Home and Garden Chatter

John Wayne’s Saddlebags

Planning for a house-warming party, my far-better-half suggested that we throw a ‘make your own’ cocktail bash. Sounds like a good idea, but it reminded me of a similar event that my housemates and I held during our college days.

Not having much money to spend we had to make do with whatever ingredients and equipment we had to hand. This resulted in some interesting concoctions. One that sticks in my memory we named ‘John Wayne’s Saddlebags’.

The ingredients, as far as I can recall, included a tin of Heinz Oxtail soup, a dash of horse-radish sauce and a little mustard. The alcoholic content was provided with a generous helping of Guinness and some very cheap polish vodka. This all topped off with a little Grenadine and a splash of Tabasco sauce. A fiery, meaty combination that was as hot coming out as it was going in.

Indeed this was a memorable libation that not only resulted in extreme drunkenness but also provided some much needed nutrition. I somehow don’t think that this particular recipe will be filling the cocktail glasses at our forthcoming house-warming party.

Home Information Packs Made Easy

Confused about home information packs, we were until we talked to estate agents Michael Jones who explained the whole process.

Home information packs contain important information for buyers and sellers and are necessary for any home for sale after the 14th of December 2007. These packs benefit buyers and sellers alike, making the whole buying and selling process much more efficient and less stressful for both parties. Buyers have access to important information right from the word go, helping them make a worry free decision. This in turn benefits sellers, as there are no unwanted surprises which may compromise the sale of a home.

Please also note that currently this legislation is only relevant for properties containing three or more bedrooms, but will be introduced for other properties in the future.

Michael Jones offer property in West Sussex. Their website was particularly helpful, with home information packs available directly from them, and download guides also available on the site.

For more information visit www.michaeljones.co.uk, or Home Information Packs direct at www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk.

Location is key when finding affordable property to buy

Just because of falling house prices and the credit crunch, doesn’t mean that the housing market is dead. A call in to your local estate agents and mortgage broker could just leave you surprised at what you can afford.

An important issue when considering property to buy is to think clever about your location. You may find that house prices are considerably cheaper in neighbouring towns, for example, average prices in Brighton and Hove at the moment are £279,192, whereas if you were to move just down the coast to Worthing, an attractive seaside town with good services and transport connections, you’ll find that the average price for a like-for-like property is £222,422 – more than 20% less!

By broadening options, you open up many more chances to find your dream house at a credit crunch beating price. If you are interested in property in West Sussex, contact Michael Jones estate agents. They also offer independent mortgage advice, and can help find the best deals in the current housing environment.