Posted 23 February 2021 by
Keith OsborneStepping onto the property ladder as a single homebuyer can sometimes prove a challenge, but Jordan and Rachel have successfully purchased their own first homes in Ashbourne and Nuneaton.
Jordan Rice is a 26-years-old graduate training to be an accountant. He has begun his journey as a homeowner at David Wilson Homes’ Doveridge Park in Derbyshire.
He said: “I was nervous because I was making the move on my own and wasn’t quite sure what to do in certain respects, but the team at David Wilson Homes looked after me as best they could to ensure I was comfortable before I moved in.
“I’m not too far away from my family home, but I wanted to take the first step on the property ladder and start my life in my own way. I purchased a first-floor maisonette, which appealed to me because it was within my budget and suited me being on my own. I didn’t need a large house to start with and I can work my way up over the years.”
Having purchased a one-bedroom ‘Beardmore’ style property, Jordan has found a property that offered a practical layout, ticked all the boxes in his search and was available with Help to Buy.
He added: “The space I have is my favourite part about coming home. With the current situation, I feel having space at the minute is quite important and I’m able separate myself from work when I am finished for the day.
“Help to Buy was the main selling point for me as it brought my mortgage in line with what was allowed. That, and the fact there is no extra work needed with a new build property. It’s nice to not be concerned with whether the boiler is going to need replacing, for example.”
Doveridge Park
Despite working from home, Jordan has taken comfort in knowing he has a range of shops and amenities such as a post office on the doorstep when required. There’s also a traditional pub just a stone’s throw away, for when lockdown restrictions ease.
Jordan continued: “I’m roughly the same distance from work as I was previously, which is handy. The local area is fantastic with great and easy links that enable you to either walk, cycle or drive into Uttoxeter.
“I’ve not met many people in the community having only moved into my home in January, but my neighbours are very friendly. Those I’ve met have been lovely and stopped for a quick chat.”
Doveridge Park has just two properties remaining, starting at £194,995, before the development is completely sold out. Find out more from David Wilson Homes.
Rachel Pritchett is 28 and a primary school teacher in Leicestershire and has also used Help to Buy to purchase her first home at The Long Shoot from Barratt Homes is Nuneaton.
She already had two friends living at the development and after purchasing her two bedroom property, convinced a third friend to secure the same ‘Kenley’ style home to move onto the next street.
Rachel said: “I was living with my parents previously so I was able to save up for five to six years for my first home. Although saving for my own independence did mean I couldn’t buy as many clothes!
“The Long Shoot was my favourite of the new build developments close to home but it was the offers available at the time that made my decision easier. There was a mortgage subsidy, but I was also able to buy my home with a £99 reservation fee with flooring included, so it felt like a really personalised experience.”
Whilst Rachel made the most of the ‘Kenley’ style home as a solo purchaser, the property is tailor-made for young couples and also downsizers, with a generous yet practical layout.
Rachel added: “It’s an ideal size for a single homebuyer. The living room and the open-plan kitchen are two really nice spaces to enjoy separately, and I’ve made the most of the French doors leading to the garden, which has been a godsend during lockdown. There’s plenty of storage upstairs and downstairs and the private driveway is an added benefit.
“I’ve been working from home recently but when I do go out, it’s lovely to return to my own house and pull onto the driveway. There’s just a really nice curb appeal.”
Having grown up in Nuneaton, Rachel knows the area really well and makes the most of The Long Shoot’s location. She’s enjoyed having a Co-op and shopping complex just a stone’s throw away, in addition to a nearby farmer’s shop which sells fresh produce and also hosts pumpkin picking.
Rachel added: “They’re quite well hidden but behind the development are some great riverside walks and rural views which are only a minute away on foot.”
Now over 80% sold, The Long Shoot is an established community and has now entered the latter stages of its progression. Prices start at £207,995. Find out more from Barratt Homes.
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