A rising tide of waterside buyers in Warwick

A waterside Warwick development is bucking the current property trend with consistent sales that have put it way ahead of budget and target levels.

The Arena by Laing Homes, just off Lower Cape Road, has been selling consistently well over the last few months and, consequently, the very last phase of canal side apartments (originally scheduled for early 2010) has been released early due to popular demand.

Sales & marketing director, Carol Edwards, says: “We’re over 80% sold now and I can honestly say that The Arena sold remarkably well during the second half of 2008 and continues to be very popular now as belts tighten somewhat. Despite the current property trend, both visitor levels and sales here have been really encouraging - and we remain cautiously optimistic because the desire to buy a new build home is still there, plus more sustainable price levels and the lowest ever interest rates give us confidence in the affordability of new homes for the future.

“Contrary to the belief that every housebuilder is suspending operations, we’re pretty much progressing at full tilt here and literally building to keep up with demand. I’m not surprised really because it’s an unspoilt and idyllic spot and some of the traditional crafts still exist alongside the picturesque canal and the old Cape of Good Hope waterside pub nearby (featured in the Good Beer & Food guides) still refreshes passing boatmen as well as the locals – old and new.”

The highlight of this record breaking development (a timely regeneration of the old Benfords manufacturing site) are the desirable waterside apartments designed to echo the striking architectural style of former wharf-side warehouses – and they sit in perfect harmony with the peaceful stretch of the Grand Union Canal that they front. And this latest availability includes brand new apartment types like the two bedroom Itchingham with parking and its own front door from just £143,995.

The one bedroom Cosgrove with parking is now available from only £126,995, while the biggest apartment available at The Arena (the two bedroom Dorchester with parking at a generous 760 sq.ft) is now yours from only £148,995,

Ms Edwards adds: “All of our purchasers at The Arena have found being able to relax and unwind with a stroll along the canal at the end of a long day at work, or over the weekend, is very appealing. That’s definitely what they call the xtra factor!“Indeed, the buyer profile here is refreshingly different – much more owner occupation than investor - with a lot of young and mature professionals and also those downsizing because of the picturesque location and the convenience of new build.

The M40 and A46 are also within easy reach and provide an excellent link to the Midlands motorway network and London, while it’s only a 10-minute stroll (the sales executives have walked it!) along the canal towpath to Warwick Parkway railway station for connections to both the capital and Birmingham.”

For more information, log on to Laing-homes.co.uk.