**It’s been a year of positive change here at Yorkshire Country Properties. We’re so appreciative of the warmth and friendliness of our local community and the benefits of living and working in Yorkshire.**

It seems like only yesterday when we began the year with a key appointment in Paul Brown as our managing director, who brought with him significant experience in both the residential and commercial development sectors and we have continued to build up our team with **[six other key appointments](/news/flourishing-yorkshire-country-properties-strengthens-management-team)** both on site and in the office throughout the year to continually improve our customer service.

By March we had begun to start making a name for ourselves, introducing our **[stunning range of homes](/developments/)** to the house buyers of Yorkshire. And with a range of 22 house types to choose from we cater for a variety of tastes, so there’s bound to be a style that is perfect for you!

From one-bed starter homes (which won us the Gold award at the recent prestigious What House awards in London) right up to our five-bedroom family homes – all are built in natural tumbled Yorkshire stone and located in some of the Huddersfield region’s most picturesque locations.

YCP stunning range of homes

Our buyers really appreciate the quality, thought and craftsmanship that goes into each and every one of our homes and we regularly receive glowing testimonials from them, which are delightful.

Remember, too, that all our homes are designed with access to the outdoors from a primary living area, a feature which we think is vital to provide the option to extend your living space outside and during the warmer months, create a good work-life balance.

As a business that is focused on putting our customers first, as well as building beautiful new homes, May saw us **[launch our Customer Experience Hub](/news/customer-experience-launch)** at Knowle Grange in Shepley.

We invite you to come and chat to us here at any time, so we can help you with any queries and take you through the range of fabulous upgrades we have available.

Our Customer Experience Hub is fitted out with many of the upgrades, so that you can see for yourself, just how perfect your new dream home could be. In fact, the majority of our new homes have a variety of personalisation options so that they can be designed around your unique needs.

In November, we were delighted to gain **[national recognition at the What House Awards](/news/whathouse-awards-success)** – not only did we win a Gold (did we mention that 😊) but we also picked up a Bronze award for Best Small Housebuilder.  Given our relatively recent arrival to the market, we are over the moon to be recognised by our professional peers in this way so soon.  It has been a massive team effort right across the company.

YCP national recognition at the What House Awards 

And let’s not forget our amazing aftercare team too, who, have also been turning heads during 2023. Always at hand for customers throughout the home moving process - before they move in, and there on move-in day too, helping to make a stressful day easy and enjoyable.

So as we reach the end of the year, we have 147 new homes under development across our three sites in **[Shepley](/developments/knowle-grange)**, **[Skelmanthorpe](/developments/whistle-bell-court)** and **[Denby Dale](/developments/the-willows)** which are proving extremely popular, with further developments planned in 2024. 

First to begin early in the year is our exciting new development at Grange Moor, where we will be building ten contemporary bungalows.  Look out for more information on these coming soon.

And in the meantime, we have just released 12 stunning new homes to the market across **[all three of our development locations](/developments/)**.  Featuring a selection of three, four and five-bedroom homes, which range in price from £315,000 - £650,000, there’s a beautiful new home just waiting for you! 

Once the festivities are over, why not pay us a visit at the Customer Experience Hub, enjoy a good Yorkshire brew with us and Kirsty will take you through the fabulous range of fixtures, fittings and upgrades you can select when you choose to buy your next home with Yorkshire Country Properties.

Our Customer Experience Hub will be closed from 21 December until 2nd January for the Christmas and New Year holidays, but we are usually open daily from 10am-5pm.

It’s been a year of positive change here at Yorkshire Country Properties - new MD, new developments launched in West Yorkshire and multiple awards won. Read more.

YCP 2023 round up

Browse the properties available across our three developments

We’re chuffed to bits with our success in 2023

Our latest news

Welcome back to Mortgage Mastery with me, David Bussey. In this edition, we will be demystifying mortgage jargon. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just looking for a new place to call home, getting to grips with the plethora of mortgage-related terminology can be overwhelming – so, below is an A-Z of key terminology-related FAQ’s that you may ask yourself when researching mortgages. Knowing the answers will empower you to make informed decisions when it comes to one of the biggest financial commitments of your life. So, let’s get started!  

**What is an Agreement in Principle?**

An Agreement in Principle (AIP), also known as a Mortgage in Principle or Decision in Principle, gives you an understanding of how much you may be able to borrow towards the purchase or remortgage of a property. It's a document that you can use with an estate agent, or those selling a property, to show that you are in a suitable financial position to purchase it. 

All lenders will make a decision on how much a mortgage applicant can borrow by assessing their affordability. This is assessed using the applicants’ income and expenditure. 

General income will consist of salary for the employed and net profits for the self-employed, guaranteed overtime, bonus payments, sustainable allowances, benefit income and pension. 

General Expenditure will consist of monthly credit commitments, including credit card balances; personal loan repayments; car finance; student loans; childcare costs and all monthly expenses that fall under household costs such as utility bills; Council Tax; food and transport.  

The lender will use their own method of calculation so there is no one rule for all. It’s also based on the individuals’ personal circumstances, for example how many dependants they have, their age and the mortgage term.  

Most lenders have Affordability Calculators available on their websites which will give you a good idea of the amount that can be borrowed from that lender. Other lenders may offer a higher or lower mortgage facility. 


**What does APR/APRC stand for?** 

The annual percentage rate of charge (APRC) is the total cost of the loan expressed as an annual percentage.  The APRC is provided to help you compare different offers. 


**What is a Broker/Intermediary?** 

An independent adviser who can help you with mortgages and other financial matters. 

 

**What is a Credit Score?**

Most banks and mortgage lenders use a credit score to determine your ability to pay back the money you have borrowed (via monthly payments). Your personal credit score is affected by money you are already borrowing, such as credit cards, phone loans, car loans etc, and whether you make payments on time or have a history of missed monthly payments.  

Using credit cards as an example, if you miss a payment, your credit score is negatively affected, whereas if you pay your credit card off in full each month, your score is positively affected. The higher your credit score; the more likely you are to get a mortgage because you are seen as financially responsible and low risk. You can keep track of your own personal credit score by visiting a credit referencing agency. The most reliable and mostly used by mortgage lenders are Experian, Equifax and Check My File. 

 
**What is Conveyancing?**

Conveyancing is the legal process involved when ownership of a property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. It can start when your offer is accepted, up until after the sale is completed. 

Purchasing a property is a legal transaction, so your mortgage lender will require you to obtain the services of a qualified solicitor or property Law Conveyancing specialist. This ensures that you are protected and all the legal administrative work is completed correctly. 

***The conveyancer will manage tasks including:***

-handling the contract of exchange – e.g., negotiating any details, if needed 

-dealing with the Land Registry 

-handling local council searches and other formal enquiries 

-reviewing your mortgage offer from the lender 

-collecting and transferring money for the property purchase 

-arranging for payment of Stamp Duty, Land Tax and other payments 

-notifying the freeholder of the sale, if your home is leasehold  

-providing legal guidance. 


**What is a Mortgage Deposit?**

The amount you need to pay towards the total purchase price of the property. This varies depending on the product and lender. Some lenders offer as little as a 5% deposit mortgage for first time buyers. 

 
**What is an Early Repayment Charge (ERC)?**

Some mortgages, such as a fixed rate mortgage, charge a fee if you pay back the loan early. This is known as an ERC. It can vary, so check your original letter of approval or terms and conditions for the amount.  Most lenders, however, will allow overpayments of up to 10% of the mortgage balance in any one year without applying an ERC. 

**What is a Fixed Rate Mortgage?**

A mortgage where the interest rate stays the same for a specific period (e.g. two or five years) even if the base rate changes in the meantime. 

**What does Freehold mean?**

You own both the property and the land it stands on. 

**What is a Gifted Deposit?**

A gifted deposit is when someone else, perhaps a family member, provides the funds for some, or all, of your mortgage deposit. This however must be a genuine gift with NO expectation of it being repaid. The gift donor will have to sign a declaration to this effect and to confirm they will have NO interest in the property. 

**Did you know that YCP currently have an offer on our starter homes, where if you are gifted money for your deposit, we’ll boost it with an extra £2,000? Find out more about eligibility and terms and conditions here.**

**What is the Land Registry?**

The official body that holds the details of property ownership. 

**What does Leasehold mean?**

You own the property but not the land it is built on, for a specific number of years. Flats are usually owned on a leasehold basis. You may find it hard to get a mortgage if there are fewer than 70 years left on the lease of the property you want to buy. Leases are renegotiable, but the shorter remaining terms, the more expensive it will typically be. 

**What are Lender Arrangement Fees/Product Fees?**

When selecting a mortgage lender, it’s important to be aware of the costs associated with the mortgage products they offer. 

As an example, mortgage products will include *Fixed Rates*, *Tracker Rates*, and *Variable Discounted Rates*. So, if you would prefer to fix the rate of interest on your mortgage, the lender may charge an arrangement fee or product fee to secure the rate offered. Generally, this fee is likely to be between £495 to £1,950. In some scenarios, this fee can be added to the mortgage balance, but remember that any fees added will incur interest charges throughout the term of the mortgage. Alternatively, you can make the payment upfront with your application. 

**What does LTV mean?**

LTV means Loan to Value. This is the ratio of what you borrow for your mortgage (presented as a percentage) against the value of your property. For instance, if you have £50,000 mortgage and your home is worth £100,000, your LTV is 50%.  

**What does Monthly Repayment mean?**

The amount you pay to your lender for your mortgage each month. 

**What is a Mortgage Illustration?**

A mortgage illustration should be given to you before you make a mortgage application. It describes the key things you need to know about your mortgage, such as payments and fees. A mortgage broker can guide you through a mortgage illustration, to ensure that you understand each section and are happy with the contents. 

**What is a Mortgage Offer?**

This is your guaranteed offer. Once your mortgage is approved, you'll get a formal offer setting out the terms and conditions. 

**What is a Mortgage Term?**

The amount of time over which you repay your mortgage (e.g. 25 years). 

**What does Overpayment mean?**

This is when you pay extra, over and above your monthly mortgage payment. You could choose to make a one-off lump sum overpayment or regularly on your monthly repayments. Overpayments save you interest and will shorten your mortgage term. Don’t forget about ERC’s though! 

**What does Portability mean?**

This is when an existing mortgage is transferred between properties when you move house. 

**What is a Payment Holiday?**

This is a period during which you make no payments on your mortgage, however, interest will continue to be charged. This feature is usually only available on a flexible mortgage. 

**What is Stamp Duty Land Tax/SDLT?**

This is a tax you pay when you buy a property. You don't have to pay stamp duty on a property purchase of up to £250,000 (/£425 for first time buyers) but will pay a percentage of the price on any amount over this. The rates of stamp duty increase with property price, ranging from 1% to 5% for properties up to £1million.  

**What is a Standard Variable Rate?**

The default mortgage interest rate that your lender will charge you after your initial mortgage deal ends. 

**What is a Tracker Rate Mortgage?**

This is when the mortgage interest rate is set at a fixed percentage above the Bank of England (BoE) base rate. The interest rate payable will rise and fall in line with changes to the BoE base rate. 

**How important is a Valuation?**

Mortgage lenders require a valuation to prove that the property is worth the amount you want to borrow. 

**What is a Variable Rate?**

This means the interest rate can go up or down if your mortgage lender decides to change their standard variable rate. 

Now that you’re a mortgage jargon whizz, are you wanting to get the ball rolling with the mortgage process? Keep an eye out for the next edition of Mortgage Mastery, where I will be giving you advice on how to save up for your deposit. Coming soon!  

I hope this guide has clarified some of the tricky terminology that relates to mortgages. If you’re still unsure about anything or have come across terminology that is not included in this guide, then **get in touch with me, David Bussey, for a no-obligation chat on 07973 501882**.  I am an independent mortgage broker/adviser and can provide personalised mortgage guidance and expert advice to help you take the first step towards homeownership.

An A-Z of mortgage terminology and definitions. 

Independent mortgage broker and adviser, David Bussey, demystifies an A-Z of mortgage terminology and definitions.  

Mortgage Mastery by David Bussey - Demystifying Mortgage Jargon: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Terminology

Welcome back to Kirsty’s Home Hints, your go-to guide for all things home related! 

Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, creating a peaceful and relaxing space at home is so important. A study by the Mental Health Organisation on ‘Mental Health and Nature’ links spending time in green spaces with reduced mental health problems, improved mood, reduced stress levels and increased life satisfaction.  

As April marks Stress Awareness Month, there’s no better time to start transforming your Yorkshire Country Properties garden into a stress-free haven. Did you know that homeowners tend to have lower stress levels than renters? Here at YCP, we aim to sprinkle even more zen into your life! This starts with us installing your turf before you move into your YCP home* – there’s no need to wait until the right time of year, outsource a landscaper or set aside any extra money for it! To make things even better, your patio area and outside lighting will also be ready when you move in!   

From growing your own food to practicing outdoor yoga, I’m here to share my tips on how to turn your YCP garden into your own outdoor oasis. 


# How to turn your garden into a stress-free haven


**Engage Your Senses**

Incorporating sensory elements can transform your garden into a relaxing sanctuary. I particularly like adding fragrant flowers like lavender or jasmine for calming aromas, and wind chimes or water features for tranquil background noise. Engaging all of your senses can create an escape from the stress of day-to-day life.  

**Grow Your Own Food**

Growing food in your garden nourishes your body and de-stresses the mind. I love to plant herbs such as basil or mint (they’re perfect to add to cocktails during summer BBQs!) Why not follow Stress Awareness Month 2024’s theme of ‘Little by Little’ and start with a few simple options to avoid getting overwhelmed. The sense of achievement you’ll feel when tasting your home-grown produce will definitely boost your mood!  

**Here are a few easy things to grow in your garden:**

**1. Beetroot**

**2. Tomatoes**

**3. Beans - Runner/French**

**4. Salad leaves**

**Welcome Wildlife into your Garden**

Making your space inviting for wildlife brings wonderful creatures into your garden and contributes to the local eco-system. Here at YCP, we’ve already made our gardens hedgehog-friendly by adding 13cm hedgehog highways to all of our garden fences in a vital attempt to safeguard the species. Hedgehogs travel approximately one mile each night through parks and gardens to find food and a friend, so we are proud to support the Hedgehog Highway initiative, led by the [People’s Trust for Endangered Species](https://ptes.org/) and the [British Hedgehog Preservation Society](https://www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk/). 

Installing bird feeders and birdbaths provides nourishment for feathered friends, whilst offering amazing sights and sounds for you – so, why not support local organisation, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, by purchasing one of their [bird feeders](https://www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk/)? Taking a moment to observe the wildlife that visits your garden will provide the perfect distraction from the stresses of life. Plus, who doesn’t want to wake up to the sound of birdsong on a sunny spring morning?  

 

**Get Comfy and Cosy**

Creating a relaxing space is essential for maximising your garden’s stress-relieving potential. Invest in comfortable garden furniture that suits your personal style and needs, such as cushioned chairs and sofas to ensure optimal cosiness when hosting family and friends. I think adding snug blankets and solar-powered lighting is a great idea as it extends outdoor fun well into the evening – garden party, anyone? Another bonus is that its eco-friendly!

**Practice Garden Yoga**

As a yoga lover and teacher, I wholeheartedly advocate for practicing yoga in your garden (when the British weather permits!), as it offers a multitude of physical and mental health benefits. Connecting with nature helps you relax and feel more grounded, due to the surrounding greenery and flowers creating a sense of serenity which is unique to the outdoors. Basking in the sunshine while practicing yoga boosts your vitamin D levels, ultimately supporting immunity and bone health. Additionally, being outdoors naturally stimulates your endorphins, which, combined with the ones produced during exercise, sets the tone for a fantastic day!  

**Spend Time with Family and Friends**

Hosting family and friends for quality outdoor time is even more of a delight in the spacious layout of a YCP home. The bi-fold French doors connect the open-plan kitchen to the garden, creating an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings. With ample room for you and your loved ones, your YCP garden is the perfect place to host – whether it’s a family fun day, boozy BBQ or a relaxing evening under the stars. 

**Ground Yourself with Mindful Moments**

The act of mindfulness is simply being more aware of your surroundings and feelings - it has been endorsed by the NHS as a useful tool to combat mental health struggles. For me, the perfect space to practice mindfulness in is my garden. I can take in my surroundings, breathe in the fresh air and let my stress slip away as I focus on the present. I will touch on the benefits of gardening shortly, but it is a fantastic form of mindful movement which grounds your body and creates a deep connection between you and the earth. 

**Give DIY a go**

Are you a dab hand at DIY? Why not try to build your own seating area, which you can tailor to suit your personal taste and needs. You could even build a pergola – perfect for when the British weather is not on our side, but you still want to reap the stress-busting benefits of getting outdoors! Imagine sitting under it and unwinding after a long hard day, or in contrast, using it as a platform to kick-start your day with an exercise session. 

**Take Up Gardening**

Getting your green gloves on can have considerable benefits for your mental health. Gardening triggers the release of serotonin and endorphins, known as the “feel-good” hormones, which boost your mood and increase your overall mental wellbeing. Studies conducted by the Mental Health Organisation have linked gardening to improved quality of life, mood and a greater sense of community connection. While I’ve already highlighted the benefits of growing your own food and adding bird feeders to your garden, don’t underestimate the benefits of simple tasks like weeding, watering or cutting the grass. So, why not treat yourself to a relaxing trip down to the garden centre and have a mooch around the aisles of pots, seeds and plants? 


##### *Are you a green fingered pro? Share pictures using the hashtag **#kirstyshomehints** and inspire others to have a go!*


**Unwind in the Garden**

Have you ever felt your stress melt away when you step into the garden? Relaxing in the garden offers an escape and a moment to yourself amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re lounging on your comfy garden furniture and breathing in the fresh air or reading a book with your favourite songs playing in the background, a YCP garden is the perfect setting to unwind, whatever the size! As you immerse yourself in the peace of the outdoors, you’ll feel renewed, refreshed and ready to face what the day may bring. 


With a bit of time and TLC, you can transform your YCP garden into a stress-free haven – and you’ll be well set for a fantastic, peaceful summer! Don’t forget to follow this year’s Stress Awareness Month theme: ‘Little by Little.’ There’s no need to complete all of these suggestions at once - instead, you could try one transformation and one de-stressing task per month. By doing it ‘Little by Little’, you’ll witness the transformation of your garden and hopefully notice a reduction in your stress levels by the end of the summer.   

*If you want to find out more about why a Yorkshire Country Properties home would be a perfect fit for you, why not visit our Experience Hub to chat to myself or my sales team colleagues? We’re here from 10am-5pm, seven days a week.*

*Excludes starter homes. 

With a bit of time and TLC, you can transform your YCP garden into a stress-free haven – and you’ll be well set for a fantastic, peaceful summer! Don’t forget to follow this year’s Stress Awareness Month theme: ‘Little by Little.’ There’s no need to complete all of these suggestions at once - instead, you could try one transformation and one de-stressing task per month. By doing it ‘Little by Little’, you’ll witness the transformation of your garden and hopefully notice a reduction in your stress levels by the end of the summer.   

*If you want to find out more about why a Yorkshire Country Properties home would be a perfect fit for you, why not visit our Experience Hub to chat to myself or my sales team colleagues? We’re here from 10am-5pm, seven days a week.*

*Excludes starter homes. 

Tips on transforming your garden into a stress relieving space during Stress Awareness Month.

Transform your space: Make your garden a stress-free haven with Kirsty's Home Hints

Transform your Space: Make your garden a stress-free haven   with Kirsty’s Home Hints  


# Award-winning developer unveils St Valentine’s deals in property hotspot

To celebrate St Valentine’s Day, and the season of love, award-winning Huddersfield residential developer Yorkshire Country Properties has unveiled a trio of fabulous offers on three of its brand-new three-bedroom houses.

Two of the houses are at YCP’s Shepley development and one at Skelmanthorpe. Both developments are close to Huddersfield, recently named as the UK’s premier property hotspot.

Price realignment mean that two houses at Knowle Grange, Shepley are now £355,000 and £330,000 respectively while the house at Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe is keenly priced at £315,000. All three include YCP’s upgrade choice free premium Karndean flooring and carpets. In addition, each home will have stamp duty paid, ranging from £3,250 to £5,200 depending on property. Terms and Conditions apply.

All three properties are now ready to move into.



Sam McGregor, head of sales at YCP, commented: “Designed with couples in mind, these homes feature contemporary kitchen/diners with integrated Zanussi appliances, Rangemaster sinks and under-cabinet lighting spots.

“The living rooms boast bi-fold/French doors opening onto the rear terrace and garden – the perfect retreat for enjoying sunny days. Additionally, each home includes a spacious storeroom, downstairs WC and parking for two cars as well as the highest standard of fixtures and fittings. All bathrooms feature luxurious Porcelanosa tiles. 

“These enticing offers are perfect for those who can act quickly and wish to settle into their new Yorkshire Country Properties home by spring. Just imagine the possibilities with the savings you’ll make. 

“Plot 11 at Whistle Bell Court has amazing views from the principal bedroom and is designed for modern living. The 3-storey terraced house is situated just off Station Road, Skelmanthorpe, with its bars, shops and restaurants. The first floor consists of two double bedrooms and the house bathroom. On the second floor, you will find a generous principal bedroom and en-suite bathroom.”


Sam added: “Join us at our Experience Hub at Knowle Grange, Shepley, HD8 8GL from Monday February 12 where we’ll be celebrating Valentine’s Day every day of the week. Enjoy a glass of bubbles as you explore our ‘ready to move into’ properties and arrange to walk the site with one of our friendly sales advisers.”

According to mortgage provider Halifax, the Huddersfield area is a “house price hotspot”, where the average property has risen in value by just under nine per cent during the past 12 months.

Sam commented: “Huddersfield, and the picturesque villages which surround the town, tick so many boxes. Houses here offer superb value for money, bearing in mind their excellent location, their beautiful surroundings and their first-class facilities. What a magnificent combination of factors.

“The lifestyle offering is unbeatable. Together with attractive country walks and historic pubs, there are also quality schools, thriving independent shops and a lively social scene. What’s more, it’s within easy reach of Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield, with city life on your doorstep, without paying a city’s higher property premiums.”


To celebrate St Valentine’s Day, and the season of love, award-winning Huddersfield residential developer Yorkshire Country Properties has unveiled a trio of fabulous offers on three of its brand-new three-bedroom houses.

Find out more about our offers by speaking to our friendly Customer Experience Hub team

Award-winning developer unveils St Valentine’s deals in property hotspot

We've recently unveiled our very own Phil and Kirsty dream team.

Having strengthened our team with the appointment of Phil Snoad as senior sales negotiator to work alongside Kirsty Watts, Customer Experience Advisor.

Together they are taking inspiration from their namesakes Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp of television’s Location, Location Location and Love it or List It fame.

YCP are currently on site with prime West Yorkshire residential developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale. 
Sam McGregor, Associate Director – Sales, commented: “We are proud to have our very own Phil and Kirsty team. They are based at our Customer Hub at Knowle Grange, Shepley and are ready to provide all the information and support that potential buyers need. They have the same passion about buying homes as their famous namesakes.”

Phil Snoad, who has 19 years’ experience in the housing industry, explained: “It’s great to be part of the Savills New Build Team, who are marketing Yorkshire Country Properties’ developments, and collaborate full-time with YCP to assist our customers to buy their Forever Home”.
Phil, who started in residential property with Barratt Homes in 2005, has since worked with Miller Homes, Seddon Homes, Persimmon Homes and Gleeson Homes.

He said: “My last employer was Guinness Homes selling Shared Ownership. This was a whole new learning curve for me to understand the rules set out by Homes England to help purchasers buy a share of their home, rather than it all.”

Sam McGregor explained: “We are currently building 147 beautiful, high-quality homes and, in total, we are looking at a potential pipeline of over 700 new homes.  Given the current uncertainty of the mortgage and financial markets, we are placing more emphasis than ever on high quality and product differentiation.

“During the past three years, the company has made a positive and focussed contribution to the housing provision in the Kirklees and West Yorkshire area. Apart from a completed development at Netherthong, Holmfirth, where every single one of the 22 beautiful houses built were sold, we have either sold or reserved 40  houses on our other three sites.

“Clearly, the current state of the housing market presents challenges, but we are confident that the quality of our houses combined with the enthusiasm and commitment of our wonderful team here at YCP will enable us to continue to deliver the kind of homes that are needed across all demographics in Yorkshire. I am so proud to be working with such an exceptional sales team.”
Paul Brown, YCP’s managing director, commented: “Phil is a tremendous addition to our sales team and we are very grateful to Savills for allowing him to work for us on a full-time basis. He and Kirsty are a dynamic duo, just like Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp.

“Overall, our sales team is committed to making YCP the very best housebuilder in West Yorkshire. Their experience and expertise will prove invaluable and I am very lucky and proud to have such an excellent team to support me in growing our company and achieving our targets.

“All three of these new developments are providing much-needed housing, including a significant number of starter homes, enabling young people to get on to the property ladder. Our starter homes at Phase One at Shepley and all but one in Skelmanthorpe have now sold out, underpinning our contribution to both the community and to sustainability in the three villages.”

“At Yorkshire Country Properties, we have been buoyed by recognition in a range of awards in 2023, winning two major honours in the WhatHouse? awards and being shortlisted in the Yorkshire Post Real Estate and the Yorkshire Business Insider Property awards for our developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.
“This recognition has meant a tremendous amount to our hard-working team and given us the confidence to progress two prestigious new West Yorkshire developments, one at Grange Moor, Kirklees, and the other in the very popular Huddersfield postcode of HD9.”



Call them on 01484 599454 now to find out more!

Our very own Phil and Kirsty dream team

Kirsty & Phil

Hello, I'm David Bussey, YCP’s trusted Independent Mortgage Broker, and I am pleased to welcome you to Mortgage Mastery - your comprehensive guide to navigating the intricate world of homeownership. 

With over 30 years of experience in the financial services and mortgage industry, I am honoured to have been chosen as Yorkshire Country Properties' preferred Mortgage Broker. Through this blog series, I aim to share my expertise, insights and help you with all things mortgage related. 

As a whole-of-market broker, I have access to all lenders within the mortgage market, allowing me to tailor solutions to fit your personal circumstances. If your employment and self-employment income scenarios are out of the ordinary, fear not, as I have the experience and expertise to assist you in securing your dream home. 

Yorkshire Country Properties and I believe in providing a bespoke, individualised service to each and every one of our clients. We understand that purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will ever make, and it is essential to have the right guidance every step of the way. That's why we've launched Mortgage Mastery - to demystify the mortgage process, provide expert guidance and equip you to make informed decisions about your future.


**Why should you use a mortgage broker?**

Using a mortgage broker offers many benefits. Brokers provide access to a variety of lenders - exemplified by my whole-of-market position – which will save you time as you won’t have to spend hours researching and comparing which option is best for you. 

A broker’s expertise and personalised advice can help you understand the complexities of mortgage products and equip you with the skills to negotiate good terms. All of the paperwork and documentation requirements are taken care of, and you’ll have a dedicated professional on-hand, taking care of all aspects of the mortgage process - from application to offer and on to completion. A broker will ensure that you get the best possible deal available given your personal circumstances.

Ultimately, their services streamline the mortgage application process, offering convenience and peace of mind to borrowers.


**Are mortgage rates going up?**

In today’s economic climate, understanding mortgage-related issues has never been more important. Between December 2021 and August 2023, there were 14 consecutive mortgage rate rises as the Bank of England strived to reduce inflation. Bank rates have stayed at 5.25% since August 2023, and on 21st March, no members of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to increase interest rates for the first time since 2021. 

A bank rate reduction could be on the cards in June, and I predict that mortgage rates will slowly start to decrease over the coming weeks. This offers a glimmer of stability in otherwise turbulent circumstances. It’s a promising sign that we may be on a path towards more predictable times. 

Sharing a vision in delivering high levels of customer satisfaction, I work closely with Yorkshire Country Properties to assist buyers in securing their dream home. From the initial consultation to completion, we are committed to being on-hand every step of the way. 


**Coming up next month in Mortgage Mastery**

In the next instalment of the series, we'll delve into demystifying mortgage jargon. Understanding mortgage terminology is essential for feeling confident in your homebuying process, but it can be a bit of a minefield. From terms like APR and LTV to concepts such as leasehold and gazumping, I’ll break down complex jargon into simple definitions.

**What to expect from Mortgage Mastery with David Bussey**

Over the coming months, this blog series will be your go-to guide for anything mortgage related. I aim to educate you on the mortgage process, keep you up to speed with the latest news and highlight the importance of understanding mortgage-related issues in today’s economic climate.  
Understanding your mortgage options is crucial in making informed decisions about your financial future, and I'm here to provide clarity at each stage. Whether you're a first-time buyer exploring your options, or a seasoned homeowner looking to refinance, this series will equip you with the knowledge to understand your mortgage with confidence. 

For personalised mortgage guidance and expert advice, contact David Bussey at ***07973 501882 for a no-obligation chat***. Take the first step toward homeownership with Mortgage Mastery today.

Your introduction to Mortgage Mastery with David Bussey.

Mortgage Mastery with David Bussey: navigating your path to homeownership 

Mortgage Mastery with David Bussey: Navigating Your Path to Homeownership - Edition One: Introduction

Hello, I'm Kirsty, looking after Customer Experience at Yorkshire Country Properties. Whether you’re all about countryside living or keen to revamp your interiors, I'm here to talk to you about all things home related! If you're buying, selling or simply seeking inspiration, I can help. This is our new regular blog series, so you’ll be seeing my face each month. Let's explore the beauty of Yorkshire living together.
 
Wednesday the 20th of March marks the first day of spring in the UK - hooray! The skies are getting lighter, days getting longer and hibernation season is coming to an end. As I look out of the YCP Experience Hub at our Knowle Grange site, I imagine the spring setting that will be there in a month’s time – I am so excited for what’s to come. You may be hosting loved ones for the Easter bank holiday weekend, wanting to revive the garden after a drizzly six months or gearing up to sell your home – whatever it is, it’s an ideal time to refresh, declutter and spring clean your home.

**What is a spring clean?**  

Well, according to the Oxford dictionary, it's basically giving your place a good scrub from top to bottom and hitting all those nooks and crannies you usually ignore. Time to roll up those sleeves and get to it!

**Why is it called spring cleaning?**

Spring cleaning has deep cultural and historical roots; in the UK, homes once powered by coal and gas accumulated soot and dust over winter, prompting the need for a thorough clean as the days got lighter. Additionally, the Persian New Year (Nowruz) marks the start of spring, with a tradition of pre-New Year cleaning to bid farewell to the old year and embrace the new.

**When should you start spring cleaning?** 

A good time to start would be the first day of spring – 20th of March! No need to stress, however, as you don’t have to do it all in one day. Why not tackle a room per week? It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the tasks you have to do, so it is a good idea to break it down into smaller chunks. 


## Spring cleaning for selling your home

Welcome to the ultimate guide on getting your home in tip-top shape for that big sale! Let's face it – a bit of sparkle and shine can go a long way in winning over potential buyers. Here are my five top-tips: 


**1.	Declutter for home selling success:** 

Remove any excess furniture and personal items (e.g. family photos) that might distract potential buyers. Create a clutter-free canvas for them to envision their dream home.
 
**2.	Clean every nook and cranny:**

Grab your gloves and cleaning supplies because it's time to clean all the parts you’ve been neglecting! Give your home a thorough cleaning from top to bottom, including skirting boards, light fixtures and windows - pay extra attention to busy areas like the kitchen and bathrooms.

**3.	Transform the house with fresh wall colours:**

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in transforming your space. Stick to neutral colours to appeal to a wider range of buyers and highlight the potential of the property. 

**4.	Focus on the Kitchen and Bathrooms:**

These rooms can really make or break a sale, so pay extra attention to them in your spring clean. Deep clean appliances, scrub the countertops and polish the bathroom fixtures until they gleam. Why not take some inspiration from professional cleaning company @jetlagremedy’s bathroom cleaning tips [video](https://www.tiktok.com/@jetlagremedy/video/7251835211690888449?_t=8kTdjIx30rp&_r=1)? 

**5.	Optimise your loft space:**

Before you start packing up the rest of your home, tackle the mysterious abyss of the loft - you don't want to leave this until the last minute! This will make your move much easier and your loft a more attractive selling point. Plus, you might just unearth some long-lost treasures in the process!



Remember, there’s more to life than a sparkling home, but the act of decluttering and cleaning is excellent for your mental health. Clearing physical space can clear your mind too – so tidy up for a happier you! 

As spring unfolds, consider the possibility of making a Yorkshire Country Properties home the backdrop for your seasonal refresh. With longer days ahead, picture yourself surrounded by the beauty of the Yorkshire countryside. We offer homes tailored to every lifestyle - from cosy 1-bed cottages to 5-bed family homes. 

Why not visit our Experience Hub to chat to myself or my sales team colleagues? We’re here from 10am-5pm seven days a week. Welcome home to Yorkshire Country Properties – where every season brings new possibilities.


**Q: What areas should I focus on during spring cleaning to enhance my home's appeal to buyers?** 

Pay attention to high-traffic areas such as the entryway, living room, kitchen and bathrooms.

Declutter and organise wardrobes, cabinets and storage spaces to showcase ample storage potential.

Deep clean carpets, floors, windows and surfaces to remove dirt, dust and grime.


**Q: Should I consider hiring professionals for certain cleaning tasks?**

Depending on your time, resources and expertise, hiring professionals for deep cleaning tasks like carpet cleaning, window-washing and cleaning exterior areas can get you superior results.

Professional cleaners may have specialised equipment and techniques to tackle tough stains and ensure a pristine finish, saving you time and effort.

**Q: How can I maintain a clean and tidy appearance throughout the selling process?**

Establish a regular cleaning schedule to keep your home in showcase-ready condition for potential buyers.

Implement daily habits such as making beds, wiping down surfaces and tidying up after yourself to maintain cleanliness.

Utilise storage solutions to keep personal items out of sight during viewings, creating a neutral canvas for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.



Five tips on spring cleaning to sell your home. 

Kirsty’s Home Hints: Spring Cleaning to Sell Your Home

This year’s New Homes Week theme is ‘Tomorrow awaits: make it yours,’ and to celebrate, we are discussing five reasons why you should buy a new build property. 

If you are tired of moving into houses that require thousands of pounds worth of renovations, or finding out that the seller’s end of the deal has collapsed when you are close to completion, it is well worth considering buying a new build home.  From saving time on renovations to reaping the financial advantages of energy-efficiency, new build homes offer a plethora of benefits that make it the best option when buying a house. Here are our five top reasons why you should buy a new build home: 

**1: Renovation-Free: New Build Homes Need Minimal Work**

One of the biggest advantages of buying a new build is the little-to-no renovation work required. The houses are newly designed and built, the interiors are modern, appliances new and under warranty… the list of benefits goes on. Moving into an old home can come with a plethora of design and structural issues, requiring repairs which can end up costing a lot more than you bargained for. Invest in a new home with the assurance that your money can go towards furnishing your new home, rather than rebuilding it. 


At Yorkshire Country Properties, we proudly offer a diverse selection of homes across our three sites: Knowle Grange, Shepley; The Willows, Denby Dale and Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe. Whether you’re in search of a cosy one-bedroom cottage, or a spacious five-bedroom detached family home, we cater to a variety of needs and budgets. Discover your ideal home with us today.

**2: Energy Efficient Housing: New Builds Save on Power**

UK households are responsible for around 20% of the country’s carbon emissions, and with the government pledging to reach net zero by 2050, household emissions must decrease. New build homes succeed in battling that statistic have an average Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A/B, while older houses have an average EPC rating of D/E. If you want to take a step towards a greener future – consider a new build home. 

Due to rising prices, the cost of energy is a top priority for homeowners. New builds have more efficient boilers and appliances, better insulation and higher-efficiency central heating than their older counterparts, saving you money on your energy bills. 


Several mainstream lenders, such as Nationwide, Barclays and NatWest, are now offering ‘green mortgages’, which provide preferential terms to energy-efficient homeowners, providing even more savings in the long run.
 
YCP homes benefit from a range of energy efficient features, from highly effective home insulation to energy efficient doors and windows. We prioritise every aspect of our supply chain with our customers’ needs at the forefront, ensuring that each home is energy efficient and cost-effective to run. PV solar panels are featured on selected plots, enhancing our dedication to creating lower carbon footprint homes and a greener future. 

**3: No Seller Chains: Buy New Homes Directly**

Purchasing a chain-free property is far less stressful than buying a property with a chain. Chain-free purchases are made directly to the developer, so you don’t have to rely on anyone else for your purchase to go through. If just one person pulls out from a chain, the whole thing can collapse, which leads to great upset for the buyers. Don’t waste time fretting about other people’s house purchases – buy a chain-free new build and enjoy the effortlessness! 


At YCP, purchasing your dream home is a breeze. Our dedicated sales team are located at our experience hub in Knowle Grange, Shepley, between 10am and 5pm, 7 days a week, ready to guide you through the process of acquiring your dream YCP home. Let us make your home buying experience smooth and stress-free.

**4: New Build Warranty: 10-Year Guarantee**

New build homes come with a 10-year warranty, which protects homeowners against structural issues or defects. When you purchase a new build home, you have peace of mind that the warranty will be your safety net against any issues that may occur. At Yorkshire Country Properties, we offer a 10-year Premier Guarantee, starting from the day you complete your purchase. Discover more about the Premier Guarantee [here](https://www.premierguarantee.com/), or simply have a chat with our friendly sales team at our experience hub, located at Knowle Grange. We’re always here to assist you in any way we can. 

**5: Customisable: New Builds to Fit Your Style**

New build homes are designed with modern living in mind, and if purchased off-plan (before it is built), you can choose the colour and style of your new home. Here at YCP, we offer full tailoring of your new property, allowing you to choose from a range of kitchens, flooring and Porcelanosa bathroom tiles - right up to finish of staircase, switches and sockets and even bathroom taps! At YCP, you can make your new home truly ***yours***. 



Interested in infusing your YCP home with the cosy warmth of Scandinavian hygge? Read our latest [**blog**](/news/bring-hygge-to-your-yorkshire-country-properties-kitchen) to learn more about bringing hygge to your YCP kitchen.  

This New Homes Week, say goodbye to house-related headaches and stress. With new build homes, enjoy minimal renovation needs, superior energy efficiency, chain-free purchase, 10-year warranty and customisation options to fit your style. As we strive towards a greener future and hassle-free homeownership, new build homes offer the perfect solution. Don't miss out, ‘tomorrow awaits’ – so make a new build home your next investment. 

To find out more about YCP’s new build homes, visit our [**homepage**](/) or call our sales team on 01484 599454.

Our top five reasons why you should buy a new build home. 

New Homes Week: Five reasons why you should buy a new build home

NEW HOMES WEEK: FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BUY A NEW BUILD HOME




**What is hygge? How do you pronounce it?**



Did you know that Denmark consistently ranks among the top three happiest countries in the World Happiness Report? One of the secrets to their happiness lies in the concept of hygge. Hygge, (pronounced ‘hoo-ga’) is a Scandinavian philosophy that encompasses a feeling of cosiness, contentment and wellbeing through enjoying the simple things in life. It’s often associated with creating a warm atmosphere, whether that’s through spending time with loved ones, enjoying good food and drinks or surrounding oneself with comfortable furnishings.  

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so, why not take a cue from the happiest people in the world and incorporate a little more hygge into your YCP kitchen? 


YCP Experience Hub hygge kitchen



**How to bring Hygge into your YCP Kitchen**



Bringing hygge into your kitchen involves creating a warm, inviting atmosphere and enjoying simple pleasures associated with cooking and eating. Follow our tips to bring hygge into your YCP kitchen: 




**How to light your kitchen**



Use soft, warm lighting in your kitchen to create a cosy ambience. Consider using candles, string lights or dimmable fixtures to achieve this. In your YCP kitchen, you will find ceiling and under cabinet spotlights which effortlessly enhance the warmth of your home. 



**Kitchen cabinet ideas – opt for neutrals**


If you reserve your YCP home whilst it is being built, you can select the colours used throughout the house, including kitchen cupboards, worktops and splashbacks. To enhance the hygge in your home, opt for neutral colours such as Platinum White, Light Grey, Diamond Grey, Light Chicago Concrete, Mid Gloss White*, Mid Gloss Grey*, Cashmere Ash*, Indigo Ash* and Dust Grey Ash*, available in our standard and upgrade packages.




**How to create a minimalist kitchen**


Minimalism is a great way to create a hygge feel to your kitchen. We understand that it isn’t functional to store very few items in your kitchen – instead, you can incorporate hygge by giving everything a home. At YCP, you can store everything you will need in our kitchen cupboards, ready to use when you try that new recipe you’ve saved. Bring hygge to your kitchen by making sure everything has its place, in a functional, decluttered way. 

Additionally, all kitchen appliances are integrated, leaving more room on the worktops for your additional appliances such as kettles, toasters, air fryers and more. In the standard package, these include a range of Zanussi and AEG built-in and built-under ovens, Dishwashers and Fridge/Freezers, allowing you to make the right choice to best fit your home and needs. Upgrades are also available for integrated Zanussi Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers and Dual Washer/Dryers. 

You can find Designer SieMatic kitchens at selected plots across Knowle Grange and The Willows, featuring a contemporary look with integrated Bosch and Neff appliances - ranging from fridge/freezers, ovens and microwaves to warming drawers – perfect for hosting a dinner party with your loved ones.  



**Bring nature indoors**

Bring elements of nature into your kitchen with plants or fresh flowers, renowned for additional health benefits such as purifying the air, relieving stress and anxiety and boosting your mood in the long, cold winters. 



**Small additions can make a big impact**

Adding small touches bring a hyggeligt (hygge-like) essence to your home. Treat yourself to an integrated AEG coffee machine from our upgrade selection to make your favourite hot drink on a dark morning. Additionally, once you get round to putting up your treasured photos on the walls, they will provide an instant mood boost -so take a seat and spend some time enjoying the moment. 


**Make homemade treats**



Prepare homemade baked goods or comfort foods that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Imagine baking your favourite treats in our integrated ovens. To enhance the feeling of hygge, place the finished products atop your laminate worktops and enjoy with your loved ones.



**Enjoy your space**


Once you have mastered adding a sense of hygge to your home, you could enjoy a tipple or two by making your own mulled wine, which will fill your kitchen with lovely aromas of cinnamon and spices. Although, you could make life even easier and head straight to the wine fridge (did we mention we also provide wine fridges as an upgrade option too?)




**Our Experience Hub**


If you need some hygge inspiration, why not visit our experience hub show home, based at our Knowle Grange site in Shepley? 
Our show kitchen exudes charm and sophistication through its New England style doors. The soft hues of ‘Dove Grey’ on the main run units provide a sense of hygge, while the island units painted in ‘Indigo’ add a dash of contemporary flair. A haven of modernity, our kitchens feel both calming and stylish. Our kitchens are built to last, exemplified by our show kitchen’s Bardolino oak carcasses that withstand the test of time. Every detail is carefully considered, right down to the Brecon set handles, adding a sense of refinement to every cabinet and drawer. 

Our kitchens aren't just for cooking – they're for creating memories. Picture yourself gathering around the island with loved ones, savouring a glass of wine as you prepare meals together. With its spacious layout and thoughtful design, our kitchens successfully master what hygge is all about – making memories with loved ones and feeling the warmth of your dream home. 


Hygge kitchens with YCP

Bring Hygge to your Yorkshire Country Properties Kitchen

Bring Hygge To Your Yorkshire Country Properties Kitchen

To celebrate the season of love, we have fabulous offers on three plots across our Shepley and Skelmanthorpe sites throughout February.

We have three superb three-bedroom homes, ready to move into, with premium carpets and flooring already fitted. What’s more, we’ll pay your stamp duty – just think how handy that extra cash will be! *

Designed with couples in mind, these homes feature contemporary kitchen/diners with integrated Zanussi appliances, Rangemaster sinks and under-cabinet lighting spots. The living rooms boast bi-fold/French doors opening onto the rear terrace and garden – the perfect retreat for enjoying sunny days. Additionally, each home includes a spacious storeroom, downstairs WC and parking for two cars as well as the highest standard of fixtures and fittings. All bathrooms feature luxurious Porcelanosa tiles. 

Plot 4 at Knowle Grange, Shepley is a 3-storey semi-detached house with a single detached garage, built from our signature Yorkshire stone, with an additional parking space for another vehicle. The stylish kitchen/diner hosts a light grey contemporary style with marble laminate worktops. Can’t wait to wind down after a long day? The bathroom - featuring Porcelanosa tiles in Madagascar Blanco and a vanity unit in Grey Ash - is the perfect place to do so.

**[VIEW PLOT 4, SHEPLEY NOW](/homes/knowle-grange/the-fell-plot-4)**

Plot 6 at Knowle Grange boasts privacy, as the detached property is not overlooked. It also has a gorgeous south-facing garden – perfect for soaking up the summer sun (when the British weather permits!) The open plan kitchen/diner with its Karndean flooring, has upgraded cashmere coloured shaker style cupboards and marble laminate worktops – a great place to work on your culinary skills! 

**[VIEW PLOT 6, SHEPLEY NOW](/homes/knowle-grange/the-pennine)**

Plot 11 at Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe, has amazing views and is designed for modern professional living. The first floor consists of two double bedrooms and the house bathroom. On the second floor, you will find a generous principal bedroom and en-suite. The south west facing garden is great for entertaining and an aid to work life balance. All in all, the energy efficiency savings you will make on this new build property, together with its sale price, make this property an all-round incredible deal. 

**[VIEW PLOT 11, SKELMANTHORPE NOW](/homes/whistle-bell-court/the-fell-wbc)**

These enticing offers are perfect for those who are ready to move and wish to settle into their new Yorkshire Country Properties home by spring. Just imagine the possibilities and the savings you’ll make!

Join us at our Experience Hub at Knowle Grange, Shepley, HD8 8GL from 12th February where we’ll be celebrating Valentine’s Day every day of the week. Enjoy a glass of bubbles as you explore our ‘ready to move into’ properties and arrange to walk the site with one of our friendly sales advisers.

Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day by making your move to a Yorkshire Country Properties home, where cherished moments await you. 

*𝘛𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘴 & 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘖𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘴 4 & 6, 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵 11, 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘵. 𝘝𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 01.02.24 - 29.02.24

Celebrate love with our February Valentine’s offers: Stunning homes ready to move into, plus stamp duty paid!

The news that Huddersfield boasts the fastest rising house prices in the UK has been endorsed by an award-winning residential property developer, based in the West Yorkshire town.

According to mortgage provider Halifax, the Huddersfield area is a “house price hotspot”, where the average property has risen in value by just under nine per cent during the past 12 months.

Paul Brown, managing director of Yorkshire Country Properties, said that the Halifax report came as no surprise.

He commented: “Huddersfield, and the picturesque villages which surround the town, tick so many boxes. Houses here offer superb value for money, bearing in mind their excellent location, their beautiful surroundings and their first-class facilities. What a magnificent combination of factors.

“The lifestyle offering is unbeatable. Together with attractive country walks and historic pubs, there are also quality schools, thriving independent shops and a lively social scene. What’s more, it’s within easy reach of Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield, with city life on your doorstep, without paying a city’s higher property premiums.

Located in the foothills of the Pennines, Huddersfield is perhaps best known for its stunning scenery and quaint outlying villages – the perfect setting for television classics like Last of The Summer Wine and Where The Heart Is. 

Paul continued: “In the past, Huddersfield has had the reputation of being a small northern town, famous for being the birthplace of Rugby League and the home of Harold Wilson and Patrick Stewart. But it’s now acknowledged as being much more than this. 

“It boasts a panoramic landscape of beautiful scenery with rolling hills, Pennine views and historical landmarks. Each village within a 15-mile radius of the town has its own identity with hidden gems to explore, great communities to be part of and unique places to eat and drink.”

Paul Brown, whose company won two major honours at the prestigious WhatHouse? Awards in December, explained: “At the same time as this tremendous news about house prices in the Huddersfield area, comes more positivity about the housing market across the UK, driven by a stability in interest rates and a fall in inflation.”

Sam McGregor, head of sales at Yorkshire Country Properties, continued: “At Yorkshire Country Properties, this has now resulted in an increase in enquiry levels, especially in the over £450,000 house price sector. Already this year we have taken two new reservations at our development at Skelmanthorpe, near Huddersfield.

“This positivity is also being reflected in the increase in the number of visits to our Experience Hub at our Shepley development, compared to this time last year, which is extremely encouraging. All our Phase 1 homes at Shepley will now be ready to move into by the end of next month, which marks the conclusion of a development of which we are extremely proud.

“It is so important to remember that all parts of the new homes market aren’t in decline, despite what some pessimists might say. Our starter homes initiative at our three sites in Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale has been incredibly successful with first-time buyers keen to stop paying high rents and to climb on to the property ladder for the first time. There is also strong evidence to suggest that demand for well-built attractive family homes, correctly priced, remains healthy and should gather pace during the next 12 months.

“At Yorkshire Country Properties, we have been buoyed by recognition in a range of awards in 2023, winning two major honours in the WhatHouse? Awards and being shortlisted in the Yorkshire Post Real Estate and the Yorkshire Business Insider Property awards for our developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.

“This recognition has meant a tremendous amount to our hard-working team and given us the confidence to progress two prestigious new West Yorkshire developments, one at Grange Moor, Kirklees, and the other in the very popular Huddersfield postcode of HD9. Yes, 2023 was tough, but these mortgage rate cuts are just the boost the housing market needs.”

Huddersfield is a new property hotspot

HUDDERSFIELD IS A PROPERTY HOTSPOT

The decision by a number of leading mortgage lenders to cut their rates has provided the embattled UK housing market with much-needed hope at the beginning of the year, according to an award-winning Yorkshire residential property developer.

Paul Brown, chief executive of Huddersfield-based Yorkshire Country Properties, said that it was vital that confidence returned to the housing market and that lower interest rates were a key factor in this.

HSBC has announced cuts on its residential mortgage interest rates, with several falling below 5% for the first time since April 2023. The largest drop was to its 10-year fixed-rate remortgage deals, one of which is down from 4.99% to 3.99%.

Reductions have also been announced by Britain’s largest mortgage lender, Halifax, including to its two-year fixed-rate remortgage which dropped from 5.64% to 4.81%. 

It marks a sharp reduction from last summer when the average rate of a two-year fixed deal hit a 15-year high of 6.66%.

Paul Brown, whose company won two major honours at the prestigious WhatHouse? Awards in December, commented: “There is certainly a degree of positivity in the market going into 2024 that was absent this time last year, driven by an increase in lender confidence. Competition has returned and now the banks are competing with each other once again.

“It is fair to say the stability in interest rates and the general more optimistic market sentiment is now resulting in an increase in enquiry levels, especially in the over £450,000 house price sector. Already this year we have taken two new reservations at our development at Skelmanthorpe, near Huddersfield.

“This positivity is also being reflected in the increase in the number of visits to our Experience Hub at our Shepley development, compared to this time last year, which is extremely encouraging. All our Phase 1 homes at Shepley will now be ready to move into by the end of next month, which marks the conclusion of a development of which we are extremely proud.

“It is so important to remember that all parts of the new homes market aren’t in decline, despite what some pessimists might say. Our starter homes initiative at our three sites in Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale has been incredibly successful with first-time buyers keen to stop paying high rents and to climb on to the property ladder for the first time. There is also strong evidence to suggest that demand for well-built attractive family homes, correctly priced, remains healthy and should gather pace during the next 12 months.
“At Yorkshire Country Properties, we have been buoyed by recognition in a range of awards in 2023, winning two major honours in the WhatHouse? awards and being shortlisted in the Yorkshire Post Real Estate and the Yorkshire Business Insider Property awards for our developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.
“This recognition has meant a tremendous amount to our hard-working team and given us the confidence to progress two prestigious new West Yorkshire developments, one at Grange Moor and the other in the very popular Huddersfield postcode of HD9. Yes, 2023 was tough, but these mortgage rate cuts are just the boost the housing market needs.”


Good News - Mortgage Rate Cuts

Mortgage Rate Cuts

Our Customer Experience Hub will be closed for Christmas from 5pm 21st December until 10am 2nd January. 

Please leave us a message and we will get back to you then. We look forward to speaking to you soon.

Take a look at our website to view our newly launched homes, ready and waiting for their new owners in 2024.

[](/developments/) 



TEL: 01484 599454


Email us: [hello@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk](mailto:hello@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk)



Take a look at our beautiful developments, ready for you in 2024

Christmas Opening Hours

Christmas Break

What a brilliant way to end the week, with not one but TWO award wins at the WhatHouse? Awards 2023 

🏆 **Best Starter Home Scheme - GOLD**

🏆 **Best Small Housebuilder - BRONZE**

We are so proud of the success of our starter homes initiative, designed to help young people onto the property ladder and experience the joy and the security of owning their first home - priced at 20 per cent less than the market value under our starter homes scheme.

A bronze award for Best Small Housebuilder is also a fantastic recognition for our four developments in Netherthong, Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale. We're delighted to be making a positive contribution to the housing provision in the Kirklees and West Yorkshire area.

Congratulations to all winners and those shortlisted at today's awards ceremony.

![](https://a.storyblok.com/f/197182/2244x1890/7e5fc42e0e/wha23_logo_goldwinner.jpg)

![](https://a.storyblok.com/f/197182/2244x1890/f5c129960b/wha23_logo_bronzewinner.jpg)

© Philippa Gedge Photography

WhatHouse? Award Success!

WhatHouse Awards Success

We are delighted to welcome our most recent resident to Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe. 

Much-needed starter homes are an integral part of YCP’s new developments at Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale, while they have sold out at Shepley and Netherthong. YCP’s Sam McGregor explained: “We have been both proud and delighted by the success of our starter homes initiative. It is so important to help young people to get on to the property ladder and to experience the joy and the security of owning their first home.

“Five of the six starter homes, called Valley Cottages, have already been reserved and it’s easy to see why. Under the starter homes scheme, they are priced at 20 per cent less than their market value. Built from natural Yorkshire stone, Valley Cottages have tremendous kerb appeal, but that’s not all. Step inside and you’ll discover that our starter homes provide everything you need for modern living.

“As with all our homes, we have included some fabulous double-glazed French doors so you can extend your living space outside - and in a Valley Cottage, that means onto a rear patio/garden area - a perfect spot for some after work relaxation. Your own piece of heaven.”

YCP’s development at Denby Dale comprises of eight starter homes, and two have already been reserved. 

The starter homes scheme is an imaginative initiative by the Government to help first-time buyers purchase a home where the discounted price is less than £250,000. You must be between 23 and 40 years old and your gross combined household income must be below £80,000 a year.

YCP design homes which allow you to live your best life - homes of a timeless quality to provide a positive work-life balance, which is so essential for today’s busy lifestyles. For us, property is a way of life, which is why we take so much care with each of our customers to ensure we build a lifelong relationship. Our starter homes are the beginning of this relationship.

A starter home buyer at YCP’s sold-out development at Netherthong enthused: “I would like to say a massive thank you for everything YCP and your team have done for me. I found all the staff super supportive, answering all my questions quickly and with a full answer. I thought moving into a new area, not knowing people, would be a daunting task but you made the transition super easy."

Another happy owner at Whistle Bell Court

Starter home Skelmanthorpe - another happy customer

Yorkshire Country Properties (YCP) is a well-established, fast-growing and innovative residential developer based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. 

With a reputation for building desirable homes, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and quality craftsmanship, which are hallmarks of our success.

With over 90 homes currently under construction across three sites and a pipeline of over 500 homes to come throughout Yorkshire, we are looking for a Sales Negotiator to assist the Head of Sales, as YCP continues its journey of growth and success.

**What we’re looking for in the ideal candidate:**

- Experience working in a customer service role

- 1-2 years’ experience in new homes sales

- Excellent organisation and communication skills 

- Reliable 

- Immaculate presentation

- Commercially astute and driven

- Proficient in using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

- Full UK driving licence

**Responsibilities:**

- Provide an excellent customer-focused front-line service along with managing the customer journey from enquiry through to completion

- Represent YCP to the highest professional standards of business, at all times, in all our customer sees, hears and feels

- Astute assessment of potential customer interest, viability, requirements, and budget. Presenting the unique selling points when buying a YCP home, to match their detailed criteria

- Thorough market research of the local area and amenities; presenting the specific advantages of buying at one of our YCP developments 

- Thorough knowledge of the local competition; their product, prices and marketing strategy

- Effective follow-up of all enquiries

- Getting to know your customer and identifying their needs. Having the ability to upsell on additional extras to create their dream home 

- Awareness of the legal and construction processes, from reservation to completion; 

- Keeping the customer informed at every stage

- Maintaining accurate records using the company CRM system

- Internal weekly sales reporting 

**Salary and benefits:**

- Full-time – 37.5 hours a week (including weekend hours)

- Salary negotiable depending on experience

- Car allowance

- 25 days annual leave, with an additional 8 statutory days

- Company Contributory Pension Scheme

- Company phone and laptop

- Career development opportunities


Could you be our new Sales Negotiator at YCP?
If you think you are a good fit for this role and are looking for a new and exciting opportunity, please apply via LinkedIn or email your CV and cover letter to recruitment@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk



We are Recruiting for our sales team!

We are recruiting for our Sales Team

YCP has strengthened its senior sales team with four key appointments.

Hard on the heels of the appointment of Paul Brown as managing director comes the news that a brand-new senior sales team is now in place.
YCP are currently on site with prime West Yorkshire residential developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.

The accomplished team comprises: Sam McGregor, Sam Baldaro, Kate Carter and Kirsty Watts.

The Head of Sales is Sam McGregor, who commented: “We are currently building 147 beautiful, high-quality homes and, in total, we are looking at a potential pipeline of over 700 new homes.  Given the current uncertainty of the mortgage and financial markets, we are placing more emphasis than ever on high quality and product differentiation.

“During the past three years, the company has made a positive and focussed contribution to the housing provision in the Kirklees and West Yorkshire area. Apart from a completed development at Netherthong, Holmfirth, where every single one of the 22 beautiful houses built were sold, we have either sold or reserved 40 houses on our other three sites.

“Clearly, the current state of the housing market presents challenges, but we are confident that the quality of our houses combined with the enthusiasm and commitment of our wonderful team here at YCP will enable us to continue to deliver the kind of homes that are needed across all demographics in Yorkshire. I am so proud to be working with an exceptional sales team.”

Sam added: “We are looking to expand our team further with the appointment of a **[full-time sales negotiator.](/news/we-are-recruiting-for-our-sales-team)** If you fancy a new challenge and have one-two years Customer Services experience plus a UK driving licence please apply with your CV to samanthamcgregor@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk.

Sam Baldaro has joined Yorkshire Country Properties from Vistry (formerly known as Bovis) for seven years and she has worked with numerous leading housebuilders for the past 15 years.

“My role at YCP is to oversee the sales progression for all of our purchasers, being the main point of contact and guiding them through the legal and financial process. I’m on hand to ensure their journey from placing their reservation through to legal completion and moving into their new home is as smooth and seamless as possible.

“The market has been hugely unstable over the last 12 months with rises in interest rates and decreasing valuations. We are in a very strong position though, we have some very popular developments which offer a premium build and attractive living spaces, this serves us well with the current conditions. Recently we have seen a leap in customer enquiries and lenders have started to reduce their interest rates, which is hopefully the sign of a more predictable time.”

Meanwhile Kate Carter has a background in student, professional and commercial property management, sales and lettings and previously lived and worked in Manchester city centre, while Kirsty Watts, who is from Sheffield has ‘a wealth of experience in customer service.

Paul Brown commented: “This talented new sales team is committed to making YCP the very best housebuilder in West Yorkshire. Their experience and expertise will prove invaluable and I am very lucky and proud to have such an excellent team to support me in growing our company and achieving our targets.

“All three of these new developments are providing much-needed housing, including a significant number of starter homes, enabling young people to get on to the property ladder. Our starter homes at Phase One at Shepley and Skelmanthorpe have now sold out, underpinning our contribution to both the community and to sustainability in the three villages.”

Our friendly sales team

YCP STRENGTHENS SENIOR SALES TEAM

YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES STRENGTHENS SENIOR SALES TEAM

The Huddersfield-based Yorkshire Country Properties (YCP) has strengthened its management team with a key appointment and three significant promotions.

Hard on the heels of the appointment of Paul Brown as managing director comes the news that a brand-new executive team is now in place.

Rob Wilkinson has joined YCP as Financial Director, while Mike May, Sam McGregor and Jenny Wass have been promoted to Head of Construction, Head of Sales and Head of Marketing respectively.
Rob, a Yorkshireman born in Wakefield, has joined YCP from Tilia Homes, previously known as Kier Living. A graduate of at Nottingham Trent University, Rob has also worked with leading accountancy firm Armstrong Watson. 

He commented: “This is a tremendously exciting move for me. Yorkshire Country Properties are a trailblazer in the development of beautiful, state-of-the-art houses, from starter homes to five-bed executive and family houses.

“It was too good an opportunity to miss. There is an excellent team already in place here and there is huge potential for growth. We have a clear vision of what we want to achieve and, personally, I will thrive on the responsibility I’ve been given.

Paul Brown explained: “I am delighted to welcome Rob to Yorkshire Country Properties. This is a very significant appointment for the company as we embark on a programme of site acquisitions and expansion. A sound and sensible financial base is crucial to every successful company and Rob will provide exactly that.

“Meanwhile these three promotions are richly deserved. Mike, Sam and Jen are all very talented and are committed to making YCP the very best housebuilder in West Yorkshire. Their experience and expertise have already proved invaluable and – together – they comprise a superb management team. I am very lucky and proud to have such an excellent team to support me in growing our company and achieving our targets.”

Mike May commented: “During the past three years, the company has made a positive and focussed contribution to the housing provision in the Kirklees and West Yorkshire area. Apart from a completed development at Netherthong, Holmfirth, where every single one of the 22 beautiful houses built were sold, YCP are now on site at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.

“All three of these new developments are providing much-needed housing, including a significant number of starter homes, enabling young people to get on to the property ladder. Our starter homes at Phase One at Shepley and Skelmanthorpe have now sold out, underpinning our contribution to both the community and to sustainability in the three villages.”

Sam McGregor explained: ““We are currently building 147 beautiful, high-quality homes and, in total, we are looking at a potential pipeline of over 700 new homes.  Given the current uncertainty of the mortgage and financial markets, we are placing more emphasis than ever on high quality and product differentiation. 

“Clearly, the current state of the housing market presents challenges, but we are confident that the quality of our houses combined with the enthusiasm and commitment of our wonderful team here at YCP will enable us to continue to deliver the kind of homes that are needed across all demographics in Yorkshire.”

Jenny Wass added: “It’s exciting to be involved in such a dynamic and thriving company, I love property and I love people so working with the YCP brand which is all about delivering an exceptional experience and product to our customers is very rewarding. My previous role in Customer Service within YCP really helps me understand our customers and have them top of mind in whatever we deliver in our Marketing mix.”

NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM

FLOURISHING YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES STRENGTHENS MANAGEMENT TEAM

YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES APPOINT SAVILLS TO MARKET PRESTIGIOUS YORKSHIRE DEVELOPMENTS

A flourishing Yorkshire-based residential developer has appointed award-winning national property consultancy Savills to market its three developments in West Yorkshire.
Yorkshire Country Properties is currently on site with attractive and highly regarded developments at Shepley, Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale.

Paul Brown, managing director of Yorkshire Country Properties, commented: “We are excited to be in partnership with Savills on these developments. The brand synergy is obvious – we build high quality, tailored homes for our customers, in beautiful locations, that support individual customer needs. 

“With three developments ongoing, and more in planning stages, we have a strong pipeline for which we welcome Savills’ expertise and support in realising.”

Developed by Yorkshire Country Properties, the mix of one, two, three, four and five-bedroom homes across sites in Denby Dale, Skelmanthorpe and Shepley are attracting a range of buyers, with starter homes among the 147 properties to be built in total – 46 of which have already been sold or reserved. 
 
Anne Haggas, head of Yorkshire residential development sales at Savills in Leeds, revealed: “There has already been a surge of early interest in the homes on all three sites, predominantly because of their attractive appearance, competitive pricing, high-quality design, top interior specification and excellent locations. The combination is irresistible and is fuelling the demand we are currently seeing in these schemes.”  

The first phase of the Knowle Grange scheme in Shepley comprises 31 new homes, including six one-bedroom starter cottages, all of which have been sold.  Located on Abbey Road, the exterior of each property is made from natural tumbled Yorkshire stone. The second phase of the development, which will see a further 52 high-quality homes built, is expected to complete in the summer of 2025.

Additional developments at The Willows, Denby Dale and Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe will both offer a range of one-to-five-bedroom properties and are expected to complete between summer and autumn of next year. Already a number of properties on both sites have been reserved.

Anne Haggas added: “Yorkshire Country Properties have a proven track record of producing homes of character that meet the demands of modern living and we are delighted to have been appointed to market The Willows, Knowle Grange and Whistle Bell Court. The property market throughout Yorkshire has been performing particularly well this year, in spite of the challenges that people have faced and, added to the prime village locations of each of these sites, we anticipate continued strong demand across the region and wider UK.”

YCP APPOINT SAVILLS TO MARKET DEVELOPMENTS

YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES APPOINT SAVILLS TO MARKET PRESTIGIOUS YORKSHIRE DEVELOPMENTS 

Yorkshire Country Properties, one of the leading residential property developers in the north of England, has been shortlisted for two major awards.

The Huddersfield-based company is in contention to win the Best Housebuilder of the Year and the Best Residential Development of the Year (fewer than 100 homes) in the prestigious Yorkshire Property Industry Awards

The winners of the YPIA awards, organised by Yorkshire Business Insider magazine, will be announced at a glittering ceremony at New Dock Hall in Leeds on Thursday September 21.

Since Yorkshire Country Properties was founded in 2017, the company has established a strong reputation for building dream country properties surrounded by the stunning Yorkshire countryside.

Managing director Paul Brown commented: “We are tremendously proud to have been shortlisted in these two hotly contested categories in the Yorkshire Property Industry Awards. Huge thanks are due to the management team and employees at Yorkshire Country Properties for their imagination, enterprise and hard work, which have all combined towards our success.”

YCP selects desirable village locations close to a wide range of amenities, highly rated local schools and with easy connections by road or rail to towns like Huddersfield, Wakefield, Barnsley, Leeds and Manchester, as well as the M1. As housebuilders, the company respects the heritage of the communities it is part of by paying close attention to every detail of the planning, construction and home buying process. YCP chooses sustainable, characterful materials that complement their natural surroundings.
Yorkshire Country Properties are currently on site with developments at Knowle Grange, Shepley, which has been shortlisted in the YPIA awards, Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe in West Yorkshire.

Paul Brown explained: “We strongly believe our Shepley development will be viewed favourably by future generations, both because of its appearance with beautiful Yorkshire stone, but also because our homes enabled young couples and single parents to get on to the property ladder at a very challenging time for the housing market. There is nothing like this development in the surrounding area and that is a key reason why we believe Knowle Grange will stand the test of time.

“Overall, we have made a positive and focussed contribution to the housing provision in the Kirklees and West Yorkshire area. We have completed a development at Netherthong, where we have sold every single one of the 22 beautiful houses we built, while our three current developments are providing much-needed housing, including a significant number of starter homes, enabling young people to get on to the property ladder.”

The starter homes at Phase One at Shepley have sold out, underpinning their contribution to both the community and to sustainability in the three villages.  In total, YCP is building 147 beautiful, high-quality homes – from one-bed starter homes to five-bed family homes. In all, the company is looking at a possible pipeline of over 700 new homes.

Take a look at our Knowle Grange development – shortlisted as ‘Best Residential Development of the Year (fewer than 100 homes)'

SHORT-LISTED FOR TWO PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS 

YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES SHORT-LISTED FOR TWO PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

It seems just like yesterday when we proudly commenced work on our first major development at Deyne Brook Court in the village of Netherthong, to build 22 exquisite new homes, which are now all sold and occupied. 

Fast forward to June 2023 and we are on site at Knowle Grange, Shepley, Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe and The Willows at Denby Dale. In total, we are building 147 beautiful, high-quality homes – from one-bed starter homes to five-bed family homes.

Feedback from buyers and visitors to our recently opened Customer Experience Hub at Knowle Grange has been amazing.  We are delighted.

To get to where we are now in such a short timeframe, has seen us both replace and appoint a raft of new, dedicated and experienced housebuilding professionals – board directors, construction managers, designers, marketing experts, customer care managers and sales support staff.  All are totally committed to building and reinforcing the DNA of our business and to ensuring its future success.

A big part of this transformation has seen us reviewing the housing market as a whole and reconsidering our potential impact on it and place within it.

Consequently, we have undergone a brand refresh, updated our website and have developed an exciting and ambitious plan for growth.

As our name implies, we began life very much as a Yorkshire housebuilder. However, given that we are now steadily gaining recognition for the quality of our new homes, we are ambitious to take our unique housebuilding approach further afield and our plans are quite profound. 

In all, we are looking at a possible pipeline of over 700 new homes. 

Given the current uncertainty of the mortgage and financial markets, our plans have not been consolidated lightly.  I believe that while it may well be a smaller cake, we will aim to secure a bigger slice of it, because I believe that great things will always sell, even in tough times, if the quality is high and product differentiation is in-built.

We are massively aware of issues surrounding rising energy costs so our green initiatives on our new sites will respond to housing concerns with a range of energy-saving features.

Our new homes will be highly customisable so that they can be designed around the unique needs of your family.

It is important to us that we help preserve the natural environment and limit environmental impact so that we can live more sustainably, encourage wildlife and reduce our carbon footprint.  To this end, we will include a range of habitat features to help create woodland which will benefit wildlife for years to come.

Our standard house specification is already high, but the scope we offer buyers to upgrade, is significant.
In essence, we are in the process of perfecting who we are and what we do, before lighting the blue touch paper.

We hope for those who have already bought a home from us, it marks the start of a lifelong relationship.
If you are reading this and looking for your next new home, be sure to contact our Customer Experience Manager on 01484 599454 to walk our development sites and visit our Customer Experience Hub.

We hope you agree it’s time for a new way of living.


WHAT’S NEXT?

WHAT’S NEXT AT YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES?

Fraizer Campbell, the ex-England International footballer, was the guest of honour at the celebration of our acclaimed Knowle Grange residential development at Abbey Road, Shepley, near Huddersfield. 

Campbell, who played for Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Huddersfield Town, Hull City and Sunderland, as well as representing England at different age levels, spoke about the Premier League quality of the prime Abbey Road development.

Other guests at the official launch of our Customer Experience Hub included MP for Dewsbury, Mark Eastwood, and Coun John Taylor, Deputy Leader of the Conservatives on Kirklees Council and Shepley resident.

Phase 1 of the Shepley development comprises 31 stone-built houses, ranging from one bed to five beds, of which 19 have already been sold. Work has just started on site on Phase 2, comprising a further 52 homes, which are scheduled to be completed by July 2025.

We are tremendously proud of our Knowle Grange development in Shepley. Phase I has proved very popular, with more than half the houses sold already and with strong interest in the remaining 14.

The prices at Knowle Grange range from £150,000 for a starter home to five-bedroom houses at around £700,000.

The Shepley development is a fantastic showcase for Yorkshire Country Properties. We are very conscious of building homes with both character and individuality, which blend in seamlessly with their immediate surroundings. Traditional stone exteriors, combined with contemporary interiors and stunning views, make our properties highly prized and unique.

Fraizer Campbell enthused: “The show house at Knowle Grange is wonderful.  It’s clean, with spacious rooms and it’s well-presented.  I love the stonework outside – Yorkshire stone – and it just has a real feelgood factor to it.  Yes, I could see myself living here – I have three young children and a dog.  There is ample space.  It is a beautiful home.

“I would suggest anyone to come and have a look around the show home yourself and just experience it.  If you are not great at envisaging stuff it would be good for you to come and have a look. My favourite room was the one at the top of the house, the cinema room - a big TV, big couch - a hideaway. If the kids are going mad, you could just sneak off upstairs with a small glass of wine and ignore everyone else.”

Mark Eastwood MP commented: “This superb development is exactly what this area needs. It combines starter homes, enabling young people to climb on to the property ladder, sustainability and real character and quality. Yorkshire Country Properties should be congratulated on what they have achieved.”

Coun John Taylor added: “As a Shepley resident, I am very proud of this wonderful new addition to our village. I have supported this sensitive development, which is perfectly in tune with the character and ambience of the rest of Shepley, since the early planning stages and it is very satisfying to see the original vision become reality and be so successful.”

Knowle Grange resident Rowan Pavlovic commented: “When I saw the original artist’s impression of the development, I knew I wanted to live here. And I haven’t regretted my decision at any stage. I love the combination of the traditional stone exterior with the magnificent contemporary interior. Everything is just right – and I would highly recommend living here.”

Meanwhile work is now well underway at our state-of-the-art development at Station Road, Skelmanthorpe, near Huddersfield, where 30 houses will be ready for occupation next year. Average prices will be between £350,000 and £450,000, with starter homes from £148,000.

A prime site has also been bought at Denby Dale, where work has started on 34 homes. All sites have been carefully chosen for their proximity to excellent facilities, including schools, shops and leisure facilities, and for their easy access to nearby commuter towns and cities.

These are exciting times for us. Our reputation for building fine country properties in and around the Yorkshire area, with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship, is growing fast. A key part of our success lies in the fact that we work closely with our purchasers, creating the ideal home for them.”
This model has worked perfectly at Netherthong, near Holmfirth, where our development of 22 prestige homes has completely sold out.

The pretty villages around Huddersfield and Holmfirth have recently been named as property hotspots by the Sunday Times and Zoopla, who both praise the combination of countryside, connectivity and communities full of independence and imagination, with trains to Leeds and Manchester offering a wonderful opportunity for people who work in the two cities, but want a cheaper or more rural alternative.

ENGLAND INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALLER HAILS OUR PREMIER LEAGUE SHEPLEY DEVELOPMENT

Anyone looking for a high-quality new home in the West Yorkshire area is being encouraged to visit Yorkshire Country Properties’ (YCP’s) Customer Experience Hub, which opens this weekend, 6th May, at its Knowle Grange development on Abbey Road, Shepley HD8 8GL.

 

Here, YCP has conveniently brought together under one roof, a range of some of its highest quality fixtures and fittings in its show home.

 

Sam McGregor, customer experience manager explains: “Would-be buyers can see at first-hand the tremendous quality of craftsmanship and careful thought that goes into each and every one of our new homes.

 

“We are very excited about the opening so that we can share our vision with the house-buying public, in person, and demonstrate the wide range of interior design solutions we can provide.

## **YCP looks at housebuilding differently.**

“While we already offer an unparalleled choice of kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, fixtures and fittings with tailor-made packages available on request, in the near future we are ambitious for our Customer Experience Hub to provide real time experience for customers, using the latest technology, so that we can design different looks and colour schemes on our screens – right before their eyes!

 

“We make homes of the highest quality so that our buyers can live their best lives and by visiting our Customer Experience Hub and show home, we hope to bring those words to life when visitors see for themselves that YCP looks at housebuilding differently.

## **A new look for YCP is just around the corner.**

“In fact, we are undergoing quite a few changes to our branding – new colours, a new logo and a longer-term vision for the future, which is really exciting - we will be revealing more about that very soon. In the meantime, though, some of these changes are already visible on our new signage, which is all together brighter and more dynamic than it used to be and our new strap line - ‘Live life in colour’ - captures the essence of what we are all about.”

 

The Customer Experience Hub is open (Monday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm).  Parking is available on site, Shepley HD8 8GL.

 

Call Sam, Kate or Hannah on 01484 599454 to arrange a personalised viewing,

or email: [hello@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk](hello@yorkshirecountryproperties.co.uk).  

New Customer Experience Hub at Shepley

YORKSHIRE COUNTRY PROPERTIES LAUNCHES CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE   HUB AT IT’S SHEPLEY SITE

# RESERVE THE FELL BY 8TH MAY AND WE’LL PAY YOUR STAMP DUTY!

To celebrate the Coronation, we have a fabulous offer on The Fell house type, which you can find at our Shepley and Skelmanthorpe sites.
 
If you reserve before 8th May, we will pay your stamp duty - just imagine how useful that extra cash could be when buying a new house!
 
The Fell is a three-bedroom townhouse, available on plots 3,10 and 31 at our Shepley site and plots 8 and 9 at Whistle Bell Court, Skelmanthorpe.
 
Designed with family living in mind, The Fell has a stylish kitchen/diner, a living room with bi-fold doors opening onto the rear terrace and garden area, creating more space for every day living when the great British weather permits! A generous store room, downstairs WC and single detached garage are also included.

The first floor consists of two double bedrooms and the main bathroom, while on the second floor, you will find a generous master bedroom with ensuite.
 
This is a tremendous offer for those who can act quickly and what’s more YCP can also offer tailor-made fit-out packages so that you can personalise your new home, making it look and feel exactly right for you!  
 
Call us on **01484 599 454** to find out more about this offer or look for The Fell on our website where you’ll find more information about this house type.


Special Coronation Offer

The roll-out of starter homes in West Yorkshire by Yorkshire Country Properties (YCP) is proving a resounding success.

Much-needed starter homes are an integral part of YCP’s new developments at Skelmanthorpe and Denby Dale, while they have sold out at Shepley and Netherthong.
YCP’s Sam McGregor explained: “We have been both proud and delighted by the success of our starter homes initiative. It is so important to help young people to get on to the property ladder and to experience the joy and the security of owning their first home.

“Whistle Bell Court, our brand-new development at Skelmanthorpe, near Huddersfield, is now taking shape and we are offering first-time buyers the chance to purchase one of our six one-bedroom starter homes called Valley Cottages. Prices start from £148,000.

“Three of the six have already been reserved and it’s easy to see why. Under the starter homes scheme, they are priced at 20 per cent less than their market value. Built from natural Yorkshire stone, Valley Cottages have tremendous kerb appeal, but that’s not all.  Step inside and you’ll discover that our starter homes provide everything you need for modern living.

“As with all our homes, we have included some fabulous double-glazed French doors so you can extend your living space outside - and in a Valley Cottage, that means onto a rear patio/garden area - a perfect spot for some after work relaxation. Your own piece of heaven.”

YCP’s development at Denby Dale, which has just started on site, comprises eight starter homes which will be released soon. Sam expects huge interest in these, too.

She explained: “The starter homes scheme is an imaginative initiative by the Government to help first-time buyers purchase a home where the discounted price is less than £250,000. You must be between 23 and 40 years old and your gross combined household income must be below £80,000 a year.

“We design homes which allow you to live your best life - homes of a timeless quality to provide a positive work-life balance, which is so essential for today’s busy lifestyles. For us, property is a way of life, which is why we take so much care with each of our customers to ensure we build a lifelong relationship. Our starter homes are the beginning of this relationship.”

A starter home buyer at YCP’s sold-out development at Netherthong enthused: “I would like to say a massive thank you for everything YCP and your team have done for me. I found all the staff super supportive, answering all my questions quickly and with a full answer. I thought moving into a new area, not knowing people, would be a daunting task but you made the transition super easy.”