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REVIEW A review of the property market in 2015 Seasonal cooking on the Aga with Suffolk chef Peter Harrison From cartsheds to elegant Norfolk retreats Issue Two 201516 Bedfords Review Issue Two2 Bedfords Review Issue Two 3 Welcome A perfect case in point recently was made by one of our negotiators who had a gut instinct that a certain property was going to be perfect for a family moving to the area. On paper the prospective viewer discounted the house and the surrounding areas. But following a lengthy discussion with the sales staff about the facilities the walks and the local bi-weekly farmers market an appointment was booked in. At the viewing a deal was agreed there and then and praise showered over the negotiator for finding them their dream home. So looking ahead to our 50th year in business we will continue to embrace the technology which enables us to reach a global market but we are still minded to keep on doing what we do best engaging with real people. Electronic or otherwise the hot box only produces buyers with the help of a real-life negotiator. Emmerson Dutton Partner Bury St Edmunds office L ooking back to when I first joined Bedfords in the winter of 2004 I recall the time when David Bedford took me to one side and offered some sound advice. A really good agent will sell a house that is not on the market to someone who didnt know they wanted to buy it Unbeknown to either of us during this informal chat at his home office we would both have a very similar conversation some 12 years later as we begin planning the 50th anniversary celebrations in 2016. The key difference now is the role of the agent. As I work on the details for a new Bedfords website being unveiled next year Im reminded of those agents who exist only online and unlike us have not had a high-street presence for almost half a century. The downside for them is simply that they never get the opportunity to know their buyers and sellers. My colleagues and I spend a lot of time with people. This can be over a cup of tea whilst we discuss the best way to market their house or on the way to a viewing with a couple moving up from London and chatting about the best place to get a coffee and a slice of cake. Aside from being property professionals we very much consider ourselves one of the locals knowing the best places to visit eat walk and shop all form part of the puzzle that is moving house. For 50 years Bedfords have operated throughout Norfolk and Suffolk with offices strategically placed in the finest locations. Aldeburgh 145 High Street Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AN T. 01728 454 505 E. aldbedfords.co.uk Burnham Market The Bower House Market Place Burnham Market Kings Lynn Norfolk PE31 8HF T. 01328 730 500 E. bmktbedfords.co.uk Bury St Edmunds 15 Guildhall Street Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP33 1QD T. 01284 769 999 E. bsebedfords.co.uk Woodbridge 28 Market Hill Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 4LU T. 01394 779 444 E. woodbridgebedfords.co.uk Mayfair Office Cashel House 15 Thayer Street London W1U 3JT T. 0870 112 7099 E. infomayfairoffice.co.uk Known for selling some of the finest houses in East Anglia 45 News Community fundraising news 612 Property Comment property news The revival of Sharrington Hall Notable properties Four favourites we sold in 2015 1314 Exceptional people Peter Harrison chef Contents www.bedfords.co.uk Bedfords1966 ONE OF THE LOCALS Emmerson Dutton Looking ahead to our 50th year we continue to embrace technology but are minded to keep doing what we do best engaging with real people Bedfords Review Issue Two4 News Norfolk by Design An exhibition showcasing Norfolk- based artists and design-makers was held in September at West Lexham in Norfolk and Bedfords were delighted to be one of the sponsors. Veronica Sekules a director at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts helped curate the show which featured work from over 25 artists and included sculpture paintings furniture photography porcelain textiles and woodwork all of an exceptional standard. Norfolk is and always has been full of immensely creative residents but often working in complete isolation Norfolk By Design unites them and the exhibition was an opportunity to provide a collective showcase. The exhibition launched with a party at which it was a pleasure to see friends and former clients and the cocktail bar ensured a jolly time was had by all www.norfolk-by-design.com Above The exhibition with a diverse range of work on show was launched with a well-attended party The Bedfords-sponsored wolf by sculptor Steve Manning COMMUNITY BURNHAM MARKET OFFICE This year we were delighted to be part of Bury St Edmunds Wolf Trail where local artists created 26 individual wolf sculptures and placed them throughout the town for the general public to enjoy throughout the summer and autumn. This unique event was held to celebrate the legend of St Edmunds Wolf from life-sized wolves made from a variety of materials such as topiary metal wood and willow to wolves on a stained glass window or displayed on walls the artistic animals were hidden in various places until St Edmunds Day on 20th November. The Bedfords-sponsored wolf was created by sculptor Steve Manning who created stunning pieces of art for many top names this year including HRH Prince Charles at the gardens of Highgrove projects for Wimbledon and Nottingham tennis events pieces for a film set by Fox productions UK and not forgetting his beautiful wolf sculpture placed within the Norman Tower. The pieces were auctioned at a Charity Ball on the 20th November. Were going on a wolf hunt BURY ST EDMUNDS OFFICE Bedfords Review Issue Two 5 News AdrianRawlinson Above The postcards included a painting by Grayson Perry Right Copdock Hall owner Ian Evans with Paddington ROSANNA ST CLAIR ROBERTS Rosanna recently joined the Bury Office and has impressed us with her drive and passion for the property market. Having been educated at the Rugby Co-Ed Boarding School Rosanna sought work experience in estate agency in a prime-market London firm whilst also campaigning with Barack Obama in Washington the week leading up to his election success Having superb service skills and an excellent manner we are pleased with her progress. Outside of work Rosanna enjoys living in rural Suffolk with her family and walking her pet pig. Consultant David Bedford who founded the business in 1966 is publishing his memoirs next summer. Titled Bricks Mortals the book covers his sixty years in the property world. To avoid the inevitable queues outside Waterstones please email Hilary Lynn to register for pre-launch details hilarylynnbedfords.co.uk PATRICK COOK Patrick went to school in Woodbridge at Farlingaye and subsequently Sheffield Hallam University. After graduating Patrick entered estate agency working throughout East Suffolk and has already proved himself invaluable to the team demonstrating an outstanding application of client care and a tenacious approach to making deals happen particularly with his local knowledge and circle of contacts. Patrick is planning to marry his partner Kim in August. In his spare time he is a keen footballer although admits the balance has shifted from playing to supporting and enjoys cinema and film. New talent Bricks Mortals We welcome new members to the Bedfords team WoodbridgE OFFICE Arts and flowers Since opening in Woodbridge we have become more active in local community events and sponsoring charities around the town. During the summer we were involved in several village Open Gardens in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice and donated a portion of our fees to the charity. In addition Antony Bromley Martin was delighted to sponsor Art For Action a superb and quite unique event that attracted 180 artists and celebrities including Grayson Perry Anneka Rice and Tony Hadley together with local dignitaries who each produced a postcard for an unattributed sale. The event was held at Copdock Hall a stunning Tudor barn which opened this year after a 3-year renovation project and raised money in aid of Action Medical Research who specialise in ground-breaking medical research for children. Antony is currently looking at sponsorship opportunities for 2016 and would be delighted to hear from any local charities and events around the Woodbridge area to work with. antonybedfords.co.uk www.action.org.uk Bedfords Review Issue Two6 Property Bedfords Review Issue Two6 Our job is to secure editorial content in the media much sought after because editorial is why people buy newspapers and magazines in the first place. Editorial is what they tend to believe like and trust. Furthermore and unlike advertising editorial is seen as having third-party endorsement the approval of the journalist or media outlet in question. This sort of sanction means PR is considered to be worth around 10 times the value of advertising. So we scour the properties on our books for PR opportunities tirelessly trying to track down aspects or qualities which might catch a journalists eye and therefore be deemed worthy of editorial coverage. In 2015 we secured editorial with an advertising value of over 180000. Admittedly the process is an art rather than a science and nothing is ever guaranteed. But its an art which can reap dramatic dividends by substantially increasing the number of people who are aware that a property is on the market. This is the value that PR can provide. In short its the coverage that money cant buy. Eric Dixon PR Department COMMENT The coverage that money cant buy Advertising you pay for PR you pray for In 2015 we secured editorial with an advertising value of over 180000 for 1million or more during the first half of 2015 over the same period 2014. Perhaps it is not surprising that buyers have baulked at the sight of their tax bills. However we can be sure that the new rates are here to stay. In fact Mr Osborne announced in Novembers Autumn Statement that he intends to implement a further 3 levy on top of the existing rate of Stamp Duty for the purchase of buy-to-lets and second homes from April 2016. However it is probably true to say that most people will not put their plans on hold indefinitely even if the incentive is to avoid a new tax regime Therefore slowly but surely activity levels at the top of the market will return to normal as buyers accept the new reality. Those buying as an investment or for a second home will begrudgingly accept the extra tax burden. After 50 years in the business David Bedford has seen most things before and he commented pithily to me on the day the new rates were announced It may take the froth off things for the next year but dont worry you dont buy a Bentley if you cant afford to fill the tank. Ben Marchbank Partner Burnham Market office If we cast our minds back to December 2014 Chancellor George Osborne announced a fundamental reform of Stamp Duty. Henceforth rates would entail no tax on house purchases up to the value of 125000 a 2 tax on purchases between that and 250000 5 in the band up to 925000 10 between that and 1.5m and 12 beyond that. Osborne declared that this would cut the rate of tax for 98 of purchases and it was hailed as a masterstroke by opponents of Labours mooted mansion tax which was quietly booted into the long grass as a result. The RICS predicted a bumper 2015 suggesting the number of sales in the UK could increase by 5. Whilst the volume of sales has not increased as anticipated the Land Registry recorded 909000 transactions for the period Jan Sept 2015 as opposed to 927000 between Jan Sept 2014 the alteration to Stamp Duty rates seems to have fuelled activity across most sectors of the market our offices have all performed well during 2015 and demand for property remains strong. Of late though it has been suggested that the increased rates of Stamp Duty now payable on transactions over 1million have led to a slow-down at the top of the market London agents have reported a lull in activity whilst research published by Lloyds Bank suggested 11 fewer homes were sold A review of the property market in 2015 George Osbornes stamp collection You dont buy a Bentley if you cant afford to fill the tank Bedfords Review Issue Two 7 Property We are pleased to announce that we will be handling the sale of 14 individual modern homes situated on the edge of the medieval grid within the heart of Bury St Edmunds. This high-quality development is situated behind some beautiful Georgian buildings near the Theatre Royal and has already created considerable local interest. Whilst prices havent been released as yet Highland Developments are presently fine-tuning the current plans in order to provide the best layout and accommodation which will be both 3 and 4 bedroom properties all with allocated parking some with garaging. We are planning to host a presentation during the early part of 2016 and will be on hand to discuss the plans accommodation and prices together with the process of reservation. To register your interest in the development please contact the sales team at our Bury St Edmunds office on 01284 769 999. Othersites required forconsultation on land and planning please contact Paul Bedford at paulbedfordbedfords.co.uk Westgate Street development details released In certain parts of Norfolk and Suffolk the market is more seasonal than elsewhere as any local resident knows the coastal villages and beaches that are thronged with holiday-makers during the warmer months become quieter and often the better for it out of season. In the property market this can create a difficulty. A house that goes on the market in November may well fail to attract serious interest before the following spring by which time it will have been listed online for five months and may well have received thousands of hits. Clearly there is a real danger of the house looking stale and more importantly buyers may well feel justified in making a lower offer to reflect the fact that the house has been on the market for some months already. To counter this we offer clients an alternative whereby their house is offered to active buyers registered on our database along with those looking at similar properties without any other marketing exposure. This way if the house does not find a buyer during the quieter season we are able to launch it online and in the press when activity levels pick up without any disadvantage to the seller. If you are interested in discussing how a discreet approach might benefit you or if you want to ensure you know about every house that is available please call us. Michael Bedford Partner Aldeburgh office From under the counter Bedfords secret houses New prime town location in Bury St Edmunds NEWS Images Artists impressions of the development indicate individual character with attractive facades blending red-brick and rendered elevations Bedfords Review Issue Two8 Property A fter years of benign neglect all buildings were almost at risk and in dire need of attention. It took nearly two years with a crack team of builders before the Hall was restored and revived for 21st-century living and the four Cartshed Cottages were ready for their first holiday guests. Set in the grounds of the Hall near Holt and just a few miles from the coast the award-winning 1- or 2-bedroom holiday cottages have been lovingly renovated by Katie an interior designer in her own right. Seal Samphire Sky and Shell are inspired by elements of North Norfolk vintage and contemporary furniture oak floors natural materials and muted colours create a laid-back vibe that echoes the rustic beauty of the local environment. Add hand-built kitchens roll-top baths walk-in showers and huge fireplaces Above Shell kitchen When18 months after first viewing Stephen and Katie King finally collected the keys to Sharrington Hall a Grade II listed Jacobean manor house with four cottages barn and outbuildings in North Norfolk from our Burnham Market office in 2010 they realised the hard work was only just beginning. SHARRINGTON HALL Essence of Norfolk Bedfords Review Issue Two 9 Property with log-burners and Cartshed Cottages offers a retreat in the heart of North Norfolk that is very relaxing very stylish and very spoiling. Formore information visit www.sharringtonhall.com or call Stephen and Katie on 01263 478 278 or07725 881 511 Clockwise from top left Sharrington Hall Seal bedroom Sky sitting room Cartshed Cottages garden Bedfords Review Issue Two10 Property English country living amongst open farmland Just 2 miles north of the delightful and remarkably well-serviced village of Debenham Tawnys occupies an archetypal English countryside position amongst open farmland. Four reception rooms five bedrooms a barn and an annex. All in around 3.2 acres. Location Aspall Green Suffolk Notable feature Concert venue for an annual village jazz night Guide 800000 Ref WDB150157 Contact Woodbridge 01394 779 444 Four of the best on the market NOTABLE Features Superb farmhouse with 2.6 acres overlooking meadows A classic timber-framed period house offering substantial accommodation whilst situated at the foot of a no- through road. 4 reception rooms 5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms outbuildings. Location Wyverstone Suffolk Notable feature Contemporary oak-framed garden room Guide 735000 Ref BSE150046 Contact Bury St Edmunds 01284 769 999 Bedfords Review Issue Two 11 Property Substantial house in sought-after coastal village Superbly presented and with a contemporary extension giving almost 3500 square feet in total. 4 reception rooms 6 bedrooms 4 bathrooms walled garden and open cart-bay. Location Burnham Overy Staithe North Norfolk Notable feature Stunning kitchen family room Guide 1250000 Ref BUR150088 Contact Burnham Market 01328 730 500 Sustainable living close to Minsmere nature reserve An exciting development of two linked-detached passive houses in a stunning Suffolk location close to Minsmere nature reserve. Beautifully designed for a sustainable lifestyle. Each house with living accommodation on the upper floor to maximise views. Open-plan living area terrace study 3 double bedrooms boot room and utility room. 1400 square feet. Available in early 2016. Location Eastbridge Suffolk Notable feature Vaulted first- floor living accommodation with exceptional rural views Ref ALD150167 ALD150171 Contact Aldeburgh 01728 454 505 Bedfords Review Issue Two12 Property Former Rectory We have sold a number of lovely houses this year of which The Old Rectory Burnham Market was certainly one of the loveliest. A classic Georgian Grade II listed former Rectory the house was built by the Holkham Estate as a gift upon the retirement of a much-loved Chaplain. Burnham Market office Elizabethan farmhouse We have sold a wide variety of houses from seaside holiday cottages in Aldeburgh to rural manor houses further inland such as The Old Manor in Theberton. This handsome listed Manor House dating from the 1500s is a particularly appealing timber-framed family home in immaculate order. Aldeburgh office Woodland setting We sold Nether Hall at the beginning of the year and whilst we have been fortunate to handle many beautiful houses this year there is something special about this former Manor House. Fabulous woodland setting hidden away behind the church with great views over farmland beyond. A real gem. Bury St Edmunds office Historic farmhouse Having sold a wide range of properties in Woodbridge and the surrounding villages this year we were particularly pleased with one of them the memorably named Fazeboons. It attracted considerable interest and sold quickly due to its period style position separate cottage large barns and grounds of 21 acres. Woodbridge office From top right SOLD Four favourites we sold in 2015 Bedfords Review Issue Two 13 Norfolk and Suffolk boast many artists and artisans drawn by a unique combination of transformational landscapes natural bounty and enviable tranquility. In the first of a regular series we meet one of these exceptional people chef Peter Harrison who is renowned both in the region and beyond for his irresistible creative cooking. Chef PETER HARRISON Exceptional People TEXT BY FRANCES HOPEWELL-SMITH. PHOTOGRAPHS BY NICK ILOTT Bedfords Review Issue Two14 Exceptional People This page and previous Peter looking very much at home with the trusty Aga prepares his sensational dishes N orfolk and Suffolk are famed for their many and varied food producers and Peter Harrison takes a special pride in sourcing locally. Theres so much to choose from here he says. As well as all the fantastic food to buy I find things in hedges and fields too like mushrooms and herbs which make the most marvellous ingredients all for free. Although a Suffolk man now Peter spent his younger years in France and London Sonnys in Barnes and Alistair Little honing his culinary skills. When his children were born he moved to Suffolk and opened his own restaurant. In spite of its success the chef-proprietor demands proved untenable so he branched out into exclusive supper clubs private catering a lot of weddings he says and popular masterclasses. Today and just for us Peter is making his own seasonal dishes with a host of local ingredients to show off not only his recognised ability but the tempting variety of foodstuffs in the region. We are in a typical timber-framed Suffolk long house moated and dating from the 17th century. There are beams everywhere the rustic kitchen cupboards painted a pretty blue and as with a lot of these homes the centrepiece is the trusty range. Here it is an Aga. Cooking on a range is an art which takes a while to master effectively. It requires patience a special relationship between cook and cooker and a full understanding of its heat variations and vagaries but everyone agrees its worth it. When the range is turned off you notice the chill even in summer. Peter is effortlessly competent and has things bubbling away on the Aga and cooking in it while simultaneously working on the next process. While he mixes and chops and blends he chats about his recipes. Its the most important thing to have good quality raw materials he says. The partridge comes from one of my game suppliers in Norfolk and the vegetables from the local farm shop garden. My venison is Suffolk-local too of course. And the smoked haddock the very best Ive tasted comes from Pinneys in Orford not vacuum-packed so the flavour is maximised. The herbs come from Norfolk as does this White Lady brie cheese for the pizza topping. Apart from some components which hed necessarily prepared earlier Peter has miraculously produced three perfect plates of food. Then as another use for the versatile range the pizza goes onto the floor of the hottest oven and merely ten minutes later it is out again done to perfection and just delicious. Equally at home in a huge restaurant or a country kitchen Peter says he really enjoys cooking in peoples homes. Its much more friendly he says with a grin although sometimes its tricky finding everything you need and understanding how things work. Well hes clearly got to grips with this country kitchen and seems well pleased with what hes cooked today. And with just a few crumbs of chocolate left from his endeavours we cant disagree. www.peterharrisonchef.co.uk Peters dishes Roast loin of venison and pumpkin organic spelt romanesco wild mushrooms and verjus dressing. Pizza with tomato White Lady cheese caramelised red onions black pudding Natural smoked haddock with spiced coriander lentils. Warm salad of partridge with quince baby leaves and borage flowers. Iced nougat dark chocolate and hazelnut shard with raspberry and Malbec sauce. QUEENS HOUSE THE ABBEY ages 4 - 11 DROP IN DAYS Friday 12 February Friday 11 March 9.30 am - 12 noon 01394 615041 www.woodbridge.suffolk.sch.uk Take a peek inside our world... Bedfords AD HR_Layout 1 12115 938 AM Page 1 Bedfords Review Issue Two16