Extra touches that save money

A recently opened view home at Culford Mews in Bartley Green highlights the difference properties at that development and the standard stock units offered by many larger house builders.

"We sat down and thought about the sort of things that we have had to install in our own properties that we would like to find in a new home," explains Richard Hardy, Director of GBR Developments who is pictured with Carol O'Leary of selling agents Connells.

"For example as well as part boarding the loft to give very useful additional storage space we have also provided a retractable loft ladder which makes it easily accessible and avoids the hassle of trying to find room to store a free standing ladder. Some of the other items included as standard are front and rear security lights, spotlights in the kitchen and bathroom and an outside tap at the rear of the property - not a huge thing, but very expensive and a pain in the neck to fit after you have moved in, particularly if the only water supply is at the front of the house!"

The one three bedroom house, which has an en-suite double shower room, and six two bedroom homes offer generous, above average living space. The two bedroom houses, which are priced from £134,950, are also exempt from Stamp Duty making them an attractive, affordable option for both first time buyers and downsizers seeking an easily maintained and energy efficient new home. First time buyers could also qualify for the Government backed Home Buy scheme which could give them a substantial discount on the cost of their home.

All the properties are thoughtfully designed and well appointed. Bathrooms have a bell end shaped bath with independent shower unit, curved glass shower screen, Porcelanosa ceramic wall and floor tiling and a chrome heated towel rail. Kitchens include an integrated cooker, hob and extractor hood, fridge freezer and washing machine, all of which have a five year parts warranty, and a Porcelanosa ceramic tiled floor.

Culford Mews is in a quiet cul du sac in Bartley Green. While there are a selection of local amenities for everyday needs within walking distance, the more extensive facilities of Harborne, Northfield and Halesowen are just two to three miles away. Transport links are superb with access to the motorway network at Junction 3 of the M5 a mere two miles distant and a regular train service into Birmingham from Northfield station.

"If people are serious about moving and have visited other developments in the area, then we urge them to make an appointment through Connells Harborne branch or to come along to Culford Mews," says Carol O'Leary.