Shared Ownership Helps First-Time Buyers In Twigworth
A Gloucestershire couple have taken their first steps onto the property ladder at a Bromford development in Twigworth, called Twigworth Green, with the help of Shared Ownership scheme, enabling them to secure a better future for their daughter.
After previously renting in Cirencester and Gloucester, Ryan Featherstone, 34, and his fiancée Fern Goddard, 36, made the move to their first home to provide their two-year-old daughter, Darcie, with a safe and secure future, after she was diagnosed with a life-limiting condition.
Ryan, who works at City Plumbing, said: “Darcie was born with HLHS, which is a heart defect meaning only one side of her heart grew in the womb. Buying our first home is all about her, and securing a future for her. We quickly came to the decision we wanted a new build property, as this enabled us to get on the property ladder via Shared Ownership.”
Shared Ownership gives first-time buyers and those who do not currently own a property the opportunity to secure a new build home with Bromford. Homebuyers pay a mortgage on the share they own and pay rent on the remaining share, meaning only a smaller deposit is required. Purchasers can then increase their share during their time in the property.
Ryan added: “Shared Ownership has allowed us to get a foot on the property market, something we would not have been able to do without it. We plan to continue to save and buy more shares as and when we can, to ultimately own the property fully in the future. I would definitely recommend Shared Ownership to anyone in similar circumstances as ourselves – what is better than knowing you will own your own home?! It feels exciting and unreal, as we didn’t think moving into our first home would ever be possible. It’s almost like a dream come true!
“Coming home knowing we own our very own property and seeing what we have accomplished to get to this point is such a great feeling. We love the area and the fact we can come home and relax, knowing a future is secured for us.”
Twigworth proved to be a perfect location for Ryan and Fern to settle down in, as Darcie’s nursery and a handful of primary schools are located nearby. The small, quiet village provides the couple with easy access to Gloucester, Tewkesbury and the motorway, offering plenty of places to visit on day trips.
The young family purchased a semi-detached, three-bedroom home off-plan, providing them with everything they need for Darcie.
Ryan said: “Darcie now has her own space as she grows up, and the downstairs bathroom is a real bonus with potty training. The enclosed garden gives us security when Darcie is playing outside too, so the whole house and layout really suits our needs.
“I work from home so the ability to have an office has been more than ideal, and Fern has lots of plans to decorate when the time comes. The lounge is our favourite room at the moment, as it already has the cosy, warm feeling.”
Fern, who works at Tesco, added: “After reading a story on Facebook about the area and prospects at Twigworth Green, we were hooked and knew this would be the right place for us to move to. The development is still in its early stages, but there is already a residents’ Facebook group that brings us all together!
“The Bromford side of the purchase has been smooth, seamless and a good experience from start to finish. Our sales consultant, Fred, has been amazing and patient, and was always there for advice and support. We would definitely recommend Bromford to friends and family.”
Find out more about current Bromford developments.
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