I Squared Property’s latest new build project

Latest New Build Project

I Squared Property’s Latest New Build Project started out a while ago now.  It is now completed and it is fabulous.  However, I want to talk to you about new builds and the problems we can face.

We love to take on land and building fantastic properties for our tenants to build their families in the homes we build.  But, that doesn’t mean we don’t have to be adaptable, because we do.  More than ever!!  WE have to think on our feet and be able to make changes where necessary; more often than not for the better too!!

One of our problems

This latest new build project came with numerous issues.  The drains and the school behind our property being a biggie!!

We had to contact the school  because of the drainage.

Crazy I know, but it should have been done at foundation level.  It wasn’t because of a last minute notification of a potential to tap into the main drains.   At the last minute the property manager, for the school, completely moved the goal posts.  This made things more difficult than they needed to be.

We reached an agreement eventually!

However, we did come to an agreement.  This agreement started off a £5k then to £7k and involved writing into the term that the school could move the drains at any time.  However, they were stipulating this would be at the cost of the homeowners.

Of course, nobody would agree to buy a home with that condition in place and we knew this.  So, we had to think on our feet and keep negotiating.

It did seem that it became all about the money, to the school.  We knew we had to sort this out and of course we did!  Not until we had been backwards and forwards via email, had numerous phone calls and not to mention the extra costs to us in solicitors’ fees.  Finally it was all agreed and we settled at £8,000.

A good job for contingencies, we thought at the time….

Lockdown

The drainage is just one of the points I am mentioning.  It was just a biggie and, at the time, it was very frustrating!!

As if it couldn’t get any worse.  Lockdown hit and things became a little more difficult.  We didn’t know if we were even going to be able to continue the builds.  Although, I Squared Property Ltd rarely let anything get in our way.  Even something as massive as a national pandemic.

We knew supplies were limited and, of course, in high demand by so many.  But, because we have built such good relationships, along the way, we managed to get what we needed.

Build relationships

Just goes to show, relationships and team work are key to every project.  We make it our priority to always work with people we trust and who we can have the best relationships possible.  It is like a partnership.

What is that saying?  ‘Team work makes the dream work!’.  Well, that is how we work.  As a team!

Because of our fantastic relationship with our suppliers, they came through for use and we were able to carry on and keep to schedule.

Drain Easement

So back to the drains!!

In case you wondered, drainage easements allow municipal workers or other entities access to properties to make repairs so that water will not pool or flood.

In that sense, drainage easements are a plus, as no one wants flooding on their land. Otherwise, the homeowner has full use of the easement.

Drainage easements are very common, and many people are unaware of their existence on their property unless they consult their deed or work is required.

So, you can see why we had to get ours sorted.

The Roof

The roof was installed on all three houses in 2 ½ days which was a fantastic result.  We were so impressed by this.

Because of the speedy turnaround, it meant we could move onto the installation of the windows.  This was making the external part of the houses complete.  Obviously, installing windows meant the houses would be water tight, meaning we could move inside.

This means we are getting closer to the décor part, which of course is one of my (Laura’s) favourite parts.

Plaster

The lockdown did create a massive shortage on plaster.  I think everyone within the building world felt this. We had 2 pallets on order, yet only one arrived.

At least the plasterers could make a start and eventually the 2^nd pallet came, however, it did feel like we were on the back foot.  We don’t like to work this way.  But we did well, considering what was happening in the world.

Back on track

That is it we were on schedule for the contractor was due to start.

The school was between terms and this was the only time they would let us do the work.  The pressure was on.  We had to excavate part of the car park to lay the drainage to connect.  So this was a massive task!

Two days before and our contractors called us to say that unfortunately he was unable to take the job due to family issues.

We couldn’t write it.  It was crazy, we tried everything and called everyone we could think of.

This was not good and we were thinking that’s it we are going to have to wait and do the ground works in October, due to this being the next school holiday.

We had actually scheduled to have completed the project by October, so clearly this was not what we wanted.

Noooo….

That night I could not sleep!  My mind was racing and thinking, ‘what can we do, who can we contact?

However, the Law of Attraction worked it’s magic and the following day we had a call from a friend of a friend.

Guess what, this friend of a friend had just had a job pushed back and he would be able to take our contract on for the drainage and groundwork.  How amazing!!  See, back to building those great relationships.

We have never felt such a sense of relief all systems go again!  Let the rollercoaster of property continue.

The ground works

The ground works went to plan with no more issues.  However, when it came to curb stones our main contactor had a knee injury so we were left short.

Not to worry as few local developers we have relationships with sent over some workers to cover for a few days.

This was great, but, we really needed someone on a more long term basis to finish the job.  Unfortunately, the main contractor could not return to work, so we had to try an agency.

This worked out.  Of course, we had to kiss a few frogs, but we had a few good lads in the end and the job was completed.  We were very happy.

Internals

Onto the internals of the property.  I love this bit and I am pleased to say we had very few issues.

The only issues we had were from a few delivery issues with Howdens, but, we were pleased with how the job was running to time and the end was in sight.

Plot 3 was the first property to be finished and sell.  However, still to this day, February, as I write this the buyers are unfortunately stuck in a chain.  This worked out ok, as the house was dressed and we were able to use it as the show home.

Staging

We used one of the plots as a show home and used V R Staging to dress the property.

We really wanted to give potential buyers the feel that they could see themselves living in here and grow a family in these spacious homes.

The agents we have worked with have really gone above and beyond.  We were very happy that all three plots were sold before November 2020

We had our first people move in!!  In January and the new owners are enjoying their new home.

An experience

What can I say, the projects have come to an end.  Of course, we are on with our next one.

But, just to reflect on these for a few minutes.

We have certainly learnt a lot from this project.  I can honestly say, we have loved it and cannot wait to move onto the developments we have in the pipeline for 2021 and beyond.

I think we can rightly say we are so proud of these properties.  Not just the end results, but the way we managed all of the obstacles along the way.  Not to mention the national pandemic, that everyone is struggling with.  To be able to bring a little joy for a few people with these beautiful homes, really has been the cherry on the cake, for us.

It’s official!

For a while we didn’t have a road name.  Well, guess what?  Now we do!!

We have an official road name…   Woohoo!!

Because of the newly official road name, our development is now known as ‘The Middlecroft Development’.  I Squared Property’s latest new build project.

Grateful

We are so grateful to everyone involved in our latest new build project and many other of our projects at I Squared Property Ltd.

We are looking forward to growing our existing relationships with contractors and other builders.

Of course, not to mention the fantastic relationships we have with our existing investors and also building relationships with our new investors.

Be back soon

We will keep bringing you up to date information about Sheffield, I Squared Properties and what we are up to and new developments we are taking on.

Speak soon

Laura and James

Case Studies

Who are we?

HS2 and its effects on Sheffield

HS2 and its effects on Sheffield

What is it?

I am chatting about HS2 and its effects on Sheffield.  But firstly what is HS2, I hear you ask?  Well, it is a new high speed railway linking up London, the Midlands, the North and Scotland.  It is serving over 25 stations, including eight of Britain’s 10 largest cities and connecting around 30 million people.

The construction of the new railway is split into three phases – Phase One linking London and the West Midlands; Phase 2a linking the West Midlands and the North via Crewe; and Phase 2b completing the railway to Manchester and Leeds.

How does it work?

By building a new railway line, HS2 takes fast trains off the existing railway and places them on to their own dedicated tracks.

This is better connecting our major towns and cities.  Of course, this then allows slower, local trains to bunch up on the existing lines.  Which then frees up space across the country for many more commuter services and freight trains.

Economic Growth

HS2 is set to bring transformational economic growth to cities and regions across the UK.   There are some huge development opportunities which it could unlock.  One of those areas is Yorkshire!!

The positive impacts HS2 are believed to be ‘very positive for Sheffield City Region’. The economic benefits of high speed rail come not just from the productivity benefits of faster journey times.  It is also the regeneration that occurs around the stations and the access to a larger labour market enhanced connectivity creates.  But, that’s only part of the economic story.

It is not just about speed

HS2 isn’t just about the speed of travel between cities.  It’s around increase capacity, and therefore a focus on integrating it into the regions current transport networks is key to enabling growth.

This connectivity is key to Sheffield but not just from HS2.  It is also between the East and West which ‘is as, if not more, important’ than the improved connectivity to the capital.  Ensuring strong linked to Manchester and Liverpool in the West and Hull and Leeds within Yorkshire can only aid economic growth.  It is all aiding the Northern Powerhouse Initiative.

It’s vital that HS2 is accompanied by drastically improved services to Leeds and Manchester.  Whilst HS2 also remains key to staying competitive and attracting investment.  Sheffield has recently attracted Boeing Airlines, McLaren Automotive and retail giant Pretty Little Thing to the region, and inward investment conversations are now ‘at an all time high’.

HS2 is certainly aiding those conversations.  With the transformation of the city set to boost the number of those living in the region, whilst creating jobs and development sites throughout Yorkshire.

2018

2018 started plans on what the Sheffield station and the surrounding area will look like.  There were major opportunities for regeneration around the Sheaf Valley.  This is also linking different modes of transport and ensuring future capacity for growth in passenger numbers is not compromised.

Promoting the Parkway station serving South Yorkshire will ensure HS2 growth is realised across the wider region.  Whilst ensuring appropriate local connectivity is in place for all areas including Doncaster Sheffield Airport.  There is also a new Rail College in Doncaster and this will be key to providing the innovative and future proofing education.  This is much needed for students and the younger generation within Sheffield.

The most successful cities, right across the world, are those that benefit from good connectivity and HS2 will deliver that.  Often people don’t think about the conscious decisions that businesses make when choosing where to locate.  But connectivity is without doubt one of the leading factors.

Being accessible to customers, suppliers and a skilled workforce is crucial for any business to success.   There is already evidence of big businesses choosing to leave the capital.  They are then relocating to other parts of the country with good road, rail and transport links.

Sheffield area

Sheffield City Centre and the towns and businesses surrounding it such as Rotherham, Barnsley and Wakefield, will be able to draw talent from across the East Midlands and West Yorkshire.  Even further afield once the infrastructure is in place.  This will make the region a hugely attractive area for businesses to set up.

The importance of infrastructure between between northern cities such as Sheffield, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle and Hull could help challenge the dominance of London.

HS3, or Northern Powerhouse Rail, is not an extra but it’s actually central to the vision of transforming the rail network in Yorkshire and help to re-balance the economy!!

This is definitely putting Sheffield and other Northern areas on the map of importance to the UK’s economy.

Be back soon

We will keep bringing you up to date information about Sheffield, I Squared Properties and what we are up to and new developments we are taking on.

Speak soon

Laura and James

Case Studies

Who are we?

Sheffield’s Universities

Sheffield University

The heart of the UK

Sheffield universities are just a part of what makes Sheffield a really popular choice for international students.

At the heart of the UK, Sheffield brings a unique mix of vibrant city life, green spaces and friendly diversity.  Its sports and culture are world renowned and the local scenery is second to none.

Together, the red brick university and Sheffield Hallam University offer students a learning experience like no other.

I want to chat about the reasons that say Sheffield really is a fantastic city and the universities make a big part of these reasons!

Its world class universities

Built around its world beating universities, those that come to study at Sheffield often stay for good.  The University of Sheffield is a world top 100 university and a member of the prestigious Russell Group.

Sheffield Hallam University was awarded the University of the Year for Teaching Quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide in 2020.

Between them, they offer a diverse range of courses with excellent graduation rates, inbuilt work experience and partnerships with leading organisations.  Bursaries and financial support are also available to international students, so whatever your aspirations and needs, Sheffield can help you excel.

Better yet, each campus offers hi-tech, hi-spec facilities, meaning you’ll learn in cutting-edge environments with industry-leading tutors.  Then after a day of learning, unwind and re-energise at your pick of university leisure and social centres, designed to help you make the most of university life.

The city is diverse, affordable and safe

Attracting students from 150 countries around the world, Sheffield is proud of its diverse community. You won’t need to go far to find international shops, social groups and even friends. And, with its welcoming community, you’ll feel right at home right away.

Global cuisine is no exception. Sheffield offers a mouth-watering mix of restaurants serving food from all around the world. As well as food markets like Ozmen International and Moor Market where you’ll find every ingredient you’d ever need.

What’s more, Sheffield is the safest large city in the UK.  It’s also one of the top 10 most affordable UK university cities, well below the national average.

Thanks to its student community, you’ll find discounts around every corner. So not only can you explore the city with confidence, but your money will let you go further and do more too.

Sheffield’s green spaces!!

Sheffield is known as the ‘Green City’.  With two million trees and 250 parks and green spaces, it’s one of the greenest cities in Europe.

From Weston Park’s prime picnic spots to the green lawns of Endcliffe Park, Sheffield offers plenty of space to stroll, cycle, run or just relax.  Seek secluded spots among the tropical plants at the Botanical Gardens.  Or, if cycling’s your thing, take to the trails at Lady Canning’s Plantation or the wild corridors of the River Valley routes.

Better still, the nearby Peak District has plenty to offer when it comes to outdoor pursuits.  From trails and routes for hiking to mountain biking, caving and rock climbing, it’s the perfect place for all the adrenaline junkies out there.

The only question: where to explore first?

It has a vibrant city centre and social scene

Sheffield is the fifth biggest city in England.

This means, wherever you’re living and whatever you want to do, there’s something for everyone in its urban neighbourhoods.

Of course in Sheffield’s cultural district, you’ll find theatres, cinemas and art galleries galore.  There are often discounted tickets for students and many of the galleries and museums are free to enter.

West Street and Division Street offer vintage clothing, quirky shops and a vibrant mix of restaurants, pubs and bars.

And, on the city’s edge, the award-winning industrial quarter is home to some of the city’s best bars, bakeries, night markets and food halls, plus traditional pubs and the amazing industrial museum.

Not just universities

Sheffield universities are just a part of what make up this amazing city.

Sheffield is nestled in the heart of the UK with other big cities and everything else in easy reach.  Close by are the rolling hills of The Pennines, the traditional villages of the Yorkshire Dales, the magnificent Lake District and the rustic charm of the seafaring coast with its pristine Blue Flag beaches.

Sheffield also has a range of easily accessible and affordable transport links. So whether you want to find yourself in the Scottish Highlands or get lost down London’s backstreets, you’re never more than a short ride from home.

But it’s not just an ideal base for exploring the UK.  It also gives you access to the whole of Europe too.

Pretty good, hey?

What do we do?

Here are some of our projects.  Have a look at them and take a look at this feedback from one of our clients:

‘James and Laura worked very hard to source a property, fully renovated it and sell it for us.

To say we were impressed, is an understatement.  Their work ethics, the quality of work and the return on our money is fantastic.  We would definitely recommend them for anybody who wants good, honest, hardworking people who actually work to make you money’
Karen and Ross McKinley

You can see they are very happy and because of this it makes us happy.

Take a look for yourself at our You Tube channel

Be back soon

We will keep bringing you up to date information about Sheffield, I Squared Properties and what we are up to and new developments we are taking on.

If you want to have a conversation on how we may be able to help please just get in touch here.

Speak soon

Laura and James

Case Studies

Who are we?

Interest rates are so low… am I effected?

What is an interest rate?

You may be wondering what interest rates are and how they effect you.  Believe it or not, they do in many ways.  We all generally know an interest rate is a percentage charged on the total amount you borrow or save from a bank.

I think we all know, for the past few years.  Well, the past 15 or more really, interest rates have been so low.

Because of this, our savings are not really working for us are they?

How am I affected?

The change may be very small and it seems insignificant, but even a small change in interest rates can have a big impact.  It’s important to keep an eye on whether they rise, fall or stay the same.

Borrower – the interest rate is the amount you are charged for borrowing money.  Usually a percentage of the total amount of the loan.  The interest is what you pay for the privilege of borrowing.

Saver, it’s the same except the interest is paid to you!  Sounds good doesn’t it?  It’s the bank that have the privilege of your money.

The problem

Now, the current problem is the interest rates are so low!!  So, basically, you are not getting anything back for the privilege of the bank having your money! That doesn’t sound fair does it?

Banks and the interest rates

The interest rates were slashed from 0.75% – 0.25% and then again to 0.1%!!

What can you do?

To be honest, there are so many options available to you.  So, please do not worry!

What we do is work with our investors, so that you have the confidence to know your money is working for you.

You will not be getting negative rates, put it that way!

If you want to have a conversation on how we may be able to help please just get in touch here.

Take a look

Here are some of our projects.  Have a look at them and take a look at this feedback from one of our clients:

‘James and Laura worked very hard to source a property, fully renovated it and sell it for us.

To say we were impressed, is an understatement.  Their work ethics, the quality of work and the return on our money is fantastic.  We would definitely recommend them for anybody who wants good, honest, hardworking people who actually work to make you money’
Karen and Ross McKinley

You can see they are very happy and because of this it makes us happy.

Take a look for yourself at our You Tube channel

Be back soon

We will keep bringing you up to date information about Sheffield, I Squared Properties and what we are up to and new developments we are taking on.

Speak soon

Laura and James

Case Studies

Who are we?

Strength of the initiative of the Northern Power House

The strength of the initiative

When the Northern Powerhouse initiative was introduced it had clarity of purpose and vision.  However, it also raised some thoughts.  For example…

If the cluster of cities in the North West could be better connected, with with residents in Leeds and Manchester in particular.  Of course not forgetting Liverpool, Sheffield and other surrounding towns brought together in a single labour market.  What powers would those cities need in order to deliver on this vision?

Questions?

This prompted many questions.  Such as:

How could we create a “Greater London” urban system in the North?

How could we scale it to compete globally on growth, trade and investment?

What would be the gains locally, regionally and nationally?

Answers

We did not have to wait long for answers.

For example a major new devolution deal announced for Greater Manchester and infrastructure projects.  Such as those like the  High Speed 3 to better connect it with Leeds proposed to kick start delivering on this vision.

Favouring

But, as ever in politics, clarity comes at a cost.  Particularly when it means appearing to preference some places or people over others.

Most notably, the rolling out of ‘Manchester-like’ devolution deals to other parts of the North has been badged as being a key part of the Northern Powerhouse.

While these deals are important for individual places.  They don’t necessarily bring us any closer to achieving the initial aims of creating a “Greater London” in the North.

And, even if Liverpool and Sheffield will now benefit from devolved powers.  It seems the Leeds City Region, one of the areas most fundamental to the Northern Powerhouse, is without a devolution deal.

Progress to date…

It is fair to say that there has been some progress in six years.  The major success of the Northern Powerhouse has been in devolving power to mayors and creating transport for the North.

Strengths of the initiative since 2014:

• 5 ‘metro mayor’ elections have been held – in Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, Tees Valley, Sheffield City Region and the North of Tyne.
• 47.1 per cent of the North is now governed by a Mayor.
• 69.6 per cent of the North is now covered by a combined authority.
• Transport for the North – a new regional transport organisation – has brought forward a £70 billion investment package.

The strength of the initiative in property

Now, seen as we are all about property at I Squared Property.  We have to mention that over half of Britain’s best buy to let postcodes are in the Northern Powerhouse!!  How amazing is that?

In a recent study looking at the best buy to let postcodes in the UK for rental yields, over half of the postcodes were in the Northern Powerhouse.  Liverpool’s L7 postcode was top, but Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield were all in the top 25 too.

Alternative Investments

What we do is work with our investors, so that you have the confidence to know your money is working for you.

If you want to have a conversation on how we may be able to help please just get in touch here.

Be back soon

We will keep bringing you up to date information about Sheffield, I Squared Properties and what we are up to and new developments we are taking on.

Speak soon

Laura and James

Case Studies

Who are we?