Trade in your ‘gas-guzzler’ for an energy-efficient new home

In the face of soaring energy prices - which the BBC predicts could rise by as much as 40% over the winter* - buying a brand new home could prove a shrewd move this summer. According to research by National Energy Services, living in a new build property could save up to £556 per year on energy bills at present rates. If, as predicted, prices continue to rise the saving could become even greater.

And if you’ve never considered a new build home before, perhaps because you tend to prefer something with a little more character, the ideal solution could be on the horizon - in the charming form of ‘The Courtyard’ at Essendon Park. This exclusive collection of apartments and courtyard houses in an idyllic setting combine all the benefits of a brand new home yet have been painstakingly designed to reflect the character of the neighbouring Grade II listed manor house.

In addition to meeting the NHBC’s (National House-Building Council) strict thermal regulations, these homes feature a highly efficient gas-fired central heating system in conjunction with a pressurised hot water system that supplies equally pressured hot and cold water, so comfort isn’t compromised for efficiency.

All the properties have been given a contemporary feel with large, flexible kitchen/breakfast rooms and adjoining living/dining areas. Internationally renowned furniture maker Mark Wilkinson has been commissioned to craft the spacious kitchens in their trademark Lansbury design in hand-selected oak which will be complemented by polished granite worktops and Miele stainless steel appliances.

Add to this the fact that all of The Courtyard properties have their own garage, that a concierge service is on hand to help with residents’ day-to-day errands, a hard tennis court is available exclusively for residents’ use and golfing facilities lie on the doorstep, and it’s easy to see that these are not just any new homes.

The lifestyle offered by The Courtyard is matched only by its location – it is surrounded by the rolling fairways of the Hatfield London Golf and Country Club’s challenging courses and is close to the picture-book village of Essendon, while Barnet and Potters Bar with their excellent links to London are both within 8 miles.

Ready for immediate occupation with carpets throughout, just three 2/3 bedroom apartments and one 4 bedroom courtyard house remain. Prices at ‘The Courtyard’ start at £599,950 for the apartments with the remaining house on the market for £745,000.

The Sales and Marketing Suite is open daily from 10am – 5pm, or log on to Essendonpark.co.uk for further details.

* http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7461635.stm