Elevate PR adds rental housing specialist Greystar to its stellar constellation of clients

The team at Elevate PR has enjoyed a dazzling start to 2021. The specialist property and interiors boutique agency is proud to announce a new client Greystar, a global leader in the investment, development, and management of high-quality rental housing, to its portfolio. Elevate PR will initially work with Greystar to position Greenford Quay as one of London’s most exciting new neighbourhoods and promote rental housing as a lifestyle choice to potential customers. 

Collectively, Elevate PR intends to show how GreyStar is setting new standards in the rental experience in the UK. The red thread that cements the Brand’s reputation will be Greystar’s long-term investment in designing, building and managing dynamic accommodation, which defies common assumptions about private rental.  

 Chanel, Managing Director, Elevate PR says: “We have started the year on an incredibly positive note at Elevate PR with a number of new business wins and an expanding team.  As a sophisticated and professional real estate firm in nearly 200 markets globally, we’re looking forward to showcasing the talent that exists in the UK at Greystar, and the highly aspirational rental homes and communities that they so expertly create.”

Bailey adds: “Working with developers like Greystar is always an inherently positive and forward-looking scope for us. With Grestar specifically, we will be able to share a vision for the future where people can place themselves in vibrant new environments.”

Annabel Turbutt-Day, Director of Communications for Greystar Europe says: “Greystar has specialised in rental housing for more than 30 years and we now have operations in over 20 countries. While investors and the real estate industry are familiar with our approach, the key to success in residential housing is our customers and we want to make sure they understand what choosing to live with Greystar in the UK is like. By working with Elevate, we hope to reach new audiences to encourage them to consider purpose-designed and professionally managed rental housing when they are looking for their next home.” 

ENDS

To find out more on GreyStar visit: www.greystar.com

International Women’s Day 2021

Today, Monday 8th March is International Women's Day 2021 and this year the theme is #ChooseToChallenge.  Elevate PR is marking this date by joining forces with some of our most inspiring female clients to share their advice and tips about working in property. The aim is to provide a helping hand that young people might need in these unusual times. Across the next few days, our social media channels will be used as a platform to share advice and put a face to some of the property world’s most dynamic leaders – who also happen to be women.

The team at Elevate PR chose to utilise the voices and insights of our female client leaders because we recognise there has been a huge debate over the last year about the challenges many women – and especially young women - have had to bear during the pandemic.  Indeed, for young people who are perhaps seeking internships, have been furloughed, or been recently made redundant, they are navigating a career path in virtual isolation, with few ways to build workplace relationships or learn by observing other professionals. Our female clients’ expert advice might help set a course for a young person’s career in the wide-ranging arena of the property sector. 

Moreover, the statistics speak for themselves. According to academics from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and Exeter University, young workers are twice as likely to have lost their jobs compared to older employees and that employment and earnings losses are more pronounced for women, the self-employed and those who grew up in a poor family. One in six young people have stopped working since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and about half reported a delay in their studies, according to a survey by the United Nations’ International Labour Organization (ILO). 

Our thanks go to Camilla Dell, Managing Partner at Black Brick luxury buying agency, Lisa Simon, Head of Residential at Carter Jonas, Monica Rowe, Director of Marketing at Harrods Estates and Angela Walsh, Sales & Marketing Director at Far East Consortium who have kindly shared their top tips. 

If you’re not already following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter you will find us @Elevate_Public_Relations

Properties to fall in love with this Valentine’s Day

With so many plans cancelled in 2021, we are determined to remind those looking for a love nest that gets the heart racing could be on the cards this Valentine’s Day. Here we have collated the most romantic lust-worthy properties from our clients at Elevate PR. 

Park Crescent, Marylebone, on the market with Harrods Estates

Firstly, this stunning property on Regent’s Crescent in Marylebone has launched onto the market with Harrods Estates £5,950,000. What could be more fitting for Valentine’s Day 2021 than your own private bar? Clearly the current owners of this property have enjoyed their own love affair with the 1,954 sq ft apartment.  For an intimate date night at home, there is an open plan kitchen positioned adjacent to a large marble-topped dining table - perfect for preparing a romantic supper, whilst sharing an aperitif from the impressive wine display cabinet. This space leads invitingly to a bespoke, handcrafted mahogany bar with Mondrian-esque mirror panelled walls behind it; it’s easy to imagine this as the perfect spot to pour a night-cap. 

 Magna Carta Park, a new development by Royalton Group

A heart-warming story at the centre of this new luxury private estate, is that of  Eros, the famous statue of love, who lived here at the original mansion house on the grounds of Magna Carta Park during the Second World, for safekeeping.  The famous statue was stored in a room that would later become known as the ‘Eros Room’ for approximately seven years. On 28th June 1947, Eros was returned to Piccadilly Circus in heavy rain and in the presence of several thousand spectators. Today, Coopers Hill house is set to become a hub for private residents to enjoy extensive amenities across the Magna Carta Park estate, including a tennis club, concierge, 24-hour security, spa, restaurant and indoor swimming pool, representing the finest in contemporary country living, all as part of Magna Carta Park’s exclusive private estate of 57 beautifully designed homes within 57 acres of ancient woodland and landscaped garden.  Prices range from £1,000,000 to £4,500,000.  

The Pink School House, on the market with Carter Jonas 

We’re quite literally “thinking pink” – or ‘Suffolk pink’ this Valentine’s Day. This property on the market with Carter Jonas in Pentlow for £515,000 provides prospective buyers with the ideal opportunity to live in their own gorgeous Suffolk Pink home. A beautiful three-bedroom detached home, with charming features in a rural location. The property was originally a School House and parts of the house dates from around 1750, providing depths of character and period features throughout, with its distinctive gothic arched windows, inglenook fireplace and wood burning stove.Behind the old, pitched pine front door, the first floor comprises a bright reception hall, cosy sitting room and a lovely conservatory. Upstairs, three double bedrooms have plentiful storage and far-reaching views over rural countryside, as well as a family bathroom. Pentlow is a small and pretty village set in the Stour Valley only a mile from the Suffolk border, and is surrounded by some delightful countryside. 

COUNTRYSIDE LIVING REIMAGINED AT AMBER PARKSIDE, CRANLEIGH FABRICA PARTNERS WITH UK’S MOST INFLUENTIAL HOMES MAGAZINE BRAND, LIVINGETC

FABRICA by A2Dominion reveals unique brand partnership with the UK’s most influential homes magazine brand, Livingetc, who will provide the stunning interiors vision for Amber Parkside – the only design-led development of family homes in Cranleigh, Surrey. 

In close collaboration with FABRICA, the Livingetc team will design and dress the marketing suite and three show homes, to complement the 54 architecturally-bold and beautiful two – five-bedroom homes, the first of which are due to complete in summer 2021. 

Rosie Nesbitt, Group Director Sales & Marketing, FABRICA says, “Livingetc’s belief in blending beauty, utility and quality make them the perfect partner for Amber Parkside. Together, we want to inspire people through bold, elegant interiors and exteriors, that reflect our unique vision for modern living, and most importantly the cosmopolitan mindset of our potential buyers.” 

The show homes will consist of three striking interior styles that encapsulate the Livingetc aesthetic, the architecture of the houses being the perfect backdrop to these takes on contemporary style. Aimed at families looking for an authentic connection to nature, is the show home concept, Into the Woods, using natural materials, texture and modern rustic touches. This easy-to-live-with look taps into the trend for a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. 

For homeowners leaving the city to start a family, the show home Refined Industrial takes a softer approach to theedgy urban look; with a more refined finish that utilises black lines and architectural shapes, offering an easy transition from one lifestyle to the other.

The Modern Decorative concept is brought to life with on-trend hits of colour and pattern in key pieces of furniture and accessories that add interest and personality without being overpowering. This look is ideal for design-led couples, families, downsizers or empty nesters who want affordability without compromising on style. 

 Through Livingetc’s network of trusted design brands and crafts people, the show homes will blend high street with high end feature pieces, ensuring the looks are aspirational yet attainable and can be easily recreated. Just some of the brands, which help define the Livingetc aesthetic, include, Andrew Martin, Christopher Farr, Colefax and Fowler, Conran Shop, Heal's, Hem, Julian Chichester, Larusi, Little Greene, Love Your Home, Sebastian Cox, Soho Home, Tom Faulker and Tom Raffield. 

Pip McCormac, Editor, Livingetc, adds, “This is the first time Livingetc has put its name to a development. We knew as soon as we met with FABRICA that we shared the same vision for quality design and could help bring the bold architectural aesthetic to life with equally bold interior design concepts. We all agreed that those who would make Amber Parkside their home, would likely have a natural eye for design, so our show homes would really have to stand out and capture the different demands of modern family life in an innovative way.” 

Amber Parkside will perfectly blend innovative interiors and bold Scandi-meets-New England style architectural design, within a picturesque countryside location. Expansive green areas, countryside vistas and glorious parkland trails will characterise this unique new Surrey neighbourhood.  Cranleigh, the largest village in England, is close by and merges pastoral charm with a lively, established community. The cobbled high street of Guildford is only 20 minutes away, where trains run regularly to central London for commuters. 

Amber Parkside launches to market in spring 2021, with viewings at the Marketing Suite by appointment only. Prices on request.

To find out more and register interest in the scheme please visit: amberparkside.com 

Amber Parkside, Cranleigh

Carter Jonas Calls for Extension of Stamp Duty ‘Holiday’ For First Time Buyers and For Wider Economic Stability

In the latest January market report by national property consultancy, Carter Jonas, the case to extend The Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) ‘holiday’ beyond 31st March 2021 is made. Citing ‘The Multiplier Effect’ as one of the main motivators for helping to stabilise the economy, the report also suggests that supporting first-time buyers specifically is a must to maintain a robust market.  

 THE MULTIPLIER EFFECT

 Lisa Simon, Head of Residential, Carter Jonas says, “Clearly the housing market has been a very strong, robust and active sector for the last few months, and this is happening at a time when much of the rest of the economy is still struggling or growing at a slower speed. Following months of the global COVID-19 pandemic and its associated restrictions and lockdown measures, the UK economy has yet to return to pre-pandemic output levels. The housing market, however, is not just past pre-pandemic figures, in many cases it is reaching 5-10-year record rates.

 “A strong and growing housing market contributes to the wider economy and reflects consumer confidence, and this then leads to greater spending patterns and ultimately job creation. On a micro-economic level, buying and selling homes contributes to growth, as it stimulates additional expenditure in the local economy."

 Carter Jonas describes this as ‘The Multiplier Effect' – the accompanying spending associated with a house transaction, in both newly built homes and second-hand homes, benefits economic output as it requires materials, professionals, retail services, and creates jobs.

 Direct industries affected in the property sector, include estate agents, conveyancers, surveyors, mortgage brokers, banks and lenders. Those indirectly affected include, builders, architects, painters and decorators, interior designers, plumbers and electricians, who rely on the act of people moving to a new house for new business. Finally, there are those impacted by the spending on goods and services once a move has occurred, such as paint suppliers, home furnishing outlets and wellness or home brands - the ripple effect is dramatic.

 RELIEVING 'ON THE BOOKS’ PRESSURE

 An extension would help alleviate the backlog of paperwork that is a result of current rates of house sales, mortgage approvals and transaction levels running at a 10-year high. 

Conveyancers across the country have suggested that the current workload is so high that they are straining to deal with the volume of work that needs to be processed, and sales are subsequently taking longer to exchange contracts. If there is a large pipeline of agreed sales still ‘on the books’ come in the next few weeks, then Carter Jonas suggests that an extension may be necessary to get those over the line.

Across its 33 London and regional offices, Carter Jonas is experiencing high demand, with buyers wanting to capitalise on the stamp duty levy and make lifestyle changes, but who are being thwarted by a system that is struggling to cope with the current climate. 

 Rupert Reeves, Head of Residential Sales for Newbury at Carter Jonas says, “Due to Covid-19, reduced teams, and home-schooling pressures, many solicitors and surveyors are struggling to meet work deadlines, and it now takes longer to buy or sell a house than ever before. Understandably, there is a frustration felt by buyers and sellers, so giving everyone in the process some leeway will help get more deals over the line.”

 KEEPING FIRST TIME BUYERS IN THE GAME 

With vaccines now being rolled out, there is optimism that the economy should begin to recover over the coming months. At the same time, with the SDLT holiday coming to an end, it is anticipated that housing market activity is set to decline as demand from some sources will decrease, slowing the upward pressure on prices. 

 First-time buyers account for 35% of all purchases every year. Carter Jonas’ latest market report suggests that if the SDLT holiday is extended for up to six more months for this group, there will be one source of demand that remains robust and growing, and it is the cohort of buyers who would benefit most from the tax break.

 Lisa Simon, continues, "This group has been disproportionately disadvantaged by the current strength in the housing market: rising house prices push a purchase yet further out of reach for first-time buyers. This group have also been disadvantaged by the large-scale removal of higher LTV mortgages that we have seen throughout 2020. Last year 90% + LTV mortgages accounted for around 20% of all mortgage products, this has decreased to around 5% now, and these are the products that many first-time buyers would normally need.” 

Therefore, extending the SDLT holiday at a time when the market could enter a period of subdued activity would not only help those that need it most in an economic downturn but would help multiple industries continue to function and prosper at an uncertain time.

Bridgerton-Inspired Homes

At Elevate PR, there’s one thing we’ve been excited about this lockdown and that’s the latest binge-worthy period drama to grace our screens on Netflix, Bridgerton. To give us our royal fix until the second series, we have selected some of the most impressive regal residences currently on the market with our clients Harrods Estates, Carter Jonas and Royalton Residences, complete with magnificent cut-glass chandeliers, spiral staircases and exquisite architectural style.

Wilton Place, on the market with Harrods Estates

This five-bedroom Georgian townhouse, on Wilton Place in the heart of Belgravia, is anticipated to get pulses racing and fans-a-fluttering due to its Regency charm and period features, such as illustrious chandeliers, sumptuous furnishings, ceiling roses and intricate cornices. The large first-floor drawing room makes for an ideal reception room to receive high-society guests and adjoins a generous study with a charming west-facing terrace. There is superb open-plan kitchen / family room leading to a delightful patio on the lower ground floor, bedecked with a flower-garden mural and outdoor seating to entertain a companion. There is a bedroom on the second, third, fourth and fifth floors which have their own ensuite and built-in wardrobes – the perfect place to store one’s ballgowns and tiaras. Benefiting from 21st century touches, the property also has a newly installed lift – providing access to all principal floors and one of the guest bedrooms – as well as air conditioning throughout. The property is available to let furnished or unfurnished with Harrods Estates for £7,500 per week and £32,500 per calendar month *plus property fees.

Magna Carta Park, a new development by Royalton Group 

Magna Carta Park, from residential developer Royalton Residences, epitomises the quintessentially British architectural style for which any period drama is favoured. Set on an exclusive private estate in the heart of Surrey, Magna Carta Park is a collection of 57 beautifully designed homes within 57 acres of ancient woodland and landscaped gardens – close to the site of the eponymous King John treaty. Comprising 23 houses, 10 townhouses and 24 apartments across three mansion blocks, the properties range from one-bedroom apartments to five bedrooms homes. The luxurious development has been achieved via the partnership of celebrated architect Julian Bicknell and Associates and prestigious interior designer, Louise Bradley.

A significant amount of the architectural design embraces the Regency period and would be an ideal abode for a Bridgerton or Featherington. The clean, stuccoed fashion of this era is seen across the development and adds a sense of luxury to the homes. Furthermore, the layouts have been arranged to provide each household with beautiful views over the estate, as well as access to large areas of garden or private terraces that lead onto the expansive English countryside. The Magna Carta Park estate enjoys sweeping views over Windsor, with a picture-frame view of Windsor Castle and the Long Walk from the Great Lawn at the centre of the development. The properties range from one-bedroom apartments of 1141 sq ft to five-bedroom homes of 4495 sq ft. with prices from £1,000,000 to £4,500,000.

Ingmanthorpe Hall, on the market with Carter Jonas

Formerly the ballroom, the West Wing of this magnificent signature Grade II listed mansion house now forms a unique elegant residence of over 3,700 sq ft. Maintaining many of the original period features, this regal home comprises four bedrooms – two with ensuite bathrooms – a grand communal reception hallway, as well as a spacious kitchen / breakfast room. One of the key period features of the property is the magnificent drawing / dining room complete with a marble fireplace, American oak flooring, tall picture windows, in addition to two sets of French doors opening onto the pristine gardens and a wine cellar, perfect for a summer soirée with high-society guests. Leading from the drawing room, a spiral staircase provides access to a spacious mezzanine floor, an ideal space for a 21st century home office. Ingmanthorpe Hall is set in a stunning semi-rural location in North Yorkshire, within one and a half miles of the market town of Wetherby and is on the market with Carter Jonas for £1,000,000. 

Wilton Place, on the market with Harrods Estates

Relaxing Retreats to beat the January Blues

As January kick starts, the team at Elevate PR is dreaming of the ultimate homes to relax, rewind and replenish – but with lockdown restrictions tightened, we don’t seem to be the only ones. This month, our client Carter Jonas has seen an outstanding 425% increase in new buyer registrations and a 147% increase in internet enquiries compared to the last week in December*.

Prime Central London buying agents, Black Brick and Luxury realtors Harrods Estates are equally seeing spikes in website traffic and enquiries on Sunday and Friday evenings respectively as home movers start scrolling. To help lift the January blues, we have selected our top UK properties and new developments for a fresh start in 2021.

Overlooking its own private lake and unspoilt open countryside in North Duffield, York, Waterside Lodge appeals to those looking for an idyllic and relaxing country escape. The contemporary property offers generous and beautifully appointed rooms, including four bedrooms – each with ensuite bath/shower rooms – a self-contained stylish one-bedroom annex and separate two-story building for use as a games room and home office. The open plan living space on the ground floor of the property leads seamlessly out to the decking and an acre of gardens which wrap around the lodge, home to a golf green and chipping area for sports enthusiasts. Waterside Lodge is on the market with Carter Jonas, with offers over £895,000.

Aspen at Consort Place offers the ultimate sky-high escape for those looking to relax with their head in the clouds. The elegant 65-storey tower provides exceptional and exquisite apartment living amidst a vibrant and cosmopolitan new community with astonishing views of London’s iconic landmarks and beyond. Aspen will offer a remarkable collection of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with interiors expertly designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA Residential). 

The development will feature The Aspen Club, located on levels 21 and 22, which has been carefully designed to enhance the residents' lifestyle. There are a wealth of amenities on offer including a private dining and wine room, a business lounge, screening room and the peaceful oasis of a winter garden. The Club’s health and wellness areas, comprises a fitness gym with state-of-the-art equipment, sauna and steam room, changing rooms and a relaxing vitality pool from which to enjoy the sweeping views. Apartments are on the market with Knight Frank starting from £563,000. 

For those looking to get fit in the new year, Harrods Estates is letting Ennismore Garden Mews, a stunning property in the heart of Knightsbridge that will make it possible from the comfort of your own home. Complete with a Life Fitness fitted gym and luxurious sauna, this dreamy property is set over three floors, with two bedrooms and an abundance of natural light throughout. Refurbished to an exceptional standard, this property also has a gorgeous, spacious kitchen with a glass ceiling – offering beautiful views of the internal terrace above. It is priced at £3,250 per week and £14,083 per calendar month.

Located a short distance from the beautiful gardens and green open spaces of Alexander Palace and Hampstead Heath, Hornsey Town Hall offers a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments adjacent to the historic Hornsey Town Hall in Crouch End, North London. Spread across two new build blocks, a mews building and a Broadway annex, this landmark development will include an Arts Centre and hotel set within the meticulously restored Town Hall, as well as a hotel rooftop bar with spectacular views over London. The new and improved Town Hall Square, when reopened, will provide escapism, alongside the development’s numerous communal courtyards and landscaped gardens for residents. 

The spirit and style of Hornsey Town Hall has been captured throughout the apartment schemes, which will be evident in the façades, where layered brickwork and carefully crafted geometric metal balustrades come together to reflect the Town Hall’s original Art Deco features and modernist aesthetic. The homes will be finished to the highest standard throughout, with some featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and chevron timber flooring, and most will feature balconies, terraces or gardens. Prices start from £499,950 for a one-bedroom apartment and £644,950 for a two-bedroom apartment.

For those looking to keep their health in check, the luxurious Magna Carta Park estate is now offering a unique ‘optimised wellness’ healthcare package to all its residents. The 57-acre development, which comprises 23 houses, 10 townhouses and 24 apartments across three mansion blocks, enjoys a grand, elevated position offering sweeping views over Windsor, with a picture-frame view of Windsor Castle and the Long Walk from the Great Lawn at the centre. 

Residents will be provided 24-hour access to a team of private medical experts and cutting-edge wellness treatments, all from the comfort of their own home. Working exclusively with The Mews Practice, Magna Carta Park will charge residents a subscription fee to access an extensive range of private GP services. Residents will also have free access to the Audley Club, providing a spa and therapies, heated indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness studio, restaurant and bar. Designed by celebrated architect Julian Bicknell & Associates, and prestigious interior designer, Louise Bradley, the properties range from one-bedroom apartments of 1141 sq ft to five-bedroom homes of 4495 sq ft. with prices from £1,000,000 to £4,500,000.

*4th – 10th January 2021 compared to 21st – 27th December 2020

Waterside Lodge, on the market with Carter Jonas

A warm welcome to our newest team member at Elevate PR

As we start a new year, we are thrilled to welcome @GraceVerdon to the Elevate PR team. Grace joins us from the consumer and travel PR world as an experienced Account Manager, having worked agency-side for clients in North America. She handled media relations for tourist boards based in California, Colorado and Pennsylvania, hotels including Post Ranch Inn, ski resorts such as Aspen Snowmass, as well as the Lufthansa Group airlines. 

Grace comes with great experience in launching hotels, marketing destinations, hosting press, as well as managing influencer campaigns and events across the UK, all skills she will utilise as her focus turns to property PR. 

Grace has also worked in-house for women’s retailer Hobbs London in its US office, launching new stores in New York and Connecticut. In addition to PR and marketing, she was responsible for managing numerous brand partnerships and in-store events, including those with Farrow & Ball and local estate agents, to increase brand awareness in a new market.

 Her passion for PR has seen her secure countless pieces of coverage in national newspapers and magazines and she looks forward to bringing new ideas, along with her interest in property, to the team at Elevate PR.

 Grace will work across FABRICA by A2 Dominion, Euroterra Capital, Hornsey Town Hall for FEC and Black Brick with Camilla Dell. 

 You can reach Grace on grace@elevatepr.co.uk / 07494 141613.

Grace Verdon