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Budget Insights For Landlords & Homeowners

November 28, 2025November 28, 2025 by John Holden

This Autumn Budget was like no other, because the leaky lead up to it had a negative impact on the property market and the wider economy. So much uncertainty was generated in recent months and many people simply shut down and did nothing. So the Budget day is over and people can now plan their property moves and investments with the knowledge of what’s to come as a result if this Budget.

There were no rabbits pulled out of the hat and the only surprise was that the government’s financial position is nowhere near as bad as had been suggested in the run-up.

Property & Taxes

Landlords were further impacted if their investment property is held by them as an individual as opposed to a limited company.

From April 2027, property income (e.g. rents), as well as savings and dividend income, will be taxed 2 percentage points higher than today. That brings property income tax bands to 22%, 42% and 47%.

The Budget stops short of replacing or abolishing Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). Stamp duty remains in place for now, despite earlier speculation.

The so called “mansion tax” has now arrived and it’s worth remembering that Labour previously voiced this intent back in 2019 and in part it impacted on them losing that General Election. In early 2025 rumours abounded about a forthcoming “mansion tax” and for the remainder of this year the top end of the market has been on hold.

Now we know that for owners of high-value homes, a new “mansion tax” — formally a high-value council tax surcharge — was confirmed. From April 2028, properties valued at £2 million and above will face an annual surcharge.

The tax will differ depending on the value of a property and will be determined by the following four bands.

£2 million to £2.5 million– You will pay £2,500.

£2.5 million to £3.5 million– You will pay £3,500.

£3.5 million to £5 million – You will pay £5,000.

More than £5 million – You will pay £7,500.

This will be an annual tax and the charge will be imposed on top of the existing council tax. The money will go to the Treasury rather than the local authority.

What It Means For The Property Market & Landlords / Tenants

The decision not to scrap stamp duty means there is no relief for home buyers and no increased incentives to move or buy.

For landlords, higher taxation on rental income (from 2027) will erode net returns. But one thing is for certain, this added cost will be passed on to Tenants so this move alongside the Renters Right Act earlier this year will cost Tenants more for their rented homes.

There is much speculation about the new “mansion tax” suppressing demand at the very top end of the market, but we don’t believe this will be the outcome.

The buyer demand will now return because the level of the “mansion tax” is known and whilst it might keep a lid on prices in this sector, at least transaction numbers will return.

The tax isn’t coming in until 2028 and by then another General Election will be on the horizon so disgruntled home owners wary of property taxes in general will take their discontent out at the ballot box.

Summary

From a property perspective across all price sectors, the Budget has little or no impact and any “bounce back” is likely to be moderate, not a dramatic boom. The weight of new taxes and limited reforms means we’re more likely to see steady growth and cautious investor re-entry rather than a surge in building or housing-led economic growth.

In other word, a steady business as normal outlook for the short to medium term.

Overall, expect steady demand property sales and rentals, modest rental growth in strong micro-markets, and continued importance of quality and location.

Time To Start House Hunting?

A good place to start your 2026 house move could be to check out out latest property magazine, which came out today.

This 122 page property & lifestyle magazine is full for properties for sale from £295,000 to £2.0m., a selection of properties to rent and some engaging editorial such as cookery tips for Christmas from Rick Stein and Dr Clare Mosley.

To enjoy a full read of our digital magazine In The Country & Town just click the image below.

‘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/

Due To The Rental Market Soon

August 29, 2025August 20, 2025 by John Holden

This is a preview of a wonderful country house on the outskirts of Hartley Wintney.

The property is due to the market soon at an anticipated guide of £4,000 p.c.m. rental (plus additional fees).

The views from the rear of the property are fantastic as you can see from our preview video.

The location is highly sought after and we recommend an early viewing, so please telephone out lettings team on 01252 622550.

Estimated rental guide £4,000 p.c.m. and additional fees will apply including holding deposit £923 and
security deposit £4615

This is a substantial detached period home with a wealth of character offering flexible accommodation and far reaching views of surrounding countryside

The gated entrance leads to a gravelled driveway offering ample parking and access to 2 garages (please note the 3rd garage and annexe above are not included in any tenancy)

The entry hall offers a good size coat/boot cupboard and leads into a formal entry area/sitting room with wood burning stove. This leads to a further sitting room with feature fire and French doors overlooking the gardens.

There are wooden steps leading to a study area and the eat in country style kitchen is found beyond and offers an oil fuelled range stove, gas hob, electric oven and under counter fridge. There is also access to a cellar.

To the rear of the kitchen there is a utility room with space for a washing machine, tumble dryer and fridge/freezer. Beyond this there is a shower room and good size family room with door to the rear patio and gardens.

Upstairs the property benefits from 4 good sized bedrooms and has been re-carpeted. Bedroom 2 benefits from an en-suite shower room, fitted wardrobes and access to the main bedroom. There is also a family bathroom with shower over the bath.

Outside there are formal gardens to the side and rear, offering views as they slope down towards adjacent fields.

The property is unfurnished and available now.

Energy Efficiency rating – E /Council tax Band – G / Tenancy Length – 12 months

ADDITIONAL CHARGES

Security deposit – £4,615.00 (5 weeks rent), Holding deposit – £923.00 (equivalent to 1 weeks rent – Holding deposit deducted from 1st months’ rent due on successful completion of a tenancy, but non-refundable should a Tenant withhold/provide misleading information that may affect their application, or if they withdraw)

Further Tenant fee information available on; mccarthyholden.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tenant-fees-new-tenancies.pdf

McCarthy Holden is a member of the Propertymark client money protection scheme, and also a member of The Property Ombudsman which is a redress scheme.

TELEPHONE 01252 622550 TO ARRANGE A VIEWING.

How to fast-track your home extension

August 20, 2025 by John Holden

If you’re in your forever home, planning your dream extension for indoor outdoor living, or considering a loft conversion, this could be the perfect time to make it happen.

Thanks to recent changes to planning rules, many homeowners can now extend their homes more quickly – often without needing full planning permission at all.

These updates to permitted development rights (or PD rights) make it simpler to carry out common improvements, says Simon Rix, planning expert for the Homebuilding & Renovation Show and director of Planix.UK Planning Consultants, provided you follow a few key rules.

To put you on the front foot, Rix explains what you need to know – and how to avoid common pitfalls which can slow things down…

What’s changed in the planning system?

In recent years, the government has gradually expanded what’s allowed under permitted development, outlines Rix. “This means you can carry out certain types of building work without needing full planning permission – cutting down on paperwork, delays, and thus costs.”

Key recent changes include…

“More generous size limits for single-storey rear extensions – up to six metres for a semi-detached home or eight metres for detached, under the neighbour consultation scheme,” explains Rix.

“Loft conversions with rear dormers are now allowed in most cases, up to 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres for detached/semi-detached homes.

“Outbuildings and garden rooms, such as offices or gyms, can be built without planning if they meet height and use restrictions.”

He says side extensions are also allowed in many cases, as long as they’re single-storey and modest in scale.

However, not every home qualifies. “If your property is listed, in a conservation area, or subject to past restrictions, permitted development may not apply,” Rix warns.

What you can do without full permission

If your home benefits from permitted development rights, you may be able to do the following…

“Build a single-storey rear extension of up to three metres deep (four metres for detached homes) under standard PD, or up to six to eight metres under the larger extension scheme,” he explains.

“Convert your loft into a bedroom or home office, including dormer windows to the rear roof slope.

“Add a garden room or office, as long as it’s single-storey, used for incidental purposes (not a separate residence), and doesn’t take up more than half your garden.”

Rix continues: “Create a side extension that’s single-storey and no more than half the width of the original house.”

As he points out, all of this must be done within certain height, volume, and boundary rules. “So it’s still important to double-check the technical details before you start building.”

How to fast-track your project

Even though you may not need full planning permission, it’s still essential to follow the correct process to keep things smooth…

Confirm your PD rights: “Check whether any previous planning permissions or local restrictions remove your rights to extend under PD,” advises Rix. “This can be done via your local council’s planning portal or with professional help.”

Submit a lawful development certificate (LDC): “This isn’t mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended,” underlines Rix. “It’s a formal confirmation that your plans meet PD rules, and it’s useful when selling your home or dealing with mortgage lenders.”

Use the neighbour consultation scheme: “For rear extensions that exceed three metres (terraced/semi) or four metres (detached), you’ll need to notify neighbours and submit basic plans for prior approval,” says Rix. “This is quicker than full planning, and handled by the council in 42 days if there are no objections.”

Get the measurements right: “A few centimetres over the limit can mean your build doesn’t qualify,” he warns. “Work from accurate plans and, if possible, get a professional to check everything before you begin.”

Consider the build itself: “Even if planning is easier, you’ll still need to comply with building regulations,” explains Rix. “That means proper insulation, fire safety, structural checks, and potentially drainage and ventilation considerations.”

Less red tape, but still rules

The recent changes to PD rights make home extensions more accessible than ever, highlights Rix, but says that doesn’t mean anything goes…

“You still need to work within clear rules, and mistakes can be costly.

“The good news? With a bit of planning upfront, you can avoid unnecessary delays and unlock valuable new space at home,” says Rix. Whether that’s for family life, working from home, or just more room to breathe.”

For more info visit homebuildingshow.co.uk

Talk To An Estate Agent

If you are planning an extension and your purchased your property form McCarthy Holden, why not talk to them about your extension / improvement ideas and they will give you insights into what works and any potential enhanced property value.

BBC Expose Questionable Estate Agency Practices

July 15, 2025 by John Holden

A wake-up call for anyone selling their home – Congratulations to the BBC for their recent Panorama investigation, which lifts the lid on how some corporate estate agencies appear to operate—putting profits before people.

The undercover report revealed troubling practices, including a recorded conversation in which an estate agency manager admits to prioritising buyers who use the agency’s in-house mortgage broker. Why? Because it earns them additional fees. In doing so, they compromise the interests of the very clients they’re meant to represent: the sellers.

Why This Matters

When you appoint an estate agent, you expect them to act in your best interest—not use your sale as a tool to cross-sell other services for their own gain. Sadly, the Panorama programme highlights that this isn’t always the case.
You can watch the full episode here:

🎥 Panorama: Undercover Estate Agent

Clients Should Experience A Different Approach

At McCarthy Holden, this type of behaviour would never be tolerated. As a proudly independent, family-run business, our priority is always our clients. We focus on agreeing sales with buyers who are ready to proceed—and negotiating the best possible price for you.

Our continued success is built on trust, transparency, and results. That’s why so many of our clients return to us time and again—and recommend us to others.

Corporate vs. independent: what’s the real difference?

Larger corporate estate agencies, by necessity, may often prioritise shareholder returns and balance sheets. And, as the BBC investigation shows, that financial pressure can sometimes take precedence over client needs.

As an independent agency, we answer only to you—our clients—and our reputation in the local community is everything. We don’t just want to sell your home; we want to do it the right way.

Thinking of selling?

At McCarthy Holden we do not have any ‘in house’ mortgage brokers or conveyancers and we concentrate on delivering traditional estate agency services focused on selling or letting a client’s property. Get in touch with our team and experience the difference an independent, customer-focused agency can make.

Buy To Let – Squeeze Or Opportunity For Landlords?

June 20, 2025 by John Holden

Let’s start with the bad news, then dig a little deeper to uncover what’s really happening beyond the usual headlines

Following a wave of Government policy changes and rising costs, the buy‑to‑let segment is feeling the pinch. In addition Stamp duty on second homes has jumped and upcoming EPC C energy efficiency standards (effective by 2030, possibly earlier in 2028), will create extra costs for a Landlord in some cases.

Yet, the market is far from collapsing. Since April 2025, UK rents have continued to climb, albeit at a slower pace—up roughly 7 % year-on-year UK wide.

Some small-scale or accidental landlords are exiting the sector, squeezed by cost, regulation, and compliance pressures—yet returns remain buoyant in yield-rich regions, supported by persistent tenant demand and potential lower borrowing costs.

The Shift

In many cases however, these changes are prompting landlords—especially higher-rate taxpayers—to shift into company status. That shift is backed up with some interesting facts at Companies House.

Over 400,000 companies registered solely to hold BTL properties as of February 2025

In 2024 alone, about 61,500 new limited company BTL businesses were founded — a 23% rise from 2023

No doubt landlords shifting to a company status are influenced by Limited companies offering full deduction of mortgage interest, paying corporation tax on profits, and enjoying more flexible expense claims.

It is estimated that there is about 680,000 buy-to-let properties held in a limited company structure across England and Wales, with the number rising every year. Not all of them are new rental properties – many are being moved from personal names into a limited company owned by the same landlord

In summary, the growth in BTL companies is real and substantial. Driven by tax changes, shifting investor behaviour, strong mortgage volumes, and regional yield opportunities, the UK’s BTL sector has undergone rapid corporatisation. While momentum may ease if costs rise (e.g. stamp duty hikes), current indicators suggest the trend will continue for professional landlords.

For insights into the residential rental market and advice from professional property consultant contact our lettings department by phoning 01252 622550.

A Landlord Focused Agency

At McCarthy Holden our landlords are regarded as one in a million, perhaps unlike in the very large corporate agents where a Landlord could easily become just one in a million.

Because our Landlords are looked after by real people who live and work locally, people who you can speak to on the phone and people who are taking the responsibility of looking after your property, our Landlords experience the difference and benefits.

Our professional team are always available by phone or email and guess what, there are no online bots or automated telephone systems to get in the way of good communication.

So if you are a Landlord who wants one to one reliable service, telephone 01252 622550 for a free property valuation and advice about renting property.

8 ways to weave summer blooms into your space

May 15, 2025 by John Holden

A beautiful bouquet is one of life’s pleasures… and embellishing your home with florals, botanicals and ditsy prints is an imaginary way to reinvent your existing scheme.

Whether it’s through soft furnishings, romantic accents or pretty pottery, think a timeless, mood-enhancing aesthetic inspired by a secret garden… without the need for a patch of green grass.

To get the look, these hand-picked bouquets are ready to mix and match…

1. Emma Bridgewater Garden Flowers French Bowl, £24; Garden Flowers Half Pint Mug, £25, Emma Bridgewater

With a country cottage vibe, these brilliant blooms will bring colour, texture and panache to tea parties.

2. Laura Ashley 2.8L Stovetop Kettle China Rose, £59.99, Boots

With a delightful whistling sound and designer print finish, this stovetop kettle combines function with flair.

3. Botanist’s Scroll Vivant Wallpaper, £95 per roll; Trellia Orange Wallpaper, £95 per roll, Graham & Brown

A flowery feature wall in vibrant shades of pink, purple, fuchsia and orange has dopamine décor written all over it – and is an appealing vista with character and charm. For a cohesive scheme, pair with this co-ordinating Trellia print for a grand display.

4. Ditsy Floral Seat Pad – Dusky Pink, £19.99, Rucomfybeanbags

This sweet seat pad will style up a spindle chair, or garden seating.

5. Wimbledon in Bloom Tea Towel, £14; Wimbledon in Bloom Large Mug, £19; Wimbledon in Bloom Drinks Tray, £24; Wimbledon in Bloom Apron, £26, rest of items from a selection, Shop.Wimbledon

An exciting new homeware collection themed to ‘tennis in an English Garden,’ this floral range features iconic Wimbledon motifs such as strawberries, tennis rackets and winner’s trophies, strewn with pretty petals and greenery.

6. Cornflower Pitcher Jug Vase, £16, Dibor

With peony season coming into swing and tulips teasing us with their rich hues, this vintage style vase will enhance your petal power.

7. Lucy Tiffney Floral Pencil Pleat Campion Blackout Lined Curtains, from £50 to £145; Lucy Tiffney Pink Wildflower Embroidered Cotton Cushion, £24; Lucy Tiffney Pink Floral Diamond Jute Rug, from £60 to £280, rest of items from a selection, Next

A fantastic way to make everything feel fresher is with a new set of curtains… especially a playful floral print you can have lots of fun with. Set against a neutral background, these pops of colour can be picked up with statement scatter cushions, whimsy accessories, and a colourful throw rug to spice things up.

8. Habitat Confetti Glass Reed Diffuser – Pink Jasmine & Amber, £11, Habitat

The easiest way to scent the home for summer… a decorative diffuser. Think sweetish aromas of pink jasmine with woody hints of amber, to mirror those blossom patterns and cute collections.

We’re Recruiting

March 5, 2025 by John Holden

Right now we are recruiting for personnel across residential sales and residential lettings specialities, so if you already work in estate agency or, if your are in a service based career and looking for a change, then take a look at our immediate needs and consider sending your CV to us as soon as possible.

Some of the jobs available include the following potential opportunities.

Residential Sales

Our thriving residential sales business need more people who can excel at house sales and customer service.

Job opportunities include an exciting position for a Property Consultant / Sales Negotiator / Estate Agent to join their team, with offices currently based in Fleet, Hartley Wintney and Odiham. Possible candidates include people who may be an existing estate agent or people who are looking for a career change. We want people with sales and communication skills underpinned with attributes such as work ethic and a desire to succeed. Salary will be commensurate with experience and is comprised of basic salary plus commission.

Residential Lettings

We are considering expanding our busy residential lettings business and in preparation for this we want to talk to people who already work in the residential lettings sector. From trainees to managers we want to hear from you, especially those who are or soon to be ARLA qualified.

If you are thinking of a career move, then think about joining out lettings team.

McCarthy Holden People

As an independent, family run company, we have built our reputation based on honesty, integrity and a deep understanding of the local property market. As such, we are looking for additional team members who share our commitment to these values.

A summary of skill based and personality attributes for either residential sale s or residential lettings is as follows.

• Previous experience in estate agency is desirable, but definitely not essential.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A customer-first attitude with a strong focus on delivering high-quality service.
• A genuine interest in property and the local area.
• A full UK driving license and access to a car / your own vehicle.
• A self-motivated, proactive approach to work.

What To Do Next

If you would like to be considered for joining the McCarthy Holden team then please forward a cover letter with your application and CV as applications without this covering letter will not be considered.

Send your application to Jill Wood using her email jwood@mccarthyholden.co.uk

3 of the hottest interior design trends for the coming year

August 1, 2024 by John Holden

If you’re looking for inspiration to immerse yourself in the world of interiors, these style notes from one of the major events in the design calendar, 3 Days of Design, showcase some of the biggest influences.

The theme of this year’s event, Dare to Dream, attracted tastemakers and interior aficionados from around the globe who flocked to Copenhagen to ‘celebrate creativity’.

Daniela Venturini, Wayfair’s resident art director and trend forecaster, says: “As an interior enthusiast, I love to delve deep into the world of contemporary aesthetics and visionary craftsmanship.”

“3 Days of Design was not just an exploration of current trends, but an immersive experience that encouraged us all to dare to dream, push boundaries and see the future of design with endless possibilities.”

She says the city, the creativity and the collective spirit of the event left an indelible mark, urging us all to dream bigger and design bolder.

“Incorporate these key trends into your home, even on a budget, and you too can embrace the cutting-edge of design – and make it your own.”

So, which trends can you take away to up your interior styling?

Sculptural Futuristic

“Metals sit centre stage with mesmerising, statement-making finishes,” highlights Venturini.

“Think high-shine, mirror-polish and textured surfaces, from burnt and oxidised to patinated and brushed.”

“The tactile finish of these pieces adds an unexpected warmth to traditionally industrial elements.” She continues. “Metals like brass, bronze and copper are mainstays, while cool silver tones are also angling for the spotlight.”

Venturini’s top tips…

“Keep an eye out for budget-friendly metallic accessories. Look for vases, candle holders or picture frames with oxidised or brushed finishes, effortlessly incorporating tactile richness into any space, without breaking the bank.”

If you love a DIY project, she says to consider adding a patina finish to inexpensive metal furnishings. “Online tutorials can guide you on how to achieve a burnt or oxidised effect on bulkier items like chairs and side tables.”

Luxury Nostalgia

As consumers seek more meaningful items with a genuine narrative, handcrafted details and heritage-driven designs are gaining popularity, notes Venturini.

“What we see, not only in Copenhagen, but also in trend-led hotels and on Pinterest, is a smorgasbord of retro and vintage-inspired pieces that shine a light on nostalgia, while maintaining current-day individuality,” she underlines.

“Rich materials from corduroy, boucle and walnut to burled wood, smoked glass, steel and leather graced numerous installations, blending traditional and modern effortlessly.”

Venturini’s top tips…

For vintage-inspired, retro pieces, she says to search for tactile fabrics, richly upholstered furniture, walnut-finish tables or rustic wood décor.

“Don’t underestimate the power of second-hand… find pre-loved pieces that can be upcycled with simple DIY projects, such as reupholstering a chair or refinishing a coffee table.”

Fun Fusion Digitopia

“Digitopia saw the meticulous merging of technology and creativity, creating surreal, transformative designs that challenged convention,” explains Venturini.

“Picture brightly coloured yet monochrome products, and geometric offerings presented in unconventional forms – and you get the idea.”

“These imaginative products were truly expressive, embodying idealised escapism, fun and abundance, promoting optimism, creativity and self-expression.

“Who wouldn’t want a bit of that?”

Venturini’s top tips…

She suggests introducing playful, vibrant accessories such as accent pillows, rugs or wall art, along with bold patterns and colours to lift the mood of any room.

“Incorporate smart home products that blend style and technology, such as stylish smart light fixtures or interactive décor pieces.” And there you have it.

Latest Property Magazine & Market Insights

February 19, 2024 by John Holden

We are please to create our latest edition of In The Country & Town, providing an opportunity to provide our readers with market insights and also showcase some great properties to buy or to rent for those starting their 2024 property search this month.

In January and early February 2024 the house market has moved quickly with positive buyer activity turning into a healthy amount of new property sales, confirming in our view that house buyers believe that the best in house buying opportunities will be during the first six months of 2024.

For market insight and our advice to buyers and sellers, just click on the image below.

There are many fine properties to see within the pages of our magazine and you will see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders, including a preview of the property shown below which is not yet on the open market. If you click on the image you will see more details and a video tour embedded in the magazine.

And here is another magazine preview exclusive, Situated within the sought after village of Herriard.

This exquisite three bedroom detached family home built in 2020 by Forays Homes, is located within an exclusive development of just three detached properties.

Benefits to this property include a detached double garage with ample driveway parking, air source heat pump, dressing room, underfloor heating, and wonderful countryside views.

Click on them image below for more details.

Why not indulge in looking at our 90 pages magazine and see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders.

We also hope you will enjoy reading some of the editorial features, including recipes from new chef Big Zuu, Caroline Quentin on her gardening experience, Paloma Faith: Becoming a mum, why going plant-based could transform your health, Michael Sheen on why he hopes The Way ‘gives voice’ to Port Talbot, TV & Film on One Love star Kingsley, how to renovate your kitchen sustainably, and motoring.

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Property & Taxes

What It Means For The Property Market & Landlords / Tenants

Summary

Time To Start House Hunting?

What’s changed in the planning system?

What you can do without full permission

How to fast-track your project

Less red tape, but still rules

Talk To An Estate Agent

Why This Matters

Clients Should Experience A Different Approach

Corporate vs. independent: what’s the real difference?

Thinking of selling?

The Shift

A Landlord Focused Agency

Residential Sales

Residential Lettings

McCarthy Holden People

What To Do Next

Find a Property

When is your preferred availability? (TICK ALL THAT APPLY)