Name and business title: Siobhan Staunton, Head of New Homes, Marsh & Parsons.
Where is your firm selling new homes? All new homes development we are marketing are located close to one of our 19 offices in central, west and south west London. Our network is especially appealing to housebuilders as it allows us to cross-sell.
What types of properties are on offer? We sell both apartments and houses ranging from large developments to smaller, boutique-style properties. To give an example, we are currently marketing a selection of all-singing, all-dancing apartments with cinema rooms, as well as some stunning eco-houses, which are light, spacious and efficient to run.
How much does a new home cost to buy? Our existing stock of new homes currently starts from £445,000.
What makes a new home stand out from the crowd? The finish of a new build home is very often the main draw for purchasers. Also appealing is the way they are planned, which is always inline with everyday needs compared to buying an older-style property. Flexible living accommodation, en-suite bathrooms and useable outside space, often incorporating courtyards or roof terraces are very attractive to the modern buyer.
Have you noticed any particular buying trends recently? Running costs of a property are very much at the forefront of a buyer's mind when looking to purchase. Very early on in their search, buyers are increasingly asking questions about the renewable energy sources and overall running costs of a new home. As a result, developers are now looking at what they can add to a new build property at the development stage to ensure it is as energy efficient as possible.
Is your company currently offering any incentives or discounts to homebuyers? Various housebuilders will offer incentives, based on a buyer's requirements. It's always worth speaking to one of our Sales Consultants to see what is on offer.
Which new homes development potentially offers the best property investment prospects? The Clockhouse in North Kensington is a fantastic investment opportunity. The rental yields achievable are very attractive and the area is an up and coming part of the Royal Borough, yet still much more affordable than neighbouring Notting Hill.
What is Marsh & Parsons' USP? Our ‘local know-how' sets us apart from the competition; all of our people have extensive knowledge of the areas they work in. Our growing network of offices and their prime positions is also a huge selling feature of our company.
Which of your current new build developments do you think stands the best chance of winning a What House? Award? We are selling The Greenhauses in Brook Green on behalf of Octavia Living and it's one of my favourite developments. It is eco living at its best and the features of the house really make it stand out from the crowd.