- Oxford born and bred professional buys locally thanks to Shared Ownership
- Cats, Crossrail and Co-working space drew this buyer to Southmere
- First time buyers realised it would be cheaper to buy together than rent individually
- First time buyers use Shared Ownership to find their first home together
- A Need for Speed: from renting in Kent to a quick commute on the Elizabeth Line from Southmere
- Design was key for architect’s first home in South East London
- First time buyers new kitchen inspires Great British Bake Off entry
- Help To Buy helps couple start family life with new Puppy in Deptford
- Shared Ownership provides luxury living at Lazenby Square
- Shared Ownership at Limebrook Walk keeps first time buyer close to home
First time buyer finds home in prime location through Shared Ownership in South London
“Zone at Oval Village is an incredible development in the perfect location. I love the fact I can see the whole city skyline, lit up at night, the view is stunning”
James, a single first time buyer, didn’t think homeownership in London would be an option
“I love the fact I can see the whole city skyline, lit up at night, the view is stunning” James comments. Finding himself newly single and sofa-surfing, London resident James Dance (27) was facing the reality of rented life again, believing that it would not be financially viable for him to purchase a property in London, until he found his dream apartment at Peabody New Homes’ sought after Zone at Oval Village development.
“Zone at Oval Village is an incredible development in the perfect location, there are so many pubs and restaurants right on my doorstep and the nightlife is great. Market Place by Vauxhall Station is an incredible venue, with loads of different food and drink stalls to choose from, it’s a great spot for a date! So far my favourite place locally for drinks has to be Mother Kellys at Albert Embankment in the railway arches, it’s a great bar with a wide range of craft beers and ales on offer.”
Technical recruiter James purchased a 30% share of a 1 bedroom Shared Ownership apartment at Zone, which offers captivating views across the capital. Talking about the development James says: “The specifications at Zone are top tier, I didn’t think I would be able to afford to buy in such a central location – I feel like I am punching!”
The location of Zone is a commuter’s dream with easy access to the city
James is familiar with this corner of South London and has friends living close by and had previously rented in Stockwell. “I am definitely a south of the river person, I love it here”! Like many young Londoners, James hadn’t heard of Shared Ownership, and was only made aware of it when discussing his options with a friend who had recently purchased in Wandsworth through the scheme.
He had been saving for about 4 years and with a deposit of £40,000 he began the process of searching for a place to call home. He first discovered Zone while viewing a different Peabody New Homes' development in Clapham and was keen to see as many properties as possible James booked in with Peabody New Homes to view Zone and was blown away by the specification on offer at the development. From the initial viewing to completing his purchase, receiving the keys and being able to unpack his moving boxes, took less than 3 months. “The whole process was a really positive experience. Lydia the Sales Negotiator was always prompt in communication, access for viewings was seamless and I even had a home demonstration when I moved in so I know how everything works!”
Zone at Oval Village offered impressive amenities and energy efficiency
The location of Zone is a commuter’s dream, James is able to get to work in Cannon Street in 15 mins, which allows him to spend more time enjoying out of work pursuits. Fitness enthusiast James spends his spare time in the gym or out running. Lockdown saw him take up a new hobby and James learnt how to play the piano. His new home offers plenty of space for the piano and also entertaining. James comments “I am really looking forward to having friends round, my kitchen is lovely and the space is great for hosting. I’ve spent the first month accumulating furniture and figuring out the vibe I wanted, now I’m just making the final stylistic touches. It’s been a fun process!”
“My private terrace is such an amazing feature, it’s so much bigger than I thought would be available for the area and I am looking forward to making the most of it during the summer months.” Residents at Zone also have access to a communal rooftop, so there is plenty of outside space to enjoy. James says: “There is a 24-hour concierge and the development has a luxury-hotel feel to it.”
"Shared Ownership is a dream for people who cannot afford to buy outright"
“Buying a new build was very appealing to me, I am not a practical person and the thought of renovations or DIY projects was terrifying. With the rising costs of energy bills, buying a new build seemed a sensible option.”
The homes at Zone range from one to two bedrooms and all come with a private balcony, concierge service, secure cycle storage, residents only pay-per-use gym access, communal rooftop and areas of green space and landscaping providing habitat for local wildlife.
James concludes: “Shared Ownership is a dream for people who cannot afford to buy outright. I highly recommend everyone explore the options available to them; Peabody New Homes were friendly and efficient!”
Find your dream home
At Peabody New Homes, we have a number of homes available to buy with Shared Ownership throughout London. Use our property search to discover a home for you and to register your interest.