First Owner Moves Into New Neighbourhood In Brighton

Investing in a flagship development at Home X – a new neighbourhood in north Brighton that forms part of the Preston Barracks Regeneration, enabled one father the chance to give his son the first step on to the property ladder, avoiding hefty rental prices in student accommodation. 

The latest report from the National Union of Students and housing charity Unipol reports that rents in student halls have increased by 4.4% in the last year and are now 16% higher than before the pandemic. Therefore, for Hashem Monfared, 52, investing in a one-bedroom property in Brighton seemed like a great opportunity. By releasing equity on his four-bedroom Guildford home, he was able to help his son, Erfan, purchase a one-bedroom apartment costing £307,000. 

Home X by Optivo is located between the South Downs and the sea, and is a moment’s stroll from Brighton University where Erfan, 22 studies bio-medical science. The new community in Lewes Road includes concierge, well-being spaces, flexible workspaces and communal, landscaped gardens. As part of the wider regeneration, the site will include a medical centre run by Assura, pharmacy, retail, workshops and a 1km running and fitness route. 

After viewing Home X, due to its close proximity to the university, Hashem and Erfan really liked the property and were impressed with the finishes including the kitchen and wider communal amenities. 

Hashem explains: “It made sense for me to release equity in my home and help my son by purchasing a property to invest in, for the long term rather than paying rental fees on the student accommodation. Even if we decided to sell up after his university course, we would have saved money that would have otherwise been spent on rent. This will allow Erfan to focus on his studies and set him up for the future.” 

Erfan now owns a one-bedroom property on the third floor with a balcony. He was one of the first residents to move into the property in spring. The apartment was quite the surprise after visiting several rental properties. 

He comments: “I was waiting to see if the halls would accept me and had looked at several rental properties further away, then my parents told me they would help me to purchase my first property. I am very aware that I am very lucky to be in this position, I wasn’t expecting it and I am very humble. I do prefer having my own space and appreciate quiet time to work on my studies. Home X is very peaceful and the security is great, with a diligent concierge team. I think for older students, who joined a bit later like myself, looking at buying a property rather than paying rent is a good idea.” 

The development offers Help to Buy and Shared Ownership opportunities and now has residents moved in, including young professionals, first-time buyers and families. 

Apartments at the development are bright and spacious with open-plan living spaces, the kitchens are fitted with smart and energy-efficient integrated appliances and bathrooms rock modern matt black fixtures and fittings. Selected apartments come with either their own balcony or a terrace. 

Sport fan Erfan loves living so close to the university, his local gym and the South Downs. He adds: “I moved to Brighton for the scenes of natural beauty, the sea is not too far and there’s fields, hills and parks much closer by. I am close to the gym and joined a kickboxing class too. I am also really looking forward to the 1km racing track when the development is complete. Coming from Guildford it was a little overwhelming at first to move to such a bustling city but now I am enjoying the liveliness and it’s great to get out to the bars and lanes with friend. There is so much to do.” 

Home X is on the market through Savills, with prices starting at £231,000 for a studio apartment, £293,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and £381,000 for a two-bedroom apartment, all available with Help to Buy. Other homes are also available to purchase with Shared Ownership. 

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