At Home for the Christmas holidays

Read the latest issue of our Newsletter for what we expect from the property market in 2025.

Plus the latest New Homes, upcoming Stamp Duty changes, and Judy and Patricia’s highlights from their ten years of ownership.

 

Sign up below to receive the next issue direct to your inbox.

At Home with Monks is our regular Newsletter, available to pick up in our offices or via email direct to your inbox.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Sell your home  –  Property search

As we move into 2025, we would like to remind all our clients about the forthcoming changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT or Stamp Duty).

Our team will be happy answer any questions you may have about the new amounts and how this affects your property purchase.  This will impact everyone planning to move, not just first-time buyers.

 

On all property purchases completed after 31^st March 2025, the temporary thresholds on Stamp Duty implemented in September 2022 will come to an end.  These are the key changes:

 

• For all movers, the current zero rate threshold is lowering from £250,000 to £125,000.
  • All purchases up to £125,000 will continue to pay 0% SDLT.
  • Stamp Duty of 2% will be payable on purchases between £125,001 to £250,000.  Buyers will pay up to £2,500 more.

• For First Time Buyers, the current zero rate threshold is lowering from £425,000 to £300,000.
  • All First purchases up to £300,000 will continue to pay 0% SDLT.
  • Stamp Duty of 5% will be payable on First Time purchases between £300,001 to £500,000.  First Time Buyers will pay 5p more for every £1 over £300,000, up to £500,000.  For example, a property of £350,000 will pay £2,500 in SDLT.
  • The maximum purchase price on which First-Time Buyers can claim relief is lowering from £625,000 to the previous level of £500,000.

• For Second Home Buyers, a new rate of 7% will be introduced on properties between £125,001 to £250,000.  Second Home buyers will pay up to £8,750 more.

 

Can I avoid Stamp Duty increases in 2025?

Property purchases must be completed before 1st April 2025 to avoid these changes.  With a timescale of 12-16 weeks for conveyancing, we advise all clients who have not yet agreed a sale to budget for the increased amounts.

 

What is not changing?

At the upper end of the Stamp Duty table, on properties above £250,000, there are no changes to the SDLT rates:

• £250,001 to £925,000, the rate remains at 5% (10% for Second Homes)
• £925,001 to £1.5 million, the rate remains at 10% (15% for Second Homes)
• Over £1.5 million, the rate remains at 12% (17% for Second Homes).

 

Please speak to our agents about the new amounts and how this affects your property purchase.

Read next:  New homes  –  Selling your home  –  What makes us, us?

Ten years on from taking on the ownership of Monks Estate and Lettings Agents, Directors Judy Bourne and Patricia Baila have narrowed down their ten biggest achievements and most memorable moments:

 

1. Relocating to new brighter offices in Shrewsbury just a few doors down from our old home – then expanding into the neighbouring office and knocking through to create an inviting reception area and double the window space.
2. Introducing our iconic ‘crown’ logo as part of our successful rebranding initiative, which is now recognised across Shropshire.
3. Growing our team across three offices with excellent staff retention.  We are proud to say our longest serving team member has been with Monks for 23 years!
4. Encouraging all of our staff to become members of our professional body PropertyMark,  supporting their recognised MARLA and MNAEA qualifications covering sales and lettings, and ensuring our business is ready for regulation and our team has up-to-date knowledgeable of their respective fields.
5. Promoting our staff from within, combined with fostering a female-empowered and parent-positive workplace so our staff can progress their careers at all stages of their lives.
6. Launching the Shropshire New Homes Exhibition (Judy’s special baby) for three very successful years – taking a break during the pandemic – watch this space for a re-launch!
7. Rising from the ashes in Oswestry after our newly-opened office suffered a fire. After moving twice in one year, we are delighted to say we are happy and settled in our new home on Church Street.
8. Supporting and becoming one of the main sponsors of the hugely success Shropshire Festivals calendar, of the award-winning Shropshire Oktoberfest and the Shrewsbury Food Festival.
9. Getting behind the next generation as the first local estate agent to join the new specific Estate Agency apprenticeship programme.  Our first apprentice joined us in September and our second starts in our Oswestry office in January.
10. And finally… Appreciating our position as we continue to feel excited for the future with new ideas and plans for bringing people and property together over the next ten years!

Read next:  New homes  –  Selling your home  –  What makes us, us?

Positive comments from our clients validate our reputation as a hard-working, ethical and knowledgable local estate agent.

 

Let these recent reviews inspire your confidence in choosing Monks to sell or let your property.

Read next:  New homes  –  Selling your home  –  What makes us, us?

For family-friendly dream homes, ask Monks about the New Home developments in your area.

Monks are Shropshire’s experts in new build homes.  We work with many leading companies including Cornovii Homes, Kendrick Homes and Shrewsbury Homes, as well as smaller site developers.

From dream kitchens and spacious sitting rooms, perfect for playing with the kids and entertaining friends…  to eco-friendly and bill-busting homes with solar panels, heat source pumps and electric vehicle chargers as standard…  whatever your dream home looks like, Monks will help you find it.

  Visit our Facebook page for events happening near you.

Buying a brand new home off plan is such an exciting and fulfilling experience.  Contact your local office in Shrewsbury, Oswestry or Wem or email welcome@monks.co.uk.

Read next:  New homes  –  Selling your home  –  What makes us, us?

There is something very relaxing about canal boats. It’s a romantic lifestyle with a slower pace…

 

Read the latest issue of our Newsletter where we share how we are bringing people and property together with our sponsorship and fundraising programme.  Also our staff achievements, and the latest new homes and incentive schemes available.

 

At Home with Monks is our regular E-Newsletter, sent direct to your inbox.  Sign up below to receive the next issue.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Sell your home  –  Property search

Bringing people and property together is what we do best, and there is no better way than joining forces with the best events in Shropshire.

From cooking with top chefs and admiring roof terrace gardens, to secret suppers and launching our own beer at the Shropshire Oktober fest (well, that last one’s not strictly true…), Team Monks are first to join in with the fun at the many events taking place in and around Shrewsbury.

Our signature flags were out in force at the Shropshire Oktoberfest recently, as we took on sponsorship of the toilets – or the to!lets as we like to call them.  Believe us when we say, our sponsorship makes Monks more and more popular with beer-drinkers as the night goes on!!

Charity fundraising is another element of our sponsorship programme, working with local causes and charities.  In October, our financial support of the Shrewsbury Secret Supper will raise funds for Self Help Africa, a Shrewsbury-based charity.  Earlier in 2024, Monks got behind Greg Wilshaw as he completed two marathons in two weeks to raise funds for Severn Hospice and Hospice UK.

We have a strong friendship with Shropshire Festivals who are changing the game in this area with their incredibly well-organised events that attract businesses and ticket-buyers from all of the county and beyond.  Showcasing the best of Shrewsbury means more people fall for our beloved town and the lifestyle it offers.

Monks are perfectly poised to bring people and property together.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  – Careers at Monks

Ethan Lee-Birch is a property professional with a Master Plan.

 

Now a qualified Member of the National Association of Estate Agents (MNAEA), Ethan has taken the next step in what promises to be an impressive career in property.

Monks are advocates of professional qualifications in both sales and lettings departments.  Staff are encouraged to embrace the NAEA and Association of Residential Lettings Agents (MARLA) qualifications which demonstrate the company and the individual’s knowledge and industry expertise.  Members must complete training and pass relevant exams, commit to continuous learning, and adhere to the association’s code of conduct.

Born and raised in Oswestry, Ethan is deeply connected to the area and has ambitious plans.  His natural people skills have made him a standout professional in Oswestry’s busy property market.  He thrives on interacting with clients and brings fresh energy and positivity to the Monks office.

Modern estate agency relies on excellent images and Ethan enjoys photographing homes.  He is appreciative of the investment Monks has made in cutting-edge technology: “Tools like the Giraffe 360° camera mean we can capture the essence of a property and share it smartly with potential buyers”.

Ethan is mindful of the age distribution of his clients in Oswestry.  He understands the need to balance fresh, dynamic communications with the expectations of more traditional buyers.

He recalls a recent sale he handled for a more mature couple.  Despite the disappointment of multiple sales falling through over a prolonged period, coupled with ill health, they remained positive and “were an absolute pleasure to work with”.  Ethan’s ability to connect with his clients, keeping things in perspective and maintaining open communication, ensured the sale was finally successful.

Ethan’s personal life reflects his professional aspirations. He has hands-on experience with renovations and plans to buy a fixer-upper for himself and his fiancée Chloe, investing his time and effort into transforming the property and eventually starting a rental portfolio. With his daily work in lettings and sales, Ethan has valuable insight from both a buyer’s and landlord’s perspective.

Monks Estate and Letting Agents in Oswestry are proud to have Ethan Lee-Birch on their team.  Located on Church Street, Ethan is always ready to assist clients, whether they are buying, selling, or letting their property, and can be reached at 01691 674 567.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Welcome to Oswestry  –  Property search

Monks have once again proven they are Oswestry’s leading estate and letting agent.

According to data on Rightmove, Monks is the Number 1 agent in the SY11 area across three categories – new instructions, sales agreed, and available stock.

 

Monks were recognised as the Number 1 agent for sales agreed, successfully selling more homes than any other local agent in August 2024.  In fact, more homeowners chose Monks to sell their property than any other local agent year-to-date!  This achievement underscores our ability to not only attract sellers but to close deals efficiently and effectively.

 

Our dominance on Rightmove is not just about numbers; it’s about the quality of service we provide. Our success is driven by excellent customer experiences and a strong reputation for integrity, professionalism and quality service. Clients choose Monks because they know they can trust us to handle their property with the utmost care and professionalism.

 

Online portals like Rightmove are vital tools when selling property today.  The team at Monks understands the power of these platforms, using them alongside our personal approach to maximise exposure for every property we list.

 

Monks offer world-wide advertising on other prominent portals such as Zoopla, OnTheMarket, and Prime Location. Properties are listed here on our own website, www.monks.co.uk, and on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to further enhance their marketing reach.

 

At Monks, we understand that your home is one of your most valuable assets. Choosing an estate agent is a significant decision, and with Monks you can be assured that you have made the right choice.

 

Data from 1.1.24 – 30.8.24, Rightmove.

 

Read next:  Sell with Monks  –  Why choose us  –  The Selling process

We are delighted to introduce Jaynell Corner, our first Apprentice Estate and Letting Agent.

Monks is the first Estate Agent in Shropshire to take on an apprentice through the County Training Programme.  Based in our Shrewsbury office, 19 year old Jaynell applied for the position last June and stood out from all the applications we received.

A former student at Oswestry School, Jaynell went on to study Psychology, Criminology and Business at Ludlow College – subjects which will come in very useful for understanding client motivations and buying signals!

Jaynell impressed us with her maturity and positive attitude. She brings valuable experience to the role coming from a family of property entrepreneurs.

“Meeting so many new people has been the highlight so far, everything is so busy, and interesting!” said Jaynell about her first few days in the role.

County Training is one of the largest providers of training in Shropshire, offering a vast range of vocational courses and qualifications to school and college leavers who are looking to develop their skills and experience ready for employment.

Visit our careers page if you are interested in working at Monks.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Welcome to Oswestry  –  Property search

We are always proud to grow the team from within – and as our Oswestry branch goes from strength to strength we are delighted to announce the promotion of Beth Griffiths to Branch Manager/Valuer.

Beth is a qualified Member of the National Association of Estate Agents and with over 8 years experience in agency has sound knowledge of the local property market and values.

Beth has an incredible relationship with her clients and continuously receives stellar reviews on her levels of customer service.

To contact Beth, call 01691 674 567 or email beth.griffiths@monks.co.uk

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Welcome to Oswestry  –  Property search

Read the latest issue of our Newsletter for our insight into what’s driving the market forward this Autumn.

Plus, how Monks are prepared for a busy season with an exceptional record of recent sales success, ongoing staff recruitment and training, and a fresh new office make-over.

Sign up below to receive the next issue direct to your inbox.

At Home with Monks is our regular Newsletter, available to pick up in our offices or via email direct to your inbox.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Sell your home  –  Property search

Co-owner and Director of Monks Estate and Lettings Agency, Judy Bourne has reinforced her commitment to the Oswestry community by becoming a Director of Oswestry BID (Business Improvement District).

 

The Oswestry BID is an independent organisation working for the collective benefit of businesses in the town centre and local industrial estates.  They provide a clear, strong voice speaking on behalf of local businesses to help win funding in key areas.  Together, they have the network and experience to deliver the projects that grow out of this.

Judy is passionate about making Oswestry a successful place to live and work.  As an established business woman and much-like local personality, Judy brings honed leadership skills and a wealth of experience to the BID team.

 

“As a business owner, employer and supporter of the town, I am excited to be involved in BID and the delivery of the Second Term plans. 

Oswestry has a strong sense of community and a hard-working, diverse mix of businesses who really pull together. 

I am proud to be part of the Oswestry BID directorship who are committed to making this town the best place for businesses to thrive and for residents to live safely and happily.”

 

Judy and the team at Monks play a vital role in this network with their open lines of communication to the local community.  As the leading local estate agent in Oswestry, Monks talk directly to the residents living in and moving into the town.

With their prominent offices on Church Street, the Monks team are a familiar sight around Oswestry.  Monks employ local staff with expert knowledge of the property market and of local life in Oswestry.  Playing an active role in the community and its future success is at the heart of Monks’ ethos.

Oswestry BID is now in its second term and continues to build on its vision for Oswestry:  to be recognised regionally & nationally as a great place to live, work, shop, relax and be entertained; and to be a national destination of choice for business investment and a high performing centre for business growth.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Welcome to Oswestry  –  Property search

Claire Williams OBE, former deputy team principal of the Williams Formula One racing team, gave an inspirational talk that we are taking back to the pits with us.

We are now brimming with fabulous new ideas, but most importantly, these conferences ensure the team stays up to date with pending changes to legislation.

Whether you are selling or renting, Monks are your friendly PropertyMark-protected agent 💚

Read next:  Patricia’s vision  –  An empowered workplace  –  Careers

Its our favourite time of the year!

 

Follow this link to our latest Newsletter including an interview with Kate Goddard, Ethan Lee-Birch’s tips on social media marketing, and the official opening of Stone’s Wharf, Weston Rhyn.

 

Sign up below to receive the next issue direct to your inbox.

At Home with Monks is our regular Newsletter, available to pick up in our offices or via email direct to your inbox.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Sell your home  –  Property search

Respected local estate agent Kate Goddard has re-joined Monks bringing her plentiful experience and luminous personality to our three offices.

 

Six years ago, Kate worked in our Shrewsbury office, qualifying as a Member of the National Association of Estate Agents.  When the opportunity arose to move to a prestigious national chain of agents, Directors and Co-owners Judy Bourne and Patricia Baila encouraged Kate and fully supported her decision.

 

To the credit of all parties, this positive relationship meant the door was always open for Kate to return to Monks.  A proficient and empathetic agent, Kate radiates knowledge gained meeting clients and colleagues from Chelsea to Chester and selling a broad mix of homes with every associated conveyancing challenge.

 

Shropshire-born, Kate began a former career in hospitality management at Shrewsbury’s iconic Armoury, part of the Brunning and Price gastro-pub chain.  With her natural ability to connect with people, Kate led successful teams in delivering first-class and memorable dining experiences.  This customer-centric approach suited Kate’s intuitive move into property sales. Reputation and recommendations are built on positive lasting impressions and Kate inspires confidence in her clients and colleagues alike.

 

Behind Kate’s passion for property is a love of architecture and history.  Fascinated by homes passed down through generations, she feels the lucky residents are only ever custodians of a building.  An admirer of period features, Kate favours an Edwardian pile.  At this stage in her property journey however, Kate shares a newly built home with her husband and daughter.  “Judy’s influence must have rubbed off on me!” she jokes.

 

Kate values the power of a strong team around her and believes that recruiting is first and foremost about personality.  “Personality always shines through”, she says.  And with Kate firmly back in our team, we agree!

 

Read next:  Patricia’s vision  –  An empowered workplace  –  Careers

One of the highlights of our year is meeting friends and clients at the annual Shrewsbury Food Festival.

Monks is a Main Sponsor of this fun, foodie event held on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June in the Quarry.  This year we are hosting the Chef’s School.  Meet us in the main tent to learn from talented chefs, cook along and try amazing food and drink.

We are also holding on to our ‘best seats in the house’ with our much appreciated sponsorship of the to-lets!

Shrewsbury Food Festival brings together independent food producers, quality street food vendors, top chefs, local brewers, and distillers, to serve up the finest food and drink which will have your taste buds jumping for joy!

Visitors can shop ‘til you drop in home and gardens, enjoy live music, and let the little ones go wild in the kid’s area.  Non-stop fun is guaranteed.

Tickets are on sale now from Shropshire Festivals.

Our lettings department is seeing speedy success securing good quality new tenants.

There is real demand for rental properties and the market is moving quickly.  Our Lettings department recently secured new tenants for two very different properties in Shrewsbury and in Wem in under 24 hours!

Our team has the expertise and knowledge to find good quality tenants for your property.  We manage comprehensive credit and identity checks on all applicants.  Employment, character and previous Landlord’s references are also obtained.

At Monks, we handle the whole letting for you.  We offer a comprehensive five step process, and can provide a full management service. 

Most importantly, in a world of fast-changing legislation, we keep you fully up to date with the current rules and ensure your properties comply.

Whether you’re an experienced landlord or letting for the first time, we have the expertise and local knowledge to find the right tenants for your property. 

Contact Lucinda on 01743 361 422 or email Lucinda.Thompson@monks.co.uk.

Read next:  Let with Monks  –  Our five step process  –  What makes us, us?

“It’s not the team with the best players that wins. It’s the players with the best team!”

Cricket season is upon us and Monks are proud to be sponsoring Wem Cricket Club and Oswestry Cricket Club.  Shirts for the mens and ladies team feature our logo and our adverts are pitched around the field.

We’re looking forward to catching up with players, supporters and locals in the club house.

Please feel free to come over and chat to us about your moving plans, whether you are buying, selling or renting.  We are here to help make your move happen.

Read next:  Welcome to Wem  –  Welcome to Oswestry –  Meet the Team

When a customer review comes in that is this good, we are proud to publish the whole letter!

28th April 2024

Hi Beth

Further to your email confirming completion of the sale of our home.  Lee and I both agree that from start to finish we have had a great service from Monks.

We were impressed with Judy when she came to see us and explain the service.  Judy was clearly knowledgeable, experienced and professional which engenders trust.

We have had feedback from potential buyers when attending viewings that the promotion of our home and in particular the on-line walk-through-the-house tool was positively influential on selling the property, in a true and valid way.

Chris provided a service for EPC evaluation and was helpful with enquiries if you were not available.

Beth, dealing with you was a pleasure.  You provided a service to us and potential buyers which was helpful, showed integrity and you were easy to talk to, which for us was important.  You go above and beyond to assist people.  We have had poor experiences with estate agents in the past and you have shown that it can be a team effort with open and honest effort on both sides.  We are glad we have a positive experience to talk about.

We have been approached by people around SY11 asking about Monks and the experience, also some who are thinking of selling their home. We have shared our positive experience with them.

Thank you for your time and patience.

Warmest regards

Tina and Lee Colley

 

Read next:  Meet the Team  –  Contact Monks  –  New Homes

Monks are super proud Greg Wilshaw who completed TWO marathons in TWO weeks raising funds for TWO charities.

The Brighton Marathon was on Sunday 7^th April, followed by the London Marathon on Sunday 21^st April 2024.

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Meet the personalities  –  Property search

From setting the standard as Shropshire’s leading estate agency, to readiness for a regulated industry, Patricia Baila draws on her impressive international career in her vision for Monks.

 

Raised in an entrepreneurial family, Patricia determined early that she would become a businesswoman.  “Growing up, I used to visit my grandfather’s and father’s businesses.  My dad bought me a phone and note pad and I used to spend hours watching him work and having long conversations with my imaginary clients!”

 

A degree in Business Administration followed with holidays spent gaining practical experience.  Patricia still makes time to revisit her first employers in her hometown where she worked part-time and learnt to value trust and relationship building.

 

Drawn to international opportunities, Patricia saw perfecting the English language as essential and, in 2000, moved to the Lake District to study at the University of Lancaster.  Returning to Spain she excelled working for an export company with high-net-worth clients based across Spain, France, UK and Ireland, and Lebanon.

 

When Patricia entered real estate, she discovered the industry is all about the people:  guiding clients through the largest financial transactions of their lives.  With that role comes responsibility, a duty to be honest and empathetic, and accountability to manage the transaction with knowledge and expertise.

 

It is this level of professionalism that Patricia is insistent on instilling into the practice and culture of Monks.  Her mission is to counter the sometimes-stereotypical view of estate agents and to build a business based on honesty and transparency, expertise and responsibility.

 

Patricia has a particular interest in developing people.  She leads Monks’ Continuous Personal Development programme which offers staff appraisals, career planning and support in gaining industry qualifications.  Patricia is herself a qualified Member of the National Association of Estate Agents.  Monks’ practice of promoting from within and offering family-friendly policies has created a loyal workforce and a positive culture of female advancement.

 

“We always say to our team that if they want to grow within Monks, the sky is the limit!“

 

A positive attitude and a can-do approach drive Patricia’s optimistic outlook on life.  With a smile on her face, she believes there is a solution to every problem.  Mindful of her well-being, Patricia balances hard work with enjoying live music, a glass of red wine, walking in the hills, and visiting her family in Spain.

 

Patricia is pro regulation of the UK property industry, as in many other countries.  Government regulation by licensing would ensure estate agents abide by a set of guarantees and requirements, receive official training, and are regulated by an Ombudsman with accountability through law.

 

Under Patricia’s guidance, Monks is primed to lead a regulated and licensed industry and remain the leading estate agency in Shropshire.

 

Read next:  Meet the Personalities  –  What makes us, us  –  Careers

Monks has seen an exceptionally busy start to 2024 with the same trends showing across Shropshire as the rest of the UK.

 

Follow this link to read our latest Newsletter including an interview with Patricia Baila, and foreword from Judy Bourne, Directors and Co-owners at Monks.

 

Sign up below to receive the next issue direct to your inbox.

 

At Home with Monks is our regular Newsletter, available to pick up in our offices or via email direct to your inbox.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Sell your home  –  Property search

On #IWD we can celebrate the many achievements of our female-led business.  However it is the knowledge that gender equality and female empowerment are firmly engrained in our culture and in our practice that we truly value.

 

Monks is a self-funded business, owned and led by women, and with 80% female employees.  Judy Bourne and Patricia Baila bought the business to become Directors and Co-owners in 2014.  For context, in 2022 just 18% of the UK’s small and medium-sized enterprises with employees were led by women*.

 

Investing in people is key to Monks’ success.  In the last 12 months three female staff have been promoted, reflecting Monks’ policy on the advancement of women.  Beth Griffiths achieved her MNAEA Level 3 qualification in February 2024 and was promoted to Senior Sales Negotiator along with a male colleague.  Monks follow a policy of equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender.

 

As part of Monks’ recruitment, we offer Continuous Personal Development training and annual performance appraisals.  This focus on helping staff to grow within the business appealed to Beth who moved from another local agent: “I knew that Monks valued training and career progression, and this was one of the reasons I joined them.”

 

“As employers, we understand women have a difficult journey to get where they are now and we want to support them through their process.  We always say to our team that if they want to grow within Monks, the sky is the limit!”  explains Patricia Baila.

 

Lucinda Thompson, MARLA and MNAEA, is a perfect example of growing within the business.  She started her career at Monks as a Letting Negotiator in May 2015 and became part of the Senior Management Team three years ago.  During this time, Lucinda was supported through her qualifications, became a member of ARLA and NAEA, got married, and had a daughter.  “It is great to see families grow as part of Monks!” smiles Patricia.

 

Monks is proud to offer family-friendly policies to all staff.  We employ seven mothers and three grandmothers who all balance child-care commitments with their jobs.

 

Monks’ practice of female advancement extends to supplier diversity and networking with other female-led businesses.  Monks trusts the services of Sarah Ridings at Ellis-Ridings Mortage Services.  We work regularly with Anna Kayiatou at Dutch Living.  Carlie Birch, Director at Penguin Electrical, is a long-standing supplier.

 

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

 

* According to data from the Government’s annual Small Business Survey.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Careers at Monks

Congratulations to James Archer and Beth Griffiths on passing their Propertymark Level 3 qualifications and being promoted to Senior Sales Negotiators.

 

Monks are very proud of the hard work and commitment James and Beth have shown to achieve this promotion.  The equivalent in demand to an A-level, Propertymark advises 120 hours of personal study time is dedicated.  Those 5 meaningful letters which illustrate their experience and dedication – MNAEA – are now proudly secured to their signatures.

 

Monks support the continuing professional development of all our staff to maintain high professional standards and to further improve the quality of service offered to our clients.  Propertymark is the UK’s specialist awarding organisation offering industry-recognised qualifications in property.

 

Monks believe in growing from within and both Beth and James have been promoted to Senior Sales Negotiator in recognition of their dedication to property.

 

Based in our Oswestry office, Beth has working in property since 2016.  She joined Monks knowing that the management team valued training and career progression.  Beth be reached at 01691 674 567 or by emailing beth.griffiths@monks.co.uk.

 

James has worked for Monks for three years in our Shrewsbury office.  He is available for all enquires in the Shrewsbury area on 01743 361 422 or by emailing james.archer@monks.co.uk

 

When choosing Monks as your estate agent you can feel confident in the hard-working attitude, experience and qualifications of our team.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Careers at Monks –  Property search

Offering specialist mortgage advice and associated protection services, Ellis-Ridings Mortgage Solutions can provide the support you need when buying or selling your property with Monks.

 

Monks has chosen to partner with Ellis-Ridings Mortgage Solutions due to their up-to-date knowledge and conscientious approach to helping home buyers.  Co-owner Sarah Ridings worked with Monks for many years and has extensive knowledge of the property industry, especially New Homes and Shared ownership purchases.

 

Judy Bourne, Director of Monks, explains: “We are delighted to have Sarah back under the Monks umbrella!  It’s early days into the relationship but we are already receiving the feedback we expected from this great partnership.”

 

“Mike Ridings is handling our mortgage – thank you for recommending him, he’s brilliantly efficient!” –  Ms R, Wem, February 2024

 

Michael Ridings has 15 years of expertise in the industry.  He possesses extensive qualifications in Mortgage Practice and Equity Release and specialises in delivering tailored guidance to suit individual requirements.

 

“We are delighted to be working with Monks who have a leading reputation in the industry for providing a high-level personalised service. Their business ethos of putting the customer first in what they do, matches our own. This allows us, as a team, to help every client with all aspects of their home moving journey“ added Michael.

 

Ellis-Ridings offer an initial free consultation to review your current circumstances and to understand what is required to move forward with a mortgage application.  All advice is whole of market and bespoke.

 

Their Specialist Mortgage Services include First Time buyers, Remortgages, Porting, Product Switching, Debt Consolidation, Buy to Lets, New Homes, Shared ownership and Offset Mortgages.  Specialist Protection Services include Life insurance, Critical Illness Cover, Income Protection, Buildings Cover and Contents Insurance.

 

If you are buying a property with Monks, contact Ellis-Ridings Mortgage Solutions to get the right advice and mortgage deal for you.

Read next:  Property search  –  The buying process  –  What makes us, us?

What a start to 2024!

The local property market has boomed this Winter and, here at Monks, we are prepared for a busy year!

Follow this link to read our first Newsletter of 2024 with a introduction from Judy Bourne and Patricia Baila, Directors and Co-owners, on what to expect for the year ahead.

 

 

At Home with Monks is our regular Newsletter, available to pick up in our offices or via email direct to your inbox.

Our aim is to share timely, original and relevant information about the local property market and about Monks – whether you are buying, selling or letting.

 

Sign up below to receive the latest issue direct to your inbox.

 

Read next:  What makes us, us?  –  Meet the personalities  –  Welcome to Oswestry

 

 

Buying a brand-new home is so exciting, but it can feel a little daunting when faced with a plain white interior.  Interior designer Anna Kayiatou explains how she builds up layers of colour, curves and texture to create a home where you want to linger.

 

Sheepskin rugs, wooden furniture and spiky flower decorations all feature in Anna’s designs for a reason.  “I want people to reach out and touch things”, she explains. “Running a hand along a tactile surface makes us slow down and take in our surroundings.  Engaging our sense of touch triggers surprise and delight, and that’s exactly how a new home should make you feel.”

 

Anna is adding her designer touch to the four-bedroom Rhyn on Cornovii Homes’ new development at Ifton Green in St Martin’s near Oswestry.  With a spacious lounge, open-plan kitchen and dining room, and four very different bedrooms, Anna advises that each space should feel unique and yet complement your over-arching style.

 

A scheme of nature-inspired shades and textures unifies Anna’s design.  Creamy fabrics, mango wood furniture and cinnamon-hued accessories create a calming ground floor.

 

Upstairs the colours and fabrics are darker and richer with nods to the animal world:  peacock-green, charcoal-feathered herons, and cheeky brass monkeys.

 

Anna likes to introduce curves to soften a room and create movement.  An oval-shaped dining table is great for bringing people together and allowing easy access to the smart patio and garden beyond.  “This table is one of our best sellers!” smiles Anna, referring to her shop in Shrewsbury, Dutch Living, which sells furniture and accessories sourced from Holland, Belgium and Denmark.

 

Cornovii Homes have created a welcoming Show Home where you can relax and plan your next move.  To book your viewing, email Judy or call 01743 361422.

 

Read next:  Ifton Green, by Cornovii Homes  –  New homes  –  Oswestry

When you ask Anne Marie Taylor about Wem her eyes light up. “Kind, friendly, genuine, helpful and a diverse mix of characters… Wem grows on you!!”

 

Anne Marie has insider knowledge of the Wem property market.  She moved here 10 years ago, first deciding to rent and get a feel for the area, then buying her home from the owner after just 12 months. Wem hasn’t disappointed, delivering the perfect work and life balance, and even enticing her jet-set daughter to settle nearby.

“In Wem you get so much more house for your money”, explains Anne Marie. “And it is so well connected, especially by rail.  11 minutes into Shrewsbury with a £5 return ticket, and trains all evening!”

Anne Marie’s in-depth knowledge of Wem’s property stock means she can quickly match homes with prospective buyers or renters.  There are plenty of bungalows within walking distance of essential amenities, ideal for retirees.  There are grand period properties and detached homes down winding lanes for high-end buyers.  She knows the appeal of newly built homes and the draw of pre-loved properties in need of some TLC (and can recommend good local tradespeople to help!).

It’s the diversity of people she meets, and understanding their unique requirements, that Anne Marie says makes her job in Wem so interesting.

Anne Marie enjoys listing Wem’s surprisingly varied amenities. There is Yoga in the Townhall, as well as BYO-wine Movie nights.  A theatre with drama groups for all ages.  Local fresh produce and craft markets.  A delicious new patisserie.

For families, Anne Marie points out the local schools and popular scouts, brownies and clubs which offer holiday activities.  She has met many young couples returning to Wem to raise their families and emphasises again the value for money.

It’s clear that Anne Marie likes to help people and she cares about getting it right.

Read next:  Property search  –  About Wem  –  What makes us, us?

Inflated moving costs, high-interest mortgages and ever-increasing property prices are all conspiring to keep tenants in situ for longer.  If managed correctly, this brings benefits for landlords and for tenants.

 

So what should landlords be doing during a long tenancy?

• Support tenants to access the right energy tariffs. With increases in energy prices and changes to tariffs, it is important that tenants can move to the provider that works for them.  As they are not the property owner, they may be unsure about changing providers or be unable to change without the correct paperwork.  Talk to your tenants about their energy usage patterns and support a move if necessary; you could save them a pretty penny and earn favour.

• Check safety certificates are up-to-date.  With a rolling tenancy, it’s easy to lose track of when certificates were last issued.  Gas supplies need checking annually; electricity every five years.  An EPC report is valid 10 years, and even though the Landlord reform bill has not made achieving E-rating or higher a legal requirement, it is still good practice to provide an environmentally-sound building.

• Build a good relationship.  Over time, a positive relationship can grow between tenant and Landlord.  Communicating your long-term plans for the property can make tenants feel settled.  In turn, they will be more likely to give a lengthy notice period if they do have plans to move on.  Both parties gain security.

• Property maintenance. Whilst it is important to schedule regular visits to inspect your investment, if you can establish good routes of communication with tenants, they will likely flag up any issues within a good time frame. Furthermore, long term tenants are more likely to invest in your property.  This could be fresh decorating or improving the garden.

• Wear-and-tear reduced.  Tenants planning to stay for several years will cause less incremental damage as they care for their home’s ongoing appearance.  This could be looking after carpets or employing a regular cleaner.  This can reduce the inevitable wear-and-tear costs at the end of a tenancy.

• Schedule annual rent reviews.  Having a long-term tenant shouldn’t mean that you miss out on current market rates.   Finding a new tenant at a higher rent needs to be weighed against the losses of a void period and agency fees.  Suggest to your existing tenant a smaller increase than market levels and you both win!  Of course, this will be seen more positively if you are already addressing the points above!

Monks provide a Full Management Service and can handle all the above on your behalf.  If you have any specific requirements, we’re happy to adapt our services to suit them.  Our role is to represent the Landlord and to maximise your investment.

Contact Monks’ Lettings Manager, Lucinda Thompson for details.

 

Read more:   Full management service  –  Let only  –  Our 5-step process

Beth Griffiths and the Oswestry team received this glowing customer review which epitomises what Monks’ service levels are all about.

 

“I am very happy that I chose Monks to sell my house.  Beth Griffiths provided a dedicated, professional and personable service from beginning to end.  I felt looked after throughout the whole process.

I chose two agents, and Monks rose above.  The level of communication and overall service I received reflected the dedication they had to sell my house.  There was never a time when I felt they lacked anything in respect of a high standard of service and professionalism.

Beth guided and oversaw the whole process and along with colleagues beside her whose efforts I appreciate, brought together what was a smooth, positive and stress-free process.

I am enthusiastic in recommending Monks without hesitation.”

 

At Monks we pride ourselves on being a people-centred business that operates with the highest integrity.  The business attracts like-minded, loyal and committed people who strive to exceed their customer’s expectations.  Our ethos can be refined down to HOME:  Honest, Original, Motivated and Empathetic.

Recent reviews and local recommendations are so important when selecting an Estate Agent you can trust.  Well done Beth for leading by example.

Wasn’t it satisfying to see Shropshire listed in ABTA’s 10 Destinations to Watch in 2024?  Rich in history, a gastronomic paradise, beautiful countryside and a lively calendar of family activities…  oh yes, we know!

 

At Monks, we consider ourselves ‘county connoisseurs’ and love to share our passion for the Shropshire lifestyle.  We use our lived experience of local geography, history and communities to paint a picture of the properties we bring to market and add depth to the unique story behind every home.

 

Our team’s love of Shropshire brings a genuine touch to our service.  Ask Lucinda about her outdoor adventures in the Shropshire Hills, chat to Beth about child-friendly trips to Ellesmere or ask Anne Marie for tips on dog-walking around Wem.  Our roots run deep with staff born and raised the area, like Ethan in Oswestry.  While others like Patricia have moved from afar to choose Shropshire as their home.

 

Sharing insider information with potential buyers helps sell the lifestyle of a future home.  Details of a local sports club, available allotment plots, or walks with panoramic views can all inspire a connection with the property.  And let’s not forget the essentials of schooling options, transport links and which pub serves the best Sunday Roast!

 

Shropshire is the first UK destination to appear on the ABTA list which is designed to inspire British holiday makers.  This predicted wave of tourists presents a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to invest in holiday lets, and these charming properties would all appeal to paying guests:  timber-framed townhouse in Shrewsbury and a former Post Office in Ruyton Xi.

 

“This idyllic English county on the Welsh borders has some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, towns and villages. Shropshire is not only a rural gem, it was also the birthplace of the industrial revolution.”

– ABTA report, January 2024.

 

So, whether you’re looking to settle in this stunning county or invest in a thriving tourist hotspot, Monks are here to guide you every step of the way.  Our knowledge and enthusiasm are why so many customers choose Monks as their local estate agent.

 

Read next:  Explore Properties –  Locations – Meet the Team

We have been having fun with New Year resolutions this month, trying to beat some of those bad habits and choosing some positive goals for the year ahead.

 

With an impressive mix of health, property and career goals, we will be following the team’s progress all year.

 

• “I’m doing Dry January to give myself a healthy start. But I’m also conscious of supporting my favourite bars and restaurants at this notoriously quiet time of year, so I’m still going out but ordering alcohol-free cocktails!” laughs Judy.

 

• “My goal is to plan ahead with more family time booked into my diary”, says Patricia, inspired by her recent trip to her native Spain.

 

• Beth in our Oswestry office has career goals: “Completing my National Association of Estate Agents qualification (just one more unit to go!) and progressing to a Senior Sales Negotiator.”

 

• “Drinking two litres of water every day!” is Lucinda’s focus, staying healthy and hydrated while she oversees the Lettings and Rental department.

 

• James will be moving house this year, having already sold and bought properties through Monks and awaiting his completion dates. He jokes “I need to advise myself now which is never easy!”.

 

• “My promise to myself this year is to declutter my life”, offered Amanda. “I have accumulated so many things over the years.  We all have things in our homes that may be just what some other family needs.”

 

• “Move house!” commits Suzanne in our marketing department. “After almost three years of renting and watching the market change, 2024 feels like the right time!”

 

While the Monks team can’t help you with all your resolutions, finding new homes is where we excel.  So if you are planning on selling, buying or renting property in 2024, Monks can make it happen!

Read next:  Meet the Team  –  Contact Monks  –  New Homes