It's Chinese whispers on the Wentworth Estate; rental homes in Sunningdale

As you know rental homes in Sunningdale and the Wentworth Estate are very sought after.

Since the purchase back in 2014, the new Chinese owners have made little change to this long established country club but today it has been announced that revolution is underway. 

The Wentworth Club, home to the annual PGA Championship, has always been frequented by the rich and famous, not to mention the odd Royal, with full membership for a couple commanding a first payment on joining of nearly £39,000. 

Those who weren't full Wentworth Members could however also come and pay and play as corporate guests. But from 1st April 2017 this club will become "fully private" using a debenture scheme. 

James Wyatt, Partner at Barton Wyatt, Wentworth resident and Club Member, comments:

"At the lively AGM, 400 members were informed that in 2017 they will have to pay a debenture of £100,000 and annuals subs of £16,000. Membership will be offered only if the Wentworth board members approve the 'application'. New members will pay a debenture of £125,000.

This marks a massive change to the existing club set up, but the Chief Executive Steven Webster told us that the club need significant investment in the golf courses, clubhouse and tennis club.

However, the current Captain slammed the owners lack of communication with the members, explaining that members wanted value for money - and for the Club to be inclusive not exclusive.

Over the years, we have seen plenty of changes at Wentworth, and very few of those changes have been popular at first glance. But it is clear that Wentworth members after 2017 will have rather more space to themselves".

For more details on the changes coming to The Wentworth Club contact James Wyatt on 01344 843000.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property for sale in Ascot. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Estate Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Barton Wyatt welcomes Chinese purchase of The Wentworth Group

The announcement of the acquisition of The Wentworth Group in Surrey by a large Chinese Investment company, Reignwood Group, spells good news for Surrey's Wentworth and Virginia Water.

The Wentworth Club is one of the world's finest golf and country clubs set in an oasis less than an hour from central London.  Consisting of a famous castellated Clubhouse, three championship golf courses, a Tennis & Health Club, an active social calendar and dining inspired by The Ivy and Le Caprice also owned by Richard Caring.

Barton Wyatt, the leading estate agents in Surrey, are delighted with the news.  James Wyatt, partner of the firm explains:

"Rumours have been flying around for months about the sale of The Wentworth Club.  Richard Caring has been open about his ambition to sell this part of his empire and release capital for other ventures.

"It was all just a case of who had the money for this hugely expensive slice of Surrey.  We are delighted it is now settled and we are most excited by having internationally renowned Chinese owners at the helm. 

"This purchase by a major Chinese group will undoubtedly expand the Wentworth Brand globally.  This in turn will open new doors, bring new markets to our estate and of course more wealth outside of London to the Home Counties."

The Reignwood Group has purchased Wentworth for a jaw dropping sum of £135m. Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang, founder of The Reignwood Group in 1984, commented,

"Reignwood has a long history in golf development, a profound respect for excellence in every form and deep interest in East-West cooperation.

"As a world famous golf institution, Wentworth is a key strategic acquisition for our rapidly growing luxury lifestyle division, whose unique culture we are dedicated to preserving and whose exceptional expertise will inform our golf operations across Asia."

Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang is also known more familiarly as Yan Bin and has a multitude of feathers in his cap including being the man who brought the energy drink Red Bull from Thailand to China. Three years later, he started building the Wonderland Amusement Park, not dissimilar to Disneyland near Beijing.

In 2000, he built China's largest golf resort, the Pine Valley Resort in Beijing, which caters to a luxury crowd: in 2009 the course was awarded the Multimillionaires' Most Favourite Golf Course in Beijing.

Yan Bin has grown his fortune on the back of a strong performance in sales of Red Bull energy drinks in China, and with sales expected to hit US$800 million this year, it is estimated that his personal wealth is $8.17 billion.

James Wyatt says:

"In my mind golf and the Chinese sit in harmony together.  Asia has become golf mad over the past few decades and are already regular visitors to Wentworth.  Hopefully now they will move into leafy Surrey and become part of our rich and diverse international tapestry. 

"I for one would be thrilled to see some dim sum on the menu at The Wentworth Club!"

For more details contact Barton Wyatt Surrey Estate Agents.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

An Overview of Properties for Sale in Wentworth Estate, Surrey

The Wentworth Estate is a privately owned property covering about 1750 acres of land. The estate is characterized by a wide range of luxury mansions, houses and facilities. Over the last few years, several multi-millionaires from all the corners of the earth are investing in the properties in the Wentworth Estate. These include renowned world businessmen, famous sports personalities and tycoons. It should also be remembered that even the former Chilean dictator, General Augusto Pinochet lived in the Wentworth Estate in the 1990s.

Currently, the average price for properties for sale in Wentworth Estate is quite high. Nevertheless, Wentworth real estate market has a lot to offer for property investors and buyers. Many people are interested in property for sale in Wentworth Estate because the area has one of the least crime rates in the country. Safety is often given the top priority when a person is planning to invest a fortune in the property market. That is why rich people find the area a safe place to stay.

For individuals looking to live next to millionaires and renowned celebrities, Wentworth Estate is certainly be a great option. With its famous Virginia Water Lake and golf course, this place is recognized all over the world as a home of wealthy and famous individuals.

There are many reasons why one should invest in Wentworth Estate. The property prices are rising at the fastest pace. Therefore, purchasing a home in the area can be seen as a great and attractive long term investment. No matter the intentions and ambitions of a person, the Wentworth Estate is one of the most stunning and exclusive estates in the world. There is no doubt, the area is classy and this sophistication and beauty lures the wealthy people to purchase homes in the area.

Buying a home has always been a tiresome task, and hence should be done with a lot of caution. One has to be sure about the property as this can protect him or her from legal issues and hassles. Since purchasing a property in Wentworth involves a lot of money, one should consider a few factors before making the final decision. For example, one might want to check the title deeds. The title should have the name of the person selling the property. It is also important to ask for the original copies of the documents. People, more often than not, prefer to show photocopies of the original documents. This is the most crucial aspect that must be addressed prior to finalizing the deal. And in so doing, one will be able to make an informed decision.

Purchasing a home in the area is not as difficult as it used to be. It is imperative to search for the right property for sale in Wentworth Estate. This will depend on how one conducts his or her research. If a buyer will be able to find the perfect home then it will certainly help him or her feel satisfied. It is important to ensure that a lot of effort is made, in case one wants to find the right property.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

60 Seconds with... James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt

60 Seconds with...  James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt an award-winning Surrey estate agency selling to the rich and famous on the Wentworth Estate in Surrey.

What does it say on your business card?

It says James Wyatt - Partner.  But to be honest I rarely use business cards these days - they are a bit old hat.  More likely to connect on LinkedIn or have a tweet chat!

Barton Wyatt is a family business - when did you first get involved?

Well when I was born we lived in a flat above the office where it is now, so it would be fair to say I have lived and breathed Barton Wyatt since infancy.  By the time I was 10 I was used to helping with envelope stuffing or good old fashioned leaflet delivery.  On leaving school I was ready to embark on a full time position - which I did in another agency in Weybridge and then in London.  My father felt it only correct that I earned my stripes elsewhere before returning to the family business.  So officially I started at 21 - 27 years ago!

What makes Barton Wyatt different from other local Agencies?

I am glad to say there are no poor agencies in the local area and we all generally enjoy a great working relationship.  We have to as we often work together as joint agents for house sales.  However I do believe we are different - we are not a large corporate and demands are not being made of us by share-holders in the City.  This means we can be adaptable to create the best possible environment for our clients and our staff. 

We are all very passionate about what we do here and will often go the extra mile to be the best.  I guess that is one of the reasons we have won so many awards.  Our customers certainly do return time and time again.  I have sold some people in the area half a dozen houses as they have upsized, side stepped and now downsized over the years.

How do Wentworth and Virginia Water differ from other local villages?

There are lots of lovely villages in the local area but Wentworth really is a bit special.  As soon as you turn into any of the private Estate roads you do feel that you are entering a slightly more exotic land.  The lanes are extremely leafy and the houses are set far back from the road.  You can really only glimpse the odd balustrade or column as you pass past often very lavish gates.  People here are terribly private - they don't want passers-by gazing into their lives and many go to extreme lengths to remain hidden. 

On the flip side when you are at Wentworth Golf Club it is wonderfully sociable.  There are kid's events, golf tournaments, tennis tournaments, annual balls, charity events galore and all sorts to get involved in so there is no need to be lonely if you live on Wentworth.

What has attracted so much wealth to Wentworth?

There is no denying it, Wentworth is classy and this air of glamour and sophistication is the thing that lures the rich and famous to buy a ring side seat on these illustrious courses.  The central part of the Wentworth Estate is known to the locals as 'The Island'. This just adds to the feeling of exclusivity that seems to pervade the whole area. And with a long list of rich and famous on your doorstep it would be hard not to be impressed. 

What is the best bit of your job?

No day is the same. I could be discussing an investment with a local, then letting a house to an American, followed by a meeting with a foreign Royal, then with a famous Film Director to deal with. It can be great fun.

Describe a typical Wentworth resident?

I would say typically savvy and confident.  Most residents are at the top of their trade, captains of industry and, very often, business owners.  A large percentage of the estate is multi-national - the list is endless as tides shift on international business.  Currently there are many Middle Eastern families, Malay, Russian, US and Kazaks.  Many of these families are renting, so every three years the make-up of parts of Wentworth changes as the corporate mood alters.

What does 2014 hold for Barton Wyatt?

Judging by current activity it is going to be ferociously busy.  We have had a very sedentary period in sales - really ever since stamp duty was massively increased.  Lettings continued to thrive but sales were horribly quiet.  The London ripple affect at last appears to be nudging at our doors and, within a matter of a few weeks, things have become incredibly hectic.  I would suggest that if this level of interest and activity continues then Wentworth should be set to see a 10% growth in property prices for 2014.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property in Wentworth Estate. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Celebrating 40 years of the humble postcode. What's been going on in GU25 in the past four decades?

It's been 40 years since postcodes were rolled-out across the UK to make letter sorting easier.  Originally trialled in Norwich, 1974 saw this revolutionary new method of speedily identifying addresses being used throughout the rest of the UK. Often taken for granted, the simple postcode has transformed the way that sorting offices quickly organise mail to speed up the delivery to the end user. There are now 1.8 million postcodes covering 29 million addresses across the country.

Indeed the humble postcode has become an automatic way in which we identify ourselves and get around.  With two thirds of the country finding it easier to navigate with a sat nav, the old fashioned map is becoming a thing of the past.  Just key in the postcode and off you go! Hard to believe that 40 years ago this wonderful system did not exist.

Indeed one of the many sectors highly affected by the creation of the postcode is estate agency.

James Wyatt, partner of leading Surrey Letting Agent, Barton Wyatt comments:

"I was only a lad when the postcode was introduced but I was still actively involved in the family business.  My brother Rupert and I were often tasked with delivering leaflets door to door extolling the virtues of selling your house through Barton Wyatt so I felt like a postman sometimes! It might sound jolly but door-to-door delivery is not fun in Virginia Water and the Wentworth Estate. The plots are big and the drives seem endless when you are just 11 years old."

Another sector that has relied on the postcode is demographic classification. Used in the UK to describe, measure and classify people of different social grade, income and earnings levels this data is essential for market research, social commentary, statistical research and analysis. 

"Wentworth, Virginia Water and surrounding villages are all A1 classified," mulls James, "We are very fortunate to live in such an affluent area.  And it was like this 40 years ago when the postcode was invented - as it will be in another 40.  But things have not stood still - a lot changes in housing in 40 years!"

Forty years ago a new house sitting on half an acre in Wentworth would have had an internal size of 2,000 square feet and the house would have gone on the market at about £55,000.  This would have been a large house by UK standards then.  Today a new house on Wentworth will be around 7,000 square feet and will cost a buyer £4,000,000. 

And if you are wondering about flats - the sizes have not altered greatly but the cost has.  In 1974 you would expect to pay £10,000 for a 2 bedroom flat - today you could pay between £250,000 and £400,000.

The 'must have' gadget in the kitchen if you were flashy in 1974 was a dishwasher; incredibly this white good is the same price today as it was then.  A cheaper toy, but all the rage in the middle classes, was a Sodastream, with its violent coloured concentrates and endless flow of sparkling beverages.  The "Get busy with the fizzy" tagline has been re-launched recently as Sodastream attempts a return to its original fame. 

Back in the 70's houses were all being refitted with shag pile carpets and chocolate bathroom suites sporting gold taps.  In the garden, you were considered dead trendy if you had a ride on mower and slightly vulgar if you had a swimming pool.  Today it's cool to have a gardener and a bit retro to have a hot-tub.

On the driveway you had made it if you had a Reliant Scimitar in Mexico brown with a vinyl roof and if you were really flashy, a webasto sunroof.  The ladies would have liked to be seen in a Dolomite Sprint, a bit of a GTI in its day, the most popular colour in 1974 being deep purple.  Today it's a 4x4 all the way with the odd drop head Mercedes for sunny days and a VW Golf for the nanny.

James mulls over some differences in the workplace too,

"Selling houses was considerably less electronic. Your estate agent would measure up your house with a tape measure, he or she would count the power points, take note of the dado rail and get excited by the number of aspects. A photo and typed up details would be carefully placed in the agent's window and an advert would appear in the local paper... and then we would wait for the perfect buyer. 

"Like most businesses, all estate agents would close for lunch, and very few would open on a Saturday - and if they did then certainly not for long.  It was fun working in an estate agency then and still today.  Much has progressed but actually people still buy from people and that will never change. Our clients return time and time again, they pop in for a chin wag and they are the life blood of our business.  I was addicted then and I still am!"

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Estate Agents Surrey. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Surrey House Trend Watch - Going Underground

Traditionally, the British have been a fiercely proud home owning nation and since the Queen came to her throne in 1953, the proportion of owner occupiers in England has steadily increased from 32% up to a peak of about 75% in 1981 (70% today).

Homeowners have always found ways of showing-off their property whether it be thousands of gaudy lights at Christmas, an over abundance of colourful hanging baskets in Spring or simply by building a property larger than your next door neighbour. Showing off by building tall buildings has been in vogue for centuries - in the picture postcard village of San Gimignano in Italy, the local wealthy merchants built taller and taller towers to signify their wealth and importance and that was back in the 11th to 13th Century. Even today, designers and architects cannot help themselves but build higher and higher skyscrapers all over the world, to impress.

Saying that the latest trend in the golden commuter land of Surrey - where turning your house into a skyscraper is just not an option - is to bury underground and build enormous basements. This is due to tough greenbelt policies which normally allows an owner of a modest-sized house on a good-sized garden plot to add to or rebuild his house with just 30% extra floor space. This leaves owners with only one choice, which is to dig down and create space underground. London terraced-house owners have been doing this for the last 20 years - creating rooms where the cellar was - often making laundry rooms and play rooms.

The problem with these underground rooms is the difficulty in getting any good natural light to the subterranean room. But architects have become more and more wily at stealing light from up-stairs that quite often now you would not know that you had gone underground. However, whilst it might seem attractive to extend your house by 5,000 square feet or even a lot more, what can you actually do with all that space?

The answer is that you become creative in the type of rooms you install and with some careful planning and consideration this space can become life changing. James Wyatt, Managing Director of Barton Wyatt letting agents in Surrey had some enlightening information on what goes on downstairs:

"There are a few fairly obvious choices, firstly the plant room. Not of the green and leafy variety but the machinery which is required to run your home - industrial sized boilers - man-enough to heat the pool, AC units - man-enough to cool it down. Electronic wizardry to run your alarm, your lighting system and phones. Maybe the latest state-or-the-art music system with the ability to pipe any song ever written through to any room you desire.

"You might want a communications room containing racks and racks of audio visual machinery and patch panels with wiring that would frighten most. In a large house this might contain numerous satellite boxes, a number of huge hard drives for your new music and video collection and so the list goes on.

"The next obvious room to bury is the laundry. American top load washing machine, tumble dryer, maybe a spare fridge/freezer and plenty of space to store, iron and fold. It is not uncommon to find a laundry shoot from the upstairs bathrooms - saving the bore of carrying it all downstairs.

"Cinema rooms come high on people's lists for very clear reasons and with improvements in technology, these can be incredibly grand affairs. It is of course budget dependent but anything from a run-or-the-mill sofa to luxury reclining leather seats.

"Wine cellars are an immensely sensible thing to put underground, since every wine maker in Europe stores their wine beneath the ground - then why shouldn't us mere mortals.

"Swimming pools are proving to be increasingly popular for underground space. A reasonable-sized indoor pool with seating areas, changing rooms, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room could use up as much as 2,500 square feet. Multi gyms are also in vogue with an array of gym equipment and the latest pilates apparatus to ensure supreme fitness.

"Garaging - well that speaks for itself. And of course staffing accomodation - out of the way of the main part of the house but still close enough for child care.

"Maybe all of the above might seem rather obvious - this space is yours to do what you like with - a hair dressing salon, massage room, fake tan spraying booth or in one rather extreme case - a gift wrapping room."

Here's an example of a house available in the locality of Barton Wyatt which include underground space:

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Super Suburbs: Best Buys on the market in Virginia Water today

Both the Daily Telegraph and the Daily Mail have features in the last week about the property market in Virginia Water in Surrey. 

  

The Telegraph identified "London's super suburbs: the most valuable property markets" whilst the Mail cried out "Millionaire's row spreads out of London as average cost of homes hits £1 million in more than 40 areas".

Virginia Water is well known locally for its leafy lanes hiding palatial mansions but this recent national press interest could spell good news for vendors in the area as more buyers from London are made aware of the green and pleasant lands of North Surrey. 

Indeed many prime London property owners have made a packet on property in the past few years and are looking for new areas to live whilst still wishing to invest their money wisely.

Rupert Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt, the leading estate agency in Virginia Water comments on the headline news:

"It is of no surprise that Virginia Water has been identified as a Super Suburb; we have been saying this for a long time. Some of our buyers own several homes, a London pad, a ski chalet and somewhere in the sun but Virginia Water is where they come to actually live rather than float in and out of. 

"With a choice of high quality international schools, a raft of top level sports facilities and speedy links to Heathrow, Gatwick and central London, Virginia Water ticks all the boxes for busy international business men and women. We are predicting steady rises in property prices over the next few years - we see no reason why gains such as 15-20% are not achievable and potentially these gains could be reached in the next couple of years."

So, which one of these five Virginia Water properties would you most like to own?

Trumps Mill Cottage is the oldest house in Virginia Water with parts dating back to 1483. It is set in informal gardens, with a wonderful mill pond. The remainder of its 14 acre grounds consists of magnificent woodland, with mature trees and carpets of bluebells.

This unique former Mill is now converted into a spacious family home and retains many original character features.  It has been thoughtfully updated by the existing owners with modern kitchen and bathrooms throughout.

The property features a master bedroom suite with dressing room and luxury en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two further bedrooms, family bathroom, WC, drawing room, dining room, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, entrance hall, utility/cloakroom, cellar and workshops. Priced at £1,950,000

Whickham is a recently completed, brand new classically styled and luxuriously appointed family home, ready for immediate occupation and fully furnished.  The house sits on a south facing corner plot on the exclusive Wentworth Estate.

The property has a superb layout ideally suited to the contemporary family lifestyle. The hub of the house is a stunning kitchen with state of the art appliances. On the first floor is a very generous master bedroom suite and encompassing a dressing room, large bathroom and sitting room area. Over the double garage is a well-equipped staff/au-pair suite with its own entrance and staircase to be self-contained if desired.

On the second floor, there is the fifth bedroom and bathroom as well as an adaptable games room which of course could also be a sixth bedroom. The property has been fully furnished by award winning interior designers, Alexander James, and is ready for immediate occupation for a superb lifestyle. Priced at £4,250,000

4 Virginia Drive was built in 2006 for the current owners by Huf Haus, the German construction company renowned for their build quality and precise engineering. Theproperty has been immaculately maintained and is now presented for sale in beautiful condition throughout. The home offers a unique experience with a tremendous feeling of space and light, large windows being the theme throughout the house.

The accommodation is set over two floors. The ground floor reception rooms are mainly open plan with the garden being drawn to the house by the large windows which are all fitted with electric blinds for shading and security. Further ground floor rooms include a beautiful guest bedroom suite and a separate study/play room. On the first floor there is a very large landing area which doubles as a library/TV lounge and a gallery overlooking the dining area. The three first floor bedrooms all have large windows with vaulted ceilings. Priced at £2,450.000

Abbots Warren is a house ripe for someone who wants to put their mark on it.  It is in good order but would benefit from some changes. 

The property currently has 4/5 receptions and a large kitchen/breakfast room.  The master bedroom suite has a wonderful balcony overlooking the gardens and pool, a guest bedroom suite also has a balcony.  Three further bedrooms and a family bathroom complete the first floor.  A triple garage with office/annexe over is ideal for a home office or staff. 

The south facing rear garden has a large sun terrace, swimming pool and covered BBQ area and is a really lovely feature of the home. Priced at £2,750,000

Four Winds is a stunning brand new executive home, constructed to the highest standard of finish and specification throughout and close to the Village and local schools.

The house has a contemporary design with luxury features such as an Italian bespoke kitchen, under floor heating, quality double glazing and a built-in sound system.

The property has 3,300 square feet of accommodation and includes a magnificent kitchen/breakfast room which is open plan to a conservatory overlooking the lawned rear garden. The first includes floor four double bedrooms and three bathrooms. On the top floor there is a further bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom.

The rear garden which is fenced and lawned and has a lovely westerly aspect to catch the evening sun, ideal for BBQ's or alfresco dining!  Priced at  £1,395,000

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Estate Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Game, set and match! Get the advantage and choose a home with a tennis court

As the oldest and most prestigious grand slam event in tennis approaches, it's not just residents of Wimbledon who are eagerly anticipating the tournament. Tennis aficionados across the UK are being inspired to improve their racquet skills and interest in homes with tennis courts is reaching fever pitch, as James Wyatt, Partner of leading Sunningdale estate agency Barton Wyatt, explains,

"Luxury homes with tennis courts are always popular, but particularly so as the Wimbledon Championships approach. Homes near tennis clubs are also in demand at this time of year, both with parents who enjoy the game and families who want their children to have access to top class facilities."

One such home is Strawberry Fields, located on the exclusive Wentworth Estate in Surrey and just minutes from the Clubhouse which features golf and spa facilities as well as 13 tennis courts with a range of surfaces and year-round coaching for all ages. Strawberry Fields, on the market at £2,995,000, combines contemporary living with traditional character. It offers the latest in technology, appliances and interior design, while the landscaped garden is perfect for entertaining. A double award nominated property, Strawberry Fields is a six bedroom home complete with games room, cinema room, numerous ultra-modern bathrooms and a magnificent kitchen/breakfast/family room that opens onto the garden.

For those who require their own on-site tennis court, Barton Wyatt recommends Surrey's
Eastry House, for sale at £4,750,000. As well as a tennis court, the property boasts a swimming pool within its 4.4 acres of parkland style grounds. The five bedroom house comes with four en-suite dressing and bathrooms, five reception rooms, a well-appointed kitchen/breakfast room and a conservatory, providing plenty of space for family living and entertaining.

British house builder Millgate has also noticed the rising interest in homes with tennis courts in the run up to Wimbledon. Jonathan Cranley, Millgate's Sales and Marketing Director, commented,

"Major sporting events tend to spur buyers' interest in related properties, as the events reignite their passion for their particular sport. For tennis fans, now is the perfect time of year to buy a home with a court, ready to enjoy it throughout the warm summer months."

Millgate's current recommendation for those looking to pursue their love of tennis with their own court is Highview Manor, in the south Oxfordshire village of Boars Hill. With commanding southward views over ancient woodland, the Georgian style mansion enjoys a truly splendid location. Set in nearly two acres of grounds, the house combines traditional country living with modern elegance, all for £5,950,000.

As well as five en-suite bedrooms, the house comprises a drawing room, dining room, study, kitchen, family room, orangery/breakfast room and games room. Sports-wise it includes an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, leisure zone and all weather tennis court and pavilion. A two bedroom, detached cottage in the grounds provides further living space as part of this delightful property.

However it's not just homes in the UK with tennis courts that are attracting interest - Spain is also a prize location for such properties, which is fitting given that it was an English/Spanish duo who were credited with the birth of lawn tennis in the mid-1800s.

Taylor Wimpey España, which offers properties for sale across Spain and the Balearic Islands, has noted particular interest in its Los Altos development at Port Andratx, Mallorca. The two bedroom Mediterranean townhouses come complete with coloured façades, verandas, spacious terraces, gardens and three communal swimming pools. They benefit from spectacular sea views and are located near to Port Andratx, as well as being a stone's throw from Andratx's impressive golf course. Mallorca's rich tennis history includes the island being the birth and training place of Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time and currently ranked number 4 in the world by the Association of Tennis Professionals (as at May 2013).

In Italy, fractional ownership company Appassionata has found that the all-weather tennis court at its five bedroom/five bathroom Casa Leopardi is a key attraction for families looking to own their dream holiday home in Le Marche. The property also features a basketball court, swimming pool and easy beach access, with three blue flag beaches within 10km. Fractions are currently available for the special price of £185,000, which includes five weeks' exclusive use of the property, as well as a share in the organic produce from the estate's vineyards, olive groves, lavender plantation and truffle orchard.

Appassionata's Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs comments,

"The outdoor lifestyle is an essential part of Italian living. Our owners can spend healthy, active time with their families on the tennis court and in the pool during the day, then cool off on one of Casa Leopardi's terraces in the evenings while enjoying fresh, locally sourced meals and wine from the estate."

Over in France The Villages Group also cites tennis as one of the essential elements of its offering. Le Village-Canal du Midi, in the delightful Languedoc-Roussillon area of southern France, provides an active living community for those aged 50+. In addition to tennis, activities include archery, aerobics, equestrian events, sailing, boating and swimming in the village's outdoor and indoor pools. With house prices starting at around £200,000 and weekly maintenance of £30 covering all activities, the dream of retiring to an active community and spending days playing tennis in the sun has never been more achievable.

So as Wimbledon approaches this year, it seems that companies across Europe are bracing themselves for a flood of eager purchasers looking to live their own tennis championship dream - all on the site of their very own property.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury golf villas in Florida and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Sunningdale. Tel: 01344 843000

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie rumoured to be renting £20m mansion on the Wentworth Estate

Where else would Hollywood royalty choose to live than the 'Beverly Hills' of England, the exclusive Wentworth Estate in Surrey.

With rumours rife that the A-list couple have rented a palatial pad backing onto the famous Wentworth golf course, home to the BMW PGA Championship later this month, we asked James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt, the longest standing estate agent in the area and Wentworth resident himself, just why this is the perfect UK base for the couple and their family:

"The very fact that I was unaware of the rumours that Brad Pitt had rented a property on the Estate despite being a resident myself is exactly the appeal of Wentworth - privacy.

Designed by Tarrant in the 1920's, Wentworth is home to numerous celebrities, successful business tycoons and even royalty who all value their privacy. The 700 hectare estate enjoys 24 hour security with private roads and many of the homes have considered landscaping to ensure maximum privacy as well as some of the most advanced security systems. The range of onsite leisure facilities, 'village' feel and attractive parade of local shops on hand also makes the Wentworth Estate and practical as well as desirable place to live.

Being only 20 miles from London with direct train line access, only a few miles from Heathrow international airport and with the highly regarded TASIS American School just minutes away in Egham, I can fully understand how the Pitt-Jolie family would find living on Wentworth very convenient."

For details of other property for sale in Virginia Water, please contact Barton Wyatt.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury golf villas in Florida and select Property for sale in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Welcome to Wentworthski: Multimillion pound family home on exclusive Surrey estate sparks Russian bidding war

One of the most desirable homes on the exclusive Wentworth Estate in the heart of Surrey sparked a Russian bidding war this weekend reports the appointed agent, Barton Wyatt.

September House, the luxurious detached property from established developers, Millgate Homes, enjoyed a flurry of interest from a number of international buyers in recent weeks but it was two Russian families who eventually went head to head to secure the sale.

After fierce negotiating the lucky winner transferred the deposit for this £6,250,000 family home in record time and is set to move in within the month.

Commenting on the successful sale, James Wyatt, Partner of the award winning agency, Barton Wyatt, says:
“It is sales such as September House that make estate agency really exciting. In my 25 years in this industry, I have never seen such strong competition for a property. Both parties fell in love with the 10,000 sq ft new house but in the end, as it often does, money talks and the lucky buyer secured the deposit first.

“The indoor swimming pool was a big hit in this house, not to mention that the property had been dressed by well known interior designers, Alexander James Interiors who worked with Millgate Homes to create a perfect blend of luxury and sophistication.”

September House’s new owners will not be the only Russian residents in the area. This corner of leafy Surrey has become a hotspot for Russian families attracted to the open green spaces, easy commute to London, large detached new homes complete with high tech security features.

James Wyatt continues, ‘I wouldn’t go so far as to say that this area has turned into ‘Wentworthski’ but I can certainly see why international buyers, including Russians, are buying in and around Wentworth in ever increasing numbers. Be it their primary family home or a country retreat, the estate offers some truly special homes.”

For more information on the Russian demand for property in Surrey contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 834000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury golf villas in Florida and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Happy Valentines

Pine Acre with its very own Massage parlour on the lower ground floor, this property certainly sounds like it'll be fun for 2!

Pine Acre extends to just less than 9,000 square feet. The well proportioned and spacious accommodation is laid out to suit a contemporary lifestyle with the principal reception rooms leading off the very spacious entrance hall. The large kitchen / breakfast / family room leads to a stunning garden room with an impressive vaulted ceiling with thermostatically operated roof lantern.

On the first floor there are four bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. A particularly impressive master suite stretches across the rear of the property with fabulous dressing room and balcony overlooking the mature landscaped gardens.

The second floor includes a further bedroom suite and open plan games room, separate bathroom and gym. Approached from the rear entrance is a one bedroom staff apartment with lounge, bathroom and kitchenette.

Pine Acre priced at £4,975,000

Heather Ridge - This house boasts a master suite complete with four poster bed with a mirrored ceiling - naughty but nice!

Master suite with balcony, 5 further bedroom suites over 2 floors, second floor exercise/storage room, galleried reception hall, two cloakrooms, wine store, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/family/breakfast room, study/library, study, utility room, garaging for 3 cars with a well appointed staff flat over, south facing landscaped gardens overlooking the 17th fairway and green of the championship west course.

Heather Ridge priced at £6,750,000

Birdsong - just the name alone sounds romantic. The house comprises: master bedroom suite, 3 further bedroom suites, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom, entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, family room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, garage with room over, gardens

The master bedroom has a fabulous Juliet balcony opening onto the stunning landscaped gardens, perfect for your Romeo to woo you.

Birdsong priced at £2,150,000

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury property for sale in Virginia Water. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000

Wentworth course chief Kennedy retiring

Article provided by Barton Wyatt Estate Agents Virginia Water

Wentworth Club has announced that Chris Kennedy, Golf Courses Manager, will be retiring from his position after 22 years exemplary service. Kennedy, who joined the Club back in February 1990, will continue to work until 29th June 2012 and be responsible for his final BMW PGA Championship in May.


When Kennedy retires he will have managed the course presentation at Wentworth for a staggering 52 European Tour events.

Julian Small, Chief Executive of Wentworth Club commented:  “We wish Chris the very best in his retirement. He has been an exceptional member of the team here and overseen significant development of all our golf courses. I don’t think there is a Golf Course Manager in the world that can match Chris’s record in preparing golf courses for professional tournaments.”

Kennedy’s successor, Kenny Mackay will join Wentworth on 30th April 2012.  Currently Director of Golf Courses and Grounds at The Belfry since 2005, Kenny has gained a wealth of experience in golf course management and professional golf tournament preparation over the last 18 years, forging an enviable Curriculum Vitae including previous roles at The London Golf Club, Hanbury Manor and The Forest of Arden. He is also a Past Chairman of BIGGA (British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association) and a Category One golfer.

Mackay said: “I am very excited about this new challenge and realise that I am joining a world class venue with a superb tournament history.  I look forward to the professional challenges that come with the events along with meeting and getting to know the members.
“Chris Kennedy has achieved much here over the years; and now looking forward, I feel excited for all that lies ahead for me at Wentworth Club.”
Chris Kennedy said of his time at the Club: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have been Golf Courses Manager for the last 22 years at Wentworth Club.

“I would like to thank both Elliott Bernerd and Richard Caring, the two owners of the Club during my time here, for giving myself and the team the chance to be involved in all the course changes over the years.
“Wentworth is a special golfing venue with three wonderful courses, all different. Working with the Tour for the BMW PGA Championship is always the highlight of the year and all the boys have worked very hard over the years to help make the event so great.

“I would like to welcome Kenny Mackay to the Club as my replacement and working with him during our handover period. I know he will do a great job. Finally after fifty years in the golf industry, Jill and I are going home to Scotland to play some golf and spend time with our families.”

Barton Wyatt provides properties in Virginia Water and Wentworth Estate, Surrey.

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Barton Wyatt provide luxury golf villas in Florida and select Property in Sunningdale. James Wyatt MNAEA, MARLA, TRC, REALTOR ® is a partner at Barton Wyatt Letting Agents Surrey. Tel: 01344 843000