Are you tired of the frustrating process of searching for a rental property that meets your needs? It often feels like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially in today's competitive market. However, with the right strategies and tools at your disposal, you can improve your chances of securing your dream rental property. In this blog post, we'll share five proven tips to help you in your quest.
1. Define Your Ideal Rental Location
The first step in your journey to securing the perfect rental property is to define your ideal location. Take advantage of modern technology by using map-drawing tools available on popular property portals or by exploring Google Maps to check distances to local amenities. Beyond just pinpointing your preferred area, it's essential to delve deeper into your neighborhood research. Consider factors like school quality, public transportation options, nearby facilities, and even the overall vibe of the community. This level of detail can make all the difference in your decision-making process.
2. Thoroughly Research Your Chosen Area
Knowledge is power when it comes to securing a rental property. To make an informed decision, delve into the local rental market of your chosen area. Can you realistically afford to live there? What's the average cost of a suitable rental? Look beyond the surface and consider aspects such as crime rates and any planned future developments in the area. The more you know about your chosen neighborhood, the better equipped you'll be to make the right choice.
3. Utilize Search Filters
As you embark on your online property search, it's essential to make use of search filters effectively. Don't waste time sifting through irrelevant listings; instead, streamline your search results. Use keywords like 'garden' or 'parking' to filter homes that align with your specific criteria. Additionally, you can narrow down your search further by setting filters for price range, the number of bedrooms, and property type. By doing so, you'll save valuable time and energy in your quest for the perfect rental.
4. Prepare Your Finances and Paperwork
In today's competitive rental market, financial readiness is key. Ensure you've budgeted for the required deposit and one month's upfront rent. Beyond that, gather all the necessary proof of income to pass affordability checks with ease. Having your references in place and, if necessary, securing a trustworthy guarantor in advance can significantly boost your chances. Collect essential documents such as bank statements, pay stubs, and a comprehensive rental history to present a compelling case to potential landlords.
5. Stay Informed and Act Quickly
To stay ahead of the competition, take advantage of property alerts and notifications. Set up email alerts on popular property websites like Zoopla and Rightmove to receive timely updates on new listings. Additionally, consider signing up for Beal's property alerts in your desired location. These services provide instant notifications when new properties become available, giving you a competitive edge in the rental market. It's essential to regularly check your email and be ready to act swiftly when you receive alerts.
In conclusion, securing your dream rental property doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. By following these five proven strategies, you can streamline your search, be well-prepared, and significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect rental property. Whether you're meticulously defining your ideal location, conducting thorough area research, using search filters effectively, preparing your finances and paperwork, or staying informed and acting quickly, each step brings you closer to your dream home. To make your search even more efficient, head to our website to explore the fabulous rental properties we have on our books. With the right strategy and resources, you'll soon be settling into your ideal rental home.
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Are you ready to keep your garden looking stunning this summer? With temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels last year, it's crucial to have a solid plan in place to ensure your garden stays in tip-top shape. In this blog post, we'll provide you with valuable tips and insights to help you beat the heat and maintain a thriving garden throughout the summer season.
One of the most important aspects of summer garden care is watering. The scorching sun and high temperatures can quickly dehydrate your plants. Aim to soak your garden thoroughly once or twice a week to promote deep root growth. Additionally, be sure to give plants in hanging baskets and containers a daily drink as they tend to dry out faster. During periods of hot and windy weather, increase the frequency of watering to twice a day to prevent moisture stress. By establishing a consistent and adequate watering routine, you'll help your plants stay healthy, vibrant, and resilient to the summer heat.
While tending to your plants, keep a watchful eye for common garden pests, such as greenflies and blackflies. These tiny invaders can wreak havoc on your plants if left unchecked. Consult your local garden centre for expert advice on effective strategies to tackle these pests and protect your precious garden. They can recommend organic or chemical methods to control pests while maintaining the health of your plants.
If you have a greenhouse, it's essential to create optimal growing conditions for your plants during the summer. Set up shady areas using shade cloth or strategically placed potted plants to protect your greenhouse plants from direct sunlight. Additionally, spray the greenhouse floor with water in the morning to increase humidity levels, creating a conducive environment for growth. This simple step can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy and thriving plants throughout the summer months.
Proper lawn care is also crucial for a well-maintained garden during the summer. Experts recommend mowing your lawn regularly, but with a little and often approach. This means cutting the grass to a shorter length more frequently rather than letting it grow long and then cutting it all at once. This practice prevents stressing the grass and helps maintain its resilience during the hot summer days. Furthermore, consider composting the grass clippings gradually instead of allowing them to accumulate on the lawn. This allows the clippings to decompose and return vital nutrients back to the soil, preventing the underlying layers from being smothered and promoting healthy growth.
Creating a harmonious ecosystem in your garden can also contribute to its overall health and beauty. During extreme heat, provide food and water sources for birds and other wildlife. Consider installing birdbaths, bird feeders, and shallow dishes filled with water. These elements not only support the well-being of local wildlife but also attract them to your garden. In turn, they can assist in controlling pests naturally, creating a balanced and thriving ecosystem.
If you're planning to sell your house this summer, don't overlook the importance of an attractive and well-maintained garden. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with inviting outdoor spaces. A lush and vibrant garden can significantly enhance your property's curb appeal. Make sure to keep your garden tidy, weed-free, and well-manicured. Trim overgrown plants, prune shrubs, and add colourful flowers to create a visually appealing environment. Consider adding seating areas or outdoor features to showcase the potential for outdoor entertaining. For more tips on preparing your home to attract buyers, consult our expert team today. We can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and budget.
With climate change leading to more sizzling summer days, implementing these tips will help you keep your garden flourishing and beautiful throughout the season. Don't let the heat discourage you from enjoying your outdoor oasis. Follow these expert suggestions and make the most of the summer in your vibrant and thriving garden.
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For first-time Buyers the thought of purchasing your first home can be exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. It's a significant milestone that marks a new chapter in your life. However, with so many options available and various factors to consider, choosing the right home can seem like a daunting task. That's where this comprehensive guide comes in, providing you, as a first-time buyer, with valuable insights and tips to navigate the home purchasing process with confidence.
One of the most crucial steps for a first-time buyer is to determine your homeownership goals. Ask yourself why you want to own a home as a first-time buyer. Are you looking for stability, investment opportunities, or a place to raise a family as a first-time buyer? Understanding your motivations will help you set clear objectives and make informed decisions throughout the process as a first-time buyer.
Next, it's essential to prioritize your requirements as a first-time buyer. Consider factors such as the number of bedrooms needed as a first-time buyer, proximity to schools or workplaces as a first-time buyer, transportation links, and desired amenities as a first-time buyer. Creating a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves will help you focus your search and narrow down your options as a first-time buyer.
Managing your budget is another vital aspect of choosing the right home as a first-time buyer. Evaluate your financial situation, including your savings, income, and expenses as a first-time buyer. Determine how much you can comfortably afford for a mortgage payment and factor in additional costs like property taxes, maintenance, and insurance as a first-time buyer.
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Additionally, familiarize yourself with the different types of mortgage deals available for first-time buyers. Research interest rates, loan terms, and down payment requirements to find the best option that aligns with your financial goals as a first-time buyer. Consider seeking pre-approval for a mortgage as a first-time buyer, which can give you a clear idea of your budget and make you a more attractive buyer to sellers.
When searching for your ideal home as a first-time buyer, it's essential to be flexible. Your first home might not have every feature on your wishlist as a first-time buyer, but prioritize the elements that matter most to you as a first-time buyer. Consider the potential for future growth and improvements as a first-time buyer. Remember that you can make changes to the property over time to suit your needs and preferences as a first-time buyer.
Utilizing the services of a trusted estate agent can be invaluable for first-time buyers. They have extensive knowledge of the local market and can guide you through the entire process as a first-time buyer. Estate agents can help you identify suitable properties as a first-time buyer, arrange viewings, negotiate offers, and ensure a smooth transaction for first-time buyers.
In addition to working with an estate agent, take advantage of online listings and property search platforms as a first-time buyer. They provide a wealth of information and allow you to refine your search based on location, price, and property features as a first-time buyer. Set up alerts to receive notifications when new properties that match your criteria become available as a first-time buyer.
Attending open houses and viewings is an excellent way for first-time buyers to get a feel for different properties and neighbourhoods as a first-time buyer. Take your time during these visits to assess the condition of the home as a first-time buyer, the surrounding area, and the overall vibe as a first-time buyer. Don't hesitate to ask questions and request additional information or documents as a first-time buyer.
Once you find a potential home as a first-time buyer, conduct thorough due diligence. This may involve hiring a professional home inspector to assess the property's condition and identify any potential issues as a first-time buyer. Consider obtaining a home warranty or purchasing title insurance to protect your investment as a first-time buyer.
Finally, when you're ready to make an offer as a first-time buyer, work closely with your estate agent to develop a compelling and competitive offer strategy as a first-time buyer. They will help you navigate negotiations as a first-time buyer, ensure a fair price, and guide you through the closing process as a first-time buyer.
Purchasing your first home is an exciting and rewarding journey for first-time buyers. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and find the perfect home that aligns with your goals, budget, and lifestyle as a first-time buyer. Remember, patience and perseverance are key, and with the right guidance and preparation as a first-time buyer, you'll soon be unlocking the door to your new home as a first-time buyer.
MORTGAGES FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS
Furniture, and Accessories
An outdoor space can be a wonderful addition to any home. It allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while also providing a relaxing and comfortable space for entertaining and spending time with family and friends. However, creating an inviting outdoor space can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you're not sure where to start. In this article, we'll take a look at some tips and tricks for creating an outdoor space that is both beautiful and functional.
Choose the Right Plants
One of the most important elements of any outdoor space is the plants. They not only add beauty and colour to the space, but they also provide a sense of nature and serenity. When choosing plants for your outdoor space, it's important to consider the climate and the amount of sunlight the space receives. Some plants, such as succulents, are drought-tolerant and can handle full sun, while others, like ferns, prefer shade and moisture.
Another important factor to consider is the size and style of the plants. If you have a small space, you may want to opt for smaller, more compact plants. On the other hand, if you have a large space, you may want to choose larger, more dramatic plants that can act as focal points.
Add Furniture and Accessories
Once you have your plants in place, it's time to add some furniture and accessories to your outdoor space. The key is to choose pieces that are both functional and stylish. For example, a comfortable seating area is essential for entertaining and relaxing, while a dining area with a table and chairs allows you to enjoy meals outside.
When choosing furniture, it's important to consider the materials. Wicker and teak are popular choices for outdoor furniture, as they are durable and can withstand the elements. If you're looking for something a bit more modern, you may want to consider metal or plastic furniture.
In addition to furniture, there are many other accessories that you can add to your outdoor space. For example, a fire pit can provide warmth and a sense of ambiance, while a water feature can add a sense of tranquillity. Outdoor lighting is also important, as it can provide both functional lighting and a sense of ambiance.
Create Zones
Another important aspect of creating an inviting outdoor space is to create distinct zones. This means dividing the space into different areas that serve different purposes. For example, you may want to create a dining area, a seating area, and a play area for children.
Creating zones can help to make the space feel more intimate and functional. It also allows you to better define the different areas and make the most of the space.
Personalize Your Space
The key to creating an inviting outdoor space is to make it personal. This means incorporating elements that reflect your personal style and interests. This can be anything from a collection of outdoor artwork to a small herb garden.
Personalizing your space can also mean adding some of your favourite outdoor activities. For example, if you enjoy reading, you may want to add a comfortable reading nook with a few books and a cosy blanket.
Incorporate Privacy
Privacy is also an important aspect to consider when creating an inviting outdoor space. This can be achieved through the use of landscaping, such as tall plants or a privacy fence, or by positioning your outdoor furniture and accessories in a way that provides a sense of seclusion.
For example, if you have a small outdoor space, you may want to consider adding a privacy screen or wall to create a sense of seclusion. Or you can use natural elements like tall bushes and trees to block the view of the surrounding area.
Add a Touch of Colour
Don't forget to add a touch of colour to your outdoor space. This can be achieved through the use of colourful plants, outdoor artwork, or colourful cushions and accessories.
For example, you can add some colourful flowers and plants to your garden, or you can hang some colourful outdoor artwork on your walls. You can also add some colourful cushions and accessories to your outdoor furniture to add a pop of colour and make the space feel more inviting.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Creating an inviting outdoor space is not just about the initial setup and design, it also requires regular maintenance and upkeep to keep it looking beautiful and functional. This includes tasks such as watering and fertilizing plants, cleaning and maintaining furniture and accessories and keeping the space free of debris.
To make the maintenance process easier, it's important to choose plants that are low-maintenance and hardy. It's also important to choose furniture and accessories that are made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. Additionally, regular cleaning and upkeep of furniture and accessories can help to prolong their lifespan and keep them looking like new.
Final Thoughts
Creating an inviting outdoor space is a great way to enhance your home and enjoy the beauty of nature. With the right plants, furniture, and accessories, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional. Remember to choose plants that fit the climate and sunlight, add comfortable and stylish furniture and accessories, create zones, personalise the space, incorporate privacy and add a touch of colour. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating an outdoor space that you and your loved ones will love to spend time in. To make the process even easier, you can order beautiful flowers and plants from My Express Flowers, a company that offers a wide range of options to suit your needs and preferences.
Is your garden not quite big enough? Get an instant online estimate of your property's value in under 60 seconds. Want a more accurate price? Book a free valuation here and get advice on finding your ideal home.
With energy prices at a record high and set to increase even further, you might be thinking of ways to cut down your energy bills.
As Winter approaches, here are our top tips to help reduce your energy consumption and keep bills to a minimum.
Turn off sockets
A simple way to cut down energy consumption is to turn off appliances left on standby. You can use plug sockets that can be turned on and off via your phone, or use timer plugs to schedule appliances to be turned on and off.
Install a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats help reduce your energy consumption by allowing you to track your usage and giving you more control.
They only heat the rooms that you are using, learn how long it takes to heat a room and can be controlled by your phone so you can change the temperature whilst you're not in the house.
Energy efficient appliances
Whilst replacing a perfectly good appliance won't save you a lot of money, swapping old appliances for high-efficiency appliances is a worthwhile investment. Look for A+++rated appliances as these use less energy, helping cut your energy bills.
Cooler clothes washes
Washing clothes at a lower temperature helps reduce your energy consumption, and if you can condense the number of cycles you do per week this will cut your usage further.
Stop the draught
Retaining heat in your property is key to cutting your energy consumption as a draughty home can cause it to lose heat quicker, making you want to keep your heating on for longer.
Investing in double glazing helps insulate your home, as well as sealing cracks, lining your letterbox and blocking unused chimneys.
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About Bitterne
Bitterne is a thriving community, bordering Sholing to the west and Harefield to the north. It is a suburb of the city of Southampton, with its maritime history and docklands, that serve the thriving cruise industry.
While Bitterne has no significant industry to speak of, it is a quiet enclave for residential homes, with open parkland, tree-lined streets and a slower pace of life compared to the city.
As you would expect, transport links are excellent. Bitterne sits at the junction of the A34 and the A3024, giving easy access to the M27 motorway. It also has good rail links, thanks to Bitterne Railway Station, and catching a bus into the city is easy with a first-class bus service.
History of Bitterne
From Roman settlements to medieval manor houses, Bitterne is steeped in history. The name derives from the old English words Byht and Aern, which means “house near a bend.” This is most likely a reference to Bitterne Manor, located on the bend of the River Itchen.
Bitterne Manor sits on the site of Roman Clausentum, which is the forerunner of the city of Southampton we know and love today. The house still commands views over the River Itchen, but modern apartments vie for position on the former grounds.
Famous visitors to the manor include Robert Kilwardby, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the novelist Nicholas Freeling, who wrote the Van Der Valk detective novels.
Bitterne was never mentioned in the Domesday Book, but it does appear in records from the 11th century. By 1665, the settlement of Bitterne consisted of 75 people and 14 dwellings.
For almost 600 years, Bitterne was an agricultural community. It wasn’t until the early 1800s, with the construction of the Northam Bridge, that transport routes opened up to help with the expansion of Southampton, and Bitterne began the transformation into the urban settlement it is today.
Bitterne richly deserves its reputation as a family-friendly place to live, with great schools, road and rail links and excellent facilities.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop in or email our team at the Bitterne office.
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“From Roman settlements to medieval manor houses, Bitterne is steeped in history. The name derives from the old English words Byht and Aern, which means “house near a bend.” This is most likely a reference to Bitterne Manor, located on the bend of the River Itchen.”
About Waterlooville
Waterlooville is the perfect commuter town. It is handily situated about 2 miles north of Portsmouth, making it an ideal residential area for those who work in the city.
You get a nice mix of town, urban and countryside with the outlying villages of Catherington, Blendworth, Cowplain, Hambledon, Horndean and Widley. There are several junctions accessing the A3, which take you south to Portsmouth, Chichester and beyond, as well as Petersfield and eventually, London.
The newly completed Hindhead Tunnel has slashed the congestion and the travelling time to the capital, making Waterlooville the ideal residential location for those holding down a job in London.
With several well-regarded schools and plenty of shops, pubs and public facilities, Waterlooville is the ideal spot to look for your new home.
History of Waterlooville
Waterlooville derives its name from the coaching inn that stood in the centre of the old village, in Wait End Lane. Legend has it that the returning soldiers from the battle of Waterloo disembarked at Portsmouth and caught the stagecoach which ran along the corridor of the old A3.
The pub was a stopping point for coach travellers, and many of the soldiers liked it so much that they decided to settle there, and so the name Waterlooville was born.
The original Heroes of Waterloo pub was demolished in 1966, but a new one stands to the north of the town bearing the same name.
Marconi built a facility near the town in the 1980s, where they developed their underwater defence systems, including the Stingray anti-submarine torpedo.
Today, Waterlooville is one of the best commuter towns on the south coast. It shares several junctions with the A3, and there is easy access to a railway station at Bedhampton.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop in or email our team at the Waterlooville office.
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About Southsea
Southsea is a little gem on the south coast, full of character, history, amazing buildings and famous sons and daughters. For a densely packed peninsula, Southsea has retained a sense of Victorian charm with wide-open spaces. Southsea Common spans some 480 acres next to the shingle beach, and the promenade has a vibrant cafe culture.
Southsea is a desirable place because it has everything you could want from a cosmopolitan city: some of the best restaurants and dining on the south coast, a pier, a funfair, and so much history, it would take more than a couple of paragraphs to list it all.
Southsea has excellent ferry links to Europe and the Isle of Wight, along with a railway station and major roads leading out of the city.
There is a large student population in Southsea, which adds to the vibrancy of the area. There is a mix of houses ranging from modern flats, converted Victorian sea-front villas, Georgian townhouses and large properties with a high-end price tag.
Whether you are a student, a first-time buyer or someone looking for their “forever” home, Southsea has everything you could possibly need.
History of Southsea
It might surprise you to learn that Southsea was largely unknown until the mid-16th century when Henry VIII ordered the building of Southsea Castle as part of extensive sea defences. Prior to the development of the fortifications, Southsea was largely farmland and marshland.
The land was originally owned by Thomas Croxton, and so when he started to develop the farmland in the early 19th century, it was originally called Croxton Town.
With the expansion of the dockyard, Southsea grew to accommodate the influx of workers, and the development continued. The town became fashionable during the 19th century, and it became a bathing destination for the middle and upper classes.
Most of the original streets still exist; however, Southsea was heavily bombed during the war, destroying much of the original buildings.
In the 1950s, Southsea underwent redevelopment, and many of the buildings we see today were constructed. While Southsea never quite recovered the visitor numbers it once enjoyed, it still grew through the 20th century and remained a popular seaside destination.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop-in or email our team at the Southsea office.
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About Portsmouth
Portsmouth is probably one of the most famous cities in the world. It has been the home of the Royal Navy since the time of Henry VIII. He stood on the battlements of Southsea Castle in July 1545, watching his flagship, the Mary Rose, sink into the Solent.
Today, the city is a thriving mix of industrial, naval, commercial and residential, with a significant military presence and a substantial student population. According to the 2011 census, the population has topped 200,000 people.
Many of the old waterfront docks and naval bases have been repurposed as high-end shopping and eating destinations. Gunwharf Quays is an excellent example of reviving redundant military sites like HMS Vernon and breathing new life into them.
As you would expect for such a grand city, there are excellent road, rail and sea links. It has many stations, bus routes and of course the International Ferry Port.
Portsmouth has got the lot.
It has the sea, quaint Georgian architecture, cobbled streets, modern buildings and a diverse community of old and young.
You can take in the charms of Old Portsmouth, with its winding streets and naval history seeping from every corner of the old buildings, or indulge in the nightlife of Guildhall Square, with bars, clubs and eateries.
Portsmouth is such a great place to live. It’s the reason why it is a thriving peninsula, as popular today as it was when the Romans first settled there.
History of Portsmouth
The Romans came in the late third century, building a fort at nearby Portchester. They called it Portus Adurni. For centuries, Portsmouth and the south coast was vulnerable to Danish Viking invasions, suffering devastating attacks that almost completely wiped out the English population.
Defences improved, and as the Kings came and went, so did the town’s military capabilities. Its strategic placement at the mouth of a deep harbour made it the natural choice for the home of the Royal Navy. Deep waters meant large ships and a narrow port entrance made it easier to defend.
The oldest working dock in the world is situated at the Portsmouth Dockyards, built-in 1495 by Henry VII, and No.1 Dock is still in use today. Portsmouth can also lay claim as the birthplace of the industrial revolution. Marc Isambard Brunel set up the world’s first mass-production line, established in the Portsmouth Dockyard Block Mills.
It became the world’s most industrialised site, employing over 8,000 people. Portsmouth boasts many famous names in history, from Charles Dickens or Isambard Kingdom Brunel to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Peter Sellers; the city has produced the great and the good.
This rich tapestry of history, achievement and pride is still felt in the old city today. Everywhere you look, there are reminders of a stately past, as well as green shoots of new industries, technologies and greatness yet to be written.
Portsmouth’s story is still unfolding, which makes the future all the more exciting.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop-in or email our team at the Portsmouth office.
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About Park Gate
Park Gate connects Locks Heath to the south, Segensworth to the east and Sarisbury to the west. It is a small town with a diverse mix of properties, ranging from town locations to country homes.
Much of Park Gate is rural, with farms and country estates, making it the ideal area to retire. That said, it doesn’t lack great road and rail links. The M27 runs alongside Park Gate, giving easy access to Southampton, and the A27 is nearby, servicing a large retail park to the south at Segensworth.
If you prefer the train, there is a station a few minutes walk from the town centre, and if you like a bit of retail therapy, restaurants and the cinema, Whitely should have enough to keep you smiling.
For those of you with sea legs, Swanwick and its many marinas and boatyards should have everything you need, thanks to the River Hamble.
Park Gate is popular with retirees and families alike, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience quiet English town life but with all the conveniences of retail parks, open spaces, restaurants and cinemas.
History of Park Gate
Park Gate has a relatively modern history compared to neighbouring towns and cities. It was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to service the vast strawberry industry that dominated the area.
In 1913, over 3,000 strawberries were distributed from Park Gate by road and rail, thanks to the oddly-named Swanwick railway station, even though it is in Park Gate.
Most of the town was developed during the 20th century, culminating in the expansion of Segensworth commercial and retail park to the south and Whitely to the north.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop-in or email our team at the Park Gate office.
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About Havant
Havant lies between Chichester to the east and Portsmouth to the west, and like many other towns on the A3 corridor, it has excellent road links. Couple that with the main bus station situated in the town centre, and you can see why so many people like to call it home.
There are many outlying villages to choose from if you fancy something more rural. There’s Rowlands Castle, Bedhampton, Langstone and Hayling Island, with its beaches and large open spaces.
There are also major roads within easy reach. The A27, the A3 and the M27 are a short hop away, making it ideal for people commuting to the neighbouring cities.
Havant has a great mix of affordable homes, like those found in Leigh park, and at the other end of the scale, high-end properties in the villages nestled nearby. It has the Meridian Shopping Centre, Tescos and a retail park with prominent high street names.
History of Havant
From raging fires, earthquakes and dancing bears, Havant has had a colourful past. Havant can trace its roots back to Roman and Anglo-Saxon times, like so many towns and cities on the south coast.
Havant is famed for its natural springs, with one still in existence near the southwest of St. Faith’s Churchyard. In 935 AD, Havant was called Hamafunta, which means the spring of Hama.
In 1086, Havant had a population of 100, and the primary source of industry was water from the springs, producing beer and parchment. The last parchment manufacturer closed its doors as late as 1936, and rumour has it that the Treaty of Versaille was signed on Havant-made parchment paper.
The old town was ravaged by fire in 1760, leaving the church and a cluster of houses still standing. Today, they are the Old House at Home pub, which boasts a central beam from the Spanish Armada and a bear post that is reputed to be the location of the last dancing bear in England.
Havant has even suffered two earthquakes, one in 1784 and the other in 1811.
If you want to live in a place that drips with ancient history, incident and intrigue, Havant has everything you could possibly want.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop-in or email our team at the Havant office.
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About Shirley
The former village of Shirley sits on the western side of Southampton. It is the ideal place to live if you want the best mix of house styles, prices and locations. There are affordable homes for first-time buyers and a blend of mid-priced and high-end houses to suit every bank balance.
Shirley is primarily a retail and suburban location, with great road and bus links to the city of Southampton. It has schools, libraries and many other facilities that you could possibly want when settling into a new area.
If you want all the convenience of big city life without the downsides, try settling in Shirley. You get a little bit more for your money but retain all the road and transport links associated with a significant hub like Southampton.
History of Shirley
Shirley is mentioned in the Domesday Book as Scir Leah, which means bright clearing in the woods. It was listed as a manor with a mill and three mill ponds. The ponds were situated just north of the Winchester Road, and one still remains today at the Lordswood Greenway.
Shirley’s industry consisted of an ironworks, a brewery, and a Royal Mail laundry to service the mail ships visiting Southampton.
Today, Shirley is largely a residential area with dense housing stock and a large council estate built in the 1960s to replace rows of older terraced houses.
For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop in or email our team at the Shirley office.
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“If you want all the convenience of the city without the downsides, try settling in Shirley. You get a little bit more for your money but retain all the road and transport links associated with a significant city like Southampton.”
