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Understanding Buyer Preferences in Buckingham

  • May 7, 2024

Understanding Buyer Preferences in Buckingham

The Basingstoke property  landscape experienced significant transformations in the recent two years, much like the rest of the society, economy, and many spheres of human life, increasingly influenced in the last 1.5 years by the ongoing pandemic. The following work aims to explore the changes in what kind of properties were bought and the underlying preferences in the country, comparing the current demands with the perspective of almost three decades. The housing unit types the current paper will focus on are detached, semi-detached, terraced houses, and flats, covering properties in Basingstoke and a 1-mile adjacent radius.

Basingstoke Detached Houses: A Shift Towards Modernity:

According to property experts, including Buckingham estate agents, detached properties, which have always been the epitome of homeownership in Basingstoke, praised for their space and seclusion, lose their appeal with local buyers. Only 23.9% of all property sales were detached houses over the last two years, which is drastically less compared to 29.4% throughout the last three decades, making an 18.9% property share. Importantly, this trend began well before the pandemic and indicates shifting homeowners’ priorities. These include changing demographics, transforming living standards, and the increasing rates of land, making larger and more private options less desired compared to those that prioritise convenience and access to city amenities.

Basingstoke Semi-Detached Houses: Balancing Space and Affordability:

In contrast, semi-detached houses in Basingstoke have maintained a consistent presence in the market, offering a middle ground between the expansiveness of detached homes and the compact nature of terraced houses. Their enduring appeal is evident among diverse buyer groups, including families and young professionals who appreciate the blend of space and affordability these homes provide. Recently, there has been a noticeable uptick in demand for mature, extended semi-detached houses. This suggests a market adaptation to the growing needs for home Read the rest

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Top Residential Areas in Qatar to Consider for Living

  • August 9, 2023

Top Residential Areas in Qatar to Consider for Living

When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home in Qatar, there are several exceptional residential areas that stand out. With a booming real estate market and a variety of properties for rent in Qatar, there’s something for everyone’s preferences and needs. Whether you’re a young professional, a family with kids, or a retiree looking for a peaceful environment, Qatar has a range of residential options to cater to your lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top residential areas in Qatar that you should consider for living.

1. The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar is a stunning man-made island that’s become synonymous with luxury living. Its Mediterranean-style architecture, picturesque views, and high-end shopping and dining options make it one of the most sought-after residential areas in the country. The Pearl offers a mix of apartments and villas, all equipped with modern amenities and stunning waterfront views. It’s also conveniently located near major business districts, making it an attractive choice for professionals. If you’re looking for exclusivity and a lavish lifestyle, The Pearl-Qatar should be at the top of your list.

2. West Bay

West Bay is another prominent residential area in Qatar, known for its towering skyscrapers, impressive skyline, and proximity to major business hubs. This area is perfect for those who seek convenience, as it’s situated in the heart of Doha, the capital city. West Bay offers a mix of upscale apartments and serviced residences, making it a great choice for expatriates and professionals. The area is also home to numerous international schools, making it suitable for families with children.

3. Al Sadd

Al Sadd is a vibrant neighborhood that strikes a balance between modernity and tradition. It’s known for its bustling markets, cultural attractions, and a wide range of housing options. From cozy apartments Read the rest

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Finding Your Dream Home in St Albans: Tips for House Hunting in a Competitive Market

  • July 20, 2023

Finding Your Dream Home in St Albans: Tips for House Hunting in a Competitive Market

Introduction

St Albans, a historic city nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, has become a sought-after destination for homebuyers. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to London, it’s no wonder that the property market in St Albans is highly competitive. If you’re on the hunt for your dream home in this bustling city, here are some tips to help you navigate the challenges of a competitive market and find the perfect property.

Define Your Priorities 

Before diving into the house hunting process, take the time to identify your priorities. Consider factors such as location, size, amenities, and budget. Knowing what you’re looking for will help you stay focused and make informed decisions during your search.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage 

In a competitive market, it’s crucial to be prepared. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a clear understanding of your budget and show sellers that you’re a serious buyer. This step will also expedite the buying process once you find your dream home.

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent

Partnering with a knowledgeable and experienced St Albans estate agent who specializes in the St Albans market can be a game-changer. They will have insider knowledge, access to exclusive listings, and the negotiation skills needed to help you secure your dream home in a competitive market.

Stay Updated with Online Listings 

Set up alerts on popular property websites and stay updated with new listings. In a competitive market, desirable properties can go under offer quickly. Being one of the first to know about new listings will give you an advantage and increase your chances of finding your dream home.

Attend Open Houses and Viewings  

Actively participate in open houses and property viewings. This will give you the opportunity to get a feel for different neighborhoods, Read the rest

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Why Use Hot Tub Enzymes for Hot Tubs or Spa Care

  • July 14, 2023

Why Use Hot Tub Enzymes for Hot Tubs or Spa Care

A hot tub is a luxurious amenity that provides relaxation, therapeutic pros, and a great place to unwind. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure your hot tub’s durability and optimal performance. There are various products available for spa care.

However, hot tub enzymes are popular for their exceptional cleaning and maintenance properties. This article will explore why incorporating hot tub enzymes into your spa care routine is wise.

What are Hot Tub Enzymes?

Hot tub enzymes are specialized products that help maintain water cleanliness and clarity in a hot tub or spa. They are formulated with a blend of natural enzymes and bacteria that work together to break down and digest organic contaminants in the water. Enzymes effectively eliminate oils, lotions, detergents, and other organic substances accumulating in the water.

Reasons to Use Hot Tub Enzymes 

  1. Improves Water Clarity

One of the main reasons to utilize hot tub enzymes is their ability to enhance water clarity. Enzymes break down organic matter like body oils, lotions, and cosmetics that accumulate in the water. Enzymes avoid cloudy water by eliminating contaminants, leaving your hot tub crystal clear and clean. You can enjoy a pristine spa experience without worrying about impurities affecting the visual appeal of your tub.

  1. Avoiding Unpleasant Odors

Using your tub regularly leads to the accumulation of organic compounds that emit unpleasant odors. Hot tub enzymes efficiently digest these compounds, removing foul smells and ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere in your spa. By addressing the root cause of the odors rather than simply masking them with fragrances, enzymes provide a durable -lasting solution for an odor-free hot tub experience.

  1. Prevents Scale Formation

Calcium and other minerals naturally found in water lead to scale formation on the surface of your hot tub. The deposits not only detract from the appearance Read the rest

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Miss Manners: Are modern workplaces really OK with tattoos?

  • May 3, 2024

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My 27-year-old granddaughter says most people her age have tattoos, and don’t even cover them up at work.

Is this the new norm? I thought legitimate businesses made employees cover them up.

GENTLE READER: There are two things here that Miss Manners would like to avoid: finding out what you believe constitutes a “legitimate business,” and challenging workplace policies that have already been established and with which everyone seems to be content.

As long as the tattoos are not actively offensive and the employers are fine with it, Miss Manners is not getting involved. Think of the tattoos as a chance to see firsthand that this generation loves their mothers — and butterflies.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: On many occasions over the course of my life, I’ve been approached in public settings by unfamiliar men who ask to know my height.

Without waiting for an answer, they say something like, “You must be at least 6 foot, because I am 5-foot-10.” These men are invariably much shorter than their stated heights, which further adds to the discomfort of the situation.

It’s happened many times, in nearly an identical way each time, and I am just as flummoxed for a response in my 40s as I was in my teens. How would Miss Manners suggest I respond?

GENTLE READER: “5-foot-10, you say? Weird. So am I.”

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I recently bought a fairly expensive set of deck furniture (sofa and chairs), which I use frequently. The problem is that there is always cat hair all over the furniture.

I don’t own a cat because I am severely allergic, and can’t have cat hair anywhere close to me without taking allergy meds (which only lessen the symptoms, not eliminate them). My children are just as allergic.

I’ve seen my

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Money latest: Seven tips for getting a free upgrade on a plane | UK News

  • May 2, 2024

You’re probably washing and storing your clothes wrong. Here’s what you should do instead

By Emily Mee, Money team

Discovering a hole in your favourite pair of jeans or a rip in your well-worn cosy jumper is certainly irritating – but it doesn’t mean those items are destined for the bin. 

In fact, ethical fashion campaigners say that’s the last place your items should be going. There is usually plenty you can do to repair them – or even to avoid damage in the first place. That way, you can keep your best-loved pieces in your wardrobe for years to come. 

Katrina Caspelich, from fair fashion campaign Remake, takes the Money blog through what you can do…

Store your clothes better

  • Clean them before storing them: Always ensure that clothes are clean before storing them. Launder or dry clean them according to the care instructions on the label. Stains and dirt can attract insects and cause fabric deterioration over time.

  • Use breathable storage containers: Opt for breathable storage containers such as cotton canvas bags or boxes instead of plastic bins. This allows air circulation and prevents moisture build up, which can lead to mould and mildew.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Store clothes in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause colours to fade and weaken fabric fibres over time.

  • Hang clothes properly: Invest in quality hangers that provide adequate support to garments. Use padded or wooden hangers for delicate items like suits, dresses and knits. Avoid using wire hangers, as they can cause garments to lose their shape. Don’t hang wet clothes on hangers – they can stretch.

  • Use garment bags: For long-term storage of formal wear or seasonal clothing, consider using garment bags to protect items from dust, insects, and moisture.

  • Rotate clothing: Rotate your wardrobe

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10 pieces of furniture at Wayfair that double as storage, according to a professional organizer

  • May 1, 2024

My professional designer and organizer’s eye has been caught by several furniture finds from Wayfair that do double duty — they look gorgeous, but also act as a secret storage. These clever pieces for every room in your house are attractive and functional, and help to keep your living space organized. Even better, they’re all on sale! I love this stylish entryway cabinet that also acts as storage for up to 12 pairs of shoes. (It’s even gone viral on TikTok!). This platform bed is equipped with four hidden storage drawers in its base — perfect for tucking away extra PJs or sweaters. While there’s plenty of storage furniture to choose from at Wayfair, scroll down to check out my top multi-functional picks.

Wayfair

Let’s start in the bedroom. I love a bed that has drawers built right into the frame for storing extra sweaters, pajamas or blankets — you’ll be amazed at how much you can pack in and hide away. Plus, this piece is equally as attractive as it is functional — an off-white poly blend adds texture while the tufting compliments the tailored look. 

$300 at Wayfair

Wayfair

A sleek upholstered storage bench works well at the end of your bed. Use it to store those decorative throw pillows, rather than — literally — throwing them on the floor. It’s great for off-season blankets, shoes or anything that needs a home. (And doubles as seat for when you need to put those shoes on in the morning!) I also love the split lift feature of this piece and the soft close hinges. You can try it in your entry or living areas, too. 

$265 at Wayfair

Wayfair

I love multi-taskers and this jewelry armoire has everything you need to get yourself ready for the outside world. Not

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The Pumpkin Tiny Is a Masterclass in Modern Rustic Functionality

  • April 27, 2024

Is it possible to enjoy both the familiar coziness of a traditional wooden cabin and the ingenious functionality of a contemporary abode in the same tiny house? The answer is yes, and the colorful Mobi 08 Pumpkin is here to prove it.

Homes on wheels designed by Mobi House are always easily recognizable due to their trademark colorful exteriors with a traditional look. If you’re looking for futuristic designs and unusual architectural structures, these houses might seem overly simplistic. Still, their ingenious spirit focused on functionality is fully revealed inside. Despite their classic structure, the Mobi House tiny homes make a statement through the bold use of unusually vibrant colors, making way for more mellow interiors where Scandinavian clean aesthetics meet rustic elements for old-school comfort.

The Pumpkin draws attention with a beautiful color scheme of dark red and anthracite gray – not too flashy, yet striking. On the outside, white window frames and trims were used to create contrast and add a fresh touch. On the inside, jet-black accents were used for the same purpose, highlighting the pristine white walls and wooden furniture in light, natural tones. The Scandinavian inspiration is obvious, but with an edgy twist that keeps the Pumpkin Tiny from lining up with classic minimalist designs.

Using functional elements such as doors, appliances, and pieces of furniture as décor elements is one of the brand’s trademarks. It’s a smart way to make the most of the available floor space without adding anything that could create clutter. The glossy black full-size fridge isn’t just a required kitchen appliance but also a visually striking accent against the backdrop of the white furniture and walls. The sliding bathroom door has a similar effect, as does the protection wall for the loft above.

Mobi 08 Pumpkin

Photo: Mobi House

The modular sofa, one

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The Best Modern Versions of the Iconic Mario Bellini Sofa

  • April 26, 2024

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Ask anyone to name a popular sofa right now, and chances are a majority of people will include a Mario Bellini sofa in their answers. For those who may not know the name off the tip of their tongue, you might’ve heard phrases like that popular “bubble-like sofa” or “cloud-like shape sofa.” This silhouette has dominated magazine covers and your IG feed alike. The furniture piece is a way to bring maximalism to your space without feeling too over-the-top, and you have an Italian designer’s inspiration from over 50 years ago to thank for that.

What Is the Mario Bellini Sofa?

family room

Lauren Miller

Mario Bellini is an Italian architect and designer born in 1935. Bellini’s designs are original, playful, and designed for every day life, from his marble coffee tables to his dining room chairs. He first debuted the Camaleonda modular sofa at a 1972 Museum of Modern Art exhibition in New York City. The popularity of the furniture led him to partner with furniture company B&B Italia to produce the sofa until 1979.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.1stdibs.com%2Ffurniture%2Fseating%2Fsofas%2F1966-bb-italia-camaleonda-sofa-mario-bellini-four-piece-cream-canvas-sofa%2Fid-f_39147562%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fshopping%2Ffurniture%2Fa45344238%2Fbellini-sofa-review-guide%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>B&B Italia Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini</p><p>1stdibs.com</p><p>$27993.78</p>

One feature that made it such a cult favorite is its modularity. You can decide how many you’d like to seat, whether you’d prefer a full three-seater sofa, a corner piece as an armchair, or a center piece as an ottoman. Several of the sofa sections are still being sold individually on platforms like 1stDibs and Chairish, so if you don’t have the space or budget for a full sectional yet, you can just as easily add a pouf to spice up your living room.

Is the Mario Bellini Sofa Comfortable?

The original Camaleonda is incredibly customizable, so

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Apt2B Sale April 2024: Shop the Best Furniture Deals for 20% Off This Spring

  • April 25, 2024

If spring cleaning has you noticing some existing gaps in your furniture and decor, don’t fret. Now is the perfect time to fill the space in your home because Apt2B just kicked off an epic sale on all of the brand’s modern furniture. From best-selling couches to bar carts and nightstands, look no further than Apt2B’s Live Colorfully Sale to score massive savings for the new season.

Now through Tuesday, May 7, Apt2B is offering 20% off all furniture and decor sitewide. You can also get an extra 5% off custom seating. Plus, free shipping is included with everything. 

Shop the Apt2B Sale

No matter which part of your home you’re looking to spruce up, Apt2B has makes it a mission to create beautiful furniture and home decor that not only looks good but is also built to last. The Live Colorfully Sale at Apt2B is practically a one-stop shop for your furniture shopping this spring.

Since high-quality, furniture pieces can be expensive, seasonal savings from your favorite brands are the best way to go when you’re looking to purchase big-ticket items like sectionals, platform beds and credenzas. Whether you’re in the market for a new sleeper sofa, or looking to upgrade your dining room set, shop the best furniture deals from Apt2B’s sale below.

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

Apt2B

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

This best-selling sofa offers the versatility you need for rearranging furniture and accommodating any future moves. It’s designed like a traditional sectional, but features a reversible chaise ottoman that can be placed on either end.

Aiken Platform Bed

Aiken Platform Bed

Apt2B

Aiken Platform Bed

This modern platform bed features a contrasting fabric headboard in graphite and is supported by a sturdy frame with smooth, rounded edges.

Pasadena Sideboard

Pasadena Sideboard

Apt2B

Pasadena Sideboard

Made of beautiful Sheesham wood,

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High-end Black-owned furniture and design store opens in SouthPark

  • April 24, 2024

SouthPark has a new resident: a Black-owned furniture store called AFD.

The furniture store – which rebranded from Amodernary Furniture Design – is now open at 4425 Sharon Road, Unit M100, in Apex, a shopping area in SouthPark.

Carlos Fuller, owner and CEO, told QCity Metro he hopes the store will become the city’s premier choice for modern furniture and home interior design.

Inside AFD SouthPark. April 2024. (QCity Metro)

Focused on design

Fuller, 43, left working in the finance department of automobile sales in 2017 to follow his passion: interior design.

When he began searching for options furniture, he said he found “very minimal” options in Charlotte. This inspired him to open a furniture store.

He launched his company in December 2017 and opened its initial physical space in Charlotte’s South End at 201 Worthington Avenue the following year.

Over the last six years, Fuller and his team have become popular for home staging, redesign and finding staple modern pieces for people’s homes.

Inside AFD SouthPark. April 2024. (QCity Metro)

Modern furniture style, he said, “is trendy, but not.” He noted that while many of the styles are considered popular and trending today, the modern style is long-lasting regarding appeal. Something that might be selling well now will likely still be relevant in five years, he said.

In March, Fuller closed the Worthington Avenue space to relocate to SouthPark, where Amodernary Furniture Design rebranded to AFD SouthPark, and moved into a larger, custom-built space.

AFD, he said, carries more than 60 brands, many of whom are international designers and experts in modern furniture styles. Fuller said the majority of his store’s inventory hails from Italy and Spain, with a few U.S.-based designers from places like Colorado.

“I’m constantly looking for some of the nicest and the hottest modern furniture

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Bentley Home Office Furniture Milan Design Week

  • April 21, 2024

Bentley Home has introduced its first home office furniture and unveiled a new collection celebrating over a decade of luxury furniture design at Milan Design Week 2024. The collection, showcased in the historic Palazzo Chiesa, includes six new pieces that embody lightness and contemporary luxury.

This year marks Bentley Home’s first venture into home office furniture, featuring the Wilton desk designed by Francesco Forcellini. Notable elements of the desk include its dynamic form and curved details, offering a sense of lightness and an innovative dual-shell profile. It features integrated drawers and is available in bespoke finishes like Liquid Amber and Warm Grey Fiddleback Sycamore.

The collection also includes the Bollington office armchair, which complements the Wilton desk with its minimalist and organic design, capturing the essence of Bentley‘s elegance.

In collaboration with Federico Peri, the new Loftus sofa introduces a modular concept with floating cushions and integrated marble or leather side tables, showcasing a blend of geometric lines and organic shapes. This piece, alongside the Wilton desk and Bollington armchair, highlights the collection’s focus on innovation and sustainability.

Carlo Colombo contributed to the collection with the Chilton seating line and the Langport bed, each piece reflecting Bentley’s iconic design elements. The Chilton armchair and chair feature sinuous curves and a dynamic exterior with bands of veneer. The Langport bed offers a sophisticated design with customizable panels and integrated ambient reading lights.

Chris Cooke, Head of Bentley Design Collaborations, emphasized the collection’s dedication to customization and the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern design, stating, “The new collection for 2024 is characterized by dynamism and a lightness of touch. It is a meeting of design minds — all of whom share a commitment to translating and elevating Bentley’s distinctive design DNA into contemporary furniture.”

The Bentley Home Atelier also featured a

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Walmart is practically giving away this bestselling 4-piece rattan patio furniture set for $220

  • April 20, 2024
walmart-4-piece-rattan-patio-set-hero.jpg

Walmart


Want to level up your outdoor living space this spring? Head on over to Walmart — the Walmart website that is — because we found a really fantastic deal on a top-rated rattan patio furniture set for $220. CBS Essentials readers are going crazy for it: It’s our bestselling patio set of 2024.

Right now you can get this 4.2-star rated patio set by Costway that includes two single chairs with cushions (23.5″ x 25″ x 31″), a loveseat with a cushion (43.5″ x 25″ x 31″) and a tempered glass top coffee table (35″ x 18″ x 17.5″) that supports up to 165 pounds. The chairs support up to 400 pounds. The washable cushions are available in white, turquoise, red, navy and beige.

“This patio furniture looks great and is very comfortable,” a Walmart reviewer said. “All the pieces and hardware were clearly marked and the assembly instructions were easy to follow. Very well satisfied.”

Originally priced at $369, you can get this four-piece patio furniture set at Walmart for just $220. Shipping is included.

Looking for more outdoor deals? Walmart has plenty of discounted outdoor furniture pieces and patio sets to shop right now. Tap the button below to see all the deals.


More great patio furniture deals at Walmart

Walmart is your go-to store for inexpensive patio furniture this spring. Check out these curated Walmart patio furniture finds, with options for every size of porch or deck.

Rattan seven-piece patio furniture set with sofa: $361

walmart-7-piece-patio-set-rattan.jpg

Walmart


Need more seating for your guests this spring and summer? Walmart has you covered with this seven-piece outdoor furniture set that includes two corner sofas, four armless sofas, a coffee table with a tempered glass top, extra seat clips to keep the sofas from sliding apart and an adjustable footrest

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