October 2025 - Fleet, Hartley Wintney, Odiham McCarthy Holden Estate Agents

Landmark Renters’ Rights Act Becomes Law

October 28, 2025 by John Holden

Yesterday the Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent, delivering the most significant overhaul of the English and Welsh private rented sector in a generation. The law aims to rebalance rights between tenants and landlords by strengthening safety and security for renters, tightening standards for properties, and simplifying dispute resolution..

Key Measures

Abolishes ‘no-fault’ section 21 evictions entirely, replacing them with a clearer, limited set of grounds for possession and stricter notice periods.
Introduces a new Decent Homes standard for rented properties with mandatory repairs timelines and minimum energy efficiency requirements (EPC band C target for private rentals within a phased timetable).
Establishes a national landlord and letting agent registration and licensing regime with sanctions for rogue landlords, including fines, civil penalties and criminal sanctions for severe breaches.
Creates an independent Housing Ombudsman or expands an existing dispute-resolution body with powers to issue binding orders and compensation for tenants; fast-track arbitration for common disputes (repairs, deposits, unlawful eviction).
Strengthens protections for renters in private tenancies against retaliatory eviction and unfair rent increases by requiring justification and limits on frequency of increases.
Caps certain fees charged to tenants (administration, referencing, inventory) and reforms deposit handling and dispute timelines.
Extends possession and rehousing duties in limited circumstances, such as where poor conditions render properties uninhabitable; enhances support for vulnerable tenants facing eviction.
Provides funding and guidance for local authorities to enforce standards, and powers to issue Remedial Notices and take emergency remediation action.
Commits to data collection and reporting on the private rented sector to monitor impacts and a statutory review clause after a set period (often 3–5 years).

The Act signals a major policy shift toward tenants’ rights after years of campaigning by charities and tenant groups; ministers argue it will improve housing stability and standards, while many landlord bodies warn of reduced investment in the private rented sector and potential rent rises.

Operationally, the law places a new compliance burden on landlords and local authorities will need increased resources to enforce the regime.

As the new law bedrocks renters’ protections, its true test will be in implementation: whether enforcement is adequately funded, whether landlords adapt without shrinking supply, and whether renters actually see safer, more secure homes — not just stronger rights on paper.

It is expected that there will be a phased approach to a number of the changes, however, the creation of periodic tenancies and the abolition of Section 21 notices are expected to be at the forefront.

Footnote: If you have any questions or wish to discuss possible implications email Nicola Bremner ….

10 ways to style winter berry shades in the home

October 27, 2025 by John Holden

Seasonal and seductive, dark interiors are bearing fruit… so much so, we’re embracing shades of cassis, deep claret and plum, with winter berries are emerging as a firm favourite in the world of interiors.

Such is the surge in popularity, cookware, textiles and accent walls are being reimagined in rich berry tones – with new collections lending warmth, while creating an inviting atmosphere with a sense of luxury.

Indeed, leading interiors firm, Graham & Brown have named their Colour of the Year 2026 Divine Damson, which they describe as a “deep, timeless shade that evokes elegance, luxury and sophistication.”

Cited as a versatile and enduring colour, the inside team of designers say it “enriches a variety of styles and spaces,” and its versatility “makes it suitable all year-round, offering a cocooning, comforting feel in the colder months.”

While in summer, they say natural sunlight “brings out its vibrant depth allowing it to transition seamlessly across the seasons.”

Highlighting rich, bold hues, here’s what’s on our wish list…

Think a comforting autumnal beetroot soup, or red wine casserole, and this is your new centrepiece to chime with supper parties and themed tablescapes. Style with burgundy velvet ribbons on stemware, and a bottle of bordeaux.

As well as adding drama, colour and texture, this Scandi-style dining set makes for a conversation piece with its high-gloss finish, on-trend solid, pillar legs, and cool dining chairs… a dead cert for colour drenching.

This dark and moody motif features exotic birds, blooms and fauna for a dramatic backdrop – and generous dose of high drama. Said to be inspired by ancient textiles, nature and mythology, the design is produced as a double-width set; meaning you need two coordinating rolls for hanging the horizontal repeat pattern… frame the paper with a lick of Divine Damson to link the look

Chic and contemporary, this polished sideboard in a deep shade of cherry, topped with gold tone T-bar handles will enhance any aesthetic.

Upholstered in a plush chenille, these modish bar stools will bring colour and comfort to a kitchen island or trendy home bar.

This vintage-inspired tassel lampshade shouts sumptuous, and can be used to dramatic effect with its gorgeous gold fringing, scalloped detail and rich, burgundy hue.

More than a decorative afterthought, when you want to drink in a smooth merlot or cabernet sauvignon, set the scene for wining and dining with this whimsy wallpaper.

This statement bauble will add instant charm to stylish place settings… and can double up as a napkin holder.

Glamorous and romantic, ruffle-trimmed bedding in beautiful berry tones will luxe up any bedroom scheme – and who wouldn’t look forward to cocooning themselves in a delicious dark mulberry as we head into snuggle season?

Note – article by By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA. Prices correct at time of going to press but may have changed since.

3 new Mary Berry recipes to make this autumn

October 28, 2025October 24, 2025 by John Holden

Mary Berry turned 90 this year and to celebrate, she has released a new cookbook, Mary 90 – aiming to give home cooks a ‘career-spanning’ collection of fuss-free recipes for many different occasions.

It accompanies a new BBC TV series, Mary at 90: A Lifetime of Cooking.

The TV chef shares a mixture of brand-new recipes and her nostalgic classics, with Berry saying it has been a “sheer joy” to write, and includes the baking she’s so known for, alongside tasty, easy mid-week meals and crowd pleasers.

Fragrant chicken traybake

“An all-in-one dish, this delicious, aromatic chicken recipe is vibrant and full of flavour,” says Berry. “Serve with rice or a dressed salad.”

Ingredients:

(Serves 4–6)

1 large aubergine, sliced into half-moons

2 peppers, deseeded and sliced into large pieces

1 large onion, sliced

3tbsp sunflower oil

3 dried lime leaves

1 large stick of lemongrass, bashed

3 large chicken breast fillets, each sliced in half

2tbsp sweet chilli sauce

150g baby spinach leaves

Small bunch of Thai basil, chopped

For the fragrant sauce:

1 x 400ml can coconut milk

2tbsp Thai red curry paste

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2tsp freshly grated ginger

Juice of 1 lime

2tsp fish sauce

2tbsp sweet chilli sauce

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/Gas 7.

2. To make the sauce, mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.

3. Scatter the aubergine, peppers and onion into a large shallow roasting tin. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the oil and toss everything together. Pour over half of the sauce. Add the lime leaves and lemongrass to the tin and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

4. Toss the chicken in the remaining oil and the sweet chilli sauce, and season well. Place a large frying pan over a high heat until very hot. Add the chicken and brown very quickly until sealed and golden, stirring constantly.

5. Remove the roasting tin from the oven and pour over the remaining sauce. Place the chicken on top and return to the oven for about 15 minutes, or until cooked through.

6. Transfer the chicken onto a plate. Stir the spinach and Thai basil into the sauce and vegetables in the tin and gently warm over the hob until the spinach has wilted.

7. Serve the chicken traybake with rice.

Best made and served. Not suitable for freezing.

Skate wing with caper sauce and samphire

“Hugely popular, skate wings are readily available and simple to cook. The sauce makes the dish extra special. Buy samphire from the fish counter in the supermarket or farm shop,” says Berry.

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

4 x 400g skate wings, edges trimmed with scissors

100g butter, softened, plus a knob

Juice of ½ lemon

4tbsp capers

4tbsp finely chopped parsley

400g fresh samphire

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6.

2. Lie the skate wings on a board and use half the butter to spread over both sides of the skate wings. Season well with salt and ground black pepper.

3. Heat a large frying pan over a high heat. When hot, brown the wings in batches for 2 minutes on each side until golden.

4. Place the browned wings in a large roasting tin and transfer to the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 minutes until cooked through (the translucent flesh will become opaque when it is done). To test for doneness, try to pull the flesh away carefully from the bones with a sharp knife – if it comes away easily, it is done. Place on a large platter and cover with foil. Leave to rest in a warm place.

4. Add the remaining butter to the frying pan and heat until nutty brown in colour. Add the lemon juice, capers and parsley and remove from the heat.

5. Meanwhile, cook the samphire in a large frying pan with a knob of butter and a splash of water over a high heat. Fry for a few minutes to heat through.

6. Divide the samphire between the plates and top each one with a skate wing. Pour over the caper butter sauce to serve.

Best made and served. Not suitable for freezing.

Carrot cake with frosting

“A carrot cake is so popular, especially in coffee shops and bakeries,” says Berry. “My version includes my favourite spices. Carrot cake originated in the USA where they make cakes with oil, rather than our butter-based sponges. Use a flavourless oil, such as sunflower or vegetable.”

Ingredients:

(Serves 8–10)

4 large eggs

175g caster sugar

75g light muscovado sugar

250ml sunflower oil, plus extra for greasing

1tsp vanilla extract

2 ripe bananas, mashed

150g carrots, peeled and coarsely grated

275g self-raising flour

2tsp baking powder

1tsp ground cinnamon

1tsp ground ginger

½tsp mixed spice

55g walnuts or pecans, finely chopped, plus a few extra for decoration

For the cream cheese frosting:

250g butter, softened

2tsp vanilla extract

350g icing sugar

350g full-fat cream cheese

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas 4. Grease and line the bases of 2 x 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed sandwich tins.

2. Break the eggs into a large bowl and beat with a fork to break up. Add the caster and muscovado sugar, oil and vanilla and mix well.

3. Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl and whisk using an electric hand whisk until just combined. Be careful not to over beat.

4. Divide the mixture between the two prepared tins and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes until well risen and lightly golden. Leave to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

5. Meanwhile, make the frosting. Measure the butter, vanilla and icing sugar into a large bowl and whisk using an electric hand whisk until combined. Add the cream cheese and beat until creamy and light.

6. Peel the paper from the bases of the sponges and invert one onto a plate. Spread with frosting. Place the other cake on top and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides, leaving a pretty swirl on top. Decorate with walnuts or pecans to serve.

Can be made and assembled up to 8 hours ahead. Freezes well but best to ice on the day.

Mary 90 – My Very Best Recipes by Mary Berry is published in hardback by BBC Books, priced £28. Photography by Tara Fisher. Available now

‘They play the game beautifully’: Claudia Winkleman on the The Celebrity Traitors

October 22, 2025 by John Holden

In a world dominated by Netflix, TikTok, and doom scrolling, event TV has become a rare phenomenon, though a few shows still manage to capture audiences.

When The Traitors premiered in November 2022, the reality competition series drew an average of 5.4 million viewers each week, eager to watch the latest twists of deception and betrayal.

Since then, the increasingly popular murder-mystery-style psychology game, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, has aired three series and is now gearing up for a celebrity edition.

The show, adapted from the Dutch series De Verraders, pits a group of secretly appointed “traitors” against a majority of “faithfuls.”

It’s up to the faithfuls to identify the traitors and banish them from the game before they become the next victims.

Players who survive to the end have the chance to win the prize money but if a traitor goes undetected, they’ll take it all.

The Celebrity Traitors will see 19 famous faces, including broadcaster Clare Balding and singer Paloma Faith, gather in the Scottish Highlands for the chance to win up to £100,000 for a charity of their choice.

Retired Olympic diver Tom Daley, actor Sir Stephen Fry, and Thursday Murder Club star Celia Imrie are also among the competitors.

Joining them are former England rugby player and podcaster Joe Marler, actresses Tameka Empson and Ruth Codd, Welsh singer Charlotte Church, singer Cat Burns, and comedians Alan Carr and Nick Mohammed.

Rounding out the cast are comedians Lucy Beaumont and Joe Wilkinson, historian David Olusoga, Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway, YouTube star Niko Omilana, Scottish actor Mark Bonnar and presenter Jonathan Ross.

Winkleman, 53, admits she was scared when the idea of a celebrity edition was first pitched.

“I was scared. Only because I’m in love with this show and I wanted to keep it small,” says the London-born broadcaster.

“Once a year, or maybe once every two years, felt like enough. My bosses, thank goodness, ignored everything I said.”

Asked about the line-up of celebrities, she adds: “It’s an absolute honour. I could barely breathe when I saw them all in the Highlands. I’m such a fan of every single one of them.

“The whole team were just in awe, it was hard not to scream, ‘you’re here!’ When I talked to Stephen Fry, I almost welled up; I told him, ‘this was my dream.’ We’re incredibly lucky to have the cast that we have. Each one of them is tremendous.”

Winkleman, who also co-hosts Strictly Come Dancing, says staying in character was harder with the celebrity series.

“The biggest challenge was being ‘strict,’” she explains. “All I wanted to do was chat and be friendly, but my role is aloof and grumpy. I found it hard not to just sit down with them and have a cup of tea.

“My family and I are obsessed with Joe Wilkinson. I had to stop myself from getting his autograph for my son.”

She adds: “They’re incredibly smart and kind. They play the game beautifully and were fully immersed in it. It was an extraordinary experience, and we’re so lucky 19 people said yes. It’s something we never take for granted and are so grateful for.”

Balding, 54, who has presented coverage of the Olympic Games and Wimbledon for the BBC, says she is drawn to the show from a psychological perspective.

“I love the show. Yes, I really find it fascinating, the way group thinking can be influenced,” the Hampshire-born presenter explains.

“I don’t know whether I can resist that or whether I can influence that, and I’m kind of interested in it from a psychological perspective. Also, I really want to see the castle, I want to see the grounds, and I want to meet the peacocks. Genuinely, I think it’s a fascinating programme and it’s like nothing else.”

Asked about her ability to read people, she adds: “I think I am good at it, but I can be much too trusting, so it would be very easy for somebody to convince me that they were not a Traitor. I have a few things I’ll try to look out for, and if I spot anyone being a bit casual about trying to get a shield, that will be very telling.”

Hull-born Beaumont says she has no game plan coming into the show.

“I don’t think game plans work,” says the 42-year-old comedian. “I’ve seen people think they have a game plan, but it always comes undone. I think it’s just luck – they’ve said the right thing at the right time and were aligned with the right people. I don’t have a plan for anything; I’m going to go with the flow.”

Asked if her comedy skills will come in useful, she adds: “Maybe that might help to an extent, until it starts to annoy people. I think I’m good at getting on with people, so that’s the only thing I can offer. It’s a sort of fairly OK demeanour! I haven’t got any type of plan, and I doubt I’ll contribute much to the missions, so the only thing I’ve got going is that I’m moderately pleasant.”

She adds: “If I was a Traitor, I think I could convince myself that I was a Faithful, and then I don’t think it’s so much like lying. If I could make myself genuinely believe that, then I think that’s what would get me through it.”

Faith, 44, says she plans to get rid of the boring ones if given the chance.

“Oh, I’d still vote out boring people if I’m a Faithful,” says the Hackney-born singer.

“If I don’t think someone is contributing much to our entertainment, I’ll just exert my influence at the Round Table.

When asked how she is at reading people she laughs: “I’m exceptional at reading people, and I’m worried that I’ll get voted off or murdered, because they’ll see that in me.

“I need to keep it under the radar about how good at it I am. I’m at the point in my life where people don’t even want to introduce me to their new boyfriend because they’re worried I’ll say I don’t get good vibes from him.”

She adds: “I quite like murdering people! I might see a different side to myself. I think that I’m always very moral and on my high horse so I might be surprised if I do some backstabbing.”

The Celebrity Traitors is on Wednesday, October 8 on BBC One and iPlayer.

For more editorial and properties to buy or let plus property previews (not yet on the open market), see our latest online magazine using this link https://online.flippingbook.com/view/889373357/

7 things to consider when downsizing later in life

October 21, 2025 by Sam Holden

Don’t rush into a decision and make sure you do your research. As we get older, it’s common to start rethinking where and how we live – and for many, that means considering a move to a smaller, more manageable home.

Age UK’s recent Late Movers report highlights some of the challenges older adults face when it comes to housing. A survey carried out by Opinium on behalf of Age UK in January 2025 of 2,500 people aged 66 and over, found that 36% worried about affordability, 42% about accessibility, and 35% about the condition of their home.

In addition, 72% of respondents aged between 66 and 74 said moving after the age of 75 would be difficult.

The charity warns that unsuitable housing in later life can place extra pressure on health and social care services – making early planning all the more important.

If you’re starting to think about your last big move, here are seven key things to consider when downsizing or relocating later in life…

1. Proximity to friends and family

“I often see couples moving down to Cornwall and becoming very isolated because they don’t really consider how far they are going to be from everyone,” says Cornwall-based estate agent Michael Kleinman. “They are often used to seeing their grandchildren every weekend and when they move to Cornwall, they only see them for a couple of weeks in the school holidays.

“So, it tends to be a much easier move if you stay local and have that familiarity and social network around you.”

However, if you are still keen to relocate, the estate agent highly recommends looking into the transport links of your potential new area.

“Think about transport links to and from where your family and your network are,” advises Kleinman. “If you move to a rural area, you might be 20 miles from a railway station and driving might be no longer an option.”

2. Emotional impact

Paperwork might seem like the hardest part about relocating, but many people underestimate the emotional toll downsizing can have.

“I think a lot of people don’t really consider the emotional side of moving from the family home where they have brought up all the kids,” says Kleinman. “Going from a four/five bedroom house down to a bungalow means all those years of accumulating stuff has to be condensed down and a lot of people don’t really think about the ramifications of the emotional side and the logistical difficulties of what goes and what stays.

“You have to be very brutal and ruthless about it and that’s often easier said than done. A lot of downsizers start the process and then give up and stay where they are for another year or two because they didn’t realise how hard it was going to be mentally and emotionally.”

3. Logistics

“Another thing that many people don’t consider is how different moving house is now, compared to 40/50 years ago with things like EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) and online ID checks,” says Kleinman. “The process can be very overwhelming if you aren’t overly tech savvy. People often start the process and get a few weeks or months into it and then find it overwhelming, so take their house off the market and have a rethink.”

Finding a good real estate agent who has the time to sit, listen and guide you through this can help make it less daunting.

“Work with an independent local estate agent and someone who can actually come around to your house and go through it with you,” advises Kleinman.

4. Location

Make sure you do your research before making a commitment to a new location.

“If you are thinking about moving to a different area, talk to local people in person or on social media groups to really get an understanding of that area,” recommends Kleinman. “I am often dealing with clients who are moving to an area where they don’t know anyone, have never been there before or have only been there once or twice on holiday.

“Cornwall, for example, is very different in the winter compared to the summer. If you have been on holiday there in July or August, you will get a very different experience in January. So, it’s important to do your research to see what it’s actually like to live there all-year round.”

5. Convenience of health services and local amenities

Think carefully about what type of amenities and local services are going to be crucial to you as you grow older.

“Think realistically about how far away the nearest inpatient hospital facilities are, how near the local GP and NHS dentists are and find out if they are taking on any new patients,” advises Kleinman. “Also, think about how easy or difficult it is to get to those services, as well as the normal town-centre facilities that you might need.”

6. Accessibility

Make sure your new home is going to be adaptable and functional for future you.

“Bungalows and apartments are the normal go-to and I think it’s particularly good to look for very new bungalows,” says Kleinman. “The reason being is that building regulations now have to follow rules set out by the Disability Discrimination Act, so many new bungalows have to have things like wheelchair access, wider doorways and plug sockets higher up the wall – features you won’t get in most Seventies bungalows.”

7. Maintenance

“None of us knows what’s around the corner and how long we’re going to be mobile for, so you really need to think about practical living,” says Kleinman. “Do you want a large garden? Is it going to be practical and manageable? When does the boiler need replacing? Will the house need frequent external painting?

“I would always guide clients towards a more modern property that is low maintenance. Lots of people think about how they are today, rather than what it is going to be like for them in 10/20 years’ time.”

9 ways to deck out your haunted house

October 9, 2025 by Sam Holden

After-dark decor to crown fright night celebrations and spooky soirées. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

It’s one of the most anticipated dates in the fancy dress diary, and if you’re into dressing up, Halloween celebrations (October 31) are a real scream.

And for a dose of devilish decorative drama, a flurry of eerie furnishings, thrilling tablescapes and themed feature walls make frighteningly good backdrops for a howling Halloween.

Here’s how to set the scene for a scary aesthetic….

1. Pre Lit Black Glitter Halloween Wreath & Garland, £44.99, Lights4fun

For a web of intrigue, a spectral wreath is your secret weapon for doorscaping… and putting the fear into a fireplace mantel. With 40cm wreath, 1.5 garland and 64 warm white LEDs topped with black glitter for ghoulish settings.

2. Snake Taper Candle Holder, £3.50; Ghost Stories Scented Reed Diffuser, £5, B&M Stores, in-store

This metallic serpent styled with a ghostly candle and diffuser makes a spirited statement.

3. Lights4fun 90cm Skeleton LED Halloween Decoration, £29.99, (was £54.99), Lights4fun

A spine-chilling scene-setter, this larger than life skeleton boasts 300 micro LEDs for macabre room sets and fancy dress parties.

4. Yankee Candle Mystical Tarot Card Candle, £29.99, Yankee Candle

Cast a spell with captivating aromas of cherry leather, cinnamon bark and black liquorice to imbibe ancient rituals… with purple signifying magic and mystery.

5. Diablo Gothic Occult Wallpaper, £79 per roll, Bobbi Beck

Fusing drama with mysticism, for a showstopping display you can’t beat an accent wall with supernatural symbols for an ode to Halloween – it makes a striking backdrop for entertaining trick-or-treaters, and tablescape of witches brew and blood-red punches.

6. Bats by the Building Poster, from £5.24, (was £17.45), 30 x 40cm, Poster Store

A mysterious prop such as this bat poster calls for vampire costumes and sinister settings.

7. 70s French Style Wine Glasses In Black, £14 each; Wednesday-Inspired Decorations, £25 each; 12-Piece Black & Off-White Edge Bon Apetit Dinner Set, £120, Rockett St George

For gothic glam tableware, these black plates teamed with black stemmed wine glasses; styled with Wednesday Addams-inspired decos makes a frightening focal point… and cries out for devilish dishes and wicked wines. An added bonus, the stoneware plates have ‘bon appetit’ inscripted in the centre.

8. Kingdom Keepers – Ravens Lampshade, from £65, Mountain & Molehill

For a striking lampshade, this monochrome design with gold crown and pair of ravens casts a haunting glow – setting the tone for atmospheric soirées.

9. Skeleton Shaped Cushion, £12; Black Web Embellished Cushion, £15; Black Dancing Skeleton Cushion, £10, (far right); Black & White Shaped Pumpkin Cushion, £12, Matalan

These creepy scatter cushions with skeletons and embellished spider web deserve a place on your sofa… style with a black and white pumpkin cushion for maximum impact.

Landmark Renters’ Rights Act Becomes Law

Key Measures

10 ways to style winter berry shades in the home

3 new Mary Berry recipes to make this autumn

Fragrant chicken traybake

Skate wing with caper sauce and samphire

Carrot cake with frosting

‘They play the game beautifully’: Claudia Winkleman on the The Celebrity Traitors

7 things to consider when downsizing later in life

Don’t rush into a decision and make sure you do your research. As we get older, it’s common to start rethinking where and how we live – and for many, that means considering a move to a smaller, more manageable home.

9 ways to deck out your haunted house

After-dark decor to crown fright night celebrations and spooky soirées. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

Sales

Lettings

Estate Agents

Testimonials

Key Measures

Fragrant chicken traybake

Skate wing with caper sauce and samphire

Carrot cake with frosting

Don’t rush into a decision and make sure you do your research. As we get older, it’s common to start rethinking where and how we live – and for many, that means considering a move to a smaller, more manageable home.

After-dark decor to crown fright night celebrations and spooky soirées. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

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