Neighbourliness Can Increase Property Values

A strong community around a property can result in higher house values, lower anxiety over crime and trust in others*, according to a leading social research institution. Some developers have recognised this and companies such as restoration specialist City & Country Group, have consistently placed a high value on creating homes which have strong communities.

At Old Saint Michaels, City & Country Group’s historic hospital conversion in Braintree, the new residents were invited to meet each other in a social evening organised by the company, where they could start to form the new community there.  

Helen Moore, Head of Sales and Marketing at City & Country Group, comments: “We all keep hearing about how community spirit is dwindling across the UK, so we are keen to play our part in reversing this trend. The properties at Old Saint Michaels are located around landscaped communal courtyards, which are designed to encourage community interaction, and by encouraging our residents to get to know each other, we hope to create a more harmonious living environment so they can benefit from the positive affects that a strong community can bring.

Susie Harrold, originally from Great Yeldam lives with her husband Grant and they run a family business a short walk away from Old Saint Michaels. Susie comments: “The evening was a good opportunity to meet some of my new neighbours and catch up with those I have already met. Old Saint Michaels has such a pleasant environment and whenever the residents see one another we often get chatting. I love the diverse mix of age and personalities here. Everyone gets on very well and they really are a great bunch of people.”

Old Saint Michaels has been completely restored to create a collection of stunning residential apartments, mews houses and commercial properties. All the properties are finished to an extremely high standard, the kitchens are bespoke and include a range of integrated stainless steel appliances. The bathrooms incorporate white sanitaryware and chrome fittings.  Top quality flooring has been provided throughout including 100% wool carpets, ceramic floor tiles and either feature restored original floorboards or engineered oak boards.

The former Victorian workhouse is a striking conversion which is set around beautifully landscaped courtyard gardens. Old Saint Michaels is located on Rayne Road, near Braintree town centre and railway station. Trains from Braintree station to London Liverpool Street run regularly and take just over an hour. **

Prices for apartments at the development start from £118,500 for a one bedroom, £172,500 for a two bedroom and £265,000 for a three bedroom. One bedroom houses start from £135,000 and two bedroom houses start from £199,500. For further information, please contact the City & Country Group sales suite which is open daily from 10am to 5pm on telephone: 01376 335 800, or visit: www.oldsaintmichaels.co.uk