Winterbrook Estate Agents

2 Bedroom Terrace, Wallingford £345,000.00

Sat, 25 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

A lovely two bedroom retirement cottage for the over 55 age group in this extremely popular development situated close to the many amenities of the town centre.

2 Bedroom Barn Conversion, Long Wittenham £1,900.00

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 05:49:27 GMT

This beautifully presented barn conversion is situated in a unique location close to the river in a `tucked away` courtyard setting. It would suit a single person or couple available on a long term let. Inclusive of water rates and Council Tax. Check out our online video.

3 Bedroom Detached, Nettlebed £1,345,000.00

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 06:27:06 GMT

Brackenridge House originally dates back to the 17th Century. An imposing property located a short distance from Nettlebed and located at the edge of the rural hamlet of Park End.

3 Bedroom Bungalow, Cholsey £525,000.00

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 02:32:55 GMT

A beautifully extended three-bedroom chalet style property, situated on a corner plot. The property boasts mature gardens wrapping the property, a driveway which provides parking for four cars. Solar panels fitted.

5 Bedroom Detached, Reading Road £1,750,000.00

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:50:49 GMT

Holbrook House is an attractive Individual house, built in 1990 with rendered elevations under a slate roof. The spacious accommodation is arranged over three floors and large feature windows and high ceilings provide a light and airy feel throughout. Refurbished to a high specification throughout.

6 Bedroom Semi-Detached, Shillingford £895,000.00

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 12:19:08 GMT

POTENTIAL BED & BREAKFAST WITH THREE BEDS ENSUITE. Over 2800 sq ft of accommodation amazing rural views with further scope to extend in a plot just below 0.2 acres.

2 Bedroom Apartment, Wallingford £1,150.00

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 12:34:20 GMT

Situated in the centre of Wallingford this top floor two bedroom apartment has an en suite, bathroom. Open plan living room and kitchen with views over the town. Check out our online video. This property is available from the beginning of November 2024.

4 Bedroom Detached, Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell £950,000.00

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:38:13 GMT

Nestled in a quiet cul de sac in the charming village of Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell, this spectacular detached property offers family living with accommodation totally over 2300 sq ft. Check out our online video.

4 Bedroom Cottage, Wallingford £800,000.00

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:39:24 GMT

Winterbrook presents this charming and unique four bedroom cottage which retains many of its original period features. Located on Church Lane, a short stroll from St Mary`s Church and the market square, this historical home benefits a prime location in Wallingford, Oxfordshire.

4 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £750,000.00

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:46:15 GMT

Nestled away in the heart of Wallingford, you will find this fascinating detached house in a truly unique location. Tucked away from the village centre, yet within a stone`s throw to all local amenities, this property benefits from a lovely secluded plot with a south facing garden & separate annex.

0 Bedroom Commercial Property, Wallingford £995.00

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:28:03 GMT

Shop available to rent on a long term basis. A1/A2 usage. £15,000 pa. Main shop area measures 9.12 x 6.81 metres. Lobby area 5.11 x 2.41 Two toilets and a kitchen.

5 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £850,000.00

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:34:28 GMT

Winterbrook are delighted to present this rare opportunity to own a distinctive 18th century five bedroom home, steeped in local history and enriched with character and charm. Located in the heart of Wallingford town, the property boasts a unique benefit of gated gardens with car port parking.

5 Bedroom Detached, Shillingford £750,000.00

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:37:41 GMT

Winterbrook presents this beautifully enhanced five bedroom detached family home which boasts spacious yet versatile ground floor accommodation. Situated in one of the most sought after private roads in the area, with gardens to three sides, large driveway and garage, it is a rare gem to the market.

4 Bedroom Cottage, Cholsey £1,150,000.00

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 09:50:55 GMT

This charming Grade Two listed character cottage, dating back to the early 1600`s is located in the heart of Cholsey village, close to all amenities. With mature gardens approaching 0.5 acres and additional outbuildings, parking and double garage.

4 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £3,000.00

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:58:07 GMT

A Detached four bedroom riverside property located in one of Wallingford`s most prodigious and highly desired private roads. The property has large private and mature rear garden with a swimming pool. Unfurnished.

2 Bedroom House, Aston Upthorpe £350,000.00

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 03:59:40 GMT

This two bedroom property is in an elevated position on the edge of Aston Upthorpe village with great views. With a large garden at the rear the property backing onto open land and open- plan lawned garden to the front. No onward chain.

3 Bedroom House, Wallingford £460,000.00

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:08:01 GMT

A modern three bedroom house situated in the heart of the town within a short stroll to all the town`s amenities and close to the Kinecroft park. Lovely light kitchen/breakfast room overlooking the private garden. No onward chain.

0 Bedroom Office, Wallingford £1,000.00

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 01:59:10 GMT

First floor office space available in a town centre location. Use of shared facilities including a newly fitted kitchen. Electric and heating inclusive.

0 Bedroom Office, Wallingford £350.00

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:00:03 GMT

First floor office space available in a town centre location. Use of shared facilities including a newly fitted kitchen. Electric and heating inclusive.

4 Bedroom House, Cholsey £575,000.00

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 03:50:48 GMT

One of only three properties located at the end of Ferry Lane located in a unique position overlooking open fields. The property has over 1600 sq ft of accommodation with four bedrooms, three bathrooms an impressive 26ft kitchen/ family room and an18ft main bedroom.

2 Bedroom Apartment, Wallingford £220,000.00

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 01:54:17 GMT

Situated in a small gated development in the centre of Wallingford this top floor two bedroom apartment has an en suite, bathroom. Open plan 15ft 9 living room and 15ft 9 kitchen with views over the town.

2 Bedroom House, St. Marys Street £475,000.00

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:22:01 GMT

A unique character two-bedroom property in Central Wallingford

, tucked away in a quiet yet highly central position in Wallingford. This versatile property has approaching 1,200 sq ft of accommodation and is currently configured as two self-contained apartments, each with its own private

5 Bedroom Detached, Mongewell £699,000.00

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:36:08 GMT

This five bedroom rendered detached property has just under 2,000 sq ft of accommodation over three floors with ample parking and a large garage. A sunny rear aspect and an open view at the front over landscaped grounds and countryside beyond. NO ONWARD CHAIN

4 Bedroom Detached, Chalgrove £500,000.00

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 11:43:40 GMT

An Individually built four-bedroom detached home set in an elevated position

on a corner plot, this individually built modern detached property offers spacious and well-balanced accommodation, with no onward chain complications.

5 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £1,000,000.00

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:43:20 GMT

Set back off the Wantage Road off a side road and located within a fabulous plot extending to approximately one-third of an acre, this substantial family home is superbly positioned on the edge of town.

2 Bedroom Terrace, Wallingford £495,000.00

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:12:29 GMT

This two-bedroom warden-assisted retirement home is in a tucked away location in the St Lucians Lane development. The private tucked-away aspect overlooks St Lucians Lane at the front. Garage. No Onward chain complications.

3 Bedroom Semi-Detached, Nettlebed £725,000.00

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:06:42 GMT

This four bedroom semi detached property is set within a generous plot and offers further scope for development (subject to planning), has a large driveway and parking to the front, great views of the surrounding countryside.

2 Bedroom House, Wallingford £485,000.00

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:56:10 GMT

This two-bedroom end of terrace warden-assisted retirement home is in a tucked away location in the St Lucians Lane development overlooking St. Lucians Lane.

3 Bedroom Semi-Detached, Cholsey £166,800.00

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:01:10 GMT

A 40% share of this recently redecorated modern three bedroom semi detached property is situated ion in an excellent position overlooking open fields at the rear. Check out the 360 tour.

1 Bedroom Maisonette, Wallingford £210,000.00

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:46:46 GMT

This character maisonette is located on the High Street with it`s private front door, high ceilings, well proportioned rooms, character features with a courtyard access at the rear.

3 Bedroom Semi-Detached, Moulsford £485,000.00

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:38:27 GMT

A fantastic family home in this sought after village location close to parks, river and easy access to the river. Over 1300 sq ft of accommodation with a large living room, lounge and an open plan kitchen/garden room with bi-folding doors to the rear garden.

3 Bedroom Detached, Benson £525,000.00

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:22:10 GMT

A beautifully presented three bedroom detached chalet-style home set in the heart of Benson village, just a short, level walk from all local amenities.

This immaculate property occupies a generous corner plot in a quiet walkway location and benefits from its own nearby garage

3 Bedroom End Terrace, Benson £350,000.00

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:55:03 GMT

A three-bedroom end-of-terrace home situated at the top of a quiet cul-de-sac in a tucked-away position in Benson.
The property requires full modernisation throughout, offering an excellent opportunity for a buyer looking to put their own stamp on a home.

4 Bedroom Semi-Detached, Drayton St Leonard £550,000.00

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 04:56:07 GMT

This rendered four-bedroom semi-detached home occupies a generous corner plot in the village of Drayton St Leonard, enjoying a lovely outlook over a park and parkland to the front.

3 Bedroom Cottage, Dorchester-On-Thames £1,650.00

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:51:57 GMT

Located in a backwater location in this popular village overlooking allotments this charming three bedroom cottage is available on a 12 month let, unfurnished. Managed by Winterbrook in Wallingford. Check out the virtual tour.

2 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £400,000.00

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:19:46 GMT

Tucked away in a peaceful setting well back from the main road, this unique two (double) bedroom detached character property enjoys a truly unique backdrop and a southerly facing garden.

1 Bedroom House, Cholsey £1,250.00

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:37:04 GMT

A `Mews style` house set in a courtyard. Ratcliffe Court is on the edge of Cholsey Meadows near the `Ox Shed` cafe. This property is modern, light and airy with a courtyard garden and a parking area at the font with views over communal gardens. Check out our online video.

3 Bedroom Cottage, South Stoke £1,400.00

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:39:02 GMT

A charming three bedroom railway cottage which has been sympathetically extended and situated within the desirable village of South Stoke. Offered for rental in very good condition throughout with views of open countryside.

3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow, Shillingford £630,000.00

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:01:06 GMT

Set on a generous corner plot (0.174 acre) located at the end of a cul-de-sac in Shillingford/Warborough borders. This property really does enjoy a very private feel tucked away with further scope to extend if desired.

4 Bedroom Bungalow, North Stoke £995,000.00

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:10:22 GMT

An individual well- presented detached bungalow, discreetly positioned down a private no-through lane in the sought-after village of North Stoke.

3 Bedroom Detached, Wallingford £499,950.00

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:42:51 GMT

Situated in the heart of Wallingford, this detached family home enjoys a highly desirable setting backing directly onto the Kinecroft, Parking for two vehicles off road. No Onward chain

4 Bedroom House, Wallingford £2,950.00

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:15:34 GMT

Located in the High Street of the historic market town of Wallingford, this 17th century exceptional character property has been thoughtfully renovated to a high standard throughout, offering just under 2,500 sq ft of beautifully presented accommodation arranged over three floors.

3 Bedroom Cottage, Wallingford £500,000.00

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:09:42 GMT

A character period home originally dating back to the 17th century and conveniently situated in the heart of this desirable riverside market town. Opposite the Castle Gardens. The property with accommodation over 1500 sq ft retains much of its original charm and character.

2 Bedroom House, Didcot £1,400.00

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 03:44:29 GMT

A modern two bedroom end of terrace property recently redecorated throughout. Situated in this convenient, quiet location within a short stroll to the town with the Orchard Shopping centre and Didcot Parkway is easily accessible. Would suit a professional couple looking for good transport links.

Lesters Accreditation With The NALS

Fri, 09 Jan 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are accredited by the National Approved Letting Scheme. The NALS is an industry-wide accreditation scheme which offers peace of mind to landlords and tenants through the knowledge that the firm they are dealing with provides defined levels of customer service and has the necessary insurances to protect their clients` money. Amelia Jaquest - Lettings Manager comments - ` We are determined that landlords and tenants should receive a good service from their agent `. The NALS is an insurance policy for consumers in the private rented sector. Lesters are already members of the National Association of Estate Agents with their Client Money protection scheme.

Floor Plans On Property Details

Wed, 14 Jan 2004 12:00:00 GMT

In 2004 Lesters are providing digital floor plans on all their in-house property brochures. Lesters are pleased to announce this feature to enhance their property brochures. In conjunction with IMS Communications of Twyford all our brochures will have high quality digital plans produced as an inclusive part of our service to our Clients. Julian Walley - Partner comments `This is a result of customer demand during 2003 we asked our clients what could we do to provide a better service and this feature was the favourite with customers and clients alike`. For any further information please contact the office.

Lesters Lettings & Property Management

Wed, 10 Mar 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Due to a busy start to the year Lesters are looking for more quality properties for their portfolio. Dealing with the principle relocation agents and companies in the area we have let a high number of properties in the middle to upper price ranges in the South Oxfordshire area. Amelia Jaquest - Lettings Manager quotes ` We have been very pleased with the amount of good quality tenants registering on our database so far this year, alot of our landlords have been surprised at the interest shown in their properties this year`. If you are considering renting your property then please contact: Julian Walley - Partner at the Wallingford Office on 01491 824000. All our properties are managed locally.

Lesters Didcot Lettings & Property Management

Sat, 22 May 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are pleased to announce a further expansion into the Didcot market. We are seeking quality properties particularly on the Ladygrove estate in Didcot. All properties will be managed locally with regular advertising in the local press and the usual comprehensive service including advertising through Primelocation.com and our associated London Office. Lesters Property Management Department is headed by Manager Amelia Jaquest. Our new Didcot telephone number is 01235 811881. If you require any further information on our services please do not hesitate to contact us.

Lesters Estate Agents Office Refit

Mon, 05 Jul 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are pleased to announce that all there offices are now fully air conditioned for the comfort of our clients. Drew Conroy a senior negotiator added `during the busy summer months its imperative that our clients can feel comfortable whilst in our offices`. Since the introduction of air conditioning the building has been completely redecorated with new facias in the companies new livery.

London Property Exhibition

Tue, 03 Aug 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Partner of Lesters Julian Walley explains: 'If you're serious about selling or renting your home, you simply cannot afford to miss out on this opportunity!'

The presentation, scheduled for 17th September, is to be held at the firm's Mayfair Office at 121 Park Lane, Mayfair just down from Marble Arch

Lesters staff will be presenting the firm's full portfolio of property for sale and to let, to a varied and motivated audience starting their search in the nations capital.

Julian continues: 'A recent survey showed a staggering 45% of our buyers were living or working in London - that's a statistic you simply cannot ignore. And that's where our London Property Exhibition comes in.'

The presentation receives enormous exposure in the lead-up to the event, including extensive advertising and mailshotting.

'We would be very pleased to add some more homes on to our presentation. Anyone interested in gaining this superb additional coverage for their property can be a part of it…simply instruct Lesters to market your property and we'll look after the rest.'

This offer is open to property on the market for sale or to rent through Lesters.

Contact Lesters today to give your property the best possible head-start in the marketplace and this is an ideal opportunity to present your property to the busy London market with potential buyers starting their search from the capital and looking to commute from the nearby Cholsey or Didcot stations.

Telephone 01491 824000.

London Exhibition - Shaping Up To Be A Great Success

Tue, 31 Aug 2004 12:00:00 GMT

London Property Presentation shaping-up to be huge success.

With less than a month to go the next London Property Presentation by estate agents Lesters, the event is 'shaping-up to be an enormous success', according to James Gesner M.N.A.E.A Partner at the firm.

'This really is an excellent opportunity for sellers to make sure that every aspect has been used has been used in fully promoting their property,' says James.

The presentation is to be held at the firm's Mayfair Office just off Marble Arch in London, on 17 September 2004.

Any would-be sellers or landlords interested in knowing more about the event should contact Lesters as soon as possible. There is no cost to include your home in the presentation, and it applies to properties being handled by Lesters on a sole, multiple and joint agency arrangements.

Lesters – Tel: 01491 824000.

The Next London Property Exhibition

Mon, 18 Oct 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Julian Walley, partner with Lesters, is delighted to report the success of the firm's Property Presentation held at their Mayfair Office on 17 September.

Significant advertising and mailshotting was carried out in the lead-up to the event, and serious interest in many properties was shown during the event.

The firm now intend to make the event a regular fixture in their calendar, with plans already underway for an `Oxfordshire` exhibition including a number leading Independent agents in the area. This event is to be held on the 28/29th January 2005.

Anyone interested in having their property included in this show should contact Julian Walley at Lesters on 01491 824000.

October Property News

Wed, 20 Oct 2004 12:00:00 GMT

This month`s Property News.

Click here to view our October Property Newsletter.

Lesters Drawing Competition For Local Schools

Tue, 02 Nov 2004 12:00:00 GMT

2004 Drawing Competition for local schools.

November`s Property News

Fri, 12 Nov 2004 12:00:00 GMT

This month`s Property News.

Click here to view our November Property Newsletter.

Lesters Victorian Evening - 2 December 2005

Thu, 18 Nov 2004 12:00:00 GMT

As usual Lesters will be open on Wallingford's Victorian Evening. EVERYONE WELCOME

Until 9pm the office will be open for refreshments including mulled wine. The team will be on hand to give a warm welcome especially to client's past and present. The results of the Lesters School Drawing Competition chosen by the Mayor will be on display and all the usual entertainments for the children.

Oxfordshire Property Exhibition

Tue, 14 Dec 2004 12:00:00 GMT

Following on the success of last years exhibition Lesters present ` The Oxfordshire Property Exhibition`.

During January 2005 a number of leading Independent agents in Oxfordshire will be actively promoting the exhibition to be held on the weekend of the 28 and 29th January at the firm's Mayfair Office at 121 Park Lane just down from Marble Arch.

Lesters staff will be presenting the firm's full portfolio of property for sale and to let, to a varied and motivated audience starting their search in the nations capital.

Julian continues: 'A recent survey showed a staggering 45% of our buyers were living or working in London - that's a statistic you simply cannot ignore. And that's where our London Property Exhibition comes in.

Julian Walley explains: The exhibition is free to all people who are selling their properties with us. 'If you're serious about selling or renting your home in the new year, you simply cannot afford to miss out on this opportunity!'

Local Schools Drawing Competition - A Great Success

Wed, 15 Dec 2004 12:00:00 GMT

The partners at Lesters would like to thank all the local schools who took part in this years `Drawing Competition` the response was overwhelming and the Mayor had a difficult job picking the eventual winners as the standard was so good. This culminated in a hectic Victorian Evening with the results on display in our office. Once again congratulations to the winners Pip Holland and Hussein Ramadani who win £500 for St Johns School and to the runners up Megan Burtenshaw from Crowmarsh School, Emily Streets from St Johns School and the highly commended pictures from Cranford House.

Time Running Out To Take Part In The London Exhibition!

Sat, 08 Jan 2005 12:00:00 GMT

Time is running out to take part in our Oxfordshire property Exhibition. Partner at Lesters James Gesner comments: `Last years event was hugely successful with a great deal of interest shown in the event` Extensive advertising and mailshotting will be carried out prior to the event. This is an excellent opportunity to expose your property to the lucrative London and International markets. The event is on the weekend Friday and Saturday the 28th and 29th of January at our associated office at 121 Park Lane, Mayfair just down from Marble Arch at the top of Oxford Street. The event is free to enter to anyone who is on the market with Lesters on a sole or multi-agency basis.

Lesters Join Rightmove

Fri, 25 Feb 2005 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are now advertising their portfolio of properties on Rightmove.co.uk. Branch partner James Gesner states ` In addition to our extensive press advertising we have decided to advertise all our properties on the Rightmove site after a number of requests from our clients` Lesters also advertise their properties on fish4homes.co.uk, property-platform.com and a number of other leading national property portals.

Lesters London Property Exhibition

Fri, 11 Mar 2005 12:00:00 GMT

If you're serious about selling your home, this is an excellent opportunity!'

The presentation, scheduled for 15th April, is to be held at the firm's Mayfair Office at 121 Park Lane, Mayfair just down from Marble Arch

Lesters staff will be presenting the firm's full portfolio of property for sale and to let, to a varied and motivated audience starting their search in the nations capital.

James Gesner Partner at Lesters states 'We would be very pleased to add some more homes on to our presentation. Anyone interested in gaining this superb additional coverage for their property can be a part of it…simply instruct Lesters to market your property and we'll look after the rest.'

This offer is open to property on the market for sale or to rent through Lesters.

Contact Lesters today to give your property the best possible head-start in the marketplace and this is an ideal opportunity to present your property to the busy London market with potential buyers starting their search from the capital and looking to commute from the nearby Cholsey or Didcot stations.

Telephone 01491 824000.

Open Day For Town Centre Property

Tue, 05 Jul 2005 12:00:00 GMT

WOOD STREET, WALLINGFORD - PRICE ON APPLICATION A grade two listed cottage in the centre of Wallingford and in the heart of the conservation area. The property has a wealth of character with alot of the original features. The property is in need of some modernisation throughout and a surveyors report is available on request. Open day held Saturday 16 July between 12and 2pm where a representative from Lesters will be on hand to answer any questions or queries. For further information please contact Julian Walley at Lesters on 01491 824000

Rentals & Property Management Department Having A Busy Time!

Wed, 26 Oct 2005 12:00:00 GMT

According to local independent estate & letting agents Lesters, demand for rental property in and around Wallingford is currently at record levels.

'Many first time buyers are choosing to go for the more flexible option of renting at the moment, realising that the property market is not going to leave them behind,' says Donna Gordon, Lettings Manager at Lesters.

'Many are seeing rental property as a good way of keeping their options open, perhaps giving themselves a six or twelve month period to find the homes of their dreams to buy,' she says.

With the stability of property prices, Lesters have seen a marked upturn in the numbers of people renting homes.

It is however vitally important people chose an agent with professional accreditation for that peace of mind. Lesters Property Management are members of both The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS).

Donna continues: 'Unaccredited agents still present a potential problem to landlords and tenants who are vulnerable to low levels of service, untrained staff and very little government regulation.

Lesters Join The Office Of Fair Trading’s Approved Scheme

Wed, 23 Nov 2005 12:00:00 GMT

On 1 September 2005, the Office of Fair Trading awarded their approval to the OCEA Code of Practice under the Office of Fair Trading's Consumer Codes Approval Scheme.

Julian Walley M.N.A.E.A Partner at the Wallingford office states 'Lesters fully support the OCEA code of practice in conjunction with the added security of the Office of Fair Trading. The OFT is a well recognised and respected organisation. This is a big step forward for the homebuyers and sellers alike as it means that member agents will have to adhere to a strict Code of Practice'

The OFT's aim is simple it is responsible for making markets work well for consumers. They achieve this by promoting and protecting consumer interests throughout the UK, while ensuring that businesses are fair and competitive.

Lesters are also active members of The National Assocation of Esate Agents and the National Approved Letting scheme.

Straight Talking Estate Agent Drops Their `Lock In` Period.

Sun, 11 Dec 2005 12:00:00 GMT

Oxfordshire Estate Agent Lesters, have taken the lead in the region's property market by dropping the time clause from its agency agreements with house sellers. The clause that states the minimum period of time you must leave your business with an agent can often cause house sellers serious dilemmas and stress. Lesters realise that moving house is stressful enough, so it has removed that clause from its terms of business which are endorsed by the National Association of Estate Agents.

James Gesner M.N.A.E.A partner at the Wallingford office explains, 'If you sign an agreement which ties you to one estate agency for a period of up to six months, what happens if the agent fails to provide the service they promised? Nothing, you're stuck with them for the entire period! House sellers cannot afford the time, expense and stress of such a dilemma. 'Most house sellers don't read the terms and conditions and spot restrictive clauses, either because they are pressured by an agent stood on their doorstep, or because agreements are just too complicated'. At Lesters our terms of business are straight forward simple to understand, endorsed by the National Association of Estate Agents and contain no minimum period of time.

James continues 'This is a simple business that just requires hard work and professionalism to achieve results. Any firm not willing to operate on simple terms of business clearly isn't confident in their own ability to achieve results and ultimately a satisfied customer. We are an established local business, staffed by a team of local hand-picked, highly experienced estate agents who understand how to succeed in today's market.'

`Lesters offer open and honest advice from day one. We keep our clients informed with genuine feedback, give advice on general market trends and explain what to do to in order to enhance the sale or their property. All of that without the need to tie our clients into unfair agreements that can cause unnecessary anxiety and stress.`

Lesters are proactive members of the National Association of Estate Agents and The Ombudsman of Estate Agents' with the full endorsement of the Office of Fair Trading. Their office's are at 23 St. Martins Street, Wallingford OX10 0AL, or telephone 01491 824000.

Lesters Introduce `Interactive Window Displays`

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 12:00:00 GMT

Our office at 23 St Martin's Street, Wallingford is the first in the area to use Inter-active Video Displays illustrating all our images on all our properties 24 hours a day!

Three large screens have been installed showing all our client's properties to the best possible standard. Lesters also produce very high quality particulars for all our clients' properties, including digitally produced floorplans, detailed maps and multiple images on all our brochures.

Julian Walley M.N.A.E.A - Partner at the Wallingford office comments. `We have listened to what our customers have requested over recent years and our questionnaires have revealed these video presentations were of great interest.` Julian continues ` In conjunction with our comprehensive website, floorplans and high quality brochures these video presentations really are `the icing on the cake`.

If you want any further information on our unique service or want an up to date `valuation` on your home please call us or come and see us at to our busy St Martins Street office where you will receive a warm welcome.

Chance To Purchase Three Cottages In A Row, Between Henley And Wallingford

Thu, 06 Apr 2006 12:00:00 GMT

Investment opportunity a terrace of three Individual three bedroom properties with views over open farmland built in 2001 with potential rental income of £2700 per month. The properties have three bedrooms fitted modern kitchens, downstairs cloakrooms and upstairs bathrooms. There is parking for 2 vehicles with each property to the side with front and rear gardens and extensive views over open farmland. Ideal situation between Henley and Wallingford with commuting via the M40 and M4 or Cholsey train station circa 5 miles traveling into London Paddington. Open Days for viewings held on Saturday 22nd and Saturday 29th April. Contact Julian Walley for further information.

Lesters Support Keyna Children Centres

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are supporting `Kenya Children Centres`. These centres advance education, relieve poverty, sickness and distress among children in the country. If you are thinking of selling or letting your home we would be delighted to provide you a free up to date valuation and provide you with further information about `Kenya Children Centres` (Charity (No 1103868) our charity challenge. Lesters are donating £50 for every property taken on the market which is sold or let until July 2007. The trustees of the charity undertake that every penny raised will go straight to the project.

Lesters Win Top National Award

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 12:00:00 GMT

Leading Wallingford agents Lesters have got plenty to celebrate after winning a top industry award.

Against stiff competition from all over the country the company was named Highly Commended in the Single Office Category at the prestigious Guild of Professional Estate Agents National Awards, held in Cambridge earlier this month.

Presented annually, the awards are designed to celebrate all that is best in independent estate agency.

On receiving the award from Guild Director Bill McClintock, a delighted Julian Walley of Lesters said: 'This award is the finest possible tribute to all the time and effort everyone has put in over the last 12 months to maintain the highest standards of customer service and professionalism.'

With some 700 hand-picked members throughout the country, the Guild is the UK's foremost network of independent estate agents, with an established reputation for professional excellence. Lesters have represented the Guild in Wallingford for the last six years.

In congratulating them on their award, Malcolm Lindley, Managing Director of the Guild, said, 'Everyone at Lesters can be justly proud of their superb achievement. It's through the energy, enthusiasm and commitment shown by member firms like them that the Guild can justifiably claim to represent independent estate agency at its very best.'

Lesters Are Top Selling Agent

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 12:00:00 GMT

Wallingford and the surrounding countryside is one of the most desirable areas to live in Oxfordshire. Therefore it is no surprise that properties are very popular – and not just with residents. Estate agents are here in even greater numbers too. In fact, in a recent audit carried out by For Sale Sign Analysis Limited it was discovered that there were no less than 14, making the South Oxfordshire patch one of the most competitive areas in the country per head of population.

So, who emerged from the crowd to take top spot? None other than local property specialists, Lesters Estate Agents. The findings by For Sale Sign Analysis Limited, an independent company who provide data to estate agents throughout the UK, was based on an accurate count of the ‘For Sale' and ‘Sold' signs in Wallingford and surrounding villages. The number of boards seen in an area is a major indicator of how successfully an estate agent is operating.

It turns out that Lesters Estate Agents took 28.9% share of the Sold boards, which was nearly twice the number of the estate agent in second place. Interestingly Lesters had more SOLD boards than 10 of the 14 agents in the area combined.

They say that facts speak for themselves, but they also say a lot about why a particular company is so successful. Lesters Estate Agents is a locally-run firm who have built up an unrivalled knowledge of the area. Unlike most estate agents they have concentrated on one area so that they really do know and understand the local property scene.

They pride themselves on being client focused – and believe that being completely honest with sellers and buyers alike is appreciated. By delivering for their clients – as the amount of ‘Sold' signs on local streets indicate – they gain a great deal of their business through referrals. And there is no more ringing endorsement than a referral.

The key seems to be the wealth of experience in the local area that Partners, Julian Walley and James Gesner have gathered over the years. Combined with their team, they have a wealth of knowledge combined with a genuine desire to help both sellers and buyers achieve stress-free moves. Naturally, the team is delighted at the findings of the audit. ‘The board audit just shows that our team is doing a superb job and that their efforts are being translated into more and more successful sales. We like lots of happy clients.'

It's difficult to escape the distinctive sale boards of Wallingford's leading Independent estate agent. But then again, a Lester's board is the sign of the times.

Paddocks Pre-School Event

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 12:00:00 GMT

On Saturday 16 December Father Christmas will be at Lesters Estate Agents, 23 St Martins Street. Everyone is welcome! There are a variety of events held throughout the day including face painting and a raffle. Lesters are supporting Paddocks Pre-School who are a local registered charity. Come along and join the fun! On the medieval evening on 7th December Lesters will be open as usual until 9pm, come in and join us for free drink and entertainment

A Big Thank You

Fri, 08 Dec 2006 12:00:00 GMT

What a hectic evening! It was really good to see so many people through the door last night on the medieval evening and hundreds of Lesters balloons around the town The drink finally ran at 9pm but it was great to see so many customers old and new and local people just coming in for a glass of mulled wine. We will have the result of the `Guess the house prices` competition posted shortly and the winner will receive a voucher for a meal for two at `Fornivivo` in town. A short reminder that Santa Claus will be here next Saturday all day when the office will be transformed into his grotto! With a range of activities including a raffle and face painting. A small donation of £2.00 to meet Santa includes a toy which has been generously provided by `Youngsters` in Wallingford. All monies received go to Paddocks Preschool in Wallingford a registered charity.

Hips Update

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 12:00:00 GMT

The Home Information packs will "go live" on 1st June 2007. Housing Minister Yvette Cooper has confirmed that the government still intends to launch the new home sellers` packs on the scheduled date. The National Association of Estate Agents, the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the Law Society and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors are all seeking to persuade the government to delay the implementation date. The government has proposed that from the launch date, properties will be able to be marketed without searches or leasehold documents for a six month transitional period, provided that a HIP provider states that those documents have been requested.

Ministers Push Home Sales Scheme

Tue, 03 Apr 2007 12:00:00 GMT

A government campaign to raise awareness of Home Information Packs has been launched. Home sellers in England and Wales will have to offer the packs, including documents such as surveys and local authority searches, from 1 June. Critics say the packs, which will cost about £400, are confused and flawed. The government are stating "This is in the interests of consumers and in the interests of the environment to have proper energy ratings on your home so you can cut your fuel bills and your carbon emissions, and also to have much clearer, earlier information in a way that promotes competition and brings some of those costs down as well." The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), said the policy was being "rushed through and the closer it gets to that June date, the more scared we are that there will be major problems." Earlier this month, a group including the Law Society and Council of Mortgage Lenders said ministers declined a meeting to discuss their concerns about the plan. The government believes HIPs will speed up the selling process and give buyers added protection. The Association of Home Information Pack Providers, which will represent firms providing HIPs, has reassured ministers that their introduction will be handled "effectively and efficiently".

Hips Looking Imminent For August Despite Opposition

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 12:00:00 GMT

The opposition motion in the House of Lords to abolish HIPs was passed this week. Commenting on this vote, Shadow Housing Minister Grant Shapps stated: `This is another embarrassing development for the Government as the fiasco over HIPs goes from bad to worse. There is still time for the Prime Minister to reconsider and we urge him to back away from pushing through this hugely unpopular and costly piece of bureaucracy. If Gordon Brown is serious about listening to Parliament then he will have to go away and seriously consider today`s vote.` With HIPs imminent despite opposition from the NAEA and RICS. We are able to provide up-to-date information on how it will affect you. Please contact one of the partners Julian Walley or James Gesner for more information.

Hips To Be Rolled Out On 3 Bed Properties

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 12:00:00 GMT

The Government has announced that Home Information Packs (HIPs), including Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), will be rolled out to include three bedroom properties from 10 September 2007. HIPs and EPCs are being introduced on a phased basis and already apply to properties with four or more bedrooms. The Government today confirmed they expect there to be sufficient energy assessors, nationally and regionally, to roll out to three bedroom homes next month, having taken into account the operation of HIPs in the market. EPCs will give house buyers energy ratings for homes for the first time, from A to G - similar to consumer friendly ratings for fridges. The controversial HIPs scheme was designed to help to cut costs for consumers by increasing transparency and competition in the home buying and selling process, although to date there is little evidence that the packs will ever actually deliver on this. For more information on HIPs and how Lesters are taking the `hassle` of organising the pack for you please contact us.

Lesters Sponsor Local Football Team

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Estate Agents have continued their support of local clubs, schools & organisations in the Wallingford and Didcot area and splashed out on a new kit for Harwell International Football Club. The club compete in the North Berks top flight Saturday league. Lesters wishes the lads the best of luck in the forthcoming fixtures. Anyone interested in a trial at the club should contact Tom Baptie on 07766114827

How Many Balloons Can A Lesters Mini Hold?

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Supporting local charity The Lesters mini`s will be in Wallingford Market Square on the 4th and 5th of December and outside the office on the 6th (medieval evening) when the office is open all evening welcoming everyone to come in and have a drink on us. Suggested donation of a £1, Lesters will double the donations received. Raffle results drawn on 10 December by the Mayor at Lesters office. For more information on Helen and Douglas House a registered charity providing professional care, support and friendship for children and young adults with life-shortening conditions and their families visit www.helenanddouglas.org.uk or call 01865 794749

Lesters Raise Over £400 For Helen & Douglas House Children’s Home

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:00 GMT

We are really pleased to announce that Lesters have raised over £400 for the local charity Helen & Douglas House. After a couple of days in Wallingford's town square and their open evening at their office on the Medieval evening Lesters are pleased to hand over the money raised to the locally based charity. Seen in the picture below is partner Julian Walley, local resident Sue Stone of Crowmarsh (winner of the Christmas hamper) and Vanessa from Helen & Douglas house.

Julian Walley partner at the local firm would like to thank all the people of Wallingford for putting their donations to what I am sure we all agree is a worthy cause so close to Christmas, guessing the balloons in the Lesters mini and coming in our office on the medieval shopping evening which was as busy as always!

We would like to wish all clients, past and present and the local people of Wallingford and the surrounding area a Happy Christmas and a prosperous new year!

Interest Rates Cut To 5.25%

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:00:00 GMT

The Bank of England`s rate-setting committee has cut interest rates to 5.25% from 5.5% Many banks have already said they will pass on the cut. Halifax, Nationwide, Abbey, NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland have announced they will reduce their standard variable rates. Others had said in advance of the announcement that they would pass on the rate cut in full. These include Lloyds TSB and its Cheltenham & Gloucester unit, Barclays` mortgage arm the Woolwich, HSBC and First Direct. Many of them will not be cutting their rates for existing borrowers until 1 March, with HSBC not cutting until 7 March.

Lesters Career Opportunity

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters have a vacancy for a weekend Sales Negotiator working in our newly opened busy Didcot office. Previous experience not essential as full training will be given. A lively outgoing personality is essential and computer knowledge required! For more information about this exciting position within this friendly team call James Gesner on 01235 519888 or j.gesner@lestersonline.co.uk or just pop in!

Lesters Legendary Customer Service ‘moves In’ To Didcot

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters, the market leading independent Estate Agents, have recently opened their latest office in Didcot.

Established in 1992, Lesters is a fully independent firm, and is still managed by the Senior Partners, James Gesner and Julian Walley. Having spent many years receiving rave reviews from their clients in Wallingford, James & Julian always had aspirations to expand their business. Following extensive market research, they decided that Didcot should be the home of their latest office.

`We identified very quickly that the people of Didcot deserved an Estate Agent that could offer absolutely first-class customer service` says Senior Partner, James Gesner. `Every town offers a choice of Estate Agents, but in Didcot we felt that we could offer something different.

In a more challenging market, Lesters are acutely aware of the need for honest, realistic advice to ensure that every client's move is as straightforward as possible. James continues `When a client invites Lesters to value their property, they should quite rightly expect to hear the truth. In every case, we fully research our advice, and offer evidence of similar properties to justify our recommendations. In addition, every property valuation that we carry out is attended by one of the Senior Partners.`

The property market is constantly changing, and Estate Agents have to adapt to the market. James adds `Our client's will receive all the advice they need, from an honest and realistic valuation, through no-nonsense advice about Home Information Packs, pro-active high profile marketing of their property, detailed customer feedback and ongoing advice, first–class after sales updates, and a Direct Line telephone number for their personal contact.`

Senior Partner, Julian Walley is equally passionate about property. He comments `We receive so many positive comments and messages of thanks from our clients that we must be doing something right. In these days of overseas call centres, automated telephone answering systems, and generally poor levels of service throughout our day to day lives, it is so pleasing to be recognised by our clients as a leader in our field.`

Julian continues `We have a simple philosophy at Lesters, which is to treat our clients and customers as we wish to be treated.`

To experience for yourself the Lesters difference, call into our office along Lower Broadway (there's even parking spaces right outside), or give us a call on 01235 519888.

Lesters Join Findaproperty.Com

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters in Wallingford and Didcot have joined findaproperty.com. Julian Walley, senior partner with the firm comments: `with the number of people increasingly starting their search for property on the web it is imperative that your agent show your property on ALL the major property portals`. Lesters currently advertsise all their portfolio on www.lestersonline.co.uk, www.primelocation.com, www.propertyplatform.com, www.rightmove.co.uk and www.countrylife.co.uk. The findaproperty.com is one of the major sites and whilst alot of agents only rely on rightmove.co.uk this site is becoming a major rival and a property portal that it is imperative to show your property on. Julian also comments `we have already had interest and enquiries surpassing the other sites that we use and the early signs are extremely encouraging`.

Lettings Market Extremely Bouyant!

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Property Management Department have seen a huge increase in enquires from potential tenants registering on our mailing list. Debbie Walley at the firms Wallingford`s office comments ` we have a portfolio of about 280 properties at the moment and we just cannot meet the demand for properties at the moment. In the last week we have successfully let 12 properties to suitable tenants and new potential tenants are registering on a daily basis at both offices` If you are considering renting your property please call our Wallingford office on 01491824000 or Didcot on 01235519888. We offer a comprehensive, competitive service tailored to the individual client`s needs.

Lesters Reduce Their Carbon Footprint In 2010

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Sales & Lettings are pleased to announce details of their new ‘Environmentally Aware' initiative, which applies to all new clients of the firm from the New Year until the end of 2010.

Working alongside the local `Northmoor Trust` charity, Lesters will dedicate one new tree, planted locally, on completion of the sale or letting of every new property instruction received by the firm in 2010. This important initiative will run throughout the year, and each new client will receive a personal certificate from the Northmoor Trust upon completion, verifying their contribution by selling or letting their property with Lesters.

Senior Partner with the firm, Julian Walley, commented `We really are a truly local business. The Partners and staff all live locally, and we are keen to contribute in a positive way to our local community. By committing our charitable resources for 2010 to this project, we are supporting the efforts of this local charity, and helping to reduce the carbon footprint of our business.`

This exciting promotion will run throughout 2010 at the firm's offices in Wallingford and Didcot. Full details of the scheme are available on request.

For further information, please contact Lesters Wallingford office on 01491 824000 or Didcot office on 01235 519888.

Hips Suspended

Thu, 20 May 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The coalition government has suspended the use of Home Information Packs (HIPs) by home sellers. HIPs were introduced in 2007 in England and Wales. The aim was to speed up the house selling process by obliging sellers to provide much of the required conveyancing information when properties are first put up for sale. The packs are paid for by sellers and contain property information, title deeds, and local searches. `Today the new government is ensuring that home information packs are history," said Housing Minister Grant Shapps. "By suspending home information packs today, it means that home sellers will be able to get on with marketing their home without having to shell out hundreds of pounds up front. Branch Partner Julian Walley commented, `Our company has always been committed to a non-profit HIP solution leading the local market with a low cost HIP where other agents have relied on making a profit when offering this service to their clients` As local National Association of Estate Agent members we are delighted that the Government has been listening to our concerns about the potential effect on the market. It will still be a requirement to obtain an EPC and this should be commissioned before a property is marketed and we continue a low cost solution to our clients.

With Lesters You Are In Safe Hands!

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Senior partner James Gesner let in a bit of a howler at the weekend whilst playing for the local team Crowmarsh. James commented `It just came out of nowhere and got an unlucky deflection it must be every keepers worst nightmare a nutmeg with the local cameraman at hand`. To the amusement of all his friends and colleagues at work James stated `at least in my company Lesters you are in safe hands as one of the areas leading agents and members of NAEA, ARLA and the Guild we don`t make silly mistakes when it comes to selling or renting your home!` James also manages the local team Brightwell cum Sotwell under tens football club.

Wallingford Property Professional Recognised For Training Excellence

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

A Wallingford based estate agent has secured a nationally recognised industry qualification, and has joined the growing number of qualified agents across the UK to do so.

David Rayfield of Lesters has passed the National Federation of Property Professionals (NFOPP) Technical Award in the Sale of Residential Property, the industry standard for all agents working in this area. It is the required qualification for entry to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

David who after graduating with a degree in Business and Property returned to the area and has been working as an estate agent in Wallingford for two and a half years. As the youngest member of the Wallingford team at the ripe old age of twenty three, his positive outlook and enthusiasm for the Wallingford market is a breath of fresh air.
He said: `I decided to start my studies because of Julian and James' (The Directors) encouragement for us as members of staff to further ourselves within the industry, and I am thrilled to have secured the Technical Award`

`For me, it is evidence of our professionalism and shows our clients that they are dealing with someone who is knowledgeable and that they can trust us to do a good job.`

The NAEA operates alongside three of the property sector's other leading professional bodies: The Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA), the National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers (NAVA), and the Institution of Commercial & Business Agents (ICBA).

The NFOPP Awarding body is accredited by the governments Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (OFQUAL) and offers nationally recognised qualifications across all disciplines in the property sector.

Ruth Lilley, Head of Membership and Professional Development explains:

`The Technical Award is designed to offer a flexible, cost effective route for agents for those seeking to join the profession to improve their knowledge and gain a well-respected, nationally recognised professional qualification,`I heartily congratulate David on his achievement, which represents a commitment not only to developing his career, but also the high industry standards we seek as a body to promote

Mortgage Approvals In Slight Rise, Says Bank Of England

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Approvals for home loans - notably for people remortgaging their properties - picked up slightly in November, Bank of England figures show. The number of mortgages approved for house purchases stood at 48,019 in November, a marginal rise on the previous month. Approvals for remortgaging were up by nearly 4,000 on the previous month to 34,262 in November. Partner at the Didcot Office Matthew Nash commented `as the level of enquiries seem to have increased especially with First Time buyers after the Christmas period it`s an encouraging start to 2011.

Lesters Warmly Welcome All Dog Owners

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Meet Sally a lovely 16 week year old Labrador who visited our Wallingford Office this week with one of our clients. With wooden flooring in each office and local staff who are all avid dog owners we warmly welcome dogs (and their owners!) into both our High Street offices.

We understand that little extra about selling houses for our dog owning clients. You can be sure of a warm welcome from any of our valuers who are all dog owners and more importantly we realise how important it is to deal with our furry friends when selling your home with those strangers coming in and out!

So please come in for a warm welcome canine friend and all and we offer a free ‘dog wash' from one of our favourite customers at the ‘Pooch Mobile' if you sell or rent your property with us during January and February 2011.

Back A Winner With Lesters

Wed, 18 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters were pleased to accept the opportunity to sponsor a recent race meeting at Oxford Greyhound Stadium, and all the staff went along to support the event. Lesters Senior Partner, James Gesner, is a Greyhound owner himself and a keen follower of the sport. James commented "Being offered this sponsorship opportunity was great news for Lesters. We all enjoy the sport, and we all enjoy a good night out, so it made perfect sense." James` dog was not running at the meeting, so he was pleased to present the Winner`s trophy to Pawsey`s Pride.

Mortgage Approvals Surge In June

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Purchase approvals rose 6.7% in June, in part as lenders increased activity to meet planned half-year lending targets. Approvals on all property over £125,000 increased as those buying property over £125,000, typically on higher incomes, were able to secure mortgages. Purchase approvals with LTVs over 85% rose in June to 9.4%, up from 8.3% thanks to the wider availability of high LTV products (for comparison, this is still well down on 2008 when approvals with LTVs over 85% accounted for 20.2% of all approvals). Overall lending conditions remained static, with the average LTV steady at 60.4%, as a consequence of an increase in lower LTV lending to wealthier buyers, which offset the very slight increase in the uptake of high LTV products. On a regional basis, the South saw a greater increase in purchase approvals than the North. Approvals for house purchase in London increased 12.3% in June, and 6.9% in the South-East. By contrast, activity in the North was slower, particularly in Scotland where purchase approvals fell 1.4%, while activity was also relatively subdued in Cumbria and the North-East, where approvals increased by only 2.8%. Richard Sexton, business development director of e.surv said: `There has been a great deal of recent chatter about 95% LTV products hitting the market, but if you delve beyond the headline loan-to-value ratio it is clear criteria remain too restrictive for the majority of lower income buyers. With average rents now at £696 according to LSL, buying is undoubtedly the cheaper long term option, so there is greater incentive than ever for potential buyers to roll up their sleeves and piece together a deposit if they can.`

Do It Yourself, Build Your Own House!

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The government wants to double the number of people building their own homes. But is it wise to encourage the population to take up DIY house building? Programs like Grand Designs tap into the desire to build your dream home. Now the government - keen to raise the stubbornly low house building rate - wants to start "a self build revolution". Housing Minister Grant Shapps will later this week launch an action plan to double the number of self-build homes within a decade. In reality, few Britons follow the Grand Designs model. The show`s creator Kevin McCloud argues that Britons buy houses like baked beans - as generic products from a developer`s catalogue - rather than creating something that fits their lifestyle. But what exactly is self-build? The term is something of a misnomer, admits Ted Stevens, chairman of the National Self Build Association, which drew up the action plan. "It suggests you`re laying the bricks yourself. But the truth is that most self- builders hire an architect and do a bit of decorating themselves." Other countries are way ahead, he says. In Austria 80% of all homes are self-built. In Germany, France and Italy the figure is 60%. In the US and Australia it is over 40%. By contrast the figure for the UK is about 10%

Buying Now Cheaper Than Renting Across 90% Of Britian

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Falling house prices and increasing rental demand has made it cheaper to buy a property than to rent one in 45 of the 50 largest towns across Britain. The cost of renting is now 13% higher on average than the cost of owning, according to the latest research from property website Zoopla.co.uk. Milton Keynes topped the list of locations where buying beats renting with current rents more than 39% higher than the cost of owning, leaving renters on average £2,544 per year worse off. At the other end of the scale, renting remains more cost-effective in Aberdeen, where it costs 9% more to own compared to rent, leaving owners on average £936 worse off. In London, where the average asking price for 2-bedroom flats currently stands at £430,608, buying still beats renting by a significant margin. The average monthly rent in the capital today is 28% higher than the cost of ownership, leaving renters paying an extra £5,964 annually compared to owners. Senior Partner Julian Walley at the Wallingford Office commented: `With house prices down, low interest rates and sky high demand in the private rental sector, buying has never been a better option for those able to secure a mortgage. And with owners reducing prices further in order to achieve a sale before Christmas, there may well not have been a better time to buy in recent times.`

Lesters Expand Their Experienced Team At Wallingford

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters in Wallingford have appointed two new staff members, Dawn Oakley and Susan Ryan, who both live locally, to further enhance their experienced team.

Julian Walley, Senior Partner at the office commented ‘We are delighted to welcome Dawn and Susan to our friendly team and I am also pleased to add another 20 years experience to this great team in Wallingford.

Dawn grew up in Chilton, and still lives in the village today. A well known, long-term and highly experienced local Estate Agent since 1996, Dawn is a familiar face around Wallingford. Her first taste of the property industry was as a Property Manager in the United States in the early 1990's, and once she returned to the UK, Dawn joined one of the local agents as a Sales Negotiator, staying with the same firm until deciding to join Lesters in 2011. With a keen interest in the outdoors, Dawn spends her spare time looking after her two dogs and horses, along with her retired Jockey husband.

Susan grew up in East Hagbourne, and has lived in Wallingford, Chilton, Didcot and now Upton. As such, she has an excellent knowledge of the area. Since leaving Abingdon College in 1988 Susan's career has been committed to Customer Service, focussed on meeting and exceeding client expectations. A key part of Susan's role at Lesters is to show potential buyers around our client's properties. Her local knowledge and Customer Service skills make her the ideal viewing guide. In her spare time, Susan is a keen jewellery maker, and can often be found in her garden shed hammering, soldering and pondering new creations.

Embracing The Technological Revolution

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are leading the way in the local property market, by utilising QR codes in their window displays.

You may have seen these square, almost pixellated images recently appearing on signs, buses, business cards, in magazines and shop windows across the UK - and even on TV cooking programmes. So what are they, and how can they help to create additional interest in your property? In simple terms, they turn an old-fashioned window display into an interactive gateway for accessing the full property details, on a smart-phone, immediately. Scan the one here to see this article on your smart-phone.

A QR code is a specific matrix barcode that is readable by dedicated readers and camera Smartphones (Blackberry, Android, HTC, iPhone etc) that is already proving an invaluable marketing tool for the housing market. Created by Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave in 1994, the code itself consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background which when photographed downloads relevant data instantly to the device such as contact details, URL's and texts.

Today, QR codes are the fastest growing type of barcodes in the UK, as a result of the rapid growth of iPhones and similar mobile devices. As a 2010 strategic report confirms, Smartphone sales have risen rapidly since 2009 and are expected to reach 1 billion users by 2013. The software required to read the QR code can easily be downloaded by the smartphone user for free from a number of locations, including the Apple store.

Property Regains Favour As Demand For Income Continues

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The property market has experienced some significant highs and lows since 2008 but is now steadily regaining favour among investors as property-focused investment companies are proving a source of much sought after income. Here, the Association of Investment Companies reveals the findings of its survey of property managers` views on the outlook for the sector... Positive returns The increasing attraction of property for investors can be seen in the discount movement from 32% at the end of September 2008 to 6.5% at the end of September 2011 for the Property Direct - UK sector. Income is a strong pull for this sector with yields currently averaging 6.3% but returns have been positive too, up 23% over the last three years to the end of September 2011 compared to the average investment company increase of 18%. Jason Baggaley, Manager, Standard Life Investments Property Income, said: "Despite heightened volatility and unprecedented uncertainty resulting from the ongoing euro zone problems, UK Commercial Real Estate continues to be one of the few asset classes to provide reasonable positive returns over the year to date. Richard Kirby, Manager, F&C Commercial Property Trust said: "The property market has proved remarkably resilient in the face of slow domestic economic growth, fiscal austerity, a stalling of economic recovery overseas and the European crisis. There has been two years of sustained growth following a severe downturn. The initial sharp bounce-back, has been replaced by a year when performance has been largely driven by income. In September 2011, the annual total return was 8.7%, of which 6.9% was attributable to income. Although the long term outlook for property is positive, investors must be prepared to weather any storms which may result from recent volatility. Despite some softening in the prices for poorer quality stock, reasonable positive total returns are expected over the next few years for investors as yields compensate for any modest capital declines." Julian Walley M.N.A.E.A. M.A.R.L.A Senior Manger at the Wallingford Office comments: Property is still a reliable source of income. Higher personal taxation and reduced pension contributions as well as an all-time low interest rates have contributed to the growing importance of income from property to private investors

Lesters Support Didcot Town Football Club

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night Neil Ruddock ex Liverpool defender hosted an entertaining evening at the Didcot Town Social club. As a keen supporter of the club James Gesner and a table of twelve attended the event helping raise funds for our local club.
As a keen supporter and indeed coach of a local boys team Senior Partner at the Didcot office James commented: ‘We a had a great evening as usual the folk of Didcot enjoyed a entertaining evening and all to support our local team'

Lesters employ local people and actively support a number of local schools and charities in the area and we are always keen to help in anyway including promoting any events, please contact James at j.gesner@lestersonline.co.uk

Lesters Window Display In The 1950`s

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

This picture dates back to August 1950 and was sent in by one of our clients recently. Denise Twiss at our Wallingford Office commented: It was of her father cleaning the windows of her Grandfather`s house dating back to the 4 August 1950, over sixty years ago. It is now of course our Town and Country window display complemented by modern back lit LED displays and property details with QR codes. How times change! However the window on this lovely Grade Two listed building is still cleaned regularly to this day, but has a very different use of course displaying some of the area`s finest properties.

Lesters Support Cage

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

We need your support to stop a huge gravel pit between Wallingford and Wallingford and Cholsey over the next 25 years. Branch Partner and local Wallingford resident Julian Walley commented: I have been inundated with calls from anxious members of the local community and clients both past and present understandably concerned over these proposals. Please go to http://www.cage gravel.org.uk and find out how these proposals may affect you. Oxfordshire County Council plans to site a new gravel pit to extract five million tonnes of sand and gravel on land between Wallingford and Cholsey, and then backfill it with waste. CAGE (Communities Against Gravel Extraction) has been set up to fight these plans that will severely damage the countryside and affect the lives of the 10,000 people who live in these two communities. Wallingford and Cholsey are separated by just under a mile of arable and grazing farmland, hedges and trees. It is a peaceful and largely undisturbed area, supporting an amazingly wide variety of bird species and wildlife. The mining of sand and gravel will mean the loss of this natural landscape forever and the well-trodden footpaths, including the Agatha Christie Trail from Winterbrook to Cholsey Church, will be ruined. The Wallingford Road is also an important thoroughfare for many commuters traveling daily to Oxford, Reading and London from Cholsey station, and others going the other way to school, work or shopping trips in Wallingford. Apart from wrecking the scenery, the extraction of gravel and heavy lorry traffic will bring danger, noise and dirt for all the cars, pedestrians and cyclists. Oxfordshire County Council is holding a public consultation between 5th September and 31st October. We believe there are more appropriate places to site new gravel pits and that this piece of countryside should be protected for the well being of the two communities and posterity.

How To Choose A Good Letting Agent

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Surprisingly not all estate agents are currently required to meet standards of compliance within the industry. This is particularly worrying to potential tenants and landlords who are unaware, unprotected and inexperienced in this often confusing market.

As a Member of The Guild of Professional Estate Agents, Lesters offer trust and confidence to tenants and landlords in a market that isn't regulated and where complaints are strongly on the increase. The Guild currently has approximately 80% of its members operating in lettings, which is a very lucrative area in the property industry right now, with the number of lettings agents in the UK expanding rapidly over the past three years due to a decline in property sales.

With rental properties in short supply it can be all too easy for an eager tenant to ‘snap up a bargain' and not worry too much about the record of the agent and landlord. Yet the Property Ombudsman recently reported that the number of claims involving lettings disputes has risen sharply. According to its 2011 Interim Report (1st Jan – 31st Aug) complaints against lettings agents (both members and non-members) totalled 5142, up 13% from 4,644 over the same period in 2010. Shelter has also reported complaints against rogue landlords increasing by almost a quarter in the past year rising from 70,813 to 86,628.

The rapid expansion in the number of lettings agents in the UK, over the past three years, is partly due to a decline in the volume of residential sales compared to the highs of 2007. This has led to many traditional estate agents expanding their offerings, and also to a rapid growth in tenants as the population grows, people moving around to find employment, and mortgages proving more difficult to secure. For many people, renting is currently the only realistic option.

This trend is expected to continue well into the future with the number of UK residents forecast to hit 70 million by 2029 according to the Office Of National Statistics, As a result, rents in real terms are rising across the UK, but especially in London and The South East. Many landlords can now effectively pick and choose their tenants from multiple applicants e.g. by the quality of references, potential tenure, or even whether they have any children or pets.

However, many first time tenants and landlords are unaware that the rules and regulations surrounding rentals can be complicated and demanding - and if things go wrong for any reason, this can quickly lead to significant stress, financial penalties, and in the most extreme cases, escalate to legal proceedings.

Most tenants depend on their estate agent to protect their interests, which is similarly true for landlords. However, it is not always transparent that a particular agent has the experience, moral compass, and fortitude to operate diligently and consistently.

Currently, agents involved in lettings only are not regulated by the 1979 Estate Agents Act – and many have been in the business for a relatively short time. There is no requirement for them to meet any standards of compliance nor is any accreditation qualification required. Tenants may never actually meet the landlord or tenant, so It is therefore vital to work with an agent that can be trusted, and Holly Weston Property Manager at Lesters recommends certain simple checks that can be performed; -

- Is the agent a member of a recognised tenancy deposit scheme?
- Does the agent ask for suitable references?
- Does the agent check that landlords have a suitable mortgage in place e.g. ‘buy to let'?
- Do the staff in the agency receive regular training?
- Does the agent visit the properties in its rental portfolio to check everything in order?
- Are the appropriate checks undertaken, such as gas safety and electrical testing at all the lettings properties?
- Are you clearly informed of your obligations, and the process and choices available should you have a problem?
- Is the paperwork clear, accurate, on time, and correct (including all contracts, and receipts for any cash / sums paid)?
- Is the agent part of a leading national network, such as ARLA, NALS, or The Guild of Professional Estate Agents?

In the end, perhaps the best test of all is for the tenant to decide whether they would trust their own property with this agent - for rental to a stranger. If the answer is yes, then the odds are the tenant or the landlord will be in safe hands

We Wish Our Clients And Customers Very Merry Christmas

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:00:00 GMT

All the team at Lesters wish our clients present and past a very Merry Christmas and an enjoyable festive break. We will be open on the 28th, 29th and 30th at both offices and there are extended times that our Property Mangagement office can be contacted over the festive break for emergencies. Of course all our properties are available 24 hours to view with full details on our website. Our apps available on the Iphone and Android platforms. Our properties are showcased on our backlit LED window displays at both offices with QR codes on to download an abundance of information on every property to your smartphone. We wish Denise very best for her Maternity leave with her little one due soon! She will be missed by clients, customers and the team but hopefully it wont be too long before she`s back on board!

Property Cheaper To Buy Rather Than Rent Accross 90% Of Britain

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Guild Members Strike Gold At The Estate Agency Of The Year Awards 2011!

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Celebration was the order of the day when The Guild of Professional Estate Agents and its members were recognised with a clutch of trophies at the Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2011.

In the awards for which The Guild and its members were eligible, gongs were scooped in an impressive nine categories – four of which were gold. So once again, we have ‘punching well above our weight' in terms of national recognition.

The Guild and its staff and suppliers would like to take this opportunity to offer our heartfelt congratulations to all the members who won an award; the dedication of these premier agents to deliver outstanding service to their clients and communities does them enormous credit. They all fully deserve these awards and the accompanying recognition.

Julian Walley partner at the Wallingford office commented: This is excellent news for Guild agents proving beyond doubt the importance of using a Guild member agent to market your property.

Lesters have been the sole members of the Guild in the South Oxfordshire area for the last ten years.

Congratulations To Denise And Her Family

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

We were all delighted to hear the news of the birth of Tula Ava Twiss born on the 7th January. After a long wait! We all wish Denise and her family the very best for the future. The team at Wallingford clients and customers will miss her greatly but after a busy start to the year we will keep you posted on all developments! In the meantime please call Julian, Damian or Dawn for all your property sales or lettings requirements.

We Have Got An App For That!

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are once again leading the way with technology with all their properties available on their free apps. You can browse all our properties with full details with apps available on the iphone and android platforms. Damian Meech at the Wallingford office commented; The response has been overwhelming especially over the festive break with people downloading our apps. They will keep you posted of all our properties for lettings and sales and interesting news articles which are all updated on a daily basis. All these work in conjunction with our social media sites the apps are available to upload from our website lestersonline.co.uk or: For the iphone: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lesters-estate-agents/id454452566?mt=8 For the Android platform https://market.android.com/details?id=com.lesters.main&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5sZXN0ZXJzLm1haW4iXQ

Lesters Explain The Various House Prices Surveys

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Buyers and sellers can easily become confused between the various different house price surveys reproduced in the media, which often appear to conflict with each other. Thankfully, your local independent Guild estate agent, Lesters have the necessary specialist knowledge to interpret this and provide you with expert guidance.

Lesters have sophisticated tools that can provide you with weekly updates on the latest developments on your property (by location, price, even number of bedrooms) – and turn this into an intelligent and compelling buying or selling strategy. So in what is a ‘sea of information', try not to be overwhelmed and take time to understand the truth and relevance behind the numbers. Most importantly, always seek a local expert agent as a guide. Their advice is normally free and could be worth literally tens of thousands of pounds.

So how do house price surveys work, and which ones should you trust? The Land Registry, which records all completed property sales in England and Wales has been recording the price of all property sales since April 2000, although the data now goes back to January 1995.

The monthly survey tracks the end of the buying process, when a transaction is registered. It uses something called Repeat Sales Regression to measure the change in prices over time. This means it only records the change in the price of properties that have been sold before, to ensure a proper comparison. Most sales are included, except for commercial properties and a small number of residential sales, such as those of council houses and council flats sold at a discount. Also, repossessions and property transfers following a divorce are excluded to avoid skewing the sample. The proceeds of all the transactions are added up, and then divided by the total number of sales to reach an average sale price. As it takes virtually all residential property sales into account, the Land Registry`s figures can provide a unique insight down to postcode level.
Next, the Government has its own monthly house price index, issued by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG). This covers the whole of the UK and is based on data supplied by the Council of Mortgage Lenders. It is produced using a large sample (approximately 60%) of completed sales all of which have a mortgage attached, but cash sales are not included.
Unlike the Nationwide and Halifax surveys (see below) which are weighted according to transactions, the DLG survey depends much more on the total amount of money spent. This means that London and the South East, where house prices are highest, will have a greater influence on the Government`s index.

Perhaps the best known reports on the property market are provided by two of the UK`s biggest mortgage lenders – the Halifax and the Nationwide. Both surveys cover the entire UK, but are based on a sample of each lender`s own loans each month. The prices measured are those agreed at the point when the mortgage is approved, not at the later point when the sale is completed. The two surveys use identical statistical methods but because they use different samples, the figures sometimes diverge, in terms of both the monthly price changes and annual trends. Also, like the DCLG survey, they are based only on property sales financed by mortgage lending, ignoring sales which are transacted on a cash basis.

As a contrast, the RICS survey reflects confidence in the property market rather than what is actually happening to house prices. About 250 estate agents in the UK who are members are asked if they feel prices in their own areas have been rising or falling in the preceding three months. Although this appears to be a rather narrow and subjective way of measuring property price changes, generally speaking the RICS survey is the first to show any major changes in the market.

Finally, Hometrack and Rightmove are two property industry businesses which also produce their own house price surveys. Started in 1999, Hometrack collects data from 3,500 estate agent offices from all 2,200 postcode districts in England and Wales. The estate agents report whether asking prices are rising or falling. They are asked to report the "achievable selling price" for each of four standard property types in their area. Rightmove`s survey operates in a completely different way, by collating asking prices for houses placed on its own website over the previous month. The firm says its website now displays 90% of all homes for sale in the UK although its monthly survey covers just England and Wales. However, it obviously does not reflect the prices at which properties actually sell.

For more information on how Lesters can help sell your home, please telephone 01235 519888 or visit lestersonline.co.uk

Winter Maybe The Ideal Time To Sell Your Home

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Winter is often seen as a low-point for property sales but there can be advantages to buying or selling a property in these months. "There are fewer homes for sale in the winter but also fewer buyers which means less competition for both parties," said NAEA President, Wendy Evans Scott. Figures from NAEA members indicate that the number of active house buyers tends to decline during the winter months, but that, in the current economic climate, the number of homes available for purchase and the number of sales agreed remains fairly constant throughout the year - even during the winter months. While the number of properties available remains reasonably stable, the winter months can provide an opportune moment for buyers to focus their property search. For those willing to brave the chill, the winter market can also bring a greater sense of commitment from both sides to complete the sale, as people tend to make life-changing decisions in the New Year." NAEA tips for selling your home during the winter: * First impressions count: the outside of your house is the first thing that potential buyers will see, and in the winter front gardens and paths can look particularly drab. Make sure your front garden is up to scratch by painting any weather-beaten walls and replacing any frost-bitten plants; * Run an open house: buyers can often be put off house hunting during the coldest months, as the prospect of walking the streets looking at properties is not appealing. However, sellers can make this work to their advantage by running well-advertised open-house days during the winter. This will help attract committed and focused buyers, who will be grateful for your offer of a warm drink and a slice of home-made cake * Keep it warm: it`s simple but important - make sure that your home is well-heated while viewings are taking place. Plus, allow time for the house to warm up. If you know you`re going to be rushing home from work to oversee a viewing, it`s a good idea to set the heating timer so it comes on an hour before the buyer arrives. Buyers will also be interested in how well the heating system works, so if you have a particularly cold room it could be worth ensuring it is better insulated during the winter chill; * Check your lights: another simple tip is to ensure your home is lit well. Buyers will be even more attuned to the mood of the house in winter, and without much sunshine to brighten things up it`s important that you make sure all your bulbs are working to show off your home at its best. Safety-conscious buyers may also be impressed by outside lights and security lights, so invest in those if you are able. Lesters Wallingford and Didcot Offices are active members of The National Association of Estate Agents.

Cheaper Mortgages Provide Window Of Opportunity

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters have reported a strong start to 2012 in terms of enquiries, which they believe is at least partly due to the fact that homeowners are enjoying the cheapest mortgages on record, thanks to historically low interest rates. The public, it seems, are realising that this current mortgage opportunity is just too good to let pass. For potential buyers, this represents a valuable window of opportunity to secure highly favourable mortgage deals which may look very cheap in the years ahead. A number of lenders actually cut their interest rates in 2011 as they battled for share in an increasingly competitive market, but this will not last forever. Now might just be the best time to take a small risk and for home seekers to get on with their life – which is surely the biggest reward of all. The average mortgage payment is currently £494 per month, which compares to £601 at the height of the credit crunch some 4 years ago. In terms of affordability, the current figure represents 15.4% of average take home pay compared to 20.5% in 2008. The number of first time buyers also increased markedly last year compared to 2010 as banks relaxed some of their lending restrictions; there were 57,301 loans of 85% or more, up from 43,379 in the previous 12 months. It is expected that interest rates will remain at 0.5% (now 34 consecutive months) for some time to come, as the Government attempts to help support the economy via quantitative easing and other financial instruments. Karen Marshall, from Lesters comments; `Mortgage rationing, a significant minimum deposit, and a good personal credit history remain key to securing the best deals. But for those that can pass these hurdles, the offers are extremely attractive by any financial measure. If you wait for the perfect house, at the ideal price, with the lowest possible financing costs and when the economic outlook is favourable – then you may just never make the move. The children grow up, personal circumstances and requirements change, and your home is integral to this journey.`

Boost For Housing Market According To Naea

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

An unexpected surge in interest from potential homebuyers in December bodes well for the house market this year, commented James Gesner M.N.A.E.A National Association member and partner at Lesters in Didcot. The typical number of house hunters registered per branch in December was 294,132 more than the average figure for November, with viewings continuing right up until the Christmas break, the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) found. The percentage of first-time buyers also rose to 21%, continuing the increase since this section of the market hit its lowest proportion in nearly three years last autumn, although first-time buyers made up a quarter of the market during the same period last year. Mike Poole, NAEA regional executive for the north sector, said: "Many members were kept busy right up to the Christmas break which bodes well for 2012. Sales were being agreed and a limited number of viewings were still booked in right up until the festivities began." The increased interest from prospective buyers has yet to translate into purchases, with sales dropping off from six per branch in November to five in December, the lowest figure since December 2010 and in line with the expected seasonal slowdown. Lenders are expected to tighten their credit criteria this year amid the weak economic backdrop, meaning borrowers could face a tougher time obtaining a mortgage, despite lenders recently expanding their ranges. NAEA president Wendy Evans-Scott said: "It is pleasing to see that prospective house hunters remained determined to continue their search for a home despite the slowdown we normally expect to see at this busy time of the year. "While this has not currently converted into actual sales, which were slightly lower than in previous months, I remain confident that this clear demand for property will be met with sensible pricing of homes by sellers in 2012."

Look Out For The Lesters Wheels!

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Didcot office has taken delivery of their new office company car. With it's distinctive styling and catchy punchline the vehicle will no doubt be a constant sight on Didcot's streets.

Branch Partner James Gesner commented; We have always been keen to look at alternative ways to get our message across, a few years ago both offices had Lesters Mini's and they were a storming success and people kept asking us when we would be bringing them back! In fact they were used really successfully raising money for local charities with various events we held. We would also like to thank the team at Kingdom signs in Didcot for yet again another great job!

So look out for our latest addition at the firm's busy Didcot office the whole team are constantly using it on viewing appointments.

If you want a free valuation as the car states ‘we value your home' call the team on 01235 519888.

Lesters Staff Gain Top Industry Creditation

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

South Oxfordshire agent, Lesters are celebrating after alot of their members of staff gained a top
Professional qualification.

After completing the necessary training all the team at their High Street Offices have been made
Associate Members of the Guild of Professional Estate Agents – the UK's most prestigious network of
Independent agents, to which Lesters belong.

Congratulating Damian Meech, Dawn Oakley and Christie Woods on their achievement, Partner Julian Walley, who also did the training, said: `We have always been proud to belong to the Guild, which represents the very best in independent estate agency. Now through the efforts of all the staff at Lesters, the Guild has recognised our knowledge, skills and professional competence, and we can proudly claim to have the best trained staff in South Oxfordshire.

For a professional Appraisal on your property call the team at Wallingford on 01491 824000 or Didcot on 01235 51988.

Now Is A Great Time To Move

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Local Guild estate agent Lesters are advising that the next few weeks could be an ideal time to buy a property, particularly for first time buyers who do not want to be affected by the removal of the stamp duty relief next month on 24th March. For those in the fortunate position to be able to move quickly, Lesters offer some expert tips to consider. Lloyds TSB reported last week that it now costs on average a whopping £9,000 to purchase a property. This is up some 14% on 2010, mainly due to rises in various fees and this will increase further for many people, especially first-time buyers, when the temporary Stamp Duty Relief is removed shortly. An increased number of first time buyers have already taken advantage and beaten the stamp duty holiday with house sales edging up slightly during January, as reported in the latest RICS UK Housing Market survey. There is also evidence via Land Registry that prices of properties under £150k have recently been outperforming the overall market. The removal of the Stamp Duty relief will mean that for properties costing between £125k and £250k, any purchaser will pay on average £1,800 more than they are currently (for a typical UK house valued at £161,000, the additional premium will be £1,600). The buyer should be aware that Stamp Duty is liable for the whole amount at the highest relevant fee, and is not applied in tranches. Julian Walley M.N.A.E.A. M.A.R.L.A Senior Partner at Lesters comments that: `whilst these costs are largely unavoidable, it is important that buyers explore these areas carefully to make sure they get the best value for their money.` 1.) Agency fees You should read any agreements very carefully before signing; for example, some estate agency contracts state a relatively low percentage fee, but may also include a minimum cash sum that means you pay a higher amount than imagined. 2.) Conveyancing Conveyancing costs vary widely, and it pays to seek out a professional solicitor who can offer great value and service. Your estate agent can usually recommend one to you, but you should consider sourcing at least one other quote to ensure that this is competitive. The same applies for other necessary costs such as surveyors and removals. 3.) Beware of the cheapest supplier! There is much that can go wrong in a property transaction, and saving a few pounds could actually prove very expensive. Ask yourself how one company could be so much cheaper than the competition without having to make any unwelcome compromises. 4.) Stamp Duty If you can move before the end of March, you could save up to £2,000. Lesters are ideally placed to offer valuable advice and guidance on these areas – after all, there is no-one more motivated to help you move successfully!

How Facebook Might Help You Move

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

On 20th January 2012, Property Place launched the first full property transactions app on Facebook, with over 400,000 flats and houses featured on the site. This new service can be used by sellers, landlords and agents to promote sales and lettings, and tenants can also find and chat to potential room-mates, for a £35 fee.

This is however not as unique as it may seem, as our research indicates that over a year ago The Guild of Professional Estate Agents (The Guild) became the first organisation in Europe to implement a property search tool facility through their Facebook Page - once again demonstrating their ability to bring innovation and creativity to property marketing.

The Guild has been providing Facebook sites for its agents since 2010 and as a proud Guild member, Lesters have been taking advantage of this powerful and innovative tool in conjunction with their own site facebok.com/lestersonline. The property search facility embedded in our Facebook site allows potential buyers and tenants to search for their new home by location, type, size and price. Viewers can then also request a phone call, arrange a viewing or ask for a brochure to be emailed to them to be printed at home. Thus, the details of Lesters properties are likely to be viewed by more applicants. Facebook users can even share properties of interest with their friends, who are more likely to be pre-disposed to rent/purchase this (as of similar age, location, income, status and personal requirements).
More than half the UK population is now reported to be on Facebook and in particular women between the ages of 35 and 50 who tend to drive the decision-making process, especially on residential sales.

With nearly 40 million people using Facebook across the country, it is undoubtedly set to play a key role in the future of property marketing.

The key question therefore becomes ‘what exactly is the role of the agent in the process?'
Lesters know that buying or selling a property can be very stressful and confusing for all involved. A good estate agent will invest hundreds of pounds of his/her money in marketing; provide essential advice and guidance; build and support chains of movers and help resolve a wide range of problems - and all for the cheapest agency fees in the world.

According to Marcus Whewell, CEO of Guild of Professional Estate Agents, private residential sales have remained static at about 7% of the total UK market for the last 5 years. Put another way, this means that more than 9 out of 10 individuals realise that they can secure a better result by using an agent than trying to navigate a difficult and complicated process on their own.

With lettings, the legal demands and pitfalls are even more onerous. Complaints from tenants are rising rapidly as they fail to receive the expected service and choosing a good landlord is vital. Many tenants are unfortunately subjected to unexpected issues regarding electrical and gas safety, miss-management of their deposits, maintenance problems and the landlord is often unavailable or difficult to contact. An appropriate professional estate agent provides a tenant with the trust and confidence to enter into a legally binding lettings contract and ensures that the tenancy is as stress-free as possible.
So there is a fantastic opportunity for Facebook to bring people together in new and interesting ways – yet the assistance of a properly trained and experienced agent is more important than ever to a happy and successful outcome.

To search for property in your local area through our Facebook Page see: facebook.com/lestersonline

Celebrating 20 Years

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

We are proud to celebrate our 20th anniversary. From our opening in 1992 we are looking forward to celebrating our next 20 years!

Looking back at the last 20 years Senior Partner Julian Walley commented ‘we have a very clear philosophy, we employ local people we all live locally and live and breathe the local area' Many of our team have children that go to the local schools in the town and villages in the area.

Whilst technology has moved on Lesters have kept up with recent changes. All our properties are advertised on all the major websites, we have our own mobile sites for smart phones and our own apps for android and iphones. These are some of the reasons why we are the leading agent in the area and part of a network of over 650 agents throughout the UK. With our National advertising and London office we really offer a complete package for people on the move.

All estate agents are not the same and it's not just about advertising on Rightmove!

Lesters Advise First Time Property Buyers To Commit To Saving

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Despite the imminent rate rises recently announced by certain major lenders, buying will remain cheaper than renting for the vast majority of the UK population however, it can be really tough to save enough money to buy your first property.

James Gesner Senior Partner of Lesters offers some useful advice on how first time buyers can benefit from the following new schemes which are designed to encourage regular saving for those who want to get on to the housing ladder.

After the problems of the last decade caused by fluctuating house prices, ‘over lending', self-certified mortgages and interest only loans, the major lenders have become much more cautious about who they lend to and how much they are prepared to offer. Lending to the credit-impaired has reduced dramatically; the minimum deposit required to secure a mortgage is now typically in the region of 15% to 20%, with many first time buyers obliged to find in excess of £20,000.

This means that potential buyers need to take every advantage to raise the necessary funds. James suggests that building a good relationship with your local Independent Financial Adviser could help when it comes to a loan application but that does not necessarily mean that they will lend you what you want. Some lenders (such as Nationwide Building Society) are now offering Save To Buy Accounts that allow would-be buyers to devote their tax-free savings allowances towards house buying. This could be worth an additional £1,000 to £2,000 per year.
For some institutions, these new schemes are also linked to preferential arrangements that can mean a lower than normal deposit is required (as little as 5%). The only condition on the saver is that they do need to contribute regularly to the scheme.

Another lender (Halifax) will offer to provide a cash boost to a buyer's account when they move into a new home. First time buyers receive a £600 payment into their savings account if they build their savings balance by £150 for ten out of the twelve months before they apply for a first time buyer mortgage with the bank. To qualify, savers can use any of the bank's savings accounts.
For those who already have access to a suitable deposit, there are some exceptional mortgage deals available. The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said its year-on-year figures improved for the sixth month in a row after its members lent £10.5 billion in January and believes the 24th March deadline for the end of the stamp-duty free period for first-time buyers on properties under £250,000 has boosted activity.

Several lenders are offering rates as little as 3.19% on a five year fixed period, with competitive arrangement fees for up to 75% loan to value. These are unlikely to remain for too long, as continued uncertainties in the Eurozone threaten to tighten access to international funds and push up rates in the second half of the year.

What is clear is that for many first time buyers, their savings behaviour needs to change. There is a factor called ‘Generation Rent', which shows that people who do not yet own their own homes are generally less likely to save (for any objective) than those that do, but is has to start with a clear and firm financial commitment from the buyer.

That`s why we offer free advice on the process, what it might cost, what you should do to be in the best position to buy, how long it might take, and some essential tips in choosing the right partners (such as lenders and solicitors).

So why not give us a call and let the local, professional experts give you a helping hand.` Contact James or Karen your local Independent Financial Adviser at Lesters on 0149182400 or 01235 519888

Lesters Keep Chris Moving!!

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Local Estate Agent Lester's have sponsored Chris Allum of Cholsey in his quest to run the 2012 London Marathon to raise funds for the charity AMMF; they are the only registered charity which raises funds for research into cholangiocarcinoma cancer of which his father dad died of last year 2011.

Chris passed on his gratitude to Lester's quoting `I would like to say a massive thank you to Lester's Estate Agents and James Gesner in particular for their support to my Marathon challenge.

By providing my running trainers for the London Marathon they continue to demonstrate their support to me and help me with every step of the way!`

Chris also commented; On the 22nd April 2012, I have been lucky enough to gain a place in the London Marathon and I will be running in honour of my dad, Charlie who passed away on the 12th June 2011. Running the London Marathon has been a lifetime ambition for me and since my dad was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma cancer in November 2009; my will to enter grew considerably in order to raise money for AMMF and awareness of cholangiocarcinoma cancer which forms in the bile duct. My families chosen charity AMMF, who specialise in the research into cholangiocarcinoma cancer and it is mine and my family's goal to raise as much money as possible for this small charity.

We lost dad at a young 55 years of age and if I can help just one family from not having to go through the pain that my family is going through by raising money for this charity then it will have been worth it. Cholangiocarcinoma cancer know as CC is a very rare type of cancer but takes more lives each year than the more well known cervical cancer.

Chris is hoping to raise a minimum of £2,000 for his charity so if you can spare anything however little please do so at www.justgiving.com/Chris-Allum.

More details about AMMF and cholangiocarcinoma cancer can be found at www.ammf.org.uk/

Springtime `Hots Up` In 2012

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Early indicators suggest that property market activity in 2012 is on course to be more robust than in 2011.

New sellers' average asking prices are up by 1.6% this month and are seeing their strongest start to the year since 2004, fuelled by the continuing shortage of suitable stock and a jump of 16% in search activity on Rightmove during the first quarter. With estate agents both north and south reporting some encouraging seams of activity in select market sectors, average asking prices are now 2.2% higher nationally than a year ago.

Those property types favoured by first-time buyers have seen the largest price rises in the last 12 months. Terraces are up by 2.8% and flats have risen by 3.1%, out-performing semi-detached and detached property types. This suggests a pick-up in activity from first-time buyers and buy-to-let investors at the lower end of the market. However, sellers of properties between £125,000 and £250,000 will be concerned that the loss of the first-time buyer stamp duty incentive reducing their target audience of potential buyers. Around 40% of the properties currently on Rightmove are priced within in this bracket.

In stark contrast to the trials and tribulations of first-time buyers trying to save a thousand or two on stamp duty, new sellers' asking prices in London have reached a new peak of £455,159. The traditionally buoyant spring market has combined with a shortage of supply and brisk turnover of property. The result is another new record for average asking prices in the capital this month, representing an increase of nearly £600 a week over the last year, underlining London's continuing property market strength. The average asking price for a property in Kensington and Chelsea has also reached a new peak, breaking the £2 million barrier and now standing at £2,000,12

Lesters Discover A Piece Of Town History

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Our Didcot office has found a piece of Wallingford town history dating back to 1799, propping a bedroom door open!

The book of statutes believed to have been bought by the Wallingford Corporation in 1799 as a reference book was given to Lesters as a recognised and integral part of Wallingford's community, in order to find a suitable place for it to be enjoyed and used by the town's people. As such the book will be donated to the Wallingford Museum to be added to their large collection of Local history.

Wallingford based book expert Toby English commented `the national statutes were published annually, but the local interest is in the hand written notes and changes showing the town may not have been keeping up to date, but this book would still have been part of a collection.`
If you have any interesting artefacts, bring them in, we love to see them and will be happy to help you find them a good home where the community can see them.

Top Tips For Selling Your Home

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Estate Agents is advising sellers on practical ways to maximise interest in their property, as wider economic constraints continue to impact on activity in the UK housing market. According to the NAEA, the lack of available finance among house-hunters is resulting in less movement in the market. The organisation is therefore encouraging sellers to do as much as they can to attract potential buyers to their property to demonstrate it is a good purchase. President Wendy Evans Scott said: "Although the housing market is struggling at the moment, there are people out there who want, or need, to sell their home. "Sensible pricing is an absolute must to ensure a quick sale, but there are plenty of other small and inexpensive changes owners could make to their property, to help it stand out for all the right reasons." To help sellers make their homes noticeable in what is proving a tough market, the NAEA recommends the following: * Street appeal - The way the property is presented is critical. This means concentrating as much on the external aspects of the house such as the front garden, driveway and external facade, as you would on internal spaces. First impressions can often influence a house-hunter`s decision even before they have entered the property. At the very least, gardens should be tidy, the approach should look welcoming, and overall the outside should be well-looked after; * Take a buyer perspective - Disassociating yourself from the property can really help you to view it as a product to be sold, rather than your own personal space. Think practically about what personal items to display during viewings so that the home seems lived-in but not cluttered. Consider placing unnecessary personal items in storage to help the buyer more easily envisage themselves living there * Ensure neutral decor and plenty of light - If necessary, re-paint key rooms like the lounge, giving neutral decor to appeal to as many people as possible. Light decor can also help the property seem spacious, while opening curtains and blinds will maximise the amount of natural light. If you have a viewing in the evening, think carefully about how best to light each room, while natural light is a good thing, too much artificial lighting can seem stark * Repair and revitalise - Applying a coat of paint to worn walls, re-grouting bathroom surfaces and replacing any broken fixtures can really help to perk up a property. Taking the time to ensure things like door bells and light bulbs function as they should, will show the property is worth caring about * Get a professional valuation - Deciding on the right local estate agent to market your property and ensure your home is realistically priced is vital and choosing a licensed NAEA member will mean you are protected against unethical practice.

Land For Sale

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 GMT

A rare opportunity to buy a parcel of land with road frontage, measuring approx 80ft in depth by 60ft in width, that may offer potential for development (subject to planning permission). Likely to be of interest to property investors or developers, this parcel of land, edged red on the image, does not currently have planning permission for development. It is part of a large garden, with a roadside boundary, situated adjacent to a Grade II listed thatched cottage. The approximate site dimensions are 80ft in depth and around 60ft in width. Written offers should detail the amount you are willing to offer, along with how you intend to finance the purchase. In addition, you should highlight whether your offer is subject to any abnormal criteria, such as a site survey. Offers which are unconditional are more likely to be accepted, however our client may consider a suitably enhanced offer which is subject to planning permission.

Lesters Offer `Anchor House` For Sale

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are pleased to present to the market one of Wallingford's signature homes ‘Anchor House' steeped in history originally believed to be two properties and once ‘The Anchorage' public house (the cellar still exists to this day)

This property is situated tucked away in the conservation area in the town and the current owner reminds local selling agents Lesters of the time when it was home to ‘Reginal Ernest Warner' the famous writer and translator friend of C.S.Lewis and Anthony Burgess. Probably most famous for writing the novel "The Aerodrome" and the translation of Greek and Roman classical texts.

Rex Warner (1905-1986)

Britons Increasingly Confident On Housing Market

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Britons are becoming increasingly confident in the outlook for the housing market, according to the latest Halifax Housing Market Confidence tracker. Over 1 in 3 (39%) of respondents predict that house prices nationally will increase over the next year, almost double the proportion that believe house prices will fall (20%). Martin Ellis, housing economist at Halifax, commented: "It is encouraging that the level of consumer confidence in the housing market continues to improve, albeit from a very low base. This is consistent with the broad stability that we have been seeing in house prices nationally in recent months. According to the latest Halifax House Price Index, house prices in the first quarter of 2012 were just 0.1% lower than the final quarter of 2011. "There is, however, a substantial north-south divide to the improvement in housing confidence which is reflective of property prices in the South currently more resilient than in the North. Overall, we continue to expect little overall movement in prices this year provided that the UK economy does not suffer a pronounced weakening."

Interesting Discovery!

Tue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

You never know what you will find when you are inspecting properties!

Lesters Property Management recommends APIP accredited Independent Inventory Clerks ‘Peppermint Inventories' who discovered this house snake after the previous tenants had lost it! Debbie, from Peppermint commented: I have seen a few unusual sights in my time but this wasn't quite what I expected! We always keep numerous photographs on our file for our clients with our Inventories but not usually of animals or indeed snakes!

The matter has now been resolved and the incoming tenants will be taking the property without the unwelcome guest who definitely wasn't named on the tenancy agreement!

For more Information on Peppermint Inventories comprehensive service for Landlords please contact Debbie on 01235 200155 or www.peppermintinventories.co.uk

Lesters London Property Exhibition

Wed, 02 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters Estate Agents are proud to present their London Property Exhibition at their busy London Office at 121 Park Lane on the 25th and 26th of May. We will be showcasing select properties from our two South Oxfordshire offices to the busy and lucrative London market. If you are interested in taking part in this event and would like a free valuation or you are on the market and looking to stimulate interest on your property please contact us on 01491 824000

Home-Movers Deliver Most Upbeat Price Forecast For Nearly Two Years

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

House price optimism is at its highest for seven quarters, Rightmove's latest quarterly Consumer Confidence Survey of over 40,000 home-movers finds.

More than a third of respondents (35%) expect house prices to be higher one year from now, the highest level since the third quarter of 2010.The survey also finds that the proportion of those expecting house prices to be lower in 12 months' time is also at its lowest level (20%) for seven quarters.

Miles Shipside, Director at Rightmove, comments: `While the most common view remains that property prices will be about the same one year from now, this is the most upbeat price forecast Britain's homemovers have delivered in nearly two years. Confidence plays an important role in motivating those who can afford to buy to actually go ahead and transact. By self-selection, many of them are hunting in the same better-heeled locations which in turn builds greater momentum and price rise expectation in these more affluent areas. Conversely, lower levels of activity in less well-off areas spreads negative sentiment fuelling falling price confidence.`

Respondents were asked to explain the main reason for their price predictions and, interestingly, mortgage-related issues feature prominently in both the price optimist and price pessimist camps. Among price-optimists, 35% report an improving mortgage market and a further 14% identify continued low interest rates as the main reason for their view that prices will be higher 12 months from now.

Shipside comments: `The mortgage market continues to occupy home-movers' thoughts and there is evidence here that house price confidence is steered by their interpretation of mortgage availability. How you read it, which probably depends on whether you are ‘included' or ‘excluded' as mortgage-worthy by the lenders, seems to determine what you think will happen to prices. Those with larger deposits will naturally have a more positive interpretation of access to finance and, therefore, prices.`
Half of those intending to buy in the next 12 months state that finding a suitable property to buy is their single biggest concern. This has risen consistently from 36% two years ago and 44% a year ago to 50% now. Rightmove has previously reported that fresh property choice coming to market remains subdued at around 35% below 2007 pre-credit-crunch levels.

Shipside, observes: `Those looking to buy this year say their biggest concern is finding a suitable property to buy. This is leading a big chunk of those at the sharp-end of the property market to forecast higher prices as the lack of suitable choice will encourage them to pay a bit more to secure the right home when they find it. Those who can proceed will often be competing in the same locations as other deposit-rich buyers which could lead to increased rivalry for the most appealing properties.`
One of the features of this downturn is that property prices have held up or recovered better than many anticipated. This has not aided a return to the levels of affordability seen in previous downturns, which has been one of the factors in keeping sales transaction volumes muted. Indeed, nearly half (46%) of those surveyed state they felt property prices in their local area are above fair and reasonable levels.

Lesters resident Director Julian Walley adds: `In spite nearly half of people stating they think property prices are top heavy in the local area, the overwhelming view is that property prices will be the same or higher in a years' time. Those that are active in the market are perhaps looking in the better areas so their view is likely to be influenced by more buoyant conditions in cash rich locations. The less active deposit-poor areas will be those where prices will have to be dropped if a seller is keen to sell.`
Lesters advertise all their properties on rightmove.co.uk

Join The Great British Gardening Obsession!

Mon, 21 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

As the British obsession with garden improvements continues – creating an outdoor ‘room' as an extension to our home remains a priority quotes Director of Lesters and keen gardener Julian Walley.

It seems that home improvements like new kitchens and bathrooms are giving way to sprucing up that extra living, entertainment, relaxation and personal space known as the garden!

According to the findings of a study by Santander insurance, Britons spent a staggering £5.2 billon on garden improvements during the summer of 2010 – 2011. This equates to £1,280 per average British garden lover, with the survey estimating the improvements have added an average of £3,300 to the value of their home as a result. Whether you have a cosy courtyard or a generous-sized garden – making the most of any outdoor space could also increase your chances of selling.

A few simple and inexpensive tricks will help create a fabulous outdoor room, according to South Oxfordshire Independent estate & letting agents Lesters.
- Apply the same tidying rules to the garden as the home if preparing for a viewing. Put away any outdoor toys or tools, and throw away any broken pots or planters.

- Spring is the perfect time to show your lawn some tender loving care! Mow the grass and if there are any bare patches, sow some inexpensive grass seed.

- Containers or pots with seasonal plants can brighten up a patio or bare patch in the garden.

- Invest in some garden furniture for those family BBQs or outside entertaining.

- Get the professional look! A quick and easy trick to create a great look is edging. Take a spade and create deeply defined edges around all your trees and flowers beds.

- Lighten things up with some solar powered lights and put out some bird feeders or a bird table to encourage wildlife – the children will love it.

Barbecues And Blazes!

Mon, 28 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

While a sizzling barbecue, warm sunshine and plenty of booze might be many people's idea of a perfect summer's day, it can also be a recipe for disaster.

According to Leading Insurance Companies, Brits have caused a staggering £617 million of fire damage to their properties after barbecuing drunk.

Brits need few excuses to crack out the barbie – or indeed the beers – and one in four (25 per cent) will be drunk every time they take charge of the charcoal. However, the garden is often a hive of flammable features – from gazebos to sheds and even trees – and Brits have been responsible for reducing 1.5 million garden features to cinders in the last two years after accidentally starting inebriated infernos.

However, it is during the upcoming, action-packed summer of 2012 when barbecuing under the influence is predicted to reach new heights. That's with the revelation that millions of Brits are already penciling in boozy barbecue parties to coincide with the UEFA European Football Championships (22 per cent), The Queen's Diamond Jubilee (20 per cent) and the Olympics (19 per cent) – which could result in over 900,000 garden fires before August is out.

The unofficial title of ‘Head Barbecue Chef' is often a male-dominated one, so it is perhaps unsurprising to hear that the worst offenders of drunkenly grilling the garden are men – being responsible for the majority of incidences reported (80 per cent). However, it would seem when the girls get behind the barbecue that the heat is truly turned up, with women causing an average of £525 worth of drunken property damage compared to £383 for men.

Despite spreading like wildfire across the country, it is in the East Midlands where barbecuing under the influence is most commonplace – with 38 per cent of respondents from the region guilty of starting a backyard blaze. Following closely behind are Brits in the northwest (26 per cent) and Wales (24 per cent), while those in the Southwest report the lowest number of incidences in the country (4.5 per cent).

Top tips on how to avoid drunken bedlam when barbecuing. These include:

1. Never use the barbecue when drunk – even if you miraculously avoid setting the garden on fire there's a good chance your impaired judgment will result in undercooked (or severely overcooked) food that is unsafe to eat, or you could easily give yourself a nasty burn.

2. Anything wooden could be a fire hazard – ensure the barbecue is positioned well away from the shed, garden fence or trees.

3. Never use petrol to ignite a barbecue – stick to using firelighters and coals.

4.Disposable barbecues are fires waiting to happen - always ensure they are placed on a non-flammable surface and make sure they are completely extinguished before disposing of them.

5.Brave the smoke – never leave the barbecue unattended while it is in use.

`With this summer offering more barbecue and booze opportunities than ever before, we are urging Brits to be more responsible when in charge of the grill. After all, just a few small acts of mindfulness will go a long way to ensuring it's only the sausages, and not the shed, that gets sizzled this summer.`

Lesters Have Triple Celebrations!

Wed, 30 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Looking forward to the Queens Diamond Jubilee Lesters deck their Wallingford Office with bunting for the celebrations.

With the town in its full glory with many of the shops and business's decked out for the weekend it's opening as normal for a hectic weekend of festivities including the Jubilee celebrations and the Beers and Blues festival in the town centre.

All the staff working at the office live locally and will be supporting the local events as usual the office is open for business on the Saturday the second 9-5pm.

Lesters are also celebrating their own anniversary this year with twenty years successfully moving and renting properties in South Oxfordshire since 1992.

There was also double celebrations this week as the office also topped the table with findings from ‘For Sale Sign Analysis' Independent Market Share Reports in the United Kingdom declaring Lesters was the Estate Agent with the highest number of SOLD boards in the area from their survey carried out on the 14-16th May.

Branch Partner Julian Walley commented: We are really delighted with the results and this really shows the hard work and dedication of our local team

Lesters On Hand Whatever The Weather!

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 12:00:00 GMT

This Didcot family got caught out in the wet whilst out shopping in the half term break. The rain fall in the county has been high than average and you never know when you might need a brolley! James Gesner partner at the Didcot office came to the rescue during such a downpour handing out Lesters branded brolly! Keep your eye out for them on the High Street!

Time To Fix Your Mortgage

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:00:00 GMT

With the expected forthcoming increases in mortgage rates, many homeowners will currently be questioning whether to select a fixed or variable rate.

It is estimated that approximately one million householders will be facing an increase in their mortgage bill this summer, as several leading providers look to raise their rates ahead of expected rises in the costs of lending. With The Halifax, The Bank Of Ireland's UK arm (including Bristol and West), and The Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks already announcing an upward charge in rates, local agent Lesters is therefore offering advice to homeowners.

These increases in the UK have come as a result of the continuing difficulties in the Euro zone which now mean that for a £100,000 loan, payments for those so far affected will rise by approximately £30 per month.

Local agent Lesters have noticed that there is actually quite a difference in rates across the current range of mortgage providers. Moneyfacts, the financial information service, says that the standard variable rate (SVR) for existing borrowers ranges from 2.5% to 6.08%. Bank of England figures show that the average SVR at the end of February was 4.17%, which is relatively low by historical standards.

The SVR is arbitrarily set by each individual lender, taking into account the Bank of England base rate, the cost of funding mortgages and the balance between savers and borrowers. Over the last few years there has been a "clear trend", according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), for homeowners to revert to the SVR - but with rates starting to rise, many may now look at fixing their payments and thereby reducing any potential future risk.

Lesters offer the following advice to homeowners about the rise in mortgage rates and what to consider when deciding whether to select a fixed or variable rate.

1) Remortgaging or switching
People who see their SVR rising, and expect it to do so again in the near future, may decide to remortgage with the same lender or a rival. Most people start by discussing the options with their current provider, and then maybe speaking to an independent broker to compare this with the rest of the market. However, there are normally fees involved, and you need to include this in your calculations. You should also check whether the new lender has any ‘exit fees' before you lock in to a new deal.

One problem may apply to those unfortunate individuals who are in negative equity. They may find that their choice of new deals is quite limited, and may be obliged to stay with their existing provider.

2) Paying early
With negative real interest rates available from the banks (including ISAs), many people have directed any extra cash into paying off their mortgage more quickly. The advantage of being on an SVR is that there are usually no charges or penalties for paying more money each month and reducing the capital outstanding (the only exception may be those on a discounted rate).

3) Staying put
Hundreds of thousands of people are on SVR rates with various lenders. The recent rises from The Halifax and Bank Of Ireland are seen as ‘catching-up' with other providers and there is a feel that general rates may stay low for some time, as this is a very competitive market. Yet the state of the UK economy and the future of the Euro zone is far from certain, and therefore no-one can be certain about when rates might increase.

Lesters are Independent estate agents and Karen Marshall is our in-house specialists who can offer professional advice and guidance on the options available.

It’s Not Too Late To Stop Gravel Pits Here!

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters support Cage Gravel we don't want a huge ugly gravel pit here.

We still have time to change this. A government Inspector will hold pre-hearings in September and we need your support and show your opposition to this happening on our doorstep. As a local business with the two partners and all the staff living locally we are opposed to this area to be used for Gravel extraction.

There are less sensitive areas elsewhere, heavy Lorries creating dust and traffic problem will blight our local roads and our landscape would be affected for many years to come.

Please contact your local MP Ed Vaizey at vaizeye@parliment.uk or contact Oxfordshire County Council , Mineral & waster Deposit Team, OCC, Speedwell House, FREEPOST, OXFORD OX1 1NE. www.cagegravel.org.uk or pop into our Wallingford Office at 23 St Martin's Street to sign our petition against this potential atrocity on your doorstep.

We need your support.

Olympic Flame Passes Wallingford’s Main Streets

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Everyone was up early today as the town became a frenzy of activity past as the torch came up St Marys Street and St. Martin's Street in Wallingford. A fantastic crowd gathered sheltering from the rain which didn't dampen the spirits of locals from town and the surrounding villages.

With school children lining the route most of the schools in the area were starting later at 10am so that everyone got the opportunity to see the flame go past. Right in front of the Lesters Wallingford office the torch was changed between Raymond Blanc and David Earle (as pictured) as we were all in a fantastic spot to witness this ‘once in a lifetime' opportunity.

Looking forward to the event in 17 days time!

Follow the torch around the country at http://www.london2012.com/torch-relay/route/

Mortgage Lending Bounces Back In May

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The slump in activity that followed the end of the first-time buyer stamp duty holiday appears to have been short-lived as house purchase lending increased substantially in May, according to new statistics by the Council of Mortgage Lenders. In May, house purchase lending increased by 36% compared to April and 29% compared to last May. The number of loans also increased, by 33% from April and by 24% from a year ago. First-time buyer activity bounced back following the volatility of March and April. 18,100 loans, worth £2.3 billion, were advanced to first-time buyers in May, up from 12,700, worth £1.5 billion, in April. This may be a 43% rise (53% by value) from April but, following the distorting effects of the end of the stamp duty concession, this returns first-time buyer lending back to a similar level seen in the second half of 2011. Lending to home movers also increased with 30,200 loans taken out, worth £4.9 billion. This was up 29% by number and value compared to April and up 25% (29% by value) from May 2011. Karen Marshall Independent Financial Adviser at Lesters commented: "It is positive news for the market that the slump following the end of the stamp duty concession seems to have been short-lived. Lending is similar to late 2011 levels and showing a healthy improvement on the same time last year. For the latest deals and Independent Free Advice contact Karen at 01235 519888 or k.marshall@lestersonline.co.uk

Balloon Fun At Brightwell School

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:00:00 GMT

On Friday 13th Lesters were at Brightwell primary school fete raising money for the school. One of the Lesters cars was full of 219 balloons. Ali Zalinski and Leanne Jocelyn shared the prize having both guessed 218 and 220 respectively. If you are based in south Oxfordshire and fundraising for your local school or charity contact one of the partners at Lesters. Julian Walley and James Gesner are Involved with a number of local charties and organisations have children who attend local schools.

Morgages Lowest For More Than A Decade

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The Halifax Affordability Review shows typical mortgage payments for new borrowers - both first-time buyers and homemovers - at the long-term average loan to value ratio stood at 26% of disposable earnings in the second quarter of 2012. There has been a continued fall in payments relative to earnings over the past year from 29% in Q2 2011, taking this measure further below the long-term average of 36%. Overall, mortgage payments have nearly halved as a proportion of income over the past five years from a peak of 48% in Q3 2007. Karen Marshall Independent Financial Adviser at Lesters said: "Lower house prices and reduced mortgage rates have led to a significant improvement in housing affordability for those able to fund the necessary deposit to enter the market over the past five years. As a result, mortgage payments for a typical new borrower currently account for the lowest proportion of earnings for 15 years. "The relatively low level of mortgage payments in relation to income is providing support for house prices. The prospect of interest rates remaining at low levels for sometime yet is expected to continue to be a key factor supporting the demand for homes, helping to keep house prices around their current level during the remainder of 2012." Affordability is better than the long-term average in all regions. Each of the 12 UK regions has seen a marked improvement in affordability since mid 2007. Average mortgage payments as a proportion of average disposable earnings for a new borrower have fallen most - by two-thirds - in Northern Ireland and have nearly halved in Wales, Yorkshire & the Humber and Scotland. There have been significant improvements in affordability in most local authority districts since 2007. 98% of local areas have seen a fall in mortgage payments as a proportion of average earnings of at 25% or more. 37 areas - nearly 10% of the total surveyed - have recorded an improvement of 50%.

Lesters Wheels Round Town

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters based at Didcot and Wallingford are always on hand to offer viewings to their customers in their branded cars based at their two offices.

The two Seat Ibizas are all branded in the colours and '20 years logos' and can be constantly seen whizzing around the these two South Oxfordshire towns. Partner James Gesner comments: We have always been keen to offer this service to our clients and when we the first agent in the area offering this service with our Lesters minis many years ago we were always getting positive comments from customers and clients alike'.

So if your browse our website lestersonline.co.uk and see a property you wish to view you can be rest assured on getting a lift or meeting at the property. There's no mistaking us when we turn up!

Lesters Assistant Manager Buys His First Home

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 11:59:59 GMT

After seven months of searching, and many disappointments as I tried to purchase a couple of properties on the Ladygrove which I lost out on, or were withdrawn after I agreed a sale. I finally managed to find a property that I was happy to make my first home.

My new home came on the market with Lesters in May and as soon as I saw it, I knew it was for me. We agreed a price both the owners were happy with, and after a bit of pushing and at some points some stress! Local solicitors got it through for me and I got the keys at the end of June.

Once I had the keys the work began, redecorating throughout, new floors and so on, and then furnishing took time. But now I'm happy and settled into Ladygrove life, and I regularly see the previous owners who bought through Lesters on the estate. It is always Interesting being on the other side and it was an Invaluable experience for the job I do every day!

Property Of The Month

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Ladygrove £275,000

Lesters Didcot Office offer this impressive detached family house situated in a really sought after cul de sac at Loddon Drive. It has a larger than average sized garden too.

Accommodation includes: Entrance hallway, cloakroom, dining room, double aspect lounge, enlarged kitchen, three bedrooms with a family bathroom and an en-suite to the main bedroom. The garage roof space has been converted which can now be accessed from the second bedroom. This has ideal for use as an office or for a child's playroom.

There is parking to the front for two cars and a generous rear garden which is not overlooked. South facing and fully enclosed making it a really nice feature.

‘It's one of the nicest one's we have seen in the area' comments David at the Lesters Didcot Office. Contact him on 01235 519888 for a look inside.

Overpriced Property Deters Two Thirds Of Homebuyers

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Rightmove's research, carried out as part of its Market Intelligence campaign, finds that only 38% of home-movers would actually go and view a property they consider to be over-priced before deciding whether to put in a lower offer, even though sellers often price with a view to negotiating downwards.

Rightmove director Miles Shipside advises: `It can be tempting for sellers to price high on the assumption that they are giving themselves room for negotiation. However, our findings indicate that this can be a risky business and is likely to deter some six in ten potential buyers who might otherwise have visited the property without hesitation. Price is obviously a critical issue for both buyers and sellers in the current market, but it's much harder for a potential buyer to fall in love with a property if the asking price deters them from even setting foot through the front door. After a lull in activity over the summer, and with less than 100 days until Christmas, sellers will need to gather the right market intelligence and think carefully about their pricing tactics if they are to stand the best chance of moving during this autumn season.`

Among the 62% of respondents who would not go and view a property they felt was over-priced, 20% stated they would make an enquiry to the estate agent to find out if the vendor would accept offers under. This would indicate that, for sellers, prior discussion with your agent about how much you are prepared to negotiate is important.

Shipside adds: `Pricing appropriately for your target market is a major part of the equation when it comes to enticing buyers in. We urge sellers to do their homework and research comparable house prices so they have all the intel before they come to sell. Sellers are also advised to remember that the property must also be presented to showcase its full potential and to work with their agent to promote it well to attract as much interest as possible.`

Lesters Top Independent Survey Again!

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

A recent Independent board survey has confirmed that Lesters Estate Agents once again has more sold boards than any other agent.

Branch Partner Julian Walley said it is an amazing achievement. `Wallingford is a relatively small town with a lot of competition between estate agents.`

`To have nearly 25 per cent of the sold boards in the survey, nearly double the next closest agent, is proof that our marketing works, All our staff live locally and are experienced in selling & letting houses in and around the area ` added Julian.

`We feel it is very important to build strong relationships with all clients so that we can put the right people together and act diligently for all those involved.`
Despite the reported uncertainty in the market, Lesters are pleased to report that properties in the Wallingford area continue to sell well. Julian added: `I think our location is the main factor that keeps our market strong'.

`We deal with many clients from out of the area who need to move to Wallingford as it is within a good commutable distance of Oxford and Reading. Add to that the railway stations at nearby Didcot Parkway and Cholsey and you have an area that is desirable to many looking to relocate.
`As we continually sell properties in the area, we have a sizeable database of active clients, which I think is part of our success in the recent board survey.`

Julian said: `We have a quality marketing strategy and ensure all our properties are presented in the best possible way to the right people.`

Telephone: (01491) 824000 or (01235) 519888 or visit the offices at 23 St Martin's Street Wallingford or 72 Broadway, Didcot.

South Oxfordshire`s Core Strategy Announced

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

After over five years of work by the council an independent Planning Inspector has agreed that our core strategy provides a sound basis for the planning of the district over the next 15 years.

Senior Partner James Gesner commented: ‘ As local residents we have all being waiting to see what future plans hold for housing in the area. Many of us have children in local schools and have been brought up in the area'.

SODC have stated Now that they have received the green light with our strategy, our next focus will be working towards trying to get the strategy adopted before the end of the year.

The core strategy was submitted to the Government for its examination in March 2011. Throughout the process, the core strategy has been subject to extensive public consultation. Several sets of hearing sessions were held during 2011 and 2012. The plan identifies a number of new locations across the district that will strike the right balance between finding space for the homes and ensuring the new residents are able to integrate into the existing communities.

The strategy plans sustainably for the future with new greenfield neighbourhoods at Didcot and Wallingford. It will ensure that new development is carefully planned and of high quality through its requirements for affordable housing, new infrastructure and sustainable design. It also supports economic growth with new job creation and improved shopping. The plan aims to ensure that residents in rural areas will continue to have access to local services and facilities.

Further information can be found at:

http://www.southoxon.gov.uk/

Rental Prices In South Oxfordshire Set To Soar

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The BBC have contacted James Gesner, Senior Partner at the Lesters Didcot Office Lesters regarding the current rental climate. Please find a link to the article below and if you have anymore questions as a landlord, (even if you are not using Lesters) a tenant or thinking of buying a property to rent call James on 01235 519888 Rents in Oxfordshire will go up by more than half by 2022, the National Housing Federation has warned. Its report suggests monthly rent will rise from £934 to £1,447 while house prices in the South East will increase by 61%, the steepest rise nationwide. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-20128747

Lesters Are Marketing Their Portfolio Of Riverside Properties Whatever The Weather!

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Julian Walley Partner at the Wallingford Office commented; Over the years we have been privileged to sell some of the nicest riverside properties in the area and this photo just shows you our marketing continues whatever the weather. This particular property in Wallingford at £1 million continues to be marketed by every way possible states Julian. Not only through our network of 700 agents, London office and all the major websites. The passing boaters will continue to see the property for sale. Now even the local wildlife are taking a keen Interest but our board`s still standing firm!

How To Brighten Up Your Home This Winter

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT

After a cold, rain-soaked summer, brightened only by the gleam of Olympic gold, one might be forgiven for groaning at autumn chills and winter gloom.

But stifle that grumbling. It turns out that we've merely had to wait for things to brighten up. Interiors this autumn and winter are not the cocoons of previous years; dark places in which to hibernate until spring arrives. Instead the in look is bright, even dazzling. The textures popular in previous seasons are all there: velvets to stroke, woollen or linen/silk throws to snuggle into, cushions to laze back on, but the colours are very different.

Take the bright, virtually neon colours so popular in the past few months in fashion and furnishing, mute them slightly, and you're in the right direction. There's also a sense of the dramatic: jewel-like splashes – or more if you want – of rich blues, purples, jade and reddish pinks.

So add some colour to your property this year with these new colours available from major diy centres and entice your buyers whilst keeping the winter blues away!

Encouraging End To 2012

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The UK housing market should see a slightly stronger end to the year with transaction levels expected to pick up and price falls predicted to slow, says the latest RICS UK housing market survey (9 October 2012).

Helped by the prospect of greater mortgage availability on the back of recent government initiatives, chartered surveyors' expectations for future sales reached their highest level since May 2010.
During September, a net balance of 26 percent more respondents predicted transactions to grow during the final three months of the year.

This cautious optimism was also reflected in surveyors' price predictions with nine percent more respondents expecting prices to fall over the coming three months. While still in negative territory, this is the most positive reading since the time of the expiry of March's stamp duty holiday.
Last month, prices in the UK housing market continued to fall, albeit at a slower pace than in previous months. A net balance of 15 percent more surveyors reported falls rather than rises, the best reading since the spring.

Elsewhere, demand from potential buyers remained stable in most parts of the country with four percent more surveyors across the UK seeing increases rather than decreases in new buyer enquiries. Interest from would be buyers has not seen any significant growth since the end of 2009.

The amount of homes coming onto the market during September remained fairly flat, as five percent more respondents claimed that supply had risen rather than fallen. A persisting theme of the housing market in recent months seems to be that transactions are going through where vendors are realistic in their price expectations.

Peter Bolton King, RICS Global Residential Director said:
"The housing market was relatively flat during September but surveyors are optimistic that the run in to Christmas could see an increase in activity in many areas of the country. Prices are still dipping but at a much lower rate than seen in previous months.

"Despite this, problems still exist and more needs to be done to get the market moving. Unrealistic expectations on the part of vendors seem to be stalling the transaction process.

Meanwhile, although the funding for lending scheme appears to be improving mortgage availability, those at the very bottom of the housing ladder are still struggling."

Make Sure Your Property Is Ready For The Winter Weather Storms

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT

With a harsh winter predicted and freezing temperatures on the way, It is advisable to give your home a winter health check now to reduce the risk of damage to their property. Last year Lloyds TSB Home Insurance handled 26,500 burst and frozen pipe claims which cost over £39million to put right, and over 14,000 windstorm damage claims totalling over £5million to fix. Tim Downes, senior claims manager, Lloyds TSB Home Insurance, said: "In winter we tend to think less about our homes` exterior and like to retreat indoors, however there are some essential checks that need to be carried out to see it through the bad weather. Prevention is the key, as much of the damage could be avoided if householders spent a small amount of time preparing for the bad weather." Check the condition of the roof. Look for cracked or broken tiles, cracks in the chimney or problems with the pointing. If any repairs are needed, hire a professional roofing contractor to carry out the work as soon as possible; Clear the gutters and drain pipes of any leaves or debris that have built up in them to reduce the risk of blocks and overflows Keep gates and outbuilding doors fastened securely and secure any other loose items Check external light fittings are secure Cut back low hanging branches that could cause damage in high winds or storms. Have your boiler serviced at least once a year by a GasSafe registered professional and have the central heating and gas fires checked to ensure they are working safely and efficiently Check that the loft is insulated properly but also has adequate ventilation Thicker curtains will help to keep more heat in the home Keep the central heating set to at least 10 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing Keep a home emergency kit prepared in case of a winter emergency such as a severe snowstorm. This could include torches, spare bulbs and batteries, your home insurance documents, other emergency contact details, tinned food, warm clothing, blankets and a shovel Listen to the radio or check online for regular updates on the weather or other emergency situations

South Oxfordshire Residents Asses Flood Damage

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Residents across Oxfordshire are beginning to clear up after incidents of flooding. Parts of Oxford, including Abingdon Road, remain closed although Seacourt Park and Ride has partially reopened today. A number of flood warnings remain in place for the River Thames, including parts of Oxford. The Met Office issued ice warnings as temperatures fell below freezing overnight into Thursday. Gritters were out across the area during the night. Drivers are being advised to stay vigilant on the roads. In Henley, river levels had remained more or less unchanged overnight. Most of the flooding has happened on the south side of the River Thames, away from most buildings. Oxfordshire County Council`s deputy leader Rodney Rose said although this emergency was coming to an end, the authority would not be collecting its stock of sandbags until it was sure the flood risk had reduced further. He said the flooding had caused damage to roads in the county which would be fully assessed once all the flood water had receded.

Ten Top Tips To Help Sell Your House

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:00:00 GMT

It`s all about property presentation

Homes are our biggest asset, naturally we expect a good price and yes under the right circumstances it should be possible to get it. Let me tell you if you put your property on the market with the `let's see what happens` attitude you are not likely to achieve your price expectations.

Would you sell a car without giving it a quick wash and brush up? No, so why do it when trying to sell your home?

Getting the buyer to connect with your home, to imagine how it will suit their family and lifestyle, is not just luck; it's about creating the right environment so they can't resist it.

It's extremely important that each room appears as it is intended to be used. Imagine the mindset of a potential buyer of a three bedroom house seeing two bedrooms plus a storage room!

And why do vendors think they are doing potential buyers a favour by showing them their home? It might take multiple viewings and can be wearing but it has to be done at a time convenient to the buyer not just the vendor.

To sell your home in today's marketplace follow these few simple tips:

1. Good landscaping will transform the exterior look and feel of your home and give you a higher price. Hire a landscaper or do it yourself.

2. Your front door is the centerpiece of your kerb appeal so repaint it in a tasteful colour. Update the outside lights and put potted plants on either side of the door.

3. The entrance hall creates a first impression… make sure it is the right impression. Paint it in a neutral colour, remove any bulky furniture, upgrade the lighting and if you feel you need colour add it with accessories and a rug.

4. The wrong lighting can make your home feel dark and drab so install brighter modern lights to make your home seem sunny, cheerful and up to date.

5. Paint colour is such a personal choice and potential buyers are likely to want to customize it themselves. If you have dark rich colours then repaint in neutral hues.

6. Avoid major overhauls, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, but do update the lighting, install new faucets, mirrors and doorknobs if they are dated.

7. Clutter. NO, NO, NO! How do you expect to impress potential buyers with a cluttered house? If you have outgrown your home, start packing and if you don't have anywhere to put it then use storage.

8. Pets – some love them, some hate them and some are allergic to them, so make sure that on the viewing they are out of they house to prevent one of three things happening:

- Pet lovers will pay more attention to your pet and less attention to your home.
- Pet haters will feel uncomfortable, completely on their guard and rush round your property leaving as soon as they can.
- If you have a buyer that is allergic to animals, a reaction will put them off your home. Remove all pet bowls, baskets and (most important) litter trays.

9. Back garden. The first thing people see when they walk out the back? An unkempt garden? Loose concrete slabs? Your back garden should look like a space for entertaining. If need be, buy inexpensive patio furniture, potted plants and install some outdoor lighting to tie it all together.

10. Clean – Buyers expect to see an immaculate home with no signs of dirt. Remove last night's Indian take away from the work tops and do the washing up! No dirty underwear on the bedroom floor

Potential buyers need to imagine themselves living in `your` space, your perfectly clean home!

You will be surprised how big an impression these small updates can make. By the time you`re done, you`ll wonder why you didn`t do it sooner!

Follow these small steps to help maximise your property's potential that will allow you to achieve a faster sale and the best possible market price for your home

5 Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Hit Lowest Rate Since Summer 2007

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Borrowers set new record for fixed rate applications. The average five-year fixed rate for mortgage borrowers in December 2012 was better than at any point since before the recession, according to the latest National Mortgage Index from the UK's leading independent mortgage broker, Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB).

At 4.27%, the typical five-year rate was 0.34% lower than at the start of 2012 and the lowest since MAB started gathering this data in June 2007. It means any consumer who took out a five-year fixed mortgage at this rate will be over £14,000 better off by the end of their fixed term than if they had done so in July 2008, when average five-year rates hit 6.92%.

Using data from more than 500 brokers and 800 estate agents, the National Mortgage Index also reports that activity for December 2012 was up 7.5% on December 2011, showing that the mortgage market is continuing to recover despite the usual seasonal lull.

Two and three year rates continued to fall in December to 4.28% (vs. 4.40% – November 2012) and 4.52% (vs. 4.73% – November 2012) respectively. Fixed rate deals accounted for over 9 in 10 purchase and remortgage applications in the month: the highest share ever recorded by MAB.

The popularity of fixed purchase applications grew for the seventh successive month to a record high of 91.9%. Fixed deals were also chosen for 91.0% of remortgage applications, up from November's 89.6% to the highest figure seen in this index.

`Borrowers would usually expect to pay a premium for the certainty and security that fixed rates offer. But the current climate of incentivised lending means in many cases they are enjoying the best of both worlds. Many 60% LTV deals are readily accessible for up to five years at fixed rates below 3%, and even with 85% LTV it is possible to secure a deal below 4%.

Buyers may be paying larger deposits, but before lamenting their prospects in the current market, it is well worth considering the amount of money they stand to save through these attractive rates.

The level of competition means these favourable conditions are likely to last well into 2013. Whether you are looking to buy a home or remortgage your existing property, the prospects of finding an attractive deal are far greater than they were 12 months ago.`

If you would like independent advice on a new mortgage, re mortgage or buy to let investing please get in touch and we can arrange a meeting with you and our advisor Karen Marshall.

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

Lesters Latest Recruit

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 GMT

The partners are pleased to Introduce the latest recruit to the company Richard Lee. Richard is Oxford born and bred and has lived in the county all his life and has an excellent knowledge of the area.

He has been in estate agency since the late 1980's and has built a reputation for honest and sensible advice, this has seen many clients return to him years later when they come to move home again.
Having previously worked for a well known national estate agent dealing with the top end of the market Richard is a firm believer that only an Independent local agent can offer a truly personal service to clients.

Richard lives in locally with his partner and two large rescue cats! When he is not selling houses enjoys getting out to the countryside and coast, photography and gardening. Richard is based at our busy Wallingford Office where he is quickly establishing himself with a busy start to the year for sales in the office.

Partner, James Gesner Runs For Charity

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 12:00:00 GMT

James Gesner, Partner of Lesters Estate Agents is taking on a lifetime goal by running the London Marathon on April 21st 2013.

James remarked, ‘Being able to run 26.2 miles is no easy feat and something I have always wanted to do. I am currently training 4 times a week and have been since the start of the year. I am up to half marathon distance already and things are going great'.

As well as take on this challenge I am raising money for a children's charity called VICTA, visually impaired children taking action please see their website for more information at http://www.victa.org.uk/

I would sincerely like to thank all of you who have supported me so far, friends, family, colleague's clients and customers.

If you would like to show your support and sponsor James you can do so at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JamesGesner it only take 2 minutes!

Invitation To Lesters Buy To Let Evening

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:00:00 GMT

We Invite everyone to `Lesters Buy To Let Evening` on Thursday March 14th from 6-8 pm. Our Didcot office will be open and our experienced team will be on hand to answer any questions on the `Buy to Let` market. Our Independent Financial Adviser Karen Marshall will be on hand as well as the Partners James & Julian with Holly Weston our Property Manager. Our advice is free of charge and you don`t need to be buying or renting through Lesters. We look forward to seeing you on Thursday the 14th, if you want any more information please do not hesitate to contact us before the event. Held at: 72 Broadway, Didcot OX11 8AE. 01235 519888 with parking in front of the office. Or just round the corner parking is free.

Social Media Important When Selling Your Home

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Social media has greatly changed communication over the past few years. Instead of saying, "Call me!" A more common phrase these days is Facebook me! Likewise, more people are getting their news from the internet rather than the newspaper. In fact Facebook is the information source of choice for many people now. Even when conducting a search on Facebook you get internet Search results at the bottom of the page as well. So when you decide to sell your house use Lesters with established sites on the social media networks, such as Facebook and Twitter. These sites can be especially useful when targeting young buyers. As the "technology generation" grows up, more people are turning to their favourite social network to help them find information, including looking for places to live. If your house is listed on the social network that your potential buyers are using, then you widen your advertising reach, and therefore increase your chances of selling your house in a reasonable time frame.

Lesters `Buy To Let Evening` A Great Success

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters held their ‘Buy to Let' evening at their Didcot office at 72 the Broadway on Thursday 14th March. The response was overwhelming and the evening was a great success. To hand were both Partners James Gesner and Julian Walley with Holly Weston the Property Manager and Lesters Independent Financial Adviser, Karen Marshall.

After 6pm there was a steady stream of clients and new customers who wanted professional advice on a variety of subjects. This included advice on the best current mortgage deals and the ideal type of property to buy to rent out.

We also welcomed some of our current landlords who were looking to seek additional properties for their portfolio with Lesters for further Investment.

Undoubtedly after this success we will be holding another of these events before very long. Please remember the Partners Julian & James, Holly our Property Manager and Karen our IFA are always on to give free advice. You do not need to be buying or thinking of buying through Lesters our advice is free and with combined experience in the Industry of over 40 years we can show how our advice has worked for others.

Please contact Didcot on 01235 519888 or Wallingford on 01491 824000 or drop us an email anytime.

Invitation To Lesters London Property Exhibition

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are holding a South Oxfordshire Property Exhibition at their busy London office on the 9th May 2013.

Past exhibitions have proved a great success with potential buyers visiting a showcase of the company's properties at the offices at 121 Park Lane, London, opposite Hyde Park.

For a free valuation of your home and to see whether your property could be featured at this event then please contact Richard on 01491 824000 for more Information

Introducing Lesters Lifestyle Magazine

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are pleased to Introduce their new glossy magazine ‘Lesterslife'. Produced monthly this quality magazine is available for collection in both High Street offices and has a variety of Interesting articles relating to the housing market.

The magazine also advertises Lester's portfolio of properties via a national network of over 700 offices in the United Kingdom and our London office.

If you would like a free copy then please pop into one of our offices or give us a call. If you are thinking of putting your property on the market this advertising is complimentary for all our clients.

Partner Runs For Oxford Based Charity

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Partner at the firm James Gesner entered the Mizuno Reading Half Marathon to raise money for Oxfam on Sunday March 17th.

This was perfect preparation and a great event with over 16,000 runners taking to the streets of Reading to run the 13.1 mile trip which starts and finishes at the Madejski Stadium in Green Park, Home of Reading Football Club.

The weather was terrible with temperatures just above freezing and snow falling. During the race the rain came down in heavy spells but this didn't perturb the thousands of spectators who lined the streets to cheer on the runners.

James crossed the line in a time of 1hr 47 minutes which was a new Personal Best. James has been training five times a week since January to prepare for the London marathon which is on April 21st.

If you would like to sponsor James and support one of the two charities he is running for then please do so at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JamesGesner.

Lesters Partner Raises Over £5,000 For Childrens Charity

Fri, 24 May 2013 12:00:00 GMT

James had been training hard for the marathon since early January in terrible conditions only to finally complete the race in temperatures typical of a summer holiday in Spain! Crossing the line in a very respectable time of 4 hours 47 seconds.

The monies have now been counted and the official total which was raised by for VICTA supporting blind and partially sighted children, young people and their families across the UK including gift aid was £5,415!!! This is a great achievement for anyone and a record for the charity for a London marathon Runner.

It's not too late to donate towards to cause at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=JamesGesner

James quoted ‘this was one of my best achievements yet and I was overwhelmed by the sheer mount of support and money which was given to the charity. Running 26.2 miles is something only 2% of people have ever done and is something I will definitely do again. If you are thinking of taking on this challenge then go for it as you will never feel atmosphere like it anywhere else!'

First Time Buyer Activity Increases

Thu, 30 May 2013 12:00:00 GMT

First-time buyer activity remained strong in March with the number of first-time buyers increasing by 20% according to data published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders. This increase, as well as small rise in the number of home movers, contributed to a monthly jump in house purchase lending. Remortgage lending also increased compared to February but remained flat over the first quarter. A total of 19,100 loans (worth £2.4billion) were advanced to first-time buyers in March, up from 15,900 loans in February but down on the 24,400 loans advanced in March last year. However, March 2012 marked the end of the first-time buyer stamp duty holiday and resulted in a significant jump in activity, making meaningful year-on-year comparisons difficult. While the loan-to-value ratio for first-time buyers remained at 80%, there has been a gradual increase in the proportion of first-time buyers taking out loans with a deposit of 10% or less. In the first quarter of the year 1 in 4 first-time buyers put down a deposit at 10% or less – up from 1 in 5 in the first quarter of last year. First-time buyers also typically borrowed a slightly larger amount in March than in February, both in absolute terms and relative to their income. First-time buyers also continued to account for an increasing proportion of all house purchase loans – increasing to 45% in March from 43% in February. A total of 42,000 house purchase loans were advanced in March (worth £6.2billion) marking a 15% rise on February lending. As expected, house purchase lending in March was down (19%) on March 2012 but this was again due to distortions around the end of the stamp duty concession in March 2012. CML Director General Paul Smee said: `First-time buyer activity in the first quarter was nearly at the same level as last year – when figures were buoyed up by the end of the stamp duty holiday. This suggests that the market continues to be favourable for those looking to buy their first home. `More borrowers are taking out higher loan-to-value mortgages than any other time in the last four years – a sign that lenders are open for business, and that borrowers, even those without a large deposit, are increasingly able to get a foot on the property ladder.`

Beautiful Country Cottage Available To Rent

Thu, 30 May 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are pleased to present to the market for the first time ‘Old Pyles' in Aston Upthorpe.

A beautiful detached 3/4 bedroom grade two listed thatched cottage with a wealth of exposed beams and timbers situated in an enviable location in this desirable village. With a working fireplace in the vaulted living room. Separate self contained one bedroom detached annexe. £2,000 pcm

Available to let on a furnished basis. No smokers, no pets please.
Contact Julian at the Wallingford Office on 01491 824000 for more information

Lesters Always Available To Chat Online

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are the only local agent to use an operator service to talk on line during office hours.

This service brought in a year ago has proved a hit with buyers, sellers and tenants who whilst busy at work and unable to talk want to stay in contact with a messaging service.

Go to the home page at www.lestersonline.co.uk and click on ‘chat' to either sales office or our property Management Department. This is available during office hours. Mon- Friday 8.30 – 6pm and Saturdays 9-5pm.

There are extended times including Sundays for all our tenants in our Managed properties.

Lesters Proud To Support Local Events

Fri, 28 Jun 2013 12:00:00 GMT

During 2013 Lesters are proud to continue their support local schools and events in the area. The partners James and Julian who both live in the town are keen supporters of the Rugfest and Bunkfest always attend both events with their families every year for more information on the upcoming Bunkfest in the Kinecroft go to www.bunkfest.co.uk Look forward to seeing you there!

More Confidence Returns To The Housing Market

Wed, 24 Jul 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Confidence in the housing market has risen significantly over the past three months, according to the latest quarterly Halifax Housing Market Confidence tracker.

The tracker reveals that the headline House Price Outlook balance (i.e. the difference between the proportion of people across Britain that expect the average house price to rise rather than fall) stood at +40 in June. This was an increase of 7 percentage points compared with last quarter (+33) and was the highest score on this measure since the tracker began in April 2011.

Martin Ellis, housing economist at Halifax, said: `Sentiment regarding the outlook for house prices has improved markedly over the past quarter, continuing the trend seen since late 2012.

`This increase in optimism is partly due to house prices being stronger than expected in the first half of the year. We continue to see a clear north / south divide with significantly higher proportions of people expecting prices to rise in the south than elsewhere in the UK.

More than half (52%) of British adults predict the average UK house price will rise over the next year – an increase of 7 percentage points since March and 25 points since June 2012. Londoners are the most optimistic with nearly three-quarters (73%) expecting a rise.

The various initiatives designed to stimulate the market such as the funding for lending scheme, New Buy and Help to Buy equity share schemes appear to be working which is encouraging.
Now, with the rise in those believing that it will be a good time to sell, just under a quarter (23%) believe that it will be a good time to both buy and sell over the coming 12 months. This compares with 16% three months' ago.

Mentions about being able to afford a deposit increased significantly over the past quarter with 64% of respondents highlighting this as one of the main barriers to buying a home compared with 67% in Q1 2013 The proportion identifying concerns about job security has stayed unchanged at 58%.
More people expect the average house price to rise than fall over the next 12 months in all regions.
While all regions have become more optimistic since the last survey, those living in London are the most optimistic with an overall net balance of +69, followed by the South East (+52) and the East of England (+49). In contrast, those living in the North West (+23), East Midlands (+25) Wales (+25) and Yorkshire and Humberside (+26) are the least optimistic.

London (41%) has the highest proportion of respondents who think that it will be a good time to sell during the coming year. In contrast, only 9% in Scotland believe that it will be a good time to sell.

Partner Raises Money For Children`s Cancer Charity

Tue, 17 Sep 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Julian Walley partner at the Wallingford office has cycled over 54 miles on the London-Brighton ride for the charity ‘Children for Cancer UK`. Through what can only be described as a ‘mixed bag` of weather Julian completed the course with two colleagues on Sunday 8 September, going up the infamous ‘ Ditchling Beacon` in one. Following the footsteps of his colleague and Business partner James completing the London Marathon this year both partners are looking forward to fresh challenges in 2014 and are always keen to raise money and support local charities and schools.

Where Are The Vendors?

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:00:00 GMT

To fully understand the nature of the UK property market, it is important to recognise that there are significant variations in supply dynamics across mainland UK. In fact, it should come as no surprise that the balance of supply and demand for property in each region is fundamentally correlated with price performance. Although the regional disparities in price recovery have been widely reported, regional supply dynamics, whilst equally important, have not garnered sufficient attention. The current volume of vendors entering the market (around 100,000 per month across the UK) is less than half of what it was during the property boom year of 2007. It may be argued that restricted supply of property for sale has been instrumental in both preventing a greater crash and facilitating a much more rapid recovery. The same thesis applies at a regional level. The consequences of low supply and high demand are all too apparent in the overheating London property market, where supply is down 19% and prices are up 10.5% (year-on-year). Contrastingly, the North East is the real contrarian in the country`s supply crisis. In this region, the supply of new and resale property has actually risen by 16% over the last 12 months while pricing is essentially stagnant (+0.5% but falling in real terms). Clearly, in the current market, homeowners in areas where prices are growing at a reasonable rate are reluctant to sell. Concerns about the lack of suitable properties are discouraging many would-be vendors. Another considerable influence is the strong rental market. As sales prices continue to rise, property owners are choosing to bide their time and enjoy the high rental yields and income generated from a strong lettings market, hence the growing number of ‘double renters`. Even in London, where the average property price has risen 10.5% in the last 12 months, the strong rental market can offer landlords an average monthly rent of £2,369 for a flat and £3,636 for a house. On the other hand, we are also witnessing increases in the number of vendors in the poorly performing northern regions. This is an alarming trend for areas such as the North East and the North West where price growth is already negligible. Increasing supply looks set to keep prices in such regions in check, at least for the rest of the year. Hence, in contrast to the South, the North remains, for the time being, a buyer`s market. Doug Shephard, director at Home.co.uk, commented: Prices in the capital are already increasing too fast and further restrictions in supply can only serve to make matters worse. Meanwhile, increases in supply in the sluggish northern markets can only exacerbate their problem of slow sales and price stagnation.

Construction Turning A Corner

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Data released by the Office for National Statistics has provided more encouraging news on the UK economy. Real output in Great Britain`s construction sector grew by 2.0% compared with the same month a year ago, due to a 5.8% increase in new work. The expansion in new work was partially offset by a 3.6% decline in repair & maintenance activity. Scott Corfe, Managing Economist, Centre for Economics and Business Research, said: `The construction sector has fared poorly since the start of the financial crisis, with economic output in 2012 some 13.7% lower than in 2007. `The latest labour market data show the number of workforce jobs in the sector in June 2013 was 11.6% lower than in June 2007 - 256,000 fewer jobs. Given this weak recent performance, the latest data from the ONS are welcome and suggest that the sector may be turning a corner. Looking at new work in the construction sector, output growth was strongest for private housing, where construction activity in July 2013 was 14.7% higher than a year ago. `This suggests that the recovery in the housing market seen in recent months, supported by schemes such as Help to Buy and Funding for Lending, is starting to translate into a recovery in house building. `Overall, the latest official data on construction are encouraging and we expect the sector to start making a more positive contribution to economic growth over the coming months. Unofficial measures of construction sector activity, such as the Markit/CIPS Purchasing Managers` Index (PMI) for the sector, suggest that economic expansion continued in August.

Give Nature A Home In Your Garden

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 12:00:00 GMT

It really doesn`t matter if you`ve got an acre of land or a window box – when it comes to giving nature a home, where there`s a will there`s a way. Wild creatures like cosy too! So don`t discount yourselves if your outside space is a balcony or a tiny garden, you can help all kinds of wild creatures. Tubs and planters are a great way to add a splash of colour whilst also providing a great home for wildlife. They can be used to grow climbers and small shrubs, or even to replicate a lawn or wild flower meadow. Climbers take up little space against a wall or trained up and over a balcony. When grown over a railing, they act as a windshield and reduce the drying effect on the other plants in the tubs, as well as providing shelter. The beautiful flowers also provide colour, scent and a source of nectar. Herbs work well in pots in the sun; lavender, rosemary, mint, oregano, thyme are all good for bees and practical as well. Flowering plants are great too; coneflowers, sneezeweeds and rudbeckias can work well in containers. Dwarf fruit trees like apple, plum and pear provide wild food sources for birds, and climbers like honeysuckle, ivy and clematis have good wildlife credentials as they provide various benefits from cover, berries and nectar. Water features don`t have to be huge, elaborate statues – tubs are a great place to house a water feature too. You could use an old sink or washing up bowl and turn it into a haven for wildlife. Place the container out of direct sunlight and prevailing wind. A sloping edge will give birds somewhere safe to drink and bathe. A slightly less attractive, but equally as beneficial home for nature, is a pile of dead wood. Yes really! It`s often overlooked but birds will feed on the insects that make their home in old wood and it may even provide a nest site for a bird or a roost for a bat. Creating a wood pile is easy in a smaller garden – an old bucket with a mix of wood chippings and soil or small logs placed among planters or used to make a raised planter will do the job nicely. Its best to put your wood pile in the shade – too much sunlight will dry it out but a damper spot will attract all sorts of creepy crawlies. Feeding birds is easy and rewarding whatever kind of garden you have. A hanging feeder can be attached to a hook on the wall or a window feeder is a great option. With any luck once your local birds know your feeder is there and regularly replenished with treats like millet, nyjer seed and sunflower hearts, you may even have a friendly face dining on your feeder while you do the washing up! Like us, wild creatures have three basic needs – food, water and shelter. By planting a range of shrubs and flowers you will go some way to providing shelter but you could go one step further and put up a nest box. Again, avoid direct sunlight and strong winds, and easy access for predators like cats. Birds use nestboxes for breeding in Spring and throughout the summer but they also use them as a shelter from the weather in winter. Wild creatures won`t turn their nose up at any guest accommodation if it offers them a place to rest and refuel so enjoy turning your cosy outside space into a great home for nature!

Don`t Wait Till Winter To Make Your Home Energy Smart

Wed, 25 Sep 2013 12:00:00 GMT

It`s not long before the clocks go back, the temperatures drop and the nights draw in – bringing winter ever closer. However, if you are looking to sell your home and demonstrate your energy- saving skills and financial common sense to potential buyers, then now is a good time to start. Lesters Estate Agents are urging sellers to tighten up where necessary before the onset of bad weather later this year. James Gesner Partner at their Didcot office states: `We are just entering autumn and the weather is relatively bright and mild, so people naturally don`t want to think about winter just yet. However, by putting a few measures in place now, particularly if you are looking to sell your home, then you and your buyer could be reaping the benefits of taking energy efficient action early and heading off any larger than necessary bills this winter. Statistics from the Energy Saving Trust reveal that a typical household will spend over half its annual income on fuel bills. However, there are a few simple steps sellers can take to winter smart their home – saving energy, money and demonstrating good practise to potential buyers. Here are some top tips on how to save energy and money: • Check your loft insulation is thick enough and in good condition. A depth of 11 inches is recommended, and insulating your loft effectively could say up to £180 a year. • Bleed radiators to get rid of any air inside which may lead to increased bills if the water can`t heat up effectively. • Turning the room thermostat down by just one degree can save around £30 a year. • Insulating a hot water cylinder with a well-fitted jacket could lead to an average £45 a year saving. • Use energy efficient light bulbs that use less energy and last up to 10 times longer than standard bulbs. • By fully draught proofing your home (including windows, keyholes, letter boxes and loft hatched) you could save an average of £55. • Turn off household appliances such as microwaves, TVs, videos, music systems, and computers when not in use, as they continue to use energy when they are left on standby. • Defrost your fridge frequently and check the door seals. • Boilers account for around 55 per cent of what is spent on energy bills in a year. Replacing an old boiler with an A-rated energy efficiency condensing boiler and improving heating controls could save an impressive £310 a year. • If you have a standard shower it will use around 40 per cent of the water required for a bath

Help To Buy Scheme Available Early

Mon, 07 Oct 2013 12:00:00 GMT

A scheme to help thousands of people buy their own home will be launched next week – three months earlier than planned. The scheme was due to start in January 2014 but the government has announced that people will be able to start applying for the new mortgage guarantee from next week. Several high street banks will be offering the new Help to Buy mortgages to customers, ranging from 80 to 95 per cent of the property`s value. The mortgages – backed by the government – will help thousands of people buy new or existing homes up to a maximum value of £600,000. It is aimed at people who cannot get on the property ladder – or move to a new home – because they cannot afford the large deposit required, often up to 20 per cent. Under the new mortgage guarantee scheme, the buyer would only need a 5 per cent deposit. The government and the bank then jointly guarantees up to the next 15 per cent of the property`s value, in return for a fee paid for by the lender. To be able to offer the guarantees ahead of schedule, the government will be allowing lenders to start writing loans that will become part of the scheme once it opens in January. Because lenders know that they will be able to purchase a guarantee on these loans when the scheme opens in January, it means that they are able to offer high loan to value mortgages, much sooner. Only repayment mortgages will be offered under the scheme. There will be tough checks to make sure buyers can afford their mortgage payments and the borrowers income will be verified. The scheme will not include interest-only or self-certified mortgages. The new mortgages will not be available to people with a history of difficulties making debt repayments. Announced by the Chancellor at Budget 2013, the Help to Buy scheme has two parts, equity loan and mortgage guarantee. Under the equity loan scheme, the government provides a loan of up to 20% of the value of a new build home, interest free for the first five years. The Help to Buy: mortgage guarantee scheme will be available for three years up to January 2017. Every September the government and the Bank of England Financial Policy Committee will review the impact of the scheme and examine whether the fees or the price cap should be adjusted. If any future government proposed to extend the scheme beyond its three year life the FPC would need to agree.

Keep The Thieves At Bay As The Days Grow Shorter

Fri, 11 Oct 2013 12:00:00 GMT

With British Summer Time soon drawing to a close and the nights are drawing in, now is the perfect time to start thinking about protecting your property. Whether you are selling your house or preparing to move into a new home, safety and security are paramount. Home Office crime figures (2010-2011) show a 14 per cent increase in domestic burglary levels – according to the most recent British Crime Survey on the subject. So don`t give the burglars any opportunity to strike when the clocks go back. Independent estate & Lettings Agents Lesters have some practical tips and advice. Property Manager Holly Weston states: `As we move further into autumn and winter, the days and nights are obviously getting darker, but we aren`t suggesting that people live in fear. `It is simply about adopting a practical, common sense approach in assessing safety measures in your existing or new home.` Consider installing motion-sensitive lighting fixtures above front doors, porches, garage doors and entrances to back gardens. Fit timers to indoor lights when you are out for the evening or going on holiday. If you are moving into a new property, familiarise yourself with the alarm and set a new passcode. Securely bolt or padlock side/ back gates. Be letterbox aware. As vehicle theft becomes more sophisticated and often to order, thieves turn to letterboxes to obtain keys. Make sure you put these and other valuables out of easy reach and sight of the front door. Put your mark on valuables with a UV pen – a discreet way to identify your items if they are stolen. Sheds. Many sheds are used to store cycles, garden equipment and tools. Ensure you have a sturdy padlock on your shed door. The same goes for your garage. Don`t get caught out online. Be careful about what personal information you divulge on social media. Opportunist thieves are turning to Facebook and Twitter to target unsuspecting victims, so don`t give too much information away regarding your whereabouts. Never reveal that your property is empty. Be a good neighbour and join the local Neighbourhood Watch group. If you are new to the area, this is also a great way of getting to know your neighbourhood and meeting new people.

Winterproof Your Home Now

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 12:00:00 GMT

As the Met Office issues a severe weather warning for strong winds, freezing temperatures and snow across many parts of the UK this week, Halifax Home Insurance offers some timely advice to help homeowners avoid the misery of burst pipes and windstorm damage. Last year, Halifax Home Insurance handled 26,874 windstorm damage claims, which cost more than £15.5 million in total to put right. The insurer also registered 21,739 claims for burst and frozen pipes, costing an average of £1,779 per incident to fix. Senior claims manager for Halifax Home Insurance, Martyn Foulds says: `With severe weather forecast over the coming days, now is the ideal time to carry out some essential home maintenance checks. Prevention is certainly better than cure, and many winter home emergencies can be avoided if householders spend just a small amount of time preparing for the imminent bad weather.`

Start 2014 With A New Years Resolution, Find Out What Your Homes Worth.

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Start your New Year with a valuation on your property from Lesters. With over 21 years` experience in the area we know the value of your property. Even if it`s just getting an idea of the price in an ever changing market it`s always good to know what your most expensive asset is worth. Our advice is free you don`t need to be thinking of selling now and we are happy to give you our experience in the area and let you know how much your property is worth. We look forward to hearing from you give us a call, drop us an email, twitter, Facebook or just pop in! James & Julian Partners at Lesters

Buying A House Is More Stressful Than Having A Child?

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Which? Mortgage Advisers has revealed that buying a house is viewed as one of the most stressful life experiences, with nine in 10 people considering it taxing. The dream of getting a foot on the property ladder – one of life`s most momentous occasions – is actually one of life`s most stressful events, according to new research. The process of buying a house topped the stress list at 91% above other major milestones including having a child (81%), changing jobs (87%) and retiring from work (43%). In spite of Government initiatives such as Help to Buy helping first-time buyers onto the property ladder, many are unprepared for how long the house-buying process will take. Moving day (87%) and finding the right house (80%) were identified as two of the most demanding moments closely followed by securing the right mortgage, with three-quarters (73%) of people saying they think it is stressful. Consumer trust in the mortgage industry is low with just a quarter (25%) of people with mortgages saying they trust the industry to act in their best interests. Over-complicated language and terminology is also a problem for consumers, with over half (52%) saying they found all the language and terminology used in the process of arranging a mortgage confusing. Seven in 10 (68%) people with a mortgage want to see the process of arranging a mortgage simplified, which is how a dedicated mortgage adviser can help. To enable people to go through the process Karen Marshall Lesters Financial Adviser is local and offers a handy mortgage calculator for people to work out how much they can borrow. Karen will try to take the stress out of applying for a mortgage guiding people through the process step by step. Available at either office or Karen will pop to your home after hours to suit you.

Naea And Arla Make Joint Appeal To The Chancellor

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 12:00:00 GMT

A major theme for this year`s Budget needs to be the supply of homes and more specifically, mobility in the property market. Having a place to call home is of utmost importance to every one of us, whether we own or rent. To ensure this is possible and affordable, the Government needs to address the restrictions people face when finding a place to live. NAEA and ARLA members are therefore calling on the Chancellor to support mobility in the property market by: Addressing the unfair and hugely expensive Stamp Duty slab structure which restricts home ownership; and reiterating support for institutional investment in the private rented sector by fully regulating the industry Affordability is a central issue and the introduction of the Government`s Help to Buy scheme has offered a welcome boost to buyer confidence. However, costly barriers still need to be addressed – namely the thousands of pounds demanded up front in Stamp Duty. Stamp Duty, in its current ‘slab structure`, distorts the UK housing market, acts as a barrier to first-time buyers and therefore restricts the demand to build new homes. Help to Buy is a good temporary measure, but tackling the unfair and hugely expensive Stamp Duty is an achievable, long-term and sustainable way to support access to, and mobility up, the housing ladder. For those who choose to rent, or cannot afford to buy, many will have experienced first-hand the tight supply of the UK rental market. Demand for private rented housing has seen sustained and consistent growth over the past five years. For the first time since the 1960s, more people now live in private rented accommodation than in social housing, with 3.8 million tenants – a 30% rise over the last five years. Pressures are acute, and yet the industry remains unregulated. Restricted supply leads to increases in rogue landlords and the number of tenants forced to choose inadequate properties. ARLA has always campaigned against poor practice and our members adhere to a professional code of conduct. As a consequence, we urge the Government to introduce a full mandatory regulation of agents. Regulation will bring two key benefits: better standards for those using industry services and, a much needed stamp of professionalism and quality on the lettings industry which will help trigger the much-needed investment in a large-scale development of homes by professional organisations. The industry needs to be seen as stable, attractive and above all comprehensively regulated in order for significant investment to be secured. This needs to happen so that we all have a place to live. Lesters and the partners are active members of NAEA and ARLA.

Lesters `Buy To Let` Evening.

Tue, 18 Mar 2014 12:00:00 GMT

If you are thinking of buying a property to let Lesters are holding a ‘buy to let` evening on Tuesday 22 April at their Wallingford office. The Partners James, Julian and Holly the Property Manager will be on hand with Karen the Financial adviser are available to give advice whoever you decide to buy a property through! We will stay open until much later in the evening, the easiest spot to park (with two hours free) is the Goldsmiths Lane car park behind the old Waitrose building. Please contact us at Wallingford on 01491 824000 with any questions, no need to book, just turn up.

Lesters London Exhibition

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are holding a South Oxfordshire Property Exhibition at their busy London office on the 24 April 2014. Past exhibitions have proved a great success with potential buyers visiting a showcase of the company`s properties at the offices at 121 Park Lane, London, opposite Hyde Park. For a free valuation of your home and to see whether your property could be featured at this event then please contact Richard on 01491 824000 for more Information

Lesters Welcome `Matt Parker` To The Fold

Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters welcome Matt Parker to their expanding Wallingford team. Born and bred in Wallingford Matt has lived in the area his whole life and his family live in the town. A familiar face around the town he used to manage the Gym in the town and started his career in agency many years ago working for one of the national corporate firms in the area. Using his vast experience of the local area and knowledge of the housing market Matt relishes the ability to pass his knowledge on to house buyers and sellers alike. Matt also enjoys the flexibility that living in the town brings to the job role. In his spare time Matt enjoys most sports especially football and can regularly be seen around the town walking his dog ‘Poppy` with his wife Amanda.

A Big `Thank You` From The Wallingford Team

Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:00:00 GMT

A big thank you to Dorrit & Ed buying in Cholsey through us. It`s always appreciated when we get the cards and gifts we know buying a selling is a stressful time it is really appreciated! Richard and the team

Do You Trust Your Estate Agent?

Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:00:00 GMT

The age old problem of consumers not trusting estate agents continues right across the UK, with over 90% of homebuyers now calling for compulsory regulation to better protect buyers, according to an RICS survey. Of those who failed to check whether their agent was a regulated member of a professional body, only half (54%) said they trusted them to provide honest and truthful advice. With no statutory regulation currently in place to ensure sales agents are suitably qualified to sell property, and with public confidence at such a low level, understandably, the overwhelming majority (91%) believe that buyers would be better protected if compulsory regulation were introduced. While all sales agents are legally bound to offer a customer redress scheme, those who are not members of a professional body are not obliged to meet minimum competency standards or subject to the scrutiny of regulatory monitoring. This means that consumers are potentially dealing with an agent who, while technically abiding by existing legislation, could be providing inaccurate advice. Only agents who belong to a regulated professional body, such as RICS, are duty bound to a strict ethical code and obliged meet minimum competency levels. If RICS agents fail to act in accordance with rules of conduct, they are subject to regulatory investigation and if found to have acted inappropriately are subject to sanctions. In extreme cases, agents can potentially lose their chartered status. Peter Bolton King, RICS Global Residential Director, said: "These results show a shocking lack of consumer trust in the estate agency profession. Clearly, when people are making the biggest purchase of their lives, they want to know that they can trust their agent and the advice they`re given. People who are buying or selling a house should always check that their agent is a regulated member of a professional body, such as RICS, who abide by ethical codes. "By using an unregulated estate agent, people are potentially dealing with someone who doesn`t understand their obligations to consumers. Although all estate agents must have a redress scheme, these only deal with complaints once something has gone wrong. This is like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted. What is needed is compulsory regulation for all agents that helps to raise standards and prevent problems from occurring in the first place. Lesters are active members of the NAEA, ARLA and The Guild of Professional Estate Agents and support statutory Regulation of Estate Agents. Branch Partner James Gesner comments; If an agent provides a transparent, professional service there should be no issues with them complying with the guidelines. In other professions this accountability exists why not in ours?

Get Down To Wallingford This Sunday The 7th December

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Featuring live entertainment throughout the day, with Christmas activities and fun for all the family, and many market stalls selling festive treats in the Market Place. This year we will be marking Christmas at War Time, reflecting on the previous world wars and more recent conflicts. There will be plenty of opportunities to buy gifts in the town`s independent shops and businesses. The ‘Christmas Countdown` is at 17.00, and the annual switching on of the Christmas tree lights will be followed by a spectacular firework display. A great way to finish what we know will be a very happy and enjoyable day!

On The Search Locally For Cheap Christmas Bubbly

Tue, 02 Dec 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Good Housekeeping took on the onerous task of taste testing numerous bottles of bubbly and the results are as follows. For shopping locally to Wallingford and Didcot it deemed the Waitrose Champagne `Elegant, round & fruity champagne` Round and fruity with gentle toasty notes, and a zing from the Chardonnay. Fantastic value and perfect as a celebratory aperitif. It was also a Bronze Medal Winner in the Champagne and Sparkling World Championships 2014 at just under £20 a bottle. Tesco are selling Louis Delaunay Champagne Brut is £8 per bottle until Tue the 2nd Dec. At full price this bottle is £25.99 but it`s often reduced to £13. This is the first time we`ve seen it at £8 though, so it`s a corking deal if you`re planning on stocking up for Christmas. It`s available online and in store if available. However on writing this article it was unavailable online and the local store in Didcot. Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut is currently on offer at £9.99 a bottle at Aldi, soon to be opening up the road in Didcot. Usually this bottle is £11.99. One of the more affordable bottles in the lineup, with many of the Champagnes clearing the £30 mark. However, for the cheapest, look no further than Lidl in nearby Oxford whose £11.99 Comte de Senneval Brut Champagne is reportedly selling in bulk. Other supermarkets didn`t fare as well, though, with offerings from Sainsbury`s and Morrisons both failing to hit the target, despite costing nearly as much as the winning Waitrose wine.

A Really Special Thank You To Our Clients

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 12:00:00 GMT

We are taken back by the generosity from one of our recent clients selling their family home. I know it`s the festive season however Fortnum and Mason gifts are really overwhelming. A sincere thank you from Richard, Matt & Julian at Wallingford.

Looking Back On 2014 And Expert Predictions On 2015

Mon, 05 Jan 2015 12:00:00 GMT

To judge the state of the UK housing market it may be best to look beneath your feet. Carpet and floor fitters say that a buoyant market means more trade and, after a post-recession slump, things have started to pick up. They say that movers are spending more money on instant refurbishments and stayers are trading up on the quality of their carpets. So, does this experience match price predictions for the UK housing market in the coming year? Not quite. Analysts are suggesting slower growth in 2015 than was the case in the year just gone. Somewhat rarely, there is near consensus among them on what that growth in property prices will be - about 4%. Last year remembered......................................... The UK housing market saw a spring and summer boom in 2014, particularly in London and the South of England, before activity dropped away a little towards the end of the year. Recently published figures from the Nationwide Building Society - the first to record the annual change over the whole of 2014 - suggest that UK house prices rose 7.2% during the year. This is based on the Nationwide`s own lending data and masks some significant regional differences. For example, prices in London rose by 17.8% over the course of the year, according to the lender, compared with 1.4% in Wales. Another survey, by rival lender the Halifax, says that prices rose by 8.5% over the year, although its official house price index data has not yet been published. The rise in prices and activity is reflected in the number of people buying carpets. Wilf Walsh, chief executive of Carpetright, says that the outlook is "mixed", but there are signals of pent-up demand being released. Housing signs The UK housing market saw more activity in 2014 than at any time since 2007 As may be expected, these home improvements are lagging slightly behind transaction levels in the housing market, with buyers perhaps waiting a few months in their new home before spending more on laying new carpets. House sales were consistently above 100,000 a month in 2014, according to seasonally adjusted figures from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). It is the first time this has been the case since 2007. The Year ahead............................................... Activity levels are unlikely to change very much in 2015 compared with last year, according to Ray Boulger, from mortgage brokers John Charcol. His house price prediction for 2014 looks to be among the most accurate, and in 2015 he has suggested - like many others - that UK house prices will grow by 4% on average. He says that the general election is likely to dampen activity in the housing market until the result is known, but that recent changes to stamp duty will have little effect. He also says he will not be surprised if the Bank rate - a key factor in determining the level of mortgage interest rates - could end the year at the current, record low level of 0.5%. Estate agent and housing expert Henry Pryor admits that he underestimated the effect of government stimulus measures on the housing market and prices in 2014. He too predicts a 4% rise in prices in 2015. The lid could be kept on prices, he says, owing to some "nervousness" among potential high-value property buyers, especially in London. Miles Shipside, director of Internet property portal Rightmove, says that this will lead to prices picking up further out from London in the South East of England as families look for more affordable homes within commuting distance of the city.

Lesters Looking To Support Local Charity

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Our two offices, in Wallingford and Didcot are looking for recommendations for a local charity to raise money for during 2015. During the last 22 years we have helped various clubs, schools and charities, and we will of course continue to do this. Many of you will recognise our sponsorship boards which go up throughout the year which have sponsored local events like Rugfest and the Bunkfest as well as additional charity and school events. We are a local Independent business with all our staff living and working in the immediate area. We are keen to find a local charity to support throughout 2015 and we would welcome any suggestions from local people please. Your opinion will be counted so please contact us at either office, by email, or use facebook or twitter. Thank you!!

How To Choose An Estate Agent That Wont Drive You Crazy!

Fri, 23 Jan 2015 12:00:00 GMT

How to choose an estate agent who won`t drive you crazy according to a recent article in the Daily Telegraph on the 18 January 2015. Picking the right estate agent to market your home can make a difference, not only to the price, but to the experience. Most Brits have little faith in their agent, but good ones can be found. Estate agents can seem about as popular with the British public as traffic wardens. Yet, a good agent who understands the market is worth their weight in gold when selling a property. Many of us approach selling our homes with the same trepidation we`d feel if we had to organise three back-to-back weddings and a company takeover. The list of what can go wrong is daunting – offers are withdrawn; valuations fail; leaseholds become a minefield; contracts get delayed; surveys scupper a deal; and emotions fray. There are plenty of good agents out there. It`s just a case of knowing what you should be looking for. It`s also worth viewing agents` websites from a buyer`s point of view, says Simon Gerrard, President of the National Association of Estate Agents. `How easy is the website to use for buyers? Consider how they present property to attract buyers, such as the quality of pictures and floor plans and if they make use of videos.` Another important aspect is how many potential buyers they can put your property in front of. `You should look at what web portals the agent is on,` says Gerrard. `The better agents will apply search engine optimisation of their own website and the properties advertised on it.` Experts agree it is crucial to get a marketing appraisal for your home from at least three estate agents before picking one. The big mistake, however, is to be seduced by a high valuation. Homeowners Alliance recommends picking an agent you are impressed by and who has given a low valuation, reasoning that you can always nudge it up. It warns that a bad agent will start with a high price and then try to talk you down once you have appointed them. Gerrard agrees: `It is essential that the right asking price is set. Pitch it too high and you will lose the all-important initial impact, which could lead to your property sitting on the market months and eventually selling for less.` The question is, though, how do you know whether your agent is setting a fair price? One way is to do your own research by trawling internet sites such as Rightmove and onthemarket for comparable properties in your area. The other way is to find an agent with local market knowledge, a recognisable quality brand, prominent high-street office and good local reputation. And beware agents who simply employ people on commission to get listings because they are more likely to overvalue, forcing you to reduce the price later. Open house or individual appointments? Opinions on whether an open house is worthwhile are divided. Vendors with families find them more convenient and like to generate a `fight` for their property. Agents are more circumspect, believing that they can have an adverse effect in a depressed market, particularly if they don`t sell and have to be re-advertised. `The downside of an open house is that it can be intimidating for house-hunters to view with 20 other people. `If it goes to best offer, people can have second thoughts. The fevered buying climate created by open houses can be counterproductive. If you view as individuals, buyers have more time to think about things and make a more informed offer that is likely to go through to fruition.` Similarly, if the process takes too long, your agent needs to be on the case. `A decent agent should know that a high-street lender would book a survey within a couple of weeks and the solicitors should have been instructed,` `If not, we become suspicious. A good agent uses their instinct, knowledge and experience and would be checking.` The Checklist: - Look for a company with experience and a high profile in your area - Look to see whether the staff live locally and how long the company has been trading - Check how they present and market other properties - Consider posing as a buyer to find out how they treat you and whether they have the Client`s interests at heart - Ask whether they accompany viewers - Check the fee covers all marketing costs - Use a qualified agent, regulated by a body such as the NAEA; Guild of Professional Estate Agents or Property Ombudsman

Local Planning Applications Delayed By Two Weeks

Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Residents in South Oxfordshire and the Vale are being warned they face a fortnight`s delay for decisions on planning applications. The councils have been working to get their computer systems running following the devastating blaze at the council offices in Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, on January 15. South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Council staff who shared the offices have now been relocated. Residents are also being asked to delay submitting new planning applications for a couple of weeks so urgent issues can be dealt with. The deadline for comments on applications is also being extended by eight days. All planning applications and comments sent by post or online on Tuesday, January 13, or after have definitely been lost in the blaze

Council Offices May Never Re-Open

Thu, 05 Feb 2015 12:00:00 GMT

According to a recent BBC article local council workers may never return to the fire-damaged offices after a suspected arson attack. South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse offices in Crowmarsh Gifford were 85% gutted by a fire on 15 January. SODC Council leader John Cotton stated ‘We intend to take some time in considering the future of the Crowmarsh site` Staff are working from home and out of temporary offices while the council secures a temporary office for up to three years. There are 250 staff working at Abbey House in Abingdon while others are working from Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot and The Beacon in Wantage An assessment is due to be carried out on the building to see if repairs are viable or if the building will have to be knocked down and re-built. The council said it has roughly £4m business continuity cover, which will cover the additional costs caused by the fire. The planning department was badly damaged and the council has asked people to resubmit proposals sent in via post or online after 13 January. Mr Cotton stated ‘It`s in a pretty poor state - it`s pretty shocking inside - an assessment is being carried out to see if it`s worth the time and effort to repair it."

Lesters Supporting Local Charity `Footsteps` In Dorchester On Thames

Mon, 09 Feb 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters in Wallingford and Didcot are supporting ‘Footsteps Foundation` in Dorchester on Thames. Company Director Julian Walley commented ‘over the years we have supported a number of local charities and we will continue to support local schools, charities and events in the area. At the very beginning of the year we posted our Facebook page asking for peoples recommendations for a main local charity for support and ‘Footsteps` was continually recommended. All the staff from both local branches have now visited the facility in Dorchester on Thames which offers a really unique service and even more amazing is that it`s the only facility of its kind in the country for the children. Look out for events throughout the year that we will organise for fundraising this great charity. In addition to this we will be donating £50 for each and every property we sell at both offices from now until the end of the year to this worthwhile cause. So keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter pages and news articles throughout 2015 or pop into one of our High Street offices for any information, or simply to make a donation in one of our collection boxes. Registered charity number 1123440

Local Agents Report Busy Start With `On The Market`

Wed, 11 Feb 2015 12:00:00 GMT

You have probably seen the television adverts recently about on the market. The newest property portal supported by the majority of Independent Estate agents in the UK. Richard Lee Assistant Manager at the Wallingford office commented ‘ we have seen a steady increase in enquiries from the website over the last few weeks and although the portal is in its infancy it`s encouraging to find we are already getting some excellent leads from people in and out of our area`. Many leading local agents in Oxfordshire such as Strutt & Parker, Carter Jonas, Savills and Knight Frank are on board and marketing their portfolio with Rightmove will surely prove a winning formula. It`s certainly exciting times in the Industry with a genuine alternative out there, the comments we have been receiving from onthemarket users have been really positive. Make sure your estate agent is on the market and check out the fresh new portal www.onthemarket.com

Zoopla Confirms Loss Of Almost Quarter Of It`s Membership

Sat, 23 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

In its first results delivered to the City since the launch of OnTheMarket, Zoopla said it had lost 23% of its UK agency members as at March 31. OnTheMarket, with its `one other portal` rule had launched two months previously. Zoopla said it went on to lose another 106 agents in April. As at March 31, there were 12,449 member agents, down from 16,261 the previous year. Zoopla`s total membership – which includes developers, overseas agents and commercial firms – stood at 16,076, down from 19,239 the previous year.

Upcoming Dates For Your Diary

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Rugfest Lesters are pleased to be one of the sponsors again this year for the town`s summer music festival headlined by The Christians and Will and the People amongst many others, it`s for all the family and held as usual up at the Hithercoft on the 19th and 20th of June. Wallingford Beer & Blues Festival Celebrating 25 years and still going strong! This annual event is held at the Regal Centre in the town centre on the 12th and 13th of June, Headlined this year by Dr Feelgood & Chantel McGregor. Tickets are always available prior to the event from KP Stationers in the town for either day or a weekend pass.

Lesters, For All Your Rental Needs

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 12:00:00 GMT

When it comes to dealing with property rentals Lesters have been established in the town since 1992. Whilst we have a successful sales department all the staff are on hand to give advice on lettings. We look after and manage our properties from our established offices at 23 St. Martin`s Street in the town. If you are considering a ‘buy to let` property as a new landlord, are a current landlord and are looking at new options, or a tenant simply looking for your next property to rent then please call the office or pop in any time. The team headed by Debbie Walley all live locally and are happy to help in any way we can.

Share Our Experience On Facebook And Twitter

Tue, 09 Jun 2015 12:00:00 GMT

With over 85 years combined experience, let the Lesters team keep you posted on the local market and properties coming available before they appear on the major websites. With our Lettings & sales departments based at St. Martin`s Street, Wallingford since 1992 we provide an unrivalled wealth of knowledge and experience and are one of the longest established Independent agents in South Oxfordshire. Let us keep you posted and let you know what`s happening in the local property market. Like our facebook page in June and July and we are randomly selecting one person to receive £50 of John Lewis vouchers each month

Looking Forward To A Historic Weekend

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters are proud to be one of one the sponsors for the weekend`s `Siege of Wallingford` over this weekend the 27th and 28th June. With events in the Kinecroft, Castle Meadows and Gardens over the two days there are food and drink concessions on the Castle Meadows and space for picnicking. With no rain forecast it promises to be a great weekend. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday with special one day tickets for £2 and children are free!

On The Market Report Record Numbers

Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:00:00 GMT

OnTheMarket has reported record visits and unique visitors for June, using Google Analytics data. In June, the portal recorded 4.4m visits, with over 2m unique visitors. Chief executive Ian Springett said: `We are continuing to see strong engagement from consumers in terms of pages viewed per visit and time on site and a high percentage of repeat visitors. `This reflects both the quality and range of agents and properties listed with us and the usability of the portal. `Our ongoing multi-million pound national TV, press and online advertising campaigns continue to work really hard at driving active property seekers to OTM.`

River Mooring Plot Available

Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:00:00 GMT

With a small chalet on the plot, In a beautiful location just up from the Leatherne Bottle pub near Cleeve Lock.

Apartment In Unique Location

Fri, 03 Jul 2015 12:00:00 GMT

A one bedroom apartment situated in a great spot in this small hamlet along the Thames path from Wallingford. Juliet Balcony overlooking the stream at the rear with a lake to the front.

Four Bedrooms And A Great Kitchen

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 12:00:00 GMT

In Wallingford this four bedroom house has got a lovely new 24ft Kitchen/family room and a south facing garden.

On The Market On Course To Overtake Zoopla

Wed, 05 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

OnTheMarket has confirmed that it chalked up record visits for July – and chief executive Ian Springett says it is on a growth path which is on course to overtake Zoopla. Springett claimed OTM has achieved in six months what it took Zoopla three years to do. OTM said it had 5.2m visits last month, up 18% from the 4.4m in June. It uses Google Analytics as measurement. The site also claims to have attracted more than 2.4m unique visitors last month, which was an increase of 17% on June`s figure of more than 2 million

Three Bedroom Family Home Overlooking Fields

Wed, 05 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Large semi detached at the edge of Berinsfield village great location overlooking open fields

Three/four Bedrooms And A Short Walk To The Town

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

This property is in a tucked away location in a cul de sac, A 19ft kitchen/dining room and two double rooms and a single upstairs with a 17ft family room/4 downstairs. Great for a family.

Supporting Wallingford Community Since 1992

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

With a busy second half of summer ahead there is certainly nowhere quite live Wallingford to live and work! We are always proud to sponsor local events in the town and living here, with friends and families attending we look to support the community as much as possible. So whether it`s Beer & Blues, The Town Carnival or many of the local school fetes we are always happy to support the town in any way we can. With the Bunkfest upon us soon we look forward to helping out with our usual sponsorship including the beer glasses.

Bunkfest Is Coming

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Not long to go now! Proud sponsors of Bunkfest 2015 it`s almost upon us, don`t forget to get your beer glasses too, we cant wait!

Don`t Just Take Our Word For It!

Fri, 21 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Lesters in Wallingford have joined the Rateragent scheme. The scheme is developed to bring you honest, trustworthy and relevant reviews on the estate and letting agents that you`re thinking of using. Trust them. They have been checked out for their honesty and Integrity unlike the bogus reviews left on certain social media sites! These reviews are all cerified genuine and are from people like you who have used our services.

Four Bedrooms With A Huge Garden And Heated Swimming Pool

Sun, 23 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

In a great cul de sac location on the ever popular Brookmead Drive Estate in Wallingford. Available unfurnished at £1,400 pcm. Ideal for families.

Just Over A Week To Go Towards Bunkfest

Sun, 23 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Proud sponsors of the beer glasses again at this years event. Don`t forget yours Available at the event and in some pubs in the town. Yours to keep after Bunkfest, they do scrub up well in the dishwasher and we see them visiting peoples homes throughout the year!

Great Start To The Weekend

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 12:00:00 GMT

This great apartment overlooking the stream in Mongewelll is now Under offer. Anyone looking to sell theirs?

Difficult To Talk To Us During The Daytime?

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Find it difficult to talk during the daytime at work? Use our operator service on our website, just click on the logo and we can message you instantaneously during working hours. With operators in our sales and lettings departments available to take your questions we are finding people are increasingly using this service, rather than using your phone at work. Check out website homepage www.lesterspartnership.com

Property Rental Of The Week

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Character ‘chocolate box` cottage situated in a unique tucked away location a short stroll from the shops in Streatley and over the river in Goring. In a quiet walkway spot this cottage has been totally modernised by the current owner. Available immediately on a long term let, this would suit a professional person or couple. Contact Julian on 01491 824000 for further information.

Keeping Locals Posted Of The Latest Properties

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 12:00:00 GMT

We love social media but also the old fashioned approach! Check out our blackboard by our front door at our St Martins Street office in Wallingford for news of the latest properties coming onto the market.

Wallingford`s bonfire night

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Don`t forget this Saturday the 7th for the Bonfire and fireworks display behind the office here at the Kinecroft in Wallingford. Organised by the local charity Wallingford 1155 who organise a number of great local charity events, probably the most memorable the fireworks display and santa`s sleigh in December. See you down there!

Beat the stamp duty rise in March 2016 for buy to let Investors

Thu, 03 Dec 2015 12:00:00 GMT

This recently reduced maisonette is situated in the heart of Wallingford with it`s own parking space at £205,000 and a share of a freehold. This is an ideal buy to let investment. Contact the team at Wallingford for rental advice on this or any other potential buy to let, even if it`s not on the market with us!

Winterbrook win prestigious award

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook in Wallingford win prestigious award from Rateragent the National Independent verified review site. The company joined the review site earlier in the year and Director Julian Walley commented ‘we simply wanted to join a trustworthy, transparent dedicated estate and letting agent review site to illustrate our service to potential clients`. Each review on rateragent goes through 13 automated checks for authenticity. They are assessed by their Moderator Team who assess the score and also check social media and other resources to further prevent cheats getting through. Any reviews that look like they were written by the agent, their mum – or a competitor of theirs – is excluded Unlike other review sites and social media, agents are therefore incentivised to simply encourage real reviews from real clients and to stand or fall on what genuine customers are saying about them. Check out us and our competition! at www.rateragent.co.uk

Project in a sought after village

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 12:00:00 GMT

COMING SOON - This detached bungalow is situated in just under a third of an acre. Dean`s Hurst would suit someone who are looking for a renovation project ina rural setting. Call Richard at Lesters on 01491 824000 for more information

Big boost for On the market

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Two large agents Nottingham Estate Agency and Harrison Murray Estate Agency have announced their membership of OnTheMarket.com. Both part of the Nottingham Building Society, the two brands have a total of 37 branches. They will now be advertising all of their properties for sale and to rent at OnTheMarket.com and Rightmove. OnTheMarket.com announced on Wednesday, January 14th, 2016 that the level of overall support for the portal had risen beyond 6,500 estate and letting agent offices across the UK, which is an increase of more than 50 per cent since this time last year. The announcement comes eight weeks after OnTheMarket.com revealed support had exceeded 6,000 offices. The figure consists of contracted members and agents who have signed a Letter of Intent to join OnTheMarket.com when total support reaches 7,500 offices – which is OnTheMarket.com`s next major milestone. Ian Springett, Chief Executive of OnTheMarket.com, said, `We look forward to welcoming many more new members throughout 2016 as our momentum continues to build."

Winterbrook, For All Your Lettings Needs.

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 11:59:59 GMT

The lettings department at Winterbrook are now seeking more properties for good quality tenants waiting on their listings. If you are thinking of renting your property or are having no success with your current agent please give Debbie, Richard or Julian a ring on 01491 824000. We live and work here and have a knowledge of the market second to none! So if you are thinking of looking at a `buy to let` property we are happy to discuss the pro`s and cons pop in and have a chat even if it`s early days. We look after all our landlord`s properties from our long established office`s at 23 St. Martins Street in town so landlords and tenants can always drop in.

`Winterbrook` the new name for Lesters

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Welcome to ‘Winterbrook` the new name for Lesters. Although the name has changed the company, staff and office still stay the same. Julian, Richard, Debbie, Geraldine and Caroline remain as familiar faces. During the end of January the office is being completely refurbished and whilst it will probably appear on first impression that not a great deal has altered we have taken the opportunity to improve some of our marketing. Our clients still deal with the same established team on sales and lettings. This year we have expanded and welcome to the fold ‘Daisy May McCardle` on the sales and lettings side, an established Wallingford resident. Please pop in any time, we are always open until six during the week.

Welcome to the latest member of the team!

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook would like to give a big thank you to local people Dan Haines from Dan Haines Signs and Barry Cross from Hotcross Design for the new ‘Winterbrook mini`. With a picture of the iconic Wallingford Bridge emblazed on the sides of the car you will see the mini out and about South Oxfordshire showing potential buyers and tenants around our properties. So give us a wave when you see us out and about!

Advice on the latest stamp duty changes

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 12:00:00 GMT

If becoming a landlord was on your agenda this year, you`ll need to factor in a new 3% Stamp Duty surcharge which kicks in on 1 April, 2016. We heve investigated some answers to some important questions What is the 3% Stamp Duty surcharge and who pays it? The 3% is a loading on existing Stamp Duty rates (set out in the table below). First announced in the Chancellor`s Autumn Statement back in November, the new rules take effect from 1 April, 2016. To avoid the 3% surcharge, you must complete on the purchase of a second residential property by midnight on 31 March, 2016. That is unless you have previously exchanged on or before November 25, 2015. The extra tax applies to anyone who is buying additional residential properties, for example a buy-to-let or holiday home, within England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As Scotland (a devolved power in terms of property) announced a similar 3% surcharge in its own Budget, it will apply to the whole of the UK. What if the home I already own is abroad? You will be liable to pay the 3% surcharge even if the home you already own (or part-own) is abroad. So, if you have a holiday apartment in Spain and were buying your first home in the UK, you`d have to pay the 3% additional tax. How is the extra tax charged? Since the end of 2014, regular Stamp Duty has been charged as a tiered tax. This is like income tax, where you only pay the higher rate on the slice above any threshold. However, the 3% surcharge will still work as a slab tax which means it will apply to the entire purchase price of the property. As an example, if you are buying a second home that costs £300,000, the extra 3%Stamp Duty would equate to £9,000, or 3% of the entire price. If you add that onto the £5,000 regular Stamp Duty bill on a home of this value, you`d end up paying £14,000 in total. What if I am buying a second home for my child? If the second home you are buying is for your child and you already own a home, you will be liable for the 3% surcharge if your name is on the property deeds – even if it`s joint with your child`s name. If you bought the home for your child outright and just their name was on the deeds, the 3% surcharge would not apply. What if I am buying with a partner who doesn`t already own? If you have a second home and you are buying jointly with your partner who doesn`t already own, the 3% Stamp Duty surcharge will still apply. Just as if you were buying for your child, you may be able to escape the surcharge here by putting the property entirely in the name of the person who doesn`t already own a home. Ray Boulger, senior technical director at mortgage broker, John Charcol, said: `If you can`t satisfy the lender`s affordability criteria in just one person`s name, some lenders such as Metro Bank and The Woolwich, will allow you to put two names on the mortgage, and just one the property deeds.` However, if you were planning on doing this and you already live with your partner, HMRC`s tax avoidance provisions are likely to catch you out. What if I am letting my home to buy another one? If you move out of your main home (Home A), let it out and buy another one to live in (Home B), you will still be charged the 3% Stamp Duty surcharge. However, the government offers some reprieve here in that if you sell Home A within 18 months of completing on the purchase of Home B, you`ll get the 3% surcharge refunded. Details of exactly how should be confirmed today. What if I inherit a property? No Stamp Duty is payable on properties that are inherited, so the 3% premium is not relevant. However, if you have inherited a property and go onto purchase a second home without selling it, you will be hit with the surcharge. What if I am a professional landlord? The government is considering whether to exempt companies that own 15 or more properties from the surcharge on any further purchases. It`s also considering whether to exempt individuals (and companies) making bulk purchases of 15 homes or more. Can I set up a limited company to avoid the surcharge? The government has a keen eye on preventing tax avoidance. So while a professional landlord (as outlined above) will not be liable to pay the 3% surcharge, you won`t be able to escape it by setting up a limited company and buying an additional home that way. Can I just omit to tell my solicitor about the fact I already have a property? Solicitors and property lawyers are under instruction to ask buyers outright if they already own another property. If you don`t answer truthfully it`s tantamount to fraud and potential penalties could be a lot worse than meeting the cost of a 3% extra Stamp Duty. Final details should be confirmed today

Genuine review company now donate to homelessness charity

Thu, 14 Apr 2016 12:00:00 GMT

RaterAgent members Winterbrook are pleased to announce that the company are now donating to charity for every RaterAgent review. RaterAgent has partnered with homelessness charity, Emmaus UK, to donate 10p for every genuine review left on the RaterAgent site. Formally launched less than a year ago - in April 2015 - RaterAgent has already generated thousands of new reviews of estate and letting agents, all triple-lock checked to weed out fakes. From April 2016, every genuine review left on RaterAgent will now secure a 10 pence donation from RaterAgent to Emmaus. "We wanted to reflect the altruism shown by sellers, landlords, buyers and tenants in leaving reviews for agents by making a donation to Emmaus on their behalves," said Mal McCallion, CEO of RaterAgent. "Emmaus is a great charity, focused on helping homeless people by providing not just a bed for the night but a home, meaningful work and a sense of belonging. We`re enabling people moving home to directly help those that aren`t as fortunate as themselves, review by review, by giving 10p to Emmaus every time someone submits a genuine review – good or bad – to RaterAgent."

Record month for OntheMarket website

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 12:00:00 GMT

March was yet another record-breaking month in terms of traffic to OnTheMarket.com, with over 7 million visits to the site. It was also a record month in terms of property alerts and leads generated. The first quarter of 2016 has delivered more than double the amount of OTM app installs received during any quarter of 2015.

Don`t forget Wallingford Vehicle Rally & Parade in our town on Sunday 8th May

Sat, 30 Apr 2016 12:00:00 GMT

The parade leaves Wallingford Sports Park on HIthercroft Road at 11am and runs down St Johns Road, the Market Place, Winterbrook and then along Wantage Road and Station Road to the static show in the Kinecroft, the parade is usually over by midday when the displays start in the main arena. Local charities, food stalls and traders will be on site all day along with displays and charity car rides. Free admission but there will be bucket collectors on site, all monies raised go directly to local charities.

OTM hits 7,000 offices

Mon, 09 May 2016 12:00:00 GMT

OnTheMarket says it now has the support of over 7,000 estate and letting agency offices. This includes those formally contracted now and those who have signed letters of intent to join Agents` Mutual when the figure hits 7,500. A statement from the portal says its office tally has grown by over 1,650 since its launch in January 2015 and that in April it enjoyed its highest-ever number of visits - 7.25m according to Google Analytics. OTM chief executive Ian Springett has renewed his attack on what he calls "detractors" saying that: "It might be disappointing for some of our detractors but OnTheMarket is here to stay and, in spite of fierce competition, is growing steadily both in terms of consumer visits and agent support." He says that the sooner agents join OTM "the more powerful the portal will become in continuing to disrupt the duopoly and in providing a first-class alternative search service for consumers and agents alike."

Advertise your property on Countrylife

Tue, 24 May 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook in Wallingford are the only local agent advertising their portfolio of properties on the Countrylife website. Director Julian Walley comments ` This is a great opportunity as the only wallingford agents to advertise our properties on this premium site a great benefit to our clients especially in the mid to upper price ranges`.

Lettings market in South Oxfordshire remains bouyant

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Recent changes in the rental market doesn`t seem to have quelled interested in the rental market in South Oxfordshire states Debbie Walley, Property Manager at Winterbrook in Wallingford. ‘Although there has been recent changes in the stamp duty for investors it appears demand is still outstripping supply in this busy market town and surrounding area, Debbie continues. In fact there has been an increase in interest from clients old and new putting their properties on the market for rent with us. The bottom end of the market remains busy two recent examples of properties which are creating a great deal of interest are these two new instructions a one bedroom apartment at £695 pcm and two bedroom in Cholsey at £895 pcm. Established in 1992 we manage all our properties from the Wallingford office. The fact that we have the experience, local knowledge and the simple ability to pop in to our St. Martins Street Office any time is so important to our customers`. If you are thinking of buying an investment property in the area no one is better placed to advise you and remember you don`t need to buy a property through us to ask our free advice.

Collect your 2016 Bunkfest beer glass early

Thu, 07 Jul 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook are proud sponsors for the fifth year in a row of the Bunkfest in Wallingford. This year we have the glasses ready for collection early at our offices. So as the time approaches and you want to pick your pint glass in readiness for this great Wallingford event pop in and see us. Cost £1.20 (the same as at the event) with all proceeds going to the registered charity, beer not included sorry!

A month to go!

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 12:00:00 GMT

A month to go to our town`s greatest free family festival in it`s 15th year, the advertising boards are up and around the area. Winterbrook are proud beer glass sponsors for the fifth year running. We have a stock of glasses here in the office for anyone who would like to pick one up in advance of this great event. Any more information check out their great website at www.bunkfest.co.uk

Winterbrook sponsor Cholsey Bluebirds Under 13`s football team

Sun, 11 Sep 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook are proud sponsors of the Under 13`s Cholsey Bluebirds football team. Director Julian Walley commented.`As a local business we are always keen to support local teams schools and sports clubs. Whether it`s the Bunkfest or a fete at the local school we are always happy to support local teams and events in any way we can`.

Winterbrook`s new website

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Please check out our new website www.winterbrookestates.co.uk. for a view of Wallingford in a whole new perspective.

Wallingford`s 2016 Firework Display

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Held on Saturday 5th November at the Kinecroft in town. Organised by Wallingford 1155 organising and supporting a number of established charity events in the town including Father Christmas! The Loose Cannon Brewery will be providing the event with Ale and Pilsner lager, look out for their beer tents. Suggested donations are Adults £6 Children £3 The organisation is most well known for organising Santa`s Sleigh and the Town Fireworks as well as providing support to the other major events that take place in and around Wallingford. All the while supporting our local charities and organisations by including them in a multitude of ways.

Winterbrook open for Wallingford Christmas Sunday 4th

Mon, 28 Nov 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbook Estate Agents will be opening for `The Wallingford at Christmas shopping Sunday`. Our office at 23 St. Martin`s Street won`t be displaying properties though; instead we will have some fantastic historic shots of our town and the surrounding area. There is also a chance to win a Christmas hamper if you correctly guess the seven locations from our mystery pictures. You can contact us with your answers by email, phone, or simply pop in! During the following week we will continue to have the pictures on display and on our TV screens. Please pop into our office for a glass of wine on the 4th between 12-5pm where we will have further historic postcards and photos on display. *The draw will close on Sunday 11th December. Our Mayor Ros Lester will make the draw for the hamper on the 12th December.

Guess these seven locations

Sun, 04 Dec 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Thank you everybody for coming in today it was great to see so much support for Wallingford! Test your local knowledge this week. These seven locations are displayed in our main window display all week, please email or drop your answers into the office at anytime. Win a great Christmas hamper. The town Mayor Ros Lester will draw the winning questionnaire on the 12th December.

Get an online valuation of your property in seconds!

Tue, 20 Dec 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Knowing how much your property is worth is vital information before you put it on the market. Check out our Valuation tool on the front page of our website to get an online valuation in seconds. The data provided is based on local property price changes as provided by Land Registry but does not take into consideration major improvements made to the property or current local market trends. If you would like to book a professional appraisal with a partner with the local knowledge and experience please contact us.

House price predictions for 2017

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Chief property economists say the housing market recovered "remarkably quickly" after cooling immediately after the UK`s vote to leave the EU. Another major factor in the market over the last 12 months, according to the experts, is a lack of homes going on to the market. This supply squeeze has meant that, despite all the other pressures on affordability, prices continued to increase slightly. The constraint on supply proved to be more problematic than expected, according to Mr Rubinsohn of RICS, whose prediction of a 6% rise in house prices for 2016 looks to be the most accurate. This trend will continue, he says, many will continue to rely on the Bank of Mum and Dad for help with raising a mortgage deposit, while others will look to the government`s Help to Buy projects to find somewhere affordable. The experts have a relatively wide spread of predictions for 2017 - from slight price falls overall to rises matching or outstripping the general level of inflation. Martin Ellis, housing economist at mortgage lender the Halifax, is offering a hedge-your-bets prediction of between a 1% and 4% rise.

Your town`s cinema roof is leaking!

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Can you imagine our town without it`s theatre and cinema? Many of the smaller towns have lost their own cinema and people travel from far and wide to go to our Corn Exchange. Run by a fantastic group of volunteers who have turned into the brilliant venue it is today. Last month the team at Winterbrook were lucky enough to be shown around this fantastic building in the town. The 160 year old building`s roof needs to be replaced, the cost is huge at £500,000 but the reward is greater. Imagine the year without the pantomime or being able to have a sit down and a civilized drink whilst watching a film! The Sinodun Players need your support, the proposed work starts in July and will take four or five months to complete. Please support our theatre there is a full program me of events until July and you can still use the foyer and bar. Or if you can help by any contribution there is a special box in the foyer or just go to: www.just giving.com/sinodun-players Hope you can help in any way and keep this great facility for the town alive.

Want to find out what`s happening in our town?

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Sign up to Wallingford town council e News. Details are in our office window in town or go online www.wallingford.co.uk/signup

Congratulations to Cholsey Bluebirds Under 13`s football team

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Dave and the Cholsey Bluebirds under 13`s team and their promotion this season, our first year as the official kit sponsors. Well done boys and looking forward to a great season next year!

Have you seen the signs?

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

It`s that time of year again, only two weeks to go to Bunkfest 2017. We are continuing proud main sponsors of this great annual free event, look out for the fantastic newly designed beer glasses this year.

It`s coming this weekend!

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

We are`e nearly there Bunkfest is upon us again. Check out these great new Bunkfest glasses which we are once again proud to sponsor and are now in keeping in the Bunkfest theme every year and these are sure to become collectors items. If you want to pop into our office in town before the weekend in readiness and pick up a glass then please do they cost £1 (donations straight to the charity) they clean up fantastically in your dishwasher and you can use them time and time again. See you at the weekend!

Winterbrook continuing support for the Cholsey Bluebirds under 13`s

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Looking forward to another two years sponsorship of the under 13`s Cholsey Bluebirds football team. Good luck to Dave and his team for this season from the team at Winterbrook.

Location, Location, Location

Tue, 14 May 2019 12:00:00 GMT

TV presenter Phil Spencer has told The Negotiator Magazine that he`s worried that too few vendors who use online agents like Purplebricks really understand what they`re getting for their money. The Location, Location, Location TV show co-presenter says: `Online agents are nice and cheap but cost isn`t everything particularly when you`re dealing with your most valuable asset. Alot of the areas in and around the Home Counties are still £1,399 plus extra for additional services such as viewings, most of the time from staff who don`t have excellent knowledge and experience of the area like the High Street agents. Spencer, who also says Purplebricks have been featured in at least one of his TV show episodes, says he thinks estate agents should concentrate less on the volume of viewings they complete and instead focus on their quality. `There is some truth that if you throw enough mud at the wall then something will stick, and that if you take people to houses they can`t afford maybe they`ll find the extra money. But actually it`s better for all concerned if viewings are organised more efficiently.`

On the Market, takes on major developer

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 12:00:00 GMT

OnTheMarket has given the portal`s announcement that it has signed a deal with UK house building giant Barratt Developments a ringing endorsement, and said the portal generates better quality leads than its rivals.

The stockbroking firm also says the portal will soon sign more developers both small and large who are attracted to portals like OTM in slow property markets in order to reduce their marketing costs and yields.

Onthemarket also says it believes OTM is beginning to generate more agent engagement with its service and that it is on the rise while Rightmove`s is declining as agents become frustrated by its annual rounds of fee hikes.

Zeus Capital also predicts that OnTheMarket will eventually generate £10,000 per estate agent advertiser based on its current 60% market share of UK branches.

Proud continuing sponsors of Cholsey Bluebirds under 16`s

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook are proud to continue sponsoring the the Cholsey Bluebirds under 16`s football team. As a Wallingford business with staff who all live and work in the area we are happy to champion local companies, sports teams schools and events whenever we can.

Good luck to Dave & the team for the oncoming season!

The current tier five restrictions relating to our business

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 12:00:00 GMT

The government`s latest guidance questions and answers related the property Indusrty and Winterbrook in Wallingford with the current lockdown restrictions.

As always call us with any questions 01491 824000

Help for tenants with their deposits from TDS

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook register all their tenants deposits with TDS and on the 14th December 2020, TDS launched a new app to help tenants manage their deposit directly from their smartphones. With the launch of the app, TDS continues to lead the way in digital innovation, being the first and only deposit scheme to launch an app.

https://www.tenancydepositscheme.com/newsstory-new-tds.../

Part- time Weekend vacancy

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 12:00:00 GMT

Winterbrook have a vacancy for a weekend estate agent working in our busy Wallingford office.

Hourly rate depending on experience (£12 per hour typical rate) alternate Saturdays till 1/2 pm. Additional hours on Fridays also available which would help with Saturday work.

Previous experience is not essential as full training will be given. An outgoing personality is essential, and a good local knowledge a definate advantage. Car owner essential (mileage re-imbursed at 45p per mile) and good computer knowledge required.

For more information about this position within this small friendly team contact Julian Walley at julian@winterbrookestates.co.uk 01491 824000 or just pop in!