First Time Buyer – December 2019/January 2020

the Ultimate Guide to... GETTING ON THE LADDER, THE PROPERTY MARKET AND HELP TO BUY December 2019/ January 2020 £3.95

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CONTEMPORARY BAR STOOLS FROM MODERN WIRE WORTH £300 EACH

CHRISTMAS WRAPPED UP! FOOD, DRINK AND ALL THE TRIMMINGS

WHAT DOES BREXIT REALLY MEAN FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS?

AFFORDABLE HOTSPOTS AROUND THE UK

“It is hard to raise a deposit but if you can move in with parents or family while you save, then take the opportunity” Laura Hamilton

TV presenter and property expert FTB 01 Cover Dec-Jan20.indd 1

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EDITOR’S LETTER

E D I T O R I A L – 020 7258 0036

Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant DAWN HARKER Creative Director RYAN BEAL Sub Editor KAY HILL Social Media DAWN HARKER Contributors MICHAEL BENNISON, DAVID BLAKE, SARAH CLANCY, CHRIS CLARK, DEBBIE CLARK, BILL DHARIWAL, DAWN HARKER, KAY HILL, JONNIE IRWIN, LAURA DEANOSGOOD, DONNA PILCHER, LESLEY PRICE, GINETTA VEDRICKAS A D V E RT I S I N G – 020 7258 0036

Director of Advertising/Exhibition Sales LYNDA CLARK

lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk Special Events EILIDH MACLEOD – First Time Buyer Home Show – First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards boom@squarepegmedia.com Accounts DAVID SELF david.self@ultimateguidecompany.com

W elcome It’s been quite a year! I don’t want to mention the dreaded “B” word but it has been hanging over everyone like a dark little cloud causing chaos all around the country. Now we have an election on the horizon so even more uncertainty. But, the good news is that though the property market has been jittery over what is going to happen, and the consequences of coming out of the European Union, it is very much the “time for the first time buyer”. Interest rates are still very low, so there are some excellent mortgage deals to be had, and with shared ownership and Help to Buy, which both only need a 5% deposit, it is really possible to get on the ladder. Whether you are starting the journey to homeownership, are saving for a deposit or are actively hunting for your dream home, I hope 2020 will be extra special for you.

A date for next year’s diary is 7 March as we are holding an FTB Home Show in Stratford – and we are offering one lucky visitor the chance to win £1,000 towards their deposit! The show is the ideal opportunity to come along and talk to private developers, housing associations and legal and financial experts to find out how to get on the property ladder. You can register to visit on our website ftbhomeshow.com, and don’t forget to fill in the form on your way into the show, to be in with a chance of winning £1,000 to boost your deposit.

We have just launched our FTB Readers’ Awards 2020 and the shortlist will appear in the next issue and go online on 3 February 2020.

We will soon be asking you to vote at ftbawards.com. So, a big thank you in advance for taking the time to cast your all-important votes.

I hope you all have a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year and thank you for all your support.

Until next time, happy house hunting

Managing Director SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk Public Relations RACHEL COLGAN rachel@building-relations.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS 020 7258 0036 SWITCHBOARD 020 7258 1777 FAX: 020 7258 1787

firsttimebuyeronline EDITOR’S PICKS…

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE COMPANY LTD, 37 IVOR PLACE, LONDON NW1 6EA All advertising copy for February/March 2020 must be received before 7 January 2020.

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 2008-2020. 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.

@firsttimebuyer

I always try to borrow money as cheaply as I can and protect myself from fluctuations by fixing my mortgage.

Jonnie Irwin, Jonnie’s World, page 9

When we started looking around we could only afford the worst property but on the best street.

Shanie Ryan, At home with, page 14

If we started renting It will be the then we wouldn’t be scariest purchase able to save. of your life, but also one of the Lucy Martin, Real Life, most satisfying page 78 when you finally get the keys to We have been renting together in your own home.

Windsor for three Andrew Peglau, 20 years and would Questions, page 114 really like to get our feet on the property ladder Natalie Levy, House Hunter, page 16

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CONTENTS

Cover photo © Georgie Gavin

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020 / ISSUE 80 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK

What’s in…

71

For sale

78

Having both been living with their parents and desperate to move out, Lucy Martin, 24, and her fiancé managed to buy their first two bedroom apartment through shared ownership at a Hyde New Home development in Hove and couldn’t be happier.

HOMEPAGE

offer solutions, never problems!

They talk to Lynda Clark about how it all began, their plans for the future and give some useful advice for first time buyers.

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

16 House Hunter

10 FTB Loves...

We try to find Natalie and Danny Levy a new home in Berkshire or west London.

A round up of our favourite hot buys.

12 Living Prepare your home for lots of festive fun with all the trimmings.

12

14 14 At home with…Shanie Ryan and Tony Sinclair TV, radio presenter and influencer Shanie Ryan and her partner, Tony Sinclair, both have a passion for property. After buying their first home that hadn’t been touched for 30 years, they transformed it into a modern two bedroom apartment.

Having got the renovation bug, they decided to start His & Hers Renovations and Interiors, a bespoke design service that promises to only

18 Developer’s doctor

FEATURED

24 How affordable are UK homes?

The dream of getting on the property ladder can, at times, seem unobtainable. However, Post Office Money’s latest survey reveals that over half of UK properties are affordable for first time buyers.

Debbie Clark looks at some of the ftb hotspots around the country.

Jeremy Marcus, Sales and Marketing Director at Higgins Homes, answers your property question.

20 The View: Laura Hamilton Laura Hamilton leads a very hectic lifestyle flying all over the world filming A Place in the Sun – for Channel 4 and running her very successful coffee shop and deli, Lord Roberts on the Green. She talks to Lynda Clark to tell her how she fits it all in and gives some excellent tips for first time buyers.

64 Newt to the area Lynda Clark visits Peters Village along the banks of the River Medway in Kent – a sustainable development which stands on the historic site of an old Victorian quarry and cement works, and is creating a really thriving community.

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CONTENTS LAURA HAMILTON, PAGE 20

20

WE HAD TO MAKE A DECISION WHETHER WE WOULD BUY AN IN-BETWEEN HOME UNTIL WE COULD FIND OUR DREAM ONE, BUT WE HAD TO WEIGH THIS UP WITH THE COST OF STAMP DUTY

86

94 Market

REGULARS

First home, first meal It’s that time of the year when we spend time with friends and family, so why not celebrate Christmas and New Year with a delicious cocktail created by some of London’s best-loved restaurants and bars?

87

Laura Hamilton

Competition Win a Twist bar stool and a Cage bar stool worth £300 each from Modern Wire.

Back in June 2016, the country voted to leave the European Union and since then there has been a complete breakdown with endless delays, and now there is a general election on the horizon. Ginetta Vedrickas investigates how this has affected the property market and first time buyers.

32 Hotspot

96 Agony Agent

We look at Stockport as a place to live.

All your property questions answered by our panel of epxerts.

84 A stress-free purchase

99 Buyer’s Guide

Lesley Price, Head of New Homes & Shared Ownership Conveyancing, and Bill Dhariwal, Managing Director, at Lawcomm Solicitors look at the steps you can take to help reduce stress and make the process of purchasing your home run more smoothly.

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

88 FTB’s fast food Looking for the most delicious Christmas pud or the best value bubbly? We look at the top seasonal fayre from the UK’s supermarkets and highlight just what we think will make the perfect festive lunch.

90 Mortgage Clinic Michael Bennison, Managing Director at Bennison Brown, answers your financial related questions.

104 A First Time Buyer’s Guide to Conveyancing Sarah Clancy, conveyancer and trainee solicitor at Prince Evans Solicitors LLP, explains how it works.

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

114 20 Questions We ask 20 quick-fire questions to a property expert, and in this issue Andrew Peglau, Interim Assistant Director of Marketing at Peabody, is in the spotlight

92 Finance Money can be one of the trickiest things to talk about and can cause endless problems in a relationship.

Kay Hill asks the experts how couples can learn to communicate more effectively about financial matters.

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LETTERS

Mailbox MORTGAGE MATTERS I am about to purchase my first property and I am really excited as I have wanted to get on the property ladder for a long time. However, as a first time buyer I am not clear as to which mortgage would be best for me. My friends who have recently bought their own properties recommend a fixed-rate mortgage, but I don’t know.

Rachel Chorley FTB: We are really pleased that you are buying your first property and we understand how confusing mortgages can be. For any first time buyer it can be very hard to budget, and it is important that you are aware of what you will be paying and when, so you can budget around your repayments. A fixed-rate mortgage will stay the same rate for a set time, usually between two and five years, whatever happens to the base rate (which is set by the Bank of England). After that set time has passed, the rate reverts to the lender’s standard variable rate. You can then usually renegotiate this rate with the lender. This option is good for you as a first time buyer as you will know exactly how much your mortgage will cost for that set period of time, and you can then budget your finances accordingly.

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

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE WITH ME? My husband and I are soon going to be making an offer on our first flat. I was wondering, what do we need to take with us to do this as I have heard from other people that you have to take lots of different information along with you?

Antonia Lawson FTB: There is an essential list of things that you will need to take with you when going to put an offer in on a property. The first will be a proof of identity which you can show in the form of a passport or driving licence. You should bring proof of funds and this can be done by showing a copy of your mortgage offer.

Also include a recent bank statement which will show that you can fund the deposit you will be putting down. Basically you need to prove that you are who you say you are, you live at the address you currently live at and that you have the funds to meet the offer.

LENGTH OF A MORTGAGE OFFER I recently managed to successfully get a mortgage offer but I am not 100% sure on how long this is valid for? Will it eventually expire which then means I have to go through the process all again?

Steven Gilbert-Cook FTB: A mortgage offer is not everlasting and will only be valid for the period of time that is

CAN I GET A MORTGAGE WITH SOMEONE ELSE? I am looking at buying a property with my friend. This will involve us getting a mortgage together but we are unsure of our options and what would be the best mortgage for us.

Amber Webb

This issue’s star letter prize wins an Addis slimline X Wing airer and laundry basket, worth £40. The compact airer, with adjustable wings for multiple drying positions, is ideal for flat drying of delicates and fits in the bath for when space is limited. The collapsible laundry basket folds flat and can easily be stored away and features convenient carry handles. addis.co.uk

FTB: Nearly all lenders will offer joint mortgages, which you will find in two different forms. A joint tenancy mortgage is when two or more people have equal rights to the property being bought. If one person were to pass away, their share would go to the other

specified by your lender. Not all lenders give the same validity period so you will need to check this carefully with your specific lender. This information should be easily found within the terms and conditions of the mortgage offer.

You must ensure that completion takes place before this expiry date, as the offer will become invalid after this and it will be null and void, meaning you will indeed have to start all over again.

person on the mortgage. A tenants in common mortgage is when two or more people take out a mortgage but the split isn’t legally required to be equal on all sides. In this case, they can leave their part of the property to someone else in their Will. For both types of joint mortgage, if one person wanted to sell the house then you would both have to agree before this could happen.

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

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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 shout at the TV. Yup, I’m one of those people. I’m sure there are loads of us “shouters” out there, but my wife has noticed an increase in the frequency of this to such an extent that she asked me the other day whether I thought the TV was a two-way medium. Now that I would love.

The reason for this – the news. The gut-wrenching, eye-bulging, teeth-grinding pantomime that is our political representatives slouching, bluffing and jostling for position being reported to me on every bulletin. And all of this political hair-pulling and backbiting is doing us no favours in the world of property.

Figures from Nationwide report that the recent fall in house prices is most likely due to the politcal and economic uncertainty of... I can’t even say the word any more. Furthermore, it seems to be London and the South East that are pulling the prices down. There is still growth around the country – the most in Northern Ireland – but much of that growth has slowed and with the report apparently confirming a fall of 1.7% in London and the South East, it’s pulling the UK average down. Typical Southerners!

I say that as I myself live in the South East and there seems to be a slightly more pessimistic attitude to the market down here than elsewhere in the country. That said, there’s also the opinion that some certainty over Brexit will encourage foreign investment back into the capital.

We’ll see.

So what does that mean for the first time buyer market?

Understandably, many purchasers have been putting off making their big first move on to the ladder until after Brexit. The trouble is that it’s been dragging on so long that there’s now huge inertia in the market.

For me, supply is another factor to consider. As many first time buyers will be considering new build homes, we must try to imagine what we will be shopping for in the near future. Now if you listen to the Government, they’ll happily sing the song that there have been more new home completions than at any time over the past 11 years. What they will be less boastful about is that, according to figures from The Housing Ministry, new home “starts” are actually down. Of course, those already under construction will continue to filter on to the market over the next year or so, but my concern is that the big developers are clearly kicking their heels and less willing to commit to big new developments in the wake of such current uncertainty.

So what does that mean for you, the first time buyer? Well, of course, nobody could blame you for just sitting tight until our wonderful politicians sort out some kind of feasible plan going forward (good luck with that!).

Perhaps your stoic pause on making your first jump on the rung has already paid off. At the time of writing, inflation has fallen to 1.7%, the lowest in nearly three years, making it less likely for any interest rate hikes, and if it remains at this level or falls further there may even be a cut in interest rates – bad for savers but great news for us borrowers!

I’m not one for long-term predictions; instead I try to protect myself from nasty surprises. First and foremost, your consideration is that you are purchasing a “home”. If it goes up in value then lucky you.

The most important tip, however, is to remember that this is a long-term purchase. I always try to borrow money as cheaply as I can and protect myself from fluctuations by fixing my mortgage.

If rates get cut soon then I will be paying a little over the odds, but I will still sleep happily at night knowing I can afford the payments, whatever happens, for the next four years of my fixed term. You might choose to take a more risky approach but I will leave you with one further piece of advice; buy a home you’re happy to be stuck with – for now and at least the medium term. No matter what happens, you will be living in a home you love. Good luck!

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FTB LOVES

It’s the season of giving, so here’s a bumper issue of FTB Loves which we hope will inspire you. Whether it’s what’s hot in the shops or online, we are always on the lookout for exciting and innovative new ideas and accessories. Here are our favourites this issue

‘Twas the night before Christmas

Christmas Eve is the most exciting night of the festive holiday for young children.

From leaving a treat out for Santa and Rudolph to hanging up their stockings, the anticipation can be hard to contain!

We love these Christmas Eve boxes from Asda, which are the perfect treat for getting everyone in the festive mood. We recommend filling your boxes with some fluffy socks, and some hot chocolate sachets and popcorn, before sitting down to watch a Christmas movie and enjoying Christmas Eve together.

Christmas Eve box, £2, George Home george.com

o o k er C h c u o One T ily is a nightly Cooking dinner for your fam at work, it can day long a r afte but ty, essi nec t to do. Lakeland’s wan you g thin often be the last tifunctional one-pot Mini Multi Cooker is a mul for making quick and fect per is kitchen utensil that your ingredients, convenient meals. Simply add leave to cook, and e mm gra pro select the correct the things that on s focu allowing you more time to pot is easy to k -stic non the tion matter. Not to men Lakeland’s with es com remove and wash up, and tee. three-year guaran (1.8L), £49.99, Lakeland Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker lakeland.co.uk

Kellogg’s Bowls…

They’re Great!

These brilliantly bold porcelain bowls from Studio feature retro prints of all your favourite cereals from your childhood.

Whether you were a Corn Flakes king, or you preferred the “snap, crackle and pop” of Rice Krispies, these bowls are sure to bring back fond memories of your childhood breakfasts. They are also microwave and dishwasher safe, making them the perfect addition to any home.

Set of four porcelain Kellogg’s bowls, £19.99, Studio studio.co.uk

Sharpen up your hedgehog knowledge

Whether you’re a keen gardener, or you simply want to know more about wildlife, this book is a great inclusion for your shelves. How Can I Help Hedgehogs from Helen Bostock and Sophie Collins, in association with the Royal Horticultural Society, has tips and tricks for turning your garden into a haven for wildlife. Bursting with easy and low-cost ideas as well as fascinating facts, it will help you make a real difference to not only encourage, but also maintain a wildlifefriendly space.

How Can I Help Hedgehogs, £14.99, published by Mitchell Beazley in association with the Royal Horticultural Society Available online and in all good bookstores.

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FTB LOVES

There is nothing quite like the feeling of fresh sheets on the bed, and what better way to prepare yourself for the winter season than adding some jolly bedding. Show off your Christmas spirit in style with this Scandi-inspired duvet set, which is the perfect way to add festive cheer to your bedroom.

They will make you love cuddling underneath the duvet and keeping the cold winter nights at bay.

Scandi Woodland duvet set, from £7.99, Studio studio.co.uk

Silent

Night

Highland - Fling Your Feet Up

Putting your feet up after a long day at work is always a favourite way to unwind. Whether you’re curling up with a glass of wine and a book, or tucking into some snacks and the latest episode of your favourite boxset, it is important to make time for yourself. Hamish the Highland Cow footstool makes your “me time” fun and exciting again. The “udder-ly” adorable footstool is a great accessory for any home. The synthetic fur is super soft, providing comfort for the whole family.

Hamish the Highland Cow footstool, £79, RedCandy redcandy.co.uk

Food for Thought

Moving into your first home is a costly experience, and sometimes you just want to treat yourself. Now you can get takeaway food from highstreet bakeries, restaurants and chains for a fraction of the cost, plus it’s good for the environment too! Each year in the UK, 10 million tonnes of food is thrown away.

Now thanks to the app Too Good to Go, at the end of each day, businesses can sell their leftover food at reduced prices, allowing you to enjoy restaurant food for less, while cutting down on the level of food waste.

Available in the Apple App Store and in Google Play for Android – simply search “Too Good To Go”

going und erground The London Underground “roundel” is as eye-catching as it is iconic, and now you can brighten up your home with this internationally recognised feature of the capital. The London Underground Lightbox can be either freestanding or wall mounted. It comes with 10 interchangeable station signs, including the classic ‘Mind the Gap’ slogan. This quirky lamp is totally timeless and will bring a touch of London charm to your home.

London Underground Lightbox, £35, London Transport Museum ltmuseum.co.uk

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Homepage LIVING

All is calm … All is bright There is nothing quite like the excitement of putting up your Christmas tree with friends and family. But why not break with tradition and make a festive statement? Trim your tree in a kaleidoscope of colourful baubles using bold blues, rich reds and pretty pinks and your tree will be a bright and eye-catching centrepiece!

Caravan bauble, £8, John Lewis & Partners

Unlit Brunswick Spruce tree, £199; Hendricks leather accent chair, £749; Belsay Rug, £320; Campfire garden birds fig and copper wrap, £4; Campfire midnight star copper wrap, £5; Campfire cranberry Kraft wrap, £5; Campfire luggage tags, £3; copper foil gift tags, £2; navy Kraft gift wrap, 5m, £4; gold glitter gift tags, £2; tree ornaments, from £4; John Lewis & Partners

Octopus bauble, £8, Paperchase

Beer bauble, £6, Paperchase

Giraffe bauble, £10, John Lewis & Partners

Digger bauble, £10, John Lewis & Partners

Lemon bauble, £6, Oliver Bonas

Game controller bauble, £2, George Home

5ft rainbow tree, £40, Argos Ladybird bauble, £8, John Lewis & Partners Chilli bauble, £2.99, TK Maxx LED 7ft Igora Christmas tree, £125; B&Q

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Homepage LIVING Console bauble, £8, Paperchase

Carnival mask bauble, £3.99, TK Maxx

Aubergine bauble, £8, John Lewis & Partners

Almond milk bauble, £8, Paperchase

Balloon dog bauble, £5, John Lewis & Partners Frog bauble, £3.99, TK Maxx

Globe bauble, £4, John Lewis & Partners

Broccoli bauble, £5, Paperchase

Christmas tree, £40; gold Partridge cushion, £10; reversible merry cushion, £12; faux fur throw, £45; nutcrackers, from £12; tree decorations, from £2; small lanterns, £5; large lanterns, £10; tree topper, £8; Matalan Pickle bauble, £4, Paperchase

T-Rex bauble, £8, John Lewis & Partners

Flamingo bauble, £2, George Home Camera bauble, £2, George Home

Christmas tree, £40; cushions, from £10; faux fur throw, £50; LED baubles, £8 each; tree decorations, from £2; feather garland, £10; gift wrap, from £2.50; feather vase, £10; LED dome, £12; tealight holders, £6 each; iridenscent plate, £10; Ivy glass pendant droplet light, £60; Matalan C ON TA C T S » Argos argos.co.uk » George Home asda.com » John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com » Matalan matalan.co.uk » Oliver Bonas oliverbonas.com » Paperchase Paperchase.com » TK Maxx tkmaxx.com » B&Q diy.com

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Homepage LIVING

‘Influence Me’ is a podcast by Shanie Ryan (@Shanie_Ryan). Available at Apple Podcast, Spotify and wherever people listen to their favourite shows.

At home with:

Shanie Ryan and Tony Sinclair TV and radio presenter Shanie Ryan and her partner Tony Sinclair both have a passion for property. After buying their first home that hadn’t been touched for 30 years, they set about transforming the damp and dingy one bedroom apartment into a contemporary two bedroom home that certainly had the wow factor! They loved the renovation work they did on their new home and decided to start His & Hers Renovations and Interiors. They talk to Lynda Clark about how it all began, their plans for the future and give some useful advice for first time buyers FTB: Tell us about your first step on the property ladder.

SR/TS: When we started looking around we could only afford the worst property but on the best street and that actually was a positive. We searched for about a year before the market went crazy and missed out on a few places that we liked.

We looked at about 60 to 70 properties and made around 20 offers and we were gazumped more than a few times

which was very upsetting! Eventually we found a one bedroom flat which had been left untouched for about 30 years and was in need of some serious work. It was in a Georgian mansion, which had originally been a British military academy.

We bought what would have been the old service quarters and it had its own front door, which was nice, and large communal gardens. Tony had desperately wanted a garage and a place with no damp but it had

“DON’T BE AFRAID TO GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY. RESEARCH THE AREA WHERE YOU WANT TO BUY AND LOOK AT AREAS WHERE YOU ARE LIKELY TO SEE THE MOST AMOUNT OF GROWTH”

no garage and lots of damp!! In fact, the surveyor said it was the worst case of damp he had seen in 25 years so it wasn’t the best start. We had to spend a lot of money on damp proofing and as we were on a limited budget we had to do most of the remaining work ourselves.

FTB: How did you manage to do all the work needed to completely renovate your first home?

SR/TS: We had to teach ourselves, so it was really trial and error! We watched loads of YouTube videos and Tony is great at visualising and planning. We only got in experts and specialists when absolutely necessary. We managed to keep the beautiful external period charm but created a very modern and contemporary interior which worked very well. It had just five rooms, so we added a home office

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Homepage LIVING and a utility room in the very, very large hallway. We then created a second bedroom by moving the kitchen into an open plan kitchen/living space. Everyone was so impressed when we had finished and we were delighted that we had added about £130,000 to the value of it. It was extremely hard work and we had no social life as we invested so much time into what was “hard labour” but it was worth it in the end.

FTB: What happened next?

SR/TS: We decided to buy another design and build property, which we rented out. It was in the same area but was riddled with asbestos so again we had to get a specialist in to remove it as it is so dangerous. It was hard work but we have made money on it and by then we really had the “bug”. We put photos of the properties on social media and we started to get enquiries from people who wanted us to project manage their home improvements. They didn’t have the budget to hire a top interior designer but still wanted a home that was unique and special. That is how we started the business and it has grown from there.

FTB: Do you have a favourite style for the interiors you design?

TS: Shanie likes classic contemporary, which I like as well, but I also like to experiment more with pops of colour. We always deliver a bespoke service and during any build we promise to “Never bring you a problem, only ever a solution.” We take on a limited number of clients as we both have other work commitments and we like to give 100% attention to detail. We endeavour to create a home that is stylish, comfortable and practical.

FTB: Tell us about some of your projects.

SR/TS: The Dulwich Village project was very exciting and we are proud of what we achieved. It was a three-storey, five bedroom Victorian house where the owners wanted a bespoke design which would conserve the era the house was built in but create a very modern, contemporary home inside. To keep it in line with the period, we designed and installed wood panelling in the hall and marble and limestone fireplaces in the dining room and sitting room and we restored the original tiled entrance hall. It really worked well and was a project we both thoroughly enjoyed.

FTB: What are your other day jobs?

SR: My latest project is my new podcast called Influence Me. It is a series of conversations with some of the UK’s biggest influencers – very inspiring people who will be talking about everything from mental health to fitness, from women in business to being entrepreneurial. I was originally a

“DON’T RUSH INTO BUYING... MAKE A LIST OF EVERYTHING YOU ARE LOOKING FOR IN A HOME AND WORK ON WHAT YOU REALLY NEED AND WANT. IF YOU TICK MOST OF THE BOXES THAT IS GREAT, AS YOU WILL ALWAYS NEED TO COMPROMISE” professional dancer and toured the world as a backing dancer for artists like Cheryl Cole, Tiny Tempah and Kelly Rowland. I am a fully qualified beauty expert and currently feature regularly on QVC as well as presenting on the radio for Capital Xtra FM. I have done so many different things and enjoyed them all as I love a challenge and I just want to continue doing all the things I love.

TS: I work as an educational mentor at a special needs school which I really enjoy, and work with young people who all have different problems and issues. I was a professional footballer – I’ve hung my boots up now but I’m still a massive supporter.

FTB: What are your plans for the future?

SR/TS: The plan is to buy and renovate our third property in three years so we can effectively use the rental incomes to live mortgage-free on our main residence. Our investments are growing in value and we want to keep growing the business. Tony wants to go on a carpentry course as that will tie in very well with what we do and it’s very hard to find a good carpenter. We want to buy and move into a house but we

can’t run before we can walk and we want to grow but not too quickly. We take huge pride in what we do and always insist we get everything just right.

FTB: What advice do you have for first time buyers?

SR: Don’t rush into buying – it is far better to view 50 or even 100 properties before you find the one for you. When you do find the right property, you will feel it immediately.

Make a list of everything you are looking for in a home and work on what you really need and want. If you tick most of the boxes that is great, as you will always need to compromise.

TS: Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

Research the area where you want to buy and look at areas where you are likely to see the most amount of growth. Take Croydon for example, it is an area that is being regenerated, but you can still find some affordable homes there – and if Westfield Shopping Centre moves in eventually it will really be on the map! hisandhersrenovationsandinteriors.com @HisandhersRenovationsInteriors

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Homepage FIRST RUNG

The

HOUSE HUNTER

What we found…

THE COMMUTER’S DREAM The Croft Binfield, Berkshire

FROM £312,000*

THE GREEN AND PLEASANT The Staging Post Hounslow, West London

FROM £80,625*

This month FTB goes on the hunt with Natalie and Danny Levy, who are after a new home with one or more bedrooms in Berkshire or west London

PROFILE

Name Natalie Levy, 34, and Danny Levy, 40 Occupations Dietician, Public Relations Manager Maximum budget £310,000 Requirements A one or two bedroom home within commuting distance of Windsor and west London, with outdoor space and close to shops and local amenities

What they wanted…

We have been renting together in Windsor for three years and would really like to get our feet on the property ladder with our first home. Ideally, we don’t want to move too far from where we are, as our friends and family are scattered around Berkshire. Danny works in London and currently commutes in, while I work in Windsor; so as long as we’re both able to get to work easily and still see our local friends and families without too much fuss, we’ll be happy. It’s really important to us that we have some outdoor space that we can sit out in and enjoy the sunshine in the summer, and that we are close to shops and places to eat and meet friends.

Saying that, though, we’d still like to be somewhere where we feel like we can get away from our busy lives and get some peace and quiet! We have saved a deposit of just over £30,000, and our budget is around £310,000.”

Surrounded by lush Berkshire countryside and with good commuting links to London, the village of Binfield offers a best-ofboth-worlds lifestyle. This boutique development comprises 24 two, three and four bedroom houses and 16 two bedroom apartments, some available through shared ownership. The homes are stylishly appointed, with integrated appliances, en suites and parking.

The Croft is a short drive from the village with shops and amenities, while Bracknell, for supermarkets, shopping and trains to London Waterloo, is two miles away.

With 40 acres of parkland on the doorstep at Lampton Park, these new homes in Hounslow create the feeling of countryside living in west London. The contemporary one, two and three bedroom homes have been designed with a range of layouts, and feature open-plan living areas that open to a private balcony or terrace.

Travel connections are excellent: from Hounslow Central, central London can be reached in 30 minutes by tube. Alternatively, as the homes lie on the outskirts of the capital, Berkshire is just a short drive away.

shanlyhomes.com

nhgsales.com

*Shared ownership also available, prices to be confirmed

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £322,500

What they thought…

This is a peaceful location – and one we know and like. There’s plenty of countryside and places to explore on summer weekends, but it’s also easy to get to the supermarkets, do some shopping and eat out. The commute into London is pretty reasonable – it’s just over an hour from Bracknell, which would suit Danny perfectly – especially as he’s only in the office a few times a week! The properties are really pretty – we really like the traditional design elements of the exteriors, as well as those lovely sleek interiors!”

We didn’t think that living in London could be so leafy and peaceful!

These apartments are practically in the park – and they’re also only 15 miles from Windsor, which really would make things very easy for us.

Plus, we would have the benefit of being able to get into central London for a bit of night life very easily. We love the look of these bright and airy apartments – the natural light is great, and we really like the idea of having a balcony – maybe we’d even try to grow a bit of veg.”

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Homepage FIRST RUNG

THE BOUTIQUE COLLECTION Elmwood Gate Maidenhead

FROM £280,000

THE UP-AND-COMING Reynard Mills Brentford, West London

FROM £90,625*

First choice!

N

THE TALK OF THE TOW Renaissance Reading, Berkshire

The highly sought-after town of Maidenhead is home to this new collection of 59 one and two bedroom apartments. The homes have been beautifully designed, with bright, open-plan living areas, fitted kitchens, balconies to most apartments, and parking for all. These stylish properties lie just outside the town centre, with access to a good range of shops, restaurants and amenities.

Transport links are also great, with Elizabeth Line services soon to take commuters into London Paddington in 19 minutes. Eton and Windsor are in easy reach.

This collection of contemporary one, two and three bedroom homes lies within a peaceful residential setting in west London, close to green spaces and just a 10-minute walk from Brentford station. Close to the leafy London suburbs of Ealing and Chiswick, and a 20-minute walk from a beautiful stretch of the Thames, Brentford is an increasingly popular part of the capital, with a number of cafes, shops and bars close by. Close to Blondin and Boston Manor Parks, the homes sit around landscaped gardens, and all feature private outdoor space.

shanlyhomes.com

nhgsales.com *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £362,500

These apartments are in a good spot!

Maidenhead is a great town that we’ve both been to a lot. There’s lots going on in the area, and there are some lovely villages, including Bray, very close by. It’s also really easy to get around from here, so we’d both be laughing with our commutes. As Maidenhead sits on the new train line, getting into London would be so easy! We like the townhouse-style design, and after living in quite a small flat, those spacious living rooms really do look very appealing.”

We’d never heard of Brentford before, but we are really interested in this as a location. It’s fairly close to the Thames, which would be great for us – we love the river and exploring the riverbank on our bikes, whatever the weather. It’s also not too far into London, which makes it easier for travelling out for my work in Windsor, and of course for us to visit our families, and vice versa. These are lovely, modern homes and it seems like there’s plenty to see and do in the local area. A very exciting prospect!”

FROM £235,000

rt n of Reading is just a sho The lively Berkshire tow room bed e thre range of one to drive from this fantastic With an . ses hou m roo four bed apartments, and three and culture, , ent inm erta ent for es niti excellent array of opportu ll as we as ch more in the town, history, shopping and mu is this s, link ter mu and good com natural beauty close by s ilie fam and als ion fess young pro a fantastic location for living in n der mo h wit ed ign des alike. The homes here are porary fitted n-plan interiors, contem mind, with spacious ope designated also re’s le flooring. The kitchens and parquet-sty er homes. larg the to s age ted gar parking as well as integra bellway.co.uk

THE NEXT STEP

“We really do love the look of these properties, and are excited at the prospect of moving to a new area and making a fresh start with a new home. We already have a mortgage offer in principle, and now we have registered our interest, we hope that we can move quite quickly from here.”

We have to admit that Reading wasn’t on our radar originally, but now we’ve seen Renaissance, we’re sold on the idea. It’s a super location, not too far from where we are now. And of course, with such good rail links into London, the commute will be a cinch for Danny.

Reading is a great town, which feels quite city-like – there really is so much to do, from museums and cinema to gigs and theatre shows. But we love that these homes are just outside of the town centre, meaning we can easily retreat to our own bit of peace and quiet. We’d also be quite close to the river, as well as shops – and the station is within walking distance.”

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ADVICE

Jeremy Marcus is the Sales and Marketing Director at Higgins Homes PLC. He has an extensive background in property and has seen many changes to the property market during a career spanning more than two decades, including the challenges that face first time buyers

Q

We are looking for our first family home away from the noise of London but that still offers good commuter links into the City. We need three bedrooms and ideally would like a village location, but we don’t want this to be at the expense of a long commute home each night. Is this actually possible when we are also looking for good value for money?

spaces and Britain’s newest racecourse. The new Bond Street development is a great place to shop, full of luxury and high street brands such as John Lewis together with seven riverside restaurants and a fivescreen cinema.

With a train direct to Liverpool Street

Jeremy Marcus, Sales and Marketing Director, Higgins Homes

station in as little as 35 minutes, good schools and an abundance of green, open space, the villages surrounding Chelmsford have much to offer families looking to buy their first family home. Fresher air and value for money combine to make this one of the most popular areas for house buyers.

A

Essex has a lot to offer families looking for more space, a tranquil location and good commuter links into the capital. However, you need to choose your location wisely because your journey into London very much depends on exactly where you are situated. Take your time to research each location and the different ways you can travel. This is a complicated search with many elements to consider, one of them being how long it will take you to get to the nearest train station and what public transport options are available to get you there.

Essex is made up of a number of villages, many offering a lovely community feel, ideal for families. Once you have narrowed down your search on your commuting options, consider the lifestyle elements that you need.

The county has much to offer, with that rare blend of both countryside and city living.

One of the major requirements for families when looking to move home are the schooling options. With an excellent selection of state and private schools in Essex, there are many possibilities to consider, which is why many families put down roots and only move once their children have finished their education.

There are a number of attractive villages throughout Essex where residents can enjoy a selection of quality restaurants, coffee shops, pubs and unique boutiques.

The city of Chelmsford is easily accessible and has everything a modern metropolis demands such as high street stores, creative

The combination of excellent commuter links to London with an established and quiet setting, has made Broomfield, near Parva Green Chelmsford in Essex, a popular option with buyers. There is a range of house types, including a selection of three and four bedroom homes, at Parva Green built by local housebuilder Higgins Homes. This boutique development of just 27 properties offers a smart and contemporary specification, with energy-efficient features so that the homes are both comfortable and luxurious. The design of each property is unique, which gives them character and offers a good choice for a range of buyers. The interior design has been carefully considered, and combines urban chic with countryside charm to offer the best of both worlds.

Included within each property are luxury brand names such as fitted kitchens by Commodore Kitchens, a range of appliances by Smeg and contemporary sanitaryware by Ideal Standard.

The houses will all benefit from private rear gardens and parking, which are also on the wish list for many buyers. Located within reach of a good selection of local schools, an abundance of green open space and within easy reach of the capital, Parva Green is ideally placed to enjoy the best of countryside living with the convenience of excellent commuter links. Prices from £430,000. Both Help to Buy and part exchange are available on selected plots [terms and conditions apply]. Parva Green is more than 80% sold and has homes available for immediate occupation.

Call the sales team on 020 8003 6528 or email parvagreen@higginshomes.co.uk

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! n o i t c a r t t A r a t S

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THE VIEW

With a schedule that is unbelievably hectic, Laura Hamilton manages to fly all over the world filming A Place in the Sun for Channel 4 and run her very successful coffee shop and deli, Lord Roberts on the Green. Lynda Clark caught up with her to hear all about it Photos: Georgie Gavin and Oli Guiste

L

aura Hamilton is an expert when it comes to juggling! Her lifestyle is beyond busy but somehow, she fits it all in. She is always smiling, looks amazing and has two gorgeous children, Rocco and Tahlia – I really want to know what her secret of how she copes with everything is!

I met up with her at her thriving coffee shop, Lord Roberts on the Green, which was packed with people even at 9am. It’s a gorgeous space offering artisan produce including vegan and gluten-free options and also caters for weddings, baby showers and birthdays, plus they run a variety of different special events.

Laura is pretty special and she was only 19 when she bought her first house and has developed and bought and sold many places ever since. Her career has seen her working both in front and behind the cameras and she has also set herself some really gruelling challenges. Originally from Kent, Laura’s mother worked in a school and her father for BT. “I was always into something when I was a child.

I loved dancing and I had lots of hobbies, which kept me very busy. In fact, I did so many activities at school my teachers told me I was going to burn myself out, but I’m still very determined and life is too short to sit still.”

She moved to Dartford Grammar School to take her A-levels and said, “The school was far more academic than my previous one and they expected everyone to do well and go on to university. The work didn’t worry me, but I was unsure whether I really wanted to go to university, as I just didn’t feel it was for me. I knew I wanted to go into television, so I

"IF YOU WANT TO MAKE MONEY ON A PROPERTY IT IS NOT THE SELLING PRICE BUT THE DEAL YOU GET ON THE PURCHASE PRICE THAT WILL MAKE THE DIFFERENCE"

wrote to loads of TV channels and was eventually offered a job as a runner on Channel 4, before I actually took my exams. I decided to defer my university course and take the job, which turned out to the be the best decision I could have ever made. After a year, I was promoted to assistant floor manager and it was a great experience.”

While Laura was still at school, she had always taken on part-time work. “As soon as I was 16 and could take a job, I went to work at Peter Jones in Sloane Square and then, when Bluewater opened, I moved to John Lewis which was a lot nearer home.

I had always saved my money with the intention of buying a car, and when I got the job at Channel 4, I still saved as much as I could.

"I had a wonderful life at home with my parents but I had a real desire to buy somewhere of my own.

My friends were all living the typical student life: in debt, going out every night, drinking and having fun.

So it was a scary decision to make.”

Laura had left Channel 4 at this time and was working for a shopping channel. “I only had three months of pay slips but I managed to get a mortgage and bought my first apartment for £100,000. My deposit was £5,500 and I had saved for my legal fees too. My mum gave me a washing machine and my dad bought me the carpets, but otherwise I did it entirely on my own! It was in a great location, less than two minutes from the station and had a lovely garden, but it was a real 1970s granny's flat. Even so, it was mine!’

Then the worst happened – the shopping channel that Laura was working for went bust and she lost her job. “There I was with no job, a mortgage and a flat to maintain. My only option was to rent it out and move back in with my parents. I kept it for three years and eventually sold it to my brother for quite a discounted price.”

Laura then decided to go freelance and, during this time, she bought a house in Forest Hill in south east London. “It was a three bedroom, end-ofterrace Victorian house and I bought it for £270,000,

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THE VIEW before spending another £30,000 on it.

Unfortunately, when I came to sell it, it was at the time of the property crash but, even though I only got £365,000, I still made a profit.” She then bought a three bedroom semi for £250,000, opposite her parent’s home, renovated it and sold it less than a year later for £385,000.

It was at this point that Laura met her future husband, Alex, and eventually moved in with him. They bought a home together, which they loved, but they had always wanted to buy a home either on the Webb Estate or Woodcote Park Estate in Purley. “My husband grew up in Purley and he always wanted to buy a home on either of these estates, as they are in a prime location. We had to make a decision whether we would buy an in-between home until we could find our dream one, but we had to weigh this up with the cost of Stamp Duty. We started to look around, but as I was heavily pregnant it really wasn’t the best time to look.”

Then, out of the blue, a local agent called up to say there was a house which he thought we would like, but they wanted a quick sale. The house hadn’t been lived in for a year and there were another couple and two developers looking at it as well. It was crazy, as we loved the house, even though it needed a lot of work, plus I was two days past my due date so we were cutting it really fine. We obviously wanted to get a full structural survey before we went ahead!

In the end, we completed in three weeks, but couldn’t move in as we needed to get so much work done. We put our furniture in storage and got the builders in.”

Laura project-managed the work, even though she had just had her new baby son and was still working hard. “We created

a fourth bedroom and reconfigured the landing and created a sitting room and games room in what was originally the garage. This is our forever home, as it is everything we ever dreamed of. I travel so much it has been hard to project-manage everything but we got there in the end.

Since then we have restored the swimming pool, which the children loved during the summer. They are both excellent swimmers so it seemed only right that they could actually swim in their own pool in the garden. Until Rocco and Tahlia went to school they always travelled with me when I was filming abroad, but now they can only come during the holidays. I now have a wonderful PA, Georgie, who helps with everything I do and is also there for the school run when I am away. We got planning permission and built a gorgeous little home for her in the garden, which is completely self-contained but works really well as she is so close by.”

Laura discovered that the local Post Office, that she often used was going to close. “The tenants who ran the Post Office told me that the owners were going to sell the building and they would be homeless.

They had decided their best option was to move abroad and asked if I could help them find a home in Portugal. It never crossed my mind what the outcome to the story might be – I just thought I was helping them and eventually negotiated a good deal on a property for them. Then there was a meeting to announce to the local community that the Post Office was closing and naturally everyone was shocked.

Everyone wanted it to stay open and even tried to club together to buy it.

“The problem was it wasn’t just the Post Office for sale, there was also potential to create a two bedroom apartment and a three bedroom semi-detached house – it was a big project! I was so upset that I went home from the meeting and told Alex, my husband, that I wanted to buy it and open a deli and coffee shop plus develop the house and flat. He thought

"I HAD ALWAYS SAVED MY MONEY WITH THE INTENTION OF BUYING A CAR AND WHEN I GOT THE JOB AT CHANNEL 4,I STILL SAVED AS MUCH AS I COULD. I HAD A WONDERFUL LIFE AT HOME WITH MY PARENTS BUT I HAD A REAL DESIRE TO BUY SOMEWHERE OF MY OWN." 22 First Time Buyer December 2019/January 2020

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THE VIEW I was completely mad and as this was a commercial renovation I knew I was really out of my comfort zone.

The owners knew I was from A Place in the Sun and when I showed them my proposals they loved them. After speedy negotiations, it was ours in just three weeks and then the work began.

There are so many rules and regulations when you open a shop selling food, especially with health and safety, so that was a big learning curve.

Eventually we opened and called it Lord Roberts on the Green. We have been very particular about the look and design of it as the building has been here since 1903, so we wanted to keep in line with the history of the place. It has been a huge success and we now have 27 part-time staff and are open seven days a week. We have such a variety to offer and we do a lot of vegan and gluten-free food as well as it’s becoming more and more popular and we change the menu to keep it seasonal. We also raise money for charity and put on special events and cater for weddings, baby showers and birthdays. We have a supper club once a month and with Christmas coming up we are holding a special class to learn how to make a Christmas wreath. Everything we do is always a sell-out and although it’s hard work it really is worth it.”

Laura project-managed the renovations of the house and flat which she sold, but the Post Office didn’t make a profit and was costing them money, so they had to close it.

“It was a great shame but we had to make a decision based on the business as it didn’t even break even. The coffee shop and deli were financially supporting the Post Office and the figures didn’t stack up. We are now concentrating on the coffee shop and deli and we created a beautiful conservatory area, and there's a garden which is lovely when it is warm. We are very much at the heart of the community and even though I am away filming I take a very big role in the running of it. What is also so special is that local estate agents now use us in their marketing material because we are so popular and well-known and it is a real plus-point for anyone moving to the area.”

Laura flies around the world filming A Place in the Sun and is soon off to Spain, and the family are going skiing at Christmas time as they are all keen ski enthusiasts. It is also a question of ‘watch this space’ as Laura is in talks to present another property show next year. “It’s all very exciting and I can’t say much at the moment but it looks like things are going to work out really well and I am looking forward to a new challenge.”

When it comes to advice for first time buyers, Laura is a true expert, having bought, renovated and sold so many different properties. “At the moment, the

"IT IS HARD TO RAISE A DEPOSIT BUT IF YOU CAN MOVE BACK IN WITH PARENTS OR FAMILY WHILE YOU SAVE, THEN TAKE UP THE OPPORTUNITY AS RENTING IS TOTALLY DEAD MONEY" only people who are buying are first timers so don’t be afraid to negotiate – be cheeky and see what you can get. If you want to make money on a property it is not the selling price but the deal you get on the purchase price that will make the difference. It is hard to raise a deposit but if you can move back in with parents or family while you save, then take up the opportunity as renting is totally dead money. If you buy with friends or family then it is very important to get a legal contract drawn up first so everyone is protected. If you want to live in a particular area and it is too expensive then think again and look in a different location where there are cheaper options. You can buy a

place and rent it out until you can afford to buy in the place you really want. Look at up-and-coming areas or in a university town where there are a lot of people who want to rent. It still means you have a foot on the ladder and it makes a lot of sense.

Finally, if you need to take advantage of one of the Government schemes like Help to Buy or shared ownership then go for it.”

Laura Hamilton presents A Place in the Sun on Channel 4, alongside running her local coffee shop and deli, Lord Roberts on the Green.

lordrobertsonthegreen.com laurahamiltonofficial.com

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE UK HOMES?

EXPERT COMMENT

The dream of getting on the property ladder can, at times, seem unobtainable. However, Post Office Money’s latest survey reveals that over half of UK properties are affordable for first time buyers.

Debbie Clarke looks at what's on offer

While we have seen house price growth slow in the last year, properties can still seem particularly unaffordable for first time buyers. We know that saving for a deposit remains the most significant hurdle for young buyers to overcome in order to achieve their homeownership aspirations. It can take years of dedicated effort in order

THE FACTS AND FIGURES Post Office Money’s annual research is based on an analysis of data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and examines the affordability of 80 UK locations. The study found that 56% of properties are in areas that are affordable to first time buyers. House prices continue to rise, but, in the last year, the average price has risen by just 0.9%. This compares to an average first time buyer household income increase of 1.2%. The average house price currently sits at 5.85 times the average first time buyer income, so knowing where more affordable homes can be found is a valuable tool.

THE "HOTSPOTS" Top of the affordability charts is Blackpool, where 100% of properties are deemed to

be affordable to first time buyers who, in the North West region, have an average annual income of £40,053. Lincoln and Hull also have 100% of properties considered to be affordable. The top 10 is dominated by northern towns, including Greater Manchester’s Wigan and Oldham, although the exception is the town of Southampton.

to gather the necessary funds. There are a number of ways that prospective homeowners can reduce their time spent saving, such as taking on a fixer-upper property or looking in a cheaper area close to where they might have previously considered.

Post Office also offers two innovative products, Family Link and First Start,

THE "COLDSPOTS" Unsurprisingly, popular commuter towns in the south continue to make up the majority of the least affordable locations, with Cambridge, Woking and Surrey all notably lacking in opportunities for first time buyers. Historic cities are also difficult areas for first time buyers to get a foot on the ladder; Oxford, Cambridge and York all have 0% of properties deemed affordable to first time buyers.

which can enable buyers to get on to the ladder with a lower deposit.

Ross Hunter Post Office Money

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AFFORDABLE HOMES To support first time buyers, Post Office Money has launched an online tool (postoffice.co.uk/mortgages/deposit-calculator) to help aspiring homeowners find the most affordable areas in their desired location and map their savings journey.

Meanwhile, we’ve scoured the country and identified some great options for affordable housing, wherever it is in the country you’d like to set up home.

SOUTHAMPTON

CASE STUDY

FROM £165,000

Meridian Waterside

Help to Buy available Located along the River Itchen waterside, this stylish development consists of one, two and three bedroom apartments, including penthouse apartments with marina and river views. The apartments boast open-plan living spaces and spacious en suite bathrooms. Residents also benefit from plenty of open space, including landscaped gardens and the nearby riverside walkway and parkland. There are allocated parking spaces in the secure underground car park and excellent road and rail connections for commuters. inlandhomes.co.uk 02380 334 258

FROM £46,550*

SALFORD

The Wells, Little Hulton The historic town of Little Hulton is in close proximity to Walkden, Salford and Manchester, and is home to this development of two and three bedroom properties. The area is perfect for those with an active lifestyle, benefiting from both urban cycling and leisurely lakeside and woodland walks in nearby country parks. The properties boast a high-quality finish and include turfed gardens and allocated parking. plumlife.co.uk 0161 447 5050

Simon, 28, and Hayley, 29, from Welton, near Lincoln, had been renting a two bedroom mid-terrace home but were keen to get on to the property ladder. They were, however, uninspired by properties they had seen. Simon, an electrician, said, “We had looked at other new build properties in the area but felt they were all very bland, brick boxes and just looked the same.” They then came across The Meadows development, built by Lincolnshire-based Chestnut Homes, in the neighbouring village of Dunholme. Simon said, “We liked the mix of styles of homes that Chestnut Homes was building and the care the company was taking to create such a nice environment to live in.” The couple were among the first to reserve, and subsequently move into, their new home; a spacious three bedroom house called The Grayling at a purchase price of £279,950. They took advantage of the Help to Buy scheme, meaning that they only needed a £14,000 deposit and a £210,000 mortgage. The sales staff were really helpful in guiding them through the process. Simon said, “It hasn’t been anywhere near as stressful as we expected.” chestnuthomes.co.uk

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £133,000

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

CASE STUDY

FROM £64,000*

BLACKPOOL

The Clifton Collection Ideally situated beside the stunning coastal scenery of St Anne's beach, this impressive development consists of 40 two and three bedroom houses available through shared ownership. The development has been designed with families in mind, and the homes are generously proportioned, including plenty of outdoor space to entertain. The houses are finished to a high specification, including integrated appliances, flooring throughout and turf laid to rear gardens. Just a six-minute walk from Squires Gate railway station, the development is also well connected to local towns and cities. cliftoncollection.co.uk 0870 224 2773 *Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £160,000

FROM £60,725*

ROCHDALE

Hopwood Green, Middleton This development comprises 25 two and three bedroom houses being sold on behalf of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing. The local area offers a range of local shops, schools and excellent transport links. The development is ideal for those setting up their first home and for growing families looking for more space. The homes are offered with a high specification finish and include adjacent parking and turfed gardens. plumlife.co.uk 0161 447 5050

Ben, 30, and Victoria, 31, originally from Lincolnshire and Brighton, had been renting a two bedroom flat in Newbury. They hoped to buy in Reading, with its excellent transport links, and were prepared to make short-term sacrifices ito make this happen. Ben said, “We committed to each saving a set amount per month since Christmas 2015 and we stopped going on holidays and breaks together which were previously a big part of our life.” Ben and Victoria needed outdoor space for their French Bulldogs, Ronnie and Gus, and are looking ahead to the additional room they will need if they start a family. They found their perfect home in the form of a beautiful four bedroom, Bayswater-style townhouse. The house, in David Wilson Homes’ Hyde End Road development, was purchased using the Help to Buy scheme, which Ben said, “was a huge boost for us… frankly we wouldn’t have been able to afford such a spacious property had it not been available”. He added, “My favourite part about coming home is seeing Vicki happy that we’ve finally got a place that we can shape to be our own and we can start to put our own stamp on.” dwh.co.uk

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £173,500

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

FROM £48,000*

LIVERPOOL

Lister Gardens, Crosby

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

FROM £41,250*

Portland Wynd, Blyth

This exclusive development of just 17 one and two bedroom apartments is housed within a stylish art deco-style building. The homes, available through shared ownership with Redwing Living, feature bright, open-plan living spaces and private outdoor spaces. The seaside town of Crosby offers frequent connections to the city of Liverpool and, with its sprawling beaches and recently regenerated town centre, is increasingly popular with young professionals and families. listergardens.co.uk 0151 703 3703 *Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £120,000

A homely development, Portland Wynd has a selection of two and three bedroom houses. The properties include high specification features and fixtures as standard, including modern kitchens with brushed steel oven, hob and hood, and floor coverings throughout. They also benefit from off road parking. The lively town of Blyth is just a 20-minute drive from Newcastle city centre, but also has its own appeal, with a market three times a week and a range of shopping and entertainment spots to enjoy.

Blyth beach is also nearby and is one of the region’s most spectacular stretches of coast. riversidehomeownership.org.uk 0330 311 4828 *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £165,000

READING

FROM £269,000

Croft Gardens, Spencers Wood Help to Buy available

DERBY

FROM £189,950

Durose Country Park Help to Buy available

This desirable development, located near Reading, accommodates a collection of two, three and four bedroom houses in a sought-after location. The village of Spencers Wood offers a wide range of amenities and leisure facilities, in addition to fantastic transport links.

The development is close to junction 11 on the M4 and with the new Crossrail service coming soon at Reading train station, links to London will get even quicker. Croft Gardens also benefits from good parking allocation, a range of schemes to support first time buyers and some generous incentives including a 12-month mortgage subsidy available on selected properties.

The second phase of development at Durose Country Park, by Redrow Homes East Midlands, has been released. Two, three and four bedroom homes are available from £189,950, with the highlight being the stunning Sunningdale four bedroom house priced from £396,950. Ideal for families, the house style offers the perfect balance of shared rooms and personal space that is essential as families grow and become more independent. Open-plan areas encourage a homely atmosphere, while a separate lounge and study are ideal for quieter times. It also benefits from two en suite bathrooms, downstairs utility and cloakroom and a spacious adjoined garage.The development enjoys easy access to Derby city centre and is close to excellent local amenities.

dwh.co.uk 0330 057 3525

redrow.co.uk/developments/durose-country-park 01332 972 524

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LOCATION

HOTspot Stockport

FA M O U S R E S I D E N T S • Olympic swimmer Rebecca Adlington • Tennis Legend Fred Perry • Actress Michelle Keegan • Architect Norman Foster • Presenter Yvette Fielding • Indie band Blossoms

This industrial town, once famously portrayed in L S Lowry’s gloomy paintings, is now glowing and is the perfect destination for first time buyers looking to take their first step on the property ladder in the North West UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

Stockport is a large, popular town in Greater Manchester, just seven miles south east of Manchester city centre. Once overshadowed, it is now competing with the bright lights of the city and has become a desirable destination in its own right. The town has a long and rich history, and benefited from rapid expansion during the Industrial Revolution. This heritage is celebrated through various attractions including a national museum of hatting, a unique system of air raid tunnel shelters from World War II and a late medieval merchant’s house in the Market Place, all of which add to the town’s unique character.

The Stockport Viaduct, built in 1840, dominates the western approach to the town and its 27 Grade II listed brick arches, 34m high, carry the mainline railways from Manchester to Birmingham and London. The station also offers InterCity services to Sheffield, Liverpool, Preston, Blackpool and beyond.

Commuters benefit further from the M60 motorway, with easy access to the M56 and M62, and the A6 which offers a direct route to Manchester. The town is also conveniently located just five miles from Manchester airport.

While Stockport is clearly excellently connected, employment opportunities in the town itself should not be overlooked. With over 13,000 businesses across major employment sectors, it is little wonder that the town is increasingly appealing to first time buyers. Most

properties are outside the town centre, but Change Here, the council’s ambitious regeneration scheme, promises to see the town continue to evolve. The aim is to attract 5,000 more residents into the town centre, and following Manchester’s successful lead, developers are breathing new life into many former industrial buildings, converting warehouses and mills into modern yet unique homes.

To the north west of the town, the Four Heatons are hugely desirable, even overtaking Manchester’s Didsbury and Chorlton in popularity. Heaton Moor is arguably the most coveted. With grand Victorian homes as well as several 1940s and 1950s estates, it is home to the Heatons Sports Club and the perfect location for sports lovers. Heaton Mersey is a very green suburb and especially popular with families given its outstanding schools. Heaton Norris is mostly home to terraced and semi-detached homes and boasts the Bowerfield Open Space; a hugely popular community area. Heaton Chapel has the added appeal of its own train station but residents do pay a premium for the convenience. Other Stockport suburbs worth exploring for first time buyers include Reddish, Brinnington, Edgeley and The Cheadles.

OUT AND ABOUT Stockport offers residents a great work-life balance with a wealth of leisure facilities right on the doorstep. All the high street favourites can be found in the Merseyway Shopping Centre and The Peel Centre, with a great selection of independent stores to be explored in the suburbs.

The Produce Hall completion earlier this year has introduced nearly a dozen new food and drink outlets to service the venue’s communal dining tables.

Complementing the Produce Hall is the historic Covered Market Hall, home to 30 independent traders, along with a number of food and beverage offerings including the Bakers Vault, The Angel, Project 53, The Cracked Actor and Vinabod, with additional exciting openings proposed for 2020. For a unique experience try Where The Light Gets In, which offers a contemporary dining experience. Found on the first floor of an old coffee warehouse in Stockport Old Town, Where the Light Gets In dining room accommodates 30 guests, who are served a set menu using local, seasonal produce fresh from the farm.

Leisure facilities include Redrock Stockport, an impressive facility including a 12-screen cinema (The Light), gym, bars and restaurants alongside more historical and distinctive venues. Fans of Peaky Blinders may recognise Stockport Plaza, one of the few art deco cinemas left in the country which also hosts live music, comedy and theatre.

Stockport is the home of Robinson’s

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LOCATION

FA C T F I L E

Average property price (August 2019) – £230,347 Property breakdown* (Stockport) Detached – £391,539 Semi-detached – £244,698 Terraced – £175,412 Flat – £143,406 *According to the Land Registry House Price Index August 2019

5 REASONS WE LOVE… STOCKPORT

1 The perfect balance of city and country life 2 Plenty to do right on your doorstep 3 A choice of quality homes from traditional to modern 4 A rich and celebrated history 5 Easy access to the rest of the UK and beyond

HOMES ON THE MARKET...

OFFERTON

Hempshaw Lane Coming soon and built on the former Battersby Hat factory site on Hempshaw Lane in Offerton, Viaduct Housing Partnership will be offering two, three and four bedroom houses along with one and two bedroom apartments for affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale. This fantastic location is close to central Stockport with excellent transport links and popular schools and shops nearby.

FROM £TBC

Register your interest now at viaducthousing.com

STOCKPORT

Mersey Dynamo Brewery so it follows that the town boasts some excellent traditional British pubs.

The Arden Arms, located in the centre of town, is hugely popular for its real ales and real fires. The town centre was recently awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy. This accreditation is similar to the Blue Flag for beaches and recognises the town centre as having a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.

Residents of Stockport enjoy an abundance of green spaces including eight parks with Green Flag Awards. The town is popular with walkers, cyclists and wildlife lovers given its location just half an hour from the Peak District. Fitness fans are also well catered for with athletics, football, rugby, lacrosse, tennis and golf clubs. The Grand Central Leisure Centre houses a 50m swimming pool, where Olympic medallists including James Goddard have trained, and there are two excellent climbing centres locally too.

First time buyers with young families can look forward to an excellent choice of schools in the area with many, particularly in The Heatons, rated Outstanding by Ofsted. If you have your heart set on a particular school it is worth keeping a very close eye on the market as properties close to some schools can be snapped up fast.

There is also a great provision of secondary schools in the area so families can be confident that, once they find their dream home, Stockport will continue to provide for their changing needs.

Mersey Dynamo in Stockport is a stylish new development of two bedroom apartments available through shared ownership.

Stockport is just seven miles from Manchester City centre and the nearby railway station is well connected for trains to central London as well as Sheffield, FROM Birmingham, Liverpool and Bristol. £6 0,000* The bustling town centre has a superb selection of shops plus a diverse range of eateries including cafes, bakeries, restaurants and delis. For those who want some green space, nearby Alexandra Park offers a wide range of leisure facilities. Homes come with fully fitted kitchens, a freestanding fridge-freezer and off-road parking. viaducthousing.com

*Based on a 50% share with a full market value of £120,000

HEATON MOOR Lea Road

Two grand Victorian houses have been converted into contemporary two bedroom apartments in this popular tree-lined road in Heaton Moor.

These modern homes have fully fitted kitchens, a communal rear garden and off-road parking.

Heaton Moor train station is within walking distance and Manchester City centre is 25 FROM minutes away by car and £1 10 ,000* Stockport just 10 minutes. Heaton Moor Park offers a children’s play area, bowling green, tennis courts, stunning gardens and woodland area. There are also some excellent restaurants, cafes, bars and shops plus a luxury boutique cinema all nearby. viaducthousing.com

*Based on a 50% share with a full market value of £220,000

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NEW HOUSES

PUTTING DOWN ROOTS IN MILTON KEYNES This autumn, L&Q launched its flagship development of brand new homes at Saxon Reach, Wavendon, which is set to become a thriving new neighbourhood just outside of Milton Keynes. A collection of three and four bedroom houses, Saxon Reach will offer spacious homes ideal for growing families, close to one of the UK’s fastest emerging property hotspots Saxon Reach is one of the first developments forming part of L&Q’s NewBuild Homes: Quality Standard promise, a commitment to delivering premium fixtures, fittings and appliances as standard, at no additional cost to the buyer. Each home will be complete with everything the new buyer will need from the very first day.

Unlike other developers, L&Q is offering no optional extras, as everything is of a high specification, and dependent on the stage of build, the buyer will only need to make the decision on how they want their new home decorated; a choice between a contemporary palette incorporating whites and greys, or perhaps a warm country-style hue with tones of oak and cream.

Delivering a total of 225 homes, the development will be a buzzing community once complete, with homes available through private sale (Help to Buy and Assisted Move will be available) and shared ownership.

Catering to all buyers, a wide range of properties will be on offer, from one, two and three bedroom apartments to three, four and five bedroom houses.

Andrea Palmer, Head of Regional Sales for L&Q (Counties Region), said, “The launch of new homes at Saxon Reach marks a major milestone in L&Q’s expansion outside of London. Set along the Cambridge-Milton Keynes-Oxford corridor, Milton Keynes is one of the UK’s fastest growing cities, rapidly becoming a renowned centre for technology and innovation. Home to numerous leading national and international companies, the city has seen significant population and employment growth over recent years, however a lack of housing in the area could put future growth at risk. We are pleased to be delivering a thriving new district for the city, providing a range of homes for hundreds of single people, couples and families looking to put down roots in this flourishing area.”

The stylish homes at Saxon Reach all offer high quality specification throughout; Nobilia kitchens are complete with integrated appliances, while bathrooms feature sleek sanitaryware and chrome fixtures. Underfoot, all homes are fitted with premium Amtico

flooring, plush carpet and gloss porcelain tiling. Master bedrooms are fitted with mirrored sliding wardrobes and the majority will have an en suite. When it comes to outdoor space, most houses at Saxon Reach come complete with French doors leading to turfed gardens, inclusive of a shed and paved areas, and most apartments feature balconies.

Encouraging buyers to use the extended Redway cycle and pedestrian route, all homes will have access to cycle storage on site. The majority of homes also offer at least two parking spaces, as well as visitor bays.

Positioned on the Fen Roundabout, home to giant sculpture, the Leaping Man – a tribute to local resident and Gold Medal Olympian Greg Rutherford – the development is just a nine-minute drive from the impressive facilities of Milton Keynes, offering a plethora of popular restaurants, bars and shops – including Centre:MK, one of the country’s top shopping destinations. Also close to the majestic Buckinghamshire countryside, Saxon Reach perfectly blends city connectivity and outdoor living.

Saxon Reach is part of the wider Glebe Farm development area, a growing new residential quarter for Milton Keynes. Glebe Farm will deliver new retail

and commercial facilities, a doctor’s surgery and sports and leisure facilities, as well as an extension of the Milton Keynes Redway system – a 200 mile network of shared use paths for cyclists and pedestrians. Perfect for families, the site will also be home to two new schools – a primary and a secondary school.

Neighbouring Wavendon offers a selection of independent restaurants and pubs, as well as regular concerts at local music venue The Stables Theatre. Several primary schools rated Good – St Mary’s Wavendon C of E Primary, Brooklands Farm Primary School and Wavendon Gate School – are minutes away from Saxon Reach, while nearby secondary school options include Fulbrook Middle School and Walton High School.

As well as direct links to Oxford and Cambridge, Saxon Reach is well connected to both London and the North, close to the M1 via the A421. The development is also a short drive from Milton Keynes train station, where it takes just 30 minutes to London Euston.

Pricing starts from £367,750 for a three bedroom house and £479,995 for a four bedroom house.

Register your interest at: lqhomes.com/ saxonreach

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OFF-PLAN

SHAPING THE FUTURE AT EBBSFLEET GARDEN CITY

Clarion Housing, the UK’s largest social landlord, has released its latest selection of homes to buy at Ebbsfleet Garden City, Kent Located within Castle Hill, Castle Rise comprises 46 stylish one and two bedroom apartments for sale through shared ownership. The homes, which are aimed at first time buyers who may not be able to buy a home on the open market, are now available to buy off-plan.

Buyers can snap up a 35% share of a one bedroom apartment at the scheme for £78,750 (full market value of £225,000) or a 35% share of a two bedroom apartment for £94,500 (full market value of £270,000).

Clarion is playing a major role in the creation of Ebbsfleet Garden City.

At Castle Hill, 425 shared ownership and affordable rented homes are being built, while up to 2,600 homes will be delivered at Eastern Quarry through a joint venture with Countryside.

Ebbsfleet is the Government’s flagship garden city. Over the next 15 years, the garden city is being transformed with 15,000 new homes along with new schools, community facilities and shops.

The area’s natural beauty is also being enhanced with newly created open spaces and parklands.

Homeowners at Castle Rise will also benefit from ultra-quick connections to central London and Paris via Ebbsfleet International, with trains to St Pancras International taking just 17 minutes and to Stratford International only 11 minutes.

Tim Seward, Sales Director for Clarion Housing said, “Ebbsfleet Garden City is the perfect destination for families and young professionals seeking to put down roots for the long term. Castle Rise is unique in that it has beautiful green countryside on the doorstep, while at the same time being perfectly placed to take advantage of the high-speed transport links into the capital.”

Buyers can register their interest by calling Clarion’s sales team on 020 7378 5638 or emailing shared.ownership@ myclarionhousing.com

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

EAST SUSSEX LIVING FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS

Buying your first home can be a stressful business, so it is essential to know that you are in reliable, trustworthy hands. Fortunately, Orbit, the affordable homes expert behind recently launched The Hedgerows development in Hellingly Green, Hailsham, East Sussex, has more than 50 years’ experience of creating sustainable new communities.

Orbit’s key focus has always been on exceptional customer service and helping people to secure the very best home available within their budget The beautifully landscaped development will ultimately comprise 150 two, three, four and five bedroom houses, all available for purchase with Help to Buy: Equity Loans. Under this scheme, the Government lends up to 20% of the cost of purchasing a newly built home (interest free for the first five years), so only a 5% cash deposit is required, with a 75% mortgage to make up the rest. For example, two bedroom Ash style semi-detached houses, with a garage and driveway, are available at The Hedgerows from £264,995, meaning that the 5% deposit required would be £13,250, with a loan of £53,000 available via the Help to Buy scheme.

A further 31 two and three bedroom houses will offer the opportunity to get on the property ladder through shared ownership with Orbit at The Hedgerows.

This means that purchasers with an annual household income of less than £80,000 can buy a share of a property, and pay a Government-subsidised rent on the remaining portion, while only having to find a deposit for the purchased share of the total sale price.

For example, a spacious, two bedroom Aspen style semi-detached house, with two parking spaces, is priced at £255,000.

With shared ownership options available from 35%, (£89,250) this means that first time buyers can buy their own home in sought-after Hailsham with a deposit of less than £4,500.

However, opting to buy their first home with shared ownership doesn’t mean that buyers are stuck with paying rent forever, because an option known as staircasing allows them to increase their percentage stake in the property in the future, as their personal circumstances and household income allow.

Hellingly Green is on the outskirts of the historic and thriving market town of Hailsham, the largest of the five towns in the Wealden district, which featured in the Domesday Book and still retains its traditional charm. The Hedgerows is also

set in an idyllic location for active types and countryside enthusiasts, being close to both the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the South Downs National Park. The tranquil, rolling hills and valleys of the South Downs National Park lie to the south west, offering 1,600km2 (627sq miles) of breathtaking landscapes, and incorporating the majestic Seven Sisters Country Park, with its iconic white cliffs, meandering rivers, and open chalk grasslands.

The Hedgerows also has plenty to offer young families, with local amenities aplenty, including a state-of-the-art local primary school, with additional primary and secondary schools within easy reach, and two local village GP surgeries.

Family days out in the area include Knockhatch Adventure Park, the worldfamous Observatory Science Centre, and the enchanting and child-friendly Drusilla’s Park.

The Hedgerows now has four show homes open, where prospective purchasers can see the high-specification properties on offer, and chat through their options with Orbit’s friendly sales office team. Opening times and appointments are available by calling 01323 700 527.

Information on Help to Buy, and all Orbit’s current developments throughout the UK, is available at orbithomes.org.uk

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

MAKE A HOUSE, YOUR HOME There’s always been a great appeal moving to a new community. Having a chance to watch your neighbourhood grow into an area to be proud of is something that has always sparked excitement with first time buyers. Peabody’s latest collection of apartments along the Limehouse Cut is drawing a new generation of creatives to the area, inspired by its rich industrial heritage. The local area is nurturing the untapped creativity of Poplar, creating a real buzz around homes at Makers Dock This stylish collection of two and three bedroom apartments available through shared ownership boasts stunning views of either Canary Wharf, City of London, Bartlett Park or the serene Limehouse Cut. Not only are you moments from the large open space of Bartlett Park, which is undergoing major regeneration to include a public gym and sports grounds, Makers Dock also offers its own private podium garden for all its residents. All apartments are fitted with high specification finishes and quality appliances, ideal to make the most out of as soon as you move in. Modern kitchens feature white high gloss handleless wall cabinets with discreet lighting underneath and integrated Zanussi appliances, while private outside space including balconies are perfect for outdoor entertaining.

With Poplar being highly connected, it is easy to explore the rest of the city by foot,

bike or public transport. And with the added benefit of Langdon Park DLR station just moments from your door, commuters can reach central London destinations including London Bridge and Victoria in less than 35 minutes. Those working at Canary Wharf can benefit from avoiding the busy commute and costs of public transport, travelling in by foot in just 25 minutes, and cyclists can ride into work in the City is just 23 minutes.

The local area offers a mixture of entertainment hubs including The Limehouse Social Market, ready for you to discover a whole host of world cuisines on offer – perfect for foodies. Alongside, there’s a local market every last Saturday of the month. Makers Dock is a short distance from other London landmarks, including the Queen Elizabeth stadium which hosts a variety of events from concerts to sports matches, meaning you’re never too far from something to do.

Additionally, nearby Poplar Baths Leisure Centre has recently undergone a £13m refurbishment and boasts a swimming pool, modern gym with the latest Technogym equipment, Fitness Class Studio and a beautifully refurbished multi-use sports hall and events space.

Andrew Peglau, Interim Assistant Director of Marketing at Peabody comments, “Makers Dock is the perfect choice for first time buyers looking to live near the City, while being in close proximity to everything East London has to offer. This riverside neighbourhood is a well-connected, thriving hub, fast becoming a first time buyer hotspot.”

Prices start at £115,000 for a 25% share of a two bedroom apartment. To register interest for Makers Dock, visit makers-dock.co.uk *travel times taken from Google Maps and prices correct at time of print

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

NEXUS – CONTEMPORARY LIVING IN THE HEART OF ENFIELD Newlon Living has partnered with Countryside to offer 35 stylish, high specification shared ownership homes at a brand new Enfield development – Nexus. With a selection of one, two and three bedroom properties available, it is a fantastic opportunity to take a step on to the property ladder Nexus forms part of a large-scale regeneration project, which will create a brand new community comprised of over 1,000 new homes, a youth centre, a community hall, a gym, a health centre and shops – completely transforming the area. The development will also be complemented by 14,000 square metres of public space and play areas, creating a modern, open environment for residents to enjoy and relax in.

The light, contemporary and high specification apartments come with fully fitted kitchens by Symphony from the Minnesota range, featuring Zanussi integrated appliances including a dishwasher, fridge-freezer and stainless steel oven. The fully tiled modern bathrooms have a Roca bath suite and heated chrome towel rails. The finishing is also high quality, with Quick-Step Homage natural oiled flooring in the hallways and living rooms, contrasting nicely with the Abingdon carpets in the bedrooms.

Nearby to the development you can find a wide variety of pubs and cafes to meet up with friends, and a short bus ride or drive will take you to the bustling Enfield town centre where you can take advantage of the assortment of high street stores and supermarkets. If you like to keep fit then there are affordable gyms nearby and you are within easy reach of leisure centres and golf courses.

If it is peace and quiet you are after then you are in luck – Nexus is situated in close vicinity of the beautiful River Lee, which provides many miles of peaceful walking

and cycling opportunities. There are also dozens of parks and green spaces nearby too, including Bush Hill Park, Albany Park and Forty Hill.

Another reason to choose Nexus is the excellent transport links. You are only a few minutes’ walk from Ponders End station from which you can easily commute into central London. Liverpool Street is just 17 minutes away by train and St Pancras less than 25 minutes. You can also travel one stop and jump on the tube at Tottenham Hale, or if you prefer there are a number of bus routes to get you around.

Prices at Nexus range from £82,500 for a 30% share (£275,000 market price) of a one bedroom apartment, to £123,000 for a 30% share (£410,000 market price) of a three bedroom. A 10% deposit is required.

To find out more and register your interest in an apartment at Nexus then visit nexus-enfield.co.uk For more information about the other homes and range of services available from Newlon Living go to newlonliving.org.uk

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

THE PLACE: FOR ZONE 4 LIVING Origin Housing is due to launch its latest development of 21 private sale and 16 shared ownership homes at The Place this autumn; a stylish collection of one, two and three bedroom homes on Station Road, New Southgate.

The residential suburb straddles three outer London Boroughs – Barnet, Enfield and Haringey – and boasts fantastic transport links from its Zone 4 train stations into central London Simon Scott, Assistant Director, Commercial & Property Marketing for Origin Housing, said, “When searching for a home in the capital and beyond, there are a number of factors that buyers tend to consider – for many, this includes the cost and length of a commute into London.

“Recent research from estate agent Savills revealed that it costs 21% less to buy a home in Zone 4 than in Zone 3, with the average household income needed to secure a mortgage dropping from £105,682 to £82,889. Meanwhile, according to Which?, the average yearly fare from Zone 3 to central London is £1,648, compared to £2,020 from Zone 4.

“This difference of £372, compared to the substantial difference of £22,793 between household incomes, means purchasing a home in Zone 4 will undoubtedly give buyers more for their money.”

Residents at The Place will have London on their doorstep, with National Rail Northern and Thameslink lines serving New Southgate railway station, and trains to Highbury and Islington taking just 14 minutes. From there commuters have access to London Underground’s Victoria Line, as well as the London Overground’s East and North London lines.

Arnos Grove is just a short walk from the development, where the Piccadilly Line operates, providing a fast commute to St

Pancras in just 17 minutes. Proposed rail improvements will make New Southgate one of the best-connected places to live in north London, with the station set to become the north termination point for Crossrail 2, which will offer speedy train journeys to Seven Sisters, Euston and Victoria train stations.

Alongside excellent transport links, homes at The Place are surrounded by unlimited parkland and green spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the best of the city and countryside. The historic Arnos Park is a short walk from the development, where residents can take a stroll along the Pymmes Brook Trail which runs through the centre of the park. Around the corner from the development is Brunswick Park, which boasts a playground, sports field and tennis courts for locals to enjoy. London hotspot Alexandra Palace can be reached in under five minutes on the train, with plenty of activities and events taking place at the well-known grounds.

Nearby, there are a number of independent businesses in New Southgate that create a community hub, including buzzy cafe Boyden’s Kitchen and The Arnos Arms, which offer a whole host of weekly events for locals to get involved with.

At The Place, each apartment will have its own outside terrace, balcony or winter garden, while inside, the modern, openplan living spaces will flow into the high specification kitchens, which feature floor to ceiling windowed doors, letting in plenty of light.

Designed by MH Architects with an aesthetically pleasing, creative, energy conscious and sustainable design, the development will make a positive impact on the environment and will achieve a level 4 Code for Sustainable Homes. Private sale prices start from £335,000 for a

one bedroom apartment, £445,000 for a two bedroom apartment, and £440,000 for a three bedroom apartment. Shared ownership prices start from £81,250 for a 25% share of a one bedroom apartment with a full market value of £325,000 and £96,375 for a 25% share of a 2 bedroom apartment with a full market value of £385,500.

Origin Housing has a selection of developments in other London Zone 4 locations, including Northern Heights and Castra Apartments.

New homes at Northern Heights are located a stone’s throw away from Finchley Central, offering a commute of just 19 minutes to central London. The development offers a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments, all available through shared ownership. The apartments offer luxurious interiors, open-plan living and secluded outdoor space. Prices for remaining homes at Northern Heights start from £102,500 for a 25% share with a full market value of £410,000.

Meanwhile, Origin’s part of the new Castra Apartments development offers stunning one and two bedroom apartments, all of which are available through shared ownership. The stylish homes are positioned on a quiet road in Mill Hill, surrounded by green space, and offer high specification interiors, open-plan layouts and private outdoor space. Mill Hill East tube station is a pleasant eightminute walk from the development and then it is 24 minutes to King’s Cross on the Northern Line. Camden, one of London’s best marketplaces, is only 16 minutes away, while Tottenham Court Road is 25 minutes away. Prices start from £99,875 for a 25% share with a full market value of £399,500.

For more information visit: originsales.co.uk/ the-place

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

WEST IS BEST!

With excellent transport links, cosmopolitan shopping, bustling bars and restaurants, green space on the doorstep and a buzzing vibe, West Ealing ticks all the boxes. Editor Lynda Clark discovers SO Resi Ealing – a collection of contemporary, shared ownership apartments offering the perfect place to call home I always hear great things about living in Ealing, which I am not at all familiar with, so I was really looking forward to discovering just what makes it so popular.

West Ealing is in the throes of having a facelift, and walking down the high street in the heart of this vibrant community with an array of shops, cafes and restaurants certainly made a very good first impression.

SO Resi Ealing forms part of a development that combines contemporary design with calm green spaces – the perfect combination for modern laid-back living.

There are one and two bedroom apartments and three bedroom penthouses available to buy through shared ownership, making them very affordable to first time buyers.

What is so impressive about these homes is the space – they have been designed to maximise natural light and some apartments offer dual aspect and all either have a balcony or terrace, opening up the living area even more.

It’s centered round a landscaped courtyard, which will provide the perfect place to escape to after a long day, and offers restful seating and play areas. There are also stunning rooftop gardens which again offer a relaxing retreat, plus stunning views. Decorative panels on the outside of the building depict the changing seasons of the apple tree, a nod to the orchard roots of Ealing and there are plans for a retail space underneath the development.

Kitchens come with integrated Bosch appliances including a fitted oven, ceramic hob, fridge-freezer and dishwasher, and there is a washer-dryer located in the hallway cupboard. The large bathrooms

include a heated towel rail and a walk-in shower to the en suites in some of the two bedroom apartments. There is Aged Oak or Lime Wash Karndean flooring throughout and carpet in the bedrooms, and an audio and visual intercom system is fitted for added security.

Transport links are amazing and you can walk to West Ealing station – soon to be part of the Elizabeth Line – in nine minutes and from there it is a very quick commute to central London and beyond.

Green spaces are also within easy reach, with Deans Gardens, Walpole Park and the famous Ealing Common all close at hand. Walpole Park is perfect for sports, recreation or just relaxing in, and free

art exhibitions are held at the historic Pitzhanger Manor. It is also home to the Ealing Summer Festival.

BUYING YOUR HOME With So Resi, you can buy your own home in your own way. You start with a share that is right for you between 25% and 75%, then you can buy extra shares if you wish over time. Your monthly mortgage payments and deposit are smaller than they would be if you bought your home outright. There are two other monthly payments, one is the SO Resi payment for the share of your home that Metropolitan Thames Valley owns and the other is the service charge, which pays to look after the building.

The guide price for a one bedroom apartment is from £107,500 for a 25% share with a full market value of £430,000. That means you would need a deposit of £10,750.

Guide price for a two bedroom apartment is from £143,000 with a 25% share with a full market value of £572,000.

This means you would need to have a deposit of £14,300.

For more information go to soresi.co.uk or call 0752 221 7119 *Figures shown above are for guidance only and official prices will be realised soon

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HELP TO BUY

BETTER TO BUY NEW WITH INLAND HOMES More than half of all home hunters would consider buying a new build home, with energy efficiency and the appeal of no expensive renovations or DIY noted as being among the benefits sparking joy with home buyers¹. First time buyers searching for a new home should look to award-winning house builder Inland Homes which offers a fantastic variety of stylish properties across the south of England, from one bedroom apartments to four bedroom detached houses, many of which are available with the Government’s Help to Buy scheme Inland Homes makes exploring carbon reduction, sustainable construction and energy efficiency a priority across all of its developments. Ideal for those looking to purchase their first home, all properties come equipped with energy saving features including cost-effective boilers and appliances, wider wall cavity for better heat and sound insulation, double glazed windows, durable and easy-clean kitchens and low-energy lighting. All properties also come with a 10-year new home warranty*, and with the added benefit of being able to personalise the internal specification**, buyers can put their own personal touch on their home before they even move in.

Vicki Noon, Sales and Marketing Director at Inland Homes, said, “We are passionate about creating balanced, attractive communities and homes, while also delivering a stellar service to our customers. Our growing reputation for building stylish, high quality homes with energy saving features has been particularly well received among the first time buyer audience. Each of our developments has been carefully planned to offer something different for prospective buyers, and with Help to Buy available on the majority of our homes, aspiring homeowners can take their first steps on to the property ladder with Inland Homes.”

Two award-winning developments

by Inland Homes – Meridian Waterside and Chapel Riverside in Southampton – are perfect examples of homes ideal for first time buyers. Offering a high quality specification with open-plan living and dining areas, en suite bathrooms to the master bedroom and spectacular views of the River Itchen, all are available with Help to Buy. Both developments feature a collection of one and two bedroom apartments, enjoying convenient connections to the vibrant city centre of Southampton. Prices start from £169,000 at Meridian Waterside and £200,000 at Chapel Riverside.

Chapel Riverside

Farrier’s Wood

Centre Square is perfectly placed within the heart of High Wycombe, with everything you could ever need on your doorstep. For buyers priced out of London, Centre Square could be the answer, situated just a short walk to the train station which provides easy connections to London Marylebone.

The modern development offers uniquely spacious one and two bedroom apartments, perfect for the busy professional who wants style while not compromising on either price or location. Prices at Centre Square start from £229,999.

Gardiners Park Village in Basildon, Essex, is ideal for purchasers with plans to grow their family. The stunning two and

three bedroom homes are located a stone’s throw from the centre of Basildon, while being within easy reach of stunning Essex countryside and the coast. Good schools and shopping facilities, as well as great rail links to London, make it the perfect location to settle down. Prices at Gardiners Park Village start from £375,000.

Inland Homes’ current developments also include Farrier’s Wood in Hertfordshire, offering a collection of apartments and family homes with an exceptional amount of parking and energy efficient features, and Jasmine Park in Suffolk which provides a beautiful selection of homes to suit individuals, couples and families alike.

All prices are correct at time of going to press.

For more information and to find out more about Inland Homes’ developments, please call 01494 546 772 or visit inlandhomes.co.uk 1 hbf.co.uk/news/interior-design-sophie-robinson-addssplash-colour-new-homes-week-69-cant-resist-draw-no-diyand-blank-canvas/ *LABC/NHBC warranty or similar provided **Personalisation subject to build stage

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FINANCE

HERE’S HOW OLI TOOK ON CASH BUYERS... BY TURNING HIMSELF INTO ONE Young Londoner Oli was trying to get a foot on the property ladder, but kept losing out to other offers. But then he used a new service called Habito Go to turn himself into a cash buyer – and won As a first time buyer, Oli had been looking at homes around north west London for nearly a year with no luck. By this point, he was confused and frustrated – he’d been pipped at the post by cash buyers more than once, and every estate agent he spoke to was telling him something different.

So he came to online mortgage broker Habito for advice. He’d seen a flat he liked that was up for sale. Its price had been reduced to £595,000 – but even so, it was still just outside the top end of Oli’s budget.

Just out of reach.

That’s when Oli’s broker at Habito offered him the chance to try a new service: Habito Go. Using Go, Oli could make an offer as a cash buyer, and radically speed up the buying process with Go’s fasttracked property valuations and legal work.

As part of the Go service, he also got his own dedicated Habito guide, to advise him through the tactics of what to offer, how to negotiate on the price… the whole thing.

Oli said, “There is a difference when you make an offer and say you’re a cash buyer.

Suddenly the estate agent questions – ‘Really? You’re a cash buyer?’ And actually, they take you seriously very quickly.”

Feeling empowered, confident, and with the encouragement of his Habito guide, Oli made an offer quite a long way under the asking price: £572,000. In return for the discount, he offered to move in within two weeks and the seller accepted.

After an offer is accepted, the valuation and conveyancing that follow can take up to six weeks. But because Habito Go comes with fast-tracked property valuations and conveyancing, it only took days. Within five working days of Oli’s offer being accepted, the valuation was done, the report was delivered and the solicitors had been brought in.

“It was incredibly easy. It was like I had a concierge on speed dial who just managed the whole process for me, whether that was questions for the solicitor or searches on the property – all of these concepts I didn’t really know about.”

While all this was happening, Habito was hard at work in the background applying for a mortgage for Oli – so it was ready when he needed it, but without the application slowing down his purchase. Habito applied to HSBC, who approved him for a mortgage at 1.79% fixed for 5 years and it was ready before he even moved in.

After Oli made his offer, it took just 26 days to get the keys to his new flat. He was actually ready to move sooner in just 22 days! The only reason he was delayed was because the seller wasn’t able to move out as quickly. “As a buyer, I was moving faster than the seller could,” Oli added.

All in all, Oli saved more than £12,000 with Habito Go. These are the total savings

he got with his lower offer (£23,000) as well as the lower Stamp Duty charge that came with the discounted purchase price (£18,850 versus £19,750).

That saving includes Habito Go’s fee which was 1.95% of the purchase price and includes a valuation worth £520 and fast-track property surveys and legal work worth £1,700. With all the numbers totted up, Habito Go saved Oli £12,746.

“Habito Go was crucial in the whole process for me. It levelled the playing field between me, a first time buyer, and investors who are buying with cash.”

Watch Oli tell his story on video, and find out more about Go, at habito.com/go

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

LIVE IN LONDON FOR LESS AT THE ROYAL DOCKS CBRE has recently named Newham as one of the top five boroughs for house price growth in London¹. The borough has grown by 49% over the past five years, largely due to its close proximity to Canary Wharf and is proving to be an area of great investment for homebuyers. Notting Hill Genesis’ collection of homes at Royal Albert Wharf and Traders’ Quarter are available to purchase with shared ownership, providing purchasers with a fantastic opportunity to secure an affordable home within the vibrant Newham neighbourhood of London’s Royal Docks Purchasers at both Royal Albert Wharf and Traders’ Quarter can choose from a collection of contemporary one, two and three bedroom apartments. Choosing to buy with shared ownership makes moving a more realistic opportunity for most first time buyers, who can start by purchasing a 25% share of the property and increase their investment as and when they can afford it, up to full ownership.

Situated in east London’s most thriving business district and biggest regeneration project, the Royal Docks were the largest enclosed docks in the world during the Victorian era and served as a vital hub for trade. While maintaining its historic heritage, the transformed landscape has been thoughtfully planned to make the most of the superb setting on the northern bank of the River Thames. There are countless opportunities for first time buyers here, with newly anticipated amenities including a new primary school, market square, plenty of cafes and restaurants, Thames Clipper river bus service, Crossrail services and London’s longest pier.

The apartments at Royal Albert Wharf and Traders’ Quarter have been cleverly designed with double glazed windows that fill apartments with plenty of natural light, and open-plan interiors which offer dual-

Royal Albert Wharf

aspect river views in selected homes. The stylish interiors boast a sleek white kitchen which features a full range of integrated appliances, wood-effect flooring and carpet throughout, as well as plenty of handy storage spaces and a smart video entry system for extra security.

Located in Zone 3, commuters have access to excellent transport links into the City. Both developments are located just a

few minutes’ walk from DLR stations, where buyers can connect to Canning Town in just 11 minutes, Canary Wharf in 19 minutes, and London Bridge and Waterloo in under 30 minutes via the Jubilee Line. The newly anticipated launch of Crossrail from nearby Cross House on the Elizabeth Line, will further transform the Royal Docks into a major transportation hub. Making journey times quicker with up to 12 Crossrail trains per hour, city workers will be able to reach Liverpool Street in just 10 minutes.

At Royal Albert Wharf, prices for a one bedroom home start from £77,500 for a 25% share with a full market value of £310,000.

While at Traders’ Quarter, prices for a one bedroom home start from £94,375 for a 25% share with a full market value of £377,500.

For more information or to arrange your viewing, contact Notting Hill Genesis on 020 3797 3650, or visit the website at nhgsales.com ¹ propertywire.com/news/uk/east-london-ishighest-performing-area-in-london-for-residentialproperty

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

SHARED OWNERSHIP: MAKING A DREAM HOME BECOME A REALITY

When Debbie and Matthew Long found the perfect property for their young family, they knew that shared ownership was the only way they would be able to make their dream become reality. With the help of Leaders’ Shared Ownership team, the couple had sold their old home and moved into their new one within just four months The couple, who moved into the new property at the end of August, were actually upsizing from their first two bedroom home, to a much bigger, detached three bedroom family home. With two young children; more space and a large back garden were two criteria Debbie and husband Matthew were not prepared to overlook when searching for properties.

“We had actually enquired about another property on the development Persimmon was building in Bishops Stortford, but all the three beds had been reserved,” said Debbie.

“As soon as one became re-available though, Leaders called us back to tell us. We were familiar with the area and the developer – so after some initial chats and viewings, we knew we could see ourselves living here.”

Keen to find out how they could start the process, Debbie and Matthew booked an appointment with the Leaders’ Shared Ownership team to discuss their options.

“Our old property had been bought using shared ownership, so we did have an understanding of how the scheme works, but it was helpful to discuss the routes available to us.”

Shared ownership is a housing scheme giving first time buyers or those on a lower income the chance to enter the property market. The scheme is a combination of buying and renting, which allows buyers to purchase a property using a deposit and a mortgage, then pay rent (at a reduced price) on the remaining share. It is usually available on either new home or re-sale properties, via a housing association or a registered provider.

Many people think shared ownership isn’t an option unless you are a key worker, such as a nurse or teacher. However, in England, shared ownership is available to: 99 First time buyers or those who used to own a home but can’t afford one now 99 People whose combined household income is less than £80,000 (or less than £90,000 in London) 99 You rent a council or housing association property

For the Longs, a £54,000 deposit and 40% ownership meant they were able to secure the home they wanted. “For us, shared ownership was the only way of getting the family the home we need, and the only way we could get on to the property ladder,” said Debbie.

Leaders’ Shared Ownership team were always on hand to guide the couple through the process. “Everyone at Leaders was really helpful,” added Debbie. “It’s a very close company, so we were passed over to the best person in the process very easily. The team lead me through everything and were very responsive at the stressful time when I needed help or questions answered.”

Although not newcomers to shared ownership, the Longs had not used Sage Housing before. Debbie added, “Facilitated

by Leaders, as an affordable home provider, Sage has already proven to be a lot more understanding and helpful.With Leaders’ help, we have moved up from our first home to our forever home.”

Leaders’ property experts offer a bespoke, supportive service dedicated to helping you find your dream home. To discover more about Leaders and how we are striving to support first time buyers through the shared ownership scheme, call 02380 981 565

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FINANCE

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK?

From saving for your deposit to dealing with estate agents, buying your first home can be a daunting experience If you’re a savvy saver and are one of the many people that opted for a Help to Buy: ISA to get yourself on that elusive property ladder, then you have made a good move; however, the Help to Buy: ISA has been discontinued for new applications from the end of November 2019.

The good news though is that if you already have a Help to Buy: ISA, then you can continue to contribute to it and still receive your 25% Government bonus to put towards your first home deposit.

HOW THE HELP TO BUY: ISA WORKS… If you are saving to buy your first home, you can save your money into a Help to Buy: ISA and the Government will boost your savings by 25%. So, for every £200 you save, you will receive a government bonus of £50.

The maximum government bonus you can receive is £3,000.

Although the amount you can save each year in a Help to Buy: ISA (£2,400 + the initial deposit) is a lot less than in a Cash ISA (£20,000 in 2019-20) the 25% boost offered by the Government is potentially much higher than you would earn in interest alone.

WHAT IF I’VE MISSED THE BOAT? With the Help to Buy: ISA having been discontinued and having closed to new applications at the end of November 2019, many first time buyers are looking into other options – such as the Lifetime ISA. While it is possible to have both a Help to Buy: ISA and a Lifetime ISA simultaneously, you are also able to consolidate both into a Lifetime ISA, where this is right for you.

The primary reason for this is that although you can save into a Help to Buy: ISA and a Lifetime ISA at the same time, you can only use one account to buy your first home.

ISA. You can hold cash or stocks and shares in your Lifetime ISA, or have a combination of both.

Unity Mutual offers a Stocks and Shares Lifetime ISA with 100% capital protection, meaning that while the fund is invested in stocks and shares, the fund is 100% capital protected at all times.

Unity Mutual currently offers the market leading* interest rate of 1.5% and has no annual management charge. This is on top of the 25% Government bonus afforded to your Lifetime ISA savings pot.

The withdrawal charge aims to recover the Government bonus received and apply an extra charge to the original savings. This means if you treat your Lifetime ISA as a short-term savings product, you could get back less than you paid in.

Do some research to determine the right option for you – it may just mean that your dream first home is within reach! unitymutual.co.uk Please note – We can’t give you any advice on whether our Stocks and Shares Lifetime ISA is right for you. We can

THINGS TO CONSIDER

only give you factual information.

99 A Lifetime ISA must be open and funded for 12 months before you can use it to buy your first home.

99 You can only open a Lifetime ISA if you are aged between 18 and 39 99 Unlike a Help to Buy: ISA where you can withdraw some or all of your cash at any time, there are restrictions on withdrawing cash from a Lifetime ISA.

If you’re in any doubt about whether this product is right for you, it’s a good idea to talk to an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA). You can find a local financial adviser by visiting unbiased.co.uk. You may need to pay for a financial adviser’s help, so make sure you ask them about their fees first.

Terms and conditions apply to all Lifetime ISAs. For more information read our product’s Terms & Conditions and the Lifetime ISA Key Information Documents.

WITHDRAWING MONEY FROM YOUR LIFETIME ISA You can withdraw money from your Lifetime ISA if you’re: 99 Buying your first home 99 When aged 60 or over (if not used to purchase your first home) 99 Terminally ill, with less than 12 months to live

*Sources – Lifetime ISAs How they work, who they’re for & all best buys 12 March 2019, moneysavingexpert.com/ savings/lifetime-isas

You’ll pay a 25% charge to the Government if you withdraw cash or assets for any other reason.

SO... WHAT NEXT? There are a number of different Lifetime ISA providers, and doing some thorough research can pay off.

For example, there are two types of Lifetime ISA – a Cash ISA or a Stocks and Shares

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

L&Q LAUNCHES NEW-BUILD HOMES: QUALITY STANDARD New research has revealed nearly half of UK consumers are facing hidden costs when making a purchase, which can include a new home, and L&Q has taken this on board and launched the New-build Homes: Quality Standard across its new developments, ensuring residents have homes and neighbourhoods they can be proud of at no extra cost One of the UK’s leading charitable housing associations, L&Q, has committed to its new residents that everyone gets a quality home without having to pay extra.

The announcement comes as research commissioned by L&Q reveals that nearly half (47%) of UK consumers have faced hidden costs when making a common purchase and of these, more than one in 10 (13%) when purchasing a new home. For those who faced hidden costs when buying a new home, the most common items listed were white goods ie washing machine and dishwasher (30%), flooring or carpets (23%) and kitchen appliances (20%).

Other common purchases that have come with a hidden cost include plane tickets, broadband, and mobile phone contracts, all of which are squeezing consumers’ finances.

By launching its New-build Homes: Quality Standard, L&Q hopes to address residents’ concerns over hidden costs associated with buying a new home. The Standard ensures all L&Q sale homes are ready for occupation with no hidden charges, including essential fixtures and fittings such as kitchen appliances and white goods.

Once a buyer purchases an L&Q home, L&Q will continue to manage the home and neighbourhood, supporting its residents every step of the way. L&Q’s New-build Homes: Quality Standard articulates this quality mark across its new homes, neighbourhoods and construction practices. The key features of the Standard are: 99 High quality specification throughout 99 A spacious and comfortable home 99 An innovative approach to design and placemaking 99 A healthy environment 99 A long-term partner for our communities Fiona Fletcher Smith, Group Director of Development and Sales at L&Q said, “We’re delighted to launch our New-build Homes: Quality Standard, which reinforces our vision that everyone should have a quality home they can afford. Our research demonstrates that all too often people are stung with hidden costs, including when purchasing a new home. As a charitable housing association, we understand the importance of a great home, and the

benefits this can have for people’s lives.

“For many, buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions they will make. We support our customers every step of the way and believe that everyone deserves to move into their home without having to pay extra. Our New-build Homes: Quality Standard will ensure our residents can do just this.”

L&Q has ambitious plans to deliver 100,000 new homes across the UK over the next 10 years, at least 50% of which will be genuinely affordable. As part of this, the leading housing association is expanding into new areas where there is a particular need for affordable housing including Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire, Essex, Cambridge and Warwickshire.

As a charitable organisation, L&Q’s role goes beyond providing homes and housing services. Its £250m charitable foundation is developing bespoke community investment strategies for each region, which will be announced later this year. The housing association has been working with local people every step of the way, visiting community events via its L&Q Meets Roadshow to discuss how everyone can benefit from a quality home. lqgroup.org.uk Consumer research carried out between 07/06/2019 – 11/06/2019 on a sample of 2,010 Nationally Representative UK adults aged 16+ by Censuswide.

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

NEWT TO THE AREA Industrial history, rare wildlife and sustainable development meet in harmony at Peters Village, where a wide range of new homes is creating a thriving new riverside community It’s now five years since construction work started on the brand new Peters Village along the banks of the River Medway in Kent, which will eventually see a thousand new homes ranging from cosy one bedroom apartments right up to five bedroom detached properties.

And while the housing market has stalled in many parts of the country, the facilities offered by Peters Village, and Peters Works

its perfect location for commuters, have meant that sales there are remaining buoyant. The first housing phase, Bellway’s 152-home Portland Gardens, is nearly finished, which has delighted Chris Hall, Director at Trenport, the overall developer of Peters Village.

“With Portland Gardens virtually completed and excellent momentum in construction and sales for the other

housebuilders on-site – Orbit, Ashberry, Hyde & Westerhill and Moat – we will have nearly a quarter of the planned properties at Peters Village occupied, contradicting those claiming that the housing market is running out of steam,” he said. “We have also just welcomed Bovis Homes to the project, and it will start building a new 119home phase in the autumn, which includes 24 affordable rented homes.”

INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE

Photo © Maidstone Museum

Peters Village lies on the site of a former Victorian quarry and cement works.

According to Chris Hall, “We have never sought to hide the site’s industrial origins – indeed we celebrate them with the robust metal sculpture on the entrance roundabout – but the terrain was a major construction challenge. The quarry contours needed reforming to create the more gradual elevations that give many homes such a good view of the Medway Valley, but we also needed to build new access roads and the river bridge – opened in 2016 – to access the M20, M2 and M25 motorways and rail links, including the HS1 to London.

“The riverside esplanade is a big selling point: visually attractive, it’s a popular meeting place, and includes a cyclepath and

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

HOMES AVAILABLE AT PETERS VILLAGE EVABOURNE Evabourne from Hyde New Homes and Westerhill Homes offers one bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom homes. The apartments feature an open-plan living/dining/kitchen space, while the three and four bedroom homes have a separate FROM kitchen and living £2 02,995 area. Kitchens include an integrated fridge-freezer and washing machine plus an electric oven and gas hob. Bedrooms come with a built-in wardrobe and in the four bedroom homes there are two en suites. All houses and apartments will either have allocated parking, a driveway or a driveway with a car port. evabourne.com

RIVERSIDE PLACE

bridleway that are just part of a sustainable travel plan we instigated for the village.

But the over-riding appeal is a rural and riverside lifestyle, with the connectivity that people seek for employment, education, shopping and leisure. A sample survey of the first 100 householders at Peters Village showed all would urge family and friends to move there too.”

CARING FOR WILDLIFE

Orbit Homes offers a selection of two bedroom apartments and two and three bedroom homes. The apartments feature an open-plan living/dining /kitchen space plus an en suite, the two bedroom homes have a separate kitchen, and the three bedroom properties offer a choice of open-plan living or a separate kitchen, along with either one or two en suites. There is also allocated parking with all homes.

There will be 22 apartments and houses for sale through shared ownership launching next year and you can register your interest now.

FROM £259,995

orbithomes.org.uk/riverside-place

MOAT AT PETERS VILLAGE

Great crested newt

Despite its industrial past, the Peters Village area has a unique blend of wildlife that has been protected by the formation of the Peters Pit Site of Special Scientific Interest, which is now being managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust. It is home to a large population of rare Great Crested Newts, along with dormice, bats, orchids, nightingales and the Chalkhill and Adonis Blue butterflies.

To protect the balance of nature, the area is not generally open to the public,

There are one and two bedroom apartments and three bedroom houses available through shared ownership from Moat Homes. The apartments feature an openplan kitchen/living/dining space and the houses have a separate kitchen. All homes come with a fully fitted kitchen with integrated appliances including a fridge-freezer and washing machine. There are also one or two parking spaces included, depending on the size of the property.

FROM £60,000*

moat-petersvillage.co.uk *Based on a 30% share with a full market value of £200,000

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AFFORDABLE HOMES

but regular guided tours of the SSSI are organised by the Trust. And thanks to the wildlife tunnels built under the roads, ensuring that the newts and other wild creatures can travel safely around the site, who knows what residents might spot in their own gardens?

grandfather’s grave to nearby Halling Church, a discovery that led to the heritage trail commission.

COMMUNITY LIFE

WELL CONNECTED Sustainable travel was built into Peters Village from the outset to encourage healthy lifestyles and avoid congestion. A new £19m bridge over the River Medway links Peters Village with the west bank of the river, cutting what was a 25-minute road journey to just a minute, and making walking and cycling across the bridge to Halling and Snodland railway stations a quick and easy option. From Snodland, high speed connections to St Pancras take from 44 minutes, while commuter coaches to London stop right in Peters Village itself.

HERITAGE TRAIL The rich history of Peters Village, including Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements, Roman invaders and historic figures such as Admiral Nelson who shared a romantic retreat there with his mistress Lady Emma Hamilton, is displayed on six story boards around the area, which were created by

Admiral Nelson

designer Mark Peters, a descendant of the Peters family who first established the cement works that gave its name to the modern-day community.

Ironically, Mark Peters grew up believing his family were from the Midlands and had no connection with the local Peters dynasty, but an interest in history and the coincidence of the surnames started him digging into his family tree and he eventually traced his great-great

Peters Village boasts a brand new £7.95m school building, opened last year and occupied by Wouldham All Saints C of E Primary School which moved from its former site. Work will shortly begin on the village hall, the plans for which were recently enhanced to include a badminton court, nursery school, changing facilities for the newly upgraded playing fields, as well as the meeting and entertainment options now expected of a modern community hall. Eventually the village centre will also have GP and dental surgeries, a big-name supermarket and three smaller shops so that everything the community needs is close at hand.

The wide mix of housing will help to build a balanced and thriving community, with affordable rented accommodation, shared ownership and outright sale offering a place for everyone. As Trenport’s Chris Hall explained, “It was important that Peters Village stood out as a place where housebuilders want to build houses and their customers want to move to.” petersvillage.co.uk

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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 looking for your first place to call home on a budget, a brand-new property in a wellconnected commuter hub or an urban retreat we hope you will enjoy our selection

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

HOIC FIRST C

E

LEAFY

SUB★U★R★ BS Affordable homes p72-73 W E S T D R AY T O N , W E S T L O N D O N

HOIC FIRST C

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BEST OF S TH WORLD

BO

★★★

Commuter homes p74-75

BARKING, EAST LONDON

HOIC FIRST C

E

WATERSIDE WO★N★D★ER

Urban escapes p76-77

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FOR SALE

AFFORDABLE HOMES FROM £79,375*

HANWELL, WEST LONDON

HOIC FIRST C

E

LEAFY SUBU★R★ BS ★

Aspire at St Bernard’s Gate The leafy west London borough of Ealing is home to 270 new apartments at Aspire at St Bernard’s Gate, with 188 available through shared ownership. The contemporary one and two bedroom properties are positioned in a quiet corner of Hanwell, two miles from vibrant Ealing town centre. From markets to brandnew outlets, Ealing’s shopping facilities are excellent, and there’s a burgeoning cafe scene. The borough is also home to several lovely parks. This is a great spot for commuters, too, as trains from Hanwell travel directly to Paddington in as little as 14 minutes.

Catalyst 020 3369 0138 stbernardsgate.co.uk

*Based on 25% of the full market value of £317,500

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FOR SALE BRAMPTON, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

FROM £98,000* HENDON, NORTH LONDON

FROM £92,500*

SO Resi Brampton Park Close to the village of Brampton, with rail links to Peterborough and London, these new three and four bedroom homes are ideal for families and commuters.

The homes are arranged over two or three floors, with a separate lounge and kitchen, and doors to a rear garden.

Upstairs, there’s an en suite from

the master bedroom, as well as a well-sized family bathroom.

Brampton High Street is close by for the local essentials, while the market town of Huntington is a short drive, for more shopping and entertainment.

SO Resi 020 8607 0550 sharedownership.co.uk

*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £280,000

WHI T E H I L L & B ORD ON, HA M PS HIRE

SO Resi Hendon Part of Hendon Waterside regeneration scheme, SO Resi Hendon will comprise one and two bedroom apartments. The homes have been created with modern living in mind, with balconies, open-plan living spaces and fitted kitchens with integrated appliances. The Zone 3 development sits by the Welsh

Harp Reservoir, within walking distance of rail and tube stations for speedy links to central London. There’s plenty of green space to explore nearby, as well as a growing number of shops and restaurants in the local area.

SO Resi 0208 607 0550 sharedownership.co.uk

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £370,000

FROM £220,000

H A R R O W, N O R T H W E S T L O N D O N

FROM £81,250*

Woodland View

Woodland View is part of a regeneration project to create a “healthy town”. The development consists of renovated two, three and four bedroom homes, with new interiors, kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, flooring, insulation and boilers. The properties are on the edge of woodland, while the town will

eventually comprise 150 acres of community space, along with new businesses, shops and leisure space, and more than 3,000 homes. Good road links make for straightforward travel to Liphook, Portsmouth and beyond.

Annington 01420 488 284 woodlandviewbordon.co.uk

Echo One This collection of contemporary one and two bedroom apartments in South Harrow is very popular. The homes have bright, open-plan living areas, fitted kitchens, underfloor heating and carpeted bedrooms, while residents also benefit from a communal courtyard and secure cycle storage. The development,

a joint venture between Hill and Origin Housing, lies a few minutes from Harrow on the Hill, for shopping and leisure options, while Piccadilly Line services take commuters into central London in around 25 minutes Origin Housing 0300 323 0325 origin-echoone.co.uk

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £325,000

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FOR SALE

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

HOIC FIRST C

FROM £308,000

E

BEST OF DS

L BOTH ★W★O★ R

Padcroft The new one, two and three bedroom homes at Padcroft offer a real best-ofboth-worlds setting to residents in the west of London. The apartments are just five minutes from West Drayton station for rail services to central London, while local shops are just moments from the front door.

Meanwhile, there’s some stunning nature on the doorstep, with Frays Island Nature Reserve easily reached via a walk along nearby Fray’s River. These stylish homes sit within landscaped gardens and have been completed to a high standard, with private balconies to each home, en suites in the larger properties, and convenient separate utility rooms.

Redrow 020 8712 3210 redrow.co.uk

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FOR SALE B R E A D S A L L H I L L T O P, D E R B Y

FROM £189,950 F I N S B U R Y PA R K , N O R T H L O N D O N

FROM £440,000

Durose Country Park On the outskirts of Derby, with a mix of countryside and great facilities, these two, three and four bedroom homes are ideal for growing families. The properties have been created to a high standard, with traditional frontage and spacious interiors, which include kitchens/dining spaces that open to private rear

gardens. There are shops and supermarkets, as well as local pubs nearby, while the city centre, which is easily reached by car or public transport, has a wide array of great eateries and entertainment options.

Redrow 01332 972 524 redrow.co.uk

CROYDON, SOUTH LONDON

FROM £88,125*

The Cottonworks The lively north London locale of Finsbury Park is home to this boutique collection of one and two bedroom homes. The 22 apartments are beautifully designed, with light and airy open-plan living areas and sleek, fitted kitchens. The sought-after town has a range of local facilities including markets, a

gym, pubs and eateries. Green space is in abundance, with three parks within a short walk.

With three tube stations within walking distance, the Zone 2 location is perfect for getting the most out of London life.

St William 020 3944 8351 thecottonworks.co.uk

FROM £289,995

E B B S F L E E T, K E N T

Leon House Leon House is an iconic part of Croydon’s landscape. The 21-storey former office block has been regenerated into a contemporary collection of one and two bedroom apartments, with several available through shared ownership. Facilities for residents include a communal rooftop garden and co-working

space. As well as bus routes on the doorstep, transport links further afield are fantastic – London Victoria can be reached in 20 minutes, and the south coast in as little as 45.

L&G Affordable Homes 03300 586 475 leonhouse-sharedownership.co.uk

*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £352,500

Ebbsfleet Place at Ebbsfleet Quarter Convenience is the name of the game at this new collection of apartments, part of the Ebbsfleet Green development. As well as offering a tranquil escape from city life, the 45 two bedroom apartments – all of which feature private balconies – are close to the on-site facilities, which include a shop, pub and

restaurant. For commuters, trains from Ebbsfleet International take under 20 minutes to reach London King’s Cross. Meanwhile, Bluewater, Gravesend, Maidstone and Dartford are all easily reached by car.

Redrow 01322 772 834 redrow.co.uk

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FOR SALE

URBAN ESCAPES BARKING, EAST LONDON

HOIC FIRST C

FROM £60,625*

E

WATERSIDRE WO★N★D★E

Barking Riverside A major new project along the Barking stretch of the River Thames is set to create more than 10,000 new homes over a huge 443-acre site. The new district will include open spaces, shops, restaurants, schools and community facilities. The one to three bedroom apartments built by L&Q sit within Parklands, available through shared ownership and Help to Buy. In 2021, a new Overground station, Barking Riverside, will provide access to central London in 22 minutes, while currently buses run to Barking for connections to train and tube. Early next year, TfL will start work on a cycleway from Barking Riverside into Barking town centre, where cyclists can connect to the Cycle Superhighway 3.

L&Q at Barking Riverside 020 8617 1747 barkingriverside.london *Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £242,500

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FOR SALE H A R R O W, N O R T H W E S T L O N D O N

FROM £85,000* LIVERPOOL, MERSEYSIDE

FROM £199,995

Greenstock Lane beautifully designed, with floor-toceiling windows, wooden flooring and private balconies. Bedrooms feature fitted wardrobes, for optimal space, while hallway cupboards provide plenty of storage.

This stylish collection of new homes is located in an increasingly popular hub in north west London. With great tube and rail links to central London, as well as a wide range of cafes, shops and historic sites on the doorstep, this is a perfect spot for enjoying both bustling and village-like London life. The one and two bedroom apartments have been

Notting Hill Genesis 020 3773 1851 nhgsales.com *Based on 25% of the full market value of £340,00

WOLVERCOTE, OXFORD

FROM £70,000*

Mossley Gardens The wonderful city of Liverpool lies just four miles north of these lovely apartments and family homes. Close to historic Sefton Park, as well as the banks of the River Mersey, they’re in an ideal position for exploring all that Liverpool has to offer. The homes have been created in a variety of styles, including four and five bedroom detached properties

with garages, and spacious two bedroom apartments with parking spaces. The city’s endless offer of arts, culture and entertainment can be reached in 17 minutes by train, or a leisurely 25-minute bike ride along the waterfront.

Elan Homes 01516 014 375 elan-homes.co.uk

LIMEHOUSE, EAST LONDON

FROM £399,950

Wolvercote Mill Follow the river north from Oxford city centre, and you’ll reach Wolvercote, home to this boutique development. Formerly a paper mill, the site has been transformed to accommodate 19 one, two and three bedroom apartments, and three bedroom houses, perfectly located for balancing city and more rural life. The property styling is cool

and modern, reflecting the mill’s original architecture, while interiors are bright and well-sized, with smart, fitted kitchens and integrated appliances. The beautiful city centre is four miles away – an easy journey by car or bicycle.

Catalyst 0333 444 3002 catalyst.homes

*Based on a 25% shared of the full market value of £280,000

Ropemakers Yard With Limehouse, Mile End, Canary Wharf and the Thames all within walking distance, these apartments make the ideal base for life in the capital. In the heart of the East End, residents will have a plethora of world-class entertainment venues, markets, trend-setting eateries and parks a stone’s throw away.

Meanwhile, DLR and tube links, as

well as bus connections, will take you into central London, Docklands or Greenwich in no time at all. The one and two bedroom homes sit within landscaped gardens, and residents will enjoy an on-site gym as well as 24-hour concierge.

L&Q 0333 234 1165 lqgroup.co.uk

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REAL LIFE

Shared ownership: Hove, East Sussex Lucy Martin is one of the few first time buyers that have defied the national odds and purchased her first home at 24 thanks to Hyde New Homes’ shared ownership scheme

A

fter becoming engaged last year, Lucy and her fiancé Josh knew that they were ready to buy a home, but were worried that they wouldn’t be able to afford to and would end up stuck in the rental trap. After finding out about shared ownership, they were keen to investigate.

Lucy said, “We were both still living with our parents and wanted to move out but knew that we’d never be able to afford a full mortgage and if we started renting then we wouldn’t be able to properly save.”

Working for a financial company, Lucy was able to speak to an adviser from her office who suggested the option of shared ownership, which Lucy had never heard about.

Keen to find out more, she and Josh looked into the scheme.

They started searching for a home they both loved and discovered the New Wave scheme in Hove. “We’d initially been looking at Help to Buy, but when we found out about shared ownership, we saw how much better it was for us financially. We were able to put down a £4,625 deposit for a 25% share and it means we can start our future in the most financially secure way possible.”

Having been previously unsure of whether they’d be able to afford buying a home straight away, Lucy mentions that the couple weren’t getting their hopes up when looking for properties. However, when they viewed their two bedroom apartment at New Wave, they fell in love with it straight away.

The apartment they viewed was the last one available, meaning they didn’t have time to wait and ended up making their application on the same day. Lucy explains: “When we called to book a viewing, we

FA C T F I L E

Property: Two bedroom apartment Deposit: £4,625 Share purchased: £92,500 for s 25% share Full market value: £370,000

were told that there was limited time to start the process of purchasing and because we didn’t want to miss out, we booked it immediately. That didn’t bother us because as soon as we viewed the apartment, we knew we had found the one.

“The sales consultant answered my never-ending barrage of questions and always got back to me within the hour.

It made the process clear and easy and their customer service was just excellent.”

Impressed by the spaciousness of the property, alongside the abundance of natural light and prime location, the couple were thrilled with their decision: “We both work in the area and are saving so much money on commuting.

We can now walk to work and also have access to great local bars and restaurants. We love going to The Modelo Lounge for dinner or The Gin Pub that has a basement nightclub, and best of all, Brighton beach is right on our doorstep!”

Despite moving in two months ago, Lucy explains that they have almost finished decorating and furnishing their new home: “The good thing about buying a brand new property is that you can really start from scratch and you’re not having to build your life into a space that doesn’t feel like it’s yours. When we went for the viewing, we could instantly see ourselves living there and couldn’t wait to begin making our mark!”

Although shared ownership at New Wave is now sold out, there are still a few apartments available through the Help to Buy scheme with pricing starting at £380,000. For further information visit nw-hove.co.uk or contact 01273 950 988

“WE’D INITIALLY BEEN LOOKING AT HELP TO BUY, BUT WHEN WE FOUND OUT ABOUT SHARED OWNERSHIP, WE SAW HOW MUCH BETTER IT WAS FOR US FINANCIALLY. WE WERE ABLE TO PUT DOWN A £4,625 DEPOSIT FOR A 25% SHARE AND IT MEANS WE CAN START OUR FUTURE IN THE MOST FINANCIALLY SECURE WAY POSSIBLE“

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FINANCE

Mortgage Advice

By David Blake, mortgage expert

Over the last 13 years David has worked for some of the largest mortgage brokers in the UK.

Is technology making it easier to get a mortgage?

Technology is moving at a fast pace.

Take the insurance industry; it is now, in the majority of cases, easier than ever to get insured through the utilisation of new technology. While the process of applying for a mortgage is arguably more complicated, technology does make the process easier, but the industry has some way to go In a recent study by Experian, it was reported that mortgage lenders reject around 33 out of every 100 customers. These figures suggest that if technology can be used correctly, there is noticeable room for improving accuracy.

How can I apply for a mortgage?

Technology brings more choice and there are now three ways you apply for a mortgage: 99 Use a traditional mortgage broker 99 Apply to a lender directly 99 Use an online mortgage broker How do traditional mortgage brokers work?

Traditional mortgage brokers will generally work on a face-to-face basis and over the phone. This is a great option if you want to talk things through and really value human interaction in making a decision.

Often, it’s the way questions are structured by a real person that make interactions so valuable. For example, a

common question is “Do you plan to move in the next five years?” If the question is restructured to “Would you like the option of moving in the next five years?” it puts a completely different perspective on things.

Is it possible to go direct to a lender?

There is the option of going directly to a mortgage lender and not using a broker.

Lenders will allow you to interact with them online and over the phone. This is a good option for someone who knows what they want and where to get it.

What about online brokers or Robo advice?

The industry has seen advances from more traditional methods of advice to more digital experiences. You may have heard of the term Robo Advice or online mortgage broker. This is a good option for those people who don’t necessarily want much human interaction and prefer to interact in the digital world. There is an onus on the user to answer questions correctly and you need to have an idea of what you want, but this channel will always have advisers on hand to help you out should you get stuck.

Is making mortgage advice automated a good thing?

The danger of mortgage automation is we enter a world which is purely cost driven.

There is much more to the mortgage application process than cost alone for say the next two or five years and the rejection

figures from Experian confirm this. From my experience, most people would pay a little more for certainty, speed and overall value and it’s important these factors are considered when choosing which mortgage to apply for. This is where brokers can add a huge amount of value.

Which option is best?

It all depends on your personal preference and the time and knowledge you have available. What might work for you might not work for someone else.

What does the future hold?

Most mortgage lenders have or are going through transformation periods when it comes to technology.

Open banking, which will create a more transparent industry, has the potential to cut the average mortgage application time in half and increase accuracy.

As figures suggest, the mortgage industry has some way to go to get to a place where we have full confidence in technology.

Human interaction will continue to play a vital part in the mortgage application process and I can see a time when customers actually have more interaction with brokers, for example, when it comes to making overpayments on their mortgage.

I have no doubts technological advances will continue to make the process faster and more reliable, but for now, I would encourage you to shop around.

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FINANCE

Your mortgage journey Bankrate’s mortgage expert, Sarah Guershon, explains how the new comparison site is helping house buyers improve their mortgage-finding journey Over the past decade, average house prices have increased by 35%¹, whereas real wages (that’s wages taking into account inflation) are lower than they were 10 years ago². With the property market in a state of confusion and uncertainty, we felt it was time for a new mortgage comparison site to sync up expert guides with exciting tools to create a one stop shop for all your mortgage needs. Enter Bankrate...

Our research found that most first time buyers start the homebuying process by Googling “how to buy a house”. The answers are mainly found in 10,000-word guides, which all contradict one another.

But with Bankrate, you can find out how to buy a house quickly and easily. No lengthy guides and no financial jargon – we promise you.

Instead, Bankrate has created new tools and calculators to help you decide where to live, calculate what you can afford to pay, guide you towards your deposit goal, and make it easier to get a mortgage when you’re ready.

There are a few different Government schemes to help first time buyers get on the housing ladder. They can be confusing, but with our Help to Buy calculator, you can easily understand what you can afford to buy with the help of an Equity Loan from the Government.

With a couple of clicks, our Stamp Duty calculator shows you – with a celebratory confetti explosion – whether you’ll have to pay Stamp Duty or not.

But the most useful and innovative thing on Bankrate is our step-by-step first time buyer tool. It outlines the costs involved in buying your first house and then helps you find the right way to save up a deposit through a series of guided questions. All this is to help you get on to the property ladder more quickly.

We answer all the questions first time buyers commonly ask, like: How long does it take to get a mortgage? What is an agreement in principle? What’s the total cost of buying a house? How do I negotiate the price and make sure I get a good deal?

At Bankrate, we want to do what we can to further increase the number of first time buyers, which hit a 12-year high last year, with lenders dishing out 370,000 new mortgages. Why do we want this? Because so many of you want to own a property and see it as a key measure of success.

Did you know that more and more lenders now only require a 5% deposit?

That means you do not have to save up as much as you perhaps thought.

Not only that, but since November 2017, first time buyers no longer have to pay any Stamp Duty on the first £300,000 on properties worth less than £500,000. This equates to savings of thousands of pounds, which you could channel

into your deposits instead. The bigger a deposit, the lower the interest rates you will pay on a mortgage.

Add in the fact that interest rates are at historically low levels (thanks to the Bank of England’s base rate, currently at 0.75%), and owning a house could be closer than ever.

So, yes, it is hard to buy your first home, but it is also achievable... and it’s exciting!

We hope that by using Bankrate’s innovative tools and calculators, you can see just how close that goal is for you. bankrate.com ¹ Average house prices over time: ons.gov.uk/economy/ inflationandpriceindices/bulletins/housepriceindex/ jan2017 ² Real wages over time: ons.gov.uk/ employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/ earningsandworkinghours/articles/ supplementaryanalysisofaverageweeklyearnings/ august2018 3 Mortgage borrowers by type: ukfinance.org.uk/dataand-research/data/mortgages/lending-trends

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LEGAL

A stress-free purchase

Lesley Price, Head of New Homes & Shared Ownership Conveyancing and Bill Dhariwal, Managing Director, at Lawcomm Solicitors suggest steps you can take to help reduce stress and make the process of purchasing your home run more smoothly Buying a home can be a stressful time but be prepared. There are plenty of things that you can do to help the process run more smoothly.

Knowing a little about what to expect, setting yourself a reasonable timeframe and getting the right advice can all help getting you settled into your dream home.

BE READY TO PROVE WHO YOU ARE In the current regulatory climate, it is a fact that both you and anyone putting money towards your purchase will be asked to prove who you and they are. Such proofs are likely to be asked for by more than one party during the move process. You are advised to make sure all buyers and anyone gifting you money has current photographic ID such as an in date Passport or Photocard Driving licence and that you have original papers copies of bank statements or utility bills that are under 3 months old.

Take copies of your ID as you may have to send these to your mortgage broker,

solicitor and Housing Association. You may need to produce the hard copies, although most law firms can now run an electronic check based on copies. Try to ensure that you have both to hand and that you check each separate set of requirements carefully.

If you are struggling with compiling your ID or unsure of the requirements, then please always ask for further guidance.

BE READY TO PROVE WHERE YOUR MONEY CAME FROM Once you have proved who you are then you will need to show where any money that you are putting into the purchase has come from. This could be your savings, an inheritance or gift from a family member.

Make sure that you have bank statements to show how this money was accumulated.

Bear in mind that if anyone is giving you a gift then they will have to provide identity documents and proof of where those funds came from. It is advisable to make sure when you look to start your purchase that

Should you require any further information regarding this article or the services provided

by Lawcomm Solicitors, please do not hesitate to contact Lesley Price (E: lesley.price@Lawcomm. co.uk) or Bill Dhariwal (E: Bill.Dhariwal@ Lawcomm.co.uk)

they are available to sign any forms they need to and happy to provide their bank account statements and ID.

CHECK YOUR AVAILABILITY It seems obvious, but in the initial few hectic days of your purchase there will be a lot of people talking to you about various dates and timescales. It is easy to feel these are all numbers being thrown at you and forget to keep your own diary in mind. This can cause issues later on in the process.

You will need to know when you have key dates or commitments, when you will not be able to answer calls or receive and send back paperwork, dates you cannot take leave to attend your solicitor’s office or even days you will not be able to take time off for your move itself.

If you are in rented accommodation, be mindful of your notice period and be honest

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LEGAL about this at the outset. You should never give notice until contracts are exchanged and your moving date is fixed.

At the start of the move process, locate your tenancy agreement and check it carefully. Consider the length of your notice period and whether from a specific calendar day or a specific number of weeks. Let everybody know how long you are going to need well in advance and this can save either rushing to complete your purchase very quickly or paying both rent and mortgage payments at the same time.

Clear your schedule as much as you can and bear in mind that, particularly with new build homes, that timescales are variable.

HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE FOR DELAYS All parties involved in the process, whether it be your mortgage broker or solicitor will try to get timescales in place at the outset.

These are always subject to change. If you are buying a new build home whether on a shared ownership scheme or outright then you may find there are delays in the papers for the site being ready or with your home being signed off ready for you to move into.

If you are buying a secondhand home then there may be legal issues that arise that need investigating or a chain of transactions that mean dates need to fit around a number of different parties.

Either way you may find that your purchase takes longer than expected, for reasons outside of your control. It is important that you try to make your own timescales as flexible as possible as this will minimise the stress of such delays for you.

LISTEN TO YOUR SOLICITOR! Listen to your solicitor and let them know of any timescale factors which may affect you.

Make sure you return all items you are asked to and deal with any questions and paperwork promptly. They are there to help you and answer any questions you may have so if you are not sure of what is being asked of you at a particular stage please do not panic.

Contact them and ask them what you need to do next to keep the process moving forward.

Lawcomm Solicitors offers an award-winning conveyancing service to first time buyers seeking to buy their first property and work as recommended solicitors to several housing associations and private developers on a nationwide basis. Contact us for a no obligation discussion and estimate of costs.

If there are legal matters to deal with then ask them for the likely timeframe.

There is no benefit for your solicitor to delay your purchase. Your solicitor is under an obligation to make sure all is in order for both you and your lender. if the process is rushed this can be the cause of issues arising in the future.

A specialist solicitor who has experience with the type of property you are purchasing is a good investment. They will have dealt with many of the potential delay factors that might arise many times and should be able to advise you capably throughout your transaction.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE SOME MONEY SET ASIDE FOR CONTINGENCIES All transactions will involve estimates at the outset to help you budget but these are exactly that. They are estimates only.

There are usually third party fees that are not known at the outset, if the legal work

required in relation to the property is more complex or if you need to have a longer period in your rented home, such matters can all lead to extra cost.

When doing your budget for your purchase please always allow a contingency for unforeseen expenses. This will ease the stress of having to find additional funds at short notice.

IN CONCLUSION: Remember your purchase is for the long term and represents a substantial investment for you. While it is great to get moved in quickly, you also want to make sure that the necessary care and detailed investigations have taken place to ensure you can enjoy your home without issues and that your investment is fully secured.

An important job is best done well, even if this means it may take a little longer, and understand that your mortgage broker and solicitor are on your side to achieve this.

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FIRST MEAL

FIRST HOME, FIRST MEAL It’s that special time of year to celebrate Christmas and the New Year with friends and family, and what could be better than serving a delicious cocktail created by some of London’s best-loved restaurants and bars?

ALL RE CI MAKE PES ONE COCK TAIL

THE CINNAMON CLUB Spiced Apricot Bellini Ingredients

99 10ml cinnamon liquor 99 10ml apricot brandy 99 5ml Bitter Truth Falernum 99 25ml apricot puree 99 75ml Prosecco 99 Rose petal to garnish METHOD 1 Mix together the cinnamon liquor, apricot brandy, Bitter Truth Falernum and apricot purée until smooth 2 Place the purée mixture in a chilled flute 3 Top up with Prosecco, stir, then top up again as required 4 Garnish with the rose petal and serve.

thecinnamoncollection.com

BAR + BLOCK Mistletoe Martini Ingredients 99 35ml Absolut Vanilla 99 15ml Chambord 99 50ml pineapple juice 99 25ml blackberry puree 99 10ml Monin vanilla syrup 99 Blackberry to garnish 99 A shot of Prosecco on the side

METHOD 1 Add ice to a martini glass to cool

P.F. CHANG’S ASIAN TABLE Carrot Cooler Ingredients

2 In a shaker with ice add Absolut Vanilla, Chambord, blackberry puree, vanilla syrup and pineapple juice and shake to chill and combine 3 Remove ice from the martini glass and then strain contents from the shaker into the glass 4 Add the blackberry on a cocktail stick on top 5 Serve with a shot of Prosecco on the side.

barandblock.co.uk

99 50ml 99 30ml 99 20ml 99 75ml

METHOD 1 Place all the ingredients in a shaker with ice, and shake thoroughly 2 Double stir, then pour straight into a cooler glass over ice pfchangs.co.uk

DOUBLE DUTCH DRINKS

METHOD

Seasonal Secret

1 2 3 4 5 6

Ingredients 99 35ml any high-quality citrus gin found in your

local supermarket 99 20ml rose vermouth 99 5ml runny honey 99 Top up with Double Dutch Indian tonic 99 Garnish with raspberries and sliced dried

oranges

white rum lemon juice sugar syrup carrot juice

Pour a single serve of citrus gin over ice Add 20ml of rose vermouth Add 5ml of runny honey Top with Double Dutch Indian Tonic Stir to combine all the seasonal flavours with ice Garnish with fresh raspberries and slices of dried orange

TIP If you’re entertaining, why not add raspberries to your ice cube tray to create a stylish ice garnish? doubledutchdrinks.com

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COMPETITION

WIN!

OOL BAR ST TWIST A OL O IN W AR ST AGE B ROM F H AND C 0 EAC 0 3 £ H E WORT RN WIR MODE

Take your seats!

Furniture these days can sometimes be a little boring. If you want something that is an eye turner, will look great in your new home and also be something your guests will no doubt still be talking about after they leave, then these two unique stools from Modern Wire will certainly give you home a unique twist!

Modern Wire specialises in unique furniture with minimal design but with a contemporary edge, firmly tipping a hat to the era of mid-century furniture design. Wire frame designs are solid, durable structures that create shapes and a sense of space. They blend into a variety of settings or can be genuine statement pieces in their own right. Modern Wire designs products that work alone or look great as part of a collection.

HOW TO ENTER Answer the following question:

How many standard colours can the wire frames be powder coated in?

Send your answer with your full name, address and telephone number to: lynda@firsttimebuyermag co.uk Closing date: 15 January 2020

While each design can either be unique or based on a theme, the company's philosophy is that all Modern Wire furniture must be extremely well made, comfortable, beautiful yet functional. All products are made locally and to the highest standards using sustainable materials. Furniture is shaped by hand using steel bars and plates which are spot-welded together. Frames are sand blasted and powder coated in a durable finish. All powder coating is suitable for indoor use. Frames can be primed for outdoor environments using a zinc-rich powder coat layer as primer. This helps fight corrosion for added durability and longevity before an over-coat powder paint finish is applied. The wire frames are powder coated in six standard colours. Tops are upholstered in high quality vinyl as standard, in a range of six colours, but can also be covered in leather or fabric finish. If you would prefer something a little more bespoke, in both colour and design, all of Modern Wire's products can be customised.

Both the stools are really versatile and are suitable for any kitchen island, bar counter top or raised table.

For more information visit modernwire.co.uk 07786 253 419

THE PRIZE… ONE LUCKY READER WILL WIN A TWIST BAR STOOL IN BROWN AND A CAGE BAR STOOL IN BLUE FROM MODERN WIRE WORTH £300 EACH T&Cs • The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative will be given.

• Competition is open to UK residents only.

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TRIED AND TESTED

FTB’S FAST FOOD

Planning the perfect Christmas dinner or inviting friends around for drinks? We tested a range of seasonal treats to find which are the tastiest and the best value for money ALDI

BEST NER TURKEY DIN

BEST SMOKED SALMON

Exquisite rope hung smoked salmon, £4.99

TESCO

finest* Christmas dinner for two, £35

For the price and taste, Aldi’s rope

Perhaps you have just bought your first house and are a

hung smoked salmon really can’t be

bit short of cash. How can you save some money on a

beaten. Whether you eat it on top of

Christmas dinner that is usually very expensive? Look no

a piece of toast or as an alternative

further than Tesco’s Christmas dinner for two. For just £35

delicious canope, it will certainly leave

you and your partner can enjoy a full Christmas dinner with

you wanting another piece and then

all the trimmings, two crackers, two Christmas puddings,

another! Perfect if you add a squeeze

gravy, cranberry sauce and even a small bottle of

of lemon over the top, this smoked

champagne thrown in as well. What more could you want

salmon is a real winner.

or need for such a low price?

LAKELAND

12 days of Christmas crackers, £29.99 On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me… a really unique set of Christmas crackers for those who love baking, each containing a tiny kitchen tool. It might not seem like the most obvious way to count down the 12 days of Christmas, but cooks will be springing out of bed to pull a cracker and discover the mini baking-themed gift inside. A novel and unique cracker which will appeal to all the family.

ASDA

Pip the Penguin cake, £10 Are you looking for something extra cute for your Christmas table for all the family to enjoy this December? The festive Pip the Penguin cake will be just the ticket. This soft sponge cake is filled with raspberry jam and topped with soft icing with some additional edible decorations. His little face will light up children's and adults' faces alike, and he is also really tasty. That is if you can bear to cut into him!

BEST CH RISTM CRACKE AS RS ASDA

Extra Special vintage Louis Bernard brut, £10

E

N PAG HAM

TC

BES

BEST FAMILY CHRISTMAS CAKE

Asda’s Prosecco is a refreshing and

elegant bubbly, balancing creamy vanilla flavours with a smooth fruitiness that is lovely on the palate. It is perfect served at a party or as a celebratory drink before Christmas lunch, but will also match up with your

CCO

BEST PROSE

turkey as well.

WAITROSE

Waitrose brut Champagne, £19.99 Waitrose offers an elegant Champagne made from 90% pinot noir and 10% chardonnay, adding some zing to this smooth and ripe fizz. Round and fruity, with a lovely toastiness, this is exceptional value and perfect for any time over the festive period.

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TRIED AND TESTED

BEST BOXING DAY DESSER T WAITROSE

Chocolate and salted caramel dessert, £14 There’s always room for that little extra sweet treat on Boxing Day! Waitrose chocolate and salted caramel dessert will do just the trick to satisfy those cravings. The

BEST

unique shape makes it very easy

S

PIE MINCE

to cut into individual portions and the taste is wonderfully chocolatey,

WAITROSE

without being too sweet, with a

6 shortcrust mince pies, £1.90

texture that is elegantly smooth.

No Christmas is complete without the truly traditional mince pie.

The salted caramel comes through

Waitrose shortcrust mince pies have a very buttery outer casing with

as a nice aftertaste, making it the

the mincemeat filling being very fruity. Add the lovely Christmas

perfect dessert for all the family.

spices to the mix and you have a wonderful mince pie that is very generously filled. Be sure to buy more than one pack as they are bound to disappear quickly!

BEST CHRISTM AS PUDDING

ALDI

Truffle Gouda, £3.49 With so many cheese options out there at

Christmas time it sometimes seems difficult to know what to choose. If you want something a little different, then Aldi’s truffle Gouda is a very good option. This Dutch cheese has an intense aroma and creamy taste with the truffle making a somewhat unusual but irresistible

ALDI

combination. The attractive dark yellow colour will make it stand out on any cheese board and

Specially Selected Exquisite Vintage Christmas pudding, £12.99

is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Nothing says Christmas like a delicious Christmas pudding, and Aldi’s offering will bring that traditional taste to you and all your guests. The taste is wonderfully Christmassy, with warming alcohol and heady Christmas spices.

BEST FAMILY ROASTING TI N

ESE ST CHE

BE

There is a generous fruit filling and the pudding itself looks very appetising with a lovely dusting of icing sugar over the top.

CARLUCCIO’S

Panettone Allo Spritz, £19.95 The Italian Christmas panettone is becoming more and more popular in the UK. There are many different LAKELAND

flavours, but Carluccio’s Allo Spritz is truly excellent.

Think of an upgrade to a Terry’s chocolate orange

Large roasting tin with pouring lip; £12.99

and you will get the idea. With a very tangy orange

This premier large roaster with a textured, non-stick base will

citrus filling and a coating of delicate yet delicious dark

be all you need to cook a perfect turkey this Christmas or to

chocolate, this panettone comes in stunning colourful

make those crispy roast potatoes that everyone loves. The

packaging that adds a little extra class.

pouring lip is a really helpful addition, letting you pour away

BEST FOR VEG

ANS

excess juices or fat if needed. It has two generous sure-grip handles and is oven-safe up to 240 degrees centigrade.

M&S

BEST PA

NETTON

E

Plant Kitchen festive roast, £12 In recent years, vegans will have had a fairly tough time during the festive period with limited options

for their Christmas dinner. Times have changed, however, and these offerings from M&S will enable you to eat the traditional food minus the meat. It comprises a vegan joint with cranberry and chestnut stuffing, vegan gravy and nopork cocktail "sausoyges" which all taste delicious.

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FINANCE

Mortgage Clinic

By Michael Bennison, Managing Director, Bennison Brown

Michael Bennison is a senior mortgage adviser and founding partner of Bennison Brown. He brings a wealth of experience to the mortgage sector and before launching Bennison Brown was a mortgage adviser and account manager with a leading high street bank for eight years.

Can you explain what the Help to Buy: Equity Loan Scheme is?

It is a scheme to assist people to buy a home with a deposit as little as 5%. Help to Buy: Equity Loans are available to first time buyers and homeowners looking to move.

From April 2021 the scheme will only be available to first time buyers; this will be in place until March 2023 when the scheme is planned to end.

The Government will lend you an equity loan up to 20% of the property value (inside London this increases to 40%), which can be repaid at any time during the mortgage or when the property is sold. The Help to Buy: Equity Loan is interest free for the first five years, after which you will be charged a rate of 1.75%. This rate will increase in line with any rise in the Retail Price Index plus 1% every year.

To qualify for Help to Buy: Equity Loan, the home you are looking to purchase must be a new build, the only property you own (not a second home or a property you plan to rent out) and must not cost more than £600,000. From April 2021 there are nine regional caps being introduced, the lowest being £186,100 in the North East and a maximum of £600,000 in London.

What are the advantages of the scheme?

In my experience, the scheme helps our clients improve purchasing power while achieving competitive interest rates on their mortgage borrowing.

As an example, a lender will typically

lend 4.5 times a client’s income when they purchase with a 5% deposit, either using the Help to Buy scheme or not. If a client has a £40,000 income and £12,000 saved as a deposit, this would allow them to borrow £180,000. If they purchased without the assistance of Help to Buy the purchase price would be £192,000. However, by using Help to Buy and purchasing a property outside of London they could achieve a price of £240,000 with the use of a £48,000 equity loan.

The equity loan has no fees to pay other than a £12 annual management fee for the first five years; after year five interest payments start. This can therefore be a good way to purchase a new home and carefully manage your budget in the initial years of owing the property.

If your circumstances have changed before the end of the five-year period it may be possible to repay the equity loan without having to pay any interest. We have helped many clients who have seen an increase in income from when they originally purchased the property, allowing them to release money through remortgaging to help repay their equity loans.

A lender will typically offer a more competitive interest rate on a Help to Buy mortgage rather than a regular mortgage with a 5% deposit. From the lenders’ perspective they are lending 75% of the property value when using the Help to Buy scheme rather than 95%, reducing their risk and allowing them to offer lower interest

rates which can help you save money on your monthly mortgage payments.

What are the disadvantages?

The scheme isn’t right for everybody and while there are some very attractive reasons to use the scheme there are some disadvantages to consider.

Firstly, ensure you are comfortable that the Government will own a share of your property. The equity loan is a percentage of the property value rather than a set amount of money, therefore if the property value changes the amount you need to repay will also change. You could end up paying back more than you borrowed.

Secondly, you are restricted to purchasing a new build property. While there are many people who want to purchase a new build property, we find that not every client is prepared to do this, and they would prefer a secondhand property.

These can often be cheaper and allow them to refurbish or renovate to add value.

You also need to budget that after the initial five years interest-free loan expires there will be interest payments to make. You also cannot rent the property out, it has to be your main residence, so you have little flexibility if you want to temporarily relocate.

If you believe the Help to Buy is potentially a good fit for you I’d recommend you seek advice from a mortgage expert to talk through your individual situation. bennisonbrownmortgages.co.uk

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FINANCE

EXPERT COMMENT Just like sitting down to do a weekly shop, discussing weekend arrangements or watching a series on Netflix, couples should regularly discuss their finances to ensure they are achieving their financial goals.

However, many are missing a trick by not discussing their credit scores, which are a guide to how lenders may view them. Understanding yours and your partner’s credit score and history is an important step, especially for those who are considering buying their first home. Taking the time to understand how you can become financially linked to someone can avoid future disappointments.

Lenders may look at your partner’s credit history when making credit lending decisions. So, for example, if your partner has a positive credit history, lenders can view your credit applications more favourably.

If your partner has a bad credit history, missed payment, or debt, it could affect your own borrowing capabilities. Before applying for

Money talks Problems with money are the single biggest cause of relationship breakdown, and can be especially acute at this time of year. Kay Hill asks the experts how couples can learn to communicate more effectively about financial matters

credit, it’s worthwhile checking your eligibility for credit products through credit comparison services that give you an indication of your chances of credit approval and so only ever leave a soft search on your credit report – meaning it won’t impact your score and won’t create a financial link until you apply.

James Jones Head of Consumer Affairs, Experian

There are many reasons why relationships fail – work stress, domestic responsibilities, lack of time to spend together and lack of intimacy all have a place in the top five explanations for breakups. But top of the list, according to a survey of more than 2,000 adults by family lawyers Slater and Gordon, is money.

The survey found that 23% of couples had argued about money in the previous fortnight and 26% said it was the biggest cause of disharmony at home. One in five put the blame solely on their partner’s money mismanagement, with the top complaints being that partners overspent (43%), refused to save (32%), failed to budget properly (30%) and didn’t plan for the future (26%).

Family lawyer Lorraine Harvey from Slater and Gordon said, “Money is always a common issue and if one person feels that their partner is not pulling their weight financially or at least trying to, then it can very quickly cause resentment to grow.”

The survey also found that 18% of couples argued even more during the festive break.

“Although it is a happy time for many, relationships which are already showing cracks are likely to buckle under the added pressure and expense that Christmas brings,” she warned.

The stresses are especially difficult for those aged 25-34, according to research by digital bank N26, which found that 44% of couples in that age group admit that finances are causing friction with their

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FINANCE

partner. Will Sorby, UK General Manager at N26, said, “Whether you’re trying to buy a house or reining in your guilty spending pleasures, money issues are often at the heart of tensions with loved ones.”

Recent research from credit rating company Experian has revealed that Britons are getting better at communicating – its survey found that 56% of couples talk about finances at least once a week (although it didn’t reveal how heated those discussions are…). The survey also showed that couples wait an average of 18 months into a relationship before starting to discuss money, and that 70% have no idea of their partner’s credit score – something that can drastically affect the chances of securing a good mortgage.

The problem of concealed debt between partners is a common one. Direct Line Life Insurance estimates that 16% of Brits in a relationship have debts their partner is unaware of, with an average hidden debt of £8,292, while a 2017 report by relationship counselling charity Relate, called In Too Deep, notes that one in seven adults has hidden debt from their partner, and one in five has suffered a relationship breakdown because of it.

Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive at Relate at the time, said, “Talking about debt can be difficult, especially if you feel ashamed or have different approaches to money, but keeping things under wraps can be problematic for the relationship and make the debt harder to manage.”

Jane Morgan, Business Manager at Direct Line Life Insurance, commented, “A conversation about your finances can be awkward, and if you’ve got debt even somewhat distressing, but it’s important to ensure your partner is aware of your financial position, especially if you live together or are married, as they could be liable for any outstanding debts. Given so many people are hiding debts from their nearest and dearest, we’d suggest having these discussions as early as possible to make sure you are prepared.” You certainly don’t want to bury your head in the sand until the point that your house purchase

falls through because the mortgage company unearths a hidden debt issue.

Lloyds Bank has teamed up with Relate on a campaign it calls “the M-word”, which includes tips specifically for those setting up home together (lloydsbank.com/helpguidance/mword/a-life-together.asp). These include: 99 Choose a time and place to have a quiet, calm conversation 99 Look at the whole picture of where you are financially; individually and as a couple 99 Understand what’s important to each other 99 Work out what to share and what to keep separate (see Expert Comment for more advice on this tricky issue) 99 Agree on your shared financial goals 99 Set times for regular financial conversations Catherine Kehoe, Lloyds Bank Brands Director, said, “Our research shows that hiding financial problems is the biggest blocker to a successful relationship for over a fifth of young people. Having the conversation early is key, but we understand people find it difficult to broach the subject. As part of the M-word campaign, we are providing the tools to kick start the conversation.”

“Problems can often arise if there is a feeling that one of you is bringing more to the party than the other,” adds Rachel Duffey, CEO of debt management company PayPlan. “If one of you already has a sizeable deposit or earns significantly more, be honest about how you feel. Not discussing the imbalance could lead to problems later on. If you already have credit cards or loans, again discuss this upfront – it might be worth addressing these first and it is always more difficult to bring these up later if you find finances are getting tight.

“It’s important to be open and honest with your partner when it comes to finances. Talking about money may be a daunting thought, but if you both approach it with an open mind and are willing to listen to each other, this could help reduce stress and strengthen your relationship.”

EXPERT COMMENT There are several approaches couples can take to pay for domestic expenses. Some will open a joint account, all their money will go in there and they will make joint decisions on all expenditure. This sounds simple, but can create problems if one of you wants to buy a new pair or trainers or perfume and doesn’t want to ask for permission. It rules out bold romantic gestures, too! Other couples find the best way to avoid fights over personal expenditure is to put all their income into one account, but then agree pocket money allowances sent by direct debit into a personal account to be used for treats (although you have to agree what counts as a treat and what is essential!) Others have separate accounts and a household account.

They work out what they need to cover household costs and how much each person should contribute, and they each keep what’s left. It leaves each partner feeling more independent, but there may be some negotiation on how much each person contributes if one partner earns more than the other. No system is perfect – you need to talk this through and work out what’s best for you, but the key thing is to talk and have that conversation early on to avoid hidden resentments.

Paul Gillen Financial Planner, Seven Investment Management (7IM)

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MARKET

Brexit and the property market

On 23 June 2016, when 51% of people voted to leave the EU, no one could have imagined either how long the process might be or of the effects on the property market. Fast forward to 2019 and the “deadline of 31 October 31”, supposedly the day the UK and the EU would part ways, has come and gone with no certainty yet of what 2020 will bring. Brexit has been delayed until 31 January and, with a general election on the horizon, the Autumn Budget was scrapped, leaving no clues as to the Government’s intended housing policies. First time buyers are watching keenly, but is uncertainty over the property market helping or hindering their efforts to get on the property ladder? Ginetta Vedrickas looks at the situation FIRST TIME BUYER NUMBERS RISE The latest figures from NAEA Propertymark (formerly the National Association of Estate Agents), the UK’s professional body for estate agencies, showed that, while the numbers of sales agreed fell for the first time in four months, sales to first time buyers increased to the highest levels seen since February 2019.

The NAEA’s September Housing Report showed that the number of prospective buyers overall fell by 11% and, while first time buyer numbers rose, the supply of housing decreased. The report looked at figures from 12,000 UK estate agencies and found that the number of sales agreed per member branch fell to eight in September, the first time it has decreased since April. To sum up, the NAEA feels that first timers are

taking advantage of more favourable housing market conditions to get on the ladder.

TIME TAKEN TO SELL HITS THREEYEAR HIGH

DEMAND FOR HOUSING GROWS BUT SUPPLY DWINDLES

The supply of housing for sale may be dwindling, yet the length of time that properties are on the market is getting longer according to a survey by Zoopla. The UK Cities study found that homes across major cities now take over 12 weeks to sell compared to eight weeks in 2016.

The report suggests that uncertainty over Brexit is a major factor, with some parts of the country more affected than others. The study found there is what it calls “a continued polarisation in housing market conditions across the country set by underlying market fundamentals” including uncertainty over Brexit.

Once the general election is over, Zoopla predicts a “modest bounce-back” for the

But the picture is complex. According to the NAEA survey, the number of house hunters registered per estate agent branch went down in September, from 433 to 387.

However, if you look at the picture yearon-year, housing demand is up, rising from 338 house hunters per branch compared to September 2018.

While more people are looking to buy, the number of properties on the market per member branch also fell in September, from 44 in August to 40, and year-on-year, the supply of housing is down, falling from 46 in September 2018.

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MARKET next six to 12 months but suggests that – whatever the outcome – even removing uncertainty over Brexit will do little to address levels of housing affordability, which is limiting market activity, especially across southern England.

WEAKEST MARKETS IN LONDON, OXFORD AND ABERDEEN Zoopla’s study found that, in London, properties now take on average 14.5 weeks to sell, with sales agreed at an average of 5.7% below asking price. This is 5.3 weeks longer than in 2016. Sellers in the London market are accepting offers that are on average 5.7% below their asking price, up from just 1.8% in 2016.

Discount to asking prices also diverge between inner and outer London, with inner London more price sensitive, with agreed prices averaging 7.6% or £49,824 below asking, compared to an average of 4.7% or £21,015 below asking price in outer London,. In addition, homes within inner London now take 20 weeks to sell compared to 13.9 weeks in outer London – both higher than the UK cities average of 12.2 weeks.

Time to sell across southern cities has also increased from three years ago, with homes taking an average of 11.6 weeks to sell, compared to just 7.4 weeks in 2016.

Discount to asking price has also increased over the last three years from 1.7% to 3.8%.

The study found that the weakest market conditions are in Aberdeen, which it suggests is not entirely down to Brexit but results from the fall in the oil price since 2015; average home values are £46,969 lower in the city than they were in mid-2015.

STRONGEST MARKETS Zoopla’s study found that properties in Edinburgh and Glasgow sell fastest, within five to six weeks, although it points out that the system is different where more information is given to buyers up front.

Glasgow and Edinburgh are also the only UK cities not to register a discount, instead commanding an average of 6-7% above the asking price.

The study also found that rising employment and attractive affordability are sustaining demand in cities across the Midlands and North of England, resulting in above-average house price growth. The majority (75%) of cities in these regions are registering an average time to sell of between 8.4 and 9.5 weeks, with sellers accepting the smallest discounts to asking price of 2-3%. Market dynamics have improved markedly over the past three years in Liverpool and Newcastle, but discounts remain above average at over 4% with an average time to sell of over 10 weeks.

FORECAST FOR THE FUTURE Summing up the report, Zoopla’s research and insight director Richard Donnell explained that there are large parts of the country where housing affordability remains attractive, fuelled by continued economic growth that supports demand for homes, resulting in reasonable sales periods and only modest gaps between sales and asking prices. However, he warns, “Market conditions are set to remain weak in southern cities until pricing levels adjust to what buyers are willing, or can afford, to pay. London is three years into a re-pricing process, and we expect sales volumes to slowly improve over 2020, while house price growth remains subdued.”

NEW BUILDS PERFORM BETTER? Recent research by new homes specialist Stone Real Estate looked at new build property prices and found that, between 2009 and 2019, UK new build prices rose by 46.9%, compared to 41.5% with existing stock, a difference of 5.4%. The biggest difference was in Scotland, where new build price growth is 25.4% compared to 14.6% for existing stock, a difference of 10.7%. Since the EU Referendum vote of July 2016, new build prices have grown by almost 4% more across the UK, with a rise of 9.9% compared to 6% for existing stock.

EXPERT COMMENT In any market, home sellers always tend to be over-optimistic in their asking price expectations and so achieving below this benchmark isn’t just Brexit related. However, at the moment we’re seeing many having to accept as much as an 8-10% reduction in order to secure a sale, which is far from normal.

Colby Short Founder and CEO, GetAgent. co.uk

EXPERT COMMENT First time buyers have continued to show resilience as they take advantage of favourable market conditions and drive their transactions forward. Low or no Stamp Duty on lower-priced properties have proved to be a big reason behind this boost in the FTB market, however, they could also be concerned that the market may turn against them if a Brexit deal is achieved and are buying now to avoid that scenario. Until we are clearer on what the future holds, it’s likely we’ll continue seeing the number

OTHER HOUSING POLICIES TO BLAME, NOT JUST BREXIT A study from Nationwide Building Society showed that house prices have risen just 0.2% on average across the country over the past year – well below the rate of inflation, and the bank interest rates available for savings. Some experts believe that Brexit is not the sole cause of the stagnation, and that we should also examine the Government’s housing policies over the past five years, including its strategy for housebuilding.

Paul Flavin, Managing Director of mortgages.online points to George Osborne’s “war on landlords” whereby he increased Stamp Duty by 3% for investors while reducing tax allowances. The then Chancellor claimed that by removing benefits for landlord investors, it would force more of the cheaper housing stock on to the market, and make it easier for first time buyers to get on the ladder.

Flavin says the opposite has happened, “Landlords have been forced to increase rental prices just to balance their books, and first time buyers have still not had anything like the deposit they need to be able to obtain the necessary mortgages.” Flavin also points to the Help to Buy Scheme, for new build only, which he wants to see expanded.

of first time buyer sales rising.

Mark Hayward Chief Executive, NAEA Propertymark

EXPERT COMMENT Brexit can’t be blamed for the housing market’s entry into such an era of poor sales, but it’s certainly the ball and chain preventing us from seeing its true colours. The suspicion remains that there is a great deal of pent-up demand to move and we will only see that bloom when the Brexit shackles are off.

Andrew Southern Chairman, Southern Grove

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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 Jane Williams Head of Sales and Marketing, Redloft

Cameron Smith Sales & Marketing Director, Apt Living

Gemma Harris Assistant Director, Sales and Lettings, CHP

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

House versus apartment

Q

I am a first time buyer working in the City, but I know that realistically I cannot afford to live in London, so I’m looking to buy a home closer to my family and friends. I am torn between the idea of buying a house versus buying an apartment, can you help me work out what’s best for me?!

Amy Thompson, Chelmsford

There is no right answer to this question as there are many factors to consider and ultimately, it’s all about personal preference. There are pros and cons of living in either property type, so it’s great that you’re considering your options thoroughly.

Apartment living will generally offer less space than a house, but it’s all about making the most of the space you have.

For many people, apartments are more affordable to buy than houses and are also usually better located if you like living centrally. Living in an apartment you will be surrounded by your neighbours, so if you don’t like the idea of living so close to other people, then apartment living is not for you! It may, however, offer a greater

A

feeling of security, as entry to the building will be by a security fob or an entrance code, in addition to the fact that living with other people around you will make it less likely for anyone who shouldn’t be in the building to go unnoticed. It’s also worth bearing in mind that if you have a pet, then it may not be possible for you to take your pet with you. Always check whether there is a pet policy in place.

A house traditionally offers more space and, in the majority of cases, a garden; although this means more maintenance!

The key difference between a house and an apartment is that a house will generally give you room to grow, which is ideal for when guests come to stay and for when your circumstances change, particularly if you decide to either start a family or extend your family in years to come.

Although you will have neighbours, they won’t be living in the same building as you, so essentially you will have more privacy and freedom.

We would suggest that you visit property web portals such as helptobuy. gov.uk and propertybooking.co.uk to see what is available in your area. At CHP, chp.org.uk, we have a fantastic range of one, two and three bedroom apartments and houses for sale across Essex in great locations to suit everyone!

Gemma Harris

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EXPERTS

Getting on the market for the over 55s

Q

I am 56 years old, and looking to the future I have decided that I would like to buy a home of my own.

I have heard about OPSO (Older Persons Shared Ownership) but I am not sure how it works and if I would qualify. Can you explain more about the scheme please?

Jack Tidworth, Croydon

A

This is a shared ownership product aimed at over 55s who are looking for a retirement home with lower living costs than if they owned a home outright or were paying private rent. Like standard shared ownership, you would buy an initial share that you can afford. However, unlike standard shared ownership you do not pay rent on the remaining share. You can buy initial shares of between 25% and 75%. You can purchase further shares as and when you want to, up to a maximum capped share of 75%, which means you will never own 100% of the property. In the future, when you want to sell, you will sell your share at its value at the time of sale.

Some OPSO developments offer extra care*; this is designed to provide you with the ability to live independently in a selfcontained, modern home with access to the care and support service you need.

To be eligible: 99 You must be over 55 99 You have an annual income of less than £80,000 outside London or £90,000 inside London.

99 You are unable to purchase a home on the open market suitable for your needs.

Electric cars

Q

I’m a first time buyer who relies on public transport, apart from when I visit my family who live up north. I am currently looking for my first home and have noticed many developments are now charging extra for a car parking space.

Are there any alternatives being offered instead of having to pay extra for the space, and what are the best car rental options available?

Harrison Longbridge, Acton

A

There are other ways to save money when it comes to buying a home and that is scrapping having a car altogether. Some developments, especially those in main cities like London, have little space for parking – so of course charge extra for the privilege. A number of developers are now offering the chance for buyers to be entered into deals, for say one to three years, with rental car companies. That way if residents want to go further than local transport allows they have the option of

99 If you currently own a home, you will need to sell this before buying an OPSO property.

99 You must not have any outstanding credit issues such as unsatisfied defaults or county court judgments.

99 *For an extra care OPSO property you must have a minimum number of hours care requirement per week, along with a local connection to the area where you wish to purchase. Number of hours will vary between developments.

For more information go to ownyourhome.gov.uk/scheme/opso Jane Williams

renting a vehicle for a term at a lower cost than they would if renting normally.

It was when we started looking into these options for our residents at Apt Living Kew Bridge that we realised we could do more, by offering free on-site electric cars. It is becoming more topical for people to reduce their carbon footprint, so while homeowners can purchase a parking space, others who do not want to have that extra expense can be more sustainable.

Residents will be able to book the smart EQ fortwo or EQ forfour cars via the Apt Living app or

via the concierge. Looking for electrical options is a good way for millennials to travel sustainably. As there is no additional cost to the resident, the option of having on-site cars is a value-added service that developers should be offering, especially on those regenerated developments where parking spaces are at a premium.

Cameron Smith

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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 runs several Help to Buy schemes to help people get on to the property ladder. To be eligible for Help to Buy your household income needs to be less than £60,000 a year. For more details, contact a Help to Buy Agent. Help to Buy Agents are housing associations that handle the application process for Help to Buy products. Details of Help to Buy Agents start on page 106.

BUYING ON THE OPEN MARKET

FUNDING OPTIONS

JARGON EXPLAINED

G O V E R N M E N TBACKED SCHEMES

EQUITY LOAN

HELP TO BUY The government will provide you with a 20% equity loan that is interest free for the first five years with interest charged at 1.75% in the sixth year and at annual RPI (retail price index) inflation plus 1% after that. The loan must be repaid when the property is sold or within 25 years. Buyers need to raise a deposit of 5% and a 75% loanto-value (LTV) mortgage. Only new build homes valued up to £600,000 can be bought. The scheme is available for ftbs and movers.

This is a loan for a certain percentage of a property’s value.

If you remain 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).

HOMES ENGLAND

STARTER HOMES Starter Homes is a government initiative that aims to provide up to 200,000 affordable new build homes to first time buyers in England by 2020. The properties will be built on brownfield land and sold at a 20% discount compared to the market price in the area. You must be between 23 and 40 years old and never have owned a home before. The price of the new properties will be capped to £450,000 in London, and £250,000 outside the capital.

NEW BUILD HOMEBUY, ALSO KNOWN AS SHARED OWNERSHIP OR PARTBUY, PART-RENT

Most people buy property on the open market. Homes are either offered for sale by estate agents or sold privately. These include flats, houses and former local authority properties.

This scheme gives buyers the chance to purchase as little as a 25% share in a property and pay the rest in the form of subsidised rent. In the majority of cases, there is the opportunity to own the rest of the property outright by a method known as ‘staircasing’.

PRIVATE INITIATIVES

RENT TO HOMEBUY

Some house builders offer first time buyer incentives on new build homes.

These include cash back, a loan to help you with costs or paying your mortgage for a set period of time.

To find out more, contact developers directly.

With this scheme you rent a newly built property for up to five years and pay a reduced rent. This gives you the chance to save for a cash deposit so you can apply to buy a share of the home later.

This is a government organisation that funds affordable homes including those under Help to Buy.

STAIRCASING This applies to New Build HomeBuy schemes and occurs when the resident tops up the number of shares they own in their part-owned, part-rented home until they own the maximum share or own the property outright. The shares can be bought in 10% increments.

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 lender’s lending criteria.

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

The ftb process

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

TIPS

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 normally repayable over 25 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 at a bank 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 bank, 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 at least 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 to have at least three months of bank statements, payslips or tax returns, a valid passport and information on any outstanding loans. Banks 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 the mortgage rate you’ll be offered.

BUDGET Work out how much you can afford to repay each month. Look at your income and outgoings, including bills, council tax, food, insurance and travel. If you are buying a leasehold flat, you’ll also have to budget for service charges, so find out how much they will be.

MORTGAGE BROKERS VS BANKS 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 will only be able to sell you products offered by that particular bank, 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 mortgage deals yourself using websites such as

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 ‘quotation’ (soft) search rather than an ‘application’ (hard) search.

Too many applications will leave ‘footprints’ on your credit score and can affect your rating. To improve your credit score, make sure you’re on the electoral roll, and pay your bills and any loan repayments on time.

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 pay off any debts you can.

moneysupermarket.com or moneynet.co.uk, then apply directly to your chosen lender.

FIXED-RATES Some mortgages are fixed-rates. This means you’ll pay the same rate of interest for a certain period of time, and your repayments 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 or remortgage to another lender. Remortgaging to another lender will usually 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 have repayment rates directly linked to the base rate and are liable to fluctuate, so you need to be sure you could afford higher repayments if rates rise.

REPAYMENT OR INTEREST-ONLY You can either pay your mortgage on a repayment or interest-only basis. If you choose a repayment mortgage, your monthly payments will pay off some interest and some capital. At the end of the term, you’ll own your home outright.

With an interest-only mortgage you’ll have smaller monthly payments, but these only pay the interest on the loan. At the end of the term you’ll still owe the original mortgage sum. If you take out an interestonly mortgage, you’ll need to have a plan in place (such as an investment) as to how you’ll pay off the capital.

SHOP AROUND

Speak to a mortgage broker, but also look at lenders’ direct products and search the internet for the best deal.

RESEARCH

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

TIPS

RESEARCH AN AREA

T

a floor plan. Sign up with as many estate agents as you can (and your local HomeBuy Agent housing associations if you’re looking at shared ownership properties). They should send you new properties that match your description, but it’s worth phoning agents regularly.

Buying a home is a big investment.

You need to buy a home you can afford and one

horough research

you’ll 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 visit 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 properties are listed on property portals such as findaproperty.com or propertyfinder.com or estate agents’ own websites.

Most of the properties featured have pictures and descriptions and some have DECIDE ON A LOCATION

Be practical.

Think about the commuting time and if you can afford to buy in the area.

RESEARCH THE AREA

Check out crime rates, future regeneration or new transport links.

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, although be aware that prices have dropped significantly in the past year.

If you like a property, aerial shots of the area can be viewed at earth.google.com

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 décor 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.

Before you put in an offer, visit the street at different times to make sure it’s safe. 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.

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.

VIEWINGS

Look at several properties, and visit ones you like more than once and with someone else.

OFFER

When making an offer, don’t be afraid to ask for less than the asking price.

If the property needs work done on it, use this as a negotiating tool.

SURVEY

BUYING

Make sure you get a survey done – it could save you money in the long run.

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

B

uying process

BUYERS’ COSTS 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/CONVEYANCINGCOSTS £500-£1,500

MORTGAGE FEE £0-£1,000

VALUATION £0-£300

(depending on your mortgage deal)

SURVEY £300-£500

(depending on the type of survey you have done)

SOLICITORS 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 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

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.

EXCHANGE AND COMPLETION Once the mortgage offer is in place, the contract is satisfactory and buildings insurance has been organised, both parties will agree an exchange date. On 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 exchange can be on the same date as the completion, but they are usually a week to 10 days apart. On completion, the final paperwork is done, and the property is legally yours.

Use a recommended solicitor who you know to be reliable and can move fast.

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.

SOLICITORS

Compare quotes from solicitors, and ask your friends if they can recommend someone.

A good solicitor can make a big difference to a purchase completing or falling through.

LOCAL AUTHORITY SEARCH FEES £300

(included in your solicitor’s bill)

LAND REGISTRY FEES £50-£920

(depending on the property’s value, e.g., £200 on a property costing between £100,000 and £200,000).

MORTGAGE BROKER’S FEE 0-1%

STAMP DUTY 0%

for properties costing up to £125,000

2%

for properties costing between £125,001 and £250,000

5%

for properties costing between £250,001 and £925,000

10%

for properties costing between £925,001 and £1,500,000

BUILDINGS INSURANCE £300

per year, payable monthly or in advance.

Buildings insurance can cost a lot more if your property is at risk of flooding.

TIME SCALE 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.

SEARCHES

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.

INSURANCE

After you’ve exchanged contracts, arrange buildings insurance – this will be a condition of your mortgage offer.

REMOVALS

Shop around for a removals firm, and find one that can move your possessions on completion day.

SERVICECHARGESANDGROUNDRENT ON LEASEHOLD FLATS £100-£4,000

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).

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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 home buying glossary is here to make the process a whole lot easier to understand AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE

DISBURSEMENTS

The initial document your lender will give you outlining the amount you are likely to be lent. An agreement in principle is not a guarantee of getting a mortgage.

These are additional charges incurred during the home buying 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 use the Bank of England base rate to set their own charges.

BROKER

This is an amount of money you have to pay a lender if you decide to move mortgage providers 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 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 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 charge you an extra fee. This is because the more money you borrow the more of a risk the lender is taking.

LAND REGISTRY FEES This is a fee you have to pay in order to register your ownership of the property with the Land Registry.

LEASE A type of contract where you buy the right to occupy the 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. This is an amount of money that the government tax you 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.

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LEGAL

First Time Buyer’s Guide to Conveyancing Buying your first home can be a daunting experience. It is, after all, the biggest purchase you will ever make in your life! In this article, Sarah Clancy, Conveyancer and Trainee Solicitor at Prince Evans Solicitors LLP, explains the steps of buying your home for first time buyers

Of course you won’t be going through the buying process on your own. That’s where your conveyancer steps in to guide you and help you through the process, and why it’s so important to choose a conveyancer experienced in helping first time buyers.

WHAT IS CONVEYANCING? The term conveyancing refers to all the legal and administrative work associated with transferring the ownership of land or

buildings from one person to another.

Essentially, it dots the I’s and crosses the T’s and makes sure everything is in place legally when a property is bought and sold.

It begins once you have an offer accepted on the property you wish to purchase and doesn’t end until money has changed hands and you have been registered as the legal owner of your new home.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR CONVEYANCER Choosing the right conveyancer can be like finding a needle in a haystack. How do you decide who to pick? First of all, make sure that your conveyancer is on the panel of the bank or building society you’re using for

your mortgage. Consider opting for a “nosale, no-fee” firm – this means you won’t have to pay the legal fees if the sale falls through. It’s also worth finding a “fixedfee” service, which means you only pay the amount that’s quoted when you sign up.

This avoids nasty surprises further down the line. Whatever you do don’t make your decision purely based on price. The firm you pick will be responsible for all of the legal work surrounding your property purchase, and if they miss anything, make a mistake or cause delays it could end up costing you a lot more than the amount you saved by choosing the cheapest service. Choose a firm experienced in the conveyancing process for first time buyers.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Once you have chosen your conveyancer that’s when the actual conveyancing process begins. Here we outline a simple guide to the next steps:

BEFORE EXCHANGE Your conveyancer will receive the draft contracts and other information about your property from the seller’s solicitors including details of the legal title. They will then begin working away in the background, undertaking their checks on the property to make sure all is well with your new home.

They will check the contract pack, raise any necessary enquiries, obtain a copy of your mortgage offer and carry out the conveyancing searches on your new home.

You might think your conveyancer is taking a long time undertaking their checks however there is a lot of work that goes into your purchase. A good conveyancer will keep you updated throughout so you should not be worried or fretting that nothing is happening.

Conveyancing searches will be carried out at the beginning of the conveyancing process, once contract papers have been received and before exchanging contracts.

Local authority searches are vital in

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LEGAL

finding out key pieces of information that could be the deciding factor on whether or not you buy the property. The searches will highlight anything in the local area that will affect you while living in the property.

Environmental searches will provide details of the land within the property’s vicinity and find out if the property was built on contaminated land. It will also be able to highlight if you’re at risk of flooding.

Drainage and water searches will also be carried out by your conveyancer and will uncover information on the area’s sewage system and the property’s water supply from your local water company.

Your conveyancer will usually carry out a chancel repair search as well – If there is a church near your property, a chancel repair search will find out whether you are liable for the church’s repairs and maintenance or not.

Your conveyancer will receive a copy of your mortgage offer, once issued by the lender. Your conveyancer will review the mortgage offer and report on the legal terms of this to you. You should check your mortgage offer carefully to ensure that the offer you received relates to the mortgage product that you applied for. You should also ensure that you are able to satisfy any conditions attached to that offer before you accept the mortgage offer. Don’t forget, your conveyancer is also acting on behalf of your lender, as your lender must be satisfied that your property is of good and marketable title and can be re-sold in the future.

EXCHANGE OF CONTRACTS Once you and your conveyancer are happy with everything following the enquiries and searches stage, it is then time to move towards exchange of contracts. Your

conveyancer will send you a contract to sign and then they will hold this signed contract until you give them your authority to “exchange” this contract with the seller’s solicitors. Before exchange of contracts, you are not legally bound to purchase the property. Once contracts have exchanged, however, you are then tied in to the purchase and backing out at that stage could have severe financial consequences for you, including losing 10% of the purchase price of the property.

In the run-up to exchange of contracts your conveyancer will ask you to send them your deposit. The deposit required at the point of exchange is normally 10% of the purchase price, or 5% if you are purchasing the property through the Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme.

On the day of exchange of contracts, your conveyancer will call the buyer’s conveyancer and read out the contract over the phone to ensure they are identical. The contracts are then dated and a completion date fixed. If you are buying an already existing property, the completion date will usually be at least a week later on a date agreed by you and the seller. If you are buying a new build property, the completion date may be “on-notice”, meaning that you will receive a notice in the future from the seller’s solicitors when the property is ready for you to move into.

WHAT NEXT? Your conveyancer will now prepare their file for the completion date. This includes the final checks, such as a bankruptcy and Land Registry search on behalf of your lender, reporting to your lender and requesting funds in anticipation of the completion date.

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

COMPLETION DAY The day of completion is the day on which the property legally changes ownership, and the day you will receive the keys to your new home. At this stage, your conveyancer will be holding all the documents they need signed by you, they will be holding the remainder of your deposit and will have received your mortgage funds the day before, or on the morning of completion.

The purchase price will be transferred to the seller’s solicitors and they will formally confirm completion of your purchase. You can then go and collect your keys from the seller or their agents!

IS THAT IT FOR THE CONVEYANCING? Not quite! Your conveyancer will still have to finalise the transaction. If you are buying a leasehold property, they will have to send notice of your purchase to the freeholder.

On the day of completion, or shortly thereafter, they will submit your Stamp Duty return to HMRC and pay any money due. Once the seller’s signed documents are received by your conveyancer, they can then submit their application to the Land Registry to have you officially noted as the legal owner of your home.

It may take some time for the Land Registry to process this but don’t worry, no matter how long it takes, as of the day of completion the property is officially yours.

Once you have been registered at the Land Registry your conveyancer will then send you what is known as the “title” to your property. This shows, in writing, that you are now the legal owner.

Finding the right conveyancer can make the difference between a smooth and trouble-free house move and a stressful, time-consuming one, so choosing the right one is crucial. Selecting the wrong conveyancer could prove costly and could delay or derail the buying and selling process. No two conveyancers are the same, and service delivery can vary enormously.

Here at Prince Evans we have conveyancers with decades of experience in helping first time buyers purchase their first home.

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Directory

ZONES, HELP TO BUY AGENTS, HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS AND MORE...

HELP TO BUY NORTH EAST, YORKSHIRE & THE HUMBER Tel: 0113 825 243 6888 6893 helptobuyneyh.co.uk

HELP TO BUY NORTH WEST Tel: 0300 790 0570 helptobuynw.org.uk 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)

Cumbria Lancashire Merseyside Greater Manchester Cheshire

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7)

1 2

Northumberland Tyne & Wear Durham North Yorkshire West Yorkshire South Yorkshire East Riding of Yorkshire

3

1

HELP TO BUY EAST AND SOUTH EAST

HELP TO BUY MIDLANDS Tel: 0345 850 2050 helptobuymidlands.co.uk

Tel: 03333 214044 helptobuyese.org.uk

4

1) Shropshire 2) Staffordshire 3) Derbyshire 4) Nottinghamshire 5) Lincolnshire 6) Herefordshire 7) Worcestershire 8) West Midlands 9) Warwickshire 10) Leicestershire 11) Rutland 12) Northamptonshire

1) Norfolk 2) Cambridgeshire 3) Suffolk 4) Bedfordshire 5) Buckinghamshire 6) Hertfordshire 7) Essex 8) Surrey 9) Kent 10) West Sussex 11) East Sussex

7

2

5 4

3

6

5

3

5

4

2 HELP TO BUY SOUTH

8

Tel: 0800 456 1188 helptobuysouth.co.uk 1) 2) 3) 4)

Gloucestershire Oxfordshire Bristol Bath & NE Somerset, Mendip and North Somerset 5) Wiltshire 6) Berkshire 7) Hampshire 8) Isle of Wight

7

6

1

5

5 7

8 1 HELP TO BUY SOUTH WEST Tel: 0300 100 0021 helptobuysw.org.uk Cornwall Devon South Somerset Dorset

7

1 9

8

4

1) 2) 3) 4)

6

6 4

3

4 2

3

2

12

9

3 2

1

11

10

1

10

11

HELP TO BUY LONDON Tel: 0300 500 0996 helptobuylondon.co.uk 1) London

Map supplied by Help to Buy South

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USEFUL CONTACTS

ZONES, HELP TO BUY AGENTS & HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS – RECEIVE ADVICE ON PROPERTY FUNDING OPTIONS

LONDON

SOUTH

Help to Buy London

Tel: 0800 456 1188

0300 500 0996

helptobuysouth.co.uk

helptobuylondon.co.uk Gloucestershire Share to Buy

Oxfordshire

sharetobuy.com/firststeps

Bristol Bath & NE Somerset,

Please note:

Mendip

Help to Buy agents

and North Somerset

administer the Help to

Wiltshire

Buy: equity loan scheme

Berkshire

but not the mortgage

Hampshire

guarantee scheme. They

Isle of Wight

have the authority to give the go-ahead for you to

MIDLANDS

purchase a home with help from the equity loan

Tel: 0345 850 2050

scheme. The agents make

helptobuymidlands.co.uk

other key decisions during the purchase process. For

Shropshire

the Help to Buy: mortgage

Staffordshire

guarantee, please contact

Derbyshire

the participating lenders

Nottinghamshire

directly.

Lincolnshire Herefordshire

EAST & SOUTH EAST

Worcestershire West Midlands Warwickshire

Tel: 03333 214 044

Leicestershire

helptobuyese.org.uk

Rutland Northamptonshire

Norfolk Cambridgeshire

NORTH WEST

Suffolk Bedfordshire

Tel: 0300 790 0570

Buckinghamshire

helptobuynw.org.uk

Hertfordshire Essex

Cumbria

Surrey

Lancashire

Kent

Merseyside

West Sussex

Greater Manchester

East Sussex

Cheshire

SOUTH WEST Tel: 0300 100 0021

NORTH EAST, YORKSHIRE & THE HUMBER

helptobuysw.org.uk Tel: 0113 825 6888 Cornwall

helptobuyneyh.co.uk

Devon South Somerset

Northumberland

Dorset

Tyne & Wear Durham North Yorkshire West Yorkshire South Yorkshire

ADVERTISE HERE Speak to our advertising team to find out the best ways to give your organisation maximum exposure.

East Riding of Yorkshire Call 020 7258 0036 or email lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk

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USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS – OFFERING NEW BUILD SCHEMES, INCLUDING HELP TO BUY (SHARED OWNERSHIP) AND RENT TO BUY PROPERTIES

LONDON Catalyst Housing

Octavia Housing

BMA Property Group

Hastoe Housing

Optivo

Soha Housing

octaviahousing.org.uk

bmapg.com

Association

optivo.org.uk

Soha.co.uk

020 8354 5500

020 8942 4062

hastoe.com

0800 012 1442

01235 515 900

homesbycatalyst.co.uk 0300 456 2099 Clarion Housing

0300 123 2250 Optivo

Chelmer Housing Partnership

Origin Housing

Southern Home Ownership

optivo.org.uk

chp.org.uk

Home Group

originhousing.org.uk

shosales.co.uk

0800 012 1442

0300 555 0500

homegroup.org.uk

0300 323 0325

0300 555 2171

myclarionhousing.com/

0345 141 4663

sharedownership

Origin Housing

CHS Group

Orwell Housing

Sovereign Housing

020 7378 5638

originhousing.org.uk

chsgroup.org.uk

Housing Solutions Group

Association

sovereignliving.org.uk

0300 323 0325

0300 111 3555

housingsolutions.co.uk

orwell-housing.co.uk

0300 500 0926

0800 876 6060

0345 601 0030

Estuary Housing Association estuary.co.uk

Paradigm Housing

Clarion Housing

0300 304 5000

paradigmhousing.co.uk

myclarionhousing.com/

Hyde New Homes

PA Housing

stonewater.org

0845 337 4877

sharedownership

hydenewhomes.co.uk

pahousing.co.uk

01202 319 119

Fabrica

Peabody

020 7378 5638

0345 606 1221

0300 123 2221

fabrica.co.uk

peabodysales.co.uk

0800 783 2159

020 7021 4842

Crown Simmons

L&Q

Paradigm Housing

swan.org.uk

crownsimmons.org.uk

lqgroup.org.uk

paradigmhousing.co.uk

0300 303 2500

01372 461 440

0300 456 9998

0300 303 1010

Estuary Housing

Metropolitan

Peabody

Association

Association

metropolitansales.org.uk

peabodysales.co.uk

tvha.co.uk

Sanctuary London

estuary.co.uk

020 3535 2555

020 7021 4842

020 8607 0550

Guinness Partnership

sanctuary-homes.co.uk

0300 304 5000

guinnesspartnership.com

0800 916 1444

Gateway Housing

Places for People

Association

placesforpeople.co.uk

gatewayhousing.org.uk

01772 667 049

020 8709 4300

Stonewater

Swan Housing Association

Thames Valley Housing

Moat

Places for People

Town and Country Housing

Fabrica

moat.co.uk

placesforpeople.co.uk

tchg.org.uk

Site Sales

fabrica.co.uk

0300 323 0011

01772 667 049

01892 501 480

Hexagon

site-sales.co.uk

0800 783 2159

hexagon.org.uk

020 8502 5758

0303 123 1890

Notting Hill Genesis

Rosebery Housing

Worthing Homes

Flagship Homes

nhgsales.com

Association

worthing-homes.org.uk

Shepherd’s Bush Housing

flagship-homes.co.uk

0333 000 4000

rosebery.org.uk

01903 703 108

Home Group

sbhg.co.uk

0808 168 4555

homegroup.org.uk

020 8996 4200

020 8778 6699

0345 141 4663

01372 814 000

SOUTH WEST

Nu Living Guinness Partnership

nuliving.co.uk

Sanctuary South East

0800 819 9390

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

Aster Group

0800 131 3348

buyanasterhome.co.uk

Southern Home

(South)

Hyde New Homes

Ownership

guinnesspartnership.com

hydenewhomes.co.uk

shosales.co.uk

0303 123 1890

0345 606 1221

0300 555 2171

Islington and Shoreditch

Swan Housing Association

Housing Association

swan.org.uk

isha.co.uk

0300 303 2500

One Housing Group

01380 735 480

onehousing.co.uk 0300 123 9966

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 newlonliving.co.uk

SOUTH EAST

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

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USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS Cornerstone Housing

Places for People

cornerstonehousing.net

placesforpeople.co.uk

01392 273 462

01772 667 049

CURO

Rooftop Housing Group

curo-group.co.uk

rooftopgroup.org

01225 366 000

0800 042 1800

Elim Housing

Sanctuary Southwest

elimhousing.co.uk

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

01454 411 172

0800 131 3348

Green Square

Severn Vale Housing

greensquaregroup.com

svhs.org.uk

01249 465 465

01684 272 727

Guinness Partnership

Sovereign Housing

(Hermitage)

sovereign.org.uk

guinnesspartnership.com

0300 500 0926

MIDLANDS

01332 346 477

0345 602 0540

0800 042 1800

Accent Group

East Midlands Housing

Muir Group

Sanctuary Midlands

accentgroup.org

Association

muir.org.uk

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

0345 678 0555

emhhomes.org.uk

0300 123 1222

0800 131 3348

0300 123 6000 Nottingham Community

South Staffordshire

accordgroup.org.uk

Friendship Care & Housing

Housing Association

Housing Association

0300 111 7000

fch.org.uk

ncha.org.uk

ssha.co.uk

0300 123 1745

0800 013 8555

01785 312 000

acisgroup.co.uk

Home Group

Orbit

Waterloo Housing

0800 027 2057

homegroup.org.uk

orbit.org.uk

Association

0345 141 4663

0800 678 1221

waterloo.org.uk

bromford.co.uk

Guinness Partnership

PA Housing

0330 123 4034

(Northern Counties)

pahousing.org.uk

WM Housing Group

guinnesspartnership.com

0116 257 6716

wmhousing.co.uk

Accord

Acis Group

0800 435 016

Bromford Group

Caldmore Accord caldmoreaccord.org.uk

0303 123 1890 Stonewater Hastoe Housing

stonewater.org

Association

01202 319 119

0300 111 7000 Clarion Housing

Places for People L & H Homes

placesforpeople.co.uk

landh.org.uk

01772 667 002 Riverside Housing

accentgroup.org 0345 678 0555

0300 123 2250

Westward Housing

sharedownership

Metropolitan

Association

Liverty

westwardhousing.org.uk

020 7378 5638

metropolitansales.org.uk

riverside.org.uk

dchliverty.com

0300 100 1010

020 3535 2555

0345 155 9029

Association

Midland Heart

Rooftop Group

derwentliving.com

midlandheart.org.uk

rooftopgroup.org

0300 123 8080

NORTH WEST Accent Group

0345 309 0700

myclarionhousing.com/

hastoe.com

0300 790 6531

0303 123 1890

Adactus Housing Group adactushousing.co.uk

Derwent Living Housing

0300 111 1133

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USEFUL CONTACTS HELP TO BUY PROVIDERS Arcon Housing

Knowsley Housing Trust

Association

k-h-t.org

arcon.org.uk

0151 290 7000

0161 214 4120

YORKS/ HUMBER

L&H Homes

0845 618 5008

0345 309 0700

Sanctuary North sanctuary-housing.co.uk

landh.org.uk

NORTH EAST

0800 131 3348

Accent Group Liverpool Housing Trust

accentgroup.org

Manningham Housing

Accent Group

Thirteen

CDS Co-operatives

lht.co.uk

0345 678 0555

Association

accentgroup.org

thirteengroup.co.uk

cds.coop

0117 407 2415

manninghamhousing.co.uk

0345 678 0555

0300 111 1000

0333 321 3030

Acis Group Muir Group

acisgroup.co.uk

Eden Housing Association

muir.org.uk

0800 027 2057

edenha.org.uk

0300 123 1222

01768 861 400

Broadacres Places for People

broadacres.org.uk

Equity Housing

placesforpeople.co.uk

01609 767 900

equityhousing.co.uk

01772 667 002

0300 123 4460

Crucible Homes Progress Housing Group

cruciblesalesandlettings.co.uk

Guinness Partnership

progressgroup.org.uk

0114 241 3430

(Northern Counties)

0333 320 4555

guinnesspartnership.com 0303 123 1890 Home Group

Equity Housing Regenda Homes

equityhousing.co.uk

regenda.org.uk

0300 123 4460

0344 736 0066

homegroup.org.uk 0345 141 4663

Guinness Partnership Riverside Housing

(Northern Counties)

01274 771 144 Bernicia Muir Group

bernicia.com

muir.org.uk

0344 800 3800

0300 123 1222 Castles and Coasts Places for People

castlesandcoasts.co.uk

placesforpeople.co.uk

0800 085 1171

01772 667 002 Erimus Housing Ltd Together Housing

erimushousing.co.uk

togetherhousing.co.uk

0300 111 1000

0845 077 0027 Guinness Partnership Sanctuary North

(Northern Counties)

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

guinnesspartnership.com

0800 131 3348

0303 123 1890

Association

guinnesspartnership.com

Stonewater

Home Group

Impact Housing

riverside.org.uk

0303 123 1890

stonewater.org

homegroup.org.uk

impacthousing.org.uk

0345 155 9029

01202 319 119

0345 141 1663

0344 873 6290

Home Group Sanctuary North

homegroup.org.uk

Wakefield and District

Karbon Homes

Irwell Valley Housing

sanctuary-housing.co.uk

0345 141 1663

Housing

karbonhomes.co.uk

Association

0800 131 3348

wdh.co.uk

0808 164 0111

irwellvalleyha.co.uk 0161 610 1000

Leeds Federated Housing

0345 850 7507 Places for People

Your Housing Group

Association

yhghomes.co.uk

lfha.co.uk

Your Housing Group

placesforpeople.co.uk

0845 618 5008

0113 386 1000

yhghomes.co.uk

01772 667 002

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20 QUESTIONS Andrew Peglau is a results-focused and awardwinning senior marketing leader with over 15 years’ experience in the marketing and residential property fields. Currently the Interim Assistant Director of Marketing at Peabody, Andrew leads a team of talented marketeers to deliver innovative, multi-channel campaigns for shared ownership and private sale

20 QUESTIONS With

Andrew Peglau

What room at home is your favourite?

Definitely our lounge! We can watch sunsets from our comfy sofa, and because the layout is open plan with a kitchen/diner it makes a great space to entertain friends.

What’s your favourite gadget or technology at home?

We recently bought a Sonos Beam speaker system, which is great for streaming music when cooking.

What colour do you think everyone should have in their home?

Teal! It’s the Peabody colour! But seriously, I do love blue. It’s a very calming colour. We just painted our bedroom Farrow & Ball Pitch Blue, and the colour adapts to different types of light.

Which three people would you invite over for a housewarming party if you could have any guests?

Adele, Alan Carr and Stephen Fry – non-stop laughs with a bit of wit thrown in for good measure. I’d also invite a celebrity chef to cook for us, but they can stay in the kitchen!

What’s your favourite memory from your childhood home?

Growing up in Canada I have fond memories of building snow forts (and a few igloos, no joke!) with the kids in the neighbourhood.

The weather was freezing but when you’re having fun it doesn’t bother you... until you can’t feel your fingers! In the summer, I’d go camping in the Okanagan region of British Columbia with my parents and sister. The 14-hour drive was always entertaining. I’m not sure how my parents coped with two screaming kids in the back.

What interior trend do you hate?

I’m all for a colour scheme, but when everything is too matchymatchy I feel like a space can appear too staged. It’s important to inject your own personality on your home, it’s a reflection of who you are and your lifestyle.

Would you rather have a garden or a balcony?

Definitely a garden. I’ve developed a bit of a green thumb, but our tiny balcony really limits what we can grow. Unfortunately, we were away this summer when it reached 38C in London, and our balcony became a graveyard for our lovely plants.

Do you prefer modern homes or period properties?

A bit of both, but I live in a new build and do love the clean lines.

Also, underfloor heating means you aren’t limited with where

your furniture goes. Our interior style is quite contemporary, but I wouldn’t mind high ceilings and sash windows one day.

Would you rather have a library room or media room at home?

Probably a media room, I only read a book when I’m on holiday!

Would you prefer a luxurious bathtub or a sumptuous shower?

Luxurious bathtub for sure. Come to think of it, I have actually been known to read a book in the bath, so maybe that can double as the library room!

Would you rather live in the bustling city or in the country?

Neither, at the beach! But I do love living in bustling London, there’s never a dull moment and the variety of cuisine and culture is incredible.

If you were buying a property overseas, in what country would you buy a home?

Australia or South Africa – on the beach. My husband grew up in both countries, and the relaxed way of life certainly appeals.

Would you rather have a bigger property or a better location?

Can I have both? Probably a better location, how much space do two people need really?

What is one thing you couldn’t live without at home?

My husband (he told me to say that). But truly he is a brilliant cook, and I let him choose the playlist most of the time.

What’s your favourite way to unwind at home after work?

Feet up with a glass of nice red wine.

What’s your favourite thing about your home?

Sofa and bed. You spend most of your time on them, so make sure they’re comfortable.

Where did you buy your first home?

Hackney Wick in east London. I’ve lived in west, south and north London but settled in the east! I love the vibe of our area; craft beer brewed locally and you can dine on a converted barge on the River Lea. Being near green space (Vicky Park and Olympic Park) is a joy.

What advice would you give a first time buyer?

Don’t expect it to be easy, it will be the scariest purchase of your life, but also one of the most satisfying when you finally get the keys to your own home. I usually recommend that first time buyers speak to an independent mortgage adviser early on in their search; they can help calculate what you can afford to buy which will help narrow down your search. I’d also advocate shared ownership as an option to get on the property ladder.

What are your views on shared ownership?

Shared ownership is a fantastic way to afford your first home in a desirable area. Peabody has helped thousands of first time buyers achieve their dream of homeownership through shared ownership, and for many people this is the most achievable way to get on the property ladder. You generally need a smaller deposit than buying on the open market, and there is a wide selection of homes available – from studios to family-sized houses. Speaking to first time buyers, I often hear the concern that they’ll never be able to buy more shares or own 100% of the property. That’s a common myth about shared ownership. Hundreds of Peabody’s shared owner’s staircase each year, and many to 100% ownership!

What are your views on the property market?

Despite what you might read in the press, it’s not all doom and gloom. I truly believe if you are currently renting, then there is never a bad time to get on the property ladder. That first step is usually the hardest, but the most rewarding.

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