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A Guide to Creating the Perfect at Home Office Space

With the boundaries between the workplace and home life continuing to blur, now more than ever people are making the most of ‘working from home’.

For many, this means plenty of positives including no commuting, a lower carbon footprint, increased productivity and, often most importantly, the opportunity to enjoy personal space.

As a bustling community and the first large development in Scotland to secure fibre broadband to home, Chapelton is equipped to support its residents who want to shift their work-life balance and spend more time at home.

Here, we provide our top tips on how to create the perfect at home office space.

Identify an unused area

The first step in creating an ideal at home office is finding the perfect space. An office doesn’t need to be large and can be a spare room, the corner of a bedroom or living room or an unused nook.

Think about where you feel comfortable but also be conscious of setting boundaries. Without a commute give consideration to establishing boundaries so that others in the house know not to interrupt you but also so that when you’re done for the day you can close the door and leave work behind.

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Make the most of small spaces

For those that don’t have an entire room dedicated to an office, it’s important to think about how to make the most of even the smallest of spaces.

Console tables can function as a working place but are often smaller than traditional bulky desks, whilst wall shelves can provide storage solutions for files, books and technology.

Experiment with ambience

Aspects such as lighting, heat and sound can all have an impact on productivity levels. Experiment with different lighting including dimmed lamps and candles, music to set the tone and temperature.

Background music, which can be as loud or a soft as you like, is proven to deliver clear work benefits including improved accuracy and an increase in productivity as well as relaxation.

Tame clutter

Nothing makes a home office look and feel more cluttered than wires hanging from desks or paperwork scattered across the room. Invest in storage solutions and cable tidies to create a minimalist environment which will not only look great but also decrease stress levels.

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Create a routine

One of the negatives of working from home can often be lack of routine. Without surrounding colleagues it can be easy to forget time passing by and the importance of coming up for air and taking regular breaks. By incorporating the below tips you’ll be far more productive for longer:

  • Avoid sitting on sofas and instead use desk space
  • Stock up on office supplies to avoid wasting time finding what you need day-to-day
  • Plan your working day accordingly, including creating to do lists and scheduling breaks
  • Turn off the television and remove anything that will cause distractions
  • Take regular breaks, whether it be for lunch, a short walk or a cup of tea
  • Set yourself an end of day time to prevent temptation to work into the evening

FOODIE QUINE’S EASTER FUDGE

As one of Scotland’s leading food and drink bloggers, a resident of
Newtonhill and a regular visitor to Chapelton, Claire Jessiman (aka Foodie Quine) is a familiar face to many.

Sharing her passion for great Scottish produce, local restaurants and cafes and inventive recipes, Claire’s blog www.foodiequine.co.uk is the place to find great inspiration for eating out or dining in. Here, Claire shares one of her latest recipes – Easter fudge.

More of Claire’s favourite recipes and cooking tips can be found at www.foodiequine.co.uk or on the Chapelton blog.

Recipe_1-1024x768 FOODIE QUINE'S EASTER FUDGE

With only two ingredients, no tricky temperatures or boiling hot sugar required, this microwave Easter Fudge is quick and easy to make. Once you’ve mastered it you can adapt the toppings to suit the occasion and personal preference. You can make it with white, milk or dark chocolate. I use supermarket own brand which works just fine. More expensive chocolate may be even better, I just haven’t tried it! You can also make it in a bowl over boiling water if you don’t have a microwave.

Ingredients
• 500g White Chocolate
• 1 x 397g tin Condensed Milk
• Suggested toppings – mini eggs, gummy fried eggs, Easter sprinkles

  1. Line a traybake tin (aprox 34cm x 20 cm) with baking paper.
  2. Break up the chocolate and put in a microwavable bowl
    along with the condensed milk. Microwave in a series of 30
    second bursts.
  3. Remove, stir and check each time until it the chocolate has
    melted. Beat well with a wooden spoon until smooth.
    At this point you need to work quickl    y
  4. Tip the fudge into the prepared tin and spread it with
    a palette knife into a smooth and even layer. Push your
    selection of Easter toppings into the fudge.
  5. Place the tray of fudge in the fridge to set for at least four
    hours (or ideally overnight).
  6. Once hard cut into chunks with a large knife.

A first time buyers guide to getting on the property ladder

Buying your first home can often seem a daunting process, especially when there is so much to consider including location, home options, legal fees and processes.

Here to help Chapelton first time buyers get their foot onto the property ladder, award-winning fee free mortgage advice organisation First Mortgage has answered the most commonly asked questions.

With branches in Aberdeen, First Mortgage provides prospective home owners with a dedicated mortgage advice team who are with customers every step of the way until they’ve secured their dream home. From calculating exactly how much can be borrowed and the total cost of the move, to talking through everything that’s involved in buying a home, First Mortgage can help anyone find and secure their first home.

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What are the steps to buying your first home?

Buying your first property may seem complicated but with a few simple steps it’s much easier than many think.

In the first meetings we ensure that all of our customers have an understanding of how much they can borrow, what their mortgage will cost them every month and what deposit is required.

From there we then look at additional costs such as the cost to move from a rented property, how much money must be budgeted for LBTT and associated monthly costs.

We’ll also talk our customers through the range of purchasing assistance schemes available, recommended solicitors and different mortgage products including those for new build homes to ensure that the buyer has the full picture on what is involved in the house buying process.

What assistance schemes are available?

There are many schemes available for first time buyers such as the Scottish Government’s Help to Buy, shared ownership and LIFT. Our local advisors are able to find the right assistance scheme for you, your circumstances and budget.

How does the Help to Buy scheme operate?

The Scottish Government’s Help to Buy Scotland is a scheme available for first time buyers purchasing a new build property from a participating housebuilder.

The purchase price threshold is £200,000 with a minimum 5% deposit from the buyer and a 15% contribution from the Scottish Government. 

What other considerations need to be taken into account other than salary?

The service we provide at First Mortgage is to not only allow first time buyers to purchase their first property as quickly as possible within budget but also to safeguard their lifestyle.

Factors such as average holiday expenditure, food and drink costs including eating out, entertainment, socialising and other commitments all play a part in the overall manageable budget.

To find out about the homes on offer for first time buyers in Chapelton, visit here.

Guide to Relaxation

There’s nothing more important than treating yourself to some ‘me time’ every now and again. Whether you’ve had a hectic week at work, your social life is pulling you in all directions or you’ve been looking after the kids and are in need of some quiet time, it’s essential that you find a few moments to relax and unwind.

We have teamed up with Kelly Daun at popular Chapelton beauty salon The Lounge, to bring you a guide to relaxation at home.

So, next time you feel the daily grind getting to you, put this simple relaxation guide to use and spend some well-deserved time pampering yourself.

Create a Calm Environment

The first step in having the perfect pamper night is to create a relaxing environment that can be your own private little sanctuary while you unwind.

Start by adjusting the lighting. Draw the blinds and turn off any strong artificial lights, opting for soft lamps or fairy lights instead. Candles are a great way to light a room and if you choose a relaxing scent like the ELEMIS Life ELIXIRS sleep scented candle, you will be ready to drift off.

Treat Yourself

The point of a pamper evening is to go out of your way to do something extra for yourself.

That could be soaking in a bath while reading your favourite book or giving yourself a manicure or pedicure.

Spending some extra time giving yourself a facial is a great way to have you feeling and looking fantastic. The Lounge have a range of luxury ELEMIS skincare products available to buy that can be used at home to give yourself a full relaxing facial. 

Alternatively, whip up a home facemask using a quarter of an avocado, a tablespoon of cocoa powder and a tablespoon of honey. Mix all of the ingredients in a bowl, apply to clean, dry skin and leave on for ten minutes before washing off with warm water and then moisturising as per usual.

Whatever it is that will make you feel your best, do something extra special to treat yourself. 

Get Cosy

Get into something comfy like your favourite pyjamas or loungewear and wrap up in your dressing gown.

Once you’re dressed for the occasion, settle down in a cosy corner that has plenty of comfy cushions and soft blankets that you can nestle in while you watch a light-hearted film or programme.

Make a Pot of Tea

It’s true that there’s very little a cup of tea can’t fix so pop the kettle on and make a pot of warm tea to enjoy.

Choosing a calming tea like camomile or peppermint is a great way to relax your body and mind so you can relax for the evening and enjoy a good night’s sleep when it comes. 

Put Down Your Phone

This one can be tricky for some but putting your phone away is a great way to help you feel less stressed.

We can all find ourselves going down a social media rabbit hole, scrolling mindlessly for hours and feeling quite negative after looking at so many other perfectly curated lives on Instagram or Facebook.

Ignoring social media, noisy group chats or work emails will allow you to concentrate all your energy into giving yourself some self-love.

First time buyers guide: Homes for sale in Chapelton

Ten years ago, the average first time buyer could be characterised as someone in their twenties looking for a small flat in town close to local amenities, restaurants and busy bars and clubs to spend evenings and weekends. With the age of first time buyers now rising to those in their early to mid-thirties, the features attracting them to a property has changed slightly too.

Here in Chapelton, we have a number of beautiful homes perfect for every type of first time buyer.

From new build homes available for young professionals to new families, take a look below at the best houses for sale for first time buyers in Chapelton.

First time homes for young professionals

As first time buyers, young professionals often want to find a property with plenty of space that still remains an easy commute to work. Situated just five miles south of Aberdeen, Chapelton is the perfect commuter hotspot, for those who want some distance from busy city life while still remaining just a short drive to work.

The Keithlock, a stunning two bedroom apartment from popular Chapelton housebuilder ZeroC has two generous bedrooms, an open plan kitchen, living space and access to a lovely private garden area. Priced from £176,000, the Keithlock is available under the Scottish Government’s Help to Buy scheme, meaning it can be purchased by first time buyers with just a five percent deposit. 

ZeroC-drawing-1-1024x684 First time buyers guide: Homes for sale in Chapelton

First time homes for country dwellers

For the first time buyers who like the idea of a quaint property with a countryside feel, housebuilder Stephen has a number of homes available, like the cosy Ardwall cottage. Priced from £230,000 this property boasts two spacious bedrooms an open plan kitchen and dining area with separate lounge and looking out onto an attractive courtyard.

Perfect for country dwellers who are looking to take advantage of Chapelton’s idyllic, countryside location, the Ardwall comes with an attractive first time buyers package that includes free flooring, a 5% deposit and £1000 towards legal fees.

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picture by fraser band 07984 163 256 fraserband.co.uk Stephen Homes – Chapelton Development, Aberdeenshire.

First time homes for families

One of the many considerations when starting a family is ensuring the best environment for enhancing family life. Child friendly neighbourhoods with plenty of activities to keep the little ones occupied, safe roads and areas and an abundance of green space make a family-friendly location to give parents peace of mind.

The Findon offered by housebuilder AJC is a sizable and attractive two-bed home perfect for families starting out. With two well-proportioned bedrooms, a fully integrated kitchen and plenty of living space, the Findon starts from £222,000 and is available with some fantastic incentives including a 5% deposit paid, free flooring and a furniture package from John Lewis.

ChapeltonofElsick_AJCHomes_NHastiePhoto_07.18-5 First time buyers guide: Homes for sale in Chapelton

Many families have already set up their lives in Chapelton, with a wide range of things to do in the community including a calendar of activities catered towards children from family fun days, to organised walks and scavenger hunts. Large, open spaces and parks give children the freedom to enjoy the outdoors and lead the traditional, simple way of life.

With the aim of encouraging a more sustainable lifestyle, Chapelton has been specially designed with all local amenities within walking distance, reducing the number of vehicles on the roads and making public spaces safer for children. An in-town nursery school adds to the place making of the town and the number of facilities for families in the area.

First time buyers have the opportunity to take advantage of a number of incentives at Chapelton, affordably and easily purchasing their dream home. With a number of plots available for the Keithlock, Ardwall and Findon properties, the town has something for all budgets and preferences.

Haggis Lasagne with Bannerman Butcher

It’s Burns night this month, a night celebrating Scotland’s national treasure, Robert Burns. After the success of their delicious hanger steak recipe back in summer, we’ve teamed up with Bannerman Butcher again to bring you a haggis dish with a twist, perfect if you’re having friends round to celebrate Burns Night.

This delicious haggis lasagne recipe is simple and comforting, putting a Scottish twist on an Italian classic. Best served with a Burns’ poems and a nip of your choice. 

You Will Need

For the Filling

  • One packet of steak mince plus enough water to cover the mince once browned
  • Gravy mix sachet of your choice
  • Bannerman homemade haggis mix
  • One large turnip cut into chunks  
  • 1.8kg potatoes cut into chunks

For the White Sauce

  • 50g butter
  • 50g plain flour
  • Whisky of your choice

Extras

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sprinkle of cheese for the top
  • Sprinkle of parsley

Recipe

  1. Preheat your oven to 180C fan.
  2. In a large pan start by browning the mince, once browned add enough water to cover. Season and bring to the boil.
  3. Once the steak mince is cooked, stir in gravy mix to thicken then crumble in Bannerman homemade haggis. Give a good stir and set to the side.
  4. Par boil turnip and the potatoes in salted water then drain and set to the side.
  5. Melt the butter in a pan and add in flour, stirring to make a roux. Once you have formed the roux stir in whisky of your choice to create a white sauce.
  6. In an oblong baking dish, layer the haggis mince mix, turnip, potatoes and lasagne sheet. Cover in the whiskey sauce and then repeat.
  7. Sprinkle a little cheese on top and cook in the oven for 25 minutes.
  8. Cut into large slices and sprinkle with parsley

This recipe is great for having guests round for a Scottish celebration but doesn’t have to be just for burns night. Enjoy this warming dish on a cold night when comfort food is needed to warm you up.

Chapelton Retirement Communities

Take a look around Brio Retirement homes

The Brio retirement living showhomes give a great flavour of the retirement properties on offer in Chapelton’s first retirement community.

Within its vibrant community of friends and neighbours, Chapelton offers a range of retirement homes within the scenic area of Aberdeenshire. Just a short 5 miles outside Aberdeen, our retirement communities have access to local amenities such as a lively tearoom, a visitor centre, community hall, a beauty and hair salon as well as allotments and parks to enjoy.

The Macalpin one bedroom retirement home and the Campbell and Fraser one and two bedroom cottages are bright, spacious and designed to the highest standard.

Take a look at the images and videos below which provide a virtual snapshot of life in Chapelton.

If you would like to visit any of the retirement showhomes in person, please contact the Brio Retirement Living sales team on 01224 543505.

The Macalpin

The Macalpin one bedroom retirement home has been tastefully designed, complementing the town’s unique surroundings while providing all the features for modern living.

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Campbell

The Campbell, an exclusive cottage in Chapelton’s Landale Court community is a cosy cottage with character. The single story property is beautifully finished with plenty of light and storage.

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Campbell-1024x683 Chapelton Retirement Communities

Fraser

The two-bedroom Fraser cottage, also in Chapelton’s Landale Court community, is perfect for downsizers with spacious bedrooms, a fully fitted kitchen and Porcelanosa bathroom.

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2019 Is a Year Full of Opportunity for Chapelton

As we start a fresh in 2019, the promise of a New Year brings a number of exciting things to Chapelton.

With reports of the property market recovering, a wave of new behavioural trends among homebuyers and a host of events due to arrive in the town, 2019 is set to be a year full of opportunities for Chapelton.

We spoke to the housebuilders in Chapelton to get an idea of what we can look forward to in the next 12 months.

A Recovering Market

Last year in a report on the property market in Aberdeen, Aberdein Considine suggested the initial signs of slight recovery in the housing market after a turbulent period, with investors across the region once again considering purchasing in the Silver City and its surroundings.

In recent State of the City and Annual Review presentations, which gave various professional views and predictions for the market, it was noted that house prices in both Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have been broadly flat, suggesting a ‘bottoming out’ in comparison to the previous years of decline.

Based on the sales figures in Chapelton from the latter point of 2018, our three housebuilders- AJC, Stephen, and ZeroC- are beginning to see an improvement in the market, something that was echoed in Savills Aberdeen and North East Property Winter Market Report, which referenced both an increase in market activity in the second half of 2018 and consistently stable house prices in recent months.

An Attractive Lifestyle

A new year always welcomes new trends in the property market, with different groups of buyers moving to new locations for varying reasons.

Chapelton housebuilder Stephen, a Perth-based company, envisages that living styles will be a strong factor in what attracts people to buying a property in the New Year. Tom Buchanan, Marketing Manager at Stephen, commented: “Increasingly, people are looking for homes that provide more than just a place to stay. They want great local amenities and a lifestyle that offers plenty to see and do.

“People are becoming more aware of health and well-being so for many, they want access to walks and nature giving them a chance to get some fresh air and breathing space.”

Something for Everyone

In the last couple of years, there has been huge demand across the UK for higher-quality homes that better meet the needs and aspirations of retirees, something that is likely to continue into 2019.

Helping to bring more high-quality housing options to the retirement community, Brio Retirement Living is set to open its first retirement community in Chapelton in the spring, delivering a mixture of 94 one and two-bedroom properties at its Landale Court community.

Speaking of the new homes being delivered in Chapelton in 2019, Sally Greenaway, Head of Marketing and Sales at Brio Retirement Living, said: “As well as fantastic, purpose built housing complete with the latest innovative technology, Landale Court will have a whole host of facilities and amenities that will give homeowners everything they need to keep healthy and active.

“Providing homes that have everything homeowners require, as well as places to socialise and keep fit is hugely important to us. We look forward to welcoming new homeowners to Landale Court this spring.”

Additional Homes

In order to meet the demand for homes in the area, experienced property developer ZeroC will be delivering additional three and four bedroom detached homes on Rothesay Street, thanks to newly granted planning permission.

Commenting on the demand for quality housing, Alastair Struthers, Development and Sales Manager at ZeroC, said: “2019 is likely to be an exciting year for ZeroC in Chapelton. As the demand for homes in the town remains steady, we will continue to meet this with a selection of high quality new homes that are both energy efficient and well connected. We’re sure that this will bring a variety of new residents to the town.”

More than Prospective Buyers

It’s not just those looking to purchase property who should be interested in Chapelton in 2019.

A full programme of family fun events and activities being rolled out in coming months has something for the town’s existing residents, as well as those in the neighbouring areas.

With the annual charity bike ride and 10K now in the diary for 2019, as well as a series of new and exciting events taking place, the New Year is sure to see the town continue to grow and the community strengthen.

Christmas In Chapelton

Christmas has officially arrived in Chapelton, with the community coming together to ensure this year is the town’s best Christmas yet!

Festivities kicked off at the start of December with the Christmas light switch on followed by Chapelton’s very first Christmas fair. Held at Nether Cairnhill Steading, the Christmas fair gave residents a chance to enjoy mince pies and festive drinks while browsing a selection of locally made crafts and gifts. The event raised over £800 for Pillar Kincardine, a charity dedicated to promoting positive mental health.

Newtonhill Primary School has also joined the Chapelton community in getting ready for the holidays with trees in Hume Square decorated by the pupils with a 12 Days of Christmas theme, whilst local knitting group the Woolie Mamas have put their skills to work knitting a cosy decorative hat for the town’s telephone box.

A huge thank you to all who came along to welcome in the festive season. Take a look at some of the pictures from the event:

Meet the Team: Karen McDonald  

As a Sales Adviser with Perth-based housebuilder Stephen, Karen is a welcoming face for buyers considering a move to Chapelton as well as current residents. Here, Karen tells us more about her work within the town.

Tells us what your role in Chapelton involves?

My role is very much about supporting those moving to Chapelton and those living in the town. This can range from introducing potential buyers to the concept of the community and offering advice on housetypes, to settling newcomers and helping with any questions about their property.

What feedback do you receive from buyers when discussing Chapelton?

People are really intrigued by Chapelton and when they get here they love it. Many feel that it’s a traditional seaside town but with all the modern features needed for everyday life. They like the unique aesthetics such as the picket fences and coloured doors alongside the well-planned streets and sustainable design.

People also really enjoy being part of something – a bustling community and an exciting development with plenty of plans for the future.

Who is your typical Chapelton customer?

The range of buyers in Chapelton is very broad. We have interest from a wide mix of customers including first time buyers, new families and retired couples looking to downsize meaning that the town’s community is a great blend of people.

What is it that draws people to buying a home from Stephen?

Stephen is known for being a reputable housebuilder so our customers take peace and confidence in knowing that they are investing in a high quality product. The company is also family run so we’re popular for our personal service which ensures that we take time to get to know our customers and find out which property is best suited to them.

Which three words would you use to describe Chapelton?

Unique, integrated and impressive.

What do you like to do when not at work?

I actually live in a Stephen home so I know the properties very well. When I’m not tucked up inside or making the most of the garden I like to head out for long walks and explore the countryside.