Unidentified Palm like Tree

Hi
I have recently moved into a new house the garden of which was a disaster except for what looks like a palm tree its about 12 to 14ft tall.
The trunk opens out to 4 large upright branches each of which is crowned by green sword shaped leaves which turn brown and drop off all over the place ( these leaves will stop a lawn mower dead in it's tracks if not picked up first). Currently it is covered with green branching frond which a neigbour informs us opens to white flowers.

Can anyone identify this tree from the above? I would be grateful as I would like to look up some care tips.

Many Thanks in advance

Can you post a picture? It might also help us to identify if we knew what area you are from, so we know if it is tropical, teperate, or whatever. Maybe it is a palm?

Andy