Western Daily Press

Grand Approach and Fine Grounds

Approached via an impressively long private driveway is The Lodge. This individual and distinctive home situated in over two acres of gardens, grounds and woodland in Stowey, Somerset. In a private setting on the edge of the Sutton Court Estate, this four-bedroom property has been restored and refurbished to a high standard and is unique in its style and setting.

Updated Home Ideal for Gardeners

Charming Cottage has Been Lovingly Restored

Spring is approaching and the property market is blooming according to Matthew Harvey, director at Chesterton Humberts, Cirencester. He said: "We are experiencing a vibrant and busy start to the year.

Justin Lowe, Partner of Greenslade Taylor Hunt, Says It's Time to Take Action

Putting off moving until after the summer holidays or waiting until after Christmas are the usual causes of home buying inertia. But now there are more reasons to put off the dreaded day: first there is the General Election, then the World Cup in June. A brief period of euphoria may sweep the nation should England win the trophy in South Africa, but this is hardly going to kick- start a housing boom ,or usher in a slump. Likewise, there will be few surprises, no matter who wins the election. ...

Retired's Wealth Tied Up in Homes

RETIRED homeowners are collectively sitting on more than Pounds 765 billion worth of housing wealth, research has shown. People aged over 65 collectively own property worth Pounds 765.18 billion on which they do not have a mortgag e, according to equity release specialist Key Retirement Solutions.

Diy Advice to Prevent Floods

DIY stores and building merchants should offer advice to homeowners on ways to make their property more resilient to flooding, an environment chief has suggested. Environment Agency chairman Lord Chris Smith also urged UK companies to develop more innovative products to help people protect their houses against the effects of floods, which are likely to become more common with climate change.

Two Great Chances to Make an Investment

Two large houses close to the centre of Bristol and both in need of refurbishment are on the market with Besley Hill Estate Agents in Bishopston. Number 12 Banner Road, Montpelier, is a three-bedroom house on three levels with potential for development into flats, subject to planning permission, or use as a family home for someone wanting to make their mark.

Rambling Farm in Need of Some Tlc

Although it is in need of some upgrading, Grade II listed Postlebury Farm has the potential to become a stunning character family home. Situated in Cloford, Frome, the property occupies an elevated position enjoying fabulous views over the surrounding Somerset countryside. The farmhouse is believed to date from the late 16th century and is largely built of local stone and it has many character features including mullioned windows, window seats and large inglenook fireplaces.

Winning Blend On the Farm

Situated between Chippenham and Swindon is the rural hamlet of Dauntsey, where you will find Scots Smith Farm. This handsome red- brick period house is believed to date from the 18th century but is now very modern. The accommodation is well proportioned and flows well, making it an ideal house for entertaining.

Clubland Vision for Sale ; Property News

Stephen and Co Auctioneers is selling a former nightclub in Weston-super-Mare at its forthcoming sale. "Vision" is between Beach Road and the High Street and needs complete refurbishment. The sale is being held on March 24 at the Commodore Hotel, Kewstoke, from 7pm.

Devon Lodges Ready ; Property News

Milton's Paradise Found

With all the elegance of the Victorian age, but with none of the maintenance involved in the upkeep of an old property, Milton Court enjoys the best of both worlds. On The Avenue, Clifton - right on the edge of the Downs - this impressive town house is one of two semi-detached houses built in 1992 by a reputable local builder.

Well Preserved Home, Nested in Its Own Land

Nestled amongst acres of gardens and paddocks, this fine family house in Hunstrete has some spectacular views. The four-bedroom home is ideally positioned on the edge of this desirable hamlet and is conveniently located midway between Bath and Bristol.

Open Days to See Top Waterside Apartments

With some fabulous panoramic views across Lyme Bay and the magnificent Exe estuary, Regatta Court has to be one of the finest waterside locations on the south coast of Devon. This new development comprises 39 new homes, ranging from spacious one-bedroom apartments up to a grand sixth-floor penthouse with three bedrooms.

Rise in Second Homes

The number of second homes in England rose by 2.6 per cent in 2009 following a contraction in 2008 of 0.4 per cent. This rise, which equated to 6,212 additional second homes, pushed the total to an all-time record of 245,384. Liam Bailey, head of residential research at Knight Frank, said: "The number of second homes in England has been steadily rising over recent years. The recession and credit crunch saw this trend falter in 2008. The recovery in 2009 marked a return to long term growth."

Keep Your Options Open Upstairs

Modern, but with touches of historic elegance, number 4, Furlong Place, in Axbridge, is on the market for Pounds 465,000. Contemporary styling, including high-gloss kitchen units with funky splashbacks, is mixed well with fixtures and fittings suitable for an older country house, such as an Aga, and a wood-burning stove in the sitting room. There are some beautiful wooden floors and naturally airy rooms that are enhanced by imaginative lighting systems.