Hawkins Wharf proves a hit with Essex students

What House? Housebuilder of the Year Weston Homes’ luxury mixed-use development Hawkins Wharf in Colchester is proving extremely popular with students at the University of Essex, with a long waiting list of potential tenants queuing up to rent the three/four bedroom houses, providing an excellent opportunity for new investors.

The students are currently waiting for investors to purchase these properties at Hawkins Wharf and there is added incentive for anyone buying the three/four bedroom houses, with their rent guaranteed to be paid for two years if they are unable to find a tenant .

Hawkins Wharf was also highly commended in the Best New Starter Home (large developers) category at The London Evening Standard New Homes Awards 2011 on 13th May 2011.

Located on the banks of the River Colne, Hawkins Wharf offers attractive investment opportunities for purchasers looking to take advantage of current high demand in the local rental market and achieve up to a 10% yield on their investment annually. A survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) also listed Colchester as having the highest projected percentage growth in population between 2008 and 2018, making it a prime location to invest in property.

Estate Agency Jackson & Co are working alongside Weston Homes on the rental. Managing Director Dean Jackaman commented: “The demand for these units at Hawkins Wharf is amazing. We are currently running a waiting list for completed units in July, August and September. We are also keen to speak to new investors offering a two year rent guarantee. We have an excellent arrangement with Essex University students and take them very seriously and even encourage their parents to buy rather than rent, as huge savings can be achieved over two or three years.”

The first phase of the Hawkins Wharf waterfront development features 43 one and two-bedroom apartments and seven three/four bedroom townhouses, many with tranquil views over the river. When complete, Hawkins Wharf will comprise 221 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and seven, three/four bedroom townhouses as well as commercial and retail space.

Bob Weston, Weston Homes Chairman and Chief Executive, commented: “The homes at Hawkins Wharf offer outstanding value for money, luxurious interiors, a fantastic location and unspoilt views of the river. The exceptional level of specification has proved particularly popular and with a huge demand from students and rent guaranteed for two years, the development appeals to investors.”

All homes are finished to Weston Homes’ trademark high standard. Kitchens come complete with integrated stainless steel appliances and choice of designer units and worktops. Sleek modern bathrooms and en-suites offer a haven of relaxation featuring 'Roca Laura' wall hung sanitaryware with contemporary chrome taps and heated towel rails. Wooden floors feature throughout halls, kitchens, dining and living areas in the apartments and ground floor areas of the houses. The luxurious homes also feature Sky+ points in the living areas and main bedrooms.

An integral part of the development is the £250,000 Topsail footbridge linking The Hythe with the town centre. It provides a new focal point for the Hythe area, and easy access for residents to get from one side of the river to the other.

Although Colchester is the oldest recorded town in Britain, dating back to pre-roman times, it has become a thriving, modern centre for the surrounding area. There is a wide range of shopping, entertainment and cultural venues as well as numerous restaurants, pubs and bars. The town is extremely well serviced in terms of commuter connections, with London Liverpool Street less than an hour away by train. The platform at the Hythe Station have also been extended and upgraded to accommodate the larger intercity trains direct to London Liverpool Street. The A12 provides a fast route to Chelmsford and to the M25 and on to London.

Prices start from only £116,500 for one and two bedroom apartments and £225,000 for three/four bedroom townhouses. For further information, visit: weston-homes.co.uk/HawkinsWharf