What does the service charge include and what is the annual fee?
At Burnham Waters, we take great care in designing our service charges to ensure fairness and accuracy. These charges are subject to rigorous regulations, and we adhere to these standards without compromise. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we are dedicated to complete transparency in all aspects. That's why we provide full access to service charge accounting details for all our valued residents. We believe that every resident at Burnham Waters should have a clear understanding of where their contribution is directed and how it benefits the community as a whole.
Our comprehensive service charge covers a range of essential services and amenities, including but not limited to:
- 24/7 Onsite Security
- Village CCTV
- Landscape Maintenance of the Village and Communal Grounds
- Utilities in Common Areas
- Village Lighting
- High-Speed Internet Connectivity (1Gb)
- Village Cleaning
- Subsidised Electric Cycle Scheme
- Electric Minibus Service
- Access to Electric Car Share Scheme
-Subsidised Fitness Centre Membership
Service charges are not just fees; they are an investment in maintaining the unique charm of our development. By contributing, you're not only supporting the ongoing excellence of Burnham Waters but also ensuring that your living experience remains exceptional throughout your residency. These charges play a pivotal role in sustaining the vibrancy and appeal of our community.
To maintain transparency and fairness, we've tailored the service charges to each house type. This ensures that the costs align with the services and amenities available to you. Please see the breakdown of service charges for each house type below:
- The Colne: £253.94 per month
- The Stour: £260.66 per month
- The Crouch: £282.64 per month
- The Chelmer: £286.17 per month
- The Blackwater: £297.89 per month
It's important to note that these service charges are fixed for a period of 10 years, commencing 1st November 2023, providing you with financial predictability and peace of mind.
How do I reserve a home?
To secure your chosen bungalow at Burnham Waters you can reserve a home with a small reservation fee of £2,000 which is 100% refundable for 12 weeks if you change your mind.
What is the ‘exchange of contracts’ process?
The purchasing process is the same as with any other home. We will offer you a list of local solicitors who are aware of the development which will help reduce your legal costs. However, you are welcome to use any solicitor you wish. Once your solicitor has been instructed to act on your behalf, our solicitors will then make contact to progress the purchase of your new home. When you and your solicitors are happy you pay a 10% deposit at which point contracts are exchanged. It is also at this point all of your homes customisations are finalised.
How long will it take to complete?
Completion times will vary depending on if you are purchasing a built-in turn key home or a plot at the pre-construction phase. We know how stressful this part can be and timings can be crucial especially if you are relying on the sale of your home to complete the purchase. Deferred completion dates can be offered and are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. We intend to do all we can to help you and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Do you offer part exchange?
We have not finalised our plans yet with regards part exchange but will keep you updated.
Do bungalows have garages?
None of the bungalows have garages but all have a minimum of two parking spaces per plot. The development has been designed with open space, ecology and landscaping in mind. That said, each bungalow is designed with an integrated storage area for gardening tools and a separate bike and bin store.
Can I choose my energy supplier?
When a home is sold it will come with an existing supply for energy. As with any other development or home the owners have the right to change suppliers.
Can I choose my broadband supplier?
We plan to provide all residences with 1000Mb supply which will be maintained at rates competitive to BT. (UK average stands at 22Mb currently). We are heavily investing in a state of the art fibre network throughout the site in order to incorporate many other services such as, security, assistance and care to each home.
Where will qualified medical staff be recruited?
As with all staff on site they will be sourced from within Maldon District and if this is not possible from further afield all with the requisite qualifications. Training and ongoing training will also form part of the staffing programme.
Are homes freehold or leasehold?
We have taken the issue of tenure very seriously given the poor reputation that the retirement market has endured. As such all bungalows wil be offered freehold.
My home is to be inherited by my children who are younger than 55. What will happen to their inheritance?
The development plans and legal agreements are very clear that only people of 55 and over will be able to be resident in the bungalows. Beneficiaries under 55 could not take up residence, which is why we intend to offer the possibility of a buy back scheme to cater for this eventuality. Alternately family members that inherit a home at Burnham Waters can sell to the open market.
