Esquire Estates

August 2024 Local sporting and fitness events up-and-coming near Luton

There are plenty of sports and fitness events taking place in your area over the next few weeks

Sport is perhaps the greatest metaphor for life in many ways, and it’s also an ideal opportunity to get together with friends and family. Inspirational for a spectator, and endlessly healthy and stimulating for the participant, these physically-active events might be that extra bit of encouragement you’re looking for to keep up with your own personal fitness goals.

Yoga
From Eventbrite:
General Yoga class all welcome. Improve your posture and flexibility, reducing stress and fatigue with weekly yoga sessions.
Location:
Hancock Drive Luton LU2 7SF
Date and time:
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:30 - 19:45 BST
https://bit.ly/3WKCSbj

Kendo - The Traditional Sport of Japanese Swordsmanship (Fencing)
From Eventbrite:
Regular sessions and 5-week induction courses are available. You will need to have completed an induction course before joining the regular sessions unless you already train in kendo.
Location:
The Dunstable Centre, Court Drive Dunstable LU5 4JD
Date and time:
Tuesday, August 20 · 8:15 - 9:45pm GMT+1
https://bit.ly/4fGK29b

Unique fajita recipes for National Fajita Day

Fajitas are a versatile dish that can be customised in new and exciting ways

Honey-Lime Chicken Fajitas

• Ingredients:
o 450g chicken breasts, thinly sliced
o 2 tbsp honey
o Juice of 2 limes
o 1 tsp smoked paprika
o 1 tsp cumin
o 2 cloves garlic, minced
o 1 red pepper, sliced
o 1 yellow pepper, sliced
o 1 onion, sliced
o 2 tbsp olive oil
o Tortillas

• Method:
1. In a bowl, mix the honey, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic.
2. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions and peppers until soft.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
5. Serve with warm tortillas.

Spicy Prawn Fajitas with Avocado Crema

• Ingredients:
o 450g prawns, peeled and deveined
o 1 tsp chilli powder
o 1 tsp smoked paprika
o 1 red pepper, sliced
o 1 onion, sliced
o 2 tbsp olive oil
o 1 ripe avocado
o 2 tbsp sour cream
o Juice of 1 lime
o Tortillas

• Method:
1. Toss the prawns with chilli powder and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, then add the onions and peppers.
3. Cook until softened, then add the prawns and cook until pink.
4. For the avocado crema, blend the avocado, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth.
5. Serve the prawns with tortillas and a dollop of avocado crema.

How to bring summer into your living spaces

To create a summertime feel in your living area, make a few simple alterations that embrace the light, colours, and textures of the season

Introduce Light Colours
Replace darker cushions, throws, and carpets with lighter, brighter colours. White, pastel blues, yellows, and greens may easily transform a room into a summertime atmosphere. You may also incorporate flower or tropical prints for a colourful, seasonal look.

Maximise Natural Light
Summer is all about the sun, so let as much natural light into your home as possible. Replace heavy curtains with lighter, sheer alternatives that allow sunshine to shine through. Mirrors can also aid by reflecting light throughout the room, making it appear brighter and more spacious.

Bring in Natural Elements
Use natural materials such as wicker, rattan, and wood to create a relaxing, beachy atmosphere. Adding houseplants or fresh flowers can also add a burst of life and colour, giving the impression of a summer garden. Consider palms and succulents, which flourish in sunny, warm temperatures.

Refresh Your Scents
Use candles, diffusers, or incense in summery aromas such as lemon, lavender, or coconut. These fragrances can take you to a tropical beach or a blossoming garden, giving your house a more seasonal vibe.

Update Wall Art
Changing out artwork for pieces with summer themes—think coastal views, botanical prints, or abstract designs in bright colours—can have a big impact on the whole environment.
By emphasising light, natural features, and seasonal colours, you can effortlessly change your living space into a summer oasis.

Cool down your garden with a new awning

Garden awnings are popular for giving shade and shelter from the elements, which improves outdoor living spaces. The following are the best types of awnings typically used:

Retractable Awnings
• Manual Retractable Awnings: These awnings are operated by a hand crank and can be extended or retracted as needed. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain.
• Motorised Retractable Awnings: These are powered by an electric motor and may be controlled via a remote or switch, making them particularly useful for bigger installations. Some types have sensors that automatically retract the awning in high winds.

Fixed Awnings
• Canopy Awnings: These are permanent structures affixed to a building's exterior that provide constant shade. They are commonly used over doors or windows and can be modified in a variety of forms and sizes.
• Dutch Canopies: A sort of fixed awning with a rounded, domed shape that provides both a decorative appearance and protection from the elements.

Portable Awnings
• Pop-Up Gazebos: These are simple to assemble and disassemble, and they give temporary shade and shelter. They are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for occasions such as garden parties or barbecues.
• Umbrella Awnings: Large, free-standing umbrellas can be placed anywhere in the garden. They are adjustable and available in a variety of sizes and styles.

Cassette Awnings
• Full Cassette Awnings: When not in use, the fabric and arms fully retract into a protective shell, providing ultimate weather protection.
• Semi-Cassette Awnings: The cloth is partially contained in a casing, leaving the arms exposed. This choice strikes a compromise between protection and cost-effectiveness.
• Open Awnings: These lack a protective shell, making them more inexpensive but less weatherproof when retracted.

How the BoE base rate cut will benefit the rental market

The rental market is heavily influenced by the Bank of England's base rate, which has an impact on interest rates throughout the economy

When the base rate is low, borrowing costs fall, making it easier for landlords to get mortgages at competitive rates. This may result in an increase in property purchases for rental purposes, expanding the supply of rental units. As a result, tenants may have more options and potentially lower rents.

For landlords with existing fixed-rate mortgages, the immediate impact may be small, but those with variable-rate mortgages may see their costs rise, perhaps leading to higher rents to pay these higher expenses. Furthermore, property market stabilisation may result in more long-term investment in rental homes, benefiting both landlords and tenants.

If the base rate stays low or falls further, mortgage interest rates fall, lowering borrowing costs for landlords with variable-rate mortgages or those wishing to refinance. This could boost cash flow and profitability. Furthermore, reduced borrowing rates may encourage more people to rent rather than buy, increasing the demand for rental properties.

Experts believe the BoE's base rate drop will drive up house prices even more. Rising house prices help landlords in a variety of ways. First, it raises the value of their property portfolio, increasing their overall wealth. This can increase their financing capacity for future investments. Second, rising property values can boost rental demand, allowing landlords to raise rents. Landlords might also benefit from capital gains when they decide to sell a property. Finally, growing prices frequently imply a solid market, giving landlords more stability and the opportunity for long-term financial success.

Mortgage rate cuts could increase house prices even further

UK’s biggest lender Halifax claim that lower mortgage rates and more interest rate cuts could fuel a rise in house prices for the rest of 2024

Halifax’s projection comes after home prices rose in July following a flat few months. They described recent mortgage rate cuts as "encouraging" for first-time buyers, those going up the housing ladder, and those refinancing.

The Bank of England recently dropped interest rates to 5%, the first reduction since the pandemic began in March 2020. The Bank's interest rate determines the cost of borrowing for products such as mortgages and credit cards. Higher interest rates over the previous two and a half years have put strain on household finances, but savers' returns have improved.

Recently, the average two-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.74%, while the average five-year contract was 5.36%. The UK's largest lender reported that an average house cost £291,268 in July, up more than £2,200 from the previous month. Annual house price growth in the year ending last month was 2.3%, the highest rate since the beginning of the year.

The property market could begin to heat up after the Bank of England slashed interest rates for the first time in more than four years. A sense that interest rates are moving in the right direction would encourage many people to return to the market, increasing demand for properties and enhancing buying and selling confidence.

CALL US TODAY IF YOU WOULD LIKE A CONVERSATION AND A FREE VALUATION!

August 2024 Films and live shows near Luton

The show must go on, and there’s plenty of them to choose from in your local area

We all need entertainment in our lives from time to time, and there is plenty of it out there to provide us with just that, and that includes the theatre and live shows. Shows and films are a great way to bring families and couples together, so here are our top picks of cinema and live shows for you to visit in your local area in the near future.

FILM: It Ends with Us
Adapted from Colleen Hoover's novel, Lily overcomes a difficult background to start a new life. An accidental meeting with a neurosurgeon creates a connection, but Lily starts to notice aspects of him that remind her of her parents' relationship.
UK release date: 9th August
Address of your local cinema: The White House, Bridge St, Luton LU1 2NB
https://bit.ly/41qkark

SHOW: 21st Century Tennessee
From The Gordon Craig Theatre site:
The ultimate must-see modern day country show, combining all your favourite contemporary artists and hits into one phenomenal live show!
Fri 20 Sep 2024 19:30
The Gordon Craig Theatre
Location: Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 1LZ
https://bit.ly/3Ar6p1X

Celebrating the finale of the Paris Olympics at home

Celebrating the conclusion of the Paris Olympics at home can be an exciting and unforgettable event

1. Themed Decorations
Parisian Flair: Decorate your home with Paris-themed decorations such as Eiffel Tower replicas, French flags, and blue, white, and red streamers.
Olympic Symbols: Use Olympic rings, torches, and athlete cutouts to bring the spirit of the games into your home.

2. Food and Drinks
French Cuisine: Prepare or order French dishes like croissants, baguettes, cheese platters, crepes, and ratatouille.
Themed Snacks: Create Olympic-themed snacks such as ring-shaped cookies or fruit platters arranged in the Olympic ring colours.
Beverages: Serve French wine, champagne, or themed mocktails for a festive touch.

3. Dress Code
Athletic Wear: Encourage guests to wear sports attire or outfits representing their favourite Olympic sports.
National Pride: Dress in the colours of your favourite country or in French-themed clothing to celebrate the host nation.

4. Activities and Games
Mini Olympics: Host fun mini-games and competitions like sack races, egg and spoon races, or a trivia quiz about the Olympics.
Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with props related to the Olympics and Paris for guests to take memorable pictures.

5. Viewing Party
Big Screen: Watch the closing ceremony on a big screen or projector for an immersive experience.
Commentary: Share interesting facts and stories about the athletes and events that happened during the Olympics.

6. Music and Entertainment
French Music: Play a playlist of French music or Olympic-themed songs to keep the atmosphere lively.
Highlight Reel: Create a highlight reel of the best moments from the Olympics to watch and reminisce.

7. Memorabilia and Souvenirs
DIY Medals: Give out DIY medals or certificates for participation in your mini-games.
Keepsakes: Provide small souvenirs like miniature Olympic torches or flags for guests to take home.

How to enjoy a cooler night’s sleep

Having a cool and comfy bed at night can considerably enhance sleep quality, especially in the hot months

1. Breathable Bedding
Cotton Sheets: Use light, breathable cotton sheets which allow air to circulate and wick away moisture.
Linen Bedding: Linen is another excellent option as it’s breathable and has natural cooling properties.

2. Cooling Mattress and Pillows
Gel Mattresses: Invest in a gel-infused memory foam mattress which helps dissipate body heat.
Cooling Pillows: Use pillows designed with cooling gel or breathable materials to keep your head cool.

3. Mattress Protectors and Toppers
Cooling Mattress Protector: A cooling mattress protector can help regulate temperature and protect your mattress.
Cooling Mattress Topper: Use a cooling topper made from materials like gel-infused foam or breathable fabrics.

4. Regulate Room Temperature
Keep Windows Open: Open windows at night to allow cooler air to circulate in the room.
Blackout Curtains: Use blackout curtains to block out daytime heat and keep the room cooler.

5. Personal Cooling Methods
Cool Shower: Take a cool shower before bed to lower your body temperature.
Light Pyjamas: Wear lightweight, breathable pyjamas made from materials like cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics.
Cold Water Bottle: Place a bottle filled with cold water or an ice pack near your feet to cool down your body.

6. Airflow and Ventilation
Strategic Ventilation: Position your bed to take advantage of cross ventilation if possible.
Open Doors: Keep bedroom doors open to improve airflow.

7. Minimise Heat Sources
Electronics: Turn off electronic devices well before bedtime as they can generate heat.
Minimal Bedding: Use the thinnest possible duvet or a lightweight blanket.

More homes needed for would-be landlords as rental market heats up

The rental market is busier now than it was in August pre-pandemic

The amount of enquiries each rental property receives from prospective tenants is now 17, which is down from 26 a year ago but still more than double the number of enquiries we saw in 2019.

Furthermore, the average search area for tenants has increased by more than 60% during the last five years. As renter demand remains high, we have noticed that consumers are looking further afield for their next rental home than they were in 2019. This is due to numerous variables. One potential explanation is a scarcity of rental houses compared to the amount of tenants wishing to relocate, with many tenants struggling to find a home in their neighbourhood. Another concern is likely rising rent rates, forcing tenants to hunt further and broader for a home that fits their budget.

Thus, additional rental homes are needed. The number of available properties is currently 14% more than it was last year, but tenant demand has decreased by 16%. Despite these gains, there is still a long way to go before we achieve the supply and demand levels that existed prior to the pandemic. The quantity of available rental homes is still 20% lower than in 2019, and 22% more tenants want to move than in 2019. According to our most recent research, about 120,000 more rental properties are required to restore rental price growth to pre-pandemic levels based on current demand. Labour has committed to build 1.5 million extra houses.

More government support for landlords to stimulate investment in the private rented sector would be a significant step forward, in turn providing tenants with a wider range of higher-quality housing options.

UK house prices are increasing again

The average UK property is worth £2,400 more than it was six months ago

Growing buyer confidence and an increase in sales in the first half of 2024 are causing property values to firm up. According to recent data, the average UK home is now valued £278,000, up £2,400 since December 2023, and half of all UK homes (15 million) gained in value by 1% or more in the first half of 2024. This is the largest amount since December 2022. During the same time period, 8 million residences (27%) had relatively stable values (changes of less than 1%).

Overall, 6.7 million UK homes' values have decreased by at least 1% since the end of 2023, indicating that some areas are taking longer to recover from the effects of rising mortgage rates. However, 14 million properties were losing value by the end of 2023, so this is a step in the right direction for homeowners affected by recent price drops.

Meanwhile, the north-south value split persists, with fewer homes in the south gaining value as higher prices exacerbate the impact of rising mortgage rates on purchasing power. The forecast is that house prices will rise by 1.5% by the end of the year. However, the south-north gap is here to remain, with residences in the north experiencing above-average growth. These increases are unlikely to return to pandemic levels unless mortgage rates fall considerably.

CALL US TODAY IF YOU WOULD LIKE A CONVERSATION AND A FREE VALUATION!

Our August magazine is out now! Tap or click the link below to check out the new edition and your very own digital copy!

https://issuu.com/thepropertycollection/docs/dec_nob_lr?fr=sMDk0Mjc0NTQxNjE

August 2024 Local family educational events near Luton

Education is the kindly of a flame, not the filling of a vessel, so open your senses to some education events taking place in your local area in the coming weeks

Education is everything, especially to a young life, and it’s one of the few things in life that we cannot have too much of. More education the better, so why not add to your children’s positive development and attend such events in your local area in the coming weeks? We’ve found what we think are the best local family education-related events taking place in your local area in the not-too-distant future.

Summer Family Activity Sessions
From Eventbrite:
Family activity sessions are back! Come with your child/ren and enjoy some craft activities guided by our staff.
Date and time:
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00 - 12:00 BST
Location:
Bushmead Community Hub, Hancock Drive Luton LU2 7SF
https://bit.ly/46sz2Id

University of Bedfordshire Open Campus, Luton
From Eventbrite:
Come and visit the university that puts you first. Visiting the campus is an important part of your journey to Higher Education.
Date and time:
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 10:00 - 16:00 BST
Location:
University of Bedfordshire Park Square Luton LU1 3JU
https://bit.ly/3LSgKXr

Refreshing watermelon recipes to try for National Watermelon Day tomorrow

Watermelon and Feta Salad

Ingredients:
600g cubed watermelon
150g crumbled feta cheese
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, red onion, mint, and basil.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently.
Serve chilled.

Watermelon Gazpacho

Ingredients:
900g cubed watermelon
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
60ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:
In a blender, combine the watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
Blend until smooth.
Add red wine vinegar and olive oil, blending until incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Serve garnished with fresh basil.
This chilled soup is a refreshing starter, ideal for hot days when you crave something cool and hydrating.

Watermelon and Mint Granita

Ingredients:
900g seedless watermelon, cubed
100g sugar
Juice of 2 limes
A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped

Instructions:
In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
Stir in the sugar, lime juice, and mint.
Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish.
Freeze for 1 hour, then scrape with a fork to form icy flakes.
Freeze for another 2 hours, scraping every 30 minutes to create a fluffy texture.
Serve in chilled bowls or glasses.
Granita is a delightful frozen treat that captures the essence of summer, with the sweetness of watermelon and the zing of mint.

🌞 August is heating up, and so is the property market! Discover how much your property could be worth with a free, no-obligation valuation. It’s the perfect time to explore your options.

📅 Schedule your valuation this August.

Choosing the right bird feeders for your garden

Bird feeders come in a variety of designs, each catering to a distinct bird species' eating needs

Seed Feeders
Tube Feeders: Cylindrical tubes with many feeding openings and perches are suitable for small birds like finches and sparrows. They often contain sunflower seeds, mixed seeds, or nyjer.
Hopper Feeders: These feeders, which resemble little houses, release seeds from a central hopper, attracting a variety of birds such as finches, cardinals and doves.

Platform or Tray Feeders
Flat surfaces that can be attached to poles, windows, or draped from trees. They can accommodate larger birds such as pigeons and doves, as well as seeds, fruits, and nuts.

Suet Feeders
These feeders, typically made of wire mesh or plastic-coated metal, contain suet cakes, which are high-energy blocks manufactured from animal fat combined with seeds, nuts, and fruits. They attract birds that consume insects, such as woodpeckers, nuthatches, and starlings.

Nyjer or Thistle Feeders
Designed specifically for nyjer seeds, which are tiny and oily. These feeders have tiny feeding apertures that avoid seed spilling while attracting finches and siskins.

Peanut Feeders
These feeders, made from metal mesh, may accommodate whole or shelled peanuts. They attract woodpeckers, jays, and nuthatches.

Nectar Feeders
These feeders, designed for hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding birds, with red accents and ports that resemble flower forms. They are loaded with a sugary water solution.

Window Feeders
Small feeders connected directly to windows with suction cups enable for close-up views of birds feeding. They are often designed for little birds and contain seeds or mealworms.

Fruit Feeders
These feeders are designed to contain fresh fruits and attract birds such as orioles, tanagers, and mockingbirds. They frequently include skewers or platforms for holding fruit slices.

Choosing the right pizza oven for your garden

When considering pizza ovens for the garden, there are numerous models to select from, each having unique benefits and tailored to different needs and preferences

Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
Traditional Brick or Stone Ovens: These ovens are typically dome-shaped and constructed of bricks or stones. They hold heat incredibly well, enabling for high temperatures to cook pizzas quickly and evenly. They also add a characteristic smoky taste to the pizza.
Portable Wood-Fired Ovens: These portable replicas of classic wood-fired ovens are made of stainless steel or other lightweight materials. They heat up quickly and may be relocated throughout the garden as needed.

Gas Pizza Ovens
Freestanding Gas Ovens: These are stand-alone units that can be installed anywhere in the landscape. They provide the convenience of gas, which heats quickly and enables for precise temperature control.
Built-In Gas Ovens: Integrated into an outdoor kitchen setup, these ovens provide a permanent, stylish solution. They are connected to the home’s gas supply or a gas cylinder.

Electric Pizza Ovens
These ovens are great for people seeking a convenient and user-friendly choice. They require an electrical outlet and are frequently tiny, making them ideal for small gardens or patios. They provide fine temperature control but may lack the authentic wood-fired flavour.

Hybrid Pizza Ovens
Hybrid ovens may use both wood and gas, making them versatile. This allows consumers to enjoy the true taste of wood-fired pizza with the added convenience of gas when needed.

Portable Pizza Ovens:
Pellet Pizza Ovens: These use wood pellets for fuel, combining the taste benefits of wood with the convenience of pellets. They are often tiny and portable.
Multi-Fuel Pizza Ovens: These ovens are designed to run on a variety of fuels, including wood, gas and charcoal, and provide flexibility depending on what fuel is available or preferred at the moment.

How the Renters’ Reform Bill can benefit landlords

While much of the conversation surrounding the measure focusses on tenant safeguards, certain elements are also advantageous to landlords

The Bill aims to create a more equitable and balanced rental market. The bill improves transparency, streamlines processes, and provides clearer norms for possession and property standards, allowing landlords to manage their properties more efficiently and lessen the chance of conflicts and legal disputes. This balanced strategy is intended to promote a more stable and cooperative rental environment.

Clarity and Transparency:
The bill supports clear and open rules, allowing landlords to better understand their obligations and tenants' rights. This can help to reduce disagreements and improve landlord-tenant relationships.

Digital Rent Payment Systems:
By encouraging digital payments and paperwork, the bill assists landlords in streamlining rent collecting and management processes. This innovative technique reduces administrative responsibilities while ensuring timely payments, lowering the danger of arrears.

Enhanced Grounds for Possession:
The law offers improved and more specific grounds for possession, notably in cases of antisocial behaviour or recurrent rent arrears. This makes it easier for landlords to reclaim control of their houses when tenants breach their leasing agreements.

Improved Property Standards:
Landlords will benefit from a consistent quality of property care, since the law focusses on property conditions and safety. This not only protects tenants, but it also helps landlords keep their properties' worth and appeal intact.

Access to Mediation Services:
The establishment of mediation services aims to resolve disagreements amicably, eliminating the need for protracted and costly legal proceedings. This can help landlords save time and money while maintaining tenant relationships.

Simplified Eviction Processes:
While the law eliminates Section 21 "no-fault" evictions, it simplifies and clarifies the eviction procedure for other valid reasons. This allows landlords to better manage their properties and deal with problematic tenants.