WITH winter approaching, the Solid Fuel Association is reminding homeowners to take certain precautions.

* Remember to have your chimney swept. The National Association of Chimney Sweeps is on 0800 833 464.

* Check to see if your heating system requires a service. The Solid Fuel Association is on 0845 601 4406.

* Has your system any obvious leaks or other faults which require attention before the heating season starts?

* Are you well stocked up with the correct fuel for your fire? The Approved Coal Merchants Scheme is on 0800 600 000.

FPDSAVILLS is reminding homeowners that the way their house smells could play a significant part in the selling process.

A spokesperson said: "Just because the vendor is quite used to that distinctive wet-dog-and-drying-out-horse-rugs smell, those walking through the front door may not be. Likewise cat litter, damp, cigarettes and stale cooking smells will not endear any potential purchaser.

"Ideally, a home should be neutral on the smell front so open windows, bath the dogs, smoke outside and avoid cooking too many curries. If necessary, disguise any inherent odours by taking advantage of the well warm cliche of ground coffee, freshly baked bread and pungent flowers."

PROPERTIES at the Waterside, a PPH development comprising 29 three-storey homes on the banks of Faversham Creek, include integral office accommodation equipped with the latest technological aids.

Tony Porter, managing director of PPH, said: "Those who buy at The Waterside will be able to escape the hustle and bustle of working life in the city and work from home overlooking the developmentÕs attractive views of the Creek."

Prices start from about £250,000. Call 01732 743393 for details.

DEMAND for new homes remains strong, says housebuilder Barratt. Group chairman Frank Eaton, who recently announced record results, said: "Over the last few months our sales have been nine per cent ahead of last year. Demand for new homes is strong and is underpinned by high levels of employment and the lowest mortgage costs for 40 years."

WILCON HOMES' site managers have won 19 NHBC Pride in the Job quality awards this year, the fourth-highest total for any housebuilder and a record for the company.

The awards scheme is run by the National House-Building Council, and recognised as the premier quality initiative for the industry.