Most tenancies start as Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) on a fixed term, for instance, six months or a year, writes, Paula Wells, Letting Team Manager.

At the end of the fixed term, if the landlord doesn’t renew the tenancy agreement or issue a formal notice to end the tenancy at the end of the fixed term, the tenant is entitled to continue living in the property while paying rent. If the landlord continues to accept this rent; a “periodic contractual tenancy” will arise.

A periodic tenancy or ‘rolling contract’ is an agreement that rolls over on a periodic basis, usually monthly, until either the tenant or landlord terminates the agreement.

The terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement (AST) remain the same, except for the period of the tenancy. The tenancy agreement will continue to roll month to month until either the tenant or landlord terminates the agreement – under the terms of the AST, which will state the notice to terminate that either party should give. 

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The cost of living is putting pressure on many. Here Balfours Lettings Team Manager, Paula Wells, advises that there is help and offers information to landlords and tenants. 

Whether renting a property directly from a landlord or via a letting agent, tenants might be able to get help with the costs of renting. These can help with a tenancy deposit, ongoing rent payments, or household bills.

For those with a low income and savings of less than £16,000 can usually claim Universal Credit to help with living costs. However, where a partner also resides in the property, a joint claim for Universal Credit must be made.

Even those who are self-employed and on a low income are entitled to Universal Credit. Help towards rent can be paid as part of a monthly Universal Credit payment. This is also called a ‘housing payment’.

Those already on Universal Credit can apply for housing payments via their online account. If a tenant has fallen behind on the rent, they can have their housing payment sent directly to the landlord. The aim is to stop tenants falling further into rent arrears. This is called an ‘alternative payment arrangement’ (APA).

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A quintessential stone cottage, picture perfect and overlooking magnificent views in its surrounding and much revered Corvedale countryside is on the market with a guide price of £300,000.

Yew Tree Cottage offers great prospects for the new owners to put their own stamp internally, and with potential extension subject to planning. It is located within the hamlet of Bouldon, nine miles from the medieval market town of Ludlow, while local amenities are to be found at Ditton Priors six miles away.

The cottage currently provides a reception hall, sitting room, kitchen, utility wc and ground floor shower room, while the first floor offers one bedroom and a large adjacent landing.  Scott Kemsley, Balfours partner and Ludlow sales manager comments: “Yew Tree Cottage has a very large garden, plus off-road parking and outbuilding. These are assets which would make the cottage ideal for major refurbishment and extension, subject to the necessary planning.

“While its location is in an idyllic setting, perfect for outdoor pursuits and with excellent walking, there are also a selection of first class independent and state schools within commuting distance. In short for those seeking a rural lifestyle, Yew Tree Cottage, is a fabulous opportunity,” he adds. For more information call Balfours on 01584 707100.

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Issued by and more information from Joy Fox Pr 07841 763 530

A three-bedroom new build, with energy efficient credentials, in the heart of residential Shrewsbury and within walking distance of the town centre.

Number 12, Eardley Close, found in the former Copthorne Barracks grounds, has been launched to the market by Balfours with a guide price of £385,000. The double fronted family home comes with exceptional energy efficiency, ticking boxes for both running costs and the planet.

The hallway leads off to a lounge with glazing to two aspects, including French doors to the garden at the rear. Across the hall the kitchen diner is also with French doors to the terrace; the room features a built-in fridge/freezer, dishwasher oven and hob. Off the kitchen is the utility which also has an external door.

The ground floor is complete with cloakroom accessed from the hallway, as is the staircase. Three bedrooms include a master with en-suite and bedroom two with closet. Bedrooms two and three share the family bathroom.

Alistair Hilton, head of sales at Balfours comments: “Number 12 was upgraded with a side door to the single garage. Also tiles, towel rails and hob are bespoke to the property. Its Energy Performance Certificate rating of ‘B’ is another plus point.”

Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, to the front there is a small lawned area and driveway to single garage with electric up and over door and wiring in place for an electric car charging point. The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with paved path. For more information call 01743 353511.

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Issued by and more information from Joy Fox Pr 07841 763 530

“Clunton and Clunbury, Clungunford and Clun, Are the quietest places Under the sun,” so says renowned poet, A. E. Houseman. Surrounded by just such idyllic countryside, The Mill at Clunton sits within its landscape with ease. On the market with Balfours it is a unique lifestyle and, or business development opportunity.

The holding extends nearly 10 hectares/24 acres and comprises a Grade II listed Mill and cottage in need of re-development: A courtyard of traditional buildings and two large workshops. With almost limitless potential, as a lifestyle smallholding, equestrian to workplace, tourism project incorporating annexe/holiday lets and auxiliary accommodation. It comes with lapsed planning permission.

Clunton, as identified by Houseman, remains one of those special South Shropshire villages where there is a church, village hall and The Crown Inn public house. Two and a half miles down the road the market town of Clun has a range of amenities, including primary school, doctors’ surgery, cafes and independent shops.

The county towns of Shrewsbury and Hereford are 28 and 32 miles respectively, while Church Stretton and Ludlow are 15 miles, all offering a diverse choice of services, shops, restaurants and culture.

Scott Kemsley, Balfours partner and Ludlow sales manager, comments: “The property would suit a lifestyle purchaser who wishes to develop their own dream property either as a smallholding, multi-generational living or as a home generating a rental yield; alternatively, a property developer.

“This is a rare find in the most unique location, even boasting river frontage with fishing rights along the bank of the River Clun. Nothing could better reflect Houseman’s words than The Mill at Clunton: ‘In valleys of springs of rivers, By Ony and Teme and Clun, The country for easy livers, The quietest under the sun,’” Scott reflects.

Balfours are marketing The Mill with a guide price of £750,000. For more information call 01584 707100.

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Issued by and more information from Joy Fox Pr 07841 763 530.

A town house bolthole with off road parking in a private gated development in the heart of Ludlow has been launched to the market by Balfours.

Number One Berrington Court is one of four residential houses within the grounds. The ground floor comprises entrance hall, utility room, bedroom and family shower room. The first floor provides a kitchen diner and large living room and with glazing to two aspects, including a Juliet balcony offering views across the town walls to the hills.

Ascending to the second floor a large double bedroom with dressing area and shower room offers a luxurious feel; the whole having originally been two bedrooms, which could easily be reinstated.

Scott Kemsley, Balfours partner and Ludlow sales manager comments: “This is a fresh contemporary and very well presented home. It is situated in one of Ludlow’s finest residential areas, Bell Lane offers total convenience to the town centre, while being tucked off the beaten track.

“The medieval town has a vibrant cultural community, yet the fabulous South Shropshire countryside, plus Golf and National Hunt racecourses are five minutes’ drive away. And of course, for those who want or need to be away regularly rail travel puts London some three hours away and it is an ideal lock-up and go home too,” Scott adds.

Balfours are marketing Number One Berrington Court with a guide price of £465,000. For more information call 01584 707100.

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