REAL LIFE

DURING LOCKDOWN, MANY FIRST TIME BUYERS MANAGED TO SAVE FOR THEIR FIRST HOME. JENIE FUERTE, 34, IS ONE ASPIRATIONAL BUYER WHO MANAGED TO BOOST HER SAVINGS. SHE PURCHASED A 25% SHARE OF A ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT AT SO RESI EALING USING SHARED OWNERSHIP

Jenie was previously living in a house share in Ealing and had always intended to become a homeowner, having opened a Help to Buy ISA in 2018 that she was adding to each month. During lockdown, when she could no longer socialise or travel, Jenie managed to boost her savings significantly and was able to put down a 20% deposit on her new apartment.

Jenie, who works in a central London hospital, said, “I had been living in a house share for two years, and while it was fine temporarily, it became a nightmare from the first lockdown. It was hard not having my own space, and having to deal with a challenging landlord was very stressful. The pandemic gave me the push I needed to really focus on my a place of my own where I could make my own rules and do as I please!

“For me, the most important thing is that I feel happy and comfortable in my home, and shared ownership has allowed me to do this. I now have the security of owning my own home and I don’t have the uncertainty that comes with renting. I would recommend shared ownership to young buyers like me who are on single incomes, as it offers a realistic route on to the property ladder.”

Jenie adds, “There is a lot of investment going into Ealing at the moment with new housing, retail and of course Crossrail, and you can really see the future potential of the area. It’s very much up and coming, and I’m looking forward to seeing the area develop further. I am confident that I have made a good investment by buying early on in Ealing’s regeneration.”

Alongside the attractive cost and space available, Jenie was also drawn to SO Resi Ealing’s convenient location. She said, “Location-wise the development is perfect as it’s within a short walk of both West Ealing and Ealing Broadway stations, which is handy for me to travel into central London for work or to catch up with friends. I can reach Paddington from West Ealing Crossrail station in just 12 minutes, Bond Street in 15 minutes and Canary Wharf in just 29 minutes. I also really like how close I am to so many shops and restaurants.

“The outdoor space at SO Resi Ealing was really appealing – the balconies are nice and big, and the rooftop garden is amazing. It’s one of my favourite places to go whenever I want to relax or watch the sunset. There are also plenty of green parks within walking distance, such as Deans Gardens, Walpole Park and the famous Ealing Common. Shared ownership has changed my life and I am so happy I have finally got on the property ladder.”