First Time Buyer June/July 2021

the Ultimate Guide to... GETTING ON THE LADDER, THE PROPERTY MARKET AND HELP TO BUY June/July 2021 £3.95 firsttimebuyermag.com

GOK WAN RUSTLES UP A DELICIOUS CHICKEN RAMEN

WIN!

A YALE SMART SECURITY DUO WORTH £389.98

95% MORTGAGES ARE BACK!

SPOTLIGHT ON INTERIORS: DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS AND TRENDS

“Don't get caught up in all the glam and glitz when you visit a potential home” Raphael Meade TV presenter

FTB 01 Cover June-July21.indd 1

06>

9 771758 973014

18/05/2021 15:35

FTB 02-03 Ed's-Letter June-July21.indd 2

18/05/2021 15:36

EDITOR’S LETTER

E D I T O R I A L – 020 3488 7754

Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant DAWN HARKER Junior Editorial Assistant KATIE WRIGHT Creative Director RYAN BEAL Sub Editor KAY HILL Social Media DAWN HARKER, KATIE WRIGHT

Contributors CHRIS CLARK, DEBBIE CLARK, ADAM CRAWFORD, DAWN HARKER, KAY HILL, JONNIE IRWIN, LAURA DEAN-OSGOOD, LESLEY PRICE, MIKE PRIOR, GINETTA VEDRICKAS, KATIE WRIGHT

A D V E RT I S I N G – 020 3488 7754

Director of Advertising/Exhibition Sales LYNDA CLARK

Welcome It certainly looks like the Government’s roadmap is going ahead and we are returning to being able to see friends and family and enjoying life once again.

During this very difficult time I am pleased to report that the housing market has prospered and many first time buyers have bought their dream home, which is great news.

The entries for our FTB Readers’ Awards 2021 are now in and the judges have drawn up the shortlist, so it is now over to you to go online and VOTE. This year, more than ever before, the competition is immense, with some truly inspirational developments and homes for first time buyers, and we really NEED YOUR VOTES! So please do go to ftbawards.com and choose your favourites – your vote really matters!

In his last budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a guarantee to lenders offering mortgages to homebuyers with just a 5% deposit. The scheme is designed to help those with a low deposit get accepted for a mortgage, with the Government backing part of the loan. It is great news for first time buyers so do go to pages 24-28, which explains about the scheme and we highlight some fabulous developments to give you some inspiration. Also, on pages 108-109 we look at just what the scheme means in more depth.

This issue is full of very interesting features and information on buying your first home and I hope you enjoy it!

Until next time, happy house hunting

lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk Special Events EILIDH MACLEOD – First Time Buyer Home Show – First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards boom@squarepegmedia.com

@firsttimebuyer

firsttimebuyeronline

Accounts accounts@ultimateguidecompany.com Managing Director SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk Public Relations RACHEL COLGAN

If you work for the NHS we would love to give you a year’s free subscription to the magazine – simply email us from your NHS email at nhs@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk with your name and address and you will receive six free issues

rachel@building-relations.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS 020 3488 7754

EDITOR’S PICKS…

After this Covid crisis many people want to move out of cities and find a better lifestyle.

I think educating people on the best way to get on the property ladder is the way forward Rune Sovndahl, At home as it is confusing.

SWITCHBOARD 020 3488 7754 All advertising copy for August/September 2021 must be received before 5 July 2021.

Send all copy to: lynda@ firsttimebuyermag.co.uk The content of this publication, either in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a data retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission from the publishers. Opinions expressed in First Time Buyer magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. © The Ultimate Guide Company Ltd 2008-2021. The Ultimate Guide Company Ltd t/a First Time Buyer magazine will take no responsibility for any loss/ claim resulting from a transaction with one of our advertisers/media partners.

This is an amazing location for people wanting the best out of Manchester without living in the centre.

Natalie Cooke, House Hunter, page 16

with, page14

We had no proper business plan and the bank wouldn’t lend us the money we needed.

Francesca Eyre, A string of pearls! Page 58

When it comes to buying property, most people are guilty of wanting to do a deal.

Sarah McCarthy, 20 Questions, page 130

Jonnie Irwin, Jonnie’s World, page 9

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 3

FTB 02-03 Ed's-Letter June-July21.indd 3

18/05/2021 15:36

CONTENTS

Cover photo © Mike Prior

JUNE/JULY 2021 / ISSUE 89 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK

What’s in…

66

Having rented in Cranleigh, Oliver Gregson, 24, and his partner Jessica Burton, 23, wanted to get on the housing ladder and decided to use shared ownership to buy their first home. They purchased a 30% share of a two bedroom apartment at SO Resi’s Alfold development in Surrey.

67

For sale HOMEPAGE

9 Words from Jonnie TV presenter and property expert Jonnie Irwin gives his views on the housing market.

11 FTB loves…

A round up of our favourite hot buys.

12 Living You wouldn’t expect to find your latest lampshade alongside your summer jacket. However, more of the fashion brands we love are branching out into homeware. Take a look at our Online Edit to see how

12

these and other online suppliers can help you to create the ultimate ambience with the latest must-have colour, Brave Ground.

14 At home with…

Rune Sovndahl Entrepreneur and co-founder of Fantastic Services Rune Sovndahl delivers bespoke customer care to provide services for the home, office and garden. Danish-born Rune moved to London 20 years ago and built up the business which now operates in Europe, America and Australia. He talks to Lynda Clark about how it all began, his first home and sustainability.

16 House Hunter We try to find Richard and Natalie Cooke a home within an hour’s drive of Manchester.

18 Developer’s doctor Gemma Harris, Head of Sales and Commercial Lettings at CHP, answers your property question.

FEATURED

20 The View: Raphael Meade Raphael Meade is an accomplished carpenter and joiner who took part in Eden, the reality TV show on Channel 4, where he and other participants spent a year in a remote part of Scotland, attempting to build a self-sufficient community.

He has recently filmed a new series for Channel 5 with Nick Knowles, which will be aired soon. He talks to Lynda Clark about his fascinating career and life story, his dreams for the future and gives some great advice for first time buyers.

backing part of the loan. Debbie Clark explores what this means for you and highlights some beautiful developments around the country.

30 Show Stopper During the pandemic when we have spent more time at home, many buyers are thinking very differently about what they want from their first home. We asked designers of show homes to highlight one they have recently worked on and asked them what influenced their ideas, what the current trends are and asked them to give some ideas especially for first time buyers.

24 95% Mortgages are Back!

Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced a guarantee to lenders offering mortgages to homebuyers with just a 5% deposit. The scheme is designed to help those with a low deposit get accepted for a mortgage, with the Government

30

4 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 04-05 Contents June-July21.indd 4

18/05/2021 15:40

CONTENTS RAPHAEL MEADE, PAGE 20

REMEMBER THAT THE SELLERS ARE DOING THEIR BEST TO TRY AND HOOK YOU

20

Raphael Meade

REGULARS

conveyancing process moving and to manage delays when they occur.

106 Why use a specialist broker?

Censeo Financial explains the five good reasons why you should use a specialist mortgage broker.

First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards 2021 A chance to view the shortlist for all the different categories, plus details of how you can cast your allimportant votes.

42 Hotspot

108 Finance

We look at the benefits of Reading as a place to live.

Kay Hill looks at the Government’s 95% mortgage scheme in detail and discovers how it compares to other options to get on the ladder.

110 Market

ftbawards.com

101

73

Competition Win a Yale Smart Security Duo worth £389.98

58 A String of Pearls!

The fascinating and inspirational story of Francesca Eyre and her family who moved to the French Alps 30 years ago and set up Chilly Powder, a collection of luxury chalets – but her story starts with a string of pearls!

102 First home, first meal Fashion expert, award-winning TV presenter and author Gok Wan creates a simple but delicious chicken ramen in association with itsu.

103 Fast food It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy going out with friends and family and taking a picnic. FTB has tried and tested some of the picnic items from the UK’s supermarkets to see which ones are the tastiest.

104 Keep calm and keep moving Lesley Price FCILEx of CGM Hampshire Limited gives advice on what you can do to keep the

Ginetta Vedrickas assess the issues of noise pollution, which is affecting some of our towns and cities.

112 Agony Agent All your property questions answered by our panel of experts.

115 Buyer’s Guide Check out FTB’s Buyer’s Guide, which walks you through the property buying process.

120 Common questions from a first time buyer Adam Crawford, Partner and Head of New Build Homes at Prince Evans Solicitors, looks at some of the common questions first time buyers might ask their conveyancer.

122 Directory Where and how to contact your Help to Buy Agents or providers.

130 20 Questions We ask 20 quick-fire questions to a property expert and in this issue Sarah McCarthy, Marketing Manager for Network Homes is in the spotlight.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 5

FTB 04-05 Contents June-July21.indd 5

18/05/2021 15:40

FTB 06-07 Mailbox June-July21.indd 6

18/05/2021 15:47

LETTERS

Mailbox MORTGAGE AGREEMENT I am now in a position to buy my first home after saving up for my deposit for quite a long time. I have found an apartment that I really like and I am just about to try to secure a mortgage. As I have not done this before, I want to go armed with as much information as possible. One of the things I have heard about is a “mortgage in principle”, but I have no idea what it is. Could you explain please?

Jo Ball FTB: Congratulations for saving for your deposit.

Also known as a decision in principle, a mortgage in principle is a certificate from a lender that says, “in principle” that it would lend a certain amount to a prospective borrower or borrowers based on their financial circumstances, subject to formal verification of the information supplied. In almost all cases, a mortgage in principle is undertaken by a lender prior to a mortgage application being made. The information you provide allows the lender to check your credit history and establish whether you are a possible candidate for it to lend money to.

This issue’s star letter wins a Lakeland Personal Ice Cream Maker worth £24.99. There’s nothing more comforting than an indulgent bowl of ice cream in front of a film or your favourite box set… but rather than popping out to the shops to buy some, why not make your own? Homemade always tastes better, and the ice cream maker creates just the right amount for one person, so simply choose your flavour and tuck in.

It even comes with a spoon! It’s not just for ice cream as you can make healthier options like frozen yoghurt and vegan-friendly sorbets too, and there’s even four delicious recipes included to get you started. lakeland.co.uk

NHBC WARRANTY COVER I am currently looking to buy my first home and when I have been to visit developments I keep being told properties come with a NHBC warranty. What does this actually include?

Esme Underwood FTB: The NHBC warranty covers new build properties for a period of up to 10 years and is often referred to as Buildmark. The first two years after legal completion

of the purchase of your home is the builder warranty period. If you tell the builder during this period that it has failed to meet the NHBC requirements, it must put this right within a reasonable period of time. Following this, the NHBC provides a further eight years’ insurance that covers any damage to your home caused by builders not meeting the NHBC standards. However, this doesn’t cover general wear and tear to your property.

WRITE TO US! Please send us your questions, comments and suggestions concerning property, or the articles in First Time Buyer magazine.

First Time Buyer Letters, 37 Ivor Place, London NW1 6EA lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk

REMOVAL VAN COSTS Having recently secured a mortgage and chosen my first property to buy, my focus has now turned to removal costs from my current rented property to the new one. What are the average removal costs when moving house?

Lottie Almond FTB: The first thing to consider is the size of the property you are moving from. On average, a one or two bedroom property will cost around £300-£500, while a three bedroom property will be over £600.

Bear in mind that the price of the move is not only dependent on the size of the property, but the distance you’re moving. Also there may be increased costs if you require disassembly and reassembly of items, or packing services. It’s good practice to ask at least three removal companies so that you can compare quotes. Also, ensure they send a removal-assessor who can evaluate what needs to be moved to give you a more accurate quote.

TEMPORARY HOURS CONTRACT I am starting the process of looking for my first mortgage. I currently work on a temporary contract and I’ve been told that I might be limited in what mortgage I can get because of this. Are lenders willing to lend to someone in my position?

Devante Brett FTB: The good news is that being on a temporary work contract won’t necessarily stop you getting a mortgage, providing you have at least 12 months’ history in your current line of work and have not had any breaks in your employment.

However, most lenders don’t like

short term contracts because they suggest that the applicant’s income isn’t guaranteed for any significant period of time. Like the majority of factors considered in a mortgage application, it’s all relative to the individual and is treated on a case-by-case basis.

It’s recommended that before applying, you seek advice from an independent financial adviser or mortgage broker about whether you are likely to qualify for a mortgage, as a rejection could damage your credit rating.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the first time, go to firsttimebuyermag.com

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 7

FTB 06-07 Mailbox June-July21.indd 7

18/05/2021 15:47

FTB 08-09 Jonnies-World June-July21.indd 8

18/05/2021 15:48

OPINION

Photo © Mike Prior

WORLD

TV presenter and property expert Jonnie Irwin gives his thoughts and views on first time buyers and the housing market

I bloomin’ love a deal me! Doesn’t matter if I’m in a fancy clothing boutique, an antiques shop or buying a car, I’ll always try to negotiate. Maybe it stems from the days of when I was skint – I put myself through university and could regularly be found in Cash Converters selling my stuff for cash.

There’s a chance it’s more innate than that – perhaps it’s a competitive streak where I don’t like to walk away from a deal thinking someone’s got the better of me. Either way, it’s not very cool is it?

When it comes to buying property, most people are guilty of wanting to do a deal. We are normally dealing with relatively huge numbers – for most people it’s the biggest financial outlay of that time of our life. Of course, we will want to strike a deal where we don’t quite pay the full asking price – it makes the deal feel a little in our favour and at least subconsciously we savour the victory when a discount is negotiated. My consultancy business (where I help people to buy property) even has a fee structure that incentivises me to get the best possible price. And so it should.

But there’s a fine line to be drawn. When I’m the person tasked with submitting the offer on a client’s behalf I often question (usually in my head) the thought process behind the figure. I’ve been flabbergasted by couples who have fallen head over heels with a property and been reduced to tears when I tell them it’s, say, £20,000 below their budget, only for them to put in a derisory offer. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a time and market for a cheeky offer, but any reduction has to be justifiable.

That, I suppose, is the intriguing thing about property – there’s no fixed rule but more of a nuanced way of how best to go about things. I’ve written in this column before about negotiating and it’s a subject that fascinates me because of the human element. And it’s just this human element that makes some deals hard to predict.

I have recently been trying to buy a new home for my family and had the frustrations of being stuck in a chain – something most first time buyers among you will be blissfully unaware of. It finally got to the day of exchange and we got gazumped. I repeat – on the actual day of exchange.

Everything was signed, the money was in place and someone came along and tempted the owner to deal with them. I even got into a bit of a bidding war until eventually I realised that whoever I was bidding against was prepared to throw more money at it than me and I had to think of my budget. Now I’ve always been pretty cold blooded about property, but my wife and I became quite emotionally attached to the idea of this house. Losing it in the manner we did was a shock and acutely unpleasant.

Hindsight, of course, is a wonderful thing, but it can also keep you up at night. I wondered what I could’ve done differently. The reality is not a lot – it’s difficult to legislate for greed, but it has reminded me as to my advice for first time buyers when offering on a home.

Your budget should always be the overriding cut-off point as to the highest you can afford to offer. Many property markets in the UK will see a lot of activity this year, with buyers in competition with one another. There really is no substitute for research. If you’ve watched the property market for a decent amount of time through the portals, agents and developers’ websites, then you will have a decent handle on what places are selling for and then ultimately you should know if a property is worth the asking price, or a bit more or less.

Just last week I was getting a coffee and the shop owner asked for advice on a place he was trying to buy. He had put in an offer on a flat which had also received other bids from buyers in excess of the asking price. He had been asked to submit a “best and final” offer by the end of the week.

My advice to him was to remind himself of his own budget and assess how much (if anything) he would need to spend on the flat. Then, ignoring everyone else, submit the maximum figure he could not only afford, but would be comfortable with.

Nothing more or less. If it sells for more than his bid, then he knows he’s done all he can with no regrets.

I didn’t ask him to try to find out who the other buyers were or second guess what someone else might go up to.

Control what is within your sphere of influence and do all you can if you’ve fallen in love with a place. If it doesn’t work out, then dust yourself down and go again.

What happened to the first time buyer I hear you ask?

Well, he got the place and is chuffed to bits. Oh, and I got a free coffee. Small victories.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 9

FTB 08-09 Jonnies-World June-July21.indd 9

18/05/2021 15:48

FTB 10-11 FTB-Loves June-July21.indd 10

18/05/2021 15:51

FTB LOVES

What’s hot in the shops? Always on the lookout for exciting and innovative new ideas and accessories that will help create the perfect space, here are our favourites this issue

Peace-lovin’ Planters

P i c n i cw t c e f r e P

are

the corner, it’s time to With hot days just around British outdoors – so at gre the of t mos make the exploring. Whether go and slather yourself in SPF Cotswolds or a weekyou fancy a day trip to the this four-person picnic rict, long trip in the Peak Dist ing you need to take backpack comes with everyth ight design is twe ligh your lunch with you. The all the plates and s ude incl and n clea e easy to wip ic for four. All picn ily fam a cutlery you’d need for blanket, and a a s, che dwi san e som are you need enjoy al fresco dining bottle of water, and you can with ease. £42, Next Four-person picnic backpack, next.co.uk

Morning Campers! Packed with flower power, these rockin’ pots are perfect for anyone who wants to add a splash of the 1960s (and colour) to their garden. Made of high-quality ceramic, these botanical buses are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Perfect for brightening up even the dullest of days, they make a hip gift for any camper fan. Just add some groovy greenery and you’re on your way to a great gardening adventure!

Campervan planter planter,, £19.50, Red Candy redcandy.co.uk

One Coat Wonder

There is nothing duller than waiting for paint to dry, especially when you’re trying to revamp your home. We love Dulux’s new Simply Refresh range, helping those home DIYers decorate and redesign a room with ease and speed. The range features two colour collections – One Coat and Feature Wall. Whether you go for the classic neutrals or the striking vibrant shades, all the paints have an extra-thick formula meaning you only need one coat to change a room, saving you money and time. The paints even come with Dulux’s One Coat Guarantee, giving you peace of mind to enjoy your home makeover.

Simply Refresh Paint, from £39.18, Dulux dulux.co.uk

Stress-free Family Cooking

What Mummy Makes is the highly anticipated cookbook from Instagram sensation Rebecca Wilson. The easy, fuss-free recipes are perfect for weaning children and for fussy eaters alike. The book is more than just recipes though, with tips and tricks for prepping ahead and essential ingredients to always have in stock. There is plenty of expert nutritionist advice and with over 130 simple, fresh and nutritious recipes designed for family enjoyment, this cookbook is a must-have in any home.

What Mummy Makes, £14.99, DK Penguin Random House dk.com You can follow Rebecca’s weaning community on Instagram @WhatMummyMakes

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 11

FTB 10-11 FTB-Loves June-July21.indd 11

18/05/2021 15:53

Homepage LIVING

ne O n l iEDIT

THE

d vase, £8; Home sculpture with foliage, £6; Seagrass covere t, £10.00; baske zine maga Bunny cushion, £8.00; Seagrass Wilko , £8.00 n, cushio Time At Thing One Gingham

There is a clear theme this spring – bringing the outside in – taking inspiration from earthy tones and natural textures and incorporating Dulux’s colour of the year, Brave Ground, a bolstering warm shade that connects back to nature. In particular, look out for designer pieces from names that are better known for their crop-tops than their candles, as more of the fashion brands we love are delving into home accessories, giving you even more choice to add to your Pinterest wish-list. Best of all, everything here is available online for delivery straight to your front door

Diane von Furstenberg x H&M Home round glass vase, £69.99, H&M Home

Botanical hanging frame, £8, Wilko

Beige Shrimp Studio Eat Spaghetti A3 print, £20, I Saw It First Black Sass & Belle large House Shelf, £20, I Saw It First

Black Mojave glaze bowl, £10, I Saw It First

Cream Sass & Belle Scandi Boho rug, £20, Sass & Belle

12

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 12-13 Interiors June-July20.indd 12

18/05/2021 15:54

Homepage LIVING Sass & Belle terracotta tassel basket, £25, Missguided

Sass & Belle cream Tufted Face cushion, £20, Missguided

Woven monochrome stripe throw, £29.50, M&S

Metal hanging storage baskets, £17.99, H&M Home

Sass & Belle nude large basket planter on legs, £15, Missguided Hanging plant in cement pot, £8.00 , Wilko

Beige shell candle, £15, Missguided

White Chickidee Terazzo desktop drawers, £20, I Saw It First

Nude Speckled Feather concrete tray, £16, Missguided

Brave Ground, Dulux Paint Mixing flat matt 2.5L, £30.04, Dulux

Medium Reactive glazed bottle vase, £7.50, M&S

Rattan lampshade, £59; Watercolour floral bedding set, £29.50-£59, M&S

» Dulux dulux.co.uk » H&M Home 2.hm.com » I Saw It First isawitfirst.com » Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com » Missguided missguided.co.uk » Wilko wilko.com

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 13

FTB 12-13 Interiors June-July20.indd 13

18/05/2021 15:54

Homepage LIVING

At home with:

Rune Sovndahl

Rune Sovndahl is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Fantastic Services, which combines technological innovations with bespoke customer care to deliver services for the home, office and garden. Rune, who is Danish, moved to London over 20 years ago and built up his business, which now operates in Europe, America and Australia. Lynda Clark finds out how it all began, his first home and his plans for the future FTB: Tell us about your first step on to the property ladder RS: I bought my first home in 1999 for £86,000 and it was a two bedroom excouncil apartment in the Elephant & Castle, which at the time wasn’t at all fashionable.

I had rented for many years and decided to buy a place of my own, but it was quite difficult. Firstly, I was a foreigner and I was self-employed and the banks were not keen to give me a mortgage, but I got there in the end. I foolishly sold it far too soon as I hadn’t realised how that area would be regenerated and that property prices would increase so much. I sold it for £250,000 but at the last count I think it sold for £450,000 – who would have imagined that!

FTB: Where do you live now?

RS: I live in central London in a rented apartment, which suits me at the moment.

I have plans to buy again but I am not sure where. I need to have a base in London, but like many people nowadays I need more space and a better lifestyle.

FTB: Tell us about how Fantastic Services started up RS: I was renting a place in Islington and was about to move out, but I had a red wine stain on the carpet that needed cleaning first. I made lots of calls to carpet cleaning companies but only two of them answered the phone. So I made arrangements for one of them to come round but they never turned up and nor did the second one, which really got me thinking. During this time, I went to a birthday party and met Anton Skarlatov and told him the story and funnily enough he had recently invested in a carpet cleaning company and immediately got on to it and sent someone

round. We got on so well we decided to join forces and start Fantastic Services, which we did in about three to four weeks. We offer domestic cleaning, end of tenancy cleaning for landlords, removals, gardening, handymen, tradesmen and builders, plumbers and pest control. We cover just about everything and it is a very successful business. We have over 600 franchisees and around 2,000 experts delivering services to 50,000 plus clients globally each month. We have very strict guidelines and principles that have to be followed by our franchisees. Quality and customer care are paramount and we do spot checks, have secret customers and we take our customer feedback very seriously. If there are any complaints or re-visits because the job was not satisfactory then we will re-train those people, as you are only ever as good as your last job. Our prices are very competitive and we are fully insured too. We are easily the largest home services provider in London and the company has been self-financed

“THE MORE WE CLEAN, REPAIR AND MAINTAIN WHAT WE ALREADY HAVE, THE MORE COST-EFFECTIVE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY WE CAN BE”

14 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 14-15 At Home With June-July21.indd 14

18/05/2021 16:00

Homepage LIVING since the outset. We are very busy, and during the pandemic we have really never stopped at all.

FTB: What are your plans for the future?

RS: We saw a huge increase in people wanting domestic cleaning, gardening and removals during 2020. As the property market has been booming, we have experienced high levels of people using our services. We are now concentrating on expanding our franchises throughout the UK, which is our main focus. We also have plans to expand internationally as well – you can never sit still, you need to move on and keep growing. Both Anton and I are very serious about our business and we are both passionate about sustainability – that is very important to our business.

FTB: Can you explain how Fantastic Services is sustainable?

RS: The most sustainable way forward for all of us is being able to reuse, repurpose and fix the things we already have. So the more we clean, repair and maintain what we already have, the more cost-effective and environmentally friendly we can be. As the UK’s biggest domestic services franchise operator, we see our role in helping people to repair, reuse and recycle as key to helping consumers become more sustainable. In the domestic services industry we often say, “a well-cleaned carpet, is one less carpet that goes to landfill”.

FTB: What further steps are you taking?

RS: We are undertaking a big initiative to reduce emissions and wastage as much as possible, and in 2019, we built a new logistics dispatch software that managed to cut 38% of the miles driven by our tradespeople – obviously resulting in lower emissions. This software also helps our teams with planning jobs ahead and letting clients select eco slots, for when a tradesperson is near you and available. For example, you can now choose to book a cleaner already working in the next street to you, rather than book a cleaner who has to travel from the other side of your town or city. We’re always looking for ways to improve and intend to innovate new technologies to lower our carbon footprint wherever we can. We all have a long way to go, but we believe we’re making steps in the right direction.

FTB: What is your advice for first time buyers?

RS: When you buy your first property you should understand and think of it as an investment and consider what the longterm gain will be. In London, many people are very concerned about what travel zone they will live in, but that comes at a price

“WE HAVE VERY STRICT GUIDELINES AND PRINCIPLES THAT HAVE TO BE FOLLOWED

BY OUR FRANCHISEES. QUALITY AND CUSTOMER CARE ARE PARAMOUNT AND WE DO SPOT CHECKS, HAVE SECRET CUSTOMERS AND WE TAKE OUR CUSTOMER FEEDBACK VERY SERIOUSLY” and a high price too! After this Covid crisis many people want to move out of cities and find a better lifestyle out of town. We have seen this with our removals – people are moving away and are happy to commute for say an hour. Priorities have changed,

and I am sure many first time buyers are re-thinking what location they would like to buy in – after all it is your home and you need to feel happy and contented there. fanstasticservices.com

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 15

FTB 14-15 At Home With June-July21.indd 15

18/05/2021 16:00

Homepage FIRST RUNG

The

HOUSE HUNTER

What we found…

THE NORTHERN STAR Hollins Green Preston, Lancashire

FROM £50,000*

THE SUBURBAN HOTSPOT Millfields Middleton, Greater Manchester

FROM £269,995

This month FTB goes on the hunt with Richard and Natalie Cooke, who are after a home with two or more bedrooms, within a 60-minute drive of Manchester

PROFILE

Names Richard Cooke, 38, and Natalie Cooke, 36 Occupations Graphic Designer, Royalties Manager Maximum budget £350,000 Requirements A home with two or more bedrooms within an hour’s drive of Manchester. A peaceful setting with countryside close by and good local amenities is preferred, along with space for working from home

What they wanted…

We live in a busy area of Manchester, where we’ve been for a few years. Since the first lockdown in 2020 we’ve both been lucky enough to work from home – and we’ve had time to realise that we’d like to get away from the city and into the countryside. As things go back to normal, we’ll both be working just one or two days a week from our offices in Manchester and the rest of the time we’ll be at home. We’ve wanted to buy a place for a while, and we now feel like this has freed us up to look further afield. As we’ll only be travelling to work twice a week, we’re happy to move somewhere up to an hour’s drive from Manchester. We’d like to find a new house that’s in a peaceful – possibly rural – location, with countryside easily accessible but some good amenities nice and close by. We’ll need at least two bedrooms for working space. We have savings of just over £35,000 and a budget of £350,000.”

16

Set in a semi-rural location on the edge of Lancashire’s Forest of Bowland, Hollins Green in Forton offers a selection of stylish two, three and four bedroom homes. This new collection has good transport links, with the M6 motorway a five-minute drive away and nearby Lancaster station providing services to London, Liverpool and Manchester airport.

The quaint village of Forton is perfect for rural relaxation and family time, while nearby Garstang has a wider choice of shops and supermarkets, along with Marketgate Shopping Centre a little further afield.

The Manchester suburb of Middleton is a popular place for homebuyers, with trains to the city centre taking under 10 minutes.

The new homes at Millfields range from three to four bedrooms and have been created in a variety of styles. The three bedroom detached properties feature a separate lounge, kitchen/diner, downstairs WC and an en suite to the master bedroom. For everyday amenities, nearby Middleton is home to shops, supermarkets and eateries, while lovely countryside and great walking routes are minutes from the door.

laurushomes.co.uk

elan-homes.co.uk

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £200,000

What they thought…

Forton looks like a lovely spot – with rolling hills all around and the coast nearby. The homes are a nice mix of traditional and modern, which we like. We love the kitchens – a vast improvement on our tiny flat’s outdated offering. This would be an ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle, but Lancaster and Preston are both within easy reach. Manchester would take around an hour by car, which is perfect. It is quite far north from our families, but with the extra bedrooms we could easily have people to stay.”

We have friends who have moved to the outer areas of Manchester in order to buy bigger places, and they’re really happy. The commute into central Manchester is pretty easy from Middleton, around 25 minutes.

Richard would probably cycle in, as it’s around six miles. We do quite like the idea of being outside of the city centre, but being able to visit really quickly. That way we get the best of both worlds. It’s also great that we’d be able to afford more bedrooms here, which is a huge plus.”

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 16-17 Househunter June-July21.indd 16

18/05/2021 16:00

Homepage FIRST RUNG

THE NEW COMMUNITY The Courtyard Woodford Garden Village, Cheshire

FROM £364,995

THE LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT The Depot Whalley Range, Manchester

FROM £269,950

First choice!

T THE COUNTRY RETREA

FROM £61,250*

Giantswood Grovee Congleton, Cheshir

This collection of two bedroom, two bathroom apartments marks the latest phase of the popular Garden Village development.

When complete, this new community will be home to amenities including a primary school, shops, pub, health centre and plenty of green space. The apartments have been carefully planned with well-proportioned living spaces, private balconies and hallway storage. Manchester can be reached in under 30 minutes and Stockport and Macclesfield are under 10 miles away for large-town facilities.

Created on the site of the former Stagecoach depot, this five-acre development will soon be home to more than 200 houses and apartments. The development has been built in keeping with the Victorian homes in the area, with sustainability in mind. The properties range from one and two bedroom apartments to three and four bedroom family homes, which come complete with openplan kitchen/dining rooms that open to a private garden. Master bedrooms in the larger properties are en suite. Manchester city centre is around a mile away.

redrow.co.uk

thepropertyperspective.co.uk

This new development looks amazing – it’s essentially a whole new town, with lots of modern facilities. We like the style of the apartments here and think they’re really classy. The kitchens are super-sleek and we love the idea of extra storage, as we currently have nowhere to keep things such as our camping gear and Richard’s cycle things. The area would be amazing for exploring – there’s so much nature all around, and we love that the development includes playing fields and parks.”

This is an amazing location for people wanting the best out of Manchester without living in the centre. There are so many great places within walking distance. We love Alexandra Park, close by, and will always love Deansgate and the canalside, which could be reached in around 30 minutes on foot. These homes look really great, we like the style, which is a great mix of classic and contemporary. Of course, it’s also very appealing that the homes have strong eco credentials.”

ntswood ks of the River Dane, Gia Located close to the ban the of all ring of Congleton, offe Grove sits on the edge side ntry cou ire esh Ch n, with the benefits of a thriving tow al loc the h wit g pin kee ed in on its doorstep. Design ion of Grove features a collect surroundings, Giantswood pment elo dev The es. bedroom hom two, three, four and five ent n-Tr ke-o Sto to s link ing 4, provid is situated just off the A3 and we Cre mainline train stations in and Manchester, while e lud inc ties per short drive away. Pro Macclesfield are just a ed turf a and om hro , modern bat a fully integrated kitchen . rear garden laurushomes.co.uk *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £245,000

THE NEXT STEP

“We’ll certainly enjoy taking a drive down to Congleton to check out the area to make sure it is what we’re after. We’ll also register our interest and speak to a mortgage adviser so that we can get the ball rolling on our dream home!”

This really is quite a rural location, which we are certainly up for! The homes are lovely – we’d be able to afford three bedrooms here, which is exciting. We’ll have room for a home office and space for family to stay, too. We love that there are separate kitchen and dining rooms and that there’s a good-sized back garden. There’s still lots of thing nearby, with quite a lot in Congleton itself, as well as Macclesfield and Stoke, which are in easy reach. But we’d essentially be in the countryside, which is something we’ve wanted for so long. Manchester is under an hour by car, which is perfect if we’re only in the office twice a week.”

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 16-17 Househunter June-July21.indd 17

17

18/05/2021 16:01

ADVICE

Gemma Harris is Head of Sales and Commercial Lettings for CHP, a locally managed and governed housing provider based in Chelmsford, Essex. Gemma joined CHP just over two years ago to lead on the delivery of the sales programme consisting of both new and existing homes. With more than 20 years’ experience of working in the affordable housing sector, Gemma is passionate about shared ownership and delivering an excellent customer experience

Q

I really want to buy my first home, but on my income alone I just can’t afford to buy anything at the moment.

I’ve saved what I feel is a reasonable level of deposit, but it’s just not enough.

A number of people have suggested shared ownership to me, but I really don’t know enough about it to know whether this is the right option for me.

Can you help?

chp.org.uk to take a look there too! If there are homes that catch your interest I would recommend that you contact the provider for more information. It may be that you have your own mortgage lender or independent mortgage adviser in mind, alternatively you can ask the provider to give you the details of its panel

A

Shared ownership is a fantastic option to help people get a foot on the property ladder. You can buy a share in a home from between 25% to 75% based on what you can afford and pay a subsidised monthly rent on the unowned share to the provider selling the home. This means that you only need a deposit for the value of the share you are buying, not the full market value of the home, making buying a home far more achievable and affordable for those on lower incomes with smaller deposits! Once you’ve bought your home, you have the ability to increase your ownership through buying further shares in your home, usually up to 100%. This process is called staircasing.

Just like buying a home on the open market, shared ownership is available on both brand new homes in newly built developments, as well as on secondhand homes available for resale. There are different property types to suit your individual needs, so it’s definitely worth investigating further.

To find out what is available in your preferred location, the best place to start would be through web portals such as helptobuy.gov.uk or keaze.com. There you will find details of all of the homes available for shared ownership and who to contact for more information. At CHP we have a fantastic range of one, two and three bedroom apartments and houses for sale across Essex, in great locations to suit everyone, so you can always visit

18

Gemma Harris, Head of Sales and Commercial Lettings, CHP

of independent mortgage advisers who specialise in shared ownership. Either way they will be able to confirm your affordability and advise you of the mortgage products available to you with the level of deposit you have, to help you determine whether buying a shared ownership home is a possibility for you.

Arla, Chelmsford

These six two bedroom apartments available with shared ownership are set alongside open countryside in the delightful village of Hatfield Peverel, just minutes from Chelmsford.

The apartments at Arla offer the perfect blend of country living and city convenience.

FROM With a supermarket, post office and farm shop along with a GP surgery, pharmacy and dental practice, Hatfield Peverel has everything you’ll need on a daily basis. You’ll also find cafes, traditional pubs and the popular Blue Strawberry Bistro. The village has a wonderful sense of community. The village hall hosts a wide range of clubs and societies and the community club organises events and activities, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in local life.

Whether you’re commuting for work, planning a shopping expedition, taking a trip to the coast or holidaying abroad, Arla is ideally located, with excellent transport links.

Available now, each apartment offers contemporary fixtures and fittings, a fully integrated kitchen and dedicated parking, with prices starting from £92,750 (*for a 35% share with a full market value of £265,000).

£92,75

0*

For further information contact the sales team at CHP: email sales@chp.org.uk, call 0300 555 0500 or visit our website chp.org.uk The details and CGI in this feature are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change without notice

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 2018

FTB 18-19 Dev-Doc June-July21.indd 18

18/05/2021 16:03

FTB 18-19 Dev-Doc June-July21.indd 19

18/05/2021 16:03

THE VIEW

Hands On! Raphael Meade is a big character whose life story is quite extraordinary. He is an accomplished carpenter and joiner and took part in Eden, the reality TV show on Channel 4, where he and 22 other participants spent a year in a remote part of Scotland, attempting to build a self-sufficient community. He has recently just filmed a new series for Channel 5 with Nick Knowles, which will be aired soon. He talks to Lynda Clark about how it all began, his dreams for the future and gives some advice for first time buyers Photos Mike Prior

20 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 20-23 The-View June-July21.indd 20

18/05/2021 16:04

THE VIEW

"MY MUM AND GRANDMOTHER WANTED ME TO GET A ‘PROPER’ JOB FOR LIFE – SOMETHING IN LONDON TRANSPORT OR WORKING FOR A LOCAL AUTHORITY BUT I ENDED UP BEING A CLERK IN A SOLICITOR'S OFFICE WHICH I ABSOLUTELY HATED" First Time Buyer June/July 2021 21

FTB 20-23 The-View June-July21.indd 21

18/05/2021 16:04

THE VIEW

"IT WAS HARDEST THING I HAD EVER DONE AND A HUGE CHALLENGE. WE LIVED IN A REMOTE PART OF SCOTLAND AND WE WERE CONSTANTLY STARVING. I AM DEFINITELY NOT A FOODIE AND EATING DOESN’T BOTHER ME AT ALL I THOUGHT, BUT IT SOON BECAME LIKE SOMETHING FROM LORD OF THE FLIES AND THE SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST"

W

hen I talk to Raphael he is in his man cave in the garden, wearing roller skates. Yes, roller skates! Always on the go, he is ready and waiting after our chat to go for a spin.

Raphael explains that from as far back as he remembers he was the family fixer. “I love working with my hands and I used to take my dad’s (who was in the building trade) tools without him knowing and I got into lots of trouble. I was quite naughty as a child and if we found an old pram we would ‘borrow’ the wheels and make go-karts – we were always up to something.

"I always loved cars and if I was given a racing car for my birthday or Christmas I would dismantle it and put it back together the way I wanted it to be as I was fascinated in how it worked. I wasn’t very academic at school but once it came to the tech classes, working with wood and metal, I was in my element and top of the class! One summer on the way to school I passed a house that was being renovated and I decided to take a look at what was going on. I poked my head round the door and asked if there was any work available.

"The boss was a Greek man and he called me in and asked me to mix up some cement. I didn’t go to school for a few days, which looking back was very bad, but I had the best time. The guys on site would have

a full English breakfast every day and I was always invited to go along with them and to this day I love a good fry-up breakfast!”

Because of his love of cars, it seemed natural that he would become a mechanic, but he couldn’t stand the grease under his nails so that was out of the question. “My mum and grandmother wanted me to get a ‘proper’ job for life – something in London Transport or working for a local authority but I ended up being a clerk in a solicitor's office which I absolutely hated, so I left.

I was always doing carpentry stuff in my spare time yet did not consider it a career.

I then became a dispatch rider, which I enjoyed as I liked riding around on my motorbike, but I got caught for speeding a couple of times and lost my licence for two years so that was the end of that job!

"I didn’t really know what to do next. I have always looked very young for my age and got away without paying the adult fare on the bus for many years. I decided that I would join London Transport and apart from getting free travel I would have some work. I was a guard on the underground for four and half years which was all right but not the job of my dreams. I was friendly with one of the drivers and he told me that as I had a steady job I would soon get married and settle down and have a family.

That got me thinking because I wasn’t

nearly ready for that and still enjoyed going out at weekends. One day I went into the canteen and saw all those people looking pretty depressed and thought to myself that could be me, so decided to leave.

“I then decided to go back to college and train to be a carpenter, which was always something I loved. Eventually I started my own business and had an office in Upper Street in London and a workshop in Tottenham I used with a friend. We were so busy and we were making a lot of money, but suddenly one day the phone stopped ringing and because of the recession there was no work and no money. Stung hard by the recession, I then decided that I would train to be a school teacher, passing on my love of sport and woodwork, so I went to Roehampton University.

"We had to do a placement in a school and I decided that I would ask my old school if I could do it there. I wanted to give something back and as I was once 'that problem child' I knew how to connect with other like-minded children. But, there are so many restrictions when you are a teacher and I soon realised that I just wasn’t cut out for it. Because of everything I had financially been through I had stopped chasing that pot of gold and just wanted to live one day at a time. A friend wanted me to go into business with him but I really

22 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 20-23 The-View June-July21.indd 22

18/05/2021 16:04

THE VIEW didn’t want to go down that path again, but eventually I got sucked in and started building houses.”

During this time, a friend on Facebook had been approached by a TV production company as they were looking for somebody with building and carpentry skills for a programme they were planning.

The friend had passed Raphael’s name on and the production company called him up. “I had no idea who it was or what they wanted and I seriously thought it was a prankster and hung up the phone. They called the next day and explained they were making a reality show and would I be interested in taking part but that I would have to live away from home for a year.

"We were very busy at work so it was bad timing and I wasn’t sure my wife would agree to me being away for so long.

Eventually she did agree to it and I had an interview – one of the questions was, ‘What would you do if you were on a desert island and starving?' I replied, ‘Well nobody better die as they would end up on my plate!’ This really made them laugh and they asked if I would take part in the show, which was called Eden and was on Channel 4.

“It was hardest thing I had ever done and a huge challenge. We lived in a remote part of Scotland and we were constantly starving. I am definitely not a foodie and eating doesn’t bother me at all I thought, but it soon became like something from Lord of the Flies and the survival of the fittest. I had never camped, swam in rivers or lakes and was never really an adventurous outdoors type, but it gave me time to reflect and learn a great deal about myself. I made a lifelong friend there, Anton, and I couldn’t have survived it without him – he is amazing!”

After Eden finished, Raphael was advised to find an agent, which led him to make adverts and have small parts in films and on television shows. He worked as part of a team on TV’s Grand Designs, on the famous straw house, and has remained friends with the owner, Sarah Wigglesworth, and has from time to time popped in to do remedial work. His latest venture has been making a new TV show for Channel 5 with Nick Knowles. “I can’t say too much but the show is about making an awkward space into something more practical and I give lots of hints and tips on how to achieve this.

I am not quite sure when it will be aired but it was great fun and I am sure it will be very popular.” He also makes videos about carpentry, which he films in his man cave, for YouTube and Instagram. “I do little films for all levels and come up with simple ways to fix problems with lots of ideas too. I also teach carpentry, which I really enjoy.” He also works on film set construction making scenery, most recently on a set for a BBC

"ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT THE SELLERS ARE DOING THEIR BEST TO TRY AND HOOK YOU TO BUY IT, SO TAKE A LOOK AND THEN GO HOME AND THINK ABOUT IT. AFTER A FEW DAYS GO BACK AND TRY TO ENVISAGE THE PLACE WITHOUT THE FURNITURE AND SEE WHAT POTENTIAL IT HAS" production, My Name Is Leon with Lenny Henry as one of the main characters.

He is a martial arts instructor and enjoys coaching others, especially people who are shy or have low self-esteem, and said, “The beauty is to see someone you never thought would, blossom.”

Raphael lives next door to his in-laws and loves his home and being part of an extended family. When it comes to buying your first home he has some very sound advice. “Don’t get caught up in all the glam and glitz when you visit a potential home.

Always remember that the sellers are doing their best to try and hook you to buy it, so take a look and then go home and think about it. After a few days go back and try to envisage the place without the furniture and see what potential it has. Try and see it with your mind and not your eyes and keep a clear head before making any decisions.”

Before we finish our chat, I ask Raphael what he would like to do in the future and I

am totally surprised by his answer. “As long as I have air in my lungs and blood in my veins I am happy. But, my dream would be to sit on the sofa on The Graham Norton Show and to take part in Strictly Come Dancing.

Growing up I wanted to be a ballet dancer.

I remember walking past the television and Rudolph Nureyev was on the screen dancing and doing big jumps and I thought he was amazing. I told my mum that was what I wanted to do and she said a definite no, but if I had my time again I would fulfil my ambition and train to be a ballet dancer.”

Ballet dancer or not, Raphael is very talented and as his grandmother said to him, “There is no such thing as can’t. You will or you won’t. Find a way.” So maybe we just might see him dancing a pas de deux one day soon.

Nick Knowles’ Home Improvements will be on Channel 5, with the first show now scheduled to air in June

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 23

FTB 20-23 The-View June-July21.indd 23

18/05/2021 16:04

MORTGAGES

95% MORTGAGES ARE BACK! In the recent Budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a guarantee to lenders offering mortgages to homebuyers with just a 5% deposit. The scheme is designed to help those with a low deposit get accepted for a mortgage, with the Government backing part of the loan. The scheme is open now and will run until December 2022. Lloyds, NatWest, Santander, Barclays and HSBC have already signed up to offer these mortgages, with more lenders expected to follow. Debbie Clark explores what this means for you HOW DOES IT WORK? As a buyer, there will be no difference between a mortgage offered within this scheme or outside of it – the mortgage will operate in exactly the same way. The scheme is ultimately designed to protect lenders and give them the confidence to offer 95% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages again. The Government is effectively committing to covering 95% of any losses a lender makes on the amount of the mortgage above 80% loan-to-value, for example if you were ever to default on your mortgage, resulting in the property being repossessed. Any lender taking part in the scheme will be required to

offer a five-year fixed mortgage as part of its range of 95% LTV products.

AM I ELIGIBLE? Most likely yes, providing the property you are hoping to purchase is priced at £600,000 or less. The eligibility criteria are as follows:  You must be buying a main residential home in the UK (not a second home or buy-to-let property)  The property must be worth £600,000 or less  You must have a deposit equivalent to between 5% and 9% of the property’s purchase price

Location

Average FTB House Price

5% Deposit

15% Deposit

Reduction

North East

£120,953

£6,048

£18,143

£12,095

Scotland

£131,034

£6,552

£19,655

£13,103

North West

£154,175

£7,709

£23,126

£15,418

Yorkshire and The Humber

£156,387

£7,819

£23,458

£15,639

Wales

£159,106

£7,955

£23,866

£15,911

West Midlands Region

£180,558

£9,028

£27,084

£18,056

East Midlands

£180,670

£9,034

£27,101

£18,067

South West

£231,541

£11,577

£34,731

£23,154

East of England

£257,493

£12,875

£38,624

£25,749

South East

£271,016

£13,551

£40,652

£27,102

London

£431,160

£21,558

£64,674

£43,116

England

£244,560

£11,228

£33,684

£22,456

Great Britain

£210,727

£10, 536

£31,609

£21,073

24

 You must apply for a capital repayment mortgage (so you cannot use an interestonly mortgage)  You’ll need to pass your lender’s normal mortgage affordability criteria

IS IT A GOOD DEAL? That depends! See pages 108-109 for more information on the actual rates, but the lower your LTV, the better rate you will get; so this isn’t necessarily the "cheap" option.

It is therefore vital, as always, to consult an independent financial adviser (IFA) about what type of mortgage is best for your situation. Ultimately, whether a low deposit mortgage is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances, and a good IFA will be able to advise accordingly. They will likely ask you if you’re able to supply a larger deposit, as if you have access to a 10% deposit or more, you will have access to far favourable rates.

Research by lettings and estate agent Barrows and Forrester looked at what the new scheme means in monetary terms for first time buyers across Great Britain, based on the cost of a 5% deposit on the average first time buyer house price in each region. They found the average first time buyer mortgage deposit would now be just £10,536, making the prospects of getting a foot on the ladder far more realistic for many than it has been in recent months

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 24

18/05/2021 16:10

MORTGAGES

DAGENHAM

CROYDON

This contemporary collection of homes from Clarion features 325 apartments including studios, one, two, and three bedroom properties, which are set around landscaped open spaces and children’s play areas. The apartments offer open-plan kitchen/living/ dining areas and all open out on to a balcony or terrace. The communal landscaped roof terraces and gardens are also a huge plus for city living. With less than half an hour walk to the River Thames, and located next to a retail park with vast amenities, as well as having fantastic transport links into central London, Merrielands offers an ideal and wellconnected lifestyle for all.

This development is part of a new neighbourhood in central Croydon connecting with The Queen’s Gardens, and delivering a total of 513 new homes and 12,500 sq ft of retail and commercial space. There is a range of one to three bedroom apartments available, enjoying views over the adjoining gardens.

The high-specification homes are designed to maximise the use of space, with open-plan living areas that open on to a private balcony.

Homes at Queens Quarter are available to those living or working in any London borough.

Merrielands

ALTRINCHAM Allingham Place

Coming soon to Altrincham, Allingham Place boasts an affordable option to purchase in south Manchester’s "trendiest neighbourhood".

This exciting new development offers a selection of two bedroom apartments available to purchase through shared ownership. Each apartment has been designed to offer luxury living at an affordable price. Set in a prime location, Allingham Place is surrounded by local amenities, where shops, bars and restaurants are plentiful. geckohomes.co.uk/find-a-home/allinghamplace-altrincham-2-bed-apartments 0330 995 1333 *Coming soon

when many lenders have been insisting upon a 15% deposit. This figure obviously varies significantly across Great Britain, with average deposits under £5,000 in some parts of Scotland and the North, and averaging over £20,000 in London.

Managing Director of Barrows and Forrester, James Forrester, commented, “We’ve seen numerous schemes targeted at helping first time buyers get on the ladder in recent years and rightly so. The cost of homeownership has spiralled drastically across Britain in the past 30 years and so it’s vital we do all we can to address this issue of affordability and remain a nation of homeowners. The great news is, that with a 5% mortgage deposit, the initial financial barrier of securing a mortgage will now be far lower than it previously was.”

We have scoured the country for developments which would allow you to find your perfect home, taking advantage of the new scheme. Barking and Dagenham ranks as the capital’s most affordable area, with Croydon coming in third, so our featured developments here are well worth considering if you are hoping to set up home in London. Similarly, Southampton ranks as the most affordable area in the South East, with an average deposit of under £10,000.

FROM £82,500*

FROM £89,250*

FROM £TBC*

Queens Quarter

sharetobuy.com/developments/2520 0300 100 0309

lqhomes.com/queensquarter 020 8189 7602 *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £330,000

FROM £75,750*

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £255,000

FROM £75,250*

CROYDON

Cairo Apartments

ROCHDALE

This brand new development, located in Rochdale, consists of 28 three and four bedroom houses. These lovely, modern family homes feature contemporary kitchens, integrated fridge-freezers, double ovens and two parking spaces per property. Homeowners will benefit from transport links to Manchester city centre, as well as proximity to local rural beauty spots.

These modern studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments have been designed to offer both comfort and versatility, with open-plan living areas planned to maximise space and light. Finishing touches include stylish tiling in the bathrooms, space-saving designs and compact heating solutions. The development provides easy access to the impressive shopping, leisure and entertainment that Croydon is renowned for. Nearby transport links provide easy connections to the rest of the capital and beyond.

plumlife.co.uk/development/belfield-mill 0161 447 5050

optivosales.co.uk/cairo-apartments 0800 0121 442

Belfield Mill Lane

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £215,000

* Based on a 30% share of the full market value of £252,500

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 25

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 25

18/05/2021 16:10

MORTGAGES

CASE STUDY

GODALMING Amber Lodge

Acute medicine nurse and first time buyer Lauren Pinnell, 26, has bucked the recent trend of moving to the country by starting a new life in the city. Before relocating to Southampton, Lauren lived with her mum and brothers 50 miles away in Warminster. She explains, “I am a country girl at heart, but I was yearning for a totally opposite life to the one I had in Warminster. When my mum kindly gifted me some money for a deposit on my first home, I knew that it was my chance to start a new life for myself in Southampton.”

Lauren, who works in Winchester, used Inland Homes’ exclusive key worker discount to secure her first home, a two bedroom apartment at Chapel Riverside, Southampton, in September. Speaking of the discount, she said, “Given the current climate and the circumstances that key workers have found themselves in, it’s really nice to have an acknowledgement of the extremely hardworking efforts we are going through. The key worker discount gave me a 1% cash discount which was an added bonus, and meant I could get more than I originally planned for.”

Lauren had her heart set on Chapel Riverside having visited a friend who had bought a property in Phase One of the development. She recalls, “I just thought the whole set-up of the development was beautiful, and so convenient for young people like me looking for their first home. I actually put my deposit down on this apartment before I’d even viewed it in person, as I completely trusted that it was going to be perfect. When I viewed the property online, I loved the fact that it was a two bedroom home, and that it had fantastic views across Southampton, as well as dedicated parking which makes life so much easier for me. Since moving in, I’m even more in love with it! Every room is so bright and airy, and I feel like when I walk in, I can just breathe and relax.”

Lauren added, “Even with Covid-19 and all the strains of working in the NHS, the buying process was made so easy for me, and everyone was very accommodating to my needs. Moving to Chapel Riverside has really enabled me to enjoy a new lifestyle – it’s better than I could ever have dreamed, and I can’t wait to see what the future will bring in my new home!”

FROM £400,000*

Amber Lodge by Shanly Homes, in the market town of Godalming, is a nine-minute walk from Godalming station, with a 50-minute train journey to London Waterloo – offering the perfect balance of town and country. These two bedroom apartments feature an open plan kitchen/living/dining room, en suites to the master bedrooms and fitted wardrobes. All come with allocated parking spaces and secure cycle storage. The development is within walking distance of the town with its restuarants, bars, cafes and pubs, while the nearby town of Guildford boasts a range of shopping experiences. The monthly Godalming farmers’ market provides the perfect opportunity to stock up on local produce. shanlyhomes.com 01483 420 555

BURNHAM Burnham Court

FROM £260,000

Burnham Court consists of 58 one and two bedroom apartments and three bedroom townhouses. Highlights of the high-quality specification include bespoke matt-finished kitchen cabinets fitted with a comprehensive range of Bosch appliances. All homes offer off-street parking and private outdoor space; apartments have balconies and houses have private gardens. The development is ideally located close to the village centre, with its appealing high street and train station close by, which offers a regular 36-minute service into London Paddington, with Crossrail coming soon. Burnham Court is also well situated for fast access to the M4, M40 and A4, just 23 miles from central London and a short 25-minute drive to Heathrow airport. Buckinghamshire is one of the few English counties continuing to offer grammar school education, which gives it added appeal for some parents. chanceryhomes.co.uk 01628 674 234

SCARISBRICK, WEST LANCASHIRE

FROM £78,750*

Sandhills Park

Sandhills Park from Onward Living is a new development offering an attractive collection of three bedroom detached and semi-detached homes through shared ownership. These striking homes come in a variety of styles and include contemporary fitted kitchens, modern bathrooms, en suites, utility rooms, and off-road parking.

Scarisbrick is conveniently situated on Southport Road, the main road between Southport and Ormskirk. Kew Retail Park, with a range of large stores, is nearby, and there are supermarkets, pharmacies, a GP, pubs, cafes, and a gym close at hand. Meols Cop train station is just over a mile away, offering direct links to Manchester and Wigan, as well as trains to Liverpool via Southport. onward-living.co.uk 0300 555 0130 *Based on a 35% share with a full market value of £225,000

26

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 26

18/05/2021 16:10

MORTGAGES

FROM £150,500*

FROM £99,750*

FROM £117,500*

SOUTHAMPTON Chapel Riverside

CROYDON The Grove

Designed by award-winning architect Metropolitan Workshop, these 41 two and three bedroom apartments are available just moments from East Croydon station. In addition to the spacious, high-specification apartments, the building boasts a residents’ lounge, co-working space, wellness room, and three themed rooftop terraces offering stunning views across south London. East Croydon is a major transport hub, with excellent train links to London Victoria and London Bridge, as well as south to Gatwick airport and Brighton. Tramlink services go west to Wimbledon and east to Beckenham and Addington. There are also cycle routes for people of all abilities and the development even offers a designated cycle maintenance area with tools provided, and a cycle store with capacity for 194 bikes. optivosales.co.uk/the-grove 0800 0121 442

RINGMER, EAST SUSSEX Levett Fields

In the historic village of Ringmer in East Sussex, Optivo is offering three and four bedroom houses through shared ownership. This stunning development combines perfectly connected country living with contemporary design and is on the edge of rolling hills and woodland trails.

Ringmer has all the amenities you could want, including shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

The homes are built to a high specification with fully integrated kitchens which include an oven, hob, extractor hood, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washing machine.

Centrum

starthurhomes.com/chapel-riversidesouthampton 020 7224 3066 *Based on a 50% share of the full market value of £235,000

FROM £67,375*

optivosales.co.uk/levett-fields 0800 0121 442

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £399,000

FELTHAM

Chapel Riverside, set in a striking four-storey building, is a premier new destination for modern urban living. This collection of stylish riverfront apartments includes 24 elegant one and two bedroom homes available through shared ownership. Enjoying a superb setting on the banks of the River Itchen, within easy reach of Southampton city centre and Ocean Village, they are already in great demand from discerning first time buyers. The spacious, well-designed properties offer purchasers an ideal combination of a quality specification and affordability.

*Based on a 35% share with a full market value of £430,000

FROM £104,000*

LANGHO, BLACKBURN Petre Wood

Occupying a central location, overlooking Longford River and moments from Feltham rail station, is this dynamic new development. A collection of one and two bedroom apartments, each with its own balcony or terrace, Centrum offers a combination of tranquil green space, excellent local amenities and access to speedy transport links into central London.

Feltham is a thriving district with big plans. Investment in the area includes improved transport links and even better retail and leisure facilities, all set to transform the area over the next 15 years. Priority for these homes will be given to people living or working in the London Borough of Hounslow.

This impressive development of 15 brand new two and three bedroom houses and bungalows is located in the heart of the Ribble Valley; an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, well known for scenic countryside, foodie destinations and historic landmarks.

These contemporary homes feature a modern specification, and include two parking spaces and turfed gardens. Petre Wood benefits from excellent transport links to Blackburn, Preston and further afield via good motorway connections and public transport provision.

networkhomessales.co.uk/find-your-new-home/centrum-feltham 02380 820 121

plumlife.co.uk/development/petre-wood 0161 447 5050

*Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £260,000

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £192,500

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 27

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 27

18/05/2021 16:11

MORTGAGES

BARKING RIVERSIDE

FROM £58,750*

Fielders Quarter Fielders Quarter is the latest range of homes at Barking Riverside, east London’s newest town on the Thames. The development consists of one to three bedroom shared ownership apartments, and is one of the earliest opportunities to buy in this 15-year project, transforming a former industrial site along the bank of the River Thames and delivering over 10,000 new homes to Barking. New schools are open now, with Thames Clippers and the new Barking Riverside Overground station coming soon. lqhomes.com/barkingriverside 020 8617 1747 *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £235,000

READING Renaissance

FROM £222,000

Renaissance is a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments.

Benefiting from Reading’s growing status as a business centre and the town’s easy access to London, the homes are ideal for busy families and single professionals alike. Residents looking for convenient access to a range of amenities need look no further than Reading town centre where they will find shopping, dining and leisure opportunities. Renaissance is in an excellent location for convenient connections. Commuters can reach London Paddington in as little as 28 minutes, while for international travel, Heathrow is just a 45-minute drive from the development. bellway.co.uk/new-homes/thames-valley/renaissance 0118 217 5785

HAWLEY, HAMPSHIRE

FROM £645,000

Helios Park

Celebrated as one of the UK’s happiest places to live, Hampshire is the location for this new collection of homes. Situated in the village of Hawley, the homes are surrounded by secluded woodland, yet still within easy reach of Farnborough, Camberley and major transport links for access to London. The detached four bedroom properties, benefit from garages or allocated parking, are a great option for purchasers, especially those with growing families and commuters. bellway.co.uk/new-homes/thames-valley/helios-park 0118 979 8234

CASE STUDY

Saving a suitably sized deposit for a first home is still one of the biggest barriers first time buyers face.

So much so that more than 51,000 property hunters have decided to book a temporary stay at the "Hotel of Mum and Dad" in order to save for a deposit. For 32-year-old Louisa Mulford, taking the decision to end her rental tenancy and move back in with her parents during lockdown meant she was able to save the required deposit she needed to buy her first property for her and her eight-year-old son. By utilising the shared ownership scheme with St. Arthur Homes, Louisa has moved into a stylish two bedroom apartment at the superb waterside development of Chapel Riverside in Southampton.

Having lived in Southampton all her life, Louisa explains what led to her making the decision to move out of her rental property and back in with her parents. “I was renting an older two bedroom maisonette locally. I always had the plan in mind to buy my own property, however it was becoming almost impossible to save money for a deposit while paying to rent somewhere. So, I made the bitter sweet decision to end my tenancy and move back in with my parents. By doing this I knew it would give me the opportunity to really buckle down and save as much money as I could – 14 months later I had saved enough to put a deposit down on a shared ownership property at Chapel Riverside with St. Arthur Homes.

“Like everyone, my ideal would be to buy a property on the open market, but this just wouldn’t be something I would be able to afford.

I had also looked into using Help to Buy, however it wasn’t a viable option for me and I also felt that the properties in this area that are available with Help to Buy tend to come with a slight premium. Initially I was a little resistant to the idea of shared ownership, so I decided to look into it a bit more and soon realised it would be a great way to get on the ladder. I am very happy I made that choice to go ahead, and would certainly recommend it to anyone who is struggling to buy a property and maybe thinks buying somewhere is out of reach or is unsure about shared ownership.”

Louisa continues, “I was able to purchase a 30% share in a two bedroom first floor apartment that has a private balcony I can access from my living area and I also have my own parking space outside the apartment building. The full market value was £230,000 and I put down a deposit of £16,000. I would say that in comparison to renting I am probably paying about the same but I have been able to buy my first home for me and my son which was important to me. I’m really impressed with the specification, the layout is well planned and spacious, and I love my bathroom – it feels like a luxury hotel-style one!

“We are lucky that we have plenty of friends and family that live locally too. Having lived in this area all my life, it’s been nice to see how the area has changed over the years, and it’s a bonus to work nearby at Solent University. We have lots of green space and the waterside is lovely to have close by, plus we also have two parks within a 20-minute walk."

Speaking about her future plans, Louisa says, “While shared ownership has given me the opportunity to buy my first property, I would eventually like to move into a bigger property with my own garden, but I wouldn’t rule out staircasing my share in this apartment as it would still be an investment for my future. I’m really enjoying living here, and looking forward to things opening up again and being able to visit the marina. I can’t wait to have my family and friends over for dinner so they can see my lovely new home.”

28 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 28

18/05/2021 16:11

FTB 24-29 Ed1 95Percent-Mortgages June-July21.indd 29

18/05/2021 16:11

INTERIORS

SHOW STOPPER!

Since we have had to spend more time at home during the pandemic, many first time buyers are thinking very differently about their needs and wants when buying their first dream home We have had to adapt to a new way of living, with space to accommodate a home office, gym and much more.

Interiors have reflected this trend and generally people are looking for a flexible living space which is adaptable and comfortable, but is still on trend and affordable. First time buyers have to work to a budget, but they are still decor enthusiasts and the interior design industry is booming.

This is largely due to Instagram, apps, Pinterest and interior influencers and many first timers will spend hours scrolling through their phones to get hints and tips, the latest colour trends and design ideas so they can create their own special and unique space.

Many first time buyers will visit show suites on new developments and these aspirational homes give people an idea of what their potential property could look like. We asked designers of show homes to highlight a show home they have recently worked on and asked them what influenced their ideas, what the current trends are and asked them to give some ideas especially for first time buyers.

OASIS INTERIOR DESIGN

Woodberry Down show apartment for Notting Hill Genesis Rachel Best, Design Director at Oasis Interior Design Rachel has worked within the interior design world for most of her working life.

Working with a select few high-profile companies, Rachel has honed her skill for design and her eye for flair perfectly. She has a love of colours and blending textures, and the ability to visualise and bring designs to life, exceeding clients’ requirements.

“Working towards and delivering the perfect design for a client’s requirement is my driver. It gives us an enormous sense of pleasure seeing a design transform from concept, to presentation to the client, through to the stunning reality of a successful, on-budget, show home.”

How did you come up with the design for the new show home at Woodberry Down?

We were inspired by the location of Woodberry Down, in particular the

surrounding nature reserve – it is such a unique setting within London. Also, the sense of community in the development and all the trendy local shops and cafes.

The development has a high-end feel yet

30 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 30

18/05/2021 17:06

INTERIORS out of it without doing too much and map out the size of the furniture before you buy.

For the big expensive items, go for contemporary pieces that won’t date and then go mad and express yourself through the use of accessories that can easily be changed – wall art, stylish shelving units and candles are all great pieces. This is an affordable and effective way to enhance the colours you choose, and easily changed.

There’s an interesting resurgence in changing cushions and throws and accessories from a winter set to a summer set. This was very popular mid-century when women were far more likely to be at home full time and it gave them a welcome change to the interior. With so many of us spending more time at home it’s a welcome change of scenery and certainly something to try as summer is around the corner. oasisinteriordesign.co.uk welcoming and trendy, so we wanted to portray that within our interior design.

Why did you choose this particular colour palette?

You just can’t ignore the local reserve and the beautiful reservoirs that envelope Woodberry Down, so this was our inspiration. We chose accents of luxurious greens and sumptuous blues that reflect the overall theme of the scheme, and create a relaxing and tranquil environment.

How do you think the interior design resonates with the target audience for these homes?

Woodberry Down is a great place for those buying first homes, so we wanted to create something that is both stylish, yet understated and contemporary without being too modern. The design incorporates a large sofa perfect for relaxing and chilling out at home, with additional stylish modernist pieces that won’t date. The large dining table provides an inviting entertaining space for friends and family once we’re allowed to do so again, or somewhere to recreate a restaurant experience at home. In the meantime, it’s a fantastic pop-up "office from home" and the large wooden media unit in the living area also reflects the natural aspects of the landscape, yet its style is smart and urban.

What ideas did you have to maximise the available space in the home?

We were keen to showcase how each room can offer more than just one use. By placing a corner desk in bedroom two, we show how you can easily set up a home office area and still enjoy a double bedroom. The living/ kitchen/dining area is spacious and light yet offers different spaces to work, eat or relax.

The large cupboard in the hallway is

dressed to demonstrate how much storage there is, with plenty of room for shoes and coats – you always need extra space for shoes and coats! There’s even a huge floor length mirror to check yourself out before you leave.

Have you had to adapt your designs to incorporate the changing needs of homebuyers (workspace, different zones for relaxing, space to work out/exercise, mood-boosting colours or ways to highlight windows etc)?

Creating space to work from home is important, as so many residents would normally be taking advantage of the fantastic communication links from Woodberry Down into the centre of London. The deep teal green of the sofa is a particularly grounding and relaxing colour when the working day is done. The balcony is an oasis of plants, with plenty of seating to step out of the apartment and enjoy some fresh air. Accessible from both the lounge and the bedroom, it’s a serene way to let the outside in whenever you want to.

Do you have a favourite room in this show home?

We love all the rooms, it’s like having to choose your favourite child! If pushed it would be bedroom one, the wallpaper is so calming yet has such an interesting texture and the bed and headboard just begs to be slept on! The unusual statement light is achingly on trend and the wall-to-wall headboard is the ultimate in aspirational boutique hotel style.

As an interior designer, what would be your top tips to help first time buyers make the most of their new home?

Measure, measure and measure! Really think about the layout, how to get the most

INVESTA

Levett Fields show home for Optivo Homes

Gemma Roberts, Senior Interior Designer at Investa Gemma is a Senior Interior Designer at Investa and has a natural flair for playful, yet luxurious spaces filled with intriguing pieces. Her Interior Architecture degree is evident in the cohesive, considered interiors she creates, with art being an integral focal point of her projects. Gemma draws inspiration from her travels and her passion for beautiful architecture.

What was the inspiration for your design scheme?

The inspiration was heavily influenced by the local area, including the nearby countryside of the Sussex Downs, and cosmopolitan Brighton. I was also inspired by the luxury countryside

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 31

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 31

18/05/2021 17:06

INTERIORS

retreat Soho Farmhouse, as I love the eclectic mix of furniture, woods and patterned prints. Soho House’s hotels and restaurants are always homely and comfortable while still being very designled and stylish.

This inspired me to be creative with colours and styling, while creating a calm and comfortable family home. Overall, the design exudes bold splashes of colour, industrial chic vibes, and classic British countryside style.

Why did you choose the particular colour palette?

I opted for a warm and welcoming colour palette of deep green, teal blue, mustard yellow, and brick red inspired by the colour and vibrancy of nearby Brighton. I then paired these bold wall colours with more neutral and muted furniture and accessories.

I chose this palette, as the combination of the warm tones and the more neutral colours appeal for a family home with a mix of different personalities and tastes.

As an interior designer, how do you go about putting yourself in the shoes of a first time buyer and bringing their dreams to life?

I’m always very conscious of first time buyers’ budgets so try to make sure the

interiors are inspiring but realistic. And when designing a show home I try to imagine who may live there; I think about how they will live in and use the space and how I can furnish it to best reflect this.

For example, I imagined the family in this home to love the outdoors and to be very outgoing, so I represented this in various chosen accessories and artwork to add personality and individuality.

How did you maximise the available space in the home?

In the living room, I wanted to take full advantage of the full-width doors and the excellent view of the garden and surrounding woodland, so positioned the furniture in a way that best showed this off and wouldn’t block any of the view or light.

To maximise space, I balanced the furniture, so it did not overpopulate the room. I added a mirror to every room – a clever trick to help bounce and spread the light, and in the living room and main bedroom I specifically positioned them in a way that reflects the garden and sky, helping that connection with nature.

In the children’s room I was able to maximise the space by including different zones so the child could enjoy their space at different times of the day, including sleeping, studying and dressing areas.

The house has lots of in-built cupboards,

but I was able to increase the storage further by selecting furniture that offered additional shelving or enclosed cupboards and drawers throughout. You can never have too much storage space!

If you had to choose your favourite part of the design, what would it be?

I love the art in the living room – my favourite piece is the vintage illustrated bugs artwork. I saw the family in this home enjoying time together in the garden and nature, so it just seemed the perfect design for them. It also worked perfectly with my colour palette!

I also love the wall-mounted skateboards in the children’s bedroom styled with all the personal items. I enjoyed sourcing these pieces and thinking about what trinkets and accessories a potential buyer and their family might identify with.

Now people are using their homes for

32 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 32

18/05/2021 17:07

INTERIORS

more, (working, exercising, relaxing), what would be your top tips on how to get the most out of the space you have in an apartment?

If the living area of your home is open plan, use furniture and paint to distinguish areas of the room. For example, colour blocking around a desk in the corner of the living room shows it’s a dedicated work area.

It’s important to create a flexible living area too, especially when space is tight as it often is in apartments. Some moveable furniture is always beneficial, such as a lightweight ottoman which doubles up as extra seating when hosting friends or as a coffee table. It can then be completely moved out the way if you want your living area to become your fitness studio!

If your desk needs to be in your bedroom, opt for a desk that has built-in storage so you can pack away your laptop and paperwork when you are finished. This will help to maintain a sense of calm in the bedroom.

What advice would you give to a first time buyer in order to achieve a budget-friendly design in their home?

I recommend keeping the use of wallpaper to a minimum and instead opt for using paint. It’s more cost-effective and you can be just as creative with fun colours and patterns.

I would also recommend trying to create a timeless look that doesn’t rely too much on current trends. With larger items, such as the sofa and the beds, I suggest sticking to neutral colours and use colour and pattern on the walls or in accessories that can be easily changed. This way the big items can always be teamed with different items to create different looks and styles in the future.

It’s also important to decide what the focal point of each room is going to be.

Whether it’s a feature wall, a favourite piece of furniture, or memorable artwork, working out what you want will help you decide where to spend your money.

FURNITURE PACKS If you’re looking to furnish your first home, furniture packs are a great option. They’re tailored for you and your home and can offer you a selection of great furniture pieces from sofas to bedside lamps to get you settled as quickly as possible. It also means all your furniture will arrive at the same time, so no long waits for deliveries, and it’ll all be styled by an interior designer too! For more information, visit investa-london.co.uk and keep your eyes on our social media pages for the launch of our new collections very soon.

FIRST TIME BUYERS ENJOY THE INSTAGRAM EFFECT AT MANOR PLACE DEPOT The fascination with styling our homes is at an all-time high, and homebuyers across the UK are now using social media to keep their followers up to date with their moving plans and home design creations. For young couple David White, 30, and Mark Russell, 32, having been long-term London renters they decided it was time to get on the property ladder together. Through using their own award-winning home design blog Forward Features, they have shared their exciting move into a new home at Manor Place Depot in Elephant and Castle. With the support of Notting Hill Genesis’ shared ownership scheme, David and Mark have successfully purchased a stylish two bedroom apartment located within one of the capital’s most sought-after Zone 1 locations.

First time buyers David and Mark explain, “We started our interiors blog around five years ago, and decided to talk about our experience of living together, how you can make a rented home your own and discussing interior news and design, while running our Instagram account, @forwardfeatures, alongside it. It’s been such a great platform to be able to share our journey, and how we have managed to go from renting to buying a home of our own – our followers really seem to be enjoying seeing how we style and design our home.

"As we both work in interior design we were itching to do our own thing and put our creative stamp on a property. We had been renting together in Peckham in a house share with friends and decided by sharing living costs it would give us the financial flexibility to start saving the money we needed to buy our own place.” PR and Social Media Manager David said, “My goal was to own a home by the age of 30, I had some savings and opened a Help to Buy: ISA. We were sensible but not too strict, we cut back on things like holidays and any big purchases, and after two years we had managed to save our deposit.”

Brand Advocacy Manager Mark continues, “We received an email about Manor Place Depot from Notting Hill Genesis, and we booked into one of the open days and were shown around the marketing suite and viewed the show apartment. We were shown the plans for the whole development and the different apartments we could buy. At this point we still didn’t actually know what we could afford but they had a financial adviser in the marketing suite, so we sat down with her and she was great! As first time buyers we didn’t have any idea about the buying process, and much less about shared ownership, so it was great to have someone we could ask all those obvious questions to and not feel silly. We arrived expecting to just have a look around, and left pretty much knowing we were going to buy there. We were nervous, it is the most expensive thing we are ever going to buy – we couldn’t view the apartment as we would be purchasing off-plan, and some areas of the development were still being built. We talked it through and weighed up the pros and cons, and soon realised that we would probably never have another chance to live in such a

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 33

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 33

18/05/2021 17:07

INTERIORS central location, with a Zone 1 station within walking minutes from us – it just seemed a bit too good to be true.”

Explaining about choosing to use the shared ownership scheme, David says, “We had no preference on using Help to Buy or shared ownership, it all came down to what we could afford. We have a couple of friends who have used shared ownership, so it was good to talk to someone who had been through it. As first time buyers, the whole process can be really confusing, so being able to talk about it gave us a much better understanding and we ended up being able to do something we never thought would be possible. We purchased a 30% share in a two bedroom apartment with a full market value of £570,000, using a 20% deposit. Our monthly mortgage is £587, the rent, service charge and ground rent are £520 so our total monthly outgoings are actually slightly less that what we were paying to rent a one bedroom apartment in Tooting.”

Talking about their new home, David explains, “Having purchased off-plan, when we finally got to see our apartment we were absolutely bowled over! It was lovely and spacious, and we have our own balcony where we can see The Shard, and from our bedroom we can see The London Eye. We have loved making this place our own, but we tend not to rush into purchases and really think about what will work. We save up for pieces we really want and that way it’s much more of an investment – it makes our home that bit more special. We've set up a desk area in the living room which is our main office space, but we also have the bedrooms to escape to should we both be on work calls. Or, when the weather is nice, the balcony makes a great makeshift work area – sun and Skype, what's not to love! Working from home has given us the perfect opportunity to think about new design ideas, share our inspiration on our blog and Instagram and how best to utilise the spaces while we are both working from home – something our followers have really engaged with.”

Mark adds, “Manor Place Depot is such a lovely place, especially the way the railway arches have been incorporated, and even though it is a new build development it works really well with the local area – it feels like ‘old London’. From our bedroom window we can see the old clock towers, and the chimneys from the old swimming baths. We are really excited to see what businesses go into the arches, it would be lovely to see some local retailers go in there. We can easily walk to both Burgess Park and Kennington Park, also Mercato Metropolitano is just down the road, and is full of different places to eat and drink.

There are some really nice historical places nearby too – Pullen Buildings and Gardens is five minutes away, and if we want to get out of the area, London Bridge, Waterloo and Vauxhall are only 20 minutes away by train – we can literally get anywhere at any time of the day or night.”

Sharing their thoughts on the shared ownership scheme, “Without shared ownership, it would have made it much harder for us to buy in London. We're really grateful for the scheme as it meant we could get on the property ladder quicker and with much more ease. Also, going for shared ownership in a new development made the first time buying experience stress-free as there was no chain. We would definitely recommend it to friends (and already have!). A lot of our friends and people we chat to about buying in London think it's impossible, but once you've got that deposit saved, there is no reason you can't do what we've done. We still feel so lucky, we never thought in a million years we would have such a fantastic home.”

Danielle honed her interior design skills with one of the world’s most iconic furniture retailers – working for eight years for IKEA. She was frequently recognised for her talents, winning a trip to Sweden and recognition as co-worker of the month, and being selected for the IKEA management programme.

Since joining the Inko team at Hatch, Danielle has applied her creative flair to the design of unique items of furniture, creating bespoke interiors for private homes, and even developing schemes that are delivered through hundreds of apartments for leading Build to Rent operators. A recent show home design was featured in The Times.

Danielle’s exceptional organisational skills help her to balance the needs of clients and contractors. She gets her inspiration and product knowledge from attending furniture shows across the world, from Shanghai to Paris. When she isn’t designing or travelling she is mum to two young boys – whose jungle-themed bedroom is the envy of their friends.

For more information about Manor Place Depot or any other developments by Notting Hill Genesis, visit manorplacedepot.com or nhgsales.com or call 020 3815 2222

Esther Jackson, Senior Interior Designer at Inko

INKO, THE DESIGN ARM OF HATCH INTERIORS Boulevard show home for Peabody

Danielle Gold, Interior Designer at Inko

TOP TIPS FOR STYLING YOUR HOME ON A BUDGET It’s super easy to decorate well on a budget. When moving in we prioritised a few important buys such as our sofa from Made.com and bed and mattress from Eve. We then scoured different places for our furniture. From go-to’s like IKEA and Habitat to charity shops, markets (Peckham Salvage Yard is fantastic) and even online furniture specialists like Upteriors where we sourced our vintage G Plan sideboard for a fraction of the normal price. We’ve also revamped our hallway from a blank white space to a boutique-hotel feeling entrance. This cost around £100 and includes faux Shaker-style panelling which was easily created using pre-cut MDF strips, a bit of imagination and some dark green paint from Lick. Who says you can’t bring a period feel to a modern new build? For anyone unsure of where to start, we always recommend to just live in the space for a while. Don’t feel like you need to move in and paint straight away – hang art, mount shelves and furnish with what you have. As you live in the space you’ll start to realise what you need or would like to change and the space will slowly evolve around you.

Also, remember that paint can be covered, so be brave and go for it!

David White and Mark Russell Interior design bloggers, @forwardfeatures forwardfeatures.net

Esther Jackson designs stylish interiors for private homes, hotels, whole apartment complexes, show homes and even funky communal spaces such as a games room and doggie parlours, working on the whole

34 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 34

18/05/2021 17:07

INTERIORS

project, from mood boards to final styling.

Esther has worked at Hatch for five years, starting as a junior designer fresh out of university. Her favourite creative trend currently is "artisan" with its combination of handmade ceramics with textured fabrics, wicker baskets and greenery. “I love it for the way it brings together crafts from all over the world,” she says. Esther currently lives in the house that she bought as a first time buyer, she describes her ideal home as, “A converted barn with stable block and exposed brickwork – minus the horses!”

Challenge The brief was to dress a one bedroom show apartment to reflect the target audience at Boulevard, Royal Warwick Square in Kensington and Chelsea. The scheme should also aim to showcase space to work from home, while also offering a charming and elegant feel, showing buyers how to maximise the potential in their home on a first time buyer budget.

How did you come up with the design inspiration for Boulevard?

We designed it to reflect the luxurious surrounding areas of London’s Kensington and Chelsea. Inspiration was drawn from local tourist hotspots such as Kensington Palace, Holland Park and The Memorial Fountain to name a few. The apartment has an exquisite and luxurious feel while also retaining an attractive appeal to the first time buyer market.

We wanted to inject the elegance and sophistication synonymous with this area of London into the apartment by creating a bold entrance hallway, leading into a tranquil living and bedroom space. We introduced bespoke panelling, white marble and gold accents, all of which have been drawn from Leighton House Museum for inspiration. Luxurious wallpapers reflect the natural surroundings, and the addition of greenery really helps to create a relaxing atmosphere throughout. We incorporated a clever but functional area to work from home within the living space.

How did you maximise space?

We wanted to incorporate a working from home station into the design, however we felt that this was our opportunity to be clever and maximise space by building it into the bespoke wall panelling. This created a smart and functional work area that has been tailor-made without compromising too much floor space.

In addition to this, we sourced multifunctional furniture pieces such as the coffee table, that can be adapted to use as a footstool or for additional seating

for entertaining. We also included a large writing desk in the bedroom that can be used as a dressing table also.

As an interior designer, how do you go about putting yourself in the shoes of a first time buyer and bringing that to life?

Having been first time buyers ourselves, we understand the importance of first impressions and how important it is to capture the interest of buyers within those first few moments of entering a property.

As designers, we aim for aspirational but achievable design that buyers can recreate in their own homes. We strive, no matter how small the budget, to create designs that excite, inspire and encourage first time buyers to purchase their first home.

What design trends are you seeing at the moment, and do you think these would be different if we weren’t in a pandemic?

With all the uncertainty in the world, this has definitely impacted the way that people live their lives. As a result, we have found that working from home hubs have become a necessity rather than a "nice to have” feature in our home designs. This needs to be a versatile and functional working environment, yet one that can be disguised for evening and weekend relaxation.

Colour selection is another big influence.

Soft, muted neutrals are paired with bold splashes of colours to create a relaxing and uplifting atmosphere. The neutrals act as a foundation of stability and security, while the brighter hues represent optimism.

If you had to choose your favourite part of the design at Boulevard, what would it be?

The bespoke wall panelling to the living room is our favourite design feature, inspired by the history locked into Leighton

House Museum. Being both decorative and functional, the panelling moulds blend effortlessly into a workspace to create a cosy and usable work corner. The statement wall adds sophistication and dimension to the room as well as being a nifty way to display accessories.

Now people are using their homes for more, (working, exercising, relaxing), what would be your top tips on how to get the most out of the space you have in an apartment?

When it comes to storage, think clever and practical. We all know that hobbies need storage, and that stuff needs a home, whether it be books, paints, yoga equipment etc. Introduce multifunctional furniture pieces like a coffee table, that can double up as a footstool with concealed storage, or high wall shelving that can both display and store your personal belongings. It's about just being practical but also thinking outside the box when it comes to defining areas and creating clean lines.

What advice would you give to a first time buyer in order to achieve a budget-friendly design in their home?

Think smart. Be brave. Opt for a bold paint colour to inject personality throughout your home.

Add detailing to create depth, such as brass beading or decorative panels to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Choose oversized artworks instead of wallpaper to add interest and choose effective accessories that inject colour or draw the eye to an area of a room – things like these are very effective without spending the pennies! hatchinteriors.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 35

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 35

18/05/2021 17:07

INTERIORS

SUNA INTERIOR DESIGN

Ironworks show home for Hill Group.

Rebecca Hunt, Director and Owner, Suna Interior Design

Rebecca Hunt is a Director and Owner of Suna Interior Design and continues to bring her innate creativity to every aspect of the business. If she’s not adding her expertise to the designs heading out of the studio you’ll find her scrutinising the financials, waxing lyrical on the blog or finding another opportunity to shout about their work on each and every platform out there.

Helen Fewster, Director and Owner, Suna Interior Design

Helen Fewster is a Director and Owner of Suna Interior Design and spends much of her time brainstorming schemes and challenging the design process with the team. Her experience, drive and enthusiasm are obvious to all who work with her. Get her talking and she can chew your ear off for hours, whether it’s about a project, the latest product on the market or the last awards she’s judged.

Helen Fewster, Director at Suna Interior Design comments, “We had an amazing opportunity to do something a little bit different at Hill’s Ironworks development in Cambridge. The local area near Mill Road offers a vibrant fusion of vintage furniture shops and a thriving local community that has a strong connection with creativity. We really wanted to echo this in the design, so we purchased items from the local shops that provided vibrant punchy pops of colour and quirky accessories – aiming to create an individual design with a

contemporary/vintage twist to the show home. Reclaimed furniture pieces like the cameras, the records, the mirrors, the dining furniture and the coffee table trunk were all purchased locally and really add a sense of drama and coolness to the home.

There is a growing desire for home designs to be more sustainable and homebuyers are much more conscious of living more environmentally friendly lifestyles – what better way to incorporate this than by upcycling old pre-loved items and giving them a new life for a new generation.”

Rebecca Hunt, Director at Suna Interior Design adds, “When it comes to first time buyers, the secret is to create aspirational and functional living spaces without spending a fortune. As interior designers we are tasked to provide designs that will appeal to the target audience, and for first time buyers it is important to create spaces that are just as inspirational and lavish, yet are still achievable when working to a budget. Using bold punchy colours in one area can bring a sense of effortless style into the home, yet keeping the rest of the room light and bright can help create a sense of space and light, especially within apartments where space can be limited.

"Typography prints are a great and inexpensive way to make a statement on a wall, home accessories that tie in with the chosen colour scheme are also an easy way to add accents of colour throughout, and space-saving furniture that can double up as a desk and table or workspace will help to keep clutter to a minimum. For buyers who are stepping into their first home, it can often be an overwhelming experience where you might not know where to start!

"Colours, paint, wallpaper, accessories, furniture, wall art, pictures... take each one

room by room, assess the space you have and try to get the most out of it. Don’t be afraid to be bold and think about your end result and how you want it to look. Create a mood board, adding things that inspire your design – this will make it easier to see what tones and colours will work well, and perhaps what won’t. Once you start, you will find things do start to fall into place, and best of all you will be able to sit back and admire your own hard work too!”

36 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 36

18/05/2021 17:07

FTB 30-37 Ed2 Interiors June-July21.indd 37

18/05/2021 17:07

HELP TO BUY

STEP ON TO THE PROPERTY LADDER WITH BARRATT HOMES If you are dreaming of buying your first home in any of these stunning parts of the country then Barratt Homes is here to help. These historical and beautiful towns create a wonderful balance of town and country living. You can find out more at Barratt’s virtual event on 19 June – a definite date for the diary!

NORWICH Norwich is the county town of Norfolk and has a population of around 130,000. Its most famous landmark, Norwich Castle, now a museum and gallery, was built by the Normans 900 years ago.

The Romanesque cathedral has the second tallest spire in the UK. Major stores include John Lewis, M&S and Primark, and there are two malls. Norwich Lanes, Cathedral Quarter and Magdalen Street are packed with independent shops, while the awardwinning department store, Jarrold, dates from 1770. Norwich Market is open six days a week. Recognised as the most veganfriendly city in the UK, Norwich has a great range of eateries.

Direct trains run to London Liverpool Street, taking just under two hours, while the A11 provides easy access to Cambridge and the ports of Felixstowe and Harwich are quickly reached by car.

NORWICH

Woodland Heath

FROM £281,500

NORWICH

Cringleford Heights

FROM £299,995

NORFOLK

Wayland Fields, Thetford

FROM £241,995

Woodland Heath is a new collection of two, three and four bedroom homes in Sprowston, a small town on the outskirts of Norwich.

Boasting, shops, restaurants, healthcare and a number of Outstanding and Good Ofstedrated schools, Sprowston is a popular town surrounded by countryside.

Road links are excellent to Ipswich, Norwich and Thetford, while the tiny Salhouse station, three miles away, offers services into Norwich in 12 minutes and to the coastal town of Cromer in less than 40 minutes.

Homes currently available include the threebedroom Maidstone, a semi-detached home with two parking spaces. On the ground floor there’s an open-plan kitchen/diner with French doors leading to the turfed rear garden, while upstairs there’s a main bedroom with en suite, a family bathroom, second double bedroom and a single room.

Set in the rural village of Cringleford, proud winner of the Norfolk Village of the Year competition for the past six years, Cringleford Heights is a brand new development of three and four bedroom homes.

The village location includes an Ofsted-rated Outstanding primary school, shops, healthcare facilities, pubs and a social centre, while being just three miles from Norwich city centre with its railway station for services to London.

Homes include The Moresby, a three bedroom semi-detached house featuring a generous living room leading to a spacious open-plan kitchen/diner, with integrated appliances, and French doors leading to a turfed rear garden. Upstairs, there’s an en suite to the main bedroom, a second double bedroom and a single room, as well as a family bathroom. This home also comes with two parking spaces.

The attractive market town of Watton is home to Wayland Fields. These three and four bedroom homes have the best of the Norfolk countryside on the doorstep. Around 25 miles away from both Norwich and Bury St Edmunds, there is easy access to walking and cycling trails in Thetford Forest and the watery natural wonderland of The Broads is just an hours drive.

With good schools and amenities close by, Wayland Fields offers an excellent standard of living, with large family homes at first time buyer prices. The Simmons is a four bedroom detached home featuring a spacious open-plan kitchen/dining area with French doors leading out to a turfed rear garden, plus a spacious living room on the ground floor. Upstairs, you will find the main bedroom with en suite, a family bathroom, a further double bedroom and two single bedrooms. This home has a garage and two parking spaces.

https://bit.ly/3eHajXi

https://bit.ly/3bo49JK

https://bit.ly/2RUta8A

38

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 38-41 Barratts June-July21.indd 38

18/05/2021 19:39

HELP TO BUY RED LODGE

RED LODGE

FROM £323,995

Red Lodge is a thriving village dating back to 1926 when the first houses were built and is fast becoming a growing community. Just 12 miles away from Bury St Edmunds, an historic cathedral town in Suffolk and home to around 42,000 people which was once the most famous pilgrimage location in the country. Today it is a picturesque town full of independent shops and with a thriving cafe culture.

Around 200 shops line the medieval streets and Georgian squares at the heart of the town, while the twice-weekly market, running for centuries, attracts thousands of shoppers each week. There are big name stores too, in the ultra-modern Arc shopping centre which includes the Apex music and art venue.

The town is full of history to explore, from the magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund to the Theatre Royal, the sole surviving Regency Theatre in the country.

Bury boasts three listings in the Michelin Guide, including the onestarred Pea Porridge with its Mediterranean cuisine. It’s possible to commute to London in less than two hours.

Hunter’s Chase

Hunter’s Chase, in the growing village of Red Lodge, is 90% sold, with a handful of three and four bedroom properties remaining. Nearby Red Lodge Heath is a Site of Special Scientific Interest with rare plants and insects while Thetford Forest Park is a 15-minute drive.

The Norbury, a three bedroom semi-detached house over three storeys, has an open-plan living room with French doors to the garden, plus a separate kitchen. The first floor features two double bedrooms and a bathroom, while the main bedroom, dressing area and en suite occupy the entire second floor. The Norbury includes a garage and two parking spaces. https://bit.ly/3w4PQ4I

CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGE Trumpington Meadows

Trumpington Meadows is an FROM award-winning £324,995 development three miles from Cambridge city centre, set in 148 acres of country park. The railway station is two miles away, while the nearby M11 gives good access to the surrounding area. The development has a primary school and two supermarkets within walking distance, as well as having easy bus links to all the amenities that Cambridge has to offer.

One and two bedroom apartments are available, each with a private parking space and French doors leading on to a balcony. The one bedroom homes have a large bedroom, a kitchen/dining/living area opening on to the balcony and a generously sized bathroom.

Two bedroom homes have a pair of double bedrooms, one with an en suite, plus open-plan living space and a family bathroom. https://bit.ly/3bkxpks

The university city of Cambridge has a population of around 158,000, and the city’s many business parks are full of high-tech companies and cutting edge research institutions, including AI specialist Microsoft Research. There’s plenty of history too – you can explore Cambridge’s ancient university buildings, including the stunning gothic King’s College Chapel, or go punting along the river. Alternatively, enjoy some retail therapy at Cambridge’s daily market, visit its three shopping complexes or explore the quaint shops around the narrow, cobbled streets at the heart of the city.

Cambridge has a vast supply of bars, clubs and pubs, many specialising in real ale, as well as a good range of eateries, from street food to the two-Michelin-starred Midsummer House, where you can eat French cuisine overlooking the River Cam. For commuters, direct trains run to London taking around an hour.

STEP ON TO THE PROPERTY LADDER WITH BARRATT HOMES

Join Barratt Homes’ virtual event to find out all you need to know about the Help to Buy: Equity Loan* and how we can help you buy your first home. We will be showcasing our stunning new homes in Norfolk, Cambridge and Suffolk and an independent financial advisor and solicitor will be on hand to share guidance on your first move. There is also a Q&A session at the end!

An event you won’t want to miss – Saturday 19th June.

Register today 10.30am 2.30pm https://bit.ly/2R6RQKZ https://bit.ly/33F7lMH

*Help to Buy: Equity Loan – Terms and conditions apply. Applicants should seek independent financial advice, and get information and guidance on applying for a Help to Buy: Equity Loan at helptobuy.gov.uk.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 39

FTB 38-41 Barratts June-July21.indd 39

18/05/2021 19:35

FTB 38-39 Barratts June-July21.indd 40

18/05/2021 16:14

FTB 38-39 Barratts June-July21.indd 41

18/05/2021 16:14

LOCATION

HOTspot Reading

5 REASONS WE LOVE… READING

1. Incredible transport links 2. The stunning Reading Abbey 3. Close proximity to water and green spaces 4. An excellent university 5. The world’s longest-running rock festival

Perhaps best known for its annual music festival, the county town of Reading does in fact have plenty to offer its residents all year round. Living and working in the town delivers the experience of urban life, with the added benefits of beautiful countryside and waterside views

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

Located in the Thames Valley in Berkshire, Reading is the largest town (by population) in the United Kingdom with nearly 350,000 residents. Many would argue it should be a city and, in fact, it’s not for want of trying. But what Reading lacks in status, it makes up for in abundance, with those living in the town enjoying a wealth of amenities.

Founded on the banks of the River Kennet, Reading’s history dates back to the eighth century. By medieval times it had become one of the most important locations in Europe thanks to Reading Abbey, built by King Henry I of England. The town went on to become an important trading centre and one of the wealthiest areas in England, made rich through trading cloth and, later, through brewing and its iron works industry. The manufacturing industry expanded in the 19th century when railways were constructed. The town has continued to grow steadily since and remains an important centre of commerce, as home to 13 of the world’s top 30 largest global brands, including Microsoft, Cisco and Pepsico.

Reading is one of the best-connected towns in the UK, with excellent transport links to the capital; perfect for commuters. Trains run from Reading to London Paddington approximately every five minutes, with a fast service taking only 25 minutes. Direct trains to London Waterloo take around an hour and there are direct services to Oxford, Bath, Bristol and Wales too.

Reading West, Tilehurst and Earley train stations also serve the town, with Green Park due to open very soon as part of the Crossrail service.

By road, the M4 motorway skirts around Reading, serving it with three junctions, and linking it to the M25. The M40 and M3

42

are also within easy reach. Congestion can be an issue in the centre of town, but park and ride services are a sensible alternative.

Reading’s bus services are award winning, linking Reading station, business parks and main residential areas with central Reading through a contactless ticketing system.

Cyclists are well-served with the banks of Reading’s waterways providing excellent cycleways, and major investment in extending dedicated cycle routes across the town. The Readybike scheme allows visitors to rent bikes from more than 20 different locations, with most journeys in Reading achievable in 20 minutes by bike.

Reading is proudly multi-cultural, thanks in part to its student population, with more than 150 languages spoken in the town. There is also a large population of Polish residents, with a community that was established over 30 years ago. Employment rates in the town are high and while many residents commute to London for work, there are plenty of excellent employment opportunities more locally; wages in Reading are the highest in the UK outside of the capital.

Reading remains popular with first time buyers looking for an enviable lifestyle with an affordable price tag, and there is a huge choice of housing on offer, including over 5,000 new homes due in the next five years.

The town centre is perfect for those planning to commute or wanting a busy atmosphere while Caversham, just a mile out of Reading, is ideal for those looking to live out of town but with easy access. Earley, on the other hand, is particularly popular with young families, likewise Woodley, the largest suburb in Reading, four miles east of the centre, which is a community in its own right with a bustling high street and plenty of leisure facilities.

OUT AND ABOUT Reading is a major shopping hub boasting the full quota of high street stores and eateries between The Oracle arcade and Broad Street Mall, which punctuate the town’s main pedestrianised shopping street.

Three smaller arcades, the Bristol and West Arcade, the Harris Arcade and The Walk, offer smaller, more specialist shops. Reading has been a Fair Trade Town since 2004, led

by Reading International Solidarity Centre (RISC) which has its own shop and cafe.

There is a street market held in Hosier Street, food markets twice a week at Market Place, and a famers’ market that is held for two days every month in the city centre.

This year we have found ourselves eating al fresco more than ever, but Reading was one step ahead of the game with outdoor dining on the river already a major attraction. Chain favourites include Comptoir Libanais, The Real Greek and Franco Manca; perhaps the closest we will get to international travel this year!

The villages surrounding Reading offer some great dining options too, particularly in the form of traditional British pubs.

Or for something a little less ordinary, Whittington’s

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 42-43 Hotspot-Reading June-July21.indd 42

18/05/2021 16:17

LOCATION

FA C T F I L E

Average property price in Reading* (February 2021) – £305,754 Property breakdown Detached – £633,165 Semi-detached – £390,015 Terraced – £308,048 Flat – £217,748 *According to the Land Registry House Price Index

FA M O U S R E S I D E N T S • Actor Kate Winslet • Comedian Ricky Gervais • Film director and producer David Lean • Actor George Clooney • Radio and TV presenter Jeremy Kyle

Tea Barge on the River Thames, is a must.

Reading has a huge choice of nightlife, including bars and pubs, comedy clubs, live music venues, theatres, and even a casino, all within 500 metres of each other. The town is also host to the Reading Festival, one of Britain’s most popular music festivals, and the Reading Beer Festival, held over the May Day weekend; events enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

For those who are keen to explore the town’s rich history, the ruins of Reading Abbey, founded in 1121, can be found in the centre of town. Similarly, Reading Minster, founded in the seventh century and still an active place of worship, is worth a visit to experience live organ and choir music.

The Reading Museum is home to Victorian art and also has an impressive collection of biscuit tins – a nod to Reading’s past as one of the biggest biscuit producers in the world.

For ancient history, the Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology houses one of the largest collections of Greek ceramics in Britain.

Reading’s enviable location naturally invites an active lifestyle, and where better than on the water with the many rowing or canoeing clubs. Following an extensive renovation, the Grade II listed Thames Lido, with its luxurious pool, spa, restaurant and bar, is a more indulgent highlight. Green spaces are also plentiful in the town; to the west of the Abbey Quarter, the nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, Forbury Gardens, is Reading’s central park and is situated on the Abbey’s former footprint.

The landscaped Forbury Gardens and Caversham Court Gardens are very popular too, particularly in summer.

HOMES ON THE MARKET...

READING

Berkeley Homes at Huntley Wharf

PRIVATE SALE

FROM £275,000

Huntley Wharf is a new landmark scheme in central Reading, offering urban and waterside living at its finest.

It enjoys a prime south-facing location beside the River Kennet and is within walking distance of Reading town centre, Crossrail and train station, with London accessible in just 23 minutes.

Discovery House South is the latest collection of waterfront apartments released at Huntley Wharf, offering a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments and duplexes. Perfectly placed on the south-facing bank of the River Kennet and beside the new Riverside Square, all the apartments are meticulously designed to maximise space and light. Most apartments come with their own outside space, with some enjoying superb views of the river or the Reading skyline.

A show apartment is available for viewing and showcases the high-quality fixtures and fittings available in the homes at Huntley Wharf. Contemporary kitchens with lacquered Shaker-style doors, plus glazed crackle-effect tiled splashbacks, are available in a choice of colour palettes; complemented by compact stone worktops and a range of integrated Bosch appliances.

The spacious bedrooms are fully carpeted and the main bedrooms feature soft grey shaker-style wardrobe doors; meanwhile, Karndean timber effect flooring is included in the kitchen, dining, living area and hallway.

Set in seven acres of landscaped gardens, the scheme offers a choice of high-quality apartments and will feature a central Riverside Square with a host of amenities, including a co-working studio, concierge, proposed nursery, gym, cafe, restaurant and local store. Huntley Wharf will revitalise a key stretch of the River Kennet, providing residents and locals with a well-connected neighbourhood, and a place to enjoy a leisurely moment by the water.

For further information please visit huntleywharf.co.uk or call 0118 321 6560

READING

L&Q at Huntley Wharf

FROM £70,625*

SHARED OWNERSHIP

L&Q, one of the UK’s leading housing associations and developers, is delighted to announce the upcoming launch of a brand new collection of 115 contemporary riverside one and two bedroom apartments and maisonettes at Huntley Wharf.

The first phase of homes, due to launch this summer, will be available to purchase through L&Q’s shared ownership scheme – a rare opportunity to buy a shared ownership property at this stunning riverside development.

An ideal scheme for first time buyers to part-own and part-rent a home, shared ownership is designed as a stepping-stone to ultimately achieve outright ownership. The minimum share you can initially purchase is 25% and the maximum is 75% – paying a mortgage on the part you own and subsidised rent on the remaining share. As your income rises, you can increase the share you own until you own 100%.

The L&Q apartments at Huntley Wharf will be finished to a high-quality specification with contemporary fitted kitchens featuring integrated appliances. Walls will be painted in neutral colours, complemented by Karndean flooring. The majority of homes include private outdoor space in the form of a balcony or terrace. Each home has access to beautifully landscaped podium gardens. Alongside these communal gardens, residents can enjoy the outdoors at the central Riverside Square and the landscaped grounds that will feature lush lawns, a range of colourful flowers and water features throughout the development.

For extra peace of mind, L&Q offers an additional two-year warranty over and above the 10year NHBC warranty.

One bedroom homes cost from £70,625 for a 25% share with a full market value of £282,500 and a minimum deposit of £3,600. Two bedroom homes are from £85,000 for a 25% share with a full market value of £340,000 and a minimum deposit of £4,500.

For further information please visit lqhomes.com/huntleywharf *Based on a 25% share with a full market value of £282,500

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 43

FTB 42-43 Hotspot-Reading June-July21.indd 43

18/05/2021 16:18

AFFORDABLE HOMES

THREE REASONS TO BUY AT THE SCENE THIS SUMMER If you’re travelling near New Cross in Lewisham, this place might be easy to miss – but take another look and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charming new build development emerging in the centre of an established south east London neighbourhood Found in a humble location where Deptford meets New Cross is The Scene, Amersham Vale – a striking, lowstorey collection of homes offering buyers a chance to get on to the property ladder with spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments and duplexes. All just within a short distance of the soon-to-return buzz of Deptford Market Yard and places like The Tapas Room and The Yoga Room, once restrictions ease.

But as well as being in the midst of a sought-after locale, The Scene has a lot to offer first time buyers looking to purchase a new home through shared ownership or Help to Buy. Here are just a few benefits…

1 MORTGAGE REPAYMENTS FROM £927* There’s a healthy amount of renters across London who enjoy the freedom that renting a property gives. But those looking to lay down their roots in Lewisham at The Scene can expect to benefit from estimated monthly mortgage repayments from £927 (average £932.67).

Compared to many local renters who, on average, pay around £1,534 for a two bedroom home in the area, that’s an estimated saving of £601.33 before service charge, bills, and social costs. But the true value comes in being able to call your place your own and invest in a new home.

Brimming with charm, these apartments have been designed with you in mind, providing convenient underfloor heating to maximise the space for furniture, large windows to let natural daylight flood into the open-plan spaces, and statement kitchen finishes that become a feature piece within the home.

Two-storey apartments (duplexes) give that extra feeling of living in a house without actually living in a house; creating even more space to make your mark on with the addition of a staircase and front patio area.

2 THE HOMELY HOMES

3 GREENER GREEN SPACES

Similar to most new build homes, The Scene boasts quality, integrated appliances, modern specifications and thoughtful layouts – but what is unique to this development is the instantaneous homely feeling you get by being surrounded by homes that ooze character.

Opposite a local allotment, buyers at The Scene can be inspired to “go greener” and make the most of open and smaller green spaces nearby. Enjoy growing vegetables, fruit and plants on private balconies, and have fun cooking up a storm with plenty of work surfaces in your new kitchen.

Greenwich Park is a short cycle (and slightly longer stroll) from Amersham Vale where on a sunny day you can enjoy exploring The Rose Gardens, The Wilderness Deer Park, Tennis Centre and Royal Observatory. Or stay local with the recently created Charlottenburg Park that proudly sits beside The Scene and serves as a unifying location between the existing residential streets and the new build homes.

But even with these three reasons to buy at The Scene, there’s so much more to discover here.

So, visit us at the marketing suite Tuesdays to Saturdays, book your appointment by registering your interest at TheScene-SE14.co.uk or call us on 020 7089 1274 *A £927pcm mortgage repayment is based on a property valued at £565,000 and assuming a 5% deposit of £28,250 with a 35-year repayment term based on 1.34% interest rate and a 40% Government loan. Service charge and bills are not included. Service charges on this unit are currently estimated at £179 per month. Rental data source: Dataloft, 2020. Prices correct May 2021.

44 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 44-45 Peabody June-July21.indd 44

18/05/2021 16:20

FTB 44-45 Peabody June-July21.indd 45

18/05/2021 16:20

AFFORDABLE HOMES

QUALITY, LOCATION AND AFFORDABILITY MAKE ASCOT HOUSE THE PERFECT CHOICE Not just another development, Ascot House by Clarion Housing offers something very special for first time buyers, providing high-specification apartments located moments from the high street and railway station and close to country parks and riverside walks. Lynda Clark discovers why this development is so special

EDIT

I visited Ascot House on one of the first days of spring, when the sun felt warm and lifted the spirits. I had already seen the brochure and was very impressed, but I never expected this development to have such a wow factor. It had only taken 35 minutes from London Waterloo and a quick four-minute walk from the station and I was there, enjoying the glorious Surrey location of Staines-upon-Thames.

An impressive new plaza fronts the striking main building, offering an area to relax and unwind. There are 104 studio, one and two bedroom apartments available through shared ownership and each has been cleverly designed to maximise the space with thoughtful layouts designed for today’s very different lifestyle needs.

The specification is outstanding, and each apartment features Amtico flooring, underfloor heating throughout and a wholehouse ventilation system. I loved the floorto-ceiling windows which let lots of natural light into each room and sliding doors open out from the kitchen/living areas on to large timber-decked balconies or paved terraces.

I could imagine sitting outside on a warm summer evening enjoying the view and sipping a cooling drink.

The kitchens come with high-end integrated appliances and the space has been cleverly thought out so it can easily be adapted, whether that is for a functional home-working area or space to entertain friends and family. Bedrooms are spacious and masters come with an en suite shower room. Both the en suite and the main bathroom have a useful heated towel rail, overhead showers plus an additional hand-held shower – who could ask for more? There is plenty of storage space too, with a very large cupboard in the hallway which would happily home all those things you need to stash away out of sight. There is also a video entry system – perfect for added security.

Then the wow factor got even more ticks in the box as I went up to the private residents’ podium garden and to the ninth-

TOP CH ’ S O ★ ★ ★ ICE

floor landscaped roof terrace with fabulous views – perfect places to relax or meet the neighbours. It just couldn’t get any better!

I went for a little stroll to discover the local area. The high street offers an excellent selection of shops, restaurants, cafes, a 24/7 gym and a cinema all on the doorstep. There is a monthly farmers’ market selling fresh local produce, street food and crafts and if you enjoy getting out and about there are lots of lovely green spaces nearby including Colne Valley Park with its moors, woodland, rivers and reservoirs. The river provides a great focus for leisure and sports, with Thameside paths for walking and cycling, as well as boating and rowing. Waterside footpaths take you on a nine-mile scenic trail all the way to Windsor.

Staines-upon-Thames is so well served by travel connections that it makes for a

OR

fast and easy commute to central London.

The A30, M25 and M4 are all within easy reach too, and will connect you to the UK’s motorway network.

If I was a first time buyer I would certainly be snapping up one of these homes – they are quite stunning and in such a perfect location I know that I would be embracing the perfect lifestyle choice – home sweet home!

Prices at Ascot House start from £76,250 for a 25% share with a full market value of £305,000. For more information or to arrange a viewing please visit the website or call 0333 363 8269.

Due to Covid-19, Clarion Housing Group is welcoming viewings by appointment only and adhering to Government guidelines to ensure the safety of potential buyers and staff. ascothousestaines.co.uk

46 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 46-47 Clarion June-July21.indd 46

18/05/2021 16:21

FTB 46-47 Clarion June-July21.indd 47

18/05/2021 16:21

AFFORDABLE HOMES

WHAT IS RENT TO BUY? For millions of people across the country, getting on the property ladder can feel like an impossible dream, with house prices too high and rents too much to leave room for any savings towards a deposit!

But there are options available. Two great schemes are Help to Buy and shared ownership, both of which can massively increase the chances of achieving that homeownership dream.

However, with both schemes you will still need a small deposit. So, what about those who have no deposit and whose rent is too high to save? Why not look out for Rent to Buy. Rent to Buy is a Governmentdesigned scheme that allows working households to rent a home at 20% below the open market rent (intermediate rent).

This can provide you with the opportunity to save for a deposit to go on and purchase your home in the future.

With Rent to Buy, you can live in a high-quality, new build home at intermediate rent (approximately 80% of the open market rent) for up to five years.

During that time, you can save towards a deposit.

Artifex – the new Rent to Buy development on the edge of Manchester from Willo Homes

HOW TO GET ON THE PROPERTY LADDER WITH RENT TO BUY Owning your home is easier with Rent to Buy! Do you dream of owning your own home but are struggling to save a deposit while paying high rental prices?

If so, the Rent to Buy scheme could be the answer for you.

your rental agreement begins, knowing that it will soon be yours to own.

HELPING YOU BUILD UP THE DEPOSIT YOU NEED

WHO IS RENT TO BUY FOR?

With Rent to Buy, you will be able to rent your new home for 80% of the market rate for up to five years. The lower rental payments then give you some breathing room to start building up a deposit. At the end of the rental period, the money that you’ve saved can then be used to help buy your property. Rent to Buy allows you to look forward to starting life in your new home as soon as

Saving for a deposit can be hard work, especially when you need to rent as you save. If you’re a first time buyer or returning to the property market after a relationship has ended, Rent to Buy could help you to become a homeowner. You’ll also need to be currently working or selfemployed and have an intention to buy your home in the future.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE RENTAL PERIOD? At the end of the rental period you can use the money you’ve saved as a deposit to buy your home outright. If you are not quite ready to buy you can continue to rent at full market rent/intermediate rent. Or you can move out and find another property using the money you’ve saved as a deposit.

RENT TO BUY IS A FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN THE PROPERTY AND “TRY BEFORE YOU BUY”!

Your landlord will likely be in touch to discuss your options with you at various points throughout your five-year rental period,; this gives you

the opportunity to discuss the various options for buying your home or ask for advice on applying for a mortgage or the stages of purchasing a property.

Other things to think about: When working out if you can afford to Rent to Buy, remember that as well as your rent payments and saving for your deposit, you will also have to pay for your electricity, gas, water, home insurance and council tax. Plus, you may also have to pay a service charge to look after communal areas around your home.

Most Rent to Buy properties will come unfurnished and without flooring or blinds; this gives you the opportunity to put your own stamp on the property and decide your own decor and style. Your landlord should be able to provide assistance with the flooring, blinds or furniture.

To find out more about Rent to Buy or about the stunning brand new development Artifex, on the edge of Manchester, visit willohomes.co.uk Chris Forrester, Property Sales and Marketing Manager, Willo Homes

48 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 48-49 Salix June-July21.indd 48

18/05/2021 16:22

FTB 48-49 Salix June-July21.indd 49

18/05/2021 16:22

SHARED OWNERSHIP

GET ON THE LADDER WITH SO RESI SO Resi Greenford

While it is encouraging to hear that young people will be financially better off once they get on to the property ladder, we need to ensure that they have the opportunity in the first place to become a homeowner at an accessible cost, as for the vast majority it is simply not possible to save up for such a high deposit.

This is where shared ownership comes into its own, opening the doors to homeownership a little wider, and providing a realistic route on to the property ladder.

With just a 5% deposit required, aspirational first time buyers can purchase a minimum 25% share in a brand new SO Resi home with a deposit starting from just £4,125 at our newly launched SO Resi Greenford development in Ealing. Here, buyers have a choice of one, two and three bedroom apartments ideally located close to Greenford underground station, keeping residents connected to central London for work and play.

And it’s not just London where buyers can find a new home at an attractive cost. At SO Resi Times Square in the commuter town of Welwyn Garden City, deposits start from £2,688. This art decoinspired development has something to suit everyone – from studio apartments to spacious three bedroom duplexes.

Aside from the attractive deposit costs, shared ownership is also a very flexible product. Buyers can simply purchase what they can afford initially, and increase

New research from Halifax has shown that the cost difference between renting and first time homeownership has widened, with buyers saving on average more than £800 per year – although to benefit from this saving, first time buyers will need to find an average deposit of a staggering £58,986¹ their stake in the property as and when their finances allow, if they wish to do so.

We offer our customers access to SO Resi Plus, whereby they can staircase by 1% each year for 15 years at an agreed, fixed price. Since introducing this scheme in 2017 it has proved enormously popular with our buyers, and each year 19% of our SO Resi Times Square

customers staircase to 100% by this method.

In comparison, recent research that we carried out in conjunction with Cambridge University revealed that just 2-3% of owners staircase to 100% of the value of their property each year.

Our 1% staircasing model is a proven success, working to maximise opportunities for first time buyers, so we are pleased that the Government will offer this to all shared owners through its new Affordable Homes Programme that was unveiled in April.

While we are yet to see the finer detail of how this will work, we welcome this reform and look forward to seeing more shared owners benefit from being able to staircase in smaller increments.

Shared ownership is here to stay and has never been more in demand. As house prices continue to spiral, and temporary products like Help to Buy are phased out, we need to collectively work to protect shared ownership and ensure it continues to support those who need it most: predominantly young people, most of whom are on single incomes, who would otherwise be excluded from homeownership. sharedownership.co.uk ¹ thetimes.co.uk/article/cheap-mortgages-make-buying-costless-than-renting-dqbbrl3bg

50 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 50-51 MTVH June-July21.indd 50

18/05/2021 16:23

FTB 50-51 MTVH June-July21.indd 51

18/05/2021 16:23

AFFORDABLE HOMES

A NEW PLACE TO CALL HOME IN EAST LONDON East London has gone through a huge transformation without losing its special charm and is now a real first time buyer hotspot. Notting Hill Genesis has three exciting developments available through shared ownership, in Walthamstow, North Woolwich and Hackney, which certainly tick every box COACHMAKERS’ YARD

WOOLWICH REACH

Coming soon, Coachmakers’ Yard has been built on the site of an old factory formerly named Equipment Works, which was known for building bus and coach engines and airplane parts. There are two buildings offering 48 one, two and three bedroom apartments available through shared ownership.

The wide range of apartment layouts are designed to match today’s lifestyle with modern, contemporary kitchens and boutique-style bathrooms, plus private balconies or terraces, which offer the perfect space to enjoy drinks, coffee or just take in the view. Ideally situated, the nearest underground station is Blackhorse Road on the Victoria Line, which is only five minutes’ walk away.

From there you can reach King’s Cross in 13 minutes and onwards to central London via Oxford Circus in just 18 minutes. The show home is due to open in June and prices are to be announced – you can register your interest at nhgsales.com.

Also coming soon is Woolwich Reach, a 14-storey building perfectly located to give amazing views of the river, the city skyline and adjacent to Royal Victoria Gardens and the athletics ground that neighbours the development.

Woolwich Reach offers one, two and three bedroom apartments and three bedroom townhouses available to buy through shared ownership.

These stunning homes make the most of contemporary styling, with a high specification designed for modern living. All come with underfloor heating and a private balcony or terrace.

The pretty development has lovely communal podium gardens that overlook the river and provides the perfect sanctuary to unwind and relax and enjoy the outdoor space.

Very well connected, the nearest station is King George V DLR, which is only a sevenminute walk away, from where you can reach Bank in under 25 minutes, central London connections at Canning Town

Woolwich Reach

Coachmakers’ Yard

Heron Quarter II

in eight minutes or London City airport in just two minutes. If you want to head south then cross under the river to South Woolwich in just 11 minutes via the Woolwich Ferry foot tunnel.

Prices are to be confirmed and to register your interest go to nhgsales.com.

HERON QUARTER II The latest phase at Heron Quarter in Hackney offers 72 one and two bedroom shared ownership apartments situated in the much sought-after Woodberry Down development.

With a superb setting facing the West Reservoir, which is an exciting sailing lake and also hosts open water swimming, you have the best of all worlds.

This development has been designed as an oasis of calm, and every apartment has been very carefully designed to make the most of natural light and space. Each home offers modern open-plan living, with high-quality fixtures and fittings and a private outdoor space. Outside Heron Quarter you will find a peaceful landscaped courtyard garden with plenty of places to sit and relax or meet the neighbours and there is also a trim trail for those who are keen to keep fit.

It’s located a few minutes’ walk from Manor House underground station with direct links via the Piccadilly Line to

King’s Cross St Pancras, the West End and the City. The development is also just a short walk to Highbury and Islington station, served by the London Overground with fast connections to Shoreditch High Street, Canary Wharf and Stratford.

This area offers numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and independent shops. There are also local markets including Broadway Market, Columbia Road or Victoria Park where you can buy organic produce, fresh flowers, antiques and artisan baked goods. Head to Haringey Green Lanes to find large department stores and take a stroll down Holloway Road where you will find a great selection of vintage shops along with traditional high street favourites. If you love the idea of an early morning jog, a weekend sailing session or just a stroll then Heron Quarter offers endless opportunities to lead an active lifestyle. But, if you prefer to exercise inside, there is a 24-hour gym just a few minutes away.

Prices start from £117,500 for a 25% share with a full market value of £470,000 for a one bedroom apartment. nhgsales.com

52 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 52-53 NHG June-July21.indd 52

18/05/2021 16:24

FTB 52-53 NHG June-July21.indd 53

18/05/2021 16:24

AFFORDABLE HOMES

UNCOVERING WEST LONDON’S NEW GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD Regeneration areas are often some of the best neighbourhoods for first time buyers to get on to the property ladder – especially in London, where more established areas can be out of budget Located in Southall, west London, The Green Quarter is one of west London’s most exciting new property hotspots and Catalyst is helping first time buyers take their first steps toward homeownership here with a range of shared ownership homes at ARRO. Positioned just a 10-minute walk from Southall station on the edge of the Grand Union Canal, The Green Quarter is set to deliver 3,700 new homes and 13 acres of green space.

Enabling buyers to purchase at the start of this exciting project, Catalyst’s range of studio, one and two bedroom apartments at ARRO are putting first time buyers at the heart of this regeneration.

All homes are available through shared ownership – a part-buy part-rent scheme that allows you to purchase a percentage share of a property and pay rent on the remaining portion. The minimum share you can initially purchase is 25%, up to a maximum of 75%. You only need a deposit and mortgage for the share you are purchasing – which makes the scheme a more accessible route on to the property ladder than buying on the open market.

Through shared ownership, homes at ARRO are available with a deposit from just £3,344 – far below London’s six figure average. Providing a further helping hand on to the property ladder, Catalyst is offering a 5% deposit contribution as well as a one-year service charge holiday.

Apartments at ARRO are built with modern living in mind and finished to Catalyst’s customary high standards.

Kitchens feature Commodore cabinetry, stylish yet durable worktops and fully integrated appliances, while bathrooms are finished with contemporary floor and wall tiles. All homes, including every studio apartment, are complete with a balcony or terrace – providing residents with private outdoor space.

The Lanes at Thorn Fields, Houghton Regis

The Printworks, Dunstable

Residents at ARRO will see The Green Quarter built around them. A new park, named Central Gardens, will stretch 500m in length – providing the equivalent of four football pitches worth of green space and over 250 trees. Integrated within the park will be a new playground as well as an impressive water feature flowing the length of Central Gardens.

Within The Green Quarter’s additional 13 acres of green space will be a variety of habitats for wildlife and plants to flourish, designed in partnership with London Wildlife Trust. Residents will be able to learn about the history of the site and the development’s rich ecology via information boards across the park.

Southall’s fantastic transport links make it a great option for commuters into central London. Served by TfL rail, journeys to Ealing Broadway take just five minutes, offering residents direct access to the District and Central Lines, while London

Paddington can be reached in under 20 minutes. Bolstering the area’s already strong transport options, Southall is also on the future Crossrail line – the new route will link the area to Bond Street in 17 minutes and Canary Wharf in just over 30 minutes.

At ARRO, prices start from £66,875 for a 25% share of a studio apartment (full market value £267,500) and one bedroom apartments start from £76,875 for a 25% share (full market value £307,500). Two bedroom apartments start from £99,375 for a 25% share (full market value £397,500). catalyst.homes/development/arro

54 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 54-55 Catalyst June-July21.indd 54

18/05/2021 16:25

FTB 54-55 Catalyst June-July21.indd 55

18/05/2021 16:25

AFFORDABLE HOMES

CANALSIDE LIVING AT EXPLORER’S WHARF

A short hop to the City, but full of its own East End character, Limehouse is one of London’s most historic neighbourhoods. Overlooking the Limehouse Cut canal, one of Newlon’s newest developments, Explorers Wharf, sits at the heart of it all. A selection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, complete with on-site concierge, is now available for shared ownership sale

On a quiet street, just a five-minute walk from the marina at Limehouse Basin, Explorers Wharf brings you contemporary apartments designed around attractive landscape gardens and walkways, adjacent to Limehouse Cut, London’s oldest canal.

Responding to the clean-lined modernism of the building, the contemporary interiors are as refined as they are functional.

Designed for relaxing but also for those days when you choose to work from home, these light-filled apartments impress with their attention to detail.

Open-plan living areas with floor-toceiling windows give views down to the landscaped gardens. The muted colour scheme of these airy living rooms continues into the dining areas, fitted with recessed spotlights and brass fittings. In the modern kitchens, you have high-quality units by Manhattan and appliances by Zanussi. And at the end of the day, indulge and relax in the carefully designed Roca Laura range bathrooms, complete with Bristan chromeplated brassware.

You can also take advantage of the range of facilities on offer, whether it is relaxing on the rooftop garden or getting fit in the on-site gym.

Around your new home you’ll find an eclectic and welcoming neighbourhood. Take a walk around York Square Conservation Area before heading to the picturesque Narrow Street. Here you’ll find charming Georgian terraces, famous pubs and restaurants. Then wander around the Limehouse Basin, once the hub of maritime industry and now a picturesque marina.

With its many waterways, it’s easy to unwind here. Begin the day with a run past the boats and birdlife on the Regent’s Canal.

Or take a cycle ride alongside Limehouse Cut all the way to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Alternatively, pick up the Thames Path through Docklands to Greenwich Park. If you want to explore the social side, then make the most of your new waterside setting and join Tower Hamlets Canoe Club at Shadwell Basin.

The area is also ideal for those who like food, drink and culture. Beside an elegant

Georgian terrace is The Grapes, owned by one of Limehouse’s many artistic residents, actor Sir Ian McKellen. Along the riverside you’ll find Gordon Ramsay’s The Narrow, with a modern British menu and views from a wide-open terrace. There is also a good selection of local favourites tucked away like La Figa, serving Italian classics with a focus on seafood.

Also nearby is The Old Ship, an independently run pub known for its cabaret nights and cream teas. Or meet a younger east London crowd at the Craft Beer Co. before checking the programme at live music venue The Troxy, or Genesis, your local arthouse cinema on the site of a 19th century music hall. Then there are galleries like Armando Seijo, which add to the artistic vibe.

For all your shopping needs, nearby Westfield Stratford has a fantastic selection of big name stores, boutique shops and a wide range of restaurants.

Explorers Wharf is also well located, with

King’s Cross, Oxford Street, Stratford and London City airport all within 20 minutes by public transport.

Prices for a two bedroom apartment start at £111,250 for a 25% share, and £136,250 for a three bedroom home.

For more information and to register your interest in Explorers Wharf, visit the Newlon Living website at newlonliving.org.uk

56 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 56-57 Newlon June-July21.indd 56

18/05/2021 16:26

FTB 56-57 Newlon June-July21.indd 57

18/05/2021 16:26

REAL LIFE

A STRING OF PEARLS! Francesca Eyre moved to the French Alps 30 years ago and set up home in Morzine, where she met her husband Paul and together they established Chilly Powder, a collection of luxury catered and self-catered chalets. But her story starts with a string of pearls...

Francesca was the oldest of four children but very sadly two of her siblings had terminal cystic fibrosis, so her childhood was extremely happy but also very hard.

She left school at 16 and her mother thought it would be great idea if she went to Paris as an au pair. “It was great fun and I learnt to speak French and of course I cooked for the family which I thoroughly enjoyed. While I was there my sister became very ill and it was extremely difficult for us all. After she died, I decided to train as a chef and went to the Alix Gardner school in Dublin and then returned to England and started cooking professionally.”

Tragically, Francesca’s mother was diagnosed with cancer and died at just 47.

“My mother was amazing and we all missed her dreadfully. After she died I always wore her three strings of pearls as it was rather like a security blanket and I would fiddle with them, which made me feel close to her. I had catered for a large wedding in Kent and when I got home I went to touch my pearls and realised they were gone and I had lost them. I was very upset, but one of the waitresses told me that a man who had helped at the wedding would probably never have to work again as he had found and sold some pearls and probably made a fortune! I immediately called him and thankfully got the pearls back, and then his business partner telephoned me to say that they were looking for a chef to go to France for Christmas and the New Year and was I free to go?

“I jumped at the chance and left on Boxing Day for Morzine. I fell in love with the place straight away and decided to stay.

My brother, Nick, was also out there and so was Paul, my future husband. One day Nick came into the Dixie Bar, which was where everyone met up, and asked if anyone could help renovate a bathroom he was working on. Paul offered to help and consequently he and Nick became very good friends.

Later on, Paul told me that when he arrived at the chalet to help with the bathroom

they were mixing Polyfilla in a tea cup and painting the walls with a dustpan and brush!

“I lived on the other side of the valley and Paul used to walk me home, which was lovely of him. He eventually asked me out to dinner. I wasn’t at all interested in any kind of romance but I agreed as long as we could go to a restaurant outside the valley so nobody would see us and get the wrong idea. We were sitting there and they had

the local radio on. Then suddenly I heard it announced that we were having dinner together so the whole village knew and the secrecy was over, so I decided that we could start dating properly. Eventually we decided we wanted to get married but when I made a list of people I wanted to invite we realised that we had no money and no help and it was out of the question. My mother had died two years before and left us with

58 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 58-59 Chilli Powder June-July21.indd 58

18/05/2021 16:27

REAL LIFE a lot of debt. I got around £8,000 and we used that to rent a chalet and start our first business, but obviously it wasn’t enough.

“I think I was really naive, but after my mother died I had moved back to the UK for a while and lived with some family friends who were very astute business people. The husband offered to lend us the money we needed to buy some land in Morzine on the understanding we raised the money to build the hotel. We had no proper business plan and the bank wouldn’t lend us the money we needed. The law in the UK changed around that time and people could invest their money from their pension fund. Then his amazing wife decided to invest her pension and lent us half a million, and then the bank was happy to lend us the other half. Paul had trained as a quantity surveyor and he designed the hotel and chalets, but he told the builders that he was going to check every brick and tile to ensure they had not over ordered and we actually saved around £40,000.”

It was a very long and arduous journey to what Chilly Powder is now, with lots of hurdles along the way. Paul and Francesca both worked very long hours and by this time they had two children with another on the way. “We lived in the most miniscule space and I remember one day having dinner and Paul was standing up, the children were perched on a tiny table and I was sat in the sink! It was pretty crazy but we managed.”

Francesca was working extremely long hours and was constantly surrounded by clients and children and she decided she need some time to herself so she started running. “Somehow it helped me clear my mind and I began taking part in races which I absolutely loved. I was taking on bigger and bigger challenges and I decided to take part in a race which involved cycling from Lands’ End to John O’Groats, which is about 1,400km. I hadn’t been on a bike for some time so decided to enter a 300km, two-day cycle race in London to help me prepare for the bigger challenge ahead – where I was doing very well, until on the second day I had a serious accident.

“I was about 50km from the end and I have no idea what happened but I was found unconscious and had major concussion, a fractured spine and lots of cuts and bruises. It took me about a year to recover and it really has changed my life.

We decided that we needed to live away from the hotel as it was such an intense lifestyle. Our eldest son is a professional ice hockey player and is based in the south of France so I would visit him every couple of weeks and fell in love with Provence. Paul wasn’t that keen and wanted an old gite with a garden in the middle of nowhere, but I wanted to be near a village and people and

“WE LIVED IN THE MOST MINISCULE SPACE AND I REMEMBER ONE DAY HAVING DINNER AND PAUL WAS STANDING UP, THE CHILDREN WERE PERCHED ON A TINY TABLE AND I WAS SAT IN THE SINK! IT WAS PRETTY CRAZY BUT WE MANAGED” I didn’t want a big garden as that involves more work. We just couldn’t find anything we both liked in our budget but eventually an estate agent told us he had found a property in a village which he thought we would like. I walked in and immediately knew it was the house I wanted.

“I lived there during my recovery from the accident and Paul gave me a budget and I furnished it. I must admit my brain wasn’t working as it should have but it’s amazing how well I did. I now run it as a bed and breakfast in the summer and Paul runs the hotel. It works very well and I really have

the best of both worlds. We did eventually get married and have three wonderful children who are all very sporty, and even after my accident I am very grateful for what a wonderful life I have.”

Paul and Francesca were first time buyers when they bought Chilly Powder and although not quite the average buyers they managed to build up a very successful business and have learnt many lessons along the way – and to think it all started with a string of pearls! chillypowder.com

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 59

FTB 58-59 Chilli Powder June-July21.indd 59

18/05/2021 16:27

HELP TO BUY

EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN WATERSIDE AND CITY LIVING ALONG THE SOUTH COAST! Inland Homes’ stunning developments along the south coast present the perfect opportunity for those looking to create a lifestyle in an outstanding waterside or seaside setting while still maintaining the convenience of local amenities, shopping facilities and restaurants. All homes are energy-efficient with low running costs, and are finished to Inland’s high standard with underfloor heating throughout, plus some feature private balconies or terraces

Introducing The Wessex – a spectacular development of luxury one and two bedroom apartments situated just minutes from Bournemouth’s famous Blue Flag beach. Perfect for first time buyers looking to make their move on to the property ladder, each home has been stylishly finished with modern-day lifestyles in mind, including open-plan kitchen/dining/ living areas, generously sized bedrooms and secure underground parking facilities.

Newly launched Hawthorne Court brings the latest collection of homes to this fantastic development, with 59 highquality apartments to choose from. Plus, fully integrated contemporary kitchens come as standard, saving you the hassle and cost. From your brand new home at The Wessex, you can enjoy a life that’s as varied as you wish to make it. Whether it’s a relaxing clifftop stroll, a lazy day on the beach, enjoying a myriad of leisure and entertainment amenities or town centre shopping, you’ll enjoy a fulfilling and enviable lifestyle that’s hard to match anywhere else on the south coast. Homes at The Wessex start from £225,000.

Inland Homes offers two breathtaking waterside developments in the vibrant city of Southampton. Chapel Riverside won the award for Best New Development in

Chapel Riverside

The Wessex

the South at the 2020 First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards, and is situated along the west bank of the River Itchen with a remarkable collection of high-quality one and two bedroom apartments from £190,000. This multi award-winning development is perfect for those looking for excellent inclusions, a contemporary finish and an outstanding location. Southampton city centre and Ocean Village are just minutes away, meaning residents can truly experience the best in riverside and city living. Plus, all residents can enjoy the landscaped communal podium gardens, riverside walkways and unlimited access to an abundance of amenities. Chapel Riverside offers a range of waterfront homes with breathtaking views of the River Itchen, which can be seen from private balconies and through the stylish floor-toceiling windows.

A short distance along the River Itchen is Meridian Waterside, a truly unique waterfront collection of one and two bedroom apartments. With Southampton city centre, a range of amenities and travel links close by, this is a fabulous opportunity for first time buyers to acquire a new home in an outstanding waterside setting.

All homes have been carefully designed and are finished with a high specification throughout. Many of the waterfront homes include a spacious open-plan kitchen/

living area, a private balcony to take in the views and allocated parking. Residents at Meridian Waterside have access to the landscaped communal gardens, plus a 10year LABC warranty is included with every home for peace of mind. With the next release of one and two bedroom apartments coming soon, be sure to register your interest for this highly anticipated launch!

With the Help to Buy: Equity Loan available exclusively for first time buyers, and a range of affordable yet modern homes to choose from, don’t miss your chance to acquire a home at one of these striking new developments. Enquire at Inland Homes today to discover more and book an appointment. Call 01494 546 772 or email sales@inlandhomes.co.uk. inlandhomes.co.uk *Help to Buy: Equity Loan is available for first time buyers only and is subject to eligibility, terms and conditions.

Regional price caps apply. Available on selected plots only. Speak to a sales adviser for further details

60 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 60-61 Inland June-July21.indd 60

18/05/2021 16:29

FTB 60-61 Inland June-July21.indd 61

18/05/2021 16:29

HELP TO BUY

WEST IS BEST FOR LONDON FIRST TIME BUYERS AT CENTRAL SQUARE, EALING Combining a prime location in bustling Ealing with stylish homes and low deposits from just £16,750, Central Square is making homeownership a reality for hopeful buyers in sought-after west London

Central Square is the latest collection of one and two bedroom apartments for sale at Copley W7, developer Broadway Living’s flagship regeneration scheme in leafy Hanwell. Prices start from £335,000 for a one bedroom apartment, with London Help to Buy on offer. The Government scheme can be used to purchase every apartment available. The Government loan is interest-free for five years and you’ll only need a deposit of 5% and a mortgage of 55% at Central Square.

What’s more, shared ownership will launch later this year, widening out access to homeownership for as many first time buyers as possible.

David Jubb, Director Greater London Residential Development at JLL, says, “Ealing is an exciting proposition. This is an up-and-coming area for young buyers to take advantage of lower house prices while still benefiting from living close to the centre of the capital and the opportunity to enjoy potential rises in property values.

This, combined with ongoing regeneration in the area and plenty of green space, means it’s easy to see why Ealing is such a great choice for first time buyers.”

The contemporary apartments feature a high specification and open-plan layout with vast windows that create bright living spaces and offer panoramic views from the higher floors. All kitchens include an integrated washer-dryer, fridge-freezer and dishwasher. Every two bedroom apartment includes an en suite shower room to the main bedroom and in every home the main bedroom also includes built-in wardrobes.

Offering respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, residents will enjoy plenty of outdoor space; each apartment has its own private balcony and there are communal landscaped gardens for all the residents to enjoy. For those who want to explore the surrounding area or find a

62

greener way to get to the office, residents benefit from a bicycle hire membership from Brompton Bikes. Residents will also benefit from a free, three-year membership of the Enterprise Car Club; a car will be stationed at Central Square. In addition, there is some on-road parking available – a rare feature for a London development.

In addition to the latest phase of homes and landscaped gardens at Central Square, Broadway Living – the development arm of Ealing Council – will also deliver a playground, community hub and local shop for day-to-day essentials.

David Colley, Regeneration Manager at Ealing Council, said, “Copley W7 is a proud part of the Ealing community. The launch of Help to Buy at Central Square creates a fantastic opportunity for first time buyers who may think their homeownership dream is out of reach; we are not just creating modern, high-quality new homes, but a reinvigorated, vibrant new place to be.”

Ealing is considered one of the most

attractive neighbourhoods in the capital.

Conveniently located within easy reach of central London, its extensive green space adds a village charm to the bustling high street. A range of shops, bars and restaurants, together with a dynamic new urban quarter, Dickens Yard, which offers lifestyle brands, leisure activities and a weekly artisan market, are located two miles from Central Square.

Castle Bar Park train station is situated at the centre of the Copley W7 development just moments from Central Square, offering direct services to London Paddington in 22 minutes. Copley W7 is just a 10-minute cycle from Ealing Broadway station, which is connected by the Overground, District Line and Central Line services.

The two bedroom show home is available to view by appointment and showcases the design and superb quality of the homes.

For more information or to book a private appointment, call JLL on 020 7087 5111 or visit copleyhanwellw7.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 62-65 Broadway-Living June-July21 (1).indd 62

18/05/2021 16:31

FTB 62-65 Broadway-Living June-July21 (1).indd 63

18/05/2021 16:31

FTB 62-65 Broadway-Living June-July21 (1).indd 64

18/05/2021 16:31

FTB 62-65 Broadway-Living June-July21 (1).indd 65

18/05/2021 16:31

REAL LIFE

Shared ownership: Alfold, Surrey FA C T F I L E

Property: Two bedroom apartment Full market value: £320,000 Share (30%): £96,000 Monthly mortgage payments: £520 Monthly subsidised rent: £580

During the covid crisis higher loan-to-value mortgages have been harder to obtain and those looking to get on to the property ladder are finding alternative routes to homeownership. One couple, Oliver Gregson, 24, and his partner Jessica Burton, 23, decided to use shared ownership to buy their first home, and purchased a 30% share of a two bedroom apartment at SO Resi’s Alfold development in Surrey

K

een to get on to the property ladder the couple, who were living in a rented property in nearby Cranleigh, suddenly found themselves in a position where they needed to find an extra 5% deposit to enable them to purchase their home.

Oliver, who owns a landscaping company, said, “Our mortgage lender frustratingly increased our deposit requirement at the last minute, meaning that we had to find an extra 5% on top of our existing 10% deposit.

Luckily, both of our parents were able to help out, but if they hadn’t been able to, we could very well have lost out on our first home – even though we have passed all of the checks, and can afford to live here.”

Oliver and Jessica had been saving for a house deposit for around six months, and

realised that they could afford to buy just before lockdown was enforced. With extra time on their hands, the couple were able to seriously start looking at shared ownership homes during the lockdown period, and went on a number of viewings once the property market re-opened.

After finding a two bedroom apartment at SO Resi Alfold with a spacious garden, the couple purchased a 30% share with a deposit of £15,000.

Oliver adds, “We were aware of shared ownership, and viewed it as a great way to get on to the property ladder thanks to the lower deposit requirement. Shared ownership was also appealing due to its flexibility – there are no set times for us to staircase, so we can purchase more shares

“WE WERE AWARE OF SHARED OWNERSHIP, AND VIEWED IT AS A GREAT WAY TO GET ON TO THE PROPERTY LADDER THANKS TO THE LOWER DEPOSIT REQUIREMENT” 66

when we are in a position to be able to. At the moment we are taking things as they come, but long term our plan is to staircase to 100% ownership.”

SO Resi Alfold offers a contemporary collection of two bedroom apartments, and two and three bedroom houses, set on the edge of the picturesque Surrey Hills – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The development is surrounded by mature trees, with a children’s play area on site.

All apartments have communal gardens for residents to enjoy, while each house features a landscaped garden to the front and a rear garden. All properties also include allocated parking and cycle storage.

Alfold itself boasts a number of local amenities, with a village store, post office and a local pub, while nearby Cranleigh has regular farmers’ markets, coffee shops, supermarkets, restaurants and pubs.

Guildford is just under 12 miles away and from there London Waterloo can be reached in just 41 minutes. There are also excellent road connections via the A3, which provides access to the M25, central London and the south coast.

WATCH THIS SPACE SO Resi Farnham in leafy Surrey will be launching later this year.

To find out more about the shared ownership homes available in Surrey with SO Resi, call 020 8607 0550 or visit soresi.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 66

18/05/2021 15:05

FOR SALE

FOR SALE THE CREAM OF THE CROP Each month, FTB scours the market for the best starter homes for first time buyers. So, whether you’re after a lovely new pad on a budget, or are hoping for a breath of fresh air, we hope you will enjoy our selection

REAL LIFE

Shared ownership p66 W E S T D R AY T O N , W E S T L O N D O N

HOIC FIRST C

E

CANALSIDE ING LIV ★★★

Affordable homes p68-69

NOTTINGHAM, EAST MIDLANDS

HOIC FIRST C

E

WATERSIDE

WO★N★D★ ER Outside space p70-71

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 67

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 67

18/05/2021 15:05

FOR SALE

AFFORDABLE HOMES FROM £87,000*

W E S T D R AY T O N , W E S T L O N D O N

HOIC FIRST C

E

IDE CANALSG LIVIN ★★★

Waterside Heights The 65 one and two bedroom apartments at Waterside Heights sit alongside the Grand Union Canal, where residents can access miles of walking and cycling routes. On-site facilities will include a canalside cafe, providing the perfect opportunity to sit back and take in the sights, or even work remotely.

Inside, the beautifully designed properties are bright and spacious, with plenty of natural light. When complete, Crossrail trains will take train journey times into London Paddington down to just 20 minutes. Heading west, Reading is a 30-minute trip, while Oxford can be reached in around an hour by rail.

Be West 020 8996 8925 bewest.co.uk *Based on a 30% share of the full market value of £290,000

68

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 68

18/05/2021 15:05

FOR SALE PA R K R O YA L , W E S T L O N D O N

FROM £106,250*

FROM £95,000*

H O U N S L O W, W E S T L O N D O N

Acton Works With communal central and rooftop gardens, private parking and great local amenities, these homes at Acton Works have everything you need. The apartments in Park Royal range from one to three bedrooms and feature bright, open-plan living areas and private balconies or terraces. There’s a supermarket,

restaurants and hospital moments from the door, while a short walk will take you to Harlesden, North Acton or Park Royal tube stations.

The Old Oak regeneration project will see the canalside transformed, along with a new HS2 station.

Network Homes 0344 748 0054 networkhomessales.co.uk

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £425,000

FELTHAM, WEST LONDON

FROM £104,000*

Eden House Located less than a minute’s walk from Hounslow Central tube station, this collection of two bedroom homes is perfect for getting into and around the city – at around 30 minutes from central London. The properties all well-sized, with private balconies, utility rooms and plenty of hallway storage. Open-plan

living areas are light, bright and contemporary. This is a convenient spot, close to the town centre, with several good parks close by, and lovely Twickenham and Richmond within easy reach.

Octavia 020 8354 5500 sharetobuy.com/ developments/2069

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £380,000

ALPERTON, NORTHWEST LONDON

FROM £78,750*

Centrum With views over Longford River and just a few moments from Feltham railway station, this is a well-connected place to be. In this best-of-both-worlds location, residents can commute quickly to London, and retreat peacefully at home. The one and two bedroom apartments are close to the town centre, where you’ll find

supermarkets and eateries, while there are schools, medical centre and other amenities a short walk away. Feltham is undergoing a great deal of regeneration and has exciting new developments drawing homebuyers to the area.

Network Homes 02380 820 121 networkhomessales.co.uk

*Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £260,000

Vista Apartments Good transport links, great shopping and green space are easy to come by in the north west London locale of Alperton, which is fast gaining popularity with first time buyers. This collection of one and two bedroom apartments is moments from the Grand Union Canal – for pretty cycle and walking routes into and out of

London – and a short walk or drive from beautiful Pitshanger Park. Inside, the properties are sleek and stylish, with open-plan living areas that lead to a private balcony or garden.

Octavia 020 8354 5500 sharetobuy.com/ developments/2068

*Based on 25% share of the full market value of £315,000

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 69

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 69

18/05/2021 15:05

FOR SALE

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY NOTTINGHAM, EAST MIDLANDS

HOIC FIRST C

FROM £319,995

E

WATERSIDE

WO★N★D★ ER

The Yacht Club Occupying a tranquil spot on the banks of the River Trent, this exclusive new development is a hit with homebuyers.

The location is excellent: the southfacing apartments have views over the waterways, while The Hook – a vast nature reserve – sits just over the river.

The two and three bedroom properties are spacious, with lots of natural light. Both bedrooms feature en suite bathrooms, while large open-plan living areas lead to a private balcony. The natural surroundings provide a peaceful setting, while Nottingham city centre, for great shopping, dining, amenities and train travel, can be reached in around 20 minutes on foot.

KMRE Group 0115 841 1155 fhpliving.co.uk

70 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 70

18/05/2021 15:05

FOR SALE HOLMEWOOD, CHESTERFIELD

FROM £169,000 FARNBOROUGH, HAMPSHIRE

FROM £435,000

Stephenson Grange Rolling hills and plenty of fresh air are the order of the day at Stephenson Grange, close to the village of Holmewood.

This new development will be home to a range of house styles, with two and three bedroom properties currently available.

The two bedroom houses feature separate kitchen and living room,

BRENTWOOD, ESSEX

with doors to a back garden.

Upstairs there’s an en suite from the master bedroom, as well as a family bathroom. The beautiful Peak District is in easy reach, while the thriving market town of Chesterfield is a 10-minute drive.

Lovell Homes 01246 642 019 lovell.co.uk

FROM £275,000

Sky Plaza Close to a bustling town and pretty countryside, these homes are in a best-of-both location.

These three bedroom houses, perfect for first time buyers are finished to a high standard, with tiled bathrooms, fitted kitchens with integrated applicances, en suite to the master bedroom and French doors from the kitchen

that open to a rear garden. The town centre is a five-minute walk away for shops, bars and restaurants, as well as excellent travel links – trains reach London Waterloo in under 40 minutes.

Bellway 01689 886 400 bellway.co.uk

FROM £85,998*

MILTON KEYNES

Warley HQ Located on the site of the former Ford Motor Company HQ, this new development will soon be home to 330 one, two and three bedroom apartments, including luxury penthouses. On site, residents can access a yoga and gym room, communal gardens with BBQ, and workspace areas. Brentwood town,

idyllic woodlands and lovely Essex countryside are nearby.

Commuters can reach London Liverpool Street in around 40 minutes by train, while the local town has a great selection of shops, salons, eateries and pubs.

Hamptons 01992 663 890 hamptons.co.uk

Saxon Reach These one and two bedroom apartments add to the three and four bedroom houses already available, helping buyers on to the property ladder in this sought-after area of Milton Keynes. Part of the wider Glebe Farm development area, the new residential quarter will be accompanied by a range of new

retail and commercial facilities, including a GP surgery, sports facilities, parks and a primary and secondary school. Once complete, the new phase will form a thriving new district on the outskirts of Milton Keynes.

L&Q lqhomes.com/saxonreach

*Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £214,995

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 71

FTB 66-71 For-Sale June-July21.indd 71

18/05/2021 15:05

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 72

18/05/2021 15:30

VOTE NOW! We take our readers very seriously and want to know your views as first time buyers. That’s why we need you to vote for your favourite developments, housing providers and other categories, listed on the following pages, in our First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards 2021. You could win £250 in IKEA vouchers!

For more details, see page 98

Vote at ftbawards.com

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 73

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST SMALL DEVELOPMENT AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD WILL BE GIVEN TO SMALL DEVELOPMENTS THAT HAVE USED THE BEST DESIGN AND QUALITY TO CREATE DESIRABLE, AFFORDABLE AND INSPIRING ENVIRONMENTS IN WHICH PEOPLE WISH TO SET UP THEIR FIRST HOME. THE AWARD IS FOR SCHEMES OF FEWER THAN 30 HOMES.

DEVELOPING LONDON GROUP | STATION ROAD This small six-unit development in Station Road, Chingford, E4, came from a developer whose early career evolved working on super high-end developments and interior design, which coupled with a grounded family upbringing, motivated an attitude to bring quality finishes and product to more realistically priced homes.

Clayton Lyon’s knowledge of materials and technologies within sustainability and construction allows him to offer more affordable, bespoke design within very spacious homes, targeting entry level prices of the housing market. This development’s tight 3.3m access created a considerable and difficult logistical challenge, coupled with a complex top-down steel frame construction and plunge piling network. This included a large green field discharge rated compliant subterranean concrete storm tank.

The finishes are bespoke, as is the interior design to each apartment. Commitment is given to ensure a large amenity space, which is thoughtfully landscaped. Internal communal areas are finished in the same brick face as the external stock bricks, and the glass balustrading and brushed chrome frame finishes the exterior well.

GECKO HOMES | DUNSTER DRIVE Tucked away in a corner of Flixton in Trafford, Greater Manchester, this small development consists of only four two bedroom semi-detached homes.

Sympathetically built within an established residential area and carefully designed to complement the surrounding neighbouring homes, these homes sit discreetly off Dunster Drive. It’s an enviable location that has successfully managed to carve out a tranquil environment through clever use of space and enjoys uninterrupted views of horses in the fields to its side. There’s not many places where you can enjoy views like these within an urban metropolis. Designed with affordability in mind, these homes are offered to purchase on a shared ownership basis, which allows residents to buy a share of their home, starting from only 40%, and rent the remaining share. These two bedroom homes are targeted at first time buyers and are ideal starter homes for those looking to get on to the property ladder and also perfect for new families looking to start a new chapter in their lives. They come packed with modern features including patio doors that extend into the garden for contemporary living and modern conveniences like the downstairs WC, essential when raising young ones.

INLAND HOMES | VENUE, MAIDENHEAD Comprising just 39 one and two bedroom apartments on Oldfield Road in Maidenhead, Venue is a striking development set over just three levels, within a few minutes’ walk of the town centre, rail station and the River Thames. Planned around the busy lifestyle of young professional singles and couples, each spacious apartment features a sleek, grey Nobilia kitchen with fully integrated appliances, underfloor heating throughout and hyperoptic broadband for increased working from home and streaming in leisure time. Stunning glass-fronted balconies, landscaped communal grounds and secure undercroft parking add to the executive detailing and inspiring environment. Three-quarters of the homes already reserved at Venue have been secured by first time buyers taking advantage of the perfect balance of aspirational location, high specification and enviable design.

One bedroom apartment prices start at just £290,000, rising to £360,000 for a two bedroom apartment.

buyer

74 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 74

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

buyer

MOAT HOMES | CULVERLEY GARDENS

READERS’ AWARDS

Culverley Gardens offers first time buyers the winning combination of exclusively affordable housing, Edwardian-inspired architecture, outdoor spaces for each home and inclusive design for wheelchair users, all in the heart of Catford, London. Designed by award-winning Alan Camp Architects and built by developer Skillcrown, the Moat Homes development repurposed a garden centre into 27 one, two and three bedroom apartments to meet growing housing need. Twenty-five apartments were earmarked for shared ownership, and two provide homes for affordable rent. First time buyers have been delighted with the excellent location, transport links, and features that aren’t often seen in new build apartments, such as large bay windows, private south-facing balconies or gardens for each apartment, and private entrances to ground-floor properties. As Lewisham Council seeks to meet targets of 2,700 new homes in Catford, Culverley Gardens has set a high bar for homes which combine outstanding style, affordability, location and function.

SUSSEX WEALD HOMES | WOODPECKER VIEW Situated within 15 minutes’ walk from Crowborough railway station, Woodpecker View is the transformation of the former council refuse depot. The 0.90-hectare site, located within a residential area, is excellent use of brownfield land. Just 34 homes are set in a cul-de-sac location and are ideal for first time buyers, second steppers or downsizers. This attractive collection of stylish homes of varying designs has been completed considerately, with the only additions needed being window dressings and furniture. Woodpecker View is home to a variety of mature trees and landscaped green spaces, including a natural wildlife buffer; a protected ecological habitat allowing native wildlife, flora and fauna to co-exist and thrive alongside new residents. The perfect combination; a chance to set up home in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by places to walk and enjoy the great outdoors, only an hour’s commute from London.

TAILORED LIVING SOLUTIONS | 87 GREENWICH HIGH ROAD 87 Greenwich High Road comprises 14 one, two and three bedroom apartments, including two spectacular penthouse suites. Each home is at the forefront of design, featuring spacious dual-aspect open-plan layouts, south-facing balconies and a number of high-tech sustainable features, including state-of-the-art Wondrwall home-automation systems in every apartment. The elegant development has a distinctive pillared facade and the wide balconies help to maximise internal light and provide pleasing vistas out across Greenwich. The building is entered via the residents’ entrance, controlled by Bticino visual entry system that can be used from residents’ smartphones. From here, residents can access their post from MySmartBox parcel lockers, a private lift to upper levels and secure bicycle storage.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 75

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 75

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST USE OF INTERACTIVE TOOLS

THIS EXCITING NEW AWARD CATEGORY CELEBRATES THE INTEGRATION OF TECHNOLOGY WITHIN THE HOUSING MARKET. THIS AWARD LOOKS AT HOW A SCHEME OR DEVELOPMENT HAS ENGAGED WITH TECHNOLOGY, MAKING ACCESS OF INFORMATION EASIER FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS. THIS INCLUDES THE USE OF ONLINE VIEWING TOOLS, VIDEO FOOTAGE, AS WELL AS WEBSITES, DIGITAL MARKETING AND DIGITAL BROCHURES.

BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS PLC Barratt Developments is Britain’s largest and best-known housebuilder, and a leader in helping first time buyers get on the housing ladder. Following the coronavirus pandemic and the onset of Government restrictions, Barratt realised that in order to meet the needs of its customers across the country, it had to find a way to give its buyers an opportunity to “view” the homes available in a safe and secure way – from the comfort of their own home. By investing in new interactive tools and virtual viewings, it was able to continue to deliver the first-class customer service its buyers expect, supporting the economy and helping first time buyers and second steppers on to the ladder throughout the pandemic, despite the challenges posed by lockdown restrictions.

BROADWAY LIVING ThinkHub+ – an innovative new online system, pioneered by Ealing Council’s development arm Broadway Living – is revolutionising the way first time buyers access information. This highly interactive customer experience goes far beyond traditional “virtual tour” software, delivering a life-like alternative to a show home visit. Engaging and easy to use, ThinkHub+ provides a detailed interactive tour of every apartment type together with communal spaces, landscaping and other outdoor amenities. Accessible on any device, at any time or place, customers can generate a CGI to keep at any stage of their tour. Designed for Ealing Council by Think BDW, ThinkHub+ was introduced during lockdown in England to support the launch of new homes at Broadway Living’s Copley W7 development in Ealing.

ThinkHub+ is proving popular with first time buyers – especially those buying off-plan, who welcome the reassurance of visualising their specific home – and is leading the future of digital customer experiences.

CATALYST Catalyst’s thirst to do things differently has propelled it into the forefront of digital innovation in the property market. Its “Drive to Digital Strategy” saw the leading housing association use interactive tools to both draw buyers to Catalyst as well as streamline the buying process, with its significant investment in digital technology putting it in prime position to adapt to the challenges of Covid-19. A new digitally optimised website launched in March 2020, presenting Catalyst’s range of developments alongside a mix of educational and news content. Meanwhile, its ground-breaking virtual preview events saw Catalyst continue to launch new developments online throughout 2020, offering first time buyers new opportunities to get on to the property ladder. Capitalising on non-traditional digital marketing tools, such as Sky AdSmart television campaigns, influencer activity and extensive video content, Catalyst managed to engage with more customers than ever before, resulting in a record year for sales.

buyer

76

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 76

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

Sponsored by

buyer

EAST WICK + SWEETWATER

READERS’ AWARDS

East Wick + Sweetwater (EW+S) is a new, residential-led mixed use community in the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Delivered in a joint venture by Places for People and Balfour Beatty Investments, on behalf of London Legacy Development Corporation, EW+S has been designed by a team of leading architects including Sheppard Robson, Studio Egret West, A-Studio and Piercy & Company, alongside landscape architects Fabrik London. Eventually bringing more than 1,800 new homes available through a wide mix of tenure, this major new community will also see new schools, nurseries and community spaces flourish. Phase one includes over 300 homes alongside commercial spaces, new open spaces and a play area. Marketed exclusively via digital channels until the launch of the marketing hub, EW+S is unique in that no printed marketing materials have been created. Instead, the team has focused on a highly interactive, digital user experience to attract purchasers, many of them first time buyers, centered around a three-dimensional virtual world, an engaging website, social media and videos. This approach carries all the way through the selling process – done mostly through e-signing – as well as aftercare with a 24/7 customer portal.

MILLER HOMES Innovation has been and continues to be a key focus for Miller Homes. Our overall digital strategy is designed to enhance the customer journey, underpinning the core value of our business ethos, The Miller Difference, which puts our customers at the heart of everything we do. We recognise that for many buyers, and in particular the first time buyer demographic, technology plays a significant part in their buying decisions and we continually invest and adapt to changing consumer behaviour to ensure we stay relevant and current. We have achieved this in many ways, including the introduction of an app of our My Miller Home customer portal and an online options visualiser, which allows customers to choose their options via the portal, to complement our ground-breaking online reservations system as well as successfully moving many of the key aspects of our customer journey online during 2020.

SWAN HOUSING ASSOCIATION Swan Housing Association is revolutionising new homes by offering future residents of its Beechwood Development in Basildon, Essex, the ability to design their own homes, creating spaces that suit their lifestyles, needs and personal preferences using a specially built online configurator. Such dreams are no longer reserved for the select few who could afford the luxury of planners, architects, interior designers and stylists. Customers can use the interactive tool to design their homes from inside out and top to bottom, before they are built to spec in our modular factory in Basildon and then assembled on site. Once customers select their preferred house type, they can choose external finishes such as roof tiling, doors and windows and set out the internal layout before adding finishes such as sockets and taps. Creating somewhere that they can truly feel at home, all at the click of a button.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 77

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 77

18/05/2021 15:31

E16

BEST FIRST TIME BUYER APARTMENT AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD IS FOR AN APARTMENT SUITABLE FOR A FIRST TIME BUYER, WHICH IS AFFORDABLE AND ALSO OFFERS EXCELLENT DESIGN FLAIR, BOTH INSIDE AND OUT.

BE WEST | WATERSIDE HEIGHTS An impressive collection of 65 shared ownership apartments in immensely wellconnected West Drayton, Waterside Heights by Be West offers first time buyers the very best in apartment living. A place where spacious homes, each with private outside space, are set within attractive private, fully landscaped communal grounds alongside the Grand Union Canal, Waterside Heights offers a chance for first time buyers to put down roots in an increasingly popular west London suburb. Built around fully landscaped communal gardens exclusively for residents, Waterside Heights features larger than average interiors highlighting that apartment living doesn’t have to come at the sacrifice of space. Helping to keep costs down for new homeowners, Waterside Heights offers lower than average service charges – helped by photovoltaic roof panels – and no charge for ground rent. Rare for shared ownership apartments, Waterside Heights is 100% pet friendly – meaning that Waterside Heights offers the perfect home for every member of the family.

CLARION HOUSING | ASCOT HOUSE Defined by affordability, a glorious Surrey location and stunning private and communal outside space featuring podium gardens and a magnificent roof terrace, Ascot House earns its status as an impressive first time buyer residence. Exclusively available through shared ownership and moments away from Staines-uponThames’ bustling high street and train station, the location is complemented with quieter pockets of green. The river provides a great focus for leisure and sports, with scenic Thameside paths for walking and cycling, boating and rowing. Buyers here will also benefit from superb travel links by road, rail and air, connecting them swiftly to central London, Heathrow airport and major motorways. Plot three represents a typical home here, showcasing carefully considered design, flexible living space and a deluxe finish. Paving the way for those wanting to take a step on to the property ladder, the evolving lifestyle needs of today’s first time buyers have been placed at the forefront in this spacious two bedroom apartment.

NOTTING HILL GENESIS | HERON QUARTER AT WOODBERRY DOWN A striking collection of 62 one and two bedroom apartments available to purchase via shared ownership; Heron Quarter at Woodberry Down has proved the perfect choice for those looking to kick-start their homebuying journey. Apartment two is a bright and airy one bedroom property, with an open-plan living space, full-height windows and a large private terrace that clearly demonstrates the lifestyle on offer here. A partnership between Berkeley Homes, Hackney Council and Notting Hill Genesis, Woodberry Down exemplifies serene London living. Boasting a spectacular lakeside setting facing the West Reservoir and panoramic views of the London skyline, Woodberry Down has been designed to benefit its residents’ health and wellbeing. Residents can enjoy an already thriving community and a range of amenities, with the key focal point being the connectivity to a wealth of outside space this development offers. Located just a few minutes walk from Manor House underground station in Zone 2, there is no better place to explore what the city has to offer. Heron Quarter offers a lifestyle where first time buyers can immediately feel at home and discover their very own London oasis.

buyer

78 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 78

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

Sponsored by

FINANCE

buyer

ONE HOUSING | FARRINGDON WALKS

READERS’ AWARDS

Farringdon Walks from One Housing offers aspirational first time buyers an incredible opportunity to purchase an affordable, premium apartment in one of the most exciting new developments in the heart of London. The exceptional flagship site unfolding at the historic Royal Mail Mount Pleasant sorting office boasts design flair from celebrated architectural studios Feilden Clegg Bradley Studio, Wilkinson Eyre, and Allies and Morrison, and covers a six-acre site, providing 681 new homes, over 20,000 sq ft of retail space, and beautifully landscaped public and private open spaces. One Housing’s exclusive one and two bedroom shared ownership apartments have a more generous square footage than average London pads in this location, and are quite simply outstanding value for the quality and size of the apartments and the sensational site proposition.

PEABODY | SOUTHMERE With picturesque views of the tranquil Southmere Lake and overlooking the bustling Cygnet Square, the collection of apartments in Swift Court offers more than just a place to live for first time buyers. These homes offer a place to explore with new shops, leisure, fitness, resident and commercial facilities. A place to be creative, with a regular programme of co-designed activities and community initiatives in place. A place to be connected within a 10-minute walk, where Abbey Wood station is soon to be home to the Elizabeth Line. And a place to relax and escape as there’s nowhere in London with the amount of green spaces and waterways than in Thamesmead. Offering true affordability to first time buyers, the apartments are already 70% sold within one month of launch. The time for Thamesmead to realise its full potential and become London’s New Town has begun.

POCKET LIVING | VARCOE ROAD SE16 At Varcoe Road SE16, Pocket Living has created the ideal first time buyer apartment.

This development of 57 affordable homes in Zone 2 delivers what first time buyers really want from their homes: affordability, a well-designed home near the centre of London and thoughtfully created communal areas. All of these homes are affordable, sold at a discount of 20% from the local market to first time buyers in the area, and are owned 100%. The award-winning Pocket home is designed to be a comfortable, highly functional first home, making the best use of every inch of available space and incorporating features that fit the way London’s first time buyers live. The five communal areas at Varcoe Road have been created to enhance residents’ quality of life, from the co-working room and the double-height sun room to the three landscaped terraces with views over London, these spaces allow residents to meet and encourage a sense of community.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 79

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 79

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST LARGE DEVELOPMENT AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD IS FOR DEVELOPMENTS OF MORE THAN 80 HOMES THAT HAVE USED THE BEST DESIGN AND QUALITY TO CREATE AN AFFORDABLE, DESIRABLE AND INSPIRATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AND THAT HAVE PROVIDED ADDITIONAL FACILITIES TO BENEFIT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND SURROUNDING NEIGHBOURHOODS. THESE HOMES ARE IN LARGE DEVELOPMENTS IN A MIXED-TENURE ENVIRONMENT, OR STAND-ALONE DEVELOPMENTS.

ANDERSON | FAVERSHAM LAKES Faversham Lakes is an impressive and innovative development from leading construction and property company Anderson. Once complete, it will boast 330 two, three, four and five bedroom contemporary homes set in a 100-acre plot that includes a vast country park teaming with wildlife habitats, designated footpaths, reedbeds, lagoons, bird hides and orchards. The scheme expands on the concept of boundless living with houses embracing spacious open-plan living as well as the idea of bringing the outside in. The development presents superb opportunities for first time buyers with 35% affordable housing included along with a range of different size options and price points and access to the Help to Buy scheme. In addition, it offers excellent transport links, education provision and community assets which all tie into the development ethos of “room to grow, room to play and room to live”.

BARRATT DAVID WILSON HOMES | KINGSBROOK Kingsbrook in Aylesbury is a mixed-use development of nearly 2,500 new homes split into three villages. The scheme, by Barratt David Wilson Homes, has nature and wildlife at its heart, with 60% of the land given over to open spaces, including a 250-acre nature reserve, allotments, community orchards, parks and playgrounds.

The developers have worked with the RSPB and Aylesbury Vale District Council to make Kingsbrook the UK’s first fully nature-friendly housing development, and it has achieved Built for Life status. The wide range of one to five bedroom houses on offer provides something for everyone, including one, two and three bedroom homes that are perfect for first time buyers, available with Help to Buy from £250,000.

Kingsbrook has brought great improvements to the area, including an expanded bus service, new cyclepaths and walking trails, new schools, a health centre, community halls and a wide range of leisure and sporting facilities.

BDW – BARRATT AND DAVID WILSON HOMES | LADDEN GARDEN VILLAGE With hundreds of people now living in the thriving new community of Ladden Garden Village outside Bristol, this development is rapidly becoming one of South Gloucestershire’s most sought-after destinations. Almost 2,500 homes will be built at Ladden Garden Village, surrounded by 32 acres of public open space, including three acres of allotments and 4.5 km of cycleways and footpaths. Offering a full range of stylish, contemporary homes from Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, the development sits on the outskirts of the flourishing town of Yate, south west of the Cotswolds, and within easy reach of both Bristol and Bath city centres. In total, 159 first time buyers have already made Ladden Garden Village their home, in more than half (55%) of the homes sold so far.

buyer

80 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 80

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 19:27

Sponsored by

buyer

COUNTRYSIDE | GREENWICH MILLENNIUM VILLAGE

READERS’ AWARDS

Greenwich Millennium Village is a joint venture development by Countryside and Taylor Wimpey, in association with the Mayor of London. Characterised by its green surrounds and set beside the River Thames, the development includes a four-acre Ecology Park and a large open park, known as Southern Park. Greenwich Millennium Village is a beacon for how large, modern, urban development can move beyond the numbers to create places people love. Ultimately it will create more than 2,800 new homes, set within distinct neighbourhoods and designed with landscaped courtyards linked by tree-lined avenues creating a village feel. Already home to a wellestablished community, the development’s village square, Oval Square, has everything a place needs to thrive. There is also the Outstanding Ofsted-rated Millennium Primary school and a nursery for children aged up to four, Millennium Minis.

EAST WICK AND SWEETWATER | EW+S East Wick + Sweetwater (EW+S) is a new, residential-led mixed use community on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Delivered in joint venture by Places for People and Balfour Beatty Investments, on behalf of London Legacy Development Corporation, EW+S has been designed by a team of leading architects including Sheppard Robson, Studio Egret West, A-Studio and Piercy & company, alongside landscape architects Fabrik London. EW+S seeks to create a new community that seamlessly connects Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with Hackney Wick & Fish Island, eventually bringing more than 1,800 homes (through a range of tenures), new green spaces and play areas alongside commercial opportunities for local businesses to thrive. Phase one is almost complete, including over 300 homes (more than 40% of which are affordable) alongside a nursery, commercial spaces and new open spaces. Clarnico Club serves as the beating heart of the new neighbourhood, acting as a multi-purpose social hub with a cafe, flexible event space as well as a marketing hub. As part of phase one, in partnership with Make Shift, EW+S and LLDC have opened Hackney Bridge, an exciting new canalside destination with workspaces, markets, restaurants and bars.

GARDEN CITY HOMES | SCHOLARS FIELDS We believe Garden City Homes based in Wythenshawe, south Manchester, is a developer making a difference, by putting customers and social value at the heart of everything we do. Our £26m Scholars Fields development, part-funded with a £3.3m grant from Homes England, is located in leafy Wythenshawe, eight miles from Manchester city centre. The development comprises 147 new homes, offering 80 for shared ownership, 29 for outright sale and 38 rent to buy apartments. It has an impressive track record with the benefits it has provided to the local community such as training and job opportunities, as well as providing much-needed homes for the area. In total, the development has achieved an impressive £5,422,978 social return on investment, this includes local labour and spend and is 27.7% of the overall project value.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 81

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 81

18/05/2021 15:31

Sponsored by

BEST PARTNERSHIP AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS EXCITING NEW AWARD CATEGORY CELEBRATES A COLLABORATION OF TWO OR MORE COMPANIES WHICH HAVE WORKED TOGETHER TO DELIVER BOTH QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS. IT WILL HIGHLIGHT BEST PRACTICE OF PARTNERSHIP WORKING WITHIN THE HOUSING SECTOR AND CHAMPIONS THE ETHOS OF WORKING TOGETHER TO DELIVER MORE.

COUNTRYSIDE AND L&Q | BEAULIEU Countryside Zest is a 50/50 joint venture between Countryside Properties PLC and L&Q, set up to ensure the successful delivery of Beaulieu – one of the most important new developments in Essex, a sustainable urban expansion for Chelmsford. It was born from a shared vision between the partners, and the result of extensive partnership working with Chelmsford City Council and Highways England. Beaulieu demonstrates what can be achieved through combined strategy, to create a vibrant, integrated community that offers a blend of inspirational architecture, attractive landscaping and public realm, a plethora of amenities, new transport connections including a train station, sports facilities, community gardens and more. The landmark 610-acre development, set in King Henry VIII’s former hunting grounds, brings together quality new homes in a range of styles to suit different tastes, preferences and income levels; one bedroom apartments to six bedroom houses are available through private sale with Help to Buy, shared ownership and rent.

OPTIVO AND WESTERHILL HOMES | FORSTAL MEAD Forstal Mead in Coxheath, Kent, is a collaboration in partnership between Optivo and Westerhill Homes, which is part of Chartway Group. The 210 homes range from two bedroom apartments to five bedroom family homes. There’s an inclusive tenure mix of affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale, meaning we can provide something for every situation and budget. The cross-selling strategy means that buyers interested in a private sale home who aren’t in a position to buy can be given the alternative of shared ownership. The collaboration between the two sales teams ensures customers can find out how the affordable option works and if it’s right for them. We’ve continued the collaborative ethos by using the same branding across tenures. This means the homes are promoted in a way that’s tenure blind, effectively removing biases towards or against a particular type. This way we can truly build a community without a hierarchy.

ORIGIN HOUSING AND HILL | HARROW ONE A partnership between Origin Housing and Hill, Harrow One has completely transformed a disused and derelict area in the heart of Harrow into a place that everyone can be proud of. Alongside 54 homes for shared ownership and 119 for outright sale, the project creates a public plaza with a retail unit, next to Harrow’s shopping area, as well as a brand new church hall. Delivering for first time buyers, this strategic partnership made it possible to deliver more affordable housing, more generous property sizes and a higher specification than initially planned. Despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, homes were completed three months ahead of schedule, meaning eager first time buyers were able to move into their homes quickly. A sought-after scheme, outright sale homes that launched in 2020 are now 95% sold – ahead of targets. Shared ownership homes were 30% sold within weeks of launch, with priority given to Harrow residents.

buyer

82 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 82

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

Sponsored by

BEST LAW FIRM FOR CONVEYANCING

FINANCE

THIS AWARD CELEBRATES LAW FIRMS WITH OUTSTANDING CONVEYANCING PACKAGES FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS.

CAVENDISH LEGAL GROUP Cavendish Legal Group uses a onestop app that puts homebuyers in control of their conveyancing and enables them to track the progress of their case directly from a mobile device. First time buyers fill in an enquiry form and receive an itemised quote within two hours. A member of our specialist onboarding team contacts them the same day and if they wish to proceed they can download the app. Clients receive a welcome pack and we guide them through it explaining everything, such as which documents to provide. All documentation can be uploaded on the app, including ID verification, and we even accept electronic signatures. The app reduces the time it takes for a customer to navigate the paperwork down from an average of three weeks to just 15 minutes.

LAWCOMM SOLICITORS Helping first time buyers, Lawcomm Solicitors is a specialist conveyancing firm that, for over 20 years, has been working throughout the UK with first time buyers of shared ownership and new build homes. We are recommended by many housing associations, developers and mortgage brokers as they recognise that their clients will benefit from friendly, expert legal advice, delivered by solicitors who are experts in this sector. We offer shared ownership, resale, staircasing, re-mortgaging and transfer of equity services to buyers from our housing association partners, plus new build and Help to Buy: Equity Loan services to buyers from private developers.

We are a customer-focused firm, which concentrates on delivering an exemplary service to all the parties involved in these complex transactions, specially first time buyers, who need most assistance with their first purchase. Consequently, we have developed an enviable reputation leading to a stream of recommendations from developers, housing associations and mortgage brokers. • Specialist Knowledge • Fixed Fees • No Move No Fee Policy • Friendly and Experienced Case Handlers • Easy to Complete Digital Documents • Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme Accredited.

DIRECTION LAW Direction Law is one of the most established and largest specialist affordable housing solicitors in the country. In 2020-21 alone, we completed over 3,000 shared ownership purchases. Prospective clients can obtain an instant quotation online or speak to our dedicated new business team who will guide them through the initial stages. While other firms may have conveyancers who deal with a variety of affordable housing cases, we have individual dedicated teams specialising in either new build shared ownership, resale sales and purchases, or new build/Help to Buy respectively; thus ensuring greater expertise. Our aim is to progress cases to exchange and completion as swiftly as possible, not only resulting in a satisfied client, but also ensuring our strong relationships with the many housing associations, developers and specialist financial advisers we are recommended by. Many clients come back time and time again, which is testament to the quality of service we provide.

PRINCE EVANS SOLICITORS LLP Prince Evans Solicitors LLP is a multi discipline law firm based in Ealing. Prince Evans Solicitors LLP New Build Homes and Conveyancing team specialises in all aspects of conveyancing for the first time buyer. We benefit from a particular expertise and understanding of shared ownership and new build property including the Help to Buy shared equity scheme.

The majority of our clients are first time buyers, buying either through the shared ownership or Help to Buy scheme (or taking the crucial next step such as buying additional shares known as staircasing). We offer a personal service ensuring that buyers deal with one conveyancer from instruction through to completion. We also act for housing associations and developers in the sale of new build homes. We help hundreds of first time buyers to take their first steps to homeownership every year and in the past 12 months we have grown even further, assisting many more first time buyers.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 83

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 83

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST SUPPLIER TO THE FTB MARKET AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD GOES TO A SERVICE, COMPANY OR AGENCY THAT SUPPORTS THE FIRST TIME BUYER INDUSTRY. THIS COULD BE A PRODUCT OR SERVICE THAT HELPS TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE THE MESSAGE OF HOMEOWNERSHIP.

AUDIENCE2MEDIA The campaign targeted the first time buyer (FTB) market in a fun/relevant way, increasing Bellway Homes brand perception and providing the target audience with helpful content to assist their buying journey. Social media influencers were split into three categories to provide the upmost insight: Bellway current homeowners, finance/mortgage experts and prospective first time buyers. While this campaign was active, the cladding scandal became a hot topic in the news and across social media. We proactively managed this risk of potential negative backlash by implementing strict targeting rules, as well as ensuring content produced was culturally relevant and scheduled correctly, eliminating any negative sentiments spilling on to the campaign. Additionally, during lockdown with work from home policies, the target audience were provided with guidance on how to own their dream Bellway home and move out of their parents’/rental property, as well as benefit from the Stamp Duty tax holiday and financial support for FTBs.

RED LOFT Undoubtedly an unsung hero of the sector, property consultancy Red Loft has been quietly having a major impact on the lives of first time buyers since it was established in 2002. A highly trusted supplier, the company supports its clients (including housing associations, ALMOs, local authorities and private developers) to build better homes, and market them more effectively. Ultimately, Red Loft helps to raise the bar across the industry via a dual role: as a development consultancy and as a sales agent. As a development consultancy, the organisation works with some of London and the South East’s most important housing projects, helping developers to improve the standard of homes for first time buyers. As a sales agent, the team has this year supported more buyers than ever before. Testament to its winning formula, Red Loft starts this financial year with its largest sales pipeline to date.

METRO FINANCE Metro Finance – We just love shared ownership!

Every month we help around 2,500 potential buyers.

We establish what’s affordable and help achieve the right mortgage.

Simultaneously, we help ensure regulatory requirements are met for our partner housing associations – nearly 100 across the UK. Supporting the sector, we developed affordability chatbots, staircasing chatbots and a series of portals for buyers and housing associations, all of which track and streamline the shared ownership journey. Constantly improving service levels, last year we introduced facial recognition ID checks and Open Banking software to our portals, focused on making it even easier for buyers and housing associations.

Can we do more? Always… working with lenders, regulators, and stakeholders to give shared ownership the positioning it deserves.

SO RESI AGENCY SO Resi, the awardwinning shared ownership brand of Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing, has been at the forefront of helping first time buyers on to the property ladder since it was founded in 2017. Constantly innovating, the brand has just launched a new initiative, SO Resi Agency, which will make it far easier for buyers to find their dream home and will help to accelerate the delivery of more much-needed shared ownership properties on to the market. The aim of SO Resi Agency is to develop teamwork and collaboration with other housing providers, to help match would-be shared owners with properties around the country. SO Resi has noted an ever-increasing demand for shared ownership, with an average of 50,000-60,000 visitors to its website every month, so by allowing other providers to advertise their shared ownership properties on the same platform, SO Resi Agency will offer greater choice to first time buyers.

buyer

84

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 84

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 85

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST SHOW HOME AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD GOES TO THE COMPANY WITH THE BEST SHOW HOME ALLOWING BUYERS TO SEE THE PROPERTY TO ITS MAXIMUM POTENTIAL, GIVING THEM A REALISTIC INSIGHT INTO THEIR NEW HOME.

CATALYST | THE SWITCH Capturing the spirit of an aspirational south west London lifestyle, Catalyst’s show home at The Switch shapes a vision for young and creative Londoners to picture themselves stepping on to the property ladder in a thriving location equidistant between Earlsfield and Wimbledon. The way in which we use our homes has changed over the course of the last year, making flexible spaces more important than ever. The one bedroom show home at The Switch highlights the ways first time buyers can turn a one bedroom home into a versatile, multi-use space tailored to their needs. Clever furniture placement, creative storage solutions and striking design features maximise the interior space, while on-trend accessories and simple touches buyers could replicate themselves create a design that has helped The Switch to become Catalyst’s fastest-selling site in London.

INVESTA FOR OPTIVO | LEVETT FIELDS Working with housing provider Optivo, we were asked to create a sophisticated three bedroom show home on a development of 30 homes in the popular village of Ringmer in Sussex. The development included 22 shared ownership properties and featured a mix of houses and apartments.

We designed an aspirational home for first time buyers, couples and young families to appeal both to a local audience and those looking to move from urban built-up areas to a picturesque countryside setting. Much of our inspiration came from the local area, the Sussex Downs and the nearby city of Brighton.

Our design was heavily influenced by the rural surroundings and we combined this with luxury touches to echo the atmosphere experienced at the popular Soho Farmhouse; creating a calm and comfortable family home that was also affordable and attainable for first time buyers. optivosales.co.uk/developments/levett-fields

MOAT HOMES | CULVERLEY GARDENS Next is one of the most well-loved high street brands known for its quality yet affordable prices – perfect for first time buyers. We teamed up with the interior designers at Next to style our spacious show home at Culverley Gardens situated in the heart of Catford. The development is a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments available for shared ownership from a 25% share. The exciting show apartment was popular with visitors who then used what they had seen as inspiration on how to decorate their own home. From the use of bold coloured featured walls and quirky wallpapers to the clever combination of accessories and textures – the techniques employed brought to life how a stylish home brimming with personality can be created on a budget. Any of the pieces from the show home that customers fell in love with could be purchased directly from the Next website.

buyer

86 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 86

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

buyer

NOTTING HILL GENESIS | THE KILN WORKS

READERS’ AWARDS

Enjoying a prime east London position, halfway between the City and Canary Wharf, is Notting Hill Genesis’ The Kiln Works, where buyers can view a stylish one bedroom show apartment, and gain a tangible idea of what they can expect from a home at this versatile multi-tenure scheme in the heart of Limehouse E1. Designed to blend style with functionality, and with a clear industrial-style influence, the shared ownership show apartment demonstrates Notting Hill Genesis’ discerning attention to detail, with generous internal layouts, a polished specification, and a welcome expanse of private outdoor space. Cleverly dressed by Abode Interiors, this apartment reflects the creativity of the surrounding area, while using a range of materials that would fit well within a first time buyer budget. With a number of green hubs, niche independent retailers and galleries at the adjacent Commercial Road, and popular haunts of Shoreditch, Hoxton, and Brick Lane just a short hop from home, it is easy to see why this scheme appeals to creative professionals who are in search of high-quality, accessible, affordable homes in this exciting area.

ONE HOUSING | MONTMORENCY PARK We know that buying your first home is a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s both exciting and daunting in the same breath, and one of the biggest life decisions people make. At Montmorency Park we wanted to create a show home that felt warm, welcoming and aspirational, while ensuring that it was representative of a first time buyer’s budget for decorating and furnishing a new home. All of the furniture, soft furnishing, paint and accessories were sought through high street retailers or accessible on the open market, meaning customers could recreate the look and feel of the show home with no hidden costs. Our two bedroom show apartment was designed and crafted, echoing the Montmorency Park brand, using soft, earthy colours and abstract, mosaic patterns, enhancing the brand’s storytelling while creating a space that was inspirational, innovative and unique.

OPTIVO | 415 WICK LANE When Optivo was dressing the two bedroom show home at 415 Wick Lane, Hackney, in late 2020, the interior design brief requested consideration of the new factors affecting buyers, in particular more time spent at home. We wanted to create somewhere you’d do your workout in the morning. Where you’d curate your career.

Where you’d lounge and laze. The total price for the fully dressed two bedroom show home came to under £20,000, including fitting costs, decorations, the works.

This made the 415 Wick Lane show home something first time buyers could replicate themselves, or complement using their own personal pieces. Featuring affordable pieces that included materials such as marble, velvet, brass and oak, it was effectively striking the balance between aspiration and affordability. Paired with a unique, modern specification to the finished apartment, the fully dressed show home was perfectly appealing to a discerning Hackney Wick first time buyer.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 87

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 87

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST FIRST TIME BUYER FAMILY HOME AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD IS FOR A FAMILY STARTER HOME WHICH IS AFFORDABLE FOR A FIRST TIME BUYER. IT SHOULD OFFER A COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT, AT A REALISTIC PRICE WHICH IS IDEAL FOR FAMILY LIVING.

COUNTRYSIDE | THE SPIRIT AT BASE Base at Newhall is establishing a distinctive, family friendly neighbourhood on the outskirts of Harlow, Essex, introducing around 700 homes, extensive new green spaces, amenities and public realm. One house type proving popular with families is The Spirit, a three bedroom, twostorey house spanning 844 sq ft. Designed to be as practical and liveable as it is stylish, it provides abundant space for all the family with a contemporary open-plan kitchen and dining room, separate living room and three generous bedrooms.

Providing much-desired outside space, The Spirit boasts a private rear garden, and as part of the wider neighbourhood design, will be within 60m of public greenery or landscaping.

Ranging from £403,000 to £410,000, and with Help to Buy available, The Spirit sits at the heart of this exciting new urban village and presents the perfect place for families looking for more for their money, yet without compromising on style, quality or convenience.

HAYFIELD | THE HATTON AT HAYFIELD PLACE The three bedroom Hatton home is one of Hayfield’s most popular house designs, having recently been delivered at developments in Warwickshire and Bedfordshire. It is priced from £300,000. Featuring 1,185 sq ft of space, the Hatton hits the mark with first time buyers due to its three double bedrooms, beautiful kitchen and integral garage. Those making their first step on to the property ladder can visualise starting a family without needing to move. The kitchen/diner incorporates well thought-out features such as ceiling-high cupboards for a sleek look and additional storage. There is a sitting room across the rear of the property, with double doors leading on to the private garden. Heritage bronze ironmongery and Farrow & Ball paint accompany you as you make your way up the first floor, where the three large bedrooms are found, along with a family bathroom and en suite to the principal bedroom that both feature contemporary ROCA suites.

GENERATOR GROUP | LAUREATE FIELDS With half of all purchases made by first time buyers, The Tate at Laureate Fields is a three bedroom family house with a generously sized rear garden, private driveway and carport. This contemporary home features a luxurious master bedroom with a his-and-hers dressing area and en suite; an open-plan downstairs space stylishly finished with engineered oak flooring; and German-engineered designer kitchens with a full range of integrated Bosch appliances, Silestone composite stone worktops and a wine cooler. The house also benefits from bi-fold doors opening on to the garden from the unique vaulted dining area; oak-veneered doors with chrome handles; and brushed steel sockets and light switches throughout. The development is situated next to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that stretches north from the sea along the banks of the River Deben. Prices start from £399,500 and Help to Buy is available.

MILLWOOD DESIGNER HOMES THE ROLVENDEN, BAKERS FIELD Bakers Field is a coastal collection of 31 highquality two to five bedroom houses in Cliffsend, Kent, offering first time buyers an affordable route into homeownership with the Help to Buy scheme. Nestled close to the idyllic inlet of Pegwell Bay and surrounded by a number of outstanding education options, transport links and leisure facilities, the three bedroom link-detached show home, The Rolvenden, carefully combines a charming, characterful design with adaptable interiors, to create an exceptional family home that does not compromise on style or quality. With an attractive barnstyle exterior design, alongside a stylish yet functional living space, the property delivers an exceptional first time buyer property completed to a superior standard. The home epitomises value for money for a high-quality property in a desirable coastal location, priced at £410,500, and with Help to Buy available to further assist first time buyer families purchase a luxury home with just a 5% deposit.

buyer

88 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

READERS’ AWARDS

Sponsored by

FINANCE

buyer

ONWARD LIVING | THE ASPEN, SYCAMORE GARDENS

READERS’ AWARDS

Sycamore Gardens in Great Sutton, Cheshire, is the perfect location for families looking to lay down roots, boasting highly rated schools on your doorstep, excellent transport links, easy access to some of Cheshire’s top family attractions, and even its very own natural play area. Built to meet the needs of modern-day family living, the detached Aspen home at Sycamore Gardens features four generously sized bedrooms, contemporary bathrooms, a well-proportioned, flexible living space, a good-sized garden, and off-street parking for multiple cars. This part of west Cheshire is considered to be one of the least affordable areas in the North West.

However, The Aspen, which is priced at £106,000 for 40% shared ownership, with a full market value of £265,000, offers local families the opportunity to buy a quality new build home which may have otherwise been outside of reach.

SOUTHERN HOME OWNERSHIP | ROSE GARDEN Rose Garden by Southern Home Ownership is a collection of 62 homes, just outside the leafy village of Cranleigh, Surrey. Offering 22 three and four bedroom houses, the development is ideal for families looking to put down roots in a Surrey town.

With shared ownership homes rarely available in more rural areas, Rose Garden offers a pocket of affordability in one of England’s most expensive counties – with starting prices for a three bedroom house at almost a quarter of the price of an average detached house in the area. Perfect for families, there are two new play areas on site, and once complete, the development will also offer a new pond and a network of footpaths, making travel across the development safer for children.

Designed with family living in mind, homes offer spacious open-plan layouts throughout and ample built-in storage, plus a private turfed garden, garaging and a driveway for multiple cars.

URBAN SPLASH X PLACES FOR PEOPLE | PORT LOOP The regeneration of Port Loop in Birmingham is well underway – creating an exciting new island community ideal for first time buyers with families. For years, this unused urban island – encircled by the Birmingham Canal Old Line and the Birmingham Canal Navigations Main Line – had remained vacant. Joint developers Places for People and Urban Splash, working in partnership with landowners Canal and River Trust and Birmingham City Council, are transforming the space, creating a new, 43-acre waterside neighbourhood filled with more than 1,150 new homes, commercial workspaces, parks, green spaces and community facilities. Sixty homes have already been delivered, with full completion of this new neighbourhood by 2030. Homes at Port Loop have been designed with first time buyers of family homes in mind. Located just 15 minutes’ walk from Birmingham City Centre, Port Loop has a strong sense of freedom and play with its traffic-free green streets, communal gardens, public parks and playgrounds.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 89

BEST OFF-PLAN DEVELOPMENT AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD WILL BE LOOKING TO RECOGNISE A DEVELOPMENT THAT HAS NOT YET BEEN BUILT/COMPLETED BUT OFFERS GREAT POTENTIAL TO FIRST TIME BUYERS.

BARRATT HOMES | LINMERE Barratt Homes at Linmere is an exciting new development in Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire, that will initially deliver 307 new one to four bedroom homes. The development forms part of the wider mixed-use Linmere consortium scheme, which will see 5,150 new homes delivered alongside an extensive range of community facilities, including retail units, schools and open spaces. Barratt launched off-plan in November 2020, with homes already proving popular among first time buyers thanks to the availability of Help to Buy on larger three and four bedroom homes, with prices currently starting from £375,000. A range of one and two bedroom apartments will launch this summer, appealing to young professionals looking to get a foot on to the ladder. To support buyers in their off-plan purchase, Barratt has invested in a range of technology to allow its customers to experience the full potential of Linmere, including street VRs and detailed virtual tours of individual house types.

BE WEST | THE APEX Offering local first time buyers an opportunity to step on to the property market in west London, The Apex is a brand new development by Be West in the heart of Hammersmith and Fulham. A limited collection of 12 two bedroom homes available to buy through shared ownership, the Apex has been architecturally designed with flair and inspiration in a 60s modernist style, in keeping with surrounding Clem Atlee Court. With homes due to complete autumn 2021, Be West has partnered with the Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham to determine those most in need of an affordable route on to the local area’s property ladder. All homes will be sold offplan to local people, living and working in the borough, and the council will select and approve applicants before they are able to purchase. This will ensure that the Apex genuinely meets housing need in the area.

CLARION HOUSING | MERRIELANDS Due for completion in autumn 2021, Merrielands is a first time buyer focused collection of 161 homes featuring studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments available through shared ownership. Situated in the heart of Dagenham, a vibrant and diverse pocket of east London, this superb development is at the centre of an extensive regeneration zone to transform the area and enjoys great transport links into the city. An impressive balance of affordable London living within easy reach of the capital, first time buyers can get on the property ladder with a £2,500 deposit for a 25% share of a studio apartment with a full market value of £200,000. Designed around landscaped communal open spaces, including a podium garden and roof terrace, Merrielands includes over 1,500 sq m of commercial space. Each apartment provides spacious contemporary accommodation that’s as versatile as it is attractive.

Designed for today’s lifestyle requirements, every home has a balcony or terrace.

buyer

90 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 90

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:31

buyer

COUNTRYSIDE | ELEMENTS

READERS’ AWARDS

Elements, a new development in Enfield delivered by Countryside Properties, is an outstanding offering for the first time buyer market. The combination of excellent transportation links, proposed amenities, specification and affordability have proven to be a winning combination that ticks all the right boxes. When complete in 2028, the site will have 993 new homes, new community facilities as well as a residents’ gym and medical centre. Each of the apartments on offer is an excellent choice for the first time buyer demographic thanks to the smart and flexible layout, quality of finishes and sophisticated design; perfect for relaxing and entertaining. With a number of apartment types appealing to the first time buyer market and available with London Help To Buy, Elements is an incredible opportunity to make the first move and secure a home that not only provides an ideal living space, but also a thriving lifestyle and community. Prices for a one bedroom apartment at the scheme start from £340,000.

EAST WICK & SWEETWATER | EW+S East Wick + Sweetwater (EW+S) is a new, residential-led mixed use community in iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Delivered in joint venture by Places for People and Balfour Beatty Investments, on behalf of London Legacy Development Corporation, EW+S has been designed by a team of leading architects including Sheppard Robson, Studio Egret West, A-Studio and Piercy & Company, alongside landscape architects Fabrik London. EW+S seeks to create a new community that seamlessly connects Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with Hackney Wick & Fish Island, eventually bringing more than 1,800 homes, new green spaces and play areas alongside nurseries and an eclectic range of commercial opportunities for local businesses to thrive. It provides a wide range of homes available through a mix of tenures including social and affordable rent, shared ownership, market sale and private rent. Phase one includes over 300 homes (more than 40% of which are affordable) alongside commercial spaces, new open spaces and a play area. Clarnico Club is the beating heart of the new neighbourhood, acting as a multi-purpose social hub with a cafe, flexible event space as well as a marketing hub.

STRAWBERRY STAR | HARLOW QUARTER Harlow Quarter (HQ) is a residential-led mixed-use development with existing planning consent to create 447 residential apartments and over 43,000 sq ft of commercial space in Harlow, situated in the upper Stort Valley at the border between Hertfordshire and London. HQ will consist of studios, one and two bedroom homes across 3-16 storey residential towers, ideal for first time buyers. Residents will enjoy concierge services, cycle storage, and two communal roof gardens. The mixed-use development is located in Harlow town centre, as part of the Harvey Centre, a collection of retail shops, entertainment and other services. It includes 26 studios, 193 one bedroom, 209 two bedroom and 19 three bedroom apartments. HQ gives first time buyers the best of both worlds. With central London only 30 minutes away and the Harlow Enterprise Zone close by, this is a hub for city-minded people. On the other hand there are copious fields and green spaces.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 91

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 91

18/05/2021 15:31

BEST NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOUTH AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD IS FOR THE BEST DEVELOPMENT OF ANY SIZE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND (BELOW BIRMINGHAM). A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKET PLACE, WHERE THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HOMES IS INCREASING, THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN EXCEPTIONAL RANGE OF NEW HOMES THAT STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD, WHILE REMAINING ACCESSIBLE TO FIRST TIME BUYERS.

BDW – BARRATT AND DAVID WILSON HOMES | CANALSIDE @ WICHELSTOWE Creating a brand new vibrant community for Swindon, the Wichelstowe development is one of the largest local authority joint venture agreements in the country and is being delivered by Barratt Developments and Swindon Borough Council. Overlooking the newly restored Wilts and Berks canal to the south of Swindon, Canalside is the first phase of the development offering a range of one and two bedroom apartments and two, three and four bedroom houses from Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes. So far, 37 first time buyers have bought homes, representing 62% of homes sold to date. Help to Buy has played an important role, with 86% of first time buyers using the scheme. A number of buyers have also benefited from Barratt Developments’ discount for NHS workers.

INLAND HOMES | CHAPEL RIVERSIDE Designated as one of seven VIP sites by Southampton City Council and forming part of the regenerative Itchen Riverside project, Chapel Riverside is an exciting nine-acre scheme which will ultimately include a vibrant mix of 520 new one, two and three bedroom apartments, public amenity space, retail space and commercial buildings specifically reserved for marine-based businesses. The completed first three phases of Chapel Riverside herald the transformation of a derelict, underutilised city centre site on the west bank of the River Itchen, into a thriving “destination” district complete with vastly improved flood defences. Sales have remained buoyant through 2020-21, despite the pandemic, with 63 sales between March 2020 and March 2021. In total, 68% of these sales were to first time buyers, keen to take advantage of the high specification, enviable location and exceptional customer service.

L&Q | L&Q AT KIDBROOKE VILLAGE With a strong focus on community, a careful balance of green open space and essential amenities and exceptional quality homes, L&Q at Kidbrooke Village is one of the South’s most impressive new developments. Available through shared ownership, L&Q’s collection of 379 one, two and three bedroom apartments offer first time buyers the chance to be part of the overall Kidbrooke Village development; a major regeneration by Berkeley Homes in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Homes are built to a high standard, with contemporary fittings and fixtures and plenty of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Set in 136 acres of open space, Kidbrooke Village has two parks and a nature reserve, while nearby Pegler Square offers an array of village amenities. On-site Kidbrooke Station offers services into London Bridge in 16 minutes.

buyer

92 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 92

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:32

Sponsored by

buyer

MILLWOOD DESIGNER HOMES | BAKERS FIELD

READERS’ AWARDS

Bakers Field is a coastal collection of 31 beautiful two to five bedroom houses in Cliffsend, Kent. Nestled in the idyllic inlet of Pegwell Bay in a highly desirable and well-connected location along the Kent coastline, the smaller properties offered first time buyers an affordable route into homeownership through the Help to Buy scheme. Each property has been designed to seamlessly blend in with the local Kent architecture, with stylish yet adaptable interiors to accommodate the changing everyday needs of first time buyers. The local community has also been considered in the wider development, providing new facilities such as a bus stop, new cycle links and road crossing points to ensure long-lasting community benefits, and a welcoming environment for first time buyer residents. Bakers Field presents an exceptional collection of new homes in an unrivalled location; a perfect, affordable choice for first time buyers looking for their first home in the south.

NOTTING HILL GENESIS | ROYAL ALBERT WHARF Occupying a dynamic east London Docklands location in the south of England, Royal Albert Wharf by Notting Hill Genesis offers a truly unique residential setting that is forging a thriving new destination and neighbourhood with community at its core. Forming an integral part of the regeneration of London’s Royal Docks, the development spans across multiple phases, delivering a diverse selection of homes that reflect the historical dockside vernacular. The current phase includes one, two and three bedroom apartments and duplexes available to purchase for private sale with London Help to Buy and shared ownership – perfectly catering for first time buyers in London who want affordability balanced with space, style, quality and convenience in contemporary surroundings. Following the successful first phase, the well-received second phase of the scheme brings a further 468 new homes and 2,200 sq m of commercial and retail space. New public spaces and riverside walkways are intertwined with stunning green landscaped areas, seamlessly integrating into what is rapidly becoming an established and vibrant new quarter in the capital.

PEABODY | SOUTHMERE With a 30-year vision, Peabody’s regeneration plans for Thamesmead are undoubtedly its most ambitious and notable to date. Southmere sits within the heart of Thamesmead; a new, much-needed, mixed-use development of 534 homes benefiting from a lakeside setting. A total of 45% of the homes are affordable, suiting the housing needs of a community in demand of financially viable options to homeownership. As well as creating new homes for existing and new residents, Peabody is taking a “whole place” approach to invigorate life at South Thamesmead with a unique cultural and commercial offer, new shops and amenities – providing jobs, a new public square, a library and flexible community facilities, and outdoor activity spaces. The time for Thamesmead to realise its full potential and become London’s New Town has begun.

buyer

READERS’ AWARDS

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 93

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 93

18/05/2021 15:32

Sponsored by

BEST NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE NORTH THIS AWARD IS FOR THE BEST DEVELOPMENT OF ANY SIZE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND (BIRMINGHAM AND ABOVE), AN AREA OF THE COUNTRY WHERE HOUSEBUILDING IS INCREASING AND OFFERS A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKET PLACE. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN EXCEPTIONAL RANGE OF NEW HOMES THAT STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD, WHILE REMAINING ACCESSIBLE TO FIRST TIME BUYERS.

GECKO HOMES | CENTRAL VIEW Central View is an eclectic development of 13 homes, varying in size, bedrooms and house types. Built in Partington, in the popular borough of Trafford, Greater Manchester, house types include classic three bedroom semi-detached houses, traditional two-up-two-down terraced houses and three bedroom, three-storey houses with master bedrooms boasting en suites. All homes come with large family friendly gardens and are designed for open-plan family living with modern conveniences like an essential downstairs WC and open-plan kitchen/dining/living spaces. The contemporary finish to the homes includes full-height windows, sleek grey roofing and carefully crafted brickwork to the facades.

All homes in the development are available to buy through shared ownership, providing excellent affordability and offering great flexibility to new homeowners looking to get on to the property market and buy a home who would not be able to do so otherwise.

ONWARD LIVING | ELIZABETHAN TERRACE Elizabethan Terrace is a modern development of 15 affordable homes in Whitefield, Greater Manchester, exclusively available for shared ownership. Built on the site of the former disused Elizabethan pub, which local residents branded an “eyesore”, the development has provided much-needed new build homes and helped to regenerate the area, which was largely made up of former council homes that were originally built in the 1950s. The mixture of two and three bedroom properties, priced from £54,775 for a 35% share, have also given first time buyers in the area the opportunity to buy a home in the highly desirable area of north Manchester, where other parts of Whitefield and neighbouring Prestwich command high property values which would otherwise be out of reach for many purchasers.

PLUMLIFE | BELFIELD MILL, ROCHDALE A brand new development located in Rochdale, Belfield Mill, is the first development from Plumlife consisting exclusively of shared ownership homes, demonstrating the strength of the product in the current marketplace. Local knowledge of the scheme is building and Plumlife is experiencing excellent demand for the 28 three and four bedroom detached and semi-detached homes on offer.

Homeowners will benefit from transport links to Manchester city centre, as well as proximity to local rural beauty spots such as nearby Hollingworth Lake. The desirable location, combined with modern design features and quality specification, has resulted in high levels of demand, with reservations being taken off-plan ahead of handovers in the summer.

The generous garden sizes and well thought-out interiors ensure that these homes meet the needs of our customers who, more than ever before, require spacious and flexible living as well as a peaceful retreat to escape to at the end of the day.

buyer

94

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 94

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:32

Sponsored by

JUDGES UNSUNG STAR

FINANCE

THIS AWARD FOR WILL RECOGNISE THE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION MADE BY ONE INDIVIDUAL TO THE FIRST TIME BUYER MARKET. THE AWARD WILL CELEBRATE THE WORK OF AN INDIVIDUAL WHO THROUGH THEIR INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO THE MARKET HAS CONTINUALLY HELPED FIRST TIME BUYERS OVERCOME THE USUAL CHALLENGES FACED IN THIS SECTOR. THIS AWARD WILL BE JUDGED BY THE JUDGES ONLY.

JADE SKATES | RED LOFT Supporting the success of leading property consultancy Red Loft, Sales and Marketing Manager Jade Skates works tirelessly marketing and advising on sales strategy for a huge range of developments for a breadth of developers and housing associations across London. Exemplifying Red Loft’s values and high standards, Jade is passionate about the sector, and has helped hundreds of buyers find their dream home.

Currently, Jade is spearheading one of Red Loft’s most important new partnerships; launching the first development for Sixty Bricks, the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s wholly-owned housing development company, where she has already secured double the target number of reservations. Feedback from Jade’s clients and colleagues is consistently excellent – praising Jade’s unwavering diligence and determination. Outside of her role, Jade is personally dedicated to the affordable housing industry, and has spoken on several prestigious “Ask the Expert” panels at the London Home Show.

JAMIE FRASER | CATALYST A passionate and driven Sales Executive, Jamie Fraser joined Catalyst in July 2019 and has quickly become a rising star in the team. Jamie goes above and beyond to build a sincere and genuine rapport with buyers, supporting them throughout the buying process, and empowering them with the knowledge and confidence needed to make such an important purchase.

His contribution was particularly noteworthy in the first lockdown, when Jamie was contactable by customers 24/7, to reassure them during this unsettling period, and helping them move in safely. Jamie has helped countless first time buyers secure their dream home. He co-presented the virtual preview event for The Switch, Catalyst’s new Wimbledon development, which was attended by over 250 keen buyers, and has helped to secure 35 sales within three months of launch. His friendly nature has contributed immensely in building a collaborative relationship with Galliard, Catalyst’s joint venture partner at The Switch, working alongside one another in the marketing suite.

JADE TURNSTILL | SHARE TO BUY Already renowned as a young star in the affordable housing industry, at just 29 years old Jade Turnstill is forging the way for first time buyers through her work for the UK’s premier online destination for shared ownership properties, Share to Buy. Jade is always looking for new and innovative ways to support hopeful buyers, singlehandedly producing and starring in a series of informative “jargon busting” videos, which have been viewed over 2,500,000 times since their inception. In the height of lockdown, Jade also became the face of Share to Buy’s new regular webinar series, and is now working relentlessly to deliver the first ever Virtual London Home Show. Share to Buy has experienced consecutive years of growth since Jade joined the team, and her input and expertise helped Share to Buy achieve a record year across all its metrics in 2020.

JULIE SHAIL | SO RESI Julie Shail’s irrepressible enthusiasm for shared ownership is catching – whether it’s a picture of a new development on Instagram, an inspirational post on Facebook or chatting to homebuyers at a show – Julie always has a positive, optimistic message for first time buyers keen to get on the housing ladder. For 28 years, Julie has worked for Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (and its pre-merger predecessor Metropolitan), in a career that has taken her from Marketing Assistant through to her current leading role as Head of Sales. Managing both market sale and shared ownership through MTVH’s SO Resi brand, she is at the forefront of developing and promoting shared ownership initiatives, such as the new SO Resi Agency, as well as being a powerful ambassador for the brand, reaching out to first time buyers through shows, events, webinars and social media.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 95

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 95

18/05/2021 15:32

Sponsored by

PRIVATE DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR AFFORDABLE HOMES

THIS AWARD WILL FOCUS NOT ONLY ON THE DESIGN AND QUALITY OF THE PROPERTIES BUILT, BUT ALSO ON ALL ASPECTS OF THE DEVELOPER’S PERFORMANCE.

BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS PLC Barratt Developments is Britain’s largest and best-known housebuilder, and the only major national housebuilder to achieve the maximum 5 Star rating in the HBF New Homes Customer Satisfaction Survey for a record 12 years in a row. Through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, Barratt has continued to deliver the high standard of service its buyers have come to expect, while maintaining its focus on health and safety, quality and sustainability. With the help of schemes such as the Armed Forces Contribution scheme and NHS Deposit Contribution scheme, it has made it possible for thousands of first time buyers to afford to buy five-star quality properties, at a time when staying in your home has been the focal point of so much of our lives.

INLAND HOMES Inland Homes is a leading developer in the South and South East of England, building affordably priced properties of exceptional quality which people are proud to call home. Each development is designed to suit modern lifestyles – individually tailored to the location, with carefully considered open spaces, landscaping, play areas and other amenities vital in creating a community that works. With Help to Buy available on a wide range of apartments and houses, Inland has helped first time buyers take their first step on to the ladder. Particularly successful developments with the first time buyer market include Centre Square in High Wycombe, and both Chapel Riverside and Meridian Waterside in Southampton.

We take pride in ensuring the smoothness of the customer journey, from initial contact with our knowledgeable sales staff, all through the buying process to final completion. Feedback is used to improve the design of homes, with layouts continually reviewed to suit customers’ needs. As a result, many Inland purchasers have recommended developments to others and bought more than one property from the company.

MILLWOOD DESIGNER HOMES With stunning developments across Kent, Sussex and Surrey, Millwood Designer Homes offers a broad collection of individually designed homes that are ideal for a variety of homebuyers, including first time buyers.

At Bakers Field in Cliffsend, a stunning coastal collection of 31 two to five bedroom homes nestled just five minutes from the Kent coastline at Pegwell Bay, the smaller properties offered first time buyers an affordable route into homeownership through the Help to Buy scheme (2013-2021), with prices starting from as little as £265,000. Similarly, at The Maltings, Millwood has provided a unique hamlet-style development of 45 one to six bedroom houses, located in a countryside setting in Biddenden, Kent. Perfect for those looking for a change of lifestyle, these attractive new homes have proven popular with first time buyers looking to reap the rewards of a hassle-free new build, especially through the Help to Buy scheme (2013-2021 and 2021-2023).

buyer

96

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 96

READERS’ AWARDS

18/05/2021 15:32

AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

THIS AWARD WILL GO TO AN ORGANISATION THAT HAS SHOWN INNOVATION IN THE WAY IT DESIGNS, BUILDS AND MARKETS ITS PROPERTIES AS WELL AS OFFERING A VARIETY OF SERVICES WHICH CAN HELP FIRST TIME BUYERS ON TO THE PROPERTY LADDER.

ABRI Abri is one of the largest housing providers in southern England. It owns and manages 35,000 homes and works on behalf of 80,000 customers in areas including Bristol, Southampton, Windsor and Yeovil. As a large-scale organisation it is committed to tackling the housing crisis, with plans to build at least 1,000 new homes a year until 2030, many of which will be affordable. With a history spanning almost 100 years, Abri has an eye on the future, collaborating with some of the UK’s leading thinktanks, policymakers, and researchers to find better, greener ways of working. Abri works closely with key stakeholders including local authorities, the Government, NHS and community groups, to listen to and respond in a way that best suits them. It strives to tackle homelessness, create equality of opportunity, improve health and wellbeing, enhance life chances, and make a positive impact on the world around us.

METROPOLITAN THAMES VALLEY HOUSING Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH) formed in 2018 when Metropolitan and Thames Valley Housing joined forces.

It owns or manages 57,000 homes across London, the South East, East Midlands and East of England and is a member of the National Housing Federation and the g15, which represents London’s largest housing associations. MTVH creates homes for shared ownership via its SO Resi brand, as well as offering affordable rent and open market sales.

Constantly innovating, the group has conducted research into shared ownership with Cambridge University to help shape its offering, presents crystal-clear marketing materials to demystify the tenure and creates a wide range of new homes from apartments in repurposed buildings to new family houses. It forms strategic, dynamic partnerships to promote shared ownership, with a new SO Resi Agency to help buyers find a home and support the market and links with housebuilders bringing homes into use more quickly.

BROADWAY LIVING In Ealing, where first time buyers struggle to get on the property ladder, Broadway Living is driving real transformation by boosting the supply of homes at accessible prices, which is helping to fund more homes for social rent. At its flagship development Copley W7 – the inspired revitalisation of a run-down estate in Hanwell – 114 of the 280 new homes being delivered will be available through Help to Buy or shared ownership. They are to the same high standards of design and build as delivered by the UK’s leading housebuilders. The remaining 166 homes are for social and intermediate rent, with all residents enjoying a thriving modern neighbourhood with new public areas and amenities. The success of Copley W7 has been such that Ealing council is investing £390m in Broadway Living to build 1,500 homes over the next six years, opening up home ownership to many more first time buyers.

ORIGIN HOUSING A medium-sized organisation having a big impact on the communities in which it works, Origin Housing has continued to support first time buyers on to the ladder throughout the pandemic – offering the best in customer service and highest quality homes. Origin Housing is committed to helping fix the housing crisis, through providing expert advice, skills and knowledge to help more customers step on to the property ladder. In 2020/21, Origin Housing hit a new landmark, as it now owns and manages over 7,000 homes, while in the next five years, the organisation will build another 500 homes.

Going above and beyond for its residents during the Covid-19 pandemic, in 2020, Origin Housing delivered organic food parcels directly to residents in need, and identified and called nearly 1,400 older and vulnerable residents to make sure they had access to the support they needed.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 97

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 97

18/05/2021 15:32

AFFORDABLE HOMES

buyer

HOW TO VOTE

READERS’ AWARDS

VOTE NOW FOR YOUR FAVOURITE IN EACH CATEGORY AT FTBAWARDS.COM AND YOU COULD WIN £250 OF IKEA VOUCHERS! Voting closes at midnight on 6 August 2021. FTB Award winners will be announced during the Awards Lunch at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square on 3 September 2021. A full list of winners will be published in the October/November issue of First Time Buyer.

TERMS & CONDITIONS • • • •

•

Your details will automatically be entered in a free draw to win £250 of IKEA vouchers Voting closes on 6 August 2021 The winner of the vouchers will be notified by email Voting is open to First Time Buyer readers, aged 18 and over, with the exception of employees of shortlisted nominees, their immediate families, agents, or anyone else associated with the administration or production of these awards Random authenticity checks will be made

SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS

PRE DRINKS SPONSOR

98

DESIGNATED CHARITY

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 98

18/05/2021 15:32

FTB 72-99 FTB-Awards June-July21.indd 99

18/05/2021 15:32

FTB 100-101 Competition June-July21.indd 100

18/05/2021 16:32

COMPETITION

HOW TO ENTER Answer the following question:

Name two features that help make your life a little bit easier when using the Yale Front Door Wi-Fi camera

TRUST YALE TO PROTECT YOUR HOME

Send your answer with your full name, address and telephone number to: lynda@firsttimebuyermag co.uk Closing date: 9 July 2021

THE PRIZE… ONE LUCKY READER WILL WIN A YALE SYNC SMART ALARM FAMILY KIT AND FRONT DOOR WI-FI CAMERA – LIGHT & SIREN WORTH £389.98.

T&Cs The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative will be given. Competition is open to UK residents only.

We all value our safety and want to protect the people and things that matter most. That’s where security specialist Yale can help with its Sync Smart Alarm Family Kit and Front Door Wi-Fi Camera – Light & Siren, which will give you confidence that you will be completely protected in the comfort of your home The wireless Yale Sync Smart Alarm Family Kit, £269.99, combines cutting-edge technology and traditional security know-how in one product, meaning all the trusted features you expect from a home alarm, such as a keypad, bell box, PIR sensors, and door/window contacts, work alongside the latest smart home security measures.

Remote arming/disarming, part-arming, mobile notifications and geolocation allow you to check in when you’re out and control your alarm through your smartphone. For added convenience, the alarm is compatible with other smart home systems, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Philips Hue lighting, combining lights, sound and voice to create the ultimate security deterrent.

In addition, up to 40 devices can be connected to the Yale Sync Smart Alarm Family Kit, meaning you can design the perfect security system for your needs; add extra door and window contacts, pet friendly PIR motion detectors, smoke alarms, smart plugs, keypads and even water leak sensors.

The Yale Front Door Wi-Fi Camera – Light & Siren, £119.99, lets you take

WIN!

WIN A YA SECUR LE SMART WORT ITY DUO H £38 9.98

advantage of always knowing who’s at your front door, night and day.

The camera features motion detection and real-time conversation via the Yale View App, so you can ask the postman to leave your package on the doorstep if you’re busy or out, while the built-in light and siren create an active deterrent for any unwanted visitors, giving you peace of mind that your home is protected.

With 10m night vision, the 1080pHD resolution camera provides highquality live viewing, motion detection and recording to a micro-SD card (not included). The camera is also weatherproof, meaning it can withstand the unpredictable British weather and protect your home and loved ones all year round.

The Yale Front Door Wi-Fi Camera – Light & Siren also works with leading voice assistants, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and with screen enabled smart speakers you can view a live feed by simply asking "Alexa, show me the front door".

Both products help make busy modern life that little bit easier.

For further information on the Sync Smart Alarm Family Kit and Front Door Wi-Fi Camera – Light & Siren, or any other products in Yale’s smart home security range, please visit yalehome.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 101

FTB 100-101 Competition June-July21.indd 101

18/05/2021 16:33

FIRST MEAL

FIRST HOME, FIRST MEAL This very simple, quick to make but delicious chicken ramen was created by TV presenter Gok Wan in association with itsu. Perfect for lunch or a light supper, it’s bound to be a hit with all the family

GOK’S CHICKEN RAMEN

INGREDIENTS (serves 2)

METHOD 1

Prep time: 5 mins Cooking time: 20 mins

2

 1 itsu chicken ramen

3

    

brilliant’broth 1 chicken breast 2 eggs 2 portions of fresh or dry ramen noodles 4 tenderstem broccoli 1 chilli

4 5 6 7 8

Grill or pan fry the chicken breast with salt, pepper and olive oil (about 10 minutes on each side).

Boil your egg (about 6 minutes from room temperature for a medium yolk), and then submerge in cold water before peeling.

While the chicken and eggs are on the go, cook the noodles as per pack instructions.

Pour the chicken ramen brilliant’broth into a saucepan and heat to a simmer.

Cut the tenderstem broccoli length ways and steam for 3 minutes.

When the noodles are cooked, separate them into two bowls and pour over the simmering brilliant’broth.

Top with the sliced chicken breast, tenderstem broccoli and a boiled egg, halved.

Finish with some finely chopped chilli.

Fashion expert, award-winning TV presenter and author Gok Wan has taken the fashion and TV world by storm and has become one of the UK’s most sought-after entertainers.

He made his mark in How to Look Good Naked by giving women the confidence to appreciate their bodies, encouraging them, whatever their shape and size, to strip for the nation! Gok has appeared in several cookery shows including Gok’s Chinese Take Away, Gok’s Lunchbox and Gok Cooks Chinese. He has also written several cookery books.

102 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 102-103 Fast-Food June-July21.indd 102

18/05/2021 16:34

FIRST MEAL

FTB’S FAST FOOD With the days starting to get longer and warmer, a picnic in the park is ever more appealing. With such a wide variety of different foods available for the picnic table it can become a little confusing as to what to put into your basket. To help you out, FTB has tried and tested the best picnic food the UK’s supermarkets have to offer, so you can sort your sausage rolls from your Scotch eggs and impress your friends and family with that perfect picnic THE PERFECT PICNIC

TEST WINNER

TESCO

MARKS & SPENC ER

WAITROSE

SAINSBURY’S

8 Gouda & chorizo rollitos, £2.50; feta stuffed peppers, £2.50; meat and cheese snacking selection, £2.50; Mediterranean platter, £2.50; mushroom arancini, £2.50

Chicken & chorizo empanadas, £3.30; mini bacon & cheddar cheese muffins, £3.30; mini chorizo & potato tortillas, £3.30; Serrano ham & Manchego cheese rolls, £3.30; Percy Pig 6 cupcakes, £5

Scrumptious Summer elderflower cordial, £2.50; Scrumptious Summer bacon & egg bites, £2.50; Scrumptious Summer ham hock & piccalilli bites, £2.50; Scrumptious Summer 9 lemon meringue & Eton mess cupcakes, £3; chicken satay with peanut dip, £2

Be Good To Yourself chargrilled vegetable couscous, £1.50; spinach & feta parcels, £2.50; ready to eat falafels, £2; harissa lamb & chicken koftas, £2.50; Taste the Difference beetroot, feta & walnut salad, £2.25

Tesco’s picnic selection is great, with all of the food perfect for any picnic

Marks & Spencer has some quality

occasion and ideal for sharing with

picnic food, taking inspiration from all

Sainsbury’s picnic food would be more

your nearest and dearest. The pick

over the world. The bacon and cheese

Waitrose's selection of picnic food had

but it just wasn’t quite as exciting as

of the bunch has to be the Gouda

muffins are a real savoury treat and

some stand-out options, but a couple

some of the other al fresco food that

and chorizo rollitos, which pack a

are extremely moreish, so you may find

that didn’t live up to expectations. There

we tried. The chargrilled vegetable

powerful punch with a strong flavour

yourself fighting over the last one. The

aren’t many people who can refuse

couscous is filling but perhaps a

and the meat and cheese working

empanadas are full of flavour with the

bacon and eggs, and the little bites

little on the bland side. The feta and

very well together. The stuffed peppers

paprika and chorizo coming through

provide the same nostalgic flavour in

spinach parcels come ready to eat and

had a good tang to them, softened

really strongly, but it’s a shame there

a small package. These are sure to be

have a good flavour, but the texture

by the creamy feta wrapped inside.

aren’t more than just four in a pack. The

a hit. The ham and piccalilli bites have

is rather on the soft side. The falafels

Both the snacking selection and the

ham and cheese rolls have an exquisite

a real traditional British flavour and

are also tasty, with the cumin working

Mediterranean platter offer a great

taste, especially the Serrano ham which

will disappear from the picnic table

really nicely, but they seem a little bit

assortment of little bites and are really

has a lovely saltiness to it. The chorizo

pretty quickly. The cupcakes are tasty,

dry. The lamb and chicken koftas are

great value for what you get inside the

and potato tortillas are nice, if not a

but perhaps a little too sweet, with just

excellent, giving a strong taste of the

pack. The mushroom arancini bring

little plain compared to some of the

one being more than enough for most

Middle East through the kick of the

a real taste of Italy to your picnic, but

other offerings. It seems nobody can

people. The chicken satay has a beautiful

harissa and the succulent meat. The

you might find that just one isn’t quite

escape the clutches of Percy Pig in the

peanut dip, although the chicken feels

beetroot, feta and walnut salad has

enough as you will be coming back for

UK, but the cupcakes are a great way

a little soft in the mouth. The elderflower

a fresh flavour and makes a nice side

more! Overall, an excellent selection

to finish off your picnic. That’s if you can

cordial is light and refreshing and is an

dish to go on your plate surrounded by

from Tesco ready for this summer’s

steal them away from the kids! A great

excellent accompaniment for any picnic.

all your other picnic bites.

picnic season.

selection of picnic food from M&S.

A nice range from Waitrose.

★★★★★

★★★★★

★★★★★

★★★★★

than suitable for any picnic occasion,

Do you need something a little more luxurious in your picnic basket to wow your loved ones? Morrisons is offering its lavish take on picnic dining with the Luxury Ploughmans Food Box, perfect for a romantic date during the day or an outdoor birthday celebration, with delicious snacks and treats. The box features the likes of The Best Nocerella Olives, The Best Marc de Champagne Truffles and The Best Sicilian Lemonade. Customers also have the option to upgrade to include prosecco or champagne. The Luxury Ploughmans Box is priced at £30 (£35 with prosecco or £45 with champagne) and includes next day or nominated day delivery.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 103

FTB 102-103 Fast-Food June-July21.indd 103

18/05/2021 16:35

LEGAL

Keep Calm and Keep Moving Moving to a new house can be a difficult time. Lesley Price FCILEx of CGM Hampshire Limited provides advice on what you can do to keep things moving and to manage delays when they occur BE REALISTIC ABOUT TIMESCALES One of the questions we get asked most in the conveyancing industry is, “How long will my transaction take?” And it’s the one question that is impossible to answer.

Each property and chain of transactions is unique and there are all sorts of things that can take time to investigate. What is important to remember is that your purchase is a major investment for you, and while we know you will want it done quickly, it is also vital it is done well.

FACTOR IN SOME CONTINGENCY Delays are often made worse in the conveyancing process when you, or another party, have circumstances which mean they don’t have flexibility to react to changing situations.

This could be a personal deadline such as limited leave or pre-booked holidays, or it could be in respect of one of the parties having a fixed date to leave their current accommodation. It is always better to go into the process with as much flexibility as possible, but circumstances may arise which are beyond you or your legal adviser’s control. If you do have deadlines or fixed timescales, then let your legal adviser know straight away.

You need to have contingency plans in place should the worst happen, and these timescales cannot be met.

CHASING DOES NOT ALWAYS HELP It is frustrating for everyone when delays occur, and often there may be things you can do to assist your legal adviser in moving things forward. However, there are often delays which cannot be helped and your legal advisers will do everything they can to move things forward.

Keep in contact with your legal advisers, and you should be updated regularly, but if your adviser is receiving multiple chasers on the same issue it can slow down rather than speed up the process. Trust your

legal advisers, as they will contact you as soon as they have news, and if you are still concerned, set timescales for updates which both you and they are happy with.

USE YOUR HEAD AS WELL AS YOUR HEART Often legal issues will arise during the course of a transaction which can be dealt with but can take time to resolve. There are often two ways of dealing with an issue which will involve a shortcut option such as an indemnity insurance policy or a longer process of varying documents or hunting down missing documents. While the use of indemnity policies is very common these days, and they perform a useful function, they are not always able to be obtained.

Also, it may be that the better option for the longer term for you is to correct the problem at the point you buy so it does not come up again when you come to sell in

the future. Your solicitors should provide you with all the options and even if you are coming under time pressure, remember it’s your purchase and you will want to go with the best option for your circumstances – not always the quickest fix.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE Remember that the end goal of your transaction is to be living for the long term in your new home. Even if the process is delayed or bumpy you will be able to get your move through, and it is important to remember it’s a huge investment for you, which is worth investing time and patience in to get a home you can both enjoy and that represents a safe investment for you in the future.

For more information regarding buying or selling your property and a no obligation quotation please email us on enquiries@c-g-m.co.uk

104 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 104-105 CGM June-July21.indd 104

18/05/2021 16:36

FTB 104-105 CGM June-July21.indd 105

18/05/2021 16:36

FINANCE

Why use a specialist mortgage broker?

Shared ownership is, for many thousands of people across the country, the only way they can afford to buy their first home. Buy a minimum share of 25% in a property then pay rent to a housing association. Sounds simple, and indeed it should be. However, it isn’t as straightforward as buying outright and it helps if you use a specialist mortgage broker

Here are five reasons why you should use a specialist mortgage broker:

IN DEPTH KNOWLEDGE Companies who specialise in shared ownership have in-depth knowledge of the market, the lenders operating in it, and the housing associations and developers selling the properties. They also understand all the issues relating to shared ownership, such as legal complexities, lending criteria and undertaking bespoke affordability calculations. Although increasingly mainstream, shared ownership is still a specialist sector, so it makes sense to use people who know it inside out.

ACCESS TO LENDERS Over the past decade there has been an increasing focus from the Government, local authorities and thinktanks on shared ownership as a bona fide fourth tenure in property, as well as heightened exposure in the media. As a result, more and more lenders have now entered this space, which means that first time buyers have a wide choice. So, you would think that a simple

Google search would identify which one was the best, but in reality, you would have to look through dozens of websites on an almost daily basis. Therefore, it is much better to talk to someone who has all the data, regularly updated, at their fingertips.

EXCLUSIVE DEALS Not only can some brokers get access to the best deals, some, like Censeo Financial, have such strong relationships with leading banks and building societies that they can secure exclusive deals for their clients. This is something we recently did with HSBC.

AFFORDABILITY Unsurprisingly, people looking to get on the property ladder want to know what they can afford, if they meet the criteria and what their likely monthly payments will be. Most mortgage brokers will struggle to find a quick and easy way to answer these important questions.

That is why we at Censeo have invested heavily in a range of solutions for our clients. If you want to check quickly what you can afford, we have a shared ownership

For over 14 years, Censeo Financial has been providing an exemplary service to both our housing association and developer clients and our customers. We were set up purely as a mortgage provider specialising in providing homes to first time buyers and since then we have become a recognisable, trusted and award-winning brand.

Since 2007 we have helped over 25,000 people with affordability assessments and around 6,000 people to purchase a property through shared ownership.

affordability app (available in both the Google and Apple stores). If you want to know whether you are eligible to buy a shared ownership property then our Assessment Portal will take you through an in-depth financial assessment which will give you a simple Pass or Fail result within 24 hours.

EXCELLENT CONTACTS Specialist brokers will also be dealing regularly with legal firms, insurance companies and lenders who also totally understand shared ownership. This makes the buying process as streamlined and problem-free as possible.

Buying a property is one of the most important decisions you will take in your life, so why not get the best possible advice?

Whether you are thinking about buying your first home, you simply want to know what you can afford to buy, or you’ve found a property but need sound financial advice, always go to a specialist broker like Censeo Financial. We are established, awardwinning and only do affordable. censeo-financial.com

106 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 106-107 Finance-Censeo June-July21.indd 106

18/05/2021 16:37

FTB 106-107 Finance-Censeo June-July21.indd 107

18/05/2021 16:37

FINANCE

Everything you want to know about 95% mortgages A new Government scheme will make it easier for buyers with a small deposit to get on to the housing ladder. Kay Hill looks at the details of the new mortgage guarantee scheme and how it compares with other options

EXPERT COMMENT The first details of the rates charged by lenders using the Government’s 95% mortgage guarantee scheme

The new Government-backed mortgage guarantee scheme aims to widen the availability of high loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages by providing lenders with a Government guarantee. High LTV mortgages always represent a greater risk to lenders, because if hard times come and a buyer is unable to pay the mortgage, lenders recoup their money by repossessing and selling the home.

If a buyer takes out a 75% loan, the mortgage company can be reasonably certain that selling a repossessed home, even if prices have fallen slightly, will generate enough money to pay back the amount outstanding. However, if a buyer takes out a 95% mortgage and defaults, the lender is likely to lose money, especially if the mortgage was on a new build, which, according to snagging company HouseScan, can cost up to 30% more than if it was secondhand. The mortgage guarantee scheme doesn’t protect borrowers, but it allows lenders to buy a Government guarantee against losses, encouraging them to offer higher LTV mortgages.

The Government stepped in because market conditions meant very few lenders were offering high LTV mortgages – according to Defaqto, in March 2019 there were 137 different 95% mortgages available to first time buyers, but two years later they had almost disappeared.

WHO CAN USE THE SCHEME?  First time buyers and home movers across the UK  You must be buying a home to live in, not a buy-to-let  Valid on new build or secondhand homes up to £600,000  You must meet normal income requirements and pass credit and affordability checks  Your loan must be a repayment

mortgage for between 91% and 95% LTV.  A five-year fixed rate must be available, but buyers can choose other options

have now been released – and they’re unimpressive. At the time of writing, the lowest five-year fixed rate comes from a lender not using the

The scheme started in April and will run until 31 December 2022, although this will be reviewed.

scheme – Coventry Building Society’s 3.89%, deal. However, initial rates aren’t quite everything. Lenders using the scheme are offering deals

WHICH LENDERS OFFER THE SCHEME?

with no arrangement fees – saving

Only a handful of major lenders have so far signed up, including (at the time of writing):  Barclays: two-year fixed rate, 3.99% with no fee; five-year fix 4.09% with no fee.

Valid on loans up to £570,000 but not available for new builds  Halifax/Lloyds: two-year fix, 3.73% with a £999 fee or 4% with no fee; five-year fix, 4% with £999 fee or 4.2% with no fee  HSBC: two-year fix, 3.99% with a £999 fee or 4.29% with no fee; five-year fix 4.29% with £999 fee or 4.49% with no fee, valid on loans up to £400,000 but not on new builds  NatWest/RBS: two-year fix, 3.9% with no fee; five-year fix, 4.04% with no fee. Loans of up to £600,000 but not available on new builds  Santander: two-year tracker and threeyear fix, 3.99% with no fee; five-year fix, 4.09% with no fee. Loans up to £600,000 but only up to £400,000 for flats and leasehold properties

available are the ones guaranteed

you around £1,000 – while the only two-year fixes for a 5% deposit by the Government. That means if you want a shorter-term deal, or have a smaller mortgage, you might well be better off using one of the Government-guaranteed mortgages from the likes of NatWest, Barclays or Halifax. There are also more restrictions on the non-Government mortgage offerings – with some only applying to first time buyers, for example. But before you consider applying for the scheme, it’s a good idea to compare the rate of interest on the 95% mortgage deal with that on a 90% deal, as you may end up paying a huge amount more in the long term. On a £250,000 home even the best 95% two-year deal will cost you more than £5,000 more over the term than the best 90% deal, while you’d save more than £8,000 in interest choosing the cheapest five-year 90% deal – even

Interestingly, other lenders have launched 95% mortgages outside of the scheme; offering similar, or in the case of the fiveyear fix from Coventry Building Society, superior rates, or lending in a wider range of circumstances. These include:  Coventry Building Society: five-year fixed rate, 3.89% with a £999 fee and free valuation, on a maximum loan of £400,000, excluding new builds and flats  The West Brom: three-year fix, 3.94%

after fees.

James Andrews Senior Personal Finance Editor, money.co.uk

108 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 108-109 Finance June-July21.indd 108

18/05/2021 16:38

FINANCE

EXPERT COMMENT The start of the 95% mortgage scheme, together with the recent extension of the Stamp Duty holiday, optimism over the Covid-19 vaccine roll out, and a shortage of properties, is pushing house

with no fee; five-year fix, 4.04% with no fee and free valuation. Maximum loan £250,000, cannot be used for new builds  Yorkshire Building Society: five-year fix at 3.99%, with a £995 fee and a free valuation. Via brokers only, cannot be used on new build homes or flats  Aldermore: two-year fix 5.08%; five-year fix 5.28%, both with a £999 fee. Available to buyers including the self-employed and those with credit issues, as well as on new build homes So, it looks like the Government scheme has succeeded in stimulating the market for high LTV loans – according to Moneyfacts, the number of 95% mortgages increased from just five at the start of March, to 67 by mid-April.

SHOULD YOU TAKE OUT A 95% MORTGAGE? High LTV mortgages were one of the causes of the 2007/8 credit crunch, as borrowers were offered up to 125% of the value of their homes, with few credit checks.

People couldn’t keep up with payments, repossessed homes were worth less than the outstanding loans, and banks including Northern Rock and Bradford & Bingley failed as a result. Today, affordability checks are tighter and lenders more cautious, so buyers are far less likely to run into trouble.

However, mortgage rates for 95% loans are higher, and the extra interest can mount up, so you need to consider carefully whether saving hard to reach a 10% deposit might save you money.

WILL YOU BE ELIGIBLE?

prices up rapidly – by 2.1%, in the

Loans on the Government scheme are still “subject to status” which means that you will have to prove that you have a secure, regular income sufficient to afford the repayments and a responsible credit history. Loanbird.co.uk calculated that for a single person with just a 5% deposit, this would mean that you would need a salary of £153,111 to buy a property in London, £130,097 to buy in Cambridge and £127,311 in Oxford. A salary of around £35,000 would enable a single person to buy in areas including Glasgow, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Sheffield and Liverpool. It’s worth noting that many providers exclude new builds.

Rightmove. The 95% mortgage

last month according to data from scheme is welcome news for first time buyers as only having to find a 5% deposit will finally make homeownership more of a reality than a dream for many. However, demand for properties is at an all-time high and competition in the housing market is fierce, with some properties being on the market for less than a day. This is putting an awful lot of pressure on buyers to act quickly. The concern for first time buyers is that, with house prices rising as rapidly as they are, deposits will be escalating with

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

them. For example, a 5% deposit

 Save longer – if you can boost your deposit to 10% you open up a wider range of cheaper mortgages, but be aware of house price inflation  Help from family – relatives could help by putting cash into a linked savings account or securing some of the debt on their own home. For example, Barclays Family Springboard mortgage offers a five-year fix at 3.45% with no fee  Help to Buy: Equity Loan – this is open to first time buyers only, buying modest properties. You need a 5% deposit, but as the Government loans you a further 20% (40% in London) interest free for five years, you can take a more affordable 75% mortgage.  Shared ownership – you to buy part of a leasehold home and rent the rest.

a month ago would have been

on property valued at £300,000 £15,000. If that same property is now worth £306,435 (2.1% increase) then a 5% deposit would now stand at £15,321. If house prices grow, then they will also have to borrow more, which could result in no longer passing the lender’s affordability checks.

Holly Andrews Managing Director, KIS Finance

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 109

FTB 108-109 Finance June-July21.indd 109

18/05/2021 16:38

MARKET

Noise pollution Many of us have spent lockdown at home and, while it should be a peaceful haven, for some noise pollution is proving to be problematic. Ginetta Vedrickas assesses the issues

NOISIEST PLACES IN BRITAIN New data reveals that more than a quarter of a million noise complaints were made to UK councils last year. Confused.com analysed Freedom of Information data across UK local authorities in the UK’s 100 biggest cities and London boroughs to find out the number of noise complaints in the past 12 months and compared it with the number of households. London tops the list as the UK’s noisiest city with 515 complaints per 10,000 households. Westminster dominates the ranking as London’s loudest borough, with an average of one noise complaint for every five households in the last year and, outside the capital, Southampton was top of the list, with 476 noise complaints per 10,000 households.

ENGLAND NOISIER THAN SCOTLAND, WALES AND NORTHERN IRELAND For anyone thinking about moving to a new area in the UK, taking a look at noise complaints could be the deciding factor, particularly while we are now spending a considerably larger amount of time in our homes. The research found that Cheltenham, Solihull and Oldham are some of the quietest areas in the UK, with the lowest number of noise complaints per 10,000 households and no cities in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland featured in the top 10 noisiest neighbourhoods,

110

although Swansea, and Belfast both have the highest complaints in their region at a total of 4,756 and 3,890 over the past 12 months.

TYPES OF NOISE Covid has seen many of us confined to home, where we’ve struggled to work, keep up with home schooling and where we’ve also spent much of our leisure time by reading or watching TV. Being at home for long periods can bring the growing realisation that noise is an issue and it can arise from a variety of offenders from construction work to road traffic noise. In its research, Confused.com found that 50% of those surveyed complained about loud music, followed by noisy parties at 43%, then in third place 29% of complaints were about shouting and raised voices, with barking dogs in fourth place at 24%.

Loud television was in fifth place at 21%.

EXPERT COMMENT More often than not, a friendly conversation goes a long way. But when that fails, where to turn to next can be confusing. We’ve created a guide to understanding basic neighbour etiquette, including how best to handle noisy situations. While calling the police might seem like the best route to take, you should in fact

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT NOISE? Confused.com has produced a handy guide which details your rights as a resident when making complaints about noise and how to deal with noisy neighbours. Most experts agree that the best way forward, if you feel safe doing so, is to approach your neighbour with your concerns as they may not realise how much their noise impacts upon their neighbours and in many cases

be getting in touch with your local council.

Jessica Willock Home Insurance Expert, confused.com

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 110-111 Market June-July21.indd 110

18/05/2021 16:39

MARKET

the noise issues can be resolved without any need for further action.

SOUNDPROOFING There are some measures you can take to protect yourself against noise problems.

Soundproofing floors is a smart move in family homes or flats, especially during the pandemic when everyone is spending more time at home – and that goes for the neighbours too. Laura Crombie, Brand Development Director at realhomes.com has plenty of tips and advice whether you’re converting your loft or basement, or redesigning the first floor of your house, “Consider fitting a DIY soundproof layer to stop sound transferring between storeys. It will make living in your home much more peaceful and enjoyable and it’s an easy task to do, as all you’ll require are some overlay tongue and groove plywood boards with cushioning on one side, PVA wood adhesive, foam tubing, a tape measure, saw, hammer and cloth.”

TAKING YOUR COMPLAINT A STEP FURTHER All local authorities and district councils have environmental health departments with teams dealing specifically with noise complaints, known as “noise or nuisance teams”. A nuisance can relate not just to noise that stops you doing what you normally do, for example, sleeping or watching television or even having a conversation with someone in your own home, it also includes odours, fumes, dust, smoke and fireworks, with the exception of certain festivals when times for fireworks may be extended. In fact, a nuisance can be anything that may interfere with the enjoyment of your own home.

Living with noise can be stressful but the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP), a non-profit membership body, has some reassuring advice. Chief Executive Amanda Hamilton explains, “The good news is, there is something that can be done!” Hamilton has plenty of tips as to what to do if all reasoning fails, and the neighbours refuse to change their behaviour, but she warns, “Don’t be tempted to threaten them or resort to retaliation tactics; call the ‘noise team’ of your local council.” Hamilton says that it can help greatly if you have been able to keep a diary of the dates, times and type of disruption

which will help the noise team, “The noise team needs to hear the noise or witness the disruption for themselves, so if you can determine a pattern, this will help them visit at the appropriate time and can move the process forward much quicker. Also, keep a log of your conversations with your neighbour about the disruption, and of their responses.”

PROCESS OF A NOISE COMPLAINT There are certain things that noise teams are unable to deal with, such as noise relating to traffic, planes, trains, and some domestic noises such as footsteps, crying babies, kitchen appliances and doors opening or closing. However, Hamilton advises that all other noises are “actionable”, such as neighbours playing loud music at unsociable hours (which are defined by law as after 11pm until 7am).

Once you have reported your complaint to the noise department, they should then instruct a team that contacts you to enquire whether the noise is still going on. If it is, they come round and experience the noise from your home. If they believe that the noise is excessive, they can initially talk to the neighbours to ask them to refrain and give them a warning. Once the first visit has taken place, a letter is sent to the neighbours confirming the noise team’s visit and explaining that, if the team is requested to visit again, a second warning will be given. On a third visit, the team has the right to serve a notice threatening prosecution and or seizure any equipment that is contributing to the problem such as speakers and music equipment.

EXPERT COMMENT Noisy neighbours, particularly during the past year with several national lockdowns and more people than ever working from home, have become an increasingly pertinent issue for homeowners. The first step, if you feel safe and comfortable enough to, is usually to have a polite word with your neighbour about the excess noise. Most people are quite reasonable and hopefully that should nip any problem in the bud quickly.

Robin Edwards Property Buying Agent, Curetons, curetons.co.uk

EXPERT COMMENT

WHEN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CAN’T HELP

If you’re struggling to “get in the zone”

If you still have trouble, or the noise team hasn’t provided the remedy you are seeking, you could always apply to the court for an injunction. This is an order from the court, that can have a power of arrest attached, which forces the neighbour to stop the noise, and this is where you may want to use the services of a paralegal who can help. Paralegals are trained and educated to assist consumers to make applications to courts and give advice. They are not solicitors, so their fees are lower, and they are therefore more cost effective.

consider investing in noise-cancelling

while working from home because of unwanted distractions, you could headphones as well. These gadgets offer you the opportunity to balance more productivity with the chance to unwind after work.

Laura Crombie Brand Development Director, realhomes.com

nationalparalegals.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 111

FTB 110-111 Market June-July21.indd 111

18/05/2021 16:39

EXPERTS

Agony agent Readers put their property questions to our guest panel of experts: solicitors, mortgage advisers, property gurus and Help to Buy providers

THIS MONTH’S PA N E L O F E X P E R T S Sue Dance Sales & Commercial Manager, Grand Union Housing Group

Hopkin Man Head of Sales and Marketing, Octavia

Getting on the housing ladder Asha Agarwal Interim Head of Sales, Be West

T E S T T H E PA N E L

We need your questions...

If you have any queries, or difficulties in understanding the property buying process, our panel of experts is waiting to help. Send our team your questions on buying property, Help to Buy, legal issues, or your financial problems and we’ll find the best person from the panel to give the advice you need.

Email your questions to: lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk

Q

My husband Luke and I have just been able to have our ceremony of civil partnership following some lockdown laws being relaxed, so we are now looking forward to our future and hoping to find an affordable property in the area with a view to buying later on when we can afford more. My husband is a paramedic in and around the Bedford area and I am just able to go back to work in the hospitality area; I work as a fitness adviser at a local health resort at Henlow. We are currently staying with family in Shefford.

What do you advise?

Scott Peterson, Shefford

A

A good start would be an affordable priced market rent property or an intermediate rent property which are offered by most housing associations. For example, you could rent a two bedroom brand new apartment in central Bedford within walking distance of the River Great Ouse with allocated parking and prices from £825 per calendar month. This would get you started in your own place.

There are also shared ownership apartments to buy in the same scheme, so when your circumstances improve you could purchase a 35% share of a two bedroom apartment from £70,000 (full market price £200,000) at Gatehouse Mews which will be launched soon.

Nearer the time, speak to an independent financial adviser who specialises in shared ownership to check if you can qualify. If you do go for this option you pay rent on the share you don’t own but can purchase more shares as you can afford it until you own the property outright.

Good Luck!

Gatehouse Mews in Bedford consists of 15 exclusive two bedroom stylish apartments to rent and to buy for shared ownership, and is located on a brand new purpose-built development within walking distance of Bedford railway station, which runs regular trains to London St Pancras in under 30 minutes. The development is also within walking distance of Bedford town centre and the River Great Ouse.

The properties feature luxury designer flooring in the main areas, video intercom system and fitted wardrobes in the master bedroom. The stylish, high-gloss kitchens are fitted with appliances including washing machine, fridge-freezer, oven and hob (with extractor) as well as a dishwasher.

Gatehouse Mews is well placed for city living, working and commuting. Whether you’re home based, working within Bucks, Beds and Herts, or commuting to London for work, these apartments will ensure you are perfectly placed.

The show apartment and marketing suite launch in May 2021. For homes that are available for rent, the monthly rental payments start from £825 per calendar month, while shared ownership homes are available from £70,000 for a 35% share.

More details at grandunionliving.co.uk.

Sue Dance

112 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 112-113 Agony Agent June-July21.indd 112

18/05/2021 16:41

EXPERTS

Location, location, location

Q

I rent a flat in west London with a friend but I really want to buy a place of my own. However, I don’t want to compromise on the location as I want to stay in this area of London. Will I ever be able to afford to buy and get my first dream home?

Louise Pettit, Acton

A

It’s no secret that property prices are high and as time moves on, the trend for them is to keep on increasing in value. Generally speaking, London is by far the most expensive place in the UK to live and west London is no exception to this. Of course, this leaves many people like yourself in a position where there seems to be no chance of owning your own property, let alone your dream home. However, certain affordable housing schemes, such as shared ownership, have a hugely important part to play in allowing residents like yourself to be able to purchase in their home town. Although you will pay a subsidised monthly rent on the proportion of the property that you do not own, you will have all of the benefits of owning your own property.

As the initial purchase share can range from anything between 25% to 75% of the full market value of the property, your initial deposit could be as low as 5% of this figure, making saving for the deposit more attainable. With regards to getting a mortgage, this also means that the amount to be borrowed would be more attainable, as the amount you will need to borrow is significantly reduced when compared to buying on the open market. In the future, depending on your circumstances, you also have the option to purchase further shares in the property, all the way up to 100%.

This is known as staircasing and as you buy more shares the amount of rent you pay will reduce too.

Here at Be West, we currently offer Waterside Heights – an impressive collection of 65 shared ownership apartments in immensely well-connected West Drayton. These spacious homes, each with private outside space, are set within attractive private fully landscaped communal grounds alongside the Grand Union Canal. Waterside Heights offers a chance for first time buyers to put down roots in an increasingly popular West London suburb.

Affordably priced, one bedroom apartments start from just £87,000, for a 30% share with a full market value of £290,000.

Minimum monthly rent is just £465 per month, with deposits from £8,700. Do go to bewest.co.uk for more information.

Asha Agarwal

Where to start?

Q

I’m looking to buy my first property in London and struggling to find somewhere which is affordable and close to good transport links. I’m not having much luck with my search, as the apartments I’ve seen so far are either too small or too far away from a station. Like a lot of people during the pandemic, I’m working from home, but my job requires me to travel throughout London when things finally start getting back to some sort of normality.

Patrick O’Sullivan, Reading

Buying your first home is always a fine balance between space, location and budget. Your priorities will adjust as you view more properties and start to reconsider what’s important to you and what your budget will allow. Shared ownership is definitely something you should consider. This popular scheme could help you achieve the balance you are looking for.

Shared ownership allows buyers to get on to the housing ladder with a smaller deposit than would be required if they were buying on the open market.

A

Deposits can be as low as 5% of the share being purchased.

There are a number of brand new developments offering the advantages of shared ownership, without the need to sacrifice on either quality or location.

In west London, Octavia has apartments available in Eden House, located less than a minute’s walk from Hounslow Central underground station on the Piccadilly Line, providing easy access to Heathrow

or central London on the same line.

Hounslow town centre is also nearby, with its excellent selection of coffee shops, restaurants and high street brands. These two bedroom, two bathroom apartments all come with balcony space and prices starting below £100,000 with shares starting from 25%. For further information please visit octavialiving.org.uk.

Hopkin Man

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 113

FTB 112-113 Agony Agent June-July21.indd 113

18/05/2021 16:41

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 114

18/05/2021 19:16

Buyers’ guide FTB EXPLAINS ALL THE OPTIONS TO HELP FIRST TIME BUYERS

Your options What are your funding options if you want to get on the housing ladder?

FIRST STEPS

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR A GOVERNMENTBACKED SCHEME? The Government backs several schemes to help people get on to the property ladder. The best known is the Help to Buy: Equity Loan, which is open to all buyers purchasing a new home costing up to £600,000 from an approved provider. There are no income restrictions and you can use it to upsize, but not to buy an additional property. For more details, contact a Help to Buy Agent. There is also shared ownership, which is open to families with a household income of up to £80,000 (£90,000 in London).

BUYING ON THE OPEN MARKET Many people buy property on the open market. Homes are offered for sale by estate/sales agents or from private developers or house builders.

On new build developments there is usually a show home you can look around and a sales adviser, based on site, to answer your questions.

To buy on the open market, you will need a mortgage deposit of at least 5% to 10% of the full property value.

BUYING A NEW HOME OFF-PLAN

FUNDING OPTIONS

JARGON EXPLAINED

G O V E R N M E N T- B A C K E D SCHEMES

EQUITY LOAN

Help to Buy: Equity Loans The Government provides equity loans of 20% of the full property value (40% in London boroughs). The loan is interest free for the first five years with interest at 1.75% in year six, rising by RPI (retail price index) inflation plus 1% after that. The loan must be repaid when the property is sold or within 25 years. You will need to raise a deposit of 5% and a 75% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgage. New build homes priced up to £600,000 can be bought. The current Help to Buy: Equity Loan Scheme runs until the end of March 2021 and will be restricted to first time buyers after that.

This is a Government loan for a percentage of a property’s value (20% outside London, 40% in London). If you remain living in the property, you repay the equity loan within 25 years. If you sell the property, you repay the percentage of the property price the loan was for. For example, if the equity loan was originally £30,000 on a £100,000 property (30%) and you sell the property for £200,000, you’ll have to repay £60,000 (30% of £200,000).

Shared Ownership or Part-Buy, Part-Rent The Government shared ownership scheme is available for households with an income of up to £80,000 (or £90,000 if buying in London.)

The scheme allows you the chance to buy as little as a 25% share in a property and pay a subsidised rent on the rest. Rent is calculated at 2.75% (sometimes less), with annual increases of RPI + 0.5%. In most cases, you can buy more shares after you move in with the opportunity to own the property outright.

This is called staircasing. The mortgage deposit you’ll need to buy with shared ownership is calculated on the share value; this works out at a lot less than if you were buying outright.

There are a few less well known Governmentbacked schemes; more details of these can be found on ownyourhome.gov.uk:

Rent to Buy or Intermediate Rent With this scheme you rent a newly built property for up to five years and pay a reduced rent. This gives you time to save up for a deposit so you can apply to buy a share of the home later. Homes available with Rent to Buy are few and far between.

Demand for new homes often outstrips supply; this means that new homes are often reserved before their construction is complete, sometimes several months before they are built and finished. This is called “buying off-plan”. Most providers market and sell their homes in this way. Do some careful research to make sure the home you reserve is the right one for you, especially as you may not have an opportunity to physically view inside it before your commitment to buy it becomes a legal obligation.

Older People’s Shared Ownership (OPSO)

PRIVATE INITIATIVES

*NEW!* First Homes

Some builders offer incentives on new build homes such as cashback, free legal fees, help with moving costs or money towards Stamp Duty. Some developers may offer shared equity, a private version of shared ownership.

This is a new option announced by the Government in late 2019. With First Homes, first time buyers and key workers will be offered discounts of 30% on new build homes. Further details are awaited.

This is designed for people aged 55 and over.

Scheme specific details vary, so check with the housing association provider.

Home Ownership for People with Long Term Disabilities (HOLD) HOLD is a specialist option designed to help people with long term disabilities to live independently in a shared ownership property where, in some cases, repairs and maintenance services are offered by the housing association provider.

HOMES ENGLAND This is a Government organisation tasked with increasing housing supply. They also fund affordable homes including Help to Buy.

STAIRCASING If you buy a home with shared ownership, you will be given the right to buy more shares at any time in the future. This is called staircasing. In most cases, you can buy shares up to 100% of the property and own it outright.

When you buy more shares, these are valued at the market value at the time. Because house prices tend to rise over periods of time, it is a good idea to think about staircasing right from the moment you move into your new shared ownership home.

FUNDING OPTIONS BUYING ON THE OPEN MARKET & P R I VA T E I N I T I A T I V E S

To buy on the open market or from a house builder you’ll need to get a mortgage from a bank or other mortgage lender. To do so you’ll need to save a deposit and meet the provider’s lending criteria.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 115

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 115

18/05/2021 16:49

BUYERS’ GUIDE

The ftb process TIPS

Buying your first property can be a daunting experience. It’s a big decision, so it’s important to get it right. We take you through all the steps involved

F

Unless you have enough money to buy a property outright you’ll need a mortgage. A mortgage is a loan used to buy a property and is repayable over a number of years (usually 25-35 years). The loan is “secured” on the property, which means the mortgage lender could repossess your home if you fail to make repayments on time. For this reason, it’s vital only to buy a property you can realistically afford.

Before you start, find out how much money you can borrow. A mortgage adviser will need details of your income, outgoings, savings and credit history – they will then be able to give you an “agreement in principle”, which will state, in theory, how much they will be able to lend you. An agreement in principle, however, doesn’t tie you, or the lender, to anything. Instead, it will just give you a rough idea of how much money you’ll be able to borrow.

You’ll also need a deposit, normally around 10% of the property price. The bigger the deposit, the better the mortgage rate you’ll be offered. Each mortgage product will have a maximum loan-to-value or LTV.

inance

APPLICATION You will need at least three months of bank statements, payslips or tax returns, photo ID such as a passport or driving licence and details of any loans. Lenders will look at your outgoings to assess how much you can afford to pay on your mortgage each month. The bigger deposit you have and the better your credit score, the better mortgage rate you’ll be offered.

BUDGET Work out how much you can afford to repay each month, taking into account your normal living expenses and the bills, insurance and council tax on your new home. Don’t forget there is likely to be a service/ estate management charge on a new home, plus ground rent for a leasehold property, so find out how much they will be.

CREDIT SCORE Get a credit report from Experian or Equifax, and make sure there are no default accounts, CCJs (county court judgements) or missed payments. If you are making lots of enquiries to find the best deal, make sure the lenders log your enquiry as a soft search rather than a hard search as too many applications leave “footprints” on your credit score and can affect your rating.

To improve your score, make sure you’re on the electoral roll, and pay your bills and any loan repayments on time.

MORTGAGE BROKERS VS LENDERS You can apply for a mortgage via a mortgage broker (or financial adviser) or direct from a lender. A broker can look at the deals available and advise you which one would be best for your circumstances.

Some mortgage products are only sold through brokers, not directly to customers.

A broker will help you with the paperwork and deal with the lender on your behalf up until completion. You may have to pay them a fee or they may earn commission from the lender – find out how they are paid before committing to anything.

Mortgage advisers in banks or building societies can only sell you products offered by that company, so it’s unlikely they will be able to offer you the very best deal for your circumstances. It’s important to shop around. You can compare mortgages online at sites such as moneysupermarket.com or SET A BUDGET

FINANCE

Work out how much money you have for fees, deposit and the monthly mortgage you can afford.

CREDIT SCORE

Make sure your credit rating is sound and there are no mistakes on your file, and pay off any debts you can.

moneysavingexpert.com, then apply directly to your chosen lender.

FIXED-RATE MORTGAGES Some mortgages are fixed rate. This means you’ll pay the same rate of interest for a defined period of time, and your payments won’t change. If interest rates go up, you’ll be protected from the increase, but you won’t benefit from any fall in interest rates.

Normally, at the end of the fixed period your mortgage rate will revert to the lender’s standard variable rate (SVR) for the rest of the term. You can either pay this rate (which is often quite expensive) or remortgage to another lender. Remortgaging to another lender can sometimes mean you have to pay a fee or early redemption charge (ERC).

VARIABLE-RATE MORTGAGES Variable-rate mortgages are either linked to the lender’s SVR or the Bank of England base rate, and the rate you pay can change.

Lenders can change their SVR whenever they want, but they normally only change it when the Bank of England base rate changes. Tracker mortgages are also variable, but they have repayment rates that are directly linked to the base rate so will go up and down with it. With variable-rate mortgages you need to be sure you could afford higher repayments if rates rise.

REPAYMENT OR INTEREST-ONLY Most mortgages available to first time buyers are on a repayment basis. With this type of mortgage, every monthly payment will pay off some interest and some capital (mainly interest in the early years). At the end of the term, you’ll own your home outright.

If you have a larger (25% or more) deposit you may be offered an interest-only mortgage, where you only pay interest on the loan. The monthly repayments are lower but at the end of the term you’ll still owe the original mortgage sum. You’ll need to prove you have a plan in place (such as an investment) to pay off the capital.

SHOP AROUND

Speak to a mortgage broker, but also look at lenders’ direct products and search the internet.

RESEARCH

116 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 116

18/05/2021 16:49

BUYERS’ GUIDE

TIPS

RESEARCH AN AREA

T

Buying a property is a big investment. horough You need to make research sure you buy a home that you can afford and one you will be happy living in.

LOCATION IS KEY The first step is to shortlist the locations you feel you’d like to live in, then check if you can afford the house prices in those areas.

It’s also worthwhile visiting places you like: it may be that there’s an up-and-coming hot spot just down the road you didn’t know about that’s much more affordable.

Ideally, you will have rented in the area before buying, but if this isn’t the case, at least spend some time there, check out the commuting time to work, and look at local pubs, shops and leisure facilities. Visit the area at night, too.

PROPERTY SEARCH Once you have found the right location, go online and check out what’s on offer.

Most homes are listed on property portals such as rightmove.co.uk, onthemarket. co.uk, or zoopla.co.uk, plus estate agents’ websites. Properties featured have pictures, descriptions and a floor plan, and DECIDE ON A LOCATION

Be practical.

Think about the commuting time and whether you can afford to buy in the area.

RESEARCH THE AREA

Check out crime statistics, transport links, regeneration and, if relevant, schools.

sometimes a video. Also, sign up with as many local estate agents as you can. They should send you new properties that match your description, but it’s worth phoning them regularly. If you’re looking for a shared ownership property, search online at sharetobuy.com and propertybooking.co.uk.

Aerial shots of an area can be viewed at google.co.uk/maps; switch to “satellite view”.

VIEWING Once you see a property you like, arrange a viewing. Most people see at least 10 properties before putting in an offer. It’s worth bringing a friend or relative and also arranging a second viewing to check out any bits you may have missed. Don’t get taken in by the furnishings and decor too much.

Remember that a property that is slightly run down can still be a great investment and may only need a touch of paint and a change of furniture.

ESTATE AGENTS It’s a buyers’ market, so make use of agents’ legwork in finding properties that fit your requirements. Be aware that estate agents are paid commission by the seller on the sale, so try to inspect the property yourself rather than just the parts the agent shows you. Don’t get sucked in by the hard sell.

SEARCH

Register with local estate agents, and use the internet to search for properties. Set up alerts.

Check online for prices of sold properties in the area, and make sure properties you like fit your budget. You can search for recent sold prices of property in any area at nethouseprices.com, and also on property portals like rightmove.co.uk/zoopla.co.uk.

VIEWINGS

Look at several properties, and visit ones you like more than once and with someone else.

Take a checklist.

Before you put in an offer, visit the street at different times of the day and night. You could also ask neighbours and local shop owners about the area.

BEFORE YOU BUY When looking at buying apartments, check exactly what is included in the service charge and how much it is. Also, ask about the terms of the lease and its length. If the lease has less than 80 years left, use this as a negotiating tool and make an offer below the asking price.

OFFER

If the market is slow, when making an offer, don’t be afraid to offer less than the asking price.

If the property needs work done, you can use this as a negotiating tool.

SURVEY

BUYING

Make sure you have a survey – it could save you money in the long run by spotting any problems.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 117

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 117

18/05/2021 16:49

BUYERS’ GUIDE

BUYERS’ COSTS

B

uying process

SURVEYS AND VALUATIONS

Once your offer is accepted, tell your mortgage lender. They will do a valuation to ensure the property is worth the money being advanced. At the same time, instruct a surveyor to carry out a survey. If this shows problems, find out how much they would cost to rectify and use this information to renegotiate the sale price. Or, tell the seller certain repairs need to be carried out before contracts are exchanged.

SOLICITOR’S/CONVEYANCING COSTS (ESTIMATED)

£700-£1,500

LOCAL AUTHORITY SEARCH FEES (ESTIMATED)

£200-300

LAND REGISTRY FEES: For an existing property: For a purchase of £80-£100k £40.00

For a purchase of £100-£200k £95.00 For a purchase of £200-£500k For a new build property: For a purchase of £80-£100k £80.00

For a purchase of £100-£200k £190.00 For a purchase of £200-£500k £270.00

SOLICITORS

A QUICK SALE Push the seller to take the property off the market. This will limit the chances of being gazumped (another buyer making a larger offer). The seller can insist on continuing to show the property, especially if you haven’t offered the asking price.

Once the mortgage offer is in place, the contract is satisfactory and buildings insurance has been organised, both parties will agree an exchange date. You will sign the contract with your solicitor, and at the point of exchange of contracts, you pay a deposit and a completion date is set. At this point, there’s no going back – the seller could sue you if you pull out, and you could lose your deposit. The completion date is usually around a week to 10 days after exchange, but can be done on the same day.

On completion, the final paperwork is done, and the property is legally yours.

Never get pressured into an exchange and completion date without knowing all your finances and documents are in place. If you can’t complete, you may have to pay the seller’s costs.

English property law is different to Scottish law: in England, if you put in an offer and then have a change of heart, you can legally back out of the deal or negotiate up until the exchange date. But, in Scotland, an agreed price is binding.

Compare quotes from solicitors, and ask your friends who they recommend. A good solicitor can make a big difference to whether a purchase completes or falls through. Online companies can be cheaper but are less personal.

STAMP DUTY LAND TAX (SDLT) (UNTIL 31/03/2020):

£0-£500,000 Zero

£500,000 to £925,000 5% £925,001 to £1.5m 10% Above £1.5m12%

Example: on a £600,000 purchase SDLT would be £5,000 – 0% on £0-£500,000 and 5% on £100,000 (being the £100,000 above £500,000)

OTHER FEES TO CONSIDER (ESTIMATED, DEPENDENT ON CIRCUMSTANCES): MORTGAGE ARRANGEMENT FEE

EXCHANGE AND COMPLETION

Use a recommended solicitor who you know to be reliable and who can move fast.

SOLICITORS

For a purchase of £500k-£1m £540.00

After the offer is accepted, you will also need to appoint a solicitor or conveyancer who will oversee the contract, deal with the finances and exchange the deeds. Your solicitor will carry out searches, check the terms of any lease and restrictive covenants and tell you how much Stamp Duty you have to pay. The seller will also appoint a solicitor, and the two legal teams will be in regular contact to make sure the purchase goes as smoothly as possible.

TIPS

INSURANCE

You must have buildings insurance in place for when you exchange contracts (not complete). This will be a condition of your mortgage offer.

MORTGAGE VALUATION £0-£300

SURVEY £300-£700

MORTGAGE BROKER’S FEE £0-£500

BUILDINGS INSURANCE £200-£300 annually

GROUND RENT (LEASEHOLD ONLY) & SERVICE CHARGES £100-£4,000 annually charges for maintenance of communal areas

From offer to completion usually takes about six weeks to three months, but don’t feel pressured or rush into anything you’re not sure of just because the seller or estate agent wants you to exchange.

Look at the results of searches your solicitor has done. They will tell you, for example, if a main road is about to be built at the end of your garden.

£0-£1,500

New freehold homes may also have service/estate

TIME SCALE

SEARCHES

£135.00

For a purchase of £500k-£1m £270.00

REMOVALS

Shop around for a removals firm, and find one that can move your possessions on completion day. You could also look at van hire to do it yourself.

REMOVALS (IF REQUIRED) £1,000-£2,500

COMPLETION

Your solicitor or estate agent will call you to tell you the property is yours. The solicitor will have some final paperwork to do, and you will then have to pay the solicitor’s bill and your Stamp Duty payment (if applicable).

118 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 118

18/05/2021 16:49

BUYERS’ GUIDE

Home buying glossary Confused by financial acronyms and industry terminology?

Buying your first house is daunting enough without having to decode property lingo. FTB’s homebuying glossary is here to make the process a whole lot easier to understand AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE

DISBURSEMENTS

The initial document that a lender will give you outlining the amount you are likely to be lent if you applied for a mortgage. An agreement in principle is not a guarantee of getting a mortgage.

These are additional charges incurred during the homebuying process such as Stamp Duty and Land Registry charges. You must give the money to your conveyancer or solicitor who will then pay the charges on your behalf.

APR APR stands for annual percentage rate.

It is the interest rate you’d pay over a year. It takes into account not just the interest on your loan but also any other additional charges.

EARLY REPAYMENT CHARGE

ARREARS

EQUITY

This is a term used to describe payments that haven’t been made on time.

The difference between the value of the property and the value of the mortgage you have secured.

BASE RATE The interest rate set by the Bank of England. Lenders usually use the Bank of England base rate to set their own interest rates.

BROKER

This is an amount of money you may have to pay a lender if you decide to move mortgage provider or if you pay off your mortgage quicker than expected.

EXCHANGE OF CONTRACTS This is when you exchange contracts with the seller. When this has happened, both sides are legally bound to complete the transaction.

A broker is someone who gives you advice on your mortgage. Some are independent, while others work for particular lenders.

FREEHOLD

BUILDING SURVEY

When a seller accepts an offer and then later on rejects it in favour of a higher offer from another bidder.

A survey carried out by a qualified surveyor to spot any structural problems or faults in the home you are buying.

COLLATERAL Something of value that is offered as a guarantee against a loan. With mortgages, your home is collateral.

COMPLETION The finalisation of the sale. Completion day is when the paperwork is complete, all money is transferred and you become the legal owner of your new home.

CONVEYANCING The legal process of transferring ownership of a property.

A freehold is when you fully own a property and the land it stands on.

GAZUMPING

GUARANTOR A person, usually a parent, who guarantees that you can pay your mortgage repayments. You often need a guarantor if you are struggling to get a mortgage based on your own income. If for some reason you cannot pay your mortgage, your guarantor has to pay it for you.

HIGHER LENDING CHARGE If you take out a large mortgage on a property, some lenders may charge a one-off extra fee. This funds an insurance policy that protects the lender (not you) from the additional risk.

LAND REGISTRY FEES This is a fee you have to pay in order to register your ownership of the property with the Land Registry.

LEASEHOLD A type of tenure where you buy the right to occupy a property for a fixed period of time. You usually have to pay annual ground rent each year.

LTV This stands for loan to value – the ratio between the amount of money you have taken out as a loan and the valuation price of the property.

LUMP-SUM REDUCTION In order to reduce your mortgage, you can make a lump-sum reduction. This is where you pay more than you owe each month in mortgage repayments.

REDEMPTION Paying off your mortgage in full is known as redemption.

REPAYMENTS The amount you have to pay back each month to your mortgage provider

STAMP DUTY Stamp Duty is a shortened name for Stamp Duty Land Tax, also called SDLT. This is a Government tax you may have to pay when you purchase a new property. Your solicitor or conveyancer will organise the payment for you.

TITLE DEEDS The legal documents that outline your rights and liabilities in relation to your new property. The title deeds also act as proof of ownership.

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 119

FTB 114-115 Buyer's Guide June-July21.indd 119

18/05/2021 16:49

LEGAL

Common questions from a first time buyer about conveyancing A first time buyer will of course have no experience of instructing or using a conveyancer. Here Adam Crawford, Partner at Prince Evans Solicitors LLP, looks at some of the common questions a first time buyer may ask

Q What is conveyancing and why do I need a conveyancer?

A Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring a piece of land from one party to another.

You need a conveyancer to advise you on all of the legalities of buying a property such as the terms of the contract, the legal title to the property and the result of any conveyancing searches. Your conveyancer will ensure you have a good and marketable title to the property for both you and your mortgage lender’s interest.

Q Do I need to choose a local conveyancer and how do I choose a conveyancer?

A No, and often it may be wise not to as your local conveyancer may not have the necessary expertise for the nature of the property you are buying. For example, if you are buying a new build or shared ownership property you would be wise to ensure that your conveyancer has ample experience in this area.

Often you will be recommended a specific conveyancer by your agent/ developer/housing association/mortgage adviser. It would certainly be worth talking to the recommended conveyancer as they will, in the main, be recommended as they are trusted by the person recommending them to do a good job or have the specialist expertise required.

Most conveyancers do not require their buyer clients to visit their offices and operate using email, post and telephone, and in this day and age, with the technology available, there is no need for restricting yourself to a local conveyancer.

Finally, shop around and look at reviews and remember the cheapest option is often not the best option and could be reflected in the service you receive. Your relationship with your conveyancer will be crucial for

120 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 120-121 PrinceEvans June-July21.indd 120

18/05/2021 16:44

LEGAL your homebuying journey and is not one you want to get wrong!

Q How much does conveyancing cost?

A There is no simple answer to this as it can vary depending on the type of property you are buying, and many conveyancers will charge extra for leasehold property (flats) or if there is, for example, a Help to Buy: Equity Loan, to reflect the additional work they will need to carry out. Typically, however, we would suggest as a first time buyer you should budget in the region of £700-£1,200 plus VAT for conveyancing fees. In addition, you need to budget for the additional third party costs and ensure you are aware of any Stamp Duty Land Tax, land registration fees and the cost of conveyancing searches.

You would be well advised to obtain a few quotes to compare in advance of buying a property and familiarise yourself with the associated costs.

Q How long will the conveyancing process take (and when can I get the keys)?

A This is the question a conveyancer gets asked more than any other! The honest answer is we cannot say (and any conveyancer who tells you they can is fibbing!). The conveyancing process is dependent on many elements and the process can only move as quickly as the slowest element. For example, it will depend on the speed of the conveyancing searches, your mortgage offer, any delays in the chain, the complexity of any legal issues and how quickly the seller and their conveyancer deal with any enquiries.

The average time in the UK from reserving a property to completion is typically around 16 weeks but varies depending on the type of the property.

As an example, Prince Evans Solicitors LLP acts for many buyers of new build property where we are targeted to exchange contracts within four weeks of receiving contract papers; and if the mortgage is issued in time we routinely achieve this.

It should be noted that Covid, the Stamp Duty holiday and the high level of activity in the housing market has resulted in a negative impact on timescales for certain services, eg it may take longer to obtain your mortgage or search results than usual.

The best way to gauge how long it will

take is to stay in regular contact with your conveyancer and agent as key stages are achieved (but by that we do not mean call them every day!) and the picture will become clear as progress is made.

Q What is the difference between conveyancing and surveying?

A Conveyancing concerns the legal aspects and the legal process of purchasing a property, whereas surveying looks at the condition of the property. You are highly recommended to consider carrying out a survey when you buy a property as this can identify any issues with the condition of the property and could prevent you from buying a property with expensive defects that may need repairing. We recommend you read the further information on the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors website at the following link: ricsfirms.com/ residential/moving-home/buying.

Q I see some conveyancers offer “no completion, no fee” or similar. What does this actually mean?

A You would need to check the specific terms of any conveyancer that offers this, but broadly speaking it will mean that if you do not proceed with your purchase, whether through your own choice or the choice of your seller, your conveyancer may not charge you a fee for the work they have carried out. This does not extend to any disbursements that have been incurred (ie money paid to others on your behalf such as the cost of conveyancing searches).

If your conveyancer does not offer this (which is not standard) then you would likely be charged an abortive fee based on the approximate time your conveyancer has spent on your file.

You should check any terms and conditions carefully.

Q Why does conveyancing cost more for an apartment than a house?

A An apartment will be a Leasehold Title whereas a house will typically be a Freehold Title. There is a lot more work involved for your conveyancer if you are buying a leasehold property than a freehold, including checking the lease is adequate and checking the management arrangements which are in place.

A freehold purchase is generally less complex than a leasehold purchase.

Prince Evans specialise in all aspects of conveyancing.

Please contact Prince Evans for all your conveyancing needs and for a friendly no obligation quote on 020 8567 3477 or nbh@prince-evans.co.uk

Q Can I instruct any conveyancer irrespective of the type of property that I am buying?

A Yes, you can. However, you are strongly urged to check that the conveyancer you are instructing specialises in the type of property you are buying. If you are buying a typical suburban house then it is true that most conveyancers should have the necessary skills and experience to competently act for you.

However, if you are, for example, buying using the shared ownership scheme, or using a Help to Buy: Equity Loan, which are both popular products with first time buyers, then you are strongly advised to ensure that your conveyancer has a good level of expertise in this area.

Q When should I appoint a conveyancer A There is no strict rule on when you should appoint a conveyancer, but most people appoint a conveyancer once they have found a property that they intend to purchase. However, there is merit in obtaining quotes and choosing your conveyancer prior to this, and it can also put you in a strong position in any negotiations with a seller. For example, if you are competing with another buyer, then having a mortgage in principle agreed and a conveyancer already instructed could give you an edge over any rivals. It is also wise to get quotes in advance of any purchase, as this will help you budget appropriately for your purchase.

Q How often should I chase or contact my conveyancer during the transaction?

A A good conveyancer should keep you updated when something key in your transaction occurs, so hopefully there should not be a need for you to constantly chase them. Of course, it is a good idea to stay in contact with your conveyancer and you should feel free to contact them when you have questions.

However, please resist the urge to contact your conveyancer constantly as they are typically very busy (which is how they keep the fees down for you as a buyer) and if you are over contacting them this will slow down the conveyancing process.

Conveyancers understand better than most the stress of buying a property, but please be realistic and understand that they may not always be able to reply to your email or phone call immediately, but they will respond to you when they can and when it is appropriate. You will be far best served by building a friendly and professional rapport with your conveyancer and having realistic expectations (like you would from any service you pay for) – we are human like you after all!

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 121

FTB 120-121 PrinceEvans June-July21.indd 121

18/05/2021 16:44

Directory HELP TO BUY - NORTH PlusDane Tel: 0300 790 0570 helptobuyagent1.org.uk Cheshire Cumbria Durham East Riding of Yorkshire Greater Manchester Lancashire Merseyside North Yorkshire Northumberland Tyne and Wear South Yorkshire West Yorkshire

HELP TO BUY - MIDLANDS AND LONDON bpha Tel: 03333 214 044 helptobuyagent2.org.uk

ZONES, HELP TO BUY AGENTS, HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS AND MORE...

HELP TO BUY - SOUTH Radian Tel: 0800 456 1188 helptobuyagent3.org.uk Bedfordshire Berkshire Bristol Buckinghamshire Cambridgeshire Cornwall Devon Dorset East Sussex Essex Gloucestershire Hampshire Hertfordshire Isle of Wight Kent Norfolk Oxfordshire Somerset Suffolk Surrey West Sussex Wiltshire

Derbyshire Herefordshire Leicestershire Lincolnshire London Northamptonshire Nottinghamshire Rutland Shropshire Staffordshire Warwickshire West Midlands Worcestershire

122 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 122

18/05/2021 16:58

USEFUL CONTACTS

ZONES, HELP TO BUY AGENTS & HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS – RECEIVE ADVICE ON PROPERTY FUNDING OPTIONS

NORTH

Shropshire Staffordshire

PlusDane

Warwickshire

Tel: 0300 790 0570

West Midlands

helptobuyagent1.org.uk

Worcestershire

SOUTH

Cheshire Cumbria Durham

Radian

East Riding of Yorkshire

Tel: 0800 456 1188

Greater Manchester

helptobuyagent3.org.uk

Lancashire Merseyside

Bedfordshire

North Yorkshire

Berkshire

Northumberland

Bristol

Tyne and Wear

Buckinghamshire

South Yorkshire

Cambridgeshire

West Yorkshire

Cornwall Devon

MIDLANDS AND LONDON

Dorset East Sussex Essex

bpha

Gloucestershire

Tel: 03333 214 044

Hampshire

helptobuyagent2.org.uk

Hertfordshire Isle of Wight

Derbyshire

Kent

Herefordshire

Norfolk

Leicestershire

Oxfordshire

Lincolnshire

Somerset

London

Suffolk

Northamptonshire

Surrey

Nottinghamshire

West Sussex

Rutland

Wiltshire

ADVERTISE HERE Speak to our advertising team to find out the best ways to give your organisation maximum exposure.

Call 020 7258 0036 or email lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 123

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 123

18/05/2021 16:58

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 124

18/05/2021 16:59

USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS – OFFERING NEW BUILD SCHEMES, INCLUDING HELP TO BUY (SHARED OWNERSHIP) AND RENT TO BUY PROPERTIES

LONDON Catalyst Housing

BMA Property Group

Hastoe Housing

Optivo

octaviahousing.org.uk

bmapg.com

Association

optivo.org.uk

020 8354 5500

020 8942 4062

hastoe.com

0800 012 1442

catalyst.homes 0333 444 3500 Clarion Housing

01235 515 900

Octavia Housing

0300 555 2171

Optivo

Chelmer Housing Partnership

optivo.org.uk

chp.org.uk

Home Group

originhousing.org.uk

0800 012 1442

0300 555 0500

homegroup.org.uk

0300 323 0325

myclarionhousing.com/

Southern Home Ownership shosales.co.uk

0300 123 2250 Origin Housing

Sovereign Housing sovereignliving.org.uk

0345 141 4663

0300 500 0926

sharedownership

Origin Housing

CHS Group

020 7378 5638

originhousing.org.uk

chsgroup.org.uk

Housing Solutions Group

Association

0300 323 0325

0300 111 3555

housingsolutions.co.uk

orwell-housing.co.uk

Stonewater

0800 876 6060

0345 601 0030

stonewater.org

Estuary Housing Association

Orwell Housing

01202 319 119

estuary.co.uk

Paradigm Housing

Clarion Housing

0300 304 5000

paradigmhousing.co.uk

myclarionhousing.com/

Hyde New Homes

PA Housing

0845 337 4877

sharedownership

hydenewhomes.co.uk

pahousing.co.uk

Swan Housing Association

Fabrica

Peabody

020 7378 5638

0345 606 1221

0300 123 2221

swan.org.uk

fabrica.co.uk

peabodysales.co.uk

0800 783 2159

020 7021 4842

Crown Simmons

L&Q

Paradigm Housing

crownsimmons.org.uk

lqgroup.org.uk

paradigmhousing.co.uk

Thames Valley Housing

Gateway Housing

Places for People

01372 461 440

0300 456 9998

0300 303 1010

Association

Association

placesforpeople.co.uk

gatewayhousing.org.uk

01772 667 049

Estuary Housing

Metropolitan

Peabody

Association

metropolitansales.org.uk

peabodysales.co.uk

020 3535 2555

020 7021 4842

Moat

Places for People

Fabrica

moat.co.uk

placesforpeople.co.uk

0300 323 0011

01772 667 049

Notting Hill Genesis

Rosebery Housing

Flagship Homes

nhgsales.com

Association

0333 000 4000

rosebery.org.uk

020 8709 4300

0300 303 2500

tvha.co.uk

Sanctuary London

estuary.co.uk

Guinness Partnership

sanctuary-homes.co.uk

0300 304 5000

guinnesspartnership.com

0800 916 1444

0303 123 1890 Site Sales

fabrica.co.uk

Hexagon

site-sales.co.uk

0800 783 2159

hexagon.org.uk

020 8502 5758

020 8778 6699 Shepherd’s Bush Housing

flagship-homes.co.uk

Home Group

sbhg.co.uk

0808 168 4555

homegroup.org.uk

020 8996 4200

020 8607 0550 Town and Country Housing tchg.org.uk 01892 501 480 Worthing Homes worthing-homes.org.uk 01903 703 108

SOUTH WEST

01372 814 000 Aster Group

Nu Living Guinness Partnership

nuliving.co.uk

Sanctuary South East

buyanasterhome.co.uk

Southern Home

(South)

0800 819 9390

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

01380 735 480

Hyde New Homes

Ownership

guinnesspartnership.com

hydenewhomes.co.uk

shosales.co.uk

0303 123 1890

0345 606 1221

0300 555 2171

0345 141 4663

Islington and Shoreditch

Swan Housing Association

Housing Association

swan.org.uk

isha.co.uk

0300 303 2500

0800 131 3348 Cornerstone Housing

One Housing Group onehousing.co.uk

Soha Housing

cornerstonehousing.net

0300 123 9966

Soha.co.uk

01392 273 462

0300 131 7300 Thames Valley Housing L&Q

Association

lqgroup.org.uk

tvha.co.uk

0300 456 9998

020 8607 0550

Metropolitan

Wandle Housing

metropolitansales.org.uk

Association

020 3535 2555

wandle.com 0300 200 0120

Newlon Living

SOUTH EAST

newlonliving.co.uk 0800 058 2544

Accent Group Notting Hill Genesis

accentgroup.org

nhgsales.com

0345 678 0555

0333 000 4000 Aster Group Nu Living

buyanasterhome.co.uk

nuliving.co.uk

01380 735 480

0800 819 9390

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 125

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 125

18/05/2021 16:59

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 126

18/05/2021 16:59

USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS CURO

Rooftop Housing Group

Accord

Friendship Care & Housing

Nottingham Community

South Staffordshire

curo-group.co.uk

rooftopgroup.org

accordgroup.org.uk

fch.org.uk

Housing Association

Housing Association

01225 366 000

0800 042 1800

0300 111 7000

0300 123 1745

ncha.org.uk

ssha.co.uk

0800 013 8555

01785 312 000

Elim Housing

Sanctuary Southwest

Acis Group

Home Group

elimhousing.co.uk

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

acisgroup.co.uk

homegroup.org.uk

Orbit

Waterloo Housing

01454 411 172

0800 131 3348

0800 027 2057

0345 141 4663

orbit.org.uk

Association

0800 678 1221

waterloo.org.uk 0800 435 016

Green Square

Severn Vale Housing

Bromford Group

Guinness Partnership

greensquaregroup.com

svhs.org.uk

bromford.co.uk

(Northern Counties)

PA Housing

01249 465 465

01684 272 727

0330 123 4034

guinnesspartnership.com

pahousing.org.uk

WM Housing Group

0303 123 1890

0116 257 6716

wmhousing.co.uk 0300 790 6531

Guinness Partnership

Sovereign Housing

Caldmore Accord

(Hermitage)

sovereign.org.uk

caldmoreaccord.org.uk

L & H Homes

Places for People

guinnesspartnership.com

0300 500 0926

0300 111 7000

landh.org.uk

placesforpeople.co.uk

0345 309 0700

01772 667 002

0303 123 1890

NORTH WEST Accent Group

Stonewater

Clarion Housing

Hastoe Housing

stonewater.org

myclarionhousing.com/

Metropolitan

Riverside Housing

accentgroup.org

Association

01202 319 119

sharedownership

metropolitansales.org.uk

Association

0345 678 0555

020 7378 5638

020 3535 2555

riverside.org.uk

hastoe.com 0300 123 2250

Westward Housing

Liverty

westwardhousing.org.uk

Derwent Living Housing

Midland Heart

dchliverty.com

0300 100 1010

Association

midlandheart.org.uk

Rooftop Group

derwentliving.com

0345 602 0540

rooftopgroup.org

0300 123 8080

MIDLANDS

0345 155 9029

01332 346 477

Places for People

Adactus Housing Group adactushousing.co.uk 0300 111 1133

0800 042 1800

Arcon Housing Association

Muir Group

placesforpeople.co.uk

Accent Group

East Midlands Housing

muir.org.uk

Sanctuary Midlands

arcon.org.uk

01772 667 049

accentgroup.org

Association

0300 123 1222

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

0161 214 4120

0345 678 0555

emhhomes.org.uk

0800 131 3348

0300 123 6000

First Time Buyer June/July 2021 127

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 127

18/05/2021 16:59

USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS CDS Co-operatives

0117 407 2415

0345 678 0555

cds.coop 0333 321 3030 Eden Housing Association

Equity Housing

Guinness Partnership

Acis Group

manninghamhousing.co.uk

Accent Group

muir.org.uk

acisgroup.co.uk

01274 771 144

accentgroup.org

0300 123 1222

0800 027 2057

0345 678 0555

Places for People

Broadacres

muir.org.uk

Bernicia

placesforpeople.co.uk

broadacres.org.uk

0300 123 1222

bernicia.com

01772 667 002

01609 767 900

Progress Housing Group

Crucible Homes

placesforpeople.co.uk

Castles and Coasts

progressgroup.org.uk

cruciblesalesandlettings.co.uk

01772 667 002

castlesandcoasts.co.uk

0333 320 4555

0114 241 3430

0800 085 1171 Together Housing

Regenda Homes

Equity Housing

togetherhousing.co.uk

Erimus Housing Ltd

regenda.org.uk

equityhousing.co.uk

0845 077 0027

erimushousing.co.uk

0344 736 0066

0300 123 4460

Home Group

0300 111 1000 Sanctuary North

homegroup.org.uk

Riverside Housing

Guinness Partnership

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

Guinness Partnership

0345 141 4663

Association

(Northern Counties)

0800 131 3348

(Northern Counties)

riverside.org.uk

guinnesspartnership.com

0345 155 9029

0303 123 1890

impacthousing.org.uk

guinnesspartnership.com Stonewater

0303 123 1890

stonewater.org Sanctuary North

Home Group

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

homegroup.org.uk

0800 131 3348

0345 141 1663

Association

01202 319 119

Home Group homegroup.org.uk

Wakefield and District

0345 141 1663

Housing

irwellvalleyha.co.uk

Your Housing Group

Leeds Federated Housing

wdh.co.uk

Karbon Homes

0161 610 1000

yhghomes.co.uk

Association

0345 850 7507

karbonhomes.co.uk

0845 618 5008

lfha.co.uk 0113 386 1000

Knowsley Housing Trust k-h-t.org 0151 290 7000

0300 111 1000

0344 800 3800

0303 123 1890

Irwell Valley Housing

Thirteen

Places for People

guinnesspartnership.com

0344 873 6290

0800 131 3348

thirteengroup.co.uk

Muir Group

(Northern Counties)

Impact Housing

Sanctuary North sanctuary-housing.co.uk

Muir Group

equityhousing.co.uk 0300 123 4460

NORTH EAST

Association

edenha.org.uk 01768 861 400

Manningham Housing

YORKS/ HUMBER

L&H Homes

0808 164 0111 Your Housing Group yhghomes.co.uk

Places for People

0845 618 5008

placesforpeople.co.uk

landh.org.uk Liverpool Housing Trust

Accent Group

lht.co.uk

accentgroup.org

01772 667 002

0345 309 0700

SUBSCRIPTION

OFFER! Four issues for just

£14

Please call our subscription team on

020 3874 1649 128

1 issue £3.95

(Free P&P)

4 issues £14

(Free P&P)

6 issues £21

(Free P&P)

First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 128

18/05/2021 16:59

FTB 122-129 Directory June-July21.indd 129

18/05/2021 16:59

20 QUESTIONS Sarah McCarthy is Marketing Manager for Network Homes, overseeing the marketing for shared ownership, private sale and London Living Rent. Her career started in magazine publishing, and eventually moved into marketing where she stumbled into housing through working with a housing association. She has been with Network Homes for five years

20 QUESTIONS W i t h Sarah

McCarthy

Which room at home is your favourite?

I like the study; it is a nice retreat away from the noise! And it has my books and a nice view of the garden.

What’s your favourite gadget or technology at home?

It’s not glamorous, but my favourite gadget is the washing machine – with three children it’s vital!

What colour do you think everyone should have in their home?

There are so many colours to choose from. Neutral colours are functional and practical and can create a calming effect. Stand-out wallpapers and colourful art can really improve a room; large prints look great on curtains too.

Which three people would you invite over for a housewarming party if you could have any guests?

Gosh that’s tricky. For laughs I would invite Pete and his little sister Sophie from Gogglebox – does that count as one? If I could also step back in time and be young again, I would invite actor Paul Mescal along to talk about his sexy role in Normal People. And before Paul arrived, I would invite hairdresser Samantha Cusick to glam up my hair!

What’s your favourite memory from your childhood home?

Lazy Sundays, playing in our very large garden with my brother, building dens and cycling around on our bikes. Finishing the day with my mum’s lovely roast dinner and my dad lying on the sofa watching TV. What interior trend do you hate?

I don’t like an interior that is overly fussy like loud tartan patterns, lacy or frilly accessories – anything that gathers dust or feels creepy!

Would you rather have a garden or a balcony?

With a house full of children and a new puppy, definitely a garden. I like the idea of a balcony but I suffer with vertigo, so sitting so high up isn’t a pleasure.

Do you prefer modern homes or period properties?

I like both. I love the history and the architecture of an older property. But a brand new home with fitted appliances that's ready to move into is very appealing.

Would you rather have a library room or media room at home?

A library room would be my dream room. I have books all over my house so to have them all in one place in alphabetical order would be wonderful. It’s my perfect escapism.

Would you prefer a luxurious bathtub or a sumptuous shower?

If I had more time then I would choose a bath, but I’m normally rushing around, so a sumptuous hot shower with some decadent body wash would suit me.

Would you rather live in the bustling city or in the country?

I’m fortunate to have the best of both worlds as I have access to fields and countryside near my house. However, I love the fact that I’m close to a mainline station and I can be in Marylebone in under 30 minutes.

If you were buying a property overseas, in what country would you buy a home?

If money was no object, I would buy a property in America. My brother lives in New York so it would be lovely to be nearer to him and his family. They live beside Central Park, so they are close to some amazing bars, restaurants and theatres.

Would you rather have a bigger property or a better location?

I would rather have a better location as I think the area tends to generate a better community, more facilities and a higher standard of schools.

What is one thing you couldn’t live without at home?

A downstairs toilet! It’s so handy when you have younger children and you can hear if they haven’t turned off the taps!

Where did you buy your first home?

It was a 1930s terraced house in Denham, Bucks. It was terribly oldfashioned and outdated. There was flowery wallpaper on the ceiling of the bedrooms and polystyrene ceiling tiles in the lounge. It needed a new bathroom and kitchen. It felt very grown up selecting new items and I really loved the end result.

What advice would you give a first time buyer?

To remember to enjoy making it your perfect home. You might not be able to have all the furniture and decorate it how you want at first, but you can build it up over time.

What are your views on shared ownership?

I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to get on the property ladder. A friend of mine is in the process of buying a house through shared ownership. They struggled during lockdown with limited space and no garden for their son. This move will really change her and her family’s quality of life.

What are your views on the property market?

I think it is incredibly tough for people to understand the property market. I think educating people on the best way to get on the property ladder is the way forward as it is confusing. Magazines like First Time Buyer really help to cut through the jargon. networkhomes.org.uk

130 First Time Buyer June/July 2021

FTB 130-132 20Qs June-July21.indd 130

18/05/2021 16:46

FTB 130-132 20Qs June-July21.indd 131

18/05/2021 16:46

FTB 130-132 20Qs June-July21.indd 132

18/05/2021 16:46