dng.co.uk douglasandgordon.com douglasandgordon.co.uk

CREDIT MAIN PHOTOGRAPH HERE CREDITCOURTESY HERE OF SAATCHI GALLERY BY MATTHEW BOOTH, 2009

No matter your perception of Chelsea, whether enjoying some window-shopping. And where better to its of well-coiffed twentysomethings or yummy this than at Duke the fore. An independentdo vets practice sits of York Square, which hides away Clapham South has all the advantages of INTRODUCING mummies out in force, its safe to say youve pictured great finds like Belgian shoe brand No and Yves being so close to the wide green spaces of the alongside locally-run DIY stores, the excellent yourself living in one of the boroughs gorgeous Delorme for fine French bedding. Fromagerie cheese shop and firm favourite common, but is most definitely at the quieter squares, popping Bluebird Cafwhich for serves Royal Hospital Road, where foodies can enjoy The Abbeville, up refined, end of town, withGeorgian families continuing to settle to the brunch, or lapping up the vista from Chelsea Harbour. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, houses the National modern European food (try the fresh tortelloni down here as a result. It is, in fact, the heart Some of Londons finest landmarks are located Army Museum and with gorgonzola and walnut or braised squidthe Royal Hospital. The stunning of suburban Clapham, with row upon row of here Sir Christopher Wrens Royal Hospital, grounds play host to prestigious events, including the with chipotle Chelsea sauce). residential back streets disguised by genteel Nicola Chambers, Bridge, the Kings Road Its not all designer shops Chelsea Flower Show every summer. Towards the other endworld-famous of Abbeville Road streets with independent boutiques, with Associate Director high Lettings, either, though there are plenty of those as well. Along Follow the road to the peaceful Chelsea Physic or nchambers@dng.co.uk is Clapham Common tube, where Carmen not a chain in sight. the Kings Road youll find the famous perfumery to Embankment and Albert Bridge Gardens, where Bar De Tapas has been cooking up authentic Balham Hill might be the gateway to lorrunto Voluptibus, Directorwho Sales, Penhaligons, which has been serving Chelsea entrance is not quite Here, those Spanish cuisine since the nineties. There are as exclusive. the area, with its Northern line tube and emead@dng.co.uk aristocracy since 1870 and today remains as popular. dont benefit from one of Chelseas private gardens, also plenty of cafs and bars in the Clapham other general amenities, but exit towards The Saatchi Gallery, located just offTown the Kings can enjoy manicured green spaces befitting the Old district. Between the streets of the common and laid-back bars with great Road, is a magnificent building and a testament to the postcode. Great bars beautiful, tall, bay-fronted red-brick homes are and pubs such as The Phene gardens make for perfect summertime Above: A view of areas former life as a hub for bohemian artists in the can be found Battersea Power dotted several primary schools, which along have the quieter back streets. drinking dens. The residential streets behind Victorian era and again in the Swinging Sixties. (Even Station from the If Cheyne Walks coveted red brick homes (which received great ratings in recent years. are typified by red-brick Victorian and river Bob Marley lived in a Chelsea townhouse when, in count Mick Jagger, Laurence Olivier and Sylvia Edwardian terraces turned into duplexes or 1972, he first landed on the London scene.) Now the Pankhurst as past residents) arent within affordability, retained as chunky family homes. Saatchis halls or surroundings make for a great place there are plenty of elegant pieds--terre and spacious Follow the maze of streets to nearby Virginia Skilbeck, Head of Lettings, to while away an afternoon, followed by a bite to eat flats available to choose from in the streets between Abbeville Road, where the Douglas and vskilbeck@dng.co.uk at the Italian restaurant and deli, Manicomio, before the Royal Hospital and Kings Road. lorrunto Voluptibus, Director Sales, Gordon offices are located, and the areas

15,750,000 Freehold West Halkin Street SW1

An imposing white stucco fronted, eight bedroom property with enough space to house, some in privacy, a large family in a style rarely found in central London. 8 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (4 en-suite), 2 shower rooms, 2 cloakrooms, 2 reception rooms, 2 studies, Dining room, 3 kitchens, Sauna, Roof terrace, Balcony, Patio, Storage, 3 vaults, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 79

12,000,000 Share of Freehold Knightsbridge SW1X

A unique share of freehold, eighth and ninth floor, very private penthouse flat directly overlooking Hyde Park from all rooms with three equally private terraces. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and separate shower, Second bedroom with en-suite shower room, Third bedroom, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Large reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, 3 terraces, Lift, Porter, Views of Hyde Park, EPC: D.

8,250,000 Share of Freehold Wilbraham Place SW1X

A rare, c.3,000 sq.ft. flat on the fourth floor (with lift access) of a handsome red brick portered period building, close to Sloane Square. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 3 further bedrooms, Shower room, 2 reception rooms, Dining room, Kitchen, Study, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 81

5,500,000 Leasehold Cadogan Square SW1X

A beautiful maisonette, recently completely rebuilt, with two terraces and a spectacular drawing room.

3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, Dressing room, 2 reception rooms, Kitchen, Terrace, Patio, EPC: E.

3,500,000 Share of Freehold Franklins Row SW3

A spectacular, raised ground floor, four bed flat with lovely westerly views over the garden square.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, Access Burton Court grounds by separate negotiation, EPC: E.

3,000,000 Freehold Godfrey Street SW3

A wonderful eco-friendly house that's been completely rebuilt to exacting modern standards.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception/dining room, 2 further reception rooms, Kitchen, Terrace, Patio, Solar panels, EPC: C.

2,500,000 Share of Freehold Whiteheads Grove SW3

Overlooking Chelsea Green and Whiteheads Grove, a three bedroom first floor flat in one of the best positions in the block.

3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 83

2,250,000 Share of Freehold Culford Gardens SW3

A mostly ground floor, four bedroom flat in a well-maintained mansion block adjacent to Sloane Square.

2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, 2 further bedrooms, Shower room, Reception room/kitchen, Resident caretaker, EPC: E.

1,750,000 Freehold Lots Road SW10

A beautiful south-facing house close to the River Thames which has been modernised to a high standard throughout.

3 bedrooms, Bedroom 4/study, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Garden, EPC: C.

1,495,000 Share of Freehold Whiteheads Grove SW3

A very bright top (seventh) floor corner flat with far reaching double aspect views and a double reception room.

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Double reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, EPC: E.

1,450,000 Share of Freehold Lennox Gardens SW1X

In one of London's best addresses, a recently refurbished two bed flat in an elegant period building.

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, Communal garden, Resident caretaker, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 85

1,295,000 Leasehold Tite Street SW3

A ground and garden floor maisonette in a handsome red brick period building between the King's Road and the River Thames. 3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, Patio, EPC: D.

1,195,000 Leasehold Egerton Gardens SW3

On a 42 year lease, a well-maintained lower ground floor flat with direct access to the communal gardens. 2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/ breakfast room, Direct access to communal gardens, EPC: D.

1,100,000 Leasehold Brompton Square SW3

A lower ground floor flat with wonderful open-plan living space and a patio in a well maintained and handsome period building. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, Reception room with open-plan kitchen, 2 patios, Communal garden, EPC: C.

995,000 Leasehold Chelsea Manor Street SW3

A spectacular flat on the third floor (with lift) of this well maintained and secure purpose-built block. Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room with open-plan kitchen, Lift, Porter, EPC: C.

950,000 Leasehold Draycott Avenue SW3

A beautifully proportioned two bedroom flat located on the ground and first floor of a handsome period building on Draycott Avenue. 2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: D.

895,000 Share of Freehold Walton Street SW3

A wonderful opportunity to buy a well-proportioned one bedroom flat in this conveniently located Chelsea block just off Walton Street. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Porter, EPC: C.

650,000 Leasehold Chelsea Manor Street SW3

A bright south-west facing second floor one bedroom flat in a well maintained period block with porter. Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Balcony, Lift, Porter, EPC: C.

649,950 Leasehold Milmans Street SW10

A well-proportioned one bedroom flat in a popular purpose built block reserved for those over 55 years of age. Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, Offstreet parking, Communal gardens, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 87

649,000 Share of Freehold Sloane Avenue SW3

A fantastic well-proportioned one bedroom flat with a balcony situated on the second floor of a prestigious purpose-built block. Double bedroom, Bathroom/shower room, Reception room/kitchen, Balcony, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

600,000 Leasehold Elystan Place SW3

A second floor balcony flat, with lift, facing south and quietly located at the rear of a secure purpose-built block. Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Terrace, Lift, EPC: D.

595,000 Share of Freehold Fernshaw Road SW10

A fully modernised one bedroom flat with wooden floors throughout. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Reception room, Openplan kitchen, Resident parking permits available, EPC: E.

585,000 Leasehold Sloane Avenue SW3

A very bright southwest-facing corner studio flat in this sought-after Chelsea block, an excellent buy to let. Studio room with open-plan kitchen, Shower room, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

550,000 Share of Freehold Finborough Road SW10

A well-presented two bedroom flat on the first floor of this mid terrace west-facing period conversion. Good buy to let. 2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: D.

549,999 Leasehold Sloane Avenue SW3

A light one bedroom flat in a purpose built Chelsea block that would be an excellent investment. Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room/kitchen, Lift, Porter, EPC: C.

525,000 Leasehold Callow Street SW3

A delightful two bedroom, second floor flat that enjoys excellent natural light and westerly views. 2 double bedrooms, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: D.

525,000 Share of Freehold Sloane Avenue SW3

New to the market, an immaculate studio flat on the top floor of a sought-after Chelsea block. Great buy to let. Studio room, Shower room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 89

3,950 per week Furnished Lowndes Square SW1

An outstanding property, immaculately decorated throughout with luxurious bathrooms and fantastic storage space.

3 double bedrooms, 3 en-suite bathrooms, Reception room, Dining area, Eat-in kitchen, Parking space, Porter, EPC: E.

3,250 per week Furnished Chelsea Manor Gardens SW3

A spectacular duplex penthouse with panoramic views from the wrap around balcony, which also boasts a hot tub.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Terrace with hot tub, Caretaker, EPC: G.

2,950 per week Unfurnished Pavilion Road SW1

An outstanding, extremely light, double fronted house which has been refurbished and boasts a separate dining room.

5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite), Drawing room, Dining room, Kitchen, Garden, Terrace, EPC: E.

1,750 per week Unfurnished Tite Street SW3

An incredible penthouse, which has been redecorated throughout and benefits from wooden floors and fantastic river views.

3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite), Cloakroom, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Lift, EPC: F.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 91

1,600 per week Unfurnished Lennox Gardens SW1

A contemporary second floor flat in this lovely garden square, close to Knightsbridge, Sloane Square and South Kensington. 2 bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms, Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Lift, Access to the garden square, EPC: E.

1,100 per week Unfurnished Elystan Place SW3

An immaculate house benefitting from a lovely patio garden, ideally located just off the King's Road. 2 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms, Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Study, Garden, Roof terrace, EPC: D.

1,050 per week Unfurnished Chelsea Manor Street SW3

An outstanding, unique flat which has been refurbished to an exacting standard and benefits from fantastic views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Air conditioning, Porter, EPC: D.

895 per week Unfurnished Princes Gate SW7

A newly refurbished flat which benefits from a large reception room with high ceilings, ideally located close to South Kensington. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Caretaker, EPC: E.

895 per week Unfurnished/Furnished Cheltenham Terrace SW3

A stunning flat, which has been refurbished to a high standard and benefits from wooden flooring. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Porter, Central heating & hot water included, EPC: B.

795 per week Furnished King's Road SW3

A fantastic penthouse flat with oak flooring and a master bedroom suite, including a dressing area and en-suite bathroom. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, Communal garden, EPC: C.

625 per week Furnished Paultons Square SW3

An immaculate and bright flat which has been recently refurbished, with views over the pretty garden square. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Communal gardens, EPC: C.

595 per week Furnished Halsey Street SW3

A charming and neutrally decorated top floor flat, ideally located close to Sloane Square. 3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: C.

BRIDGE MAGAZINE 93