harvey-homes

THE PARADE | AVAILABILITY

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 12:05:21 GMT

Commercial Units: 32/34, 36, 40

Located across from Urmston’s local railway station on Flixton Road, is The Parade (32-40 Flixton Road). The location offers convenient access to all the amenities and facilities the town has to offer. Plus, it’s just a short stroll away from Urmston train station, making it incredibly convenient for commuting or exploring further afield. In fact, you can reach Manchester City Centre in just 16 minutes

The Parade scheme currently has the following commercial units available to let:

32/34 Flixton Road
36 Flixtonn Road
40 Flixton Road

The units are currently being marketed by Lyons Thomas Letts & Regional Property Solutions. For more information on The Parade, please see our marketing brochure here:

SWAN GREEN | AVAILABILITY

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:38:01 GMT

4 Oak Tree Lane, Lower Peover.

£975,000

Swan Green is a hidden gem of 30 bespoke luxury homes in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and our former show house is now on the market for sale with Irlams Estate Agents in Knutsford

Please see their marketing brochure for more information and contact details.

TOWERS ROAD

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:23:37 GMT

This spacious site in Poynton, Cheshire features stunning countryside views to the east whilst benefiting from extensive west-facing gardens to capture the afternoon and evening sun.

The project achieved planning permission for a stunning four-bedroom bespoke home and was sold to a private buyer who wished to take on the project themselves.

Prestigious and sought-after location.
In 2020, Poynton was voted as the best town in Cheshire to live in.
GDV £3M.
Status: Sold.

SAINSBURY'S URMSTON

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:15:37 GMT

A commercial retail site acquired in competition with Tesco after Trafford MBC preferred Sainsbury’s who later acquired the freehold interest.

Manchester
Site acquired in competition with Tesco after Trafford MBC preferred Sainsbury’s who later acquired the freehold interest.
Status: Complete

SAINSBURY'S COLNE

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:12:36 GMT

A freehold site acquired off market.

Lancashire
A freehold site acquired off market.
Status: Complete

CASTLEFIELD BASIN

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:07:56 GMT

Nicholas Ratcliffe was one of the first investors to see the massive potential in Castlefield Basin and the former Whatfingers Managers House.

Castlefield, Manchester.
Land and building were acquired early 1990s.
Status: Complete

NORWICH UNION HOUSE

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:07:40 GMT

Purchased from Norwich Union in the late 1990s, with the ground floor and basement pre-let to Bask Taverns (All Bar One). The top floor flat was refurbished into a penthouse office and roof terrace while all upper floors were renovated.

King Street, Manchester
Purchased from Norwich Union in the late 1990s, with the ground floor and basement pre-let to Bask Taverns (All Bar One). The top floor flat was refurbished into a penthouse office and roof terrace while all upper floors were renovated. The overhauled building was later acquired by Legal and General.
Status: Complete

TESCO CENTENARY WAY

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 10:59:01 GMT

A 40,000sq. ft development of non-food retail, on land acquired from BT Property by Tesco, with 40,000 sq ft granted for retail space.

Burnley
A 40,000sq. ft development of non-food retail, on land acquired from BT Property by Tesco, with 40,000 sq ft granted for retail space.
Status: Complete

KELLOGGS WAREHOUSE

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 10:53:02 GMT

A 10-year assignment to reduce Kellogg's warehouses from 22 to just 3, acquiring 12 acres from Trafford Park Estates.

Manchester.
A 10-year assignment to reduce Kellogg's warehouses from 22 to just 3, acquiring 12 acres from Trafford Park Estates.
Status: Complete

BOLTON RETAIL PARK

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 10:49:01 GMT

A 89,000 Sqft Sainsburys food store and petrol filling station, including 115,000 Sqft of non food retail.

Bolton, Greater Manchester
89,000 Sqft Sainsburys food store and petrol filling station, including 115,000 Sqft of non food retail
Status: Complete

KELLOGGS BUILDING

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 10:11:34 GMT

A 9-acre site that became the Kellogg’s European office for 28 years, fronting Talbot Road and Sir Matt Busby Way.

Manchester.
A 9-acre site that became the Kellogg’s European office for 28 years, fronting Talbot Road and Sir Matt Busby Way.
Status: Complete.

THE HUBB

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 10:03:48 GMT

The HUBB at Monton Green is envisaged to be a mixed-use development, comprising retail, office and residential units. This exciting project is currently being conceptualised to ensure that it becomes a valuable asset to the local area.

The site is in an excellent central location in popular Monton, which is known for its community atmosphere and fashionable range of independent retailers.

Vibrant Salford suburb
Up-and-coming neighbourhood
Upper floors will feature residential apartments and boutique duplex apartments
Ground floor units will be retail/hospitality units
GDV £8M
Status: Currently being designed and pre app submitted with Salford City Council

THE PARADE

stuart@dzinr.com (Stuart Gerrard) — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:45:57 GMT

This prime leisure and retail opportunity is a collection of five properties, each featuring retail/hospitality units on the ground floors and residential apartments on the upper floors.

The Parade is in a prime spot amongst a mix of independent and boutique bars and restaurants in vibrant Urmston. It is adjacent to the train station, meaning that Manchester city centre is just 16 minutes away.

The town itself is bursting with community spirit and charm, with the centre enjoying significant investment over the last decade with the opening of the new Eden Square shopping centre. The monthly artisan market is a particular highlight which welcomes visitors from far and wide to enjoy the numerous stalls of eclectic crafts, artisan food & drink and vintage treasures.

Five properties, including a mix use of GF leisure offerings, with future plans for the upper floors underway
Lower ground and ground floor units ranging from 1369 sq ft. to 3953 sq ft.
Vibrant community and excellent nearby amenities
1-minute walk to Urmston Train Station
GDV £3.6M
Status: Under development, taking enquiries for commercial units

SWAN GREEN

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:49:15 GMT

Swan Green is a hidden gem of 30 bespoke luxury homes in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.

No detail was overlooked, and all properties were thoughtfully created to combine beautiful living spaces with functional features and the latest innovative technology.

The homes at Swan Green offer modern comforts and contemporary living nestled within the charming village of Lower Peover.

30 homes
Three miles from the centre of Knutsford
Ranging from two-bed mews and semi-detached homes to four and five-bed detached houses
GDV circa £18M
Status: Completed 2022

How can overseas investors unlock opportunities in UK property?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 18:07:34 GMT

If you're overseas and are considering investment in UK property, this guide from Harvey Homes aims to shed light on the key factors driving this trend and provide insights to help you navigate this promising market.

In the dynamic landscape of real estate, overseas investors are increasingly turning their attention to the United Kingdom, attracted by the stability of its property market, diverse investment options, and the potential for lucrative returns.

Property in the UK has long been considered a stable way to store value. Attractive yields and long-term relative political stability create the perfect environment for property investment.

It is estimated that foreign ownership of UK properties has trebled in the past decade. Buyers have been mostly spread across twenty different countries, with those from the Middle East and Southeast Asia being particularly active in the UK property market. With house prices projected to continue rising over the next five years, overseas property investment looks set to continue along a similar trajectory.

A survey of 500 high-net-worth investors and asset managers by law firm DLA Piper found that the UK was a top global property investment ‘hotspot’. The same survey found that investors from China and the US ranked the UK as the best for residential property investment, citing the high demand, shortfall in supply, strong yields and attractive prices as their reasons.

If you're overseas and are considering investment in UK property, this guide from Harvey Homes aims to shed light on the key factors driving this trend and provide insights to help you navigate this promising market.

The Appeal of UK Property

In 2019, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson stated that the number of UK foreign direct investments was at an all-time high. Despite the difficulties caused by Brexit and COVID-19 in recent years, the UK property market continues to be robust.

There are several reasons why the UK is a good place to invest in property. Some of these reasons are as follows:

1. Stability and Long-Term Growth:

The UK has long been recognised for the stability of its property market. Investors are repeatedly drawn to the historical resilience of UK real estate, which offers a relatively safe and secure environment for capital appreciation in the long term.

2. Diversification Opportunities:

The UK property market is incredibly diverse, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Overseas investors have the flexibility to diversify their portfolios, choosing from a range of property types and locations to suit their investment goals.

3. Educational and Healthcare Hubs:

Cities like London and Manchester boast world-renowned educational and healthcare institutions. This makes them attractive investment locations, as a steady demand for student accommodation and quality healthcare facilities contributes to the overall stability of the property market.

4. Transparent Legal System:

The UK's transparent legal system and well-established property laws provide overseas investors with confidence and ease of navigating transactions. Clear regulations and a reliable legal framework contribute to a favourable investment environment.

5. High rental yields:

Rental income from UK property offers some of the highest yields in the world, particularly where affordable housing is concerned.

6. Housing shortage:

The population of the UK is steadily increasing while too few properties have been built in recent years to cope with demand. At current building rates, it could take up to 15 years for the market to catch up.

Key Considerations for Overseas Investors

There are of course several other things to consider when buying UK property from abroad. Some of these key considerations include:

1. Market Research:

Thorough market research is essential. Understand the specific dynamics of the area you're interested in, including local property trends, demand and supply factors, and potential regulatory changes that might impact your investment.

2. Currency Exchange:

Keep a close eye on currency exchange rates, as fluctuations can significantly impact your returns. Consider consulting with financial experts to devise strategies for mitigating currency risks.

3. Tax Implications:

Familiarise yourself with the tax implications of overseas property investment in the UK. Stay updated on any changes in tax regulations and seek professional advice to optimise your tax position.

4. Financing Options:

Explore financing options available to overseas investors. Some UK lenders offer mortgages to non-resident buyers, and understanding these options can help you make informed decisions about your investment strategy.

UK Register of Overseas Entities

If you are an overseas investor interested in UK property, then it is important to take into account the various laws and regulations that apply to the market.

The UK Register of Overseas Entities was established in August 2022. The purpose of this Register is to increase transparency and tax compliance. This means that overseas entities that own UK property or land are required to declare their beneficial owners or managing officers. Overseas entities cannot buy, sell, transfer, lease, or raise a charge against land in the UK unless they have registered with Companies House.

The UK has a wide range of tax laws that apply to income generated by UK properties, even if they are held by an overseas entity, as outlined by a UK government policy paper. For instance, non-UK resident companies that purchase residential property in England and Northern Ireland over a certain amount are subject to a flat rate 15% Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) charge.

Another example is that the UK rental income of overseas companies has been subject to corporation tax in April 2020.

Emerging Trends in Overseas Investment

1. Build-to-Rent Developments:

The build-to-rent sector is gaining traction, providing overseas investors with opportunities to invest in purpose-built rental properties. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for quality rental housing in urban centres.

2. Sustainable and Green Initiatives:

There is a growing emphasis on sustainability in the UK property market. Overseas investors are increasingly considering eco-friendly and energy-efficient developments that align with global environmental goals.

3. Technology Integration:

The integration of technology in property management and smart home solutions is becoming a key consideration for investors. Tech-savvy developments are not only attractive to residents but also offer the potential for increased property value.

Overseas investment in UK property presents a promising avenue for diversification and growth. As with any investment, thorough research, a clear understanding of the market, and staying abreast of legal and regulatory developments are essential. The UK's property market, characterised by stability, diversity, and innovation, invites investors from around the globe to explore and capitalise on the wealth of opportunities it offers.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or venturing into overseas property investment for the first time, the UK's dynamic real estate market holds the potential to be a rewarding and resilient component of your investment portfolio.

Transforming property with smart trends and technologies

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 22:35:55 GMT

In this blog, we'll explore the future of smart homes, examining the trends and technologies that are reshaping the way we live and transforming the real estate industry.

In an era defined by technological innovation, the concept of a "smart home" has evolved from a futuristic idea to a tangible reality. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, smart homes are becoming an integral part of the real estate landscape.

Here at Harvey Homes, the ‘Rise of Smart Homes’ has of course not gone unnoticed, and we are always looking at ways in which we can better equip our homes so they can take on the challenges of the future.

In this blog, we'll explore the future of smart homes, examining the trends and technologies that are reshaping the way we live and transforming the real estate industry.

Intelligent Connectivity

Smart homes are residences equipped with integrated technology and devices that can be remotely controlled, automated, and optimised for increased efficiency, security, and comfort. What was once considered a luxury is now becoming more commonplace as smart home technologies become more accessible and affordable.

At the heart of smart homes lies the ‘Internet of Things (IoT)’, a network of interconnected devices that communicate and share data. In a smart home, everyday objects, from thermostats and lights to refrigerators and security systems, can be part of this interconnected web. This connectivity allows for seamless communication and automation, creating a more efficient and responsive living environment.

Five Smart Home Trends Shaping Real Estate

1. Home Automation:

Home automation is a key trend in smart homes, offering residents the ability to control various aspects of their home, with a simple tap on their smartphone or a voice command. From lighting and climate control to security systems and entertainment, automation provides convenience and energy efficiency.

2. Voice-Activated Assistants:

Voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple's Siri, have become central figures in smart homes. These AI-powered assistants enable users to control smart devices, ask questions, and receive real-time information through natural language commands.

3. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

Smart homes are increasingly designed with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and appliances can be programmed to optimise energy usage, reducing utility bills and environmental impact. Homebuyers are showing a growing interest in eco-friendly features when considering properties.

4. Enhanced Security Systems:

Security is a top priority for homeowners and smart homes can offer advanced security features. Smart cameras, doorbell cameras, and sensors provide real-time monitoring and alerts, enhancing the overall safety of the property. These systems are appealing to homebuyers looking for comprehensive security solutions.

5. Health and Wellness Integration:

The integration of health and wellness technologies is a rising trend in smart homes. From smart mattresses that monitor sleep patterns to air quality sensors and fitness tracking devices, these technologies contribute to a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Impact on Real Estate Values

Talking about ‘smart homes’ is all well and good, but what impact does smart technology actually have on the value of property?

1. Increased Property Value:

Homes equipped with smart technologies often see an increase in property value. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for the convenience, security, and energy savings that come with a smart home. Real estate agents are increasingly recognising the marketability of smart features when listing properties.

2. Market Differentiation:

As smart homes become more prevalent, properties equipped with the latest technologies stand out in the competitive real estate market. Smart features can be a key differentiator for sellers looking to attract tech-savvy buyers.

3. Future-Proofing Properties:

Investing in smart home technologies can be a way to future-proof a property. As these technologies continue to evolve, having a smart infrastructure in place positions a home to easily integrate new advancements, ensuring long-term relevance.

Challenges and Considerations

So far, we’ve talked about all the positive and beneficial aspects of smart homes, but what are some of the challenges that smart technology creates? And what are some of the factors home builders have to take into consideration before incorporating smart technology into their projects?

1. Privacy Concerns:

The increased connectivity in smart homes raises privacy concerns. The collection of data from various devices may pose risks if not properly secured. Addressing privacy issues and implementing robust security measures is crucial for the widespread adoption of smart home technologies.

2. Cost of Implementation:

While the prices of smart devices have become more affordable, the initial cost of implementing a comprehensive smart home system can still be a significant investment. However, as the market grows, increased competition is likely to drive prices down.

3. Compatibility and Integration:

As the number of smart devices on the market continues to expand, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration between different brands and platforms can be a challenge. Standardisation efforts within the industry aim to address this issue and enhance user experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Smart Homes in Real Estate

1. Advancements in AI and Machine Learning:

The future of smart homes will see advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Homes will become more intuitive, learning from occupants' preferences and habits to anticipate and respond to their needs.

2. Integration with Smart Cities:

The integration of smart homes with broader smart city initiatives is on the horizon. From energy management to traffic optimization, smart homes will play a role in larger urban planning strategies for sustainability and efficiency.

3. Wearable Technology Integration:

The connection between smart homes and wearable technology is set to deepen. Wearables will serve as personal hubs for controlling and monitoring smart home devices, creating a more personalized and seamless user experience.

4. 6G Connectivity:

The advent of 6G connectivity will bring faster and more reliable communication between devices, further enhancing the capabilities of smart homes. This ultra-fast connectivity will support real-time interactions and enable more sophisticated applications.

The future of smart homes in real estate is a journey into a more connected, efficient, and personalised way of living. As technologies continue to advance, the integration of smart features in homes will become not just a luxury but an expected standard.

For homeowners, it represents an opportunity to enhance their quality of life, increase the value of their properties, and contribute to a more sustainable and intelligent future. As the smart home revolution unfolds, it will undoubtedly redefine the way we perceive, design, and experience the concept of home.

The team at Harvey Homes is excited about what the future holds and will always endeavour to stay at the forefront of these technological advancements.

What is a property investment plan?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:19:16 GMT

All aspirations in life need to start with a plan and property investment is no different. Many people decide that property investment is going to be part of their wider financial strategy and the most successful investors have a property investment business plan in place from the start.

So, what is a property investment plan? In this blog, we’ll explore what one is, why you need one and the key components that are needed to create one.

In most cases, property investment is a personal choice, so it may seem strange to treat it like a business but doing so can be a great way of making sure you reach your investment goals and don’t get lost along the way.

At Harvey Homes, we have a long history of working with property and we are well-versed at what makes a property investment plan a successful one.

What is a property investment business plan and why is it useful?

In a nutshell, a property investment plan is a record of what your investment goal is, what the journey will look like and how you intend to make a profit.

Successful investors are always known for their in-depth plans and their step-by-step tactics on how they are going to achieve their goals.

Sitting down and formalising your plans can be a great way to get your thoughts in order. Having a document like this that you can refer to quickly when a new investment opportunity crops up is very helpful when deciding whether it is the right opportunity for you. It means you can operate quickly and efficiently when you need to.

Of course, the main benefit of creating a business plan is that it will help you to protect your current finances and your future financial prospects.

How do you create a property investment plan?

It may seem daunting when you first start thinking about your property investment plan, but there are certain questions you can ask yourself to help you on your way:

Where are you now with your finances?
What do you want to achieve with your investments?
When do you want to reach your goal?
What actions are you able to take to get there?
How much money do you currently have to invest?
Where is your money coming from?
What money do you expect to be able to invest in the future?
How much time do you have to dedicate to your investments?
Do you have the skills to manage a property portfolio?
Do you need a set income from your investment?
Are you most interested in capital gains or a monthly yield?

Key features of a property investment business plan

There are several components that you should make sure you include in your property investment plan. These are:

1. Determine your goal

Establish what your goal is, and this will give you clarity on what you want to achieve. It needs to be more defined than ‘I want to make money’ so try and look deeper into your reasons for investing in property.

Some of the most common goals are:

Saving for retirement
Saving for a significant life event
A desire to protect younger family members
Increasing your disposable income

2. How much time do you have?

This is an important part of your plan as it will help to determine what kind of property you buy.

Do you want to be a hands-on investor and spend a lot of time managing property renovations and tenants? Do you want to trust in the professionals and simply own a portfolio but not have to deal with day-to-day management? Do you have the time to look after an investment or are you comfortable trusting a specialist?

3. Make a ‘to-do’ list

Ensure you have a checklist of all the aspects you need to consider as part of your property investment strategy. Keeping organised and on-track of everything will make the whole process seem more manageable.

This checklist could include:

Resources you want to research
Opportunities you want to explore
Financial checks you need to carry out
Goals you want to reach
Milestones you need to hit
Find a trusted mortgage adviser

4. Keep it simple

While a ‘property investment plan’ may sound very formal, the plan itself doesn’t need to be a ring-bound heavy document with a contents page and index!

A simply written and systematic plan that you can refer to easily and regularly is perfect and keeping it somewhere safe where you can store all your research together is essential.

Property investment strategy

Once you have formulated your plan, it is time to move on to the more complex aspect of the actual strategy.

Hopefully, your comprehensive plan will mean you know whether your property investment ambitions lie with commercial, residential, rental, off-plan, city-centre, UK or even overseas opportunities. It is also important that you consider the current property market and how it is trending.

Researching and understanding the investment property market must be an essential part of your strategy. This includes looking at relevant legislation, as well as educating yourself on general property opportunities and ways to invest.

Be diligent and don’t let details go awry that get in the way later down the line. As part of your research, it may also be wise to talk to other property investors to learn from their knowledge. Their experiences won’t match your own, but it is always good to learn from others.

There is certainly no ‘standard’ way of making money from property and a strategy that suits one investor will not be right for another. It is a personal blueprint that takes into account your financial situation, long-term ambitions, short-term goals, approach to risk, experience and skills.

Property developer storms into ice rink

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 11:08:23 GMT

Cheshire-headquartered property developer The Ratcliffe Property Group has partnered with Manchester Storm to design and build a new spectator box at Altrincham Ice Rink.

Managing Director of The Ratcliffe Property Group, Tom, played for Manchester Storm for many years, while his younger brother Charles was also a keen Ice Hockey Player in his teens, playing for Northern England.

The Box is at Manchester Storm’s home ground, and it is hoped that it will encourage local businesses to enjoy supporting their local ice hockey team in style.

Both Tom and Charles wanted to give something back to the local community and the intention is that the new Box at Altrincham Ice Rink will drive interest in British ice hockey and the successful Altrincham team. The Ratcliffe Property Group will be using the Box at Planet Ice for networking events with local businesses and residents.

Tom commented: “While property runs in our blood, we’ve always had ice under our feet, and the ice rink in Altrincham holds many happy memories for our family. We were in a position where an opportunity transpired for us to help Manchester Storm and we gladly took it.

“Our hope is that the new spectator box will inspire local businesses and families to visit the Ice Rink and support their local ice hockey team – watching Manchester Storm is always a great event!”

Ryan Finnerty From Manchester Storm said: “Forming a strong partnership with the Ratcliffe family has been great for us and demonstrates the growing interest in ice hockey in the region. We always welcome new spectators and we’d love for Manchester Storm to be supported even more by our local community and to see our fanbase grow.”

Manchester Storm is a British professional ice hockey team originally founded in 1995 and re-formed in 2015. The team is a member of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) and is based at Planet Ice, Altrincham, Greater Manchester.

If you want to book the new Spectator Box at Altrincham Ice Rink, then contact Manchester Storm Ice Hockey Club via rf@storm-office.com

The Ratcliffe Property Group is a family business that is dedicated to the property industry and sees real value in the longevity of bricks and mortar. It has three main property arms – Harvey Homes, Jarvis Commercial and RPG Strategic. Under the Harvey Homes brand, they completed a successful development of 30 homes in Knutsford in 2021 and they are currently working to bring several other sites across the North West to market.

Harvey Homes joins forces with local fire service

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 12:25:52 GMT

Cheshire-headquartered property developer Harvey Homes joined forces with the Poynton Fire Services by providing them with a realistic setting for a fire training drill.

Harvey Homes owns a derelict house on Towers Road in Poynton which is currently awaiting planning permission. The Poynton Fire Service asked if they could ‘borrow’ the property for a training event, and the Harvey Homes team was more than happy to oblige!

It gave the trainee fire officers an opportunity to test their equipment, practice their skills in a challenging and real-life scenario and improve their CPR skills.

Jon Woolley, Station Manager at Poynton, commented “This type of training is designed to enhance our crew’s effectiveness, test our readiness and resources, improve our firefighter and community safety, and ensure that we are ready for any real-life incidents that occur in the area. It gives our retained and on-call fire crews an opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge to the test.

“We don’t get many opportunities to train in ‘real-life’ settings, so we are very grateful to the Harvey Homes team for allowing us to do this.”

Tom Ratcliffe, Managing Director of Harvey Homes said: “We’re always happy to help the local communities which we serve, and we were delighted to be able to help the local fire service.

“While we’re very hopeful that this site on Towers Road will soon be home to new residents, for now, it is great that it is being put to good use!”

The plot on Towers Road in Poynton is currently awaiting planning permission, with Harvey Homes open to enquiries from prospective homeowners, or individuals looking to buy land with planning permission already secured.

More details can be found here , or Harvey Homes can be contacted via hello@harvey-homes.co.uk .

10 factors to consider when flipping property

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 12:01:00 GMT

Flipping property is a trend that has gained real momentum in recent years. If you turn on the TV, you will likely find a property programme to watch where professionals or amateurs are striving to make some fast cash from a renovation.

Interestingly, property flipping did not suffer during the pandemic but instead reached an all-time high. This may not surprise many, especially when you learn that in the UK, approximately 75% of flipped houses sell for more than they were bought for.

But is flipping property as easy as it looks? And what are some of the key factors to consider when flipping property? There are of course risks associated with flipping houses, and investors should be aware of these and be prepared for every eventuality. Harvey Homes has many years of experience in property and our team has compiled this guide for you to maximise your chances of a property flip, rather than a flop.

So let’s dive right in!

What is ‘property flipping’?

Let’s start with the basics: House flipping is buying a home specifically with the intention of selling it quickly, typically within a year or less, to make a profit. It is thought of as a short-term real estate investment.

Usually, flipping a house means that you buy a run-down house and then renovate it to a better standard so it can attract a ‘normal’ house-buyer. Occasionally though, people do simply hold on to a property until market conditions improve so they can sell it for more than they paid.

Both strategies involve buying low and selling high thus earning a profit in a relatively short amount of time.

What are the 10 factors to consider when flipping property?

1. Better budgeting

There is a common rule in property renovation, that no matter how much you think a project is going to cost you, chances are you are still underestimating it. When you are trying to make a profit quickly from a house then you have to develop a comprehensive budget and cost management plan. Ensure you know exactly what work needs to be done, keep track of expenses, avoid overspending and have a contingency pot.

2. Choose wisely

While flipping property has become increasingly popular, not every house on the market will be suitable for this strategy. You have to choose the right property and there are several ways of doing this:

Analyse market trends
Monitor property values
Look for properties that fit your finances
Keep an eye on property auctions
Seek the guidance of a knowledgeable estate agent
Consider multiple properties so you always have a back-up if one falls through

3. Follow the trends

Making money from property is often all about good timing. If you are buying a property to renovate, then you need to ensure that you buy it below market value so that you have the financial freedom to effectively cover all the renovations, including any unexpected costs, before you bring it to market again.

To maximise your chances of success, you need to buy your investment property when demand is low, and you need to have it ready to sell when demand is high, and inventory is low.

4. Time is Money

Not every property renovation project is the same. When you are planning your project, prioritise cost-effective improvements that yield a high return on investment – for some properties, this could be curb appeal, whereas for others this could be modernising the bathroom or kitchen. Once you have decided on your plan, set a realistic timeline, and stick to it. The last thing you want is for a project to take months longer than you originally intended.

5. Use a trusted team

You could be a property novice or a seasoned expert, but assembling a crack team of people to help you turn your property into profits is essential for success. If you don’t already have people on your books, then make sure you hire reputable tradespeople by researching online reviews, speaking to previous clients and checking their licenses. Another key thing to remember is to ensure that their prices fit your budget, and that they can keep to your schedule.

Your property team needs to consist of:

Real estate agent
Construction contractor
Home inspector
Legal support
Accountant

6. Don’t underestimate it

While the glitzy property shows can make flipping property look easy, do not underestimate the amount of work, stress and effort that is required to successfully make a profit from flipping property. TV programmes do not show the behind-the-scenes footage of contractors not turning up when they’re supposed to, owners working late into the night to get jobs finished and the constant calculations being made on seemingly endless Excel spreadsheets. Flipping property can be incredibly rewarding, but do not start a project on a whim.

7. Diversify your investments

Embarking on a property flipping project is a great way for seasoned investors to diversify their portfolios. While property renovations can be quite hands-on, they are a great opportunity to make some money in the short term.

8. Risk assessment

Every investment does carry a certain amount of risk so make sure you have carried out a thorough risk assessment, so you are prepared for factors like changes in market conditions, legal complications, or even unexpected renovation work. Minimising your financial losses must always be the goal.

9. What is your exit strategy?

Of course, the end goal of any property flipping project is to sell the house and make some profit. However, you need to make sure you have a robust exit strategy in place to protect your assets and maximise your chances of success.

If your exit strategy doesn’t come about as quickly as you would like, then don’t forget you are responsible for homeownership expenses, such as maintenance and potential homeowners’ association costs.

Make sure you have considered these things when finalising your exit strategy:

Know your target audience and market to them accordingly
Market the property properly using professional photos
Engage the services of a knowledgeable and reputable estate agent
Utilise social media to maximise exposure

10. Is it the right investment for you?

Before you dive into any property purchase, you need to ensure that the investment suits your circumstances. For example, if you don’t have the time to flip a property quickly, or you need longer-term income rather than a quick return, then a buy-to-let property might be better for you.

We hope you enjoyed this blog on the 10 factors to consider when flipping property. Rest assured, the Harvey Homes team will always keep up with the property trends to bring you the latest knowledge and expertise.

What is a property valuation?

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 13:47:53 GMT

As experts in property, the team at Harvey Homes is very knowledgeable about what a property valuation is, and we want to share this knowledge with you.

When you are first considering buying or selling a house, you need to know what a property valuation is. An accurate property valuation will allow you to make sound financial decisions about your purchase decisions, and help you do things like organise proper insurance or even re-mortgage.

As experts in property, the team at Harvey Homes is very knowledgeable about what a property valuation is, and we want to share this knowledge with you.

Simply put, a property valuation is an appraisal of what a property is worth, based on factors like location, quality, size, market conditions and internal finishes.

In this blog, we will discuss how a property is valued, why a property valuation is important, how you should get your property valued, and how you can potentially increase your property’s worth.

How is a property valued?

As mentioned, there are several points that must be considered when a property is valued. Some of these are unique to a particular home and situation, and others are more general.

While some property valuations can be done remotely, the most accurate property valuations should be done by a professional visiting the property and fully assessing what it has to offer.

The factors a property valuation is based on are:

Location
Size
Local market conditions
National market conditions
The quality of any work carried out externally, like extensions, gardens etc.
The quality of any work carried out internally, such as flooring, double-glazing, insulation, kitchens and bathrooms etc.
What is the current demand for this type of property
How well-maintained a property is

There may be other influences as well, such as:

The layout of a property
The amount of available storage space
Local crime rates
Local flood risk
Any subsidence risks
Local amenities
School catchment areas
Good transport links
Any potential for improvements, extensions or loft conversions

When all these factors are carefully considered, a property valuation can be given. Of course, this is most likely to then determine the asking price of a home if it is being put on the market. Other questions do have to be asked at this point though, like ‘How much have houses like this sold for recently?’ and ‘How long is it taking to find a buyer in this particular area?’

How can you get a property valuation?

There is no doubt about it, if you need your house to be valued, the best possible way to get an accurate figure is to consult with local and reputable estate agents and arrange for them to visit.

For the Harvey Homes Swan Green development in Knutsford, we worked with local estate agents Irlams , and their local knowledge and market expertise was invaluable.

However, if you are just trying to come up with an initial idea of a valuation then there are some steps you can take and online sources you can consult. Do be cautious of the ‘instant valuations’ you may be offered online though, as these figures may not always be realistic or reliable.

Without employing the services of an estate agent, some of the methods you can use to value a house are:

1. Look at houses near you that have sold

Find similar houses near yours and do some research into what they sold for – this can give you a ‘ballpark’ figure for what you could expect for your property. Several different websites offer this information for free, including:

Zoopla
Rightmove

Zoopla and Rightmove get their information from Land Registry and the Registers of Scotland and it often takes about 12 weeks for a house that’s been sold to appear on their records.

2. Look nationally

While local knowledge is key to valuing property, it is also worth reviewing the housing market as a whole across the country.

Average national house prices, interest rates and recent news can all be good indicators of what a house can be valued at.

Take a look at sources such as Halifax , Nationwide and the UK House Price Index from the Land Registry .

3. Use a house value calculator

As mentioned, there are several free online house valuation tools you can look at. But do be cautious when looking at these and don’t forget that they may not take local trends and factors into account:

How can you increase your property valuation?

If you are seriously considering a move and need to get the maximum value out of your current property, then there are simple things you can do to boost the value of your home ahead of having it professionally valued.

These include:

Tidying up and decluttering. If your house is bursting at the seams, then it will look overcrowded and lacking in storage space. Dedicate a few days to do some serious decluttering and it may do wonders for your house valuation.

Clean it up. Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to get the marigolds old and give everywhere a good clean – remove any mould or mildew from the bathrooms, clean the kitchen cupboards and give everywhere a good scrub!

General maintenance. This could include tasks like tidying the garden, making sure all your bulbs are working and clearing the gutters. They are small things but will help to spruce your house visiting estate agents.

Kerbside appeal. They say that first impressions are the most important. Make sure your house looks tidy from the front – mow the lawn, clear any rubbish, and make sure the windows are clean. You want an estate agent or any future buyers to pull up and think ‘Wow!’

Redecorate. Do you have a penchant for bright colours? While they may be to your taste, they may well put potential buyers off which is something that estate agents will be well aware of when making valuations. If it’s possible, redecorate with calming and neutral colours that maximise the natural brightness of each room.

Have your documents in order. Having documents like up-to-date electrical certificates can be very handy for estate agents and potential buyers.

If you want to take this concept one step further, then there are bigger projects you can undertake that can add some serious long-term value to your home. These include:

Ground-floor or first-floor extensions
Loft conversions
New kitchen
New bathroom
Upgrading your energy efficiency, such as through solar panels

Interestingly, sometimes simply applying for planning permission can increase the value of a property because it lets buyers know there’s potential to ‘upgrade’ the property should they want to.

We hope you now have a better understanding of what a property valuation is, and how you can potentially unlock even more value in your home!

Why should you buy a new build home?

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:55:22 GMT

To some people, the reasons you should buy a new build home are clear – less hassle, more efficiency, increased design choices, tighter warranties – but there are other less obvious reasons.

The Harvey Homes team has looked closely at the Home Builders Federation’s (HBF) latest reports and has found some interesting data to show why buying new build homes can save you money, time and, maybe, your sanity!

And of course, if all these reasons don’t persuade you then there’s also the rather wonderful fact that a new build home is just that – it is new. It has never been lived in before, never been smeared with sticky fingers or been subject to strange renovations, meaning that you can move in and make it your own immediately. It is your home and no one else’s, which is a rather special position to be in.

So, why should you buy a new build home? Check out our top seven reasons why buying new is the way to go!

1. Avoid Hidden Costs.

HBF’s ‘ Get on with Living report ’ from February 2023 found that ‘The second most common reason for choosing a new build was low maintenance, with 41% claiming that would encourage them to buy new. Given the time-limited and cost-conscious way consumers now live, it’s unsurprising many would see the appeal in a new, easy-to-care-for property.’

It's no secret that the costs of renovating a home can quickly mount up. Once you start a project, sometimes the costs start spiralling and problem after problem is found that must be fixed. This can include everything from rewiring and new guttering to the installation of bathrooms, kitchens, and new windows.

HBF’s research into the expense of renovating ‘existing’ properties found that an ‘average 3-bedroom semi-detached home would cost £61,489.30 to upgrade. When including exterior rendering and guttering, this figure increases to a budget-breaking £73,271.80.’

Here at Harvey Homes, we feel like these eye-watering figures alone should be enough to convince anyone to buy new!

2. Energy-saving features

In today’s energy-conscious world, the vast majority of homebuyers want to know that they are not adding to their carbon footprint while they are choosing their new home.

Sites like Rightmove now list the energy efficiency of their listings so it’s clear to see how important this factor is to homebuyers.

Just like Harvey Homes’ properties, most new build properties are built with energy efficiency in mind. We use the most innovative techniques for our building processes and ensure every house is kitted out with the latest smart technology.

Demonstrating the difference this can make, the Home Builders Federation’s (HBF) ‘ Watt a Save ’ report from July 2023 found that ‘as of December 2022, 85% of new build properties were receiving an A or B EPC rating’. This is a huge figure compared to the paltry ‘4% of older properties’ receiving the same rating.

Energy-saving measures aren’t just for the eco-conscious among us, it can also have a huge impact on your wallet.

The same report from the HBF also analysed energy performance data for new and older properties. This found that ‘energy bills for new homes are on average 55% cheaper, saving households £135 on monthly running costs. This saving rises to over £180 per month for purchasers of houses, rather than flats or bungalows, totalling £2,200 a year.’

Further to this, there are likely to be more hidden costs for property owners of older homes as they may be required to make costly, time-consuming, and disruptive retrofit measures to get their homes up to more modern standards.

New build homeowners won’t have to face this issue as their homes were built to be energy efficient from the start of construction. Some examples of this include Lower CO2 emissions, double glazing, efficient boilers, water-saving systems and quality insulation.

Unsurprisingly, a survey by HBF in February 2023 found 53% of the population would be drawn to new build homes because of the lower utility bills and running costs.

3. Building quality

More stringent regulations mean that new build homes have to be built to a better standard than their predecessors. While the oddities and history of old homes can add to their charm, it does come with risks about how safe and secure they are. Building standards these days are so much higher, meaning the homes are built to be much higher quality as well.

These standards are improving all the time, which means that the quality of new build housing stock across the UK is only going to improve.

An example of this is The Future Homes Standard that was announced in July 2022. This new standard will ensure that new homes built from 2025 produce 75-80% less carbon emissions. This is of course great for the environment but it’s also great for homebuyers as they will save on their utilities and have peace of mind about the quality of the building works.

4. Speedier moving

Buying a new home is often thought to be one of the most stressful life experiences. It comes as no surprise then that the cancellation rate for the purchase of second-hand homes is thought to be as high as 20 per cent. This could be because a private buyer or seller has simply their minds, there might be a bad survey, a chain has fallen through or someone’s been ‘gazumped’.

Unsurprisingly, this same cancellation rate drops to single figures for the purchase of a new home . These transactions are usually direct with the developers, who are much less likely to change their minds halfway through a sale.

Often with a new build house, you also won’t have a buyer's chain to deal with. This means much less hassle and simplicity, especially as your transactions are done with people who know property and know how to deal in it.

You could be unpacking those moving boxes before you know it!

5. Perfect no matter your situation

New build homes are often ideal choices for homebuyers, no matter your situation.

They suit young families because they don’t then have to deal with disruptive work and renovations in the house, while retirees like the ease of new appliances, hassle-free living and reduced monthly bills.

6. Design choices

When you’re considering buying a new build home, the design and interior of it must be a factor. When buying off-plan you can usually have a say in the interior design and finishing touches, with the added bonus that the developer usually works with an interior stylist who can advise you.

You can customise flooring, work surfaces and cabinetry and even choose specific furniture packages. This means that you get your new home to be exactly how you like it – no compromises required.

7. Added protection

Added protection is always a good thing, and this is exactly what you get when buying a new build home. All new build homes are subject to 10-year home warranties, and they must meet certain regulations and consumer codes. You simply don’t get these with second-hand homes.

Are you considering why you should buy a new build home? Speak to the Harvey Homes team today and find out how we can help you!

Ratcliffe family continues to unlock achievements in real estate

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:28:58 GMT

Charlie Jarvis Ratcliffe, 21, was presented with his first-class honours degree from Salford University and has also been awarded the prestigious RICS North West Board Prize for Best Student in BSc Real Estate Development and Management.

Real Estate runs in the Ratcliffe family, as Charlie follows in the footsteps of his older brother Tom Harvey Ratcliffe. The friendly rivalry is clear to see, with both brothers graduating from the same course, winning the same award, and achieving the highest marks in their respective classes.

The inspiration for the brothers’ venture into real estate comes from their father, Nicholas, who has been in the property business for many years. The family founded the Ratcliffe Property Group in 2018, under which sits Jarvis Commercial , focusing on commercial property, and Harvey Homes, focusing on Residential property.

Salford University alum Tom was instrumental in the successful development of 30 family homes at the Harvey Homes’ inaugural site in Knutsford, Swan Green .

Charlie’s future looks equally as bright as he considers his career options. His outstanding marks have opened up many opportunities for him, both in the UK and abroad.

While the Covid-19 pandemic didn’t make life easy for Charlie, he commented that he still enjoyed his experience at Salford University: “Over the three years at Salford, the real estate lectures were amazing, and the course content was very informative and interesting. I’m obviously delighted to finish with a first-class degree, and feel very humbled to have been awarded the RICS award.”

A representative from Salford University commented: “Charlie's excellent graduation results are a testament to the remarkable successes of our students. We congratulate Charlie and wish him all the best in his career endeavours.”

Top ten tips on how to sell your home

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:52:22 GMT

Are you dreaming of a new home? First you’ve got to sell your old one! In this blog, we look at the UK housing market in general and share our top ten tips on how to sell your home quickly.

The housing market in the UK is always the subject of much discussion amongst industry experts. When are houses being bought? What trends can we see in homebuyers’ behav iour? Where are the most popular areas? The questions can be endless!

There has been much positive news in relation to the UK’s housing market in recent months.

In May, Zoopla stated that ‘agreed house sales climbed 11% higher than the five-year average, which appears to have convinced more sellers to put their properties on the market’. While, according to Nationwide, ‘h ouse prices grew 0.5% in April, the first monthly rise since the mini-budget in September last year’.

These positive statistics indicate that the housing market is a fruitful one and competition could be fierce for sellers looking to get the attention of would-be buyers.

So, how can you best market your home? How can you secure a quick sale? Here are Harvey Homes’ top ten tips on how to sell your home quickly!

1. Choose a knowledgeable estate agent

At the beginning of the house sale process, it’s always a good idea to have at least two estate agents come around to value your home. Not only does this give you the opportunity to get the right valuation for your home, but it also allows you to find out more about the people whom you will be relying on to sell your home.

Choosing a knowledgeable estate agent is absolutely key. Ask them questions such as:

· Do they know the area well?

· How experienced are they with your house type?

· What prices have they achieved for their house sales recently?

· How are they planning on marketing your home?

When you meet people face-to-face you can get to know them better. If they are personable and come across as responsive and proactive then they are more likely to be able to build a better rapport with potential buyers as well! At the end of the day, you are trusting this person to facilitate one of the biggest transactions in your life, so they need to know what they are doing!

2. Set the right price

Work with your estate agent to ensure that you give your home the right listing price. An agent over-promising with a high price may well end up prolonging the process, but a price too low could be doing your home a disservice. Ask the estate agent to provide evidence as to why they recommend a particular price and make sure you do your own research into house prices in the local area.

3. Get your documents ready

Buying and selling a home is a complicated process and there is a lot of paperwork to deal with. Set yourself up for success by making sure you have all your documentation organised. This could include:

· HM Land Registry title documents

· Energy Performance Certificates

· Gas checks

· Electrical checks

· Planning permission

· Building regulation certificates

· Builder’s guarantee certificates

4. Declutter

There can be nothing more off-putting than walking into a home and finding it full of clutter. It can detract away from the assets of a home and make rooms seem much smaller than they actually are.

Having a big clear-out before any house viewings can make a big difference, not to mention how free you will feel to be living without all that unnecessary stuff!

5. Dress to impress

Now, we’re not saying that your home has to be the pinnacle of Instagram perfection, but dressing each room so that it is visually appealing, neutral and bright can make all the difference in the race to sell your home.

You can get some great pieces from places like IKEA or Home Style that are relatively cheap and will refresh any room so it’s more likely to get noticed. Remember – you are trying to show off your home’s best assets, so make every nook and cranny count.

6. Get some great photographs

Once your home is decluttered and has been dressed in aesthetically appealing decoration and finishing touches, it’s time for the photoshoot!

This is another area in which an experienced estate agent can make a big difference as they will know how to take photos of a home in order to capture the best possible angle and light in each room. The very best estate agents may even have dedicated photographers who are specifically tasked with this job. Hopefully, they will know what type of photos will get the most attention in your area and will maximise this opportunity.

When the photos are displayed on your listing, make sure that the best one is at the front to ensure people don’t walk – or scroll – past!

7. Focus on the key rooms

The rooms that are often the key to selling any home are usually the kitchen and the bathroom. Making sure that they are clean and decluttered is the most important thing:

· Hide away your toiletries in cupboards.

· Keep the toilet seat down.

· Open blinds/curtains and make sure the lights are on in photographs.

· Make sure any glassware and countertops are shiny and smudge-free.

· Put washing-up and laundry away.

· Keep utensils and food away from the surfaces.

8. Curb appeal

After everything we’ve said, you think that all the hard work starts once the potential buyer has opened the front door right? Wrong! They will be forming an impression of your home before they even step onto the doormat!

Make sure any space you have in front of your house is tidy and well-maintained i.e., mow the lawn, pick up any litter and give your front door a spruce-up. First impressions count!

9. Consider all the senses

This is definitely an important one! We’re not suggesting that you need to start baking cookies before each buyer visits your home, but a couple of plug-in air fresheners can do wonders. Air out each room and make sure there are no strong cooking or pet smells lingering anywhere – nothing can be more off-putting to a buyer than an odd smell.

10. Choose the right buyer

Once you have done all these things, you should be lucky enough to secure an offer or two. It can be tempting to just say yes to the first offer that comes your way, or you may be tempted to start a bidding war but make sure you tread carefully at this point. The highest offer might not always be the right choice. Find out about their circumstances – have they got a long chain? How are they financing the purchase? Are they first-time buyers? Have they got a mortgage in principle?

Consider all these points carefully and listen to advice from your estate agent.

We hope you have enjoyed Harvey Homes’ top ten tips on how to sell your home quickly, and as hassle-free as possible! We wish you luck in selling your home!

Family Fortunes at Swan Green

Mon, 10 May 2021 22:24:20 GMT

Father of three, Rory Gorton, has recently moved into one of Harvey Homes’ four-bedroom detached family homes, in ‘ The Twemlow ’ style.

Having previously lived in Knutsford, the Gorton family decided that they wanted to enjoy the countryside more. With family living close by in Lower Peover , the picturesque village was the obvious choice and Harvey Homes’ Swan Green development and spacious homes made the decision even easier.

Speaking about the move, Rory commented: “We used to live close to the centre of Knutsford near to the main town, but we decided that we wanted more space and to be closer to the countryside. Our children are 13, 3 and 8 months and the eldest actually went to Lower Peover CofE Primary School and we want our youngest two to go there as well. Our 13-year-old goes to Holmes Chapel High School and a local bus picks him up which is so convenient. This all means that living in Lower Peover made perfect sense!

“When we came to visit Swan Green , we really liked the style of the houses and the architecture. We’ve lived in new build houses before and like how easy it is to move in and how well everything is designed.

“We originally loved the Swan Green show room but ended up choosing a ‘Twemlow-style’ home as we love the open plan living with the bi-folds out the back, good-sized bedrooms, the high ceilings and general sense of space. My wife (Danielle) also loves that the laundry room is on the same floor as the bedrooms – it makes so much sense!

“We’ve already been able to get involved in the local community, and our neighbours here at Swan Green are really nice. The village has some great pubs and restaurants, and we can’t wait to get out and about more once the COVID restrictions are lifted. We only moved in during October 2020 so haven’t had chance to make the most of it all yet.

“The community spirit in the area is so refreshing. Everyone in Lower Peover seems so proud of the village and works hard to make it a lovely place to live. There was an Easter Bunny ‘hunt’ at Easter and the Local farmer (Andrew) has been really helpful and generous with his time.

“My favourite aspect of the house has to be the kitchen/living area as it’s nice to be together in a spacious room and the ‘flow’ of the house is great as it means we can also see the kids in the back garden there as well. I also love the external design of the house – I think it’s got great ‘curb appeal’!

“The kids love the garden and the eldest is a big fan of his massive bedroom! The little ones love being in the countryside surrounded by streams, cows, sheep and horses! I do miss walking into Knutsford town centre, but I wouldn’t trade it for being able to ramble through the quiet countryside.”

Commenting on Harvey Homes, Rory said: “The sales process with Harvey Homes was really easy and efficient. Buying and selling houses can always be tricky but the team made it very smooth. Tom even helped us on moving day and checked up on us a lot in the following weeks to show us how things worked etc. Any minor snags that have cropped up have been dealt with quickly by Arabella and we really can’t fault them!

“We’ll definitely be here for many years to come as we’ve still got room to grow in the house and we love the local area even more than we thought we would!

“10/10 for everyone at Harvey Homes! We are a very happy family here at Swan Green!”

Community Connections in Knutsford

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 19:26:36 GMT

The team at Harvey Homes has always loved the community we are fortunate enough to be part of in Lower Peover, Knutsford.

Since we first started building the houses at Swan Green , we have enjoyed getting to know our neighbours and working with them whenever we can.

It’s no secret that Knutsford is a special place to live, with the town recently named as one of the top places to live in the North West of England by the Sunday Times in their annual ‘Best Places to Live’ Guide.

The community spirit here is one of the attractions of the area, with special mention given by The Sunday Times to the ‘Knutsford Hosts’, a group of volunteer helpers, for their vital efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Getting to know the neighbours

One such neighbour who we have been lucky enough to work with over the past couple of years is Farmer Andrew who runs the Dairy Farm that is close to the Swan Green development.

We were first introduced to Andrew through a gentleman called George – a retired Farmer who used to work on the farm adjacent to Swan Green. What started with Andrew helping us out with tree protection, hoarding and site enabling works, has grown over the years and now Andrew can often be found on site at Swan Green.

He has helped our new residents with gardening, landscaping, ground works and even boarding their lofts and has continued to work with Tom and Nick at Harvey Homes, helping to get the foundations sorted for the car barns and garages.

When we did some work with Lower Peover Church of England Primary School last year, Andrew even came with us and helped Tom with the gardening we did there.

Andrew has lived in Lower Peover for 35 years and is a qualified general engineer and agricultural engineer, his wife is a vet in Wilmslow, and he has a young family. He’s a true member of the community!

Andrew commented: “The Swan Green development is a very nice addition to the village, and it’s been enjoyable getting to know the Ratcliffe family and working with Tom and Nick at the site.

“The Swan Green properties are nice family homes and it’s been great to get to know the new residents and make some new acquaintances who I’m sure will enjoy the community spirit here in Lower Peover for many years to come.”

Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe, said: “Andrew has always been very supportive of Swan Green and has proved to be a great community member to get to know. We’re so grateful for all his help on site and he really does exemplify the special community spirit that is so unique to Lower Peover.”

Go up in the world with a three-storey home

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 12:12:39 GMT

Going up in the world will help you find the space you need for your family!

A three-storey home can be seen as the ultimate family home! All that extra vertical space gives everyone room to breathe and can be flexible, functional and stylish all at the same time.

Whether you need a home office for your new working-from-home life, a playroom for your toddler’s toys or a hideaway for your teenagers, three-storey homes are a unique way of bringing everyone together while also giving them space.

Three-storey homes are known to be adaptable and are great at accommodating families as their lifestyles and needs change over the years.

Harvey Homes currently has three three-storey detached homes available at our Swan Gree n development in Knutsford (which incidentally has recently been named as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Live in the North West ) , all of which are in our ‘Ollerton’ style.

They feature:

· 1,890sq ft of living accommodation

· Large open plan kitchen, living and dining space

· Separate lounge

· Ground floor bathroom

· Cloakroom

· Integrated single garage

· Master bedroom with dressing area and en-suite

· 4 further bedrooms

· 2 family bathrooms

So, what are some of the benefits of three-storey living?

Benefits of three-storey living

1. Guest-friendly, with privacy intact

While we all love having guests to stay, nobody likes the awkward dance on the landing when you’re all trying to get into the bathroom at the same time, or the disruption to each other’s evening or morning routines! With a three-storey house, after an evening or day of entertaining you can all ‘escape’ to your separate floors, privacy intact, with great memories of your time together preserved.

2. Flexible family fun

For families with either young children or teenagers, the need for dedicated living spaces is all too real. Young children have a plethora of toys to contend with and keep tidy when not in use, while teenagers appreciate having their own space for gaming, homework and socialising. Many three-storey homes, like the ones from Harvey Homes, have rooms that can be flexible, no matter what fun is being sought!

3. Luxury retreat for the ‘grown-ups’

One of the main benefits of a three-storey home is the extra space that it affords you. One room where this really comes into its own is the master bedroom. Airy sleeping areas, large dressing spaces and luxury en-suite bathrooms come together to create the ultimate and relaxing sanctuary for the adults of the house!

4. Versatile lifestyle

The split-level design of a three-storey home creates much more versatility than a standard home. Floors can be split depending on who is using them, and many families find that their three-storey homes simply adapt as their lifestyles adapt, with each room having a variety of uses.

5. Expansive storage

Seeking out new storage options is a constant challenge for many families, with sheds, lofts, garages and even under-stair spaces being maxed out as much as possible for storage requirements. The storage options from three-storey houses are often expansive, with life being allowed to spread out and every item having its own place.

6. Modern entertaining

Open plan living spaces are all the rage at the moment, and it is easy to see why. Keen foodies inspired by cooking shows and world flavours are determined to bring their kitchen to life, without losing the ability to keep their guests entertained. Modern kitchen/dining spaces that are a common feature of three-storey homes are perfect for this lifestyle, whether it is homemade pizzas, bowls of pasta, joints of meat or hand-rolled sushi on the menu!

Features of a Harvey Homes Ollerton home

Harvey Homes’ Ollerton-style homes are the perfect embodiment of every benefit that three-storey living can bring.

The modern detached homes showcase stylish living accommodation, with both a large kitchen/dining space and separate snug/retreat on the ground floor. Nestled between them is a separate cloakroom and toilet, and an integral garage full of storage space completes the offering.

The first floor comprises of a master bedroom suite with a huge dressing area and beautiful bathroom, as well as two further bedrooms – one with a walk-in closet – as well as a separate laundry room and large family bathroom.

Venture up to the second floor and you’ll find a space that teenagers and guests alike will love; two huge bedrooms alongside another big bathroom.

There’s certainly nothing left wanting in The Ollerton!

Commenting on three-storey living, Tom Ratcliffe, Director at Harvey Homes said: “The three-storey style is something that we are finding is particularly popular with families. They often come to site wanting a traditional two-storey house but are immediately taken by the charms and space of a three-storey property instead.

“I truly believe that the flexibility that what a three-storey home provides cannot be beaten – whether you’ve got young children or teenagers, need to work from home, love having guests to stay or are craving that adult sanctuary, a three-storey home really is the solution to it all!

“Ultimately, every family is different and the fact that our Ollerton-style homes are so versatile is a big reason as to why they are so sought-after. The spaces can be arranged as to how you want them, and they can be easily adapted when change is required. They really are a home for everyone, no matter what your situation!”

To organise a viewing of one of Harvey Homes’ three-storey Ollerton-style homes, contact our dedicated Sales and Customer Care Manager, Arabella, by calling 0161 468 2728 or emailing arabella@harvey-homes.co.uk

How to make a house a home

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 15:07:38 GMT

We like to think that all of the properties that Harvey Homes builds for our discerning buyers are true ‘homes’ from the minute they walk in. We make sure they are built with love and care so that they are able to nurture families as they change over the years while also fostering quality time together.

However, we do realise that people like to make a property truly theirs with personal touches and that often a house goes through a major interior transformation before it truly feels like a ‘home’.

What do homeowners say?

Last year, Furniture Village undertook a study into 2,000 homeowners to ask them what really made them feel at home and found that it was the little things that made the difference.

Sleeping in your own bed topped the list, with 65 per cent of people saying that their bed made a house feel like their home.

A further 48 per cent said that having a dedicated ‘space’ on the sofa made them feel at ‘home’. Personal touches including children’s paintings on the wall (20 per cent), fridge magnets (19 per cent) and even shoes by the door (19 per cent) help to complete a place.

A spokesperson from Furniture Village commented: “This fascinating study confirms that it’s a combination of favourite pieces of furniture along with all those familiar little touches that make a house a home.

“It’s clear that having furniture you love – like your bed and your spot on the sofa – is really important at the end of the day. But it’s the simple things like family photos, flowers in a vase, and a well-stocked bookshelf that can instantly make your home the place you want to be.”

What the study shows is that while the bricks and mortar of a house shape the home, the owners’ personal touches are what finishes it off.

So, what are some of the things most recommended by interior designers and experts across the UK so you can turn your space into a real home?

Top tips on how to make a house a home

At the end of the day a home is made up of different rooms, a bathroom, kitchen, beds etc but those things aren’t enough to make it truly feel like a home. A feeling of home is about cosiness, charm, comfort, an atmosphere of happiness and a certain warmth. But how are these things cultivated?

If you’ve just moved into a new home – say one of our Tabley properties at Swan Green in Knutsford – then what can you do to nurture a sense of home? It’s already got a beautiful family space, cosy lounge, high spec bathrooms and kitchen as well as four bedrooms so what else can you do?

1. Display art and pictures

Research shows that being around art can significantly reduce stress and make people happy so why not adorn your walls as soon as you move in? It doesn’t need to be priceless artefacts or million-pound oil paintings but even some nice prints or stylish photography can really elevate a space, get your endorphins going and show off your personality and interests.

2. Get nostalgic

For many of us, memories of our childhood home are the most powerful and really represent what ‘home’ means. It’s where we felt the safest, the most loved and these are the feelings that all of us want to recreate in our homes when we are adults.

Why not try and bring some of your old furniture into your new house or if that’s not possible then you could try and reconstruct a similar area that brings back strong recollections of childhood warmth and comfort.

3. Indulge in some fabrics

Soft furnishings can really transform a space. From a cosy blanket that covers up a scratchy old sofa, to a fluffy rug that warms up an otherwise cold floor, mounds of cushions that are layered up on a bed or even fabric swatches pulled together to make a patchwork throw or wall hanging, soft decorations can really change a space for the better.

The great thing is that soft furnishings can be relatively quickly changed and when they are you can transform a room into anything you want it to be – formal, whimsical, cosy, sophisticated or even peaceful.

4. Go green

Nothing gives freshness and life to a space than plants and green florae. Whether this is some cheerful flowers in a vase to bring a pop of colour to an otherwise dull room, an array of freshly grown herbs on the windowsill of a kitchen that circulate aromatic scents or some spiky succulents along a bookcase – some indoor greenery is great at making people smile!

Whatever you decide to do to bring cosiness, calmness and a feeling of ‘home’ to your new house, starting with a Harvey Homes property is certainly going to give you a head start on cultivating all that wellbeing and love!

Property market foundations strengthened by Chancellor

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 14:31:04 GMT

Home buyers across Britain breathed a sigh of relief this week when the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced that the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) holiday in England and Northern Ireland was to be extended.

The deadline on the previous SDLT holiday was looming, with it due to end on 31st March. It has now been extended to the 30th June, followed by a tapered ending until 30th September for properties up to £250k.

Mr Sunak stated that the SDLT extension is part of the Conservative Party’s commitment to turn “generation rent into generation buy”.

Home buyers with only small deposits saved were also given a boost, with a new support package being announced which involves the Government providing a mortgage guarantee scheme for lenders who offer 95% mortgages. There is a £600,000 limit on the price of homes which are eligible for this scheme.

What is the Stamp Duty holiday?

Stamp Duty is a tax paid by house buyers. The SDLT holiday has seen the threshold for this tax be raised to £500,000 for property sales in England and Northern Ireland until 30 ^th June 2021.

This can result in thousands of pounds of savings. Indeed, since the holiday period was introduced last summer some Harvey Homes buyers have saved up to £15,000 in stamp duty – a considerable financial sum.

According to figures from Zoopla, 750,000 homebuyers in England are collectively set to save almost £5billion in taxes as a result of the SDLT holiday.

The SDLT extension rules are as follows:

The stamp duty holiday applies to first-time buyers and those who have previously owned a property.
If the property being purchased is more than £500,000, the buyer will pay stamp duty based on the revised rate bands.
If a buyer is purchasing a second home, they’ll still pay stamp duty on properties that cost more than £40,000 at the new revised rates – paying an extra 3%.
The new tax applies to both freehold and leasehold properties.
The new tax applies whether a buyer is buying outright or with a mortgage.
The changes to stamp duty will only apply to homes in England and Northern Ireland.

Looking at Harvey Homes’ ‘ Tabley ’ style home, the stamp duty savings would be as follows:

0% on the first £500,000 = £0
5% on the final £355,000 = £17,750
Total SDLT = £17,750 (instead of £32,750)

The importance of the UK Property Market

Since the COVID-19 Pandemic started, the effect on the housing market has been huge, with activity slowing considerably.

However, the government recognised that the sector was instrumental in reviving the beleaguered UK economy and thus introduced the SDLT holiday last summer to get people moving again.

The plan worked, with thousands of buyers incentivised to look for a new home. Many of these house-hunters were prompted by months of restrictive lockdown measures which had left them cooped up in homes with little outdoor areas and limited flexible living spaces.

As ‘working from home’ has become the new norm, many buyers have been seeking homes with office spaces and rooms that can be multifunctional so that they adapt to the needs of family life.

The flexible living spaces that are a prominent feature of Harvey Homes properties have been very appealing to families, couples and single people alike. The same space can be repurposed as an office, family dining area, playroom or whatever you like – the possibilities really are endless!

The revitalisation of the UK property market has had a significant effect on the wider economy, with the UK’s GDP set to return to its pre-Covid peak in mid-2022 (according to the Office for Budget Responsibility), six months earlier than previously anticipated.

The industry reacts

The news regarding the SDLT extension from the Chancellor’s Spring Budget 2021 was hotly anticipated by industry experts and professionals alike, with rumours about the extension circulating in the media for weeks prior to the announcement.

Melanie Leech, Chief Executive, British Property Federation said: "The stamp duty holiday has kept the residential sector moving throughout 2020 and, with recovery still insecure, an extension is the right decision. The current ‘holiday’ has illustrated what a damaging tax stamp duty is – it stops people from moving home. Our tax system should focus on where value is created and that should mean working towards low or no stamp duty.”

Brian Murphy, Mortgage Advice Bureau: “Extending the stamp duty holiday for another three months for up to a £500k purchase price - followed by a tapered ending until 30th September for properties up to £250k - will mean home buyers currently in the process of completing their property transactions can breathe easy. It offers some much-needed latitude to the industry as conveyancers have been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of transactions, and so the extension should help ease the current bottleneck the market is experiencing.”

Harvey Homes strengthens team with new appointments

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 12:42:00 GMT

Bowden-headquartered property developer Harvey Homes is beginning 2021 with a bang by bolstering its already strong team and launching a new-look website.

Arabella Durkin has been appointed as the group’s new Sales & Customer Care Manager and will be responsible for supporting the company’s clients during the buying proces s. She will be looking after the properties at Harvey Homes’ inaugural development in Knutsford (Swan Green) but will also be involved in Harvey Homes’ future developments as well.

Andrew Kitto has also become part of the Harvey Homes team as the company’s Management Accountant. He is responsible for all the financial side of things, including ensuring that their processes and procedures are working as efficiently as possible.

Their appointments come at the same time as Harvey Homes has invested in its digital presence, having recently worked with Bramhall-headquartered website designer Dzinr to overhaul their website.

Both Arabella and Andrew are strong additions to the team, with Arabella having worked in customer service for more than a decade, and Andrew having worked with construction, development and property companies ever since he qualified as an accountant more than 25 years ago.

Director Tom Ratcliffe said: “Arabella’s knowledge of the local area is second-to-none as she previously lived down the road from the Swan Green development in Lower Peover and worked at an Estate Agents in Hale, where many of our buyers are hailing from. Andrew’s knowledge of both the accounting and property industries is fantastic, and we know he will be a great asset to Harvey Homes.

“We are delighted that they have both joined the team and know they will help to reinforce our reputation for great customer service and general excellence.”

Arabella commented: “I have a real understanding of the local area in Knutsford and why people choose to live there, so I am looking forward to supporting Harvey Homes’ buyers as they look for their dream homes.

“Schemes like Swan Green are really inspiring as the quality of the properties is clear to see so it is a real pleasure to be working with people who are committed to such excellence.

“I am looking forward to what the future will bring as new developments are brought to life by Harvey Homes as I believe they are elevating the new build property market in the North West.”

Harvey Homes is currently building 30 beautiful family homes in Swan Green, Lower Peover on Middlewich Road. Several families are already living in their new homes, with the development set to be completed in 2021.

The homes at Swan Green range from two-bedroom mews and semi-detached homes to four and five-bedroom detached houses. Contact 0161 468 2728 or email hello@harvey-homes.co.uk for more information. The show home is available to view on an appointment-only basis.

Why 2021 is the perfect time to search for your new home

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 21:50:58 GMT

With 2020 being a difficult year for all of us, it was no wonder that we were all hoping for happier times in 2021.

However, with Boris Johnson’s announcement on 4 ^th January of a new national lockdown, people’s hopes and dreams for the new year appeared to be dashed before it had really even begun.

Thankfully, there is still a glimmer of hope for those people who were hoping that 2021 meant a new start and a new home.

Mercifully, the exceptions to the ‘UK Coronavirus Ale rt Level 5’ rules, includes house moves and therefore house-hunters are free to go forth and seek out their new home. This means that the UK property market is still buoyant, with Estate and Letting agents and removal firms continuing to work.

Property viewings are also still allowed, with guidance issued on the importance of following national guidance on moving home safely , which includes points on social distancing, sufficient air flow and face coverings.

This is obviously great news for all of us who spent 2020 ‘trapped’ in our houses and envisaging bigger rooms, spacious gardens and considering the benefits of a home office for the first time.

So, whether you’re looking to take the first step on the property ladder, upsize, downsize, buy another property or add to your portfolio, here are all the reasons why January 2021 is the perfect time to be thinking about making a move.

1. Make savings with the Stamp Duty holiday

One of the main reasons why now is a great time to move, has to be the Stamp Duty Holiday that was announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak in 2020 and is currently still in effect.

In a nutshell, the ‘holiday’ has come to being because the government has temporarily increased the stamp duty threshold to £500,000 for property sales in England and Northern Ireland.

This will considerably reduce costs for homebuyers, and even people buying homes worth more than £500,000 will enjoy substantial financial benefits as more expensive properties will only be taxed on their value above that amount. For example, buyers purchasing a home from Harvey Homes would be able to save up to £15,000!

Not a bad little saving at all!

According to a survey of 2000 people by Skipton Building Society’s Group owned estate agency Connells, the stamp duty holiday has really opened up buyers’ options:

It has ‘made it possible for 33 per cent to consider increasing the size of the property’ they are looking for.
It also makes it ‘possible for 62 per cent of those who have considered moving to buy somewhere which needs a little money spending for renovations and decorating.’
‘58 per cent of respondents like the idea that they could free up some cash to landscape or do up an outdoor space.’

Whatever it is that you would do with your stamp duty savings, be sure to start the house moving process soon, as all moves have to be completed by Wednesday, 31st March 2021.

2. Make the most of lots of options

The period between Christmas and New Year is always a busy period, with Rightmove hits topping 150 million visitors at this time in 2019 . 2020 was no exception to this – maybe being cooped up for Christmas with family makes people dream of a new sanctuary!

This means that there are many options for people to consider at the moment and now is the perfect time for you to be ahead of other house buyers, and the millions of other searchers out th ere who are looking for similar attributes that you are.

3. Don’t lose sight of your new goals

With 2020 being an extremely turbulent year, it is no wonder that many of us set new goals for ourselves and started thinking about what was really important.

This might be a move to the countryside, getting closer to some local amenities, a bigger garden or even a hankering for more spacious and flexible living areas.

Whatever your new moving goal, don’t let it slip through your fingers. 2021 is the year for making a change and looking to the future, leaving the doom and gloom of the last 12 months behind us.

4. So much time and space

With travel restrictions in full force, it is unlikely many of us are travelling far this year so instead of binging on another Netflix series, why not truly make the most of your time and invest it in the future of your home.

Moving home can be one of the most time-consuming and stressful periods in someone’s life (when it’s not manged by Harvey Homes of course) so take advantage of all your fr ee time this year and put it into something productive – a new home!

Whether you have been thinking of a house move for a while, or are at the start of your journey, considering your options and securing happiness for your future is always a worthwhile pursuit.

While current times certainly are strange times, there really has never been a better time to get moving!

Harvey Homes spreads hope with local primary school children

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 17:09:33 GMT

Bespoke housebuilder Harvey Homes has partnered with a local school in Knutsford to run a festive competition in order to raise money for Knutsford charity, Hope Central.

The team at Harvey Homes, as part of their #AHugFromHarvey community work, challenged the pupils at Lower Peover C.E Primary School to design and decorate a Christmas bauble as beautifully as possible, using the idea of ‘Hope’ as inspiration.

Harvey Homes’ development of 30 homes in Lower Peover is just a few minutes’ walk from the primary school, with the two organisations having previously worked together on other projects.

Hope Central works to bring hope and relieve poverty in North East Cheshire. It runs a food bank as well as having three centres where those in need can access further support. While the team originally wanted to gather food donations alongside the competition, COVID precautions meant that this was not possible, and therefore a Virgin Money Giving page was set-up instead for the pupils and their families to provide donations alongside their designs.

A winning bauble design has now been chosen for each year group, as well as an overall winner:

Reception: Edward
Year 1: Aapo
Year 2: Alfie
Year 3: Anna
Year 4: Pippa
Year 5: Jack
Year 6: Oliver
Overall winner: Cici from Year 2

Co-Founder and Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe , said: “2020 has not been the year any of us expected and charities like Hope Central have been fundamental in supporting local communities and keeping spirits up.

“We wanted to try and give them some extra support at this time of year, as well as giving the local school children some festive fun. All the designs we received were fantastic and truly encapsulated the theme of ‘hope’ – something that has been so important to all of us this year. We’d like to say thank you to all the children and parents who have got involved in our competition, for their entries and donations.

“Lower Peover C.E Primary School is a real asset of the local village and a huge draw for many of the families who are interested in the homes at Swan Green.”

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, Lower Peover C.E Primary School, was founded in 1710 and is a well-established and thriving educational setting for children aged 4-11.

Harvey Homes talks with ... Tim Irlam

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 21:38:41 GMT

Harvey Homes is lucky enough to work with a valuable network of people who each bring something unique and valuable to our offering. The collaborative way we work allows us to reach new heights of excellence and ensures that the homes we create are of the highest quality possible.

One of our partners is Knutsford-headquartered Irlams Estate Agents who we started working with earlier this year. Irlams is an independent estate agent specialising in Sales and Letting, headed up by Director and Founder Tim Irlam. He has a wealth of knowledge of the local area and many years’ experience dealing within its prosperous property market. Irlams itself has a reputation for excellent customer service.

We recently caught up with Tim to find out more about the agency and what keeps him motivated…

Can you give us a brief overview of Irlams?

We are an independent family-run business that was formed by myself and my wife in 2013. Since then, we have enjoyed fantastic organic growth which has mainly been thanks to our reputation in the local area and lots of loyal clients. Unparalleled customer service really is at the heart of everything we do, and we also have a young and energetic team who want to be successful and they understand that hard work is the key to this.

What has your career been like?

I suppose my career started the day after my 13th birthday! This is the day I started helping in my family’s haulage business. While most of my friends were going to parties at the weekends, I was loading wagons and learning about the value of a strong work ethic. My family have owned a variety of businesses in Cheshire, so this entrepreneurial streak was instilled into me from a young age.

When I was younger, I was really interested in property and architecture – building things with Lego was my favourite thing to do as a child. Having worked within the family business until I was 21, I decided to get involved within the property industry at a nation-wide estate agent where I gained valuable experience.

After a few years, I decided it was time to branch out on my own as I had good links within the community and enough knowledge to be successful. I was watching property prices rise and knew that there would never be a better time.

Eight years later I am so glad that I took the plunge! I’m only 34 at the moment so I still think of myself as being at the start of my career and it’ll certainly be interesting to see what the future holds!

What does a usual day consist of for you?

Every day is different – that’s part of the fun!

I usually get to the office for around 7am and check my emails, catch up on finances and get myself up to speed with any new sales or lettings opportunities that have come our way.

After a brief team meeting, I’m mostly out on the road whether that is undertaking valuations, viewings or developing relationships with our clients. During office time I am dealing with the day-to-day running of the estate agency. There’s certainly no time to be bored!

What keeps you motivated at work each day?

I think probably, the variety of what each day entails is what keeps me motivated!

Fundamentally of course, it also comes down to family and wanting to provide for them and for Irlams reputation to be the best it can be. Receiving positive feedback is great and it’s always a lovely feeling seeing the smiles on the faces of our clients and watching my business grow and develop. My end goal is to be known as the best estate agents in Cheshire.

How would you characterise the property market in Knutsford?

There is a real eclectic mix of houses, buyers and vendors in Knutsford that I think adds a lot to its overall character. One day you can be helping to showcase a £2M house and then next minute you could be doing a viewing at a £200,000 apartment round the corner.

It is a very cosmopolitan town in Knutsford which creates its own unique atmosphere and charm, rather than it being just another suburb of Manchester. The vibrant mix of people, independent shops and characterful houses also makes it much more friendly than some of the surrounding areas and I think that is reflected in the property market.

How do you think coronavirus has impacted the local property market?

Initially it did create uncertainty and in April/May people were expecting to get massive deals on properties that just didn’t materialise. However, I think that COVID has actually ended up creating a big demand. After everyone having experienced lockdown at home means that the desire to find a new or better home has been heightened and this is certainly true in Knutsford and the surrounding areas. The Stamp Duty reprise also gave a massive boost and our sales teams really have been so busy!

We have ended up having record sales months this year which I think show just how resilient the market is in this region. Knutsford is a place that will always be in demand and things like Brexit and COVID certainly don’t get in the way of this.

What is your company’s focus at the moment?

Of course, our number one priority at the moment is creating a safe environment for clients and staff while continuing to provide an excellent service. Everything we are doing has been streamlined so we’re more efficient than ever before.

What do you think of Harvey Homes’ properties?

Swan Green is a very unique development because you don’t often get that type of quality new build in the Knutsford area. The design of the homes is great, and they are set within a stunning location. The homes themselves feel really superior and the design, fit-out and finish really accentuates this.

Aside from the properties themselves, the location of Lower Peover couldn’t be better (not that I’m biased by living there myself!) and it has buckets of community spirit and character. There are some amazing pubs, a fantastic primary school and nursery and some very interested local legends as well – it is thought that the idea of the D-Day Landing was conceived in the Bells of Peover Pub during the time that Field Marshall Patten was stationed at Peover Hall!

I personally love living in Lower Peover and couldn’t think of anywhere better for a family to settle.

What has it been like working with the Harvey Homes team?

Working with the Harvey Homes team is a breath of fresh air compared to some developers. They are happy to work with us collaboratively rather than just instructing us what to do. They are very good at making the most of our local knowledge and it’s great to work with a young and dynamic team which shares the same values and ethics as us.

What do you think the stand-out feature of a Harvey Homes property is?

I would say the on-point design for a modern family, both internally and externally. The bathrooms, open plan and separate living areas would give any family the space they need and to top it off, the kerb appeal is amazing as well!

Harvey Homes looks pretty in pink

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 16:40:40 GMT

In October, we were very proud to support Breast Cancer Now’s ‘Wear it Pink’ Day.

‘Wear it Pink’ Day is an annual charitable event which sees fundraisers and supports wearing pink clothes – either individual items or whole ensembles – to raise money for breast cancer care and research.

It is known as one of the largest fundraising events in the UK calendar, and has raised more than £33 million for breast cancer research over the 17 years it has been running.

The annual event coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is in October and has been taking place ever since 1985.

There are around 55,2000 new breast cancer cases diagnosed in the UK every year which is around 150 every day. It is a disease that touches so many, including our own people, either through being personally affected or having a loved one impacted.

The whole team got involved in the day by wearing pink and donating some money – from Director Tom to Missie the dog, who we have to say looked dapper in her pink bow tie!

Tom said: “We were very happy to be involved in ‘Wear it Pink’ Day this year – it was the first time we’ve done it but I’m sure not the last! It raises money for such a worthwhile cause and our small contribution helps to make difference.”

Harvey Homes builds a new estate agency team

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 16:09:21 GMT

Bespoke developer Harvey Homes is taking its flagship Swan Green development in Knutsford to new heights by creating a strategic collaboration with a new estate agent team.

Director Tom Harvey Ratcliffe has appointed two estate agents, one each from Knutsford and Altrincham in order to reach out to local buyers from these two key areas.

Irlam’s of Knutsford and Ian Macklin & Company from Altrincham have each been tasked with marketing Harvey Homes’ few remaining four and five-bedroom homes.

Several homes at Swan Green are set to be complete and ready for families to move into this autumn, with the rest due to be completed over the next 18 months. 60% of all homes at the development have now been purchased or reserved. The Stamp Duty Holiday means that there has never been a better time to buy, with huge savings available for property hunters.

Commenting on the partnership, Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe (who co-founded the business with his father, Nick Ratcliffe in 2018), said: “From current sales we know that the development is popular with buyers from both Knutsford and Altrincham, so it seems fitting to work with a partner from each area.

“The coronavirus pandemic over the past few months has shown just how important your home is as it needs to be a welcoming space for all family members that can be flexible to their needs. We believe that our homes at Swan Green fit this perfectly.

“Both Irlams and Ian Macklin know their prospective buyers well and understand what they need. We’re confident that, between them, they can help local families find their dream homes.”

Tim Irlam from Irlams said: “The team at Harvey Homes is dedicated to achieving the highest quality in their homes so it is fantastic to be able to work together. We pride ourselves on having the best homes from Knutsford and surrounding areas on our books and I’m sure that our innovative marketing techniques will get the job done quickly.”

Chris Macklin from Ian Macklin & Co. said: “We have been working with families and house buyers from across Hale, Hale Barns, Bowdon, Altrincham, Timperley & Sale for many years. Interestingly, we’ve recently seen that these same buyers now have their eye on Knutsford as well, so we are delighted to expand our offering. The quality of the homes at Swan Green is fantastic and this is reflected in the fact that we’ve already receiving a considerable number of enquiries about them.”

One of the latest families to reserve a home at Swan Green is the Gorton family who commented that: “We were first attracted to the homes at Swan Green due to the area and the beautiful show home . . . We are all very excited to move in!”

The Swan Green development is a hidden gem in the heart of Cheshire, just 3 miles from the hub of Knutsford town-centre and with a whole host of useful amenities on its doorstep in Lower Peover. The four and five-bedroom homes feature large living spaces, modern technology and thoughtful storage solutions. Prices of the homes range from £735K to £855K.

The show home at Swan Green in Knutsford is open Monday-Friday for appointments only, and Saturday/Sunday from 11-2pm. All appropriate social distancing measures are being followed.

To enquire about the homes at Swan Green or to make an appointment to see the show home, please contact the team at 0161 468 2728 or hello@harvey-homes.co.uk .

Harvey Homes talks with ... Marie Charnley

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 15:02:58 GMT

Here at Harvey Homes, we are well aware that some of our success can be attributed to the dedicated partners that we work with. The collaborative relationships that we have created bring out the best of our properties and help us to reach families who are looking for their new home.

Marie Charnley Interiors is one such partner – the team’s work at our Swan Green show home has been fantastic, with many visitors commenting on the luxe design and feel.

The established interior design company is based in Cheshire and predominantly practices in the North West of England as well as in Spain. They have an impressive portfolio of projects; from complete bespoke interior design on large residential homes to contemporary show homes and apartments. The interiors they create reflect the individual personality and lifestyle of each client, and this has fostered a reputation for excellence and a flawless track record.

We recently spoke to Marie Charnley herself, to find out more about the work she did with Harvey Homes, what motivates her and what the future holds for interior design…

CAN YOU GIVE US A BRIEF HISTORY / OVERVIEW OF MARIE CHARNLEY INTERIORS AND YOUR CAREER?

I originally showed a bit of a flair for interior design at school where I particularly loved art and sewing but I didn’t go down that route career-wise until much later. Interestingly, I originally trained as a children’s nurse and then became a paediatric nurse which I loved for many years.

However, in 2004 I went back into training and enrolled at The National Academy of Design at Nottingham University. While training I undertook some work experience at a company called ‘Show us your rooms’ and also worked a bit with my husband who is an architect and is in development. I ended up acing my course and then went to work full-time with ‘Show us your rooms’ for around five years, where I focused on dressing apartments and show homes.

After the Economic Crash in 2007 there was a devastating knock on effect to the housing market. As a direct result I decided to take the plunge and become my “own boss”. Consequently, Marie Charnley Interiors was launched in 2009. I quite quickly secured a steady flow of private customers focusing on soft furnishings via the local Interior shop Wilmslow Interiors, helping customers choose fabrics and wallpapers initially to compete a given space, then increasing my scope to include fixtures, fittings and furniture – the full design package.

Alongside my private clients, myself and my team began to focus on larger developments, providing a wide range of design advice to incorporate all internal finishes for developers and their newly built houses, from the bathrooms, kitchens, floor finishes and lighting. Over the years I have established a portfolio of trade contacts and strong working relationships with many trades to name a few locally; Wilmslow Interiors and Arighi Bianchi.

WHAT IS YOUR WORKING RELATIONSHIP LIKE WITH HARVEY HOMES?

I was recommended to Harveys Homes by Mike Kennedy. I met the team, pitched for the job and our working relationship has gone from strength-to-strength. They agreed a generous budget for their show home at Swan Green (they’re not one to cut corners) and aside from a general colour scheme and flow, they gave us free reign to do what we do best!

I really wanted to do a good job for them as I hope to work with them on more of their developments in the future. I’m very pleased with how the show home at Swan Green turned out and know that they are too. They are a very personable team and I love that they are a family-run business. It’s great to see a father and son working together so well.

WHAT STANDS OUT FOR YOU ABOUT THE HARVEY HOMES PROPERTIES?

It’s simple – the houses are so spacious, and all the rooms are naturally filled with so much light that it was a real joy to work in them. The generous room sizes and high ceilings mean that the interior design was quite easy – no matter what I put into the Tabley home it was always going to look good! We worked with the Harvey Homes team to ensure we didn’t miss any attention to detail and to ensure that everything flows well and that the quality of the homes themselves is allowed to sing. The location of Swan Green is particularly amazing as well and I’m quite proud to have been involved in its conception.

DID YOU DO ANYTHING UNIQUE FOR THE HARVEY HOMES SHOW HOME?

The properties are very much for discerning buyers and we want to reflect that with high-end products in the homes. The design, finishes and bathrooms are all chosen to be very good quality and unique – just like the homes themselves! For example, they are my only client to have allowed us to feature an Eames chair and it stands in pride of place in the study window.

WHAT IS YOUR COMPANY’S FOCUS AT THE MOMENT?

We are currently lucky enough to have a very diverse array of clients and projects. We work with private clients to bring their vision to life and to make them smile whenever they enter a room of their home. For our developers, we are given a bit more freedom and it’s great to get my creative juices flowing to showcase the best of their developments. It’s important to ensure that we match a property to a target market. For example – an apartment in Manchester would be designed very differently to how we did the family home in Knutsford for Harvey Homes.

WHAT DOES A USUAL DAY CONSIST OF FOR YOU?

One day to the next is totally different. Some days are all about negotiating with trade to ensure a project comes in on time and to budget. Other days are all about my children, whether that’s the school run or helping them with their homework. I love the independence of working for myself and the flexibility that brings. I’m certainly never bored and have never looked back on my career choices

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED AT WORK EACH DAY?

I’m a real people pleaser and don’t like to let clients down. I love doing a good job and ensuring that I have a reputation that precedes my work – getting new business off the back of referrals is a fantastic feeling. I also think it’s important to be a good role model to my children and demonstrate what a strong work ethic is.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR INTERIOR DESIGN?

Coronavirus means that there certainly has been a bit of a rise of the ‘home-office’ recently. It amazes me how much trendy office furniture is out there! People are at home now more than ever before, but many are still too busy to design it themselves, so we are seeing an increase of enquiries on this level. At the end of the day, homes will always be being built and they have to continue to be spaces that are warm and welcoming and that is where interior design can truly make a difference!

Thank you so much for talking to us Marie and for your continued support of Harvey Homes!

Make an easy move

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:47:40 GMT

Easy Move package now available on 'Tabley' homes

2020 might not have transpired in the way that we all thought but there is still time to make the most of it.

To make life easier for buyers, our Easy Move package is now available on our Tabley-style homes in Knutsford and enables purchasers to move into their new home with a smooth & enjoyable transition for the whole family.

When combined with the savings that can be made due to the government’s newly introduced Stamp Duty holiday , it means there’s never been a better time to find a new home. The SDLT was implemented in July and will be in place until March 2021. It will considerably reduce costs for homebuyers, and people buying homes worth more than £500,000 will enjoy substantial financial benefits as more expensive properties will only be taxed on their value above that amount.

If customers move into a Tabley before April 2021, they can benefit from savings up to £35,000 due to Stamp Duty savings and our Easy Move incentive. Part exchange is also available on selected plots. The Tabley is a four-bedroom detached home that features a handmade kitchen, modern technology and designer bathrooms. At the rear, stretching across the full width of the home is a fabulous open plan kitchen, dining and family room creating one large versatile living/relaxing/entertaining space. Two sets of bi-fold doors help connect the interior accommodation to the outside and are perfect for sunny days and socialising. Upstairs are four impressive sized double bedrooms of which two benefit from an en-suite and the remaining bedrooms are served by a luxurious family bathroom.

MAKE THE MOST OF 2020

If this year teaches us anything, it’s that quality time with our loved ones is the most precious commodity. The architecture of a building makes a real difference to how people interact with each other; for example, light-filled and generously sized rooms can allow families to come together while also having their space. The team from Harvey Homes strongly believes in this ethos and has designed all of its homes at the Swan Green development in Knutsford accordingly. Each one of the 30 stylish homes incorporate beautiful and spacious living spaces, alongside helpful storage features and designer touches.

Swan Green itself is a hidden gem in the heart of Cheshire. The homes there have the advantage of being surrounded by beautiful countryside, while being just a stone’s throw away from the popular and bustling town of Knutsford.

Tom Harvey Ratcliffe, Director of Harvey Homes, commented: “This past year has certainly put life into perspective. Lockdown measures have certainly shown that having a home that facilitates family time can be fundamental to our happiness.

“For example, it used to be that a kitchen was just a place to cook, but these days kitchens are the main living space for families where they come together for both celebratory and day-to-day activities. For this reason, all the kitchens at our Swan Green homes have been specifically designed so that they can be flexible spaces that suit every member of a family.”

THE HEART OF THE HOME

The kitchen is the most important room in the home, a hugely versatile space for the creation of great cuisine and even greater conversation.

Each of the kitchens at Swan Green has been designed and supplied by Second Nature, one of Britain’s leading independently owned kitchen suppliers and a fourth-generation family business. The team works closely with Europe’s most reputable manufacturers to deliver style, quality and innovation to its customers. Each of their ranges offers an abundance of storage space and uncluttered worksurfaces for easy food preparation.

All of the kitchens are available in a wide choice of contemporary colours. Integrated into each kitchen scheme is a range of high performance ‘A’ rated kitchen appliances from a leading manufacturer.

The kitchen that features in our Tabley properties is an in-frame Shaker with a refreshed aesthetic. It has proved popular due to the traditional look being combined with modern features such as a quartz worktop, pop-up downdraft, plate warming drawer and pop up tower sockets. “The kitchens at Swan Green are a perfect balance of function and aesthetic. Being predominantly family homes, the space has to look good whilst also working really hard to support lots of different daily activities, and people!” – The Second Nature Design Team, Graeme Smith & Jennifer Dixon.

Lots to do in Lower Peover

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 23:52:23 GMT

For a small village there’s certainly lots to do in Lower Peover!

Harvey Homes’ Swan Green development isn’t special just because of the quality of the homes, it is also located in a very special place indeed – Lower Peover. Lower Peover itself is a beautiful and peaceful village in the civil parish of Nether Peover in the authority of Cheshire East. It is just 4 miles from Knutsford and 6 miles from Northwich.

Harvey Homes chose Lower Peover as the location for its first ever development due to the appeal of the village and the community feel of the area. While you are surrounded by beautiful countryside and only 5 minutes’ drive from the hub of Knutsford town centre, there is certainly lots to do in Lower Peover itself and it has a great many useful amenities.

Just a short walk from the homes at Swan Green are the following:

The Country Store & Post Office – 0.3 miles
The Crown Inn – 0.2 mile
The Bells of Peover – 0.8 miles
Lower Peover Primary School – 0.8 miles
Seven Sisters Ice Cream Farm – 2.4 miles

Let’s take a closer look at some of these places and find out why Lower Peover is just the perfect spot for families and couples alike!

THE CROWN INN

The Crown Inn is a short walk from the homes at Swan Green and is a traditional village pub that is known for its warm welcome and home-cooked food. They host regular quiz nights, feature live music evenings and serve up delicious Sunday Roasts, pizzas and other pub favourites. In the summer months you can spend your time with family and friends in the beer garden, while in the colder seasons you can cosy up near the flickering log fire and enjoy warming food and drink.

It’s described in reviews as:

“Lovely friendly country pub with superb food well worth a visit you won't be disappointed.”

“So nice to visit a proper country pub! Lovely home-made food, and such a warm welcome, definitely worth a visit, we will definitely be back! Thanks Team Crown!”

“Fantastic country Inn in the heart of Cheshire. We received a lovely welcome and the food was delicious. The team were outstanding and went out of their way to make us comfortable. The interiors were spotless. I will be back!”

THE BELLS OF PEOVER

Residents of Lower Peover have not one but two fantastic eateries to choose from! The Bells of Peover has previously been named as Cheshire Life’s Dining Pub of the Year and is a beautiful Grade 1 listed dining pub that serves everything from homemade bar snacks to a full a la carte menu.

The pub is known for its stylish and relaxed setting and its large landscaped garden. The food is renowned in the local area and the produce is sourced from local, respected suppliers meaning that you can be assured of the highest quality ingredients. They have a separate Sunday Roast Menu, as well as a Vegan Menu and Gluten-free menu alongside their usual a la carte offering.

Dog lovers will be pleased to know that The Bells of Peover is also dog friendly. Reviews of The Bells of Peover are high, with clientele saying:

“A good old-fashioned pub, with amazing food and staff, who clearly love what they do, it was a pleasure!”

“The beer garden is very spacious and in beautiful surroundings. Service was quick and friendly. Highly recommend for a traditional pub meal.”

SEVEN SISTERS ICE CREAM FARM

As if two pubs weren’t enough for the residents of Lower Peover, the village also features its very own ice cream farm. Seven Sisters looks over the Cheshire countryside and is perhaps the best example of what an ice cream parlour should be! The ice cream is made in small batches every day and there are unusual flavours on offer all the time. There are also sundaes, crazy milkshakes and waffles made to order, as well as a variety of light lunch options.

As part of the Seven Sisters Ice Cream Farm, it also features a Maize Maze which is open in the warmer months and proves to be a great hit for family and friends alike – why not spend an hour getting lost!? The Yard room of Seven Sisters also offers classes and events such as yoga, Pilates, cardio classes, as well as pop-up shops and services.

ST. OSWALDS CHURCH

So, what else is there to do in Lower Peover? Well, St Oswalds Church is not to be missed. With its beautiful stained-glass windows, impressive history and well-maintained grounds, this 14th Century Church is a lovely part of the village. The interior of St Oswalds Church features massive oak columns, a bogwood font and an ancient oak chest, while the gardens around it are well-looked after by a team of dedicated volunteers.

THE TREE OF IMAGINATION

Yes, you read that right – The Tree of Imagination. This impressive structure is a fantastic and unique part of what there is to do in Lower Peover. It was a community project made possible by the residents and businesses in Lower Peover and it was created to delight and inspire children, and all those who are still young at heart. The roof of The Tree of Imagination features an owl box, a bat box and a nesting box. The project was awarded a ‘Little Gem’ award by the Cheshire Community Action, Community Pride Competition in 2015.

So, there we have it – so many things to see and do all in one beautiful village setting. To see it all and to find out whether Lower Peover is the place for your family, why not take a walk around the village and take in the sights, like this one recommended by Cheshire Life .

If your interest has been piqued and you want to see what type of home you could have in Lower Peover, then make sure you contact the Harvey Homes team today by emailing hello@harvey-homes.co.uk or calling 0161 468 2728 .

Schools near Swan Green

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 16:20:33 GMT

New residents of Harvey Homes’ Swan Green development in Knutsford have been delighted to find a range of great schools nearby.

Our Swan Green development has proven to be enormously popular with families who have chosen it due to its rural location yet proximity to an array of great amenities. The location of Swan Green was chosen so homeowners can walk out of their front door and stroll to the various eateries in the village of Lower Peover, as well as the local Primary School and the Post Office. They can also hop in their car and be in the centre of Knutsford in just five minutes.

Being at the heart of Cheshire doesn’t just mean that the homes benefit from being surrounded by beautiful countryside, but there is also a plethora of fantastic schools nearby as well. The development is lucky enough to be in a very fortunate catchment area, with several excellent educational facilities being close by that can cater for children from the ages of 4 to 18.

The schools near Swan Green all have excellent reputations and families in the area count themselves lucky to have a range of options available to them. In this blog we provide you with some information about four schools near Swan Green – two primary schools and two secondary schools – that would all be good options for families with children who are moving to the area.

Lower Peover Church of England Primary School

Founded in 1710, Lower Peover Church of England Primary School has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and is a well-established and thriving educational setting. Pupils are between the ages of 4 and 11 and they are given the opportunity to develop and excel in a safe, quiet and friendly atmosphere, while the school strives for the highest academic, artistic, sporting and social successes.

It is located at the end of a cobbled lane next to the historic St Oswald’s Church and is just a few minutes’ walk away from the Harvey Homes development at Swan Green. The school vision is: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” – Colossians 3:23

In the latest Ofsted report, it is stated that the children who attend Lower Peover CofE Primary School ‘make excellent progress during their time in school and achieve standards that are consistently high by the time they leave Year 6.’ The report also states that ‘Teaching is outstanding, and pupils learn at an exceptional rate. Lessons are very enjoyable and engaging so pupils are fully involved in their learning. Lessons are meticulously planned and build on pupils’ existing skills.’

In 2019, as part of Harvey Homes’ community engagement, we set a competition for the pupils at Lower Peover CofE Primary School to draw their best predictions for the homes of the future. Two classes from the school also recently got the opportunity to visit our Swan Green site in Lower Peover to get inspiration and to see for themselves what processes are involved in building luxury homes.

Peover Superior Primary School

Peover Superior Primary School is less than a 10-minute drive from the homes at Swan Gree n in Over Peover. Peover Superior is a delightful little village primary school set in the heart of rural Cheshire. With less than 100 pupils, the school focuses on fostering a family atmosphere at the school where children feel confident to express their individuality, their talents and know that success in any aspect of their lives will be rewarded and celebrated.

The staff, parents and local community work together to ensure that Peover Superior is a unique environment for children to learn, grow and flourish in. The school’s vision is: “Aspire - to be better, to be leaders and to be happy. We are small but mighty.” The children are taught in four mixed-aged classes, with a planned admission number of 15 new children each academic year.

Peover Superior was rated ‘outstanding’ in their most recent Ofsted inspection (2017). The report comments that the ‘Leadership is outstanding at Peover Superior Endowed Primary School. Leaders and governors provide a clear vision for excellence.’ It goes on to state: ‘Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding. It is evident in the high-quality discussions that pupils have in lessons and in the way in which they treat one another.’

Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School

Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School & Sixth Form College is a dynamic, innovative and ambitious Teaching School and Academy with a reputation for excellence in the area. It takes just over 10 minutes to drive from the homes at Swan Green to Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School.

Academic standards are very high, and the school was rated to be ‘good’ in its latest Ofsted inspection in February 2020. The report stated that: ‘At Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, pupils and students are delightful. They are courteous, respectful and full of praise for the quality of education that the school provides. ‘The pupils and students we spoke to said that their teachers are ambitious for them. In key stages 4 and 5, pupils and students benefit from a well-planned curriculum. The curriculum is supplemented by a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

‘By the end of key stage 4, pupils achieve well. This includes disadvantaged pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils are well prepared for the next stages of their education, employment or training. ‘Most students in the sixth form go on to higher education. Sixth-form students enjoy an effective programme of work-related learning. They achieve well on their A-level courses.’

Knutsford Multi-Academy Trust

Located in the heart of the historic town of Knutsford, Knutsford Academy provides secondary education to over 1200 students from ages 11 to 18. They are focused on Academic Excellence, a strong community and creating world class opportunities for their students. The school is also within the catchment area for the homes at Swan Green and is just a 10-minute drive away from the Harvey Homes development.

Students joining the Academy in Year 7 spend their first year at the Westfield Drive site settling into life at Knutsford Academy. We welcome students from an extensive range of local primary schools both from within Knutsford but also the local area including Northwich and south west Manchester. In Year 8 students move to the main site at Bexton Road where they remain through to Year 11 and the Sixth Form.

Knutsford Multi-Academy Trust was last inspected by Ofsted in 2016 and was rated to be ‘good’. The report states that: ‘Pupils make progress that at least matches that of similar pupils nationally in all subject areas. Pupils achieve particularly well in science, religious studies and dance. The school’s monitoring records show that current pupils‟ progress exceeds that of pupils who have recently left and that GCSE results are set to rise in 2016, particularly in English.’

The school’s examination results at A Level are consistently very strong – in 2019 they achieved a 100% pass rate for the fifth year in a row in over 30 subjects with 84% of all grades at C or above. At GCSE, results are substantially higher than the national average, in 2019 84% of all grades were a level 4 or above. The ongoing consistent results has seen the Academy feature as one of the top performing state schools on both a local and national basis.

What to do in Knutsford

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 23:35:12 GMT

Knutsford is an amazing town that is full of character and is now host to a fantastic range of pretty shops, delightful eateries and characterful bars, all nestled together on a backdrop of cobbled streets.

The main hub of the town is centred on two main streets – Princess Street, known locally as Top Street, and King Street, known as Bottom Street. There is certainly enough variety on these two streets alone to keep you occupied for a whole day.

Knutsford town itself is steeped in history. You can feel it in the ambience of the place as you explore side streets and admire the Georgian townhouses, black-and-white gabled buildings and whitewashed cottages. While strolling around it is easy to imagine how author Elizabeth Gaskells was inspired to write Cranford and indeed, fans of the novelist can often be seen interspersed amongst the shoppers and locals, following the Gaskell trail.

Harvey Homes’ latest development, Swan Green , is just three miles from Knutsford and just a five-minute drive from the hub of the town. The homes there have the advantage of being surrounded by beautiful countryside while being just a stone’s throw away from a popular and bustling town.

So, once you’ve bought your new home at Swan Green , how can you best spend a day out in Knutsford? Here we’ve put together a guide of what to do in Knutsford, from shops and strolls to days out and drinks. Enjoy!

MORNING

You can spend a delightful morning (or even a whole day if you’re a shopaholic) in Knutsford perusing the many shops in the town. Many people from the region travel specially to Knutsford for shopping as it has a perfect mix of both high street and independent businesses. There are high-end dress shops, womenswear outlets, menswear shops, children’s boutiques, shoe shops, arthouses, antique houses, book shops and there’s even a perfumery for those people who are particular about the fragrance they wear.

Aside from these tempting shops that line the main streets and hide away in alleys, there is the Knutsford Market Hall that sells a range of fresh produce as well as home-made gifts. An award-winning artisan Maker’s Market also pops up on Princess Street on the first Sunday of every month.

LUNCH

When you’re ready to take a rest, make sure you pop into one of the many independently owned cafes that can be found all over Knutsford for a bite to eat and to rest your feet.

The Cranford Café and Sandwich Bar has plenty of gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options on the menu and is known for its generous breakfasts and moreish sandwiches.

The Tea Room is a very cosy café with both indoor and outdoor seating. Its delectable range of cakes, brownies and scones has people going back for more, time and time again.

The Neki Café is an eclectic place serving a wide variety of dishes made from local produce that will suit many tastes. The menu features quality coffee, breakfasts, brunches, salads, lunches and sweet treats.

AFTERNOON

After you’ve replenished yourself at lunch, head over to Tatton Park which is just a few minutes’ drive from the town centre. It is the perfect place for a family day out, with more than 1000 acres of parkland to explore, a farm, playground, historic mansion and beautiful formal gardens that even feature a maze. The parkland is renowned for being a great spot to walk or cycle round and there are several routes you can take while you try your hand at wildlife spotting to see the red deer and other animals that live in the park.

The farm at Tatton Park is open throughout the year, every day in the summer and at weekends only in the low season. It is a perfect place for children to get close to animals such as donkeys, cows, poultry, horses, sheep and pigs. National Trust Members can enjoy free entry to the Mansion and Gardens and 50% discount on entry to the farm.

EVENING

After you’ve fulfilled your need for nature, head back into Knutsford town and choose from the plethora of restaurants and eateries. It has frequently been said that Knutsford has got the best selection of restaurants and cafes in Cheshire.

Whether you’re wanting a family meal, a cosy romantic date or a catch up with friends, Knutsford is sure to have a restaurant perfect for you and there is every type of cuisine imaginable, from Indian to Italian, to French and Spanish. These restaurants include:

Evuna is a gorgeous Spanish tapas restaurant that is located in a grade 2 listed Tudor building. Its fresh dishes and casual atmosphere mean it’s always a great choice.
Brasserie Blanc is an upscale chain brasserie serving a classically French menu that is devised by celebrity chef Raymond Blanc.
Enjoy Indian street food and authentic curries at the modern Indian restaurant that is Margao.
Indulge your cheese and wine habit in The Cheese Yard which is a very cosy and charming eatery and shop.
Good food and drinks await you at The Botanist in surroundings that are eclectic and comfy.
The Courthouse is a very upscale restaurant that serves up all day dining classics, inspiring cocktails, fine wines & champagne in luxury surroundings.

Once you’ve eaten, you can either head to the cinema or paint the town red at one of the many bars and pubs.

Although closed at the moment (July 2020) due to coronavirus. The much-loved cinema in Knutsford – The Curzon Knutsford – is a beautifully refurbished three-screen cinema that features a bar where you can enjoy cocktails and light bites before your movie.

The range of pubs and bars in Knutsford is enough for any discerning drinker, with traditional pubs alongside swanky bars. Try The Rose & Crown, The White Bear, the Cross Keys Hotel, the Lost & Found Bar or April’s Kitchen and it is sure to be a night to remember!

So, there we have it – that should give you a pretty great overview of what to do in Knutsford and why it is a great place to live. It certainly seems to hit that sweet spot of having a fantastic range of shops, eateries and watering holes all nestled together in beautiful surroundings. And the best part? Our selection of four and five-bedroom detached homes at Swan Green is just a stone’s throw away!

Stamp Duty savings at Swan Green

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 23:21:26 GMT

There was great news for house buyers this week (Wednesday, 8th July 2020) when the Chancellor announced a significant holiday on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) for the first £500,000 of all property sales in England and Northern Ireland.

The changes to SDLT are expected to boost the property market and help buyers who may have otherwise been struggling to buy a new home because of coronavirus. The stamp duty holiday has been implemented with immediate effect and will be in place until March 2021.

WHAT IS STAMP DUTY AND WHAT HAS CHANGED?

Stamp duty is a tax paid by people buying properties, although it varies slightly across the UK. The government has temporarily increased the stamp duty threshold to £500,000 for property sales in England and Northern Ireland until 31 March 2021.

This will considerably reduce costs for homebuyers and even people buying homes worth more than £500,000 will enjoy substantial financial benefits as more expensive properties will only be taxed on their value above that amount. See below for an example of how buyers could save £15,000 in stamp duty on their new Harvey Home due to the new tax rules.

The new stamp duty rules include the following guidelines:

The stamp duty holiday and price band revision will apply for both first-time buyers and people who have previously owned a property.
If the property being purchased costs more than £500,000, then the buyer will pay stamp duty based on the revised rate bands.
If a buyer is purchasing a second home, they’ll still pay stamp duty on properties that cost more than £40,000 at the new revised rates – paying an extra 3%.
The new tax applies to both freehold and leasehold properties.
The new tax applies whether a buyer is buying outright or with a mortgage.
The changes to stamp duty will only apply to buyers in England and Northern Ireland.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has suggested that the average stamp duty bill in England and Northern Ireland will fall by £4,500, with nearly 90% of people buying a main home this year paying no stamp duty at all.

Commenting on the budget announcement, Sunak said: "Throughout this crisis I have never been the prisoner of ideology," Sunak said. "For me, this has never just been a question of economics, but of values.

"We believe in the nobility of work. We believe in the inspiring power of opportunity. We believe in the British people’s fortitude and endurance.

"Our plan has a clear goal: to protect, support and create jobs. It will give businesses the confidence to retain and hire. To create jobs in every part of our country. To give young people a better start. To give people everywhere the opportunity of a fresh start."

A HARVEY HOMES STAMP DUTY EXAMPLE

At Harvey Homes’ Swan Green development in Knutsford, we have a wide variety of different house types available that have all been designed with families in mind. We are delighted to hear that property buyers in England and Northern Ireland are being given a helping hand by the government. There are significant savings available now for buyers who are interested in the homes at Swan Green .

If we take our house-style The Tabley for example, then buyers will save an impressive £15,000! This is because the purchase price of The Tabley is £855,000 and if the property is set to be your main home, then you won’t pay any stamp duty on the first £500,000. The next portion of the property's price (£355,000) will be taxed at just 5%.

The Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) you owe is calculated as follows:

0% on the first £500,000 = £0
5% on the final £355,000 = £17,750
Total SDLT = £17,750 (instead of £32,750)

MAKE A MOVE THIS SUMMER

These significant savings show that that there has never been a better time for buyers to find their dream home. Harvey Homes’ Swan Green site is a hidden gem in the heart of Cheshire, just 5 minutes from the hub of Knutsford town-centre and with a whole host of useful amenities on the doorstep.

The four and five-bedroom homes feature large living spaces, modern technology and thoughtful storage solutions.

The Chancellor’s announcement shows that it is now the time to make the most of 2020 and to make a hassle-free move this summer with Harvey Homes!

Is 'working from home' affecting property purchases?

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 23:13:55 GMT

Working from home is now the new normal for millions of people across the UK. This is, of course, because of the coronavirus pandemic and the efforts individuals and businesses are making across the UK to stay at home and to stay safe.

Zoom calls and makeshift home offices are now commonplace, with long commutes and packed lunches a distant memory. The growth of the ‘working from home’ brigade has certainly been exacerbated by coronavirus, but the number of people working from home in the UK has been growing exponentially over the last few years anyway.

According to the latest research by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), 30% of UK employees worked from home at some point during 2019. The same research shows that the percentage of people that mainly work from home has increased since 2015. Further to this, Lloyds Bank provided financial website This is Money with exclusive data earlier this year showing that almost a quarter of Brits ‘work flexibly across different locations.’ So, is the working from home trend set to continue? And if it is then how will it affect people’s house-buying decisions and their interior design?

CHOOSING A HOME OR HOME OFFICE?

It appears as though working from home is becoming so popular that it is now a factor in people’s house choices. The aforementioned Lloyds Bank survey for This is Money also found that ‘two in five workers say when hunting a new property, it's important there is suitable space to work from home.’

In regard to the space required for remote working, ‘a purpose-created home office is the most common location from which to work, with almost a third using such a space, followed by the living room, dining room, bedroom and kitchen.’ Property expert Savills has also recently conducted some research with their registered buyers and sellers across the UK. The research found that many more buyers are considering a village or countryside location for their next move.

It is thought that the increased number of people who are working from home has had an effect on this, with Frances Clacy of the agency’s research team commenting: “Well-connected village locations, ideal for those who can split their working week between home and office, are likely to be in particular demand.” People may also find the idea of moving to the countryside, and therefore a longer commute to the city, to be more palatable if they are going to be travelling less and working from home more.

DESIGNING THE PERFECT 'WORKING FROM HOME' SPACE

Working from home has many advantages – no commute, no distracting office gossip, no expensive city centre parking to name but a few – but it can also end disastrously if you don’t get into the groove and watch too much daytime TV. So how do you create a space or an area that conveys an industrious and dynamic atmosphere that is perfect for home working? First of all, you have to consider what is essential for you:

How much desk space do you need?
Do you need any storage?
Do you need absolute peace and quiet or can you focus even when surrounded by the hustle and bustle of everyday life?
Do you have much equipment to help you work?
Can your work belongings be left out or must they be put away whenever you are not working?

Once you have answered these questions, you can decide whether you can just set yourself up with a nook somewhere or whether you need a dedicated room.

Then it’s just a case of scouring Pinterest and Instagram to find the most inspirational home office interior design!

THE FUTURE OF 'WORKING FROM HOME'

Even when the official ‘lockdown’ of the UK has ended, social distancing in public places, public transport and in workplaces may well remain in place for much longer. Additionally, many businesses may simply realise that the workforce is more efficient, more productive and more content when they are allowed to work from home, at least for some of the week.

Advances in technology are also helping to make working from home much easier due to better internet connections and shared filing systems. It seems as though Zoom calls and ‘commutes’ from bedrooms to kitchen tables or home offices may just be what lingers in the UK after coronavirus has long since faded away.

Harvey Homes’ properties at Swan Green in Knutsford are all perfectly designed to support working from home. All the homes at the development have sizable and flexible living spaces and many of the larger four and five-bedroom properties have ‘spare’ rooms that can be put to whatever use the buyer wants i.e. a home office – just like in the photo above!

The local village of Lower Peover is also the ideal countryside location, full of useful amenities for people working from home and also well-connected to the city of Manchester and the airport.

We have received an uplift in enquiries during the past three months with many viewers commenting on the large and flexible living spaces of our homes. If you are looking for a new start then make sure you contact our sales teams on 0161 468 2728 or email hello@harvey-Homes.co.uk .

Nominate a Neighbour winners announced

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 22:53:28 GMT

Coronavirus is doing its best to keep us apart from our loved ones, so the team at Harvey Homes decided that we would try and help us all come together again through a digital competition – Nominate a Neighbour.

The premise was simple – follow us on Instagram on Facebook, share/like our competition post and tag two people who you would like to nominate to be your neighbours. It was a chance to win a £50 Amazon gift voucher and to let your loved ones know that you are thinking of them at the same time.

Unsurprisingly, we got a flurry of responses and were so touched to see the reasons why people were tagging their friends and neighbours. We got comments such as (names changed for privacy reasons):

“I nominate Helen because she is beautifully kind and works so hard for the NHS as a midwife having to deliver babies to mums with the virus - my little lady in blue.”

“I nominate Andy. He’s working in a care home for disabled people. At the moment it’s extra hard, because a lot of his co-workers have to stay at home and the residents cannot go in the sheltered workshop too. It’s all a mess, but he’s doing so well and is still positive.”

“I'd love to nominate my daughter Sophie. She’s working hard in the supermarket making sure all the shelves are fully stocked and going that extra mile to help the elderly and vulnerable.”

“I wish I was neighbours with Jenny and Charlotte! It would be pretty amazing to look over the fence and have a catch up!”

“I’d love to be neighbours with Sarah and Fiona, I could only imagine the baking we could share between us and chats over the fence!”

“The amazing Kate and Barbara – they’re the most amazing and helpful and caring friends.”

“My neighbours have really come together to help each other in these tough times, it’s been amazing!”

These comments certainly gave us warm and fuzzy feelings! It’s so lovely to see such positivity and kindness being spread at a time like this. We’re pleased to share that we chose two winners – Hannah from our Facebook competition and Cassie from our Instagram competition. Both winners were delighted with their prizes!

Harvey Homes is a bespoke family-owned company and therefore we understand the importance of being together and supporting one another. All of the Harvey Homes properties are designed with families in mind, with light and spacious living quarters that bring people together while giving them space to be themselves.

All the homes at Swan Green offer generous bedroom sizes as well as large living spaces where families can dine, cook and relax. It is this design that has attracted so many people to the development already. It located in the friendly community of Lower Peover and is only a short walk away from many useful village amenities.

Countryside living in high demand

Thu, 21 May 2020 22:56:06 GMT

The UK, like many countries around the world, has been hit recently with stringent lockdown measures and families across the country have found themselves stuck at home. This prolonged time at home seems to have sparked a movement where people are considering their living spaces and realising that it is not just about the physical building but the space around it as well.

It seems obvious to say but houses in the country offer an awful lot in terms of quality of living. There’s naturally more room, more open space in which to roam around and the amenities and community feel of villages and market towns are increasingly sought-after.

City-dwellers have long defended their reasons for living on top of each other, but the country-wide lockdown appears to have blasted big holes in their reasoning and many more are considering a move to the country and are longingly looking at rural locations and countryside plots.

THE APPEAL OF THE COUNTRYSIDE

Agents and property consultants up and down the country are reporting that they have seen a massive surge of interest in prime country properties from people who want to escape their city life. Remote working is on the rise and people want space where they are free to move about more. All of a sudden, cities are starting to be viewed with anxiety and their lack of space, crammed parks and busy transport routes are now huge negatives.

Property expert Savills has recently conducted a survey with their registered buyers and sellers across the UK and found some interesting trends in terms of the desire to move to the country. 54 per cent of those with school-age children said that they now find a countryside location more attractive than before COVID-19 and four in ten regarded village locations as more appealing.

Frances Clacy of the agency’s research team said there would be a “rural renaissance”, suggesting that villages with useful amenities would find themselves suddenly in high demand.

Online property portal Rightmove has also reported a significant up-lift in searches by Londoners thinking about moving out of the city. There have been 51 per cent of inquiries of this nature recently compared to 42 per cent this time last year. Rightmove’s housing market commentator Miles Shipside said: “It’s not unusual for there to be a large proportion of would-be buyers considering a move out of a city if they’re looking for a more affordable place to buy for the first time, or to trade up but get more for their money, but there’s been a notable shift during lockdown of more contemplating out-of-city moves.”

REFLECTING ON WHAT IS IMPORTANT

The positivity of lockdown is that it has certainly slowed life down and given us all time to reflect. With life turned upside down at the moment, many people are taking this opportunity to look at their lives differently and consider what is important. Whereas big cities with all their entertainment and social scenes have been a huge enticement in the past, it now seems that rural villages with a slower pace of life and helpful amenities are now the place to be.

Further to this, the conventional dream of living in the city with a holiday home in the country is perhaps being turned on its head. People are realising that they can live in the country, enjoy the space and freedom for the majority of the time and only travel into the city when absolutely necessary.

There are a huge number of beautiful villages and towns across the UK, but the North seems to be particularly blessed with them. Cheshire especially has an abundance of characterful and friendly villages such as Knutsford, Poynton, Alderley Edge and Wilmslow. These popular suburbs of Manchester all have the perfect combination of pubs, green space and amenities and have the added benefit of being just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city centre. It is places exactly like these that are tempting more and more people away from their city dwellings and into the countryside.

HARVEY HOMES IN THE COUNTRY

Harvey Homes’ maiden development – Swan Green – is located in the heart of beautiful countryside in Knutsford and is surrounded by scenic landscapes and places to explore. Even better than this is the close proximity of the fabulous village of Lower Peover which has all the essential amenities as well as several cosy pubs!

We have certainly received an increase in enquiries from people looking for more space both in and around their homes and we’re expecting this trend to continue in the coming months and years. If you are looking to start your new life in the countryside then make sure you contact our sales teams on 0161 468 2728 or email hello@harvey-homes.co.uk .

Nominate a Neighbour Prize Draw

Sat, 16 May 2020 22:37:30 GMT

In these uncertain times, we are all wishing that our family and friends lived next door so that we could be bit closer to them, or even have a cup of tea together over the garden fence. Here at Harvey Homes, we are giving you the chance to win some Amazon-UK vouchers while letting your loved ones know that you are thinking of them.

To enter, you need to visit our social media pages and nominate two people who you would like to be neighbours with at the moment.

NOMINATE A NEIGHBOUR £50 AMAZON VOUCHER PRIZE DRAW

Facebook: Like and follow our page, share our competition post and tag two friends to nominate them!

Instagram: Follow our page, like our competition post and tag two friends to nominate them!

And it’s as simple as that! The closing date is Saturday, 30th May and we will then choose one winner from Instagram and one winner from Facebook.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

There is 1 prize of a £50 Amazon e-voucher.
Open to UK residents aged 16 and over, excluding employees and relatives of Harvey Homes
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
Closing date for entries is 6pm GMT on Saturday, 30th May 2020
Only one entry per person.

The rules of the competition and how to enter are as follows:

Facebook: Like and follow our page, share our competition post and tag two friends to nominate them!
Instagram: Follow our page, like our competition post and tag two friends to nominate them!
The winner will be chosen at random.
The winner will be informed by either a reply to their comment, e-mail plus a Facebook message within 4-5 days of the closing date and will need to respond within 14 days or a new winner will be chosen.
The winner’s name will be available on request and published on social media accounts and website.
The voucher will be emailed within 7-10 days of the winner confirming their address.
The promoter is Harvey Homes, whose registered office is at 7 Stamford Rd, Bowdon, Altrincham WA14 2JT.
By participating in this prize draw, entrants confirm they have read, understood and agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Network. You are providing your information to Harvey Homes and not to any other party.

Design competition winners announced

Tue, 12 May 2020 22:30:36 GMT

Our competition which challenged children across the North West to design their perfect lockdown home has resulted in a whole host of fantastic entries. From drawings, to models, to computer-designed extravaganzas, we were blown away with the quality of the work that was sent to us.

Some people preferred to focus on fun, with slides, aquariums and disco rooms, whereas others took a more serious approach and based their homes on simple living, with access to crops and farmland. With so many brilliant entries, it was a very difficult task for our judges who were really impressed with the designs that were submitted.

The first prize has been awarded based on a very modern design that doesn’t look unlike something our own architects would create themselves. Congratulations Daniel Warner! The two runners up are Nahja Aston and Sam Sugg who also submitted fascinating designs. All winners will receive Amazon vouchers and Harvey Homes goodie bag.

Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe helped to judge the competition and commented that: “Giving families homes that they are proud of is something that is really important to us and is why our houses are designed with flexible living spaces and high-quality features.

“With coronavirus keeping many people inside, we wanted to encourage children across the region to think about house design and have some fun while getting creative, and we are delighted with the responses that we have had.”

Harvey Homes fights back against Coronavirus

Wed, 06 May 2020 22:02:52 GMT

Cheshire-based Harvey Homes is bucking current trends in the coronavirus-affected property industry and strengthening its offering across the North West region. The bespoke developer’s maiden site, Swan Green in Knutsford, has a GDV of £15 million and 50% of all homes there have now been purchased or reserved, with several having been reserved since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Construction in Knutsford has also restarted today (Monday, 4th May), with appropriate public health measures being adopted.

Harvey Homes is also refusing to let coronavirus stand in the way of future projects and has two more sites currently waiting for planning permission, and several more potential new sites being surveyed and earmarked for development.

The management team at Harvey Homes is made up of many industry experts including Mike Kennedy, Paul Burgess and Stewart Chance. Mike Kennedy has more than 30 years’ experience in the residential property market, having previously been the managing director of Hillcrest Homes. He has weathered property storms before and is determined to ensure that Harvey Homes emerges unscathed from the Coronavirus cloud. The team is backed by its funding partner Together which provided a £7million finance package for the Knutsford development and continues to work with closely with the team.

Enquiries have been received for the largest four and five-bedroom houses, as well as the nine affordable homes at the site. All but one of these have now been reserved. The latest family to reserve a property at Swan Green is the Gorton family who commented that: “We were first attracted to the homes at Swan Green due to the area and the beautiful show home and we wanted to be closer to Lower Peover Primary School for our two young children. We are all very excited to move into our new home and are hoping that it will be sooner rather than later!”

Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe (who co-founded the business with his father, Nick Ratcliffe in 2018), said: “We are determined to build a better tomorrow for families across the North West and we have worked hard to ensure that the business remains operational despite the coronavirus crisis.

“The government has made it very clear how important the construction sector is for the country’s economy and we want to support this as much as we can. This includes the development of affordable houses which we are particularly supportive of – we believe that all families deserve high quality and beautiful homes.

“We are very fortunate to have the support of privately-owned bank Together who continue to support our pipeline development supply.”

Although the show home is currently closed due to Coronavirus social distancing measures, the team were quick to create a virtual tour of the property to ensure that potential buyers could still get a feel for the quality of the building work and finish. This approach has worked, with the team receiving strong enquiries on a daily basis.

All the homes at Swan Green , including the affordable housing units, offer generous bedroom sizes as well as large living spaces where families can come together to dine, cook and relax. It is this design that has attracted so many people to our development already.

The 30 homes at Swan Green range from two-bedroom mews and semi-detached homes to four and five-bedroom detached houses.

Property and the 2020 Budget

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 22:12:59 GMT

It may seem like lightyears ago now, but the 2020 Budget was only announced last month, with the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, giving several updates in regard to housing and property. These included new taxes for overseas property buyers, funding to remove unsafe cladding and some spending on new homes delivery and money to tackle homelessness. Interestingly, the chancellor also referenced a potential White Paper that he promised would "bring the planning system into the twenty-first century".

Obviously, Harvey Homes welcomes any review of the planning system, especially changes that could speed up the process. We have several sites in the pipeline at the moment and are very keen to get started. We are an ambitious and forward-thinking housing developer and are actively looking for new sites and opportunities across the North West region.

It is clear to us that amendments to planning policies that can help to make the process quicker would help us to complete our projects and deliver more fantastic housing to families across the North West.

We’re not the only ones who had comments and opinions on Rishi Sunak’s 2020 Budget. In this blog we will include commentary from other property developers and industry experts who have given their view on what the budget means for the wider market.

NEW HOMES AND AFFORDABLE HOMES

Alongside his comments on planning, Chancellor Rishi Sunak also used his first Budget to announce a new £12 billion multi-year extension of the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP). This is a £3 billion boost to the current programme which was first started in 2016. The funding, which is distributed by Homes England and the Greater London Authority, supports housing associations and encourages developers to build new affordable housing. Affordable housing is something that is very important across the UK and is an essential aspect of many building sites.

We have nine affordable houses (5 shared ownership with Heylo Housing and 4 intermediate rental units which will be going to Equity Housing to manage) at Swan Green in Knutsford. All but one of these have been reserved already by families keen on the fantastic location and high specification of the builds. Much of the feedback we have received about these units is that the design and quality of the homes are much better than standard affordable housing units. We believe that every family deserves a great place to live.

Commenting on the 2020 budget and the focus on affordable housing is Jeremy Raj, national head of residential property at Irwin Mitchell. He said: “It is clearly the case that the significant additional funding for affordable housing is to be welcomed and will benefit the country in a multitude of ways. Such pledges have historically proved difficult if not impossible to turn into reality and we will wait to see whether the bricks, construction workers and planning permissions also materialise over the coming years. It is to be hoped that the further announcements from the Housing Minister will back up these aspirations with practical measures that actually enable more affordable homes to be built.”

CORONAVIRUS AND NEW HOUSES

While it is to be expected that Coronavirus dominated the 2020 Budget and will impact the property market, here at Harvey Homes we are trying to stay as positive as possible. We are continuing to receive enquiries for our homes, especially from people who are looking to move to a village location in the countryside. We’re also using this time to bring positivity to families during the current Coronavirus crisis and are continuing to build connections with the local community in Knutsford.

Unfortunately, the Harvey Homes show home at Swan Green in Knutsford, Cheshire is currently closed and will be until the restrictions on movement in the UK have been lifted. However, we are able to offer a virtual tour video that allows potential buyers to feel as though they are immersed in the beautiful interior and light-filled spaces.

Also providing commentary on coronavirus and the supply of new homes across the country is Nigel Purves, chief operating officer at Wayhome. He said that he wasn’t surprised the Coronavirus dominated Rishi Sunak’s first budget but added that ”as the Chancellor said, ‘Coronavirus is not the only challenge facing the country’ and while he’s cut taxes and turned on infrastructure spending taps, it’s clear that not enough has been done for housing.”

HOUSING IN THE NORTH

According to the chancellor, “The regions have a significant contribution to make” to the UK overall’s stock of housing.

Owen Michaelson, chief executive Harworth Group, a land and property regeneration specialist in the Midlands and the north of England, says he is delighted that the Chancellor has backed further devolution away from London. He further commented that “The regions have a significant contribution to make in future-proofing our economy and improving the nation’s productivity.” This is something that we commented on at the beginning of March as we had been noticing a growing trend of southerners moving North and seeking out new places to call home.

As this trend does not set to end anytime soon, we need to ensure that there is enough high-quality housing to accommodate the Northerners already here and Southerners who are looking for a new quality of life. Only time will tell if the Chancellor makes good on his promises to planning, affordable houses and the North. Let’s hope that the Coronavirus doesn’t send us totally off track and we are all able to continue positively and productively.

A positive podcast with Show House magazine

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 22:24:32 GMT

Earlier this month, we were delighted to agree to speak to journalist Isla MacFarlane from the online industry magazine Show House about the Coronavirus crisis for their latest podcast episode. We discussed how Harvey Homes is responding to the crisis, how we are supporting our customers and what impact it will have on the wider market.

We highly recommend that you listen to the Show House Podcast but if you can’t find the time then here is a summary of what we talked about:

1. What advantages are there in being a small housebuilder in these unprecedented times?

We’re more fluid and flexible than bigger housebuilders i.e. there’s less red tape with us. This means that we have been able to respond to guidelines quickly and efficiently. Operating in this manner has always been part of our ethos because we recognise that buying a house is very often the biggest thing people do – which means they deserve to experience the highest level of customer service possible.

We’re very special in that we are a family business and therefore we always prioritise families and understand their needs. We like to think that we carry this through even to the initial conception of our houses as they have always been designed with families in mind, to foster and encourage quality time together.

2. What measures have you taken to respond to the crisis?

Initially, we made the decision to close the show home at Swan Green in Knutsford when the restrictions on movement in the UK were first brought in. We had realised that this was an action we were probably going to have to make at some point so in advance of this we organised for a company to come and film at the site and create a virtual tour round the show home .

This video is also on our social media channels and has allowed our customers to still view the show home which is great after all the hard work we put into making it. It’s been encouraging to get lots of great feedback from this.

Harvey Homes’ customer care and sales teams are still fully operational and are available to talk to interested buyers during the day and in the evening by appointment only. Everyone already has their own phones and laptops so moving into remote working was a smooth process and we didn’t encounter any slowing of service.

The power of video chat has been really apparent for us as a team and I think we’ve actually ended up having more meetings and being more efficient over Zoom than we are normally! We’ve been able to work together as a team really well and come up with some great ideas together.

Construction at the site has now halted as we are putting the safety of our staff and customers first. We’re obviously still listening to government advice on a daily basis and will be able to respond to any new guidelines quickly and efficiently.

The good news is that we’re still taking reservations and getting a good volume of enquiries. There’s a lot of negativity out there at the moment but I think that it’s a time for people to stay level-headed and calm. You’ve got the find the positives in a bad situation wherever you can.

For me, a big positive is the way we’ve come together as a country. It has been amazing sitting on my balcony the last few Thursdays and listening to the applause and appreciation for the NHS. They’re the real heroes here. The applause is something really special to hear.

3. What immediate impact have you seen on your business?

The immediate impact is obviously the temporary closure of the show home and the halt to construction on site. It’s a shame that we can’t showcase our properties as well as we would like to – especially as our open house weekend was so successful – but we need to remember that this is only temporary, and it will go back to normal.

We’ve changed focus a little bit recently in regard to our social media and marketing in that we don’t want to keep sending out sales messages to our customers, but we want to engage them and support them through this time. With this in mind, we’ve launched a competition recently that is for children and families to design their perfect lockdown home . We want to help keep people sane and happy!

4. Do you think your business will be permanently altered by the current circumstances?

It’s hard to say for sure at this point as these really are unprecedented times but it is unlikely that any business in the UK won’t be affected permanently in some way. I expect that the Coronavirus crisis will forever be built into the history of Harvey Homes but hopefully because it will be an example of when we were able to overcome adverse conditions and remain strong and focused.

In the short-term, we are obviously currently going through an ‘adaptation’ period and I’m sure that we will experience another one of these when restrictions are lifted. No one knows how long this current situation will last for, but we do know it cannot be permanent, we have to stay positive and support others who need it. We’ve got some exciting developments in the pipeline and nothing is changing in relation to them. It’s very much business as usual and we are looking forward to announcing these in the coming weeks and months.

It will probably always serve of a reminder to companies across the UK to remain focused. For Harvey Homes, this means that I’m enjoying being really focused on the site we’ve got. As an example, it means that I can really give every customer and enquiry extra attention. We had an enquiry recently from a lady who couldn’t envisage the garden space and views from a particular plot, so I went to site (following government guidelines of course) to take photos and videos to give her a much better idea. She thought it was great! This is one of the great benefits of being a small housebuilder.

Of course, we’re looking forward to getting through this stage and to prospering again in the future. We’ve got some really exciting developments and concepts coming that I’m really excited about bringing to the market.

Make sure you check out the Show House podcast interview in full .

Design the perfect lockdown home

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 21:55:58 GMT

It is now more than ever when we realise how important family and friends are to us. Coronavirus is doing its best to keep people apart, but we need to combat it by staying busy, staying positive and staying at home. We want to give you a chance to win something to look forward to - a future family day out!

All children are invited to enter our competition by designing the perfect lockdown home and submitting their designs via email by Friday, 24th April.

The winning design will win a Family Days Out Choice Voucher from BuyaGift .

Designing the homes of the future is something we take very seriously at Harvey Homes, as we know how the design of a home can shape a family’s life. When we build houses, we start by taking inspiration from how families live and interact. The new homes at our development in Knutsford are built to cater for families as they grow and develop. Maybe your perfect lockdown home can be designed around your family and the activities you have been doing during the coronavirus lockdown.

COMPETITION DETAILS

Challenge: Design the perfect lockdown home

Entries: Submit your drawing, painting or a photo of a sculpture via email: hello@harvey-homes.co.uk or Facebook Messenger to https://www.facebook.com/harveyhomesgroup

Deadline: Friday, 24th April, 6pm

TERMS & CONDITIONS

The promoter is: Harvey Homes whose registered office is at 7 Stamford Rd, Bowdon, Altrincham WA14 2JT
The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom aged upto 18 years except employees of Harvey Homes and their close relatives and anyone otherwise connected with the organisation or judging of the competition.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via https://www.harvey-homes.co.uk
Only one entry will be accepted per person. Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified.
Closing date for entry will be Friday, 24th April 6pm . After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.
No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

COMPETITION RULES

The rules of the competition and how to enter are as follows:
Write here in simplest form how you enter the competition.
Send us a copy of your picture or painting, or a photo of your sculpture via hello@harvey-homes.co.uk or Facebook Messenger to https://www.facebook.com/harveyhomesgroup
The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside of the promoter’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.
The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.
The prize is as follows: Family Days Out Choice Voucher from BuyaGift .
The prize is as stated, and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prize is not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.
The Winner will be chosen at random by an independent adjudicator or panel of judges appointed by the Promoter.
The winner will be notified by email within four days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim or collect the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner.
The promoter will notify the winner when and where the prize can be collected
The promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition will be final and no correspondence will be entered into.
By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by English law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England.
The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material, as well as their entry. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent.
Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Network. You are providing your information to Harvey Homes and not to any other party.

Harvey Homes builds steps against Coronavirus

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 22:43:09 GMT

Given the current situation in the UK with regards to coronavirus, Harvey Homes wants to take this opportunity to reassure everyone that we are making the safety and wellbeing of our customers, colleagues and their families our top priority.

This has resulted in us making the decision to close the show home at Swan Green until the restrictions on movement in the UK have been lifted. However, we are now very pleased to be able to offer a virtual tour through a newly commissioned video that allows potential buyers to feel as though they are there and be immersed in the beautiful interior and light-filled spaces.

Harvey Homes’ customer care and sales teams are still fully operational and are available to talk to interested buyers during the day (call 0161 468 2728 to speak to Tom Ratcliffe or email hello@harvey-Homes.co.uk ), and in the evening by appointment only. We urge all customers to call us without delay as the homes are still very much in demand due to their countryside location and thoughtful design.

Following government guidance, our construction teams are carrying on in order to ensure that the development progresses and for our homes to be ready for those families who have already purchased. Extra precautions are of course being taken on site to ensure the safety of our workers and site staff.

Co-Founder and Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe , said: “In these times of uncertainty, we very much appreciate the continued efforts that our customers and our colleagues are making to keep themselves and their families safe.

“It is times like this when we all realise what is really important in life; the safety and security of our loved ones, and time with family and friends. The homes that we build are always designed with families in mind so that they can enjoy being together in spaces that foster engagement and quality time.

“We have received a fantastic level of support from the local community in recent weeks and months and we hope for this to continue, and for us to be able to reciprocate it as time goes on.”

Rest assured, Harvey Homes is closely monitoring the situation and will make further changes to the operation of the site if required.

Harvey Homes shows great promise with maiden development

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 22:36:16 GMT

Cheshire-based luxury housebuilding group, Harvey Homes, has recently made great strides with its bespoke development in Knutsford, with house sales starting to surge and the show home now open to the public. The launch weekend of the show home (7th-8th March) proved to be enormously successful, with lots of interested house-hunters visiting and commenting on the quality of the craftsmanship of the properties.

Sales are also looking positive as four houses have exchanged already, with the first buyer moving in before Christmas. The majority of the affordable housing units at the site in Lower Peover are now reserved, with 17 open market houses still available to purchase, although several of these have already been reserved.

Cheshire-based interior design company, Marie Charnley interiors, designed the four-bedroom detached house to show off its many features, including the vaulted ceilings of the bedrooms, Juliette Balconies and spacious living areas.

Co-Founder and Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe , said: “Opening our first show home at Swan Green is a momentous occasion for everyone involved in the development. From the first architects drawing we knew that it was set to be a really special collection of homes and seeing it in ‘real life’ just confirms this.

“We’ve done our research and have found that housing developments that can offer a traditional English lifestyle with nearby facilities are hugely in demand. When you consider the relatively short supply of new property stock across the UK, we feel like we’ve got the perfect combination at Swan Green.

“The volume of visitors that we had during our first show home weekend was fantastic and just demonstrates that we are ticking all the boxes for potential buyers.”

Swan Green is Harvey Homes’ first development and is paving the way for many more exciting projects across the North West region. Their ethos is to build homes that offer modern comforts and contemporary living within walking distance of traditional village settings.

Ben Young , the first buyer to move into one of the properties at Swan Green commented that: “We were very happy when we came across the Swan Green development and the house that was being built seemed to be perfect for us!

“We moved from Manchester City Centre and it was a very conscious decision to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Country living, local pubs, fresh air and walks with the dog are what we are now looking forward to! Although saying that, the village has good train and road links to Manchester, so it won’t be difficult to get back to city life either.

“It really is a lovely family home and we are so looking forward to creating many happy memories there.”

Modern technology, thoughtful touches and helpful storage solutions have been combined in all of the homes at Swan Green to make life easier and more comfortable. The 30 homes at Swan Green range from two-bedroom mews and semi-detached homes to four and five-bedroom detached houses.

There are six different styles of property available at Harvey Homes’ sought-after new development. The architecture – by Altrincham based practice Calderpeel – of all the homes incorporates traditional design features that complement the picturesque rural village location, such as Flemish Bond brickwork, steep pitched gables and Juliet balconies.

Harvey Homes is a luxury housebuilding group that is committed to creating homes that are able to nurture families as they grow and develop. Harvey Homes uses innovative and sustainable building techniques to ensure that the quality of their homes is second-to-none.

The houses at Swan Green are already selling fast, with the March opening times of the show home as follows:

- Saturday: 10am - 4pm

- Sunday: 11am – 4pm

- Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 10am - 4pm

- Other times are available, but are by appointment only

- Location: Swan Green, Middlewich Road, Lower Peover, WA16 9QW

Southerners are seeking out the north

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 22:27:42 GMT

SOUTHERNERS ARE SEEKING OUT THE NORTH

For years there has been a divide between the North and the South. And no, we’re not talking about Game of Thrones! The people of the UK are regularly getting into heated debates about the merits of Gravy VS Quinoa, Dinner VS Tea and of course when it comes to property, the difference between a four-bedroom house VS a studio apartment in London city centre.

However, the rift between the North and South of the UK seems to be dwindling, as an increasing number of southerners are now flocking to the North. It seems as though the rugged countryside, friendly atmosphere and the exceptional pies (don’t forget the pies) are slowly but surely drawing people in.

WHAT DOES THE DATA SAY?

Data published by the Countrywide network of estate and lettings agents at the end of 2019 shows that, while in 2009 only 1% of people leaving London bought or rented homes in the north, in 2019 that figure reached 13%.

Even more recently, in January 2020, Hamptons International said strained housing affordability in southern England resulted in more people from London moving to the Midlands and the North of England. According to Money Expert , the data estimates that in 2019, one in seven of those moving out of London to elsewhere in Britain bought homes in the North of England, including the North West, the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber. This is more than 50% higher than the number of Londoners moving up north than in 2016, and three times as many compared to 2009.

The age at which people are deciding to flee the UK’s increasingly expensive capital city is also decreasing. The average age of people leaving London is now 39 – the lowest average age ever recorded, and down from 47 a decade ago. Interestingly, a total of 73,000 homes outside the capital were bought by Londoners in 2019.

The figures are a sure indication of Britain’s shifting human population. This is something that could be exacerbated further due to projects like the £100bn HS2 high-speed rail line which has now been green-lit . The new high-speed rail line is expected to drastically cut travel times from London to northern cities.

WHY MANCHESTER?

With a fantastic shopping scene, renowned nightlife, massive suite of restaurants and an ever-increasing list of nearby leisure attractions, it is easy to understand why Manchester has been steadily growing in popularity for some years now. The creation of Media City has also had a sizeable impact on the popularity of the area, with many young media-types now seeking opportunities in the Northern city.

Further to this, the countryside on the doorstep and the eclectic mix of villages and towns nearby – like Knutsford, Poynton, Alderley Edge and Wilmslow – are all unavoidable enticements. Many of these suburbs have fantastic transport links into Manchester, making them an ideal place for people to set down roots.

Indeed, it appears as though these often wealthy and always welcoming towns are becoming even more of a lure for southerners looking for a place to call home. And who can blame them? Knutsford, for example, and its surrounding charming villages, has character, soul and those all-important amenities as well.

What more could a Southerner want?!

Lower Peover School competition winners

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 22:20:00 GMT

W E HAVE A WINNER!

As a boutique property developer, we know that when we start building, we aren’t just creating homes, we’re creating communities as well. This is why we take such care when choosing our sites – we want to make sure that they will be able to support the families living in our homes for many years, providing them with nearby amenities and a supportive network.

Working with the communities local to each site is an important part of this, which is why when we started developing Swan Green in Lower Peover, Knutsford, we also made sure we made friends with local businesses and organisations as well. This is how our relationship with Lower Peover C.E Primary School came about. The school is a fantastic asset of the village as it was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in its latest inspection and is a well-established and thriving educational setting for children aged 4-11.

We recently invited the 207 pupils at the school to enter a competition and draw their best predictions for the homes of the future. Two classes also got the opportunity to come and visit Swan Green so they could better understand the benefits of different building materials and processes. We had a fantastic day with the students and loved the fun and excitement that they brought with them.

We recently judged the competition – a tough call given the excellent level of entries – and our Founder Tom Harvey Ratcliffe presented the winners from each year group with their prizes.

Reception: Grace

Year 1: Oisin

Year 2: Poppie

Year 3: India

Year 4: Poppy

Year 5: Grace

Year 6: Christian

Tom commented: “Well done to all the winners and thank you to all the students for putting so much effort into their drawings. We think you’ve all got the potential to be architects in the future!” Our work with Lower Peover C.E Primary School doesn’t stop here however, as our team has recently been helping the school to overhaul their garden area and we are looking forward to Spring when we can see the results of our hard work.

First resident moves into Swan Green

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 19:07:58 GMT

Homebuyer Ben Young has become the first person to move into one of the brand-new properties at Swan Green in Lower Peover, Knutsford, having purchased a four-bedroom house from Harvey Homes.

Co-Founder and Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Ratcliffe , said: “Watching the houses at Swan Green develop from architectural drawings into real homes has been amazing to see. They have all been designed with families in mind, so I’m especially pleased that we could help Ben and his family complete on one of the houses in time for Christmas and the New Year.” Ben Young bought the home in Knutsford as a new sanctuary for himself, his partner and his two children.

Speaking about the purchase, he said: “We have been looking for a house in the village of Lower Peover for some time as we feel like it is a really nice place that will give us the country lifestyle we are looking for. However, not many houses come up for sale in Lower Peover – probably because it is so nice! We were very happy when we came across the Swan Green development and the house that was being built seemed to be perfect for us!

Election results: what it means for UK property

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 22:05:52 GMT

The results are in and the UK has voted decisively to not only keep the Conservatives in power but to give them a significant majority in the House of Commons.

This is likely to mean an end to the uncertainty around Brexit, with the country looking set to leave the European Union in January 2020. This uncertainty has been one of the major obstacles to growth and stability in the property market in recent years so we are hopeful that we will start to see the market develop in the coming years.

Leaving political affiliations at the door, the election results mean that we finally have a sense of certainty which will help us to move forward as a nation and leave behind the political rollercoaster of the past few years. The surge in the value of the pound, which jumped to a three-and-a-half high against the euro in the hours that followed the initial election predictions demonstrates that confidence in the UK is already returning.

Uncertainty and doubt are two of the property market’s biggest nemeses so we will not be sorry to see them go. Political stalemate has made people nervous about engaging in the UK property market, so some consistent market stimulation is just what we need. Having a 5-year administration will hopefully create an untold amount of confidence and bring back the UK public’s aspiration to buy their own homes.

Prior to the election, the Conservative Party stated that: ‘One of the biggest divides in our society is between those who can and cannot afford their own home. The Conservative Party is determined to get Brexit done, so we can get on with levelling up opportunities across England and ensure that we have a thriving property-owning democracy.’

A thriving property-owning democracy is surely what everyone wants and here at Harvey Homes, we know that property in the North of England is increasingly sought-after. Areas that can offer traditional lifestyles and nearby amenities have been consistently popular over the past few years and this trend is set to continue.

Conservative Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick, who re-won his Newark constituency with a resounding 63% of the votes, said before the election: “As Conservatives we know that owning a home is not just about the four walls around you, it’s about investing in your family, saving for the future and putting down roots in a community. We are on the side of hard-working people who want to play their part in our property-owning democracy.”

The importance of community and the creation of long-lasting homes that families can grow in and enjoy is the cornerstone of everything that we create at Harvey Homes. We carefully choose the locations for our homes to ensure that the future occupants will be surrounded by community groups and amenities, and we design our homes thoughtfully to ensure they will stand the test of time.

In general, the new build sector has actually bucked the trend in the market in recent years and has stayed resilient in the face of Brexit, so the hope is that this will remain and people will continue to see the value in buying quality new-build homes that are built to last.

Now that the election is over, the hard work starts for the Conservatives to make good on their pledges to help both homeowners and young people hoping to buy. The Party’s main housing pledge was to ‘help buyers and make mortgages more affordable’. Let’s hope that this pledge is realised and that an increasing number of people are able to take their first step, or their next step up the property ladder.

At Harvey Homes, we can only hope that the apprehension to buy caused by political uncertainty will wane, the property market will become more buoyant and the sector receives the boost we have all been waiting for.

Lets go nutty for Knutsford

Sat, 07 Dec 2019 22:12:55 GMT

Having lived in Cheshire for many years we have always been aware of the beauty in the area and the quality of life that the region grants to its residents.

The decision to develop the Swan Green site in Knutsford was born out of a desire to allow more families to enjoy the benefits of living in this beautiful town. Our homes have been designed so that families will able to grow together, while the local amenities and community spirit will mean they will flourish.

It turns out that we’re not the only ones who have been coveting a life in Knutsford. A recent report from property expert Savills shows that our not-so-well-kept secret is out – Knutsford is the place to be!

The publication – issued on 22nd November 2019 – states that there has been a surge in confidence in Knutsford property, with a “28% increase in the number of buyers registering with Savills across Cheshire.” It appears as though the main demand is coming from families and the picturesque town also is understandably popular with those wanting to relocate from other areas as well.

According to the Savills report, in previous years, it was the villages of Ollerton and Over Peover that were most in demand but over the last year, the WA16 9 postcode has materialised as the superior place du jour. House purchases have particularly increased in the southern villages of Allostock and Lower Peover – exactly where our Swan Green development is.

Lower Peover is a beautiful village with a fantastic primary school, amenities and community feel – don’t get us started on the cuteness that is the ‘Tree of Imagination’ – and it’s no surprise that others have noticed its desirability as well.

In a firm display of its community spirit, the village has recently been awarded the ‘ Best Kept Village Award 2019 ’ by Cheshire Community Action. The award criteria included the overall appearance of the village such as its school grounds, pub fronts, churchyard and local businesses. It goes without saying that it’s the hard work and dedication of the villagers themselves that ensures the hamlet remains a picturesque place to live.

In terms of desirability, the village of Lower Peover really does have it all. It’s a place to breathe and enjoy the countryside while at the same time being a perfect commuting distance to Manchester and other nearby bustling hubs.

However, we believe that it is the very soul of the village, the community feel of the place and the wholesomeness of the area that is what is driving people to want to live there. These days, families are increasingly looking for a place to belong and Lower Peover is able to offer that sense of security and belonging in spades.

We can’t wait until our new homes allow many more families to enjoy the area and become part of this wonderful place.

Students predict future of housebuilding with Havey Homes

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 18:44:34 GMT

Bespoke housebuilder Harvey Homes has challenged the 207 pupils from Lower Peover C.E Primary School to enter a competition and draw their best predictions for the homes of the future.

Two classes from the school also recently got the opportunity to visit Harvey Homes’ new site in Lower Peove r for inspiration and to see first-hand the processes involved in building luxury homes from the foundations up. The students have until 22nd November to submit their responses and have been asked to consider what possible building materials could be used for their futuristic homes and how spaces could be used for different purposes.

Harvey Homes Group is currently constructing 30 high-quality homes in Swan Green, Lower Peover on Middlewich Road . Co-Founder and Director of Harvey Homes, Tom Harvey Ratcliffe , said: “One of the major advantages of the Swan Green development for future residents is the proximity to the traditional village of Lower Peover, with all its amenities and charm. We have designed the homes so that they will complement the area while also providing a sustainable place in which local families can live for many years to come.

“As such, we wanted to ensure that we engage with the local community as much as possible during the build and involve them in the process. It was fantastic to see the local children enjoying their visit to the site and learning about the different building techniques. We can’t wait to see their ideas for the ‘homes of the future’ – maybe one of their drawings will inspire our future designs!”

The headteacher at Lower Peover C.E Primary School, Mrs Sharon Dean, said: “Collaborating with local businesses is a great way to give our students new opportunities and insights into different industries. The site visit that many of our pupils enjoyed gave them a real understanding of how houses are built and has inspired them to think about how the design of a home can shape a family’s life.” Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, Lower Peover C.E Primary School, was founded in 1710 and is a well-established and thriving educational setting for children aged 4-11.

Housing development takes shape following £7M funding package

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 18:33:34 GMT

ESTABLISHED specialist lender Together has agreed a £7million funding facility for a luxury family-orientated homes development in the North West.

Bespoke housebuilder Harvey Homes Group is currently constructing 30 high-quality homes in Swan Green, Lower Peover, near Knutsford, Cheshire.

Its funding partner Together - which celebrates its 45th anniversary this year - has provided a £7million finance package for the major project of four and five bedroom detached houses, two bedroom mews and semi-detached homes. The development has been valued at £15million once complete.

The first houses, which are available for between £735,000 and £855,000, were recently released for sale and have received a significant amount of interest so far.

Ian Pickering, development funding lending director at Together, said: “This is a magnificent scheme with a choice of six styles of architect-designed homes in one of Cheshire’s most prestigious neighbourhoods and it’s great to see it starting to take shape.

“We agreed the funding because we were really impressed with the vision and expertise of Harvey Homes’ directors and excited about the potential for development. We saw Harvey Homes as an ideal investment partnership and were more than happy to provide the financial support they were looking for.”

The luxury housebuilding group was formed last year by father and son Nick and Tom Harvey-Ratcliffe, with fellow director Mike Kennedy subsequently joining the team. However, despite Nick’s impressive 30-year experience in the property industry – he previously led Sainsbury’s store development programme in Northern England and Wales – they struggled to find the fast funding that they needed from mainstream banks to start the project.

Together agreed the funding package after visiting the four-acre site and assessing Harvey Homes’ detailed plans for the luxury development, which includes nine affordable homes. Construction is now well underway, with the development’s show home set to open later this year.

Tom Harvey-Ratcliffe said: “As a bespoke property business we knew that we had found a hidden gem at Swan Green. We had a strong plan for the development, we already owned the land and we have great experience within our management team, many whom have been working with established housebuilders and property companies in the North West for many years.

“However, the banks we originally approached were nervous to lend to us because our Board had limited experience in residential property, which is one of the reasons we brought Mike Kennedy onto the team – his extensive residential experience is fantastic. He then introduced us to the team at Together and, as North West property experts themselves, they were well aware of Mike’s credentials and the housebuilding expertise he brought to the group.

“It’s fantastic that Together has agreed to support us. Aside from the financial aspect, it’s particularly beneficial to have a lender on board which really understands the needs of developers like us and is willing to help turn our exciting vision into a reality. We’re looking forward to developing our burgeoning relationship by undertaking many more projects with them.”

Brexit and the North West property market

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 17:13:40 GMT

The most controversial word on everyone’s lips at the moment has to be Brexit. It has dominated our news feeds for more than three years, it causes arguments between friends, fills our social media feeds and of course is a factor to consider for many people when making business or life decisions.

Whether you’re a steadfast Remainer or passionate Brexiteer, you can’t deny that the ambiguity about the UK’s future relationship with the EU is enough to cause anxiety about Britain’s property market.

But how has it specifically affected the Northern property market? We may be removed from the bubble of London, but the future of our bricks and mortar can still be determined by the goings-on in the capital.

The strength of the North West property market

Obviously, Harvey Homes is pretty confident about strength of the market ‘up north’ – otherwise we wouldn’t have started our amazing project in Lower Peover or be so excited about the other developments we have coming up in the region.

But why are we so optimistic? Well, we’ve done our research and have found that the evidence is showing areas that can offer a traditional English lifestyle with nearby facilities like post offices are remaining resilient to Brexit.

Further to this, according to the UK House Price Index (HPI) which was published by the ONS in June 2019, the property market in the North West is the second strongest in the country, with house prices increasing 2.6% in the year to April 2019.

Sam Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer of HouseSimple has stated that: “The strength of regional property markets in the north, buoyed by strong first-time buyer and investor numbers, is an encouraging sign that the performance of the UK’s housing market is not determined by what’s happening within the M25.”

Confident words indeed!

The strength of the industry is a very positive thing as it demonstrates that the region is able to maintain its property market, even in the face of potential adversity. It also shows that, now more than ever, it is important to purchase a house that is built to last and is in a good position so that it will retain its value.

The strength of new build property

Another reason we are so confident in our homes is that, generally speaking, new property stock across the UK remains in short supply. This has allowed the new build property market to buck the Brexit trend and stay strong due to high-demand.

Stewart Baseley, the executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation, has said: “Unlike the wider housing market, where transactions have dropped considerably from the historical norm, the new-build market has remained relatively strong in recent months.”

A factor in this might be that people commonly buy new build properties for long-term reasons rather than for short-term gains. The design of all Harvey Homes properties reflects this as they are built to cater for families as they grow and develop. For example, rooms that may be used as playrooms at the beginning can easily be transformed into private studies or sumptuous dining rooms in the future. Buying homes that will be able to accommodate your household for many years to come is a perfect way of securing stability – both for your finances and your family.

The long-term buying plan of new-build buyers also serves them well as its likely that even if they do encounter a slight drop in house prices in the short-term, the chances are that by the time they sell, the market will have most likely have corrected itself.

Summary

It is understandable that the uncertainty of Brexit has caused people to worry about the UK’s property market and has stalled their buying plans, but we think that if people buy smart then they will have no reason for concern.

New build houses in the North West that have strong local amenities and the ability to be flexible in meeting a family’s changing needs seem to be the best bet by far!

Are you interested in finding one of these marvellous houses for yourself? Check out our homes in Cheshire and find out how you can beat Brexit.

harvey-homes

THE PARADE | AVAILABILITY

Commercial Units: 32/34, 36, 40

SWAN GREEN | AVAILABILITY

4 Oak Tree Lane, Lower Peover.

£975,000

TOWERS ROAD

This spacious site in Poynton, Cheshire features stunning countryside views to the east whilst benefiting from extensive west-facing gardens to capture the afternoon and evening sun. ﻿

SAINSBURY'S URMSTON

A commercial retail site acquired in competition with Tesco after Trafford MBC preferred Sainsbury’s who later acquired the freehold interest.

SAINSBURY'S COLNE

A freehold site acquired off market.

CASTLEFIELD BASIN

Nicholas Ratcliffe was one of the first investors to see the massive potential in Castlefield Basin and the former Whatfingers Managers House.

NORWICH UNION HOUSE

Purchased from Norwich Union in the late 1990s, with the ground floor and basement pre-let to Bask Taverns (All Bar One). The top floor flat was refurbished into a penthouse office and roof terrace while all upper floors were renovated.

TESCO CENTENARY WAY

A 40,000sq. ft development of non-food retail, on land acquired from BT Property by Tesco, with 40,000 sq ft granted for retail space.

KELLOGGS WAREHOUSE

A 10-year assignment to reduce Kellogg's warehouses from 22 to just 3, acquiring 12 acres from Trafford Park Estates.

BOLTON RETAIL PARK

A 89,000 Sqft Sainsburys food store and petrol filling station, including 115,000 Sqft of non food retail.

KELLOGGS BUILDING

A 9-acre site that became the Kellogg’s European office for 28 years, fronting Talbot Road and Sir Matt Busby Way.

THE HUBB

The HUBB at Monton Green is envisaged to be a mixed-use development, comprising retail, office and residential units. This exciting project is currently being conceptualised to ensure that it becomes a valuable asset to the local area.

THE PARADE

This prime leisure and retail opportunity is a collection of five properties, each featuring retail/hospitality units on the ground floors and residential apartments on the upper floors.

SWAN GREEN

Swan Green is a hidden gem of 30 bespoke luxury homes in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.

How can overseas investors unlock opportunities in UK property?

If you're overseas and are considering investment in UK property, this guide from Harvey Homes aims to shed light on the key factors driving this trend and provide insights to help you navigate this promising market.

The Appeal of UK Property

Key Considerations for Overseas Investors

UK Register of Overseas Entities

Emerging Trends in Overseas Investment

Transforming property with smart trends and technologies

In this blog, we'll explore the future of smart homes, examining the trends and technologies that are reshaping the way we live and transforming the real estate industry.

Intelligent Connectivity

Five Smart Home Trends Shaping Real Estate

Impact on Real Estate Values

Challenges and Considerations

Looking Ahead: The Future of Smart Homes in Real Estate

What is a property investment plan?

All aspirations in life need to start with a plan and property investment is no different. Many people decide that property investment is going to be part of their wider financial strategy and the most successful investors have a property investment business plan in place from the start.

So, what is a property investment plan? In this blog, we’ll explore what one is, why you need one and the key components that are needed to create one.

What is a property investment business plan and why is it useful?

How do you create a property investment plan?

Key features of a property investment business plan

Property investment strategy

Property developer storms into ice rink

Cheshire-headquartered property developer The Ratcliffe Property Group has partnered with Manchester Storm to design and build a new spectator box at Altrincham Ice Rink.

Harvey Homes joins forces with local fire service

Cheshire-headquartered property developer Harvey Homes joined forces with the Poynton Fire Services by providing them with a realistic setting for a fire training drill. ﻿

10 factors to consider when flipping property

Flipping property is a trend that has gained real momentum in recent years. If you turn on the TV, you will likely find a property programme to watch where professionals or amateurs are striving to make some fast cash from a renovation.

What is ‘property flipping’?

1. Better budgeting

2. Choose wisely

3. Follow the trends

4. Time is Money

5. Use a trusted team

6. Don’t underestimate it

7. Diversify your investments

8. Risk assessment

9. What is your exit strategy?

10. Is it the right investment for you?

What is a property valuation?

As experts in property, the team at Harvey Homes is very knowledgeable about what a property valuation is, and we want to share this knowledge with you.

How is a property valued?

How can you get a property valuation?

How can you increase your property valuation?

Why should you buy a new build home?

To some people, the reasons you should buy a new build home are clear – less hassle, more efficiency, increased design choices, tighter warranties – but there are other less obvious reasons.

1. Avoid Hidden Costs.

2. Energy-saving features

3. Building quality

4. Speedier moving

5. Perfect no matter your situation

6. Design choices

This spacious site in Poynton, Cheshire features stunning countryside views to the east whilst benefiting from extensive west-facing gardens to capture the afternoon and evening sun.

Cheshire-headquartered property developer Harvey Homes joined forces with the Poynton Fire Services by providing them with a realistic setting for a fire training drill.