Making homeownership accessible is Minnie Dando’s priority. With 17 years of experience in property, her knowledge of the first time buyer market is second to none. During her career, her passion for supporting people to take a step onto the property ladder has forged a path in marketing, specialising in affordable homes. As Head of Marketing & Communications at Hyde New Homes, she places the needs of buyers at the heart of every project and is committed to informing first time buyers about the benefits of shared ownership.
Q:
We’re ready to make the leap from renting and have started looking at buying our first home. After much research, we’re planning to buy with shared ownership to make our deposit stretch further. However, we’re a young couple planning a family, so we’re keen to buy a house rather than an apartment. Outside space is really important to us, and we need something we can grow into. However, it seems that houses available to buy with the scheme are hard to find. Please can you advise?
A:
The first step to buying a home is to work out what you can afford, and it sounds like you’re in a position to move forward and make homeownership a reality for you and your partner. Shared ownership is a scheme that will help you secure a home that will suit you for the long term, so I can understand your thought process with searching for a house over an apartment.
Firstly, please be reassured that you’re not restricted to apartments. There are plenty of superb, family friendly locations that prioritise community as well as comfort, connectivity, and local amenities. For example, Whitstable Heights is perched proudly on the north coast of Kent, looking over the lovely town of Whitstable and the sea. Four bedroom houses here start at £128,750 for a 25% share, based on a full market value of £515,000, with a deposit of £12,872.
Similarly, a deposit of £10,625 will secure a 25% share of a traditionally built four bedroom house at Spring Acres, just a 25-minute drive away, near the town of Sittingbourne.
There are more options for you in the desirable village of Yapton, West Sussex, at Wildbridge, launching this autumn. Situated in a convenient village location, nestled between the South Downs and in close proximity to the coast, there is a range of two, three, and four bedroom houses, all with private turfed gardens for families to enjoy time outdoors. Three bedroom houses here start from £91,250 for a 25% share based on a full market value of £365,000 and a deposit of £9,125.
At all of our marketing suites, our expert in-house team of consultants will be able to show you around show homes that showcase our specification and quality so you can visualise how available space can best be used. They will discuss options for your personal circumstances, and if you do find your dream home, they will be on hand to guide you through the conveyancing process and welcome you into your new home.
Wishing you the best of luck with your homeownership journey!
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