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Published: Oct 21, 2020

Video Tour: Granville Park Modern luxury

Take a look at what an evening at Granville Park would be like.... Resting at one of the most coveted addresses in the North West, this is without question one of the most magnificent homes in the region. 

Take a tour with A&P | Shaw Brow, Whittle-Le-Woods

Take a tour with A&P | Shaw Brow, Whittle-Le-Woods

Take a tour of Shaw Brow, Orchard Cottage with Branch Manager Neil Leach! Gaining many admiring gazes by passers-by, this breath-taking stone-built detached residence is something out...

Gaining many admiring gazes by passers-by, this breath-taking stone-built detached residence is something out of a dream, Shaw Brow has charm from every pore of its rustic façade. We have no doubt that this outstanding home will be in extremely high demand, and we would strongly recommend an early viewing to avoid disappointment.

Take a virtual tour today with Branch Manager Neil Leach!

 

The property is situated in Whittle-le-Woods, one of the most desirable areas in the district and renowned for some of the most picturesque countryside. Despite its credentials as a peaceful haven, it is far from isolated, with an abundance of shops and amenities available within Chorley town centre, and the M61 within a short drive.

 

Discover Orchard Cottage today

 
Glimpse at life at Legh House

Glimpse at life at Legh House

Resting on a gated plot surrounded by 1.5 acres of pristine landscaped gardens, this supremely private detached residence is the perfect family home. Every detail of the 4200 sq ft interior has...

Resting on a gated plot surrounded by 1.5 acres of pristine landscaped gardens, this supremely private detached residence is the perfect family home. Every detail of the 4200 sq ft interior has been carefully considered, with impressive living areas boasting expanses of glass providing an abundance of natural light and commanding aspects over the extensive lawns and lake. 

Take a video tour now:

 

We asked the current occupant what makes Legh House such a special home

Tell us a little about you and the property

The property has fabulous mature gardens and ponds, it is in a wonderful position for easy access to Southport, Preston, Parbold and Bickerstaffe. 

The property was first constructed in the 1960’s, originally built for Lord Lilford who owns a vast amount of land in the Tarleton Area. The rumour is that he never lived in the house, and actually ended up renting it out before finally selling it.

 A very good friend of mine who was working as an apprentice mechanic, was called to the property in the mid-eighties to help the tenant at that time start his car, that tenant was Gary Lineker who was playing for Everton at the time, and had temporarily rented the property before purchasing his own.

 

Why was the property the perfect place for your family?

Our family purchased the property over 5 years ago, we made numerous renovations: from new heating as originally it was oil fired, to new rooms like en suites which have totally transformed the flow of the house. 

I think one of the most important parts of the refurbishment was extending the garage into an attached ‘Annexe’ area, which is made up of a games room, 2  bedrooms and a shower/ toilet room. 

Originally the only access to the ‘Annexe’ was to walk externally across the courtyard, so this has been a valuable change. Now our friends and relatives can sleep over in that area with complete independence and privacy from the rest of the house.

 

(Legh House - Pictured 1970 & 2020)

 

What is your favourite part of the property and why?

There are so many amazing parts of the property that it is hard to choose just one favourite! 

We love the open plan living, it allows the house to flow well and means we can access the decked patio area with ease which allows for amazing views, on both ground and first floor!

We regularly have dinner parties and outdoor parties at the house, where we invite friends and family. We have a large gazebo that extends the already large games room which allows us to enjoy both outdoor and indoor entertaining at the same time, and gives us cover from the glorious English rain that we seem to get in our summer time.

The games room is also far away enough from the lounge, conservatory and main bedrooms, that we can entertain at any time and not disturb anybody else. 

 

Does your property have any hidden or relazing spaces?

There are areas outside to the front and back that are completely private (in fact all around the property), and a bench under the willow trees to the far end of the large pond that is very relaxing, it is fabulous to sit and read there. Plus the grounds are so extensive, then you can follow the sun all day if that’s what you like.

 

What is there to love about the local area?

Within 5 minutes walking distance – We have the Legh Arms which is owned by the successful owners of the Hope Vine in Burscough, they serve fabulous food including Sunday Dinner and drinks.  Plus it has a local bar where you can get to know people who live in the area. 

In addition, there is the Village Hall, which has live sports, snooker, darts, pool and a wonderful function room.

In Rufford which is approximately 8 minutes drive or a nice 20 minutes bike ride, there are canal side cafes and pubs, but the jewel in the crown is definitely the nature reserve at Mere Sands. 

Hidden off a small tarmac road off the main road into Rufford, is an unbelievable and beautiful nature reserve, where there is parking, numerous nature paths into the woods and the lakes, all of it inhabited by wildlife from birds, to wild deer.


Find out more about Legh House Today 

October 2020 Reviews: See what our customers had to say

October 2020 Reviews: See what our customers had to say

If you would like to know what it is like to work with us, we have some stories from past customers, like Lynne who has used us multiple times over the last ten years! Watch or video in the blog....

We know that choosing the right agent can be a big decision, but we are here to make it simple. We love hearing your reviews and getting your feedback, our bespoke service revolves around you, so we are dedicated to going above and beyond to create an exemplary experience.

If you would like to know what it is like to work with us, we have some stories from past customers, like Lynne who has used us multiple times over the last ten years! Watch more below...

 
 

 

If you like to take a look at more videos, including interviews with our customers - take a look at our Youtube

 

Our reviews this week!

Congratulations to our Valuation Manager Paula, who received an amazing review this week!

 

As well as our Administration Assistant Aimee, who has been working very hard to make your brochures look amazing!

 

Our staff will be here for you throughout your journey to act with honesty, integrity, and with your best interests at heart.  

We will always work harder and smarter for you!

 

We love hearing your reviews, so why not leave us a review on Google or Facebook!

 

 

 

What you need to know about the housing market 2020

What you need to know about the housing market 2020

The last year has been an uncertain time, with many of our customers and clients confused about what estate agents may or may not be allowed to do, but don’t worry we are here to help...

The last year has been an uncertain time, with many of our customers and clients confused about what estate agents may or may not be allowed to do, but don’t worry we are here to help navigate you through the property market safely and support you with concerns and queries. 

“If 2020 has taught us anything about this industry, it is the value of a good Estate Agent and given the guidelines and restrictions we have had to work under, this has never been more prevalent.” - Managing Director, David Arnold. (More from David below)

 

Your frequently asked questions

Can I still put my house on the market?

Yes we will still be able to put your house on the market, and we are following government guidelines to keep you safe during the whole process. As of government guidelines home visits will still go ahead providing they are for the progression of the sale of your property. 

This means we will still be able to arrange a valuation, photography and a video of your property if requested/suggested. 

If at any time you need to self isolate or want to stop viewings, just call our branch and we will  assist you in rearranging your scheduled viewing/s. 

 

Can I still go and view properties? Are people still allowed to view my property?

Yes, you will still be able to put your house on the market and have viewings. 

If you are going to view a property we insist you take a look at all assets on our website and carefully consider if this property is suitable. 

Details on our website will be,

  • Written spec
  • Floor plan
  • Videos/photography
  • Location maps

If you still like the property once looking at all of our  media, then call us to make a booking.

Suggestions: You may want to secure your proof of funds, as some owners are requesting this before a viewing commences to reduce unnecessary footfall. 

Please note: If any member/s of the household are showing symptoms or self-isolating then please let us know as soon as possible and we can rearrange any viewings.

 

What will I be able to do at a viewing, are there any rules / What do I do if I'm the homeowner?

We ask that everyone wear a mask during viewings, and abide by social distancing rules. We also want to insist that no more than two people attend the initial viewing. 

We also suggest that the homeowner open all doors within the house to minimise contact.

If you are a viewer wanting to open any cupboards please discuss this with the owner or agent assisting you.

Suggestions: Bring hand sanitiser, and make sure you minimise touching surfaces. 

 

Can I come into the branch?

Instead of visiting us in branch you can telephone us to discuss anything you may need. If we feel you need to come into the branch for whatever reason, please call us first so we can arrange this to you. As per government guidelines our branch layout has changed - we have plastic shielding up, and ask you to keep socially distanced and wear a mask (Unless medically exempt).

You will of course still be able to drop keys off and pick up your new keys or send us proof of identification. 

Get in contact with your local branch

  • Ormskirk - 01695 570102
  • Chorley - 01257 241175
  • Southport - 01704 778668

 

Is the Housing market okay? Should I delay going on the market?

The housing market is looking positive at this time, with the addition of the stamp duty holiday and people looking to expand to facilitate working from home we are seeing frequent offers on our properties for a good market value. We also note that many new listings are being added to our website daily - so sign up to our email notifications to be the first to view.

If you want to learn more about what the stamp duty means - click here 

 

Can I move between tiers to view or move into a property?

The government has advised, where possible reduce the number of journeys within a tier two region.

Currently there is no ban on travelling into a tier three area, although there are warnings to “avoid” doing so unless necessary.

Although the govenrment does consider that house visits are classed as 'essential' travel when part of the property purchase and therefore allowed to go ahead, providing it is done so in a Covid-secure manner. 

 

A note from our Director David Arnold:

If 2020 has taught us anything about this industry, it is the value of a good Estate Agent and given the guidelines and restrictions we have had to work under this has never been more prevalent. 

In the last few months seven new members of staff have joined our ranks and we have taken our time to employ highly regarded professionals who can continue to provide the highest levels of customer service during these testing times. (Learn more about our staff)

I am proud to say that we have amazing people throughout the sales and support teams at Arnold & Phillips and if you have any questions relating to the local property market or how the current restrictions might affect your house move then please get in touch. 

We are all here to help.

 

If you have any questions, send us a message on our social channels, or ring your local branch.  

(Information Dated 12th October 2020)

 
What does the stamp duty holiday mean to you?

What does the stamp duty holiday mean to you?

Confused about what the stamp duty holiday may mean for you and your purchase? We are here to help breakdown what the new government incentive means and how much you could save.

UPDATE MARCH 2021 

The stamp duty holiday has been extended for three months, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced.

The tax has been suspended on the first £500,000 of all property sales in England and Northern Ireland since July.

 

 

Confused about what the stamp duty holiday may mean for you and your purchase? We are here to help breakdown what the new government incentive means and how much you could save.

In a bid to boost the property market the government have announced a temporary holiday on stamp duty on the first £500,000 of all property sales in England and Northern Ireland until March 2021 and this is already having an impact on the whole property market.

To help you understand what the stamp duty holiday means we will answer your most frequently asked questions:

How much will I save?

The Chancellor said in his statement that the stamp duty holiday would mean the average stamp duty bill would fall by £4,500 and that nearly nine out of ten people buying will pay no stamp duty at all.

This is true for anyone completing a main residence costing up to £500,000, with the properties above to be taxed on their value above that amount.

Put simply, the more expensive the property that you’re buying, the higher the stamp duty would have been – so the more you spend on your property before March 2021, the more you can save!

Why not take a look at some of our favourite £500,000 properties.

 

Ten years with Arnold & Phillips

Ten years with Arnold & Phillips

Throughout our ten years we have worked with many people who have helped us develop our craft and become a recognised estate agent in the North West. As we celebrate 10 years of trading, our...

Throughout our ten years we have worked with many people who have helped us develop our craft and become a recognised estate agent in the North West. As we celebrate 10 years of trading, our focus is on the people who made us who we are today, from office staff, photographers, to clients like Mr Paul Livesley who was the first customer to walk through our doors in 2010.

Founded in the UK in 2010, by David and Emma Arnold, Arnold & Phillips has become one of the leading property agents in the North West. The business set out to be a different kind of Estate Agency committed to putting service first and creating a unique approach with every client and their property.

From the moment the doors opened the commitment to go that extra mile for all clients and customers has enabled Arnold & Phillips to maintain a strong presence in what is a highly competitive industry as our first customer Mr Paul Livesley can attest.

Paul has used Arnold & Phillips for over ten years with seven properties, “10 years ago we put our first property on the market the day they opened and we are so glad we went with them, because that house had been with two other agents and was a pretty hard sell.

“I think from the start it has been really clear to us that we have never been taken for granted.”

After going through the process with two other agents Paul had worried about the sale of his property, but found Arnold & Phillips’ unique approach and creative problem solving integral. “We now have a strong relationship with Arnold and Phillips, and I am keen to come back from time and time again, because of the quality of what they do…”

 

David Arnold

Owner and Director David Arnold, who has enjoyed an illustrious 25 year career in the property industry said: “‘The last 10 years have been such an exciting journey, we’ve made so many friends along the way and shared many happy memories with clients that will stay with us for a lifetime like Mr Livesy.

“We are looking forward to the future with real optimism and have so many ideas for how we want to shape the business, we want to interact with more people and make it easier for people to interact with us.

“We will continue sharing in buyers and sellers property aspirations and to continue making their dreams come true.”

10 years on and Arnold & Phillips have expanded into three regional branches and never lost its commitment to you and your property.

Discover more about Arnold & Phillips, and get started on your journey today.

Have you sold your property or bought with us, let us know what you think of our service.

Read more testimonials

Relationships and homes built to last - featuring Pearson Quality Homes

Relationships and homes built to last - featuring Pearson Quality Homes

A great estate agent offers much more than nice houses. In addition to knowledge and experience, they must be at the heart of the communities they serve.

A great estate agent offers much more than nice houses. In addition to knowledge and experience, they must be at the heart of the communities they serve. That’s why, at Arnold & Phillips, we are committed to establishing a strong partnership with every business with whom we work, based on trust and understanding their individual needs. We will always work to create a lasting and valuable relationship offering customers sound advice they can consistently rely on.

Pearson Quality Homes has developed a successful partnership with Arnold and Phillips, because like ourselves, they feel strongly about delivering a first-class service which combines expertise, experience and excellent local knowledge.

Pearson Quality Homes was formed in 2018, with the aim to develop unique properties that are individually designed with character and care.

We spoke to Construction Director, Stephen Carter, who told us more about the relationship and current project Beech House (Tunley Lane, Wrightington): “We’ve worked with Arnold & Phillips on numerous projects, the last being the conversion of The Old Rectory, Rufford and now Beech House.

“With The Old Rectory, Arnold & Phillips managed to sell it at full asking price, within seven days of coming on the market.”

 

Their current project, Beech House, which is due for completion in early 2021, is carefully crafted to consider the needs of modern family living, whilst remaining sympathetic to the surrounding area.

“Beech House which is set on ¾ of an acre was designed specifically to be compatible and sympathetic to existing properties on Tunley Lane. Tunley Lane is perceived as one of the premier country lanes in Wrightington.

“The house allows you to maintain privacy, and will fit well within the countryside setting.”

Pearson Quality Home have carefully considered the rural theme both inside and out, from the type of brick to the log burner in the living area. These, and other design features, demonstrate why they have won multiple national awards from the Federation of Master Builders.

Beech House which covers an impressive 3000 square feet, is set on ¾ of an acre comprises of; Reception hallway, cloaks/WC, spacious home office, lounge, a magnificent open plan family dining kitchen and living area, boot/utility room, four double bedrooms, a dressing room/optional fifth bedroom, three en-suites and a family bathroom. There will be an attached double garage with integral access. The property also comes with a 10 year warranty from the Federation of Master Builders.

Beech House will undoubtedly be a very special property with sleek styling and handcrafted features exuding a sense of rural luxury, its use of natural materials, combined with innovative design and a commitment to quality remain true to Pearson’s founding principles and reputation for excellence.

Take a tour with A&P | Heys Lodge  as featured in Lancashire Life

Take a tour with A&P | Heys Lodge as featured in Lancashire Life

Heys Lodge which has been the subject of interest for many years after featuring in Prestigious Lancashire Life has now come to market with Arnold & Phillips. Would you like to discover what...

Heys Lodge which has been the subject of interest for many years after featuring in Prestigious Lancashire Life has now come to market with Arnold & Phillips. Would you like to discover what makes this property so breathtaking?...

Take a tour with Branch Manager Neil Leach!

 

Located in Whittle-Le-Woods Chorley, this captivating home has amazing exteriors, retaining both its rustic stonework, while being brought to life with the contemporary glass extension designed by award-winning architects, Stanton Andrews of Clitheroe.

However there is much more to this property than the well designed exteriors. Heys Lodge boasts 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 2 reception rooms, with high quality finish on all, which makes this a perfect property to set up home in.

Could you see yourself living in this dream home?

Find out more and book a viewing today

The benefits of a new build house

The benefits of a new build house

For some the chance to move straight into a perfectly packaged home is irresistible. Here are many benefits of moving into a new build home that older properties simply don’t have, and...

For some the chance to move straight into a perfectly packaged home is irresistible. Here are many benefits of moving into a new build home that older properties simply don’t have, and some new build myths that you just shouldn’t worry about.

There is nothing quite like moving into a brand new property, knowing no one else has lived in it - being the first to cosy up by the fire, take a bath or simply relax on the sofa. It’s completely yours and yours alone. If you are considering a new build or simply don’t know what their benefits are, we can help get you in the know.

Myth: New builds cannot be personalised

A new build home allows you to start with a blank canvas and little to no maintenance, plus many development companies give buyers the option to choose from a range of design choices.

Having this freedom to create your house to suit your own taste and style can be a selling point as it takes away hassle that is often associated with redecorating/renovating. If you prefer to live maintenance free, a new build could be for you.

Benefit: Builders can sometimes give you incentives

You may be able to cut some costs with the builders incentives - You could get some furnishings included.

Depending on which builder you buy your new property off, they will sometimes have a variety of incentives to help you out. So it’s worth asking if you can get anything included in your purchase, such as appliances, carpeting, blinds, or curtains.

Myth: New builds are not made to last

All new build homes are built using the latest industry specification and many developers offer warranties or insurance on the homes they create. In addition you are also protected for at least 10 years with a new build housing warranty so you can rest assured that if any structural damages do occur you can get help.

Benefit: No chain, no wait

You can also be relaxed about the sale of the property, as moving into a new property means there is no waiting for someone to move out - except the developer who is building! As there is no moving chain, getting into your new house should be less hassle and stress-free.

Benefit: You could get help from the government on some new build developments

If you buy a new build you can take advantage of the government’s Help To Buy Equity Loan scheme. Under the scheme, the government lends you up to 20% of the cost of your new build home, so you’ll only need a 5% deposit and a 75% mortgage to make up the rest. You won’t be charged interest on the government loan for the first five years of owning your home.

Benefit: Modern efficiency

Your energy bills may well be cheaper, too, given that they are usually better insulated than period homes. For the environmentally conscious buyer this can be very reassuring, as the build will use environmentally friendly materials, and include new features such as electric car charging stations, and well sourced wood and stone.

Don’t believe the myth

When it comes to deciding between a new build or an existing property there are advantages and disadvantages with both, but make sure you don’t rule out new builds straight away! You need to weigh up what is important to you, and which type of property ticks the most boxes on your ‘must-have’ list.

New build: Wybourne Gate - Could this property be for you?

 

Wybourne Gate is a luxury development of two and three bedroom houses combined with a sympathetically and masterfully restored 19th century Victorian Villa providing a further Six unique and bespoke apartments.

These properties are located prestigiously along Westcliffe Road in Birkdale, Southport. Resting comfortably and privately back from Westcliffe Road and with far reaching views out to sea. This bespoke development masterfully combines both two and three bedroom contemporary built ‘Mews’ style houses, which ingeniously utilise an inverted living design to best take advantage of the surrounding vistas and stunning modern design aesthetics.

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