the Ultimate Guide to ... GETTING ON THE LADDER, NEW HOMES AND SHARED OWNERSHIP
April/ May 2026 £4.99
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NATIONAL HOME BUYING WEEK TOOLKIT INCLUDED
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH NATASHA IRONS MP
HOTSPOTS • BARKING • SHOREHAM-ON-SEA • HOUNSLOW
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AFFORDABLE SCHEMES TO GET YOU ON THE LADDER
“Take your time and don't rush, but if you are in a position to buy, do it!”
Claire Sisk Blind content creator and disability advocate
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome
EDITORIAL – 020 3488 7754
Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
It seems to have been a very long, cold, wet winter but I am sure like me, you are looking forward to the new season with warmer days ahead and the Easter break. We are celebrating National Home Buying Week from 9-15 March and I hope you enjoy the extra supplement which is included with this issue,
Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant and Head of Special Events KATIE WRIGHT
Editorial and Special Events Assistant SOPHIE MUNNERY
giving you lots of information and help to buy your first home.You can also find plenty more on our Instagram @firsttimebuyermag and don’t forget to check the Hot Property listings on our website, firsttimebuyermag.com . It can be very confusing trying to navigate buying a home – but do turn to pages 22-26 where Debbie Clark looks at some of the schemes currently available and highlights some affordable homes around the country, which will hopefully help. I recently interviewed Natasha Irons MP and talked to her about housing in general and her own experience of buying her first home. Do turn to pages 28-29 and I hope you find it a very interesting read. Who can’t resist chocolate? With Easter approaching we have a round-up of the best Easter eggs available in the supermarkets, page 79. Mother’s Day is also round the corner, so do turn to pages 8-9 where we hand-pick some beautiful treats for those very special mums! I hope you enjoy this issue which is packed with advice to help you on your homebuying journey – enjoy!
Creative Director RYAN BEAL
Sub Editor KAY HILL
Social Media KATIE WRIGHT, SOPHIE MUNNERY
Contributors CHRIS CLARK, DEBBIE CLARK, KAY HILL, SOPHIE MUNNERY, LAURA DEAN- OSGOOD, JOEL TAYLOR, NEILL TICKLE, GINETTA VEDRICKAS, STEPHEN WARD, BEVIN WOBY, KATIE WRIGHT
ADVERTISING 020 3488 7754
Director of Advertising/Exhibition Sales LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Special Events KATIE WRIGHT – National Home Buying Week – First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards katie@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Accounts accounts@ultimateguidecompany.com Managing Director SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
Until next time, happy house hunting,
@firsttimebuyermag
firsttimebuyeronline
SUBSCRIPTIONS 020 3488 7754
SWITCHBOARD 020 3488 7754
EDITOR’S PICKS…
All advertising copy for June/July 2026 must be received before 6 May 2026. 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 2008-2026. 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.
Buyers are more cost-aware right now, but Shared Ownership resales are still happening. Gemma Gibson, Agony Agent, page 90 Caroline Coskry, 20 Questions, page 106 Do your research and be brave. Even though it feels daunting don’t let it deter you.
We love that the development is just surrounded with green space, woods and walks, and that Chorley is a short drive away.
I love strolling into Whalley and going to the local shops, restaurants and bars right on my doorstep – it’s great for catching up with friends. Louise Clarke, Real Life page 68
Farrah Mathur, House Hunter, page 14
Don’t put pressure on yourself to make your home perfect in a short space of time. Mel Lamacraft, At home with, page 12
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 3
CONTENTS
APRIL/MAY 2026 / ISSUE 118 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK
What’s in…
69 The best FTB properties
68 After renting for two years, Louise Clarke decided to return to Lancashire where she had grown up. After living back with her parents temporarily, she bought a three bedroom semi-detached house in the village of Whalley.
HOMEPAGE 8 FTB Loves. . . . It’s time to spoil your mum on Mother’s Day. Here we round up some lovely treats to make her day extra special. 10 Living Spring is a time when we want to spend time with friends and family
and we bring you some inspired ideas of how to create the perfect space when you are hosting – an environment that’s welcoming, relaxed and effortlessly pretty. 12 At home with: Mel Lamacraft Mel Lamacraft is a highly successful influencer who provides social media content on everything to do with interiors. She talks to Lynda Clark about her new home, which she is currently refurbishing, her career and has some great advice for first time buyers. 14 House Hunter We go on the hunt with Farrah Mathur and Nikki Yen who are looking to buy a new home near Preston with at least two bedrooms and a garden. 16 Developer’s doctor Neill Tickle, Managing Director, Counties & Capital Group, answers your property question.
FEATURED
18 The View: Claire Sisk Claire is a blind content creator and advocate and has a regular radio show on RNIB Connect Radio. She is also the first blind person to lead cookery lifestyle features on ITV’s This Morning . She tells Lynda Clark about her life, her sight loss and has some excellent advice for first time buyers.
22 Pick Your Path to Homeownership It’s very difficult to navigate the path to homeownership, but Debbie Clark takes a closer look at some of the great schemes available to help you take that first step on the property ladder, including Shared Ownership, Rent to Buy and London Living Rent.
10
22
4 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
CONTENTS
CLAIRE SISK, PAGE 18
18 Claire Sisk
I THINK IT’S A GREAT IDEA TO RENT IN DIFFERENT
AREAS BEFORE YOU SETTLE ON BUYING. YOU MAY LIKE AN AREA BUT UNTIL YOU
EXPERIENCE LIVING THERE YOU REALLY DON’T KNOW 56 Hotspot Shoreham-by-Sea We take a look at Shoreham-by-Sea as a place to consider your property search.
REGULARS
can be overwhelming. Metro Finance explains what you should expect to help you prepare for obtaining your first mortgage. 86 Finance Kay Hill explores a new report suggesting that a lack of financial savvy could cost you hundreds of pounds a year. Find out how important it is to take the right action at the right time. 88 Market Ginetta Vedrickas asks if buying a new home – avoiding problems like damp and poor natural light – can actually lead to better health. 90 Agony Agent All your property questions answered by our panel of experts. 93 Buyer’s Guide Check out FTB’s Buyer’s Guide, which walks you through the property buying process. 98 Staircasing: The difference between Interim and Final Staircasing Joel Taylor, Head of Business Development and Marketing at Owen Paulo, explains the important differences between interim and final staircasing. 100 Directory Check which scheme is right for you, plus some useful contacts. 106 20 Questions We ask 20 quick-fire questions to a property expert and in this issue Caroline Coskry, Founder and Chair of the Oracle Group, is in the spotlight.
38 Hotspot We look at Hounslow as a place to live. 60 Hotspot Is Barking the place you would like to buy your first home? 78 First home, first meal This mouthwatering but simple recipe for brown butter maple and pecan cookies from Ella at Bake Well Being is bound to be favourite with everyone! 79 Egg-stra, Egg-stra With Easter fast approaching we bring you our favourite chocolatey eggs and tasty treats from leading supermarkets – yummy!! 80 Choose the right conveyancer Stephen Ward, Director of Strategy and External Relations at the Council of Licenced Conveyancers, explains why it is so important to chose the correct conveyancer when buying a new build home. 82 Understanding ID Checks and Source-of- Funds Requirements When Buying a Home Bevin Woby, Director at Shared Direction Conveyancing, explains why conveyancers have to confirm the source of the funds you are using when purchasing your home. 84 Understanding the Mortgage Application Process For many first time buyers the process of buying your first home
77 Competition
Win a Burg-Wächter Combi-Line 410E safe worth £419.99.
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 5
LETTERS
Mailbox WRITE TO US!
Please send us your questions, comments and suggestions concerning property, or the articles in First Time Buyer magazine.
lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk
MORTGAGE MATTERS
I am about to purchase my first home and I’m really excited as I have wanted to get on the property ladder
for a long time. However, 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. Billy Watson FTB : We are pleased that you are buying your first property and we understand how confusing mortgages can be. It can be hard to budget, and it is important that you are aware of what you will be paying and when, so you can budget around it. 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 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.
ADOPTION OF ROADS AND SEWERS I am buying my first home, which is very exciting, but why does my solicitor keep talking about “adoption of roads and sewers”, and should I be worried if they aren’t adopted yet? Frank Russell FTB says: When your solicitor talks about the “adoption” of roads and sewers, they are checking who will be legally responsible for maintaining them in the future. On many new build developments the roads, pavements and drains are built by the developer first and are only adopted later by the local authority or water company once they meet the required standards. Until that happens, responsibility usually sits with a private management company and the cost is shared by the homeowners through an estate charge. This is important because if the roads or sewers are never adopted, you could still be paying privately for their upkeep years after you move in, which can affect both your ongoing costs and how attractive the property is when you come to sell.
This issue’s star letter prize wins a copy of Tiny Houses from Prestel, worth £19.99. The book showcases inspirational small houses with unique character and style from all around the world. At the forefront of modern architecture, tiny houses exemplify ideals of minimalism, freedom and low-impact construction – not to mention impeccable style and comfort. This book features highly detailed, full-colour interior and exterior shots, along with informative texts that explore
RUNNING OUT OF TIME I am rather worried about what happens if my mortgage offer runs out because the build of my first home is delayed? As a first time buyer it is all a bit of an unknown and I don’t want
VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the first time, go to firsttimebuyermag.com of your mortgage offer at the point you reserve a new build home, and to make sure your contract includes a realistic build timetable and a long-stop date, so you have a clear exit if the property is not ready within the agreed timeframe. your affordability and the property value, and there is no guarantee the new offer will be on the same terms as the previous one was. This is why it is important to check the length
the inspiration and context of each home. While some of these structures feature state-of-the-art architectural flourishes and luxurious amenities, others are modest and environmentally sustainable. prestel.com
PARKING SPACE I am looking at a new build apartment but I need a parking space. Do I really own my parking space, or could it be taken away later? Emma Black FTB says:With new build homes, a parking space does not always mean the same thing, so it is important to check exactly what you are buying. Some spaces are owned outright and
shown on your legal title, while others are only allocated to you under the estate rules or your lease, which means they can sometimes be reallocated or altered later. The only way to be certain is to ask your solicitor to confirm whether the parking space is included in your title plan (for a house) or specifically demised to you in the lease (for a flat), rather than relying on what is shown on the site plan or sales brochure.
any undue stress Elizabeth Essoo
FTB says: If your mortgage offer expires because the build is delayed, you will usually need to reapply for a new mortgage, and this can be risky if your circumstances or interest rates have changed since you were first approved. Even if your situation is the same, the lender will reassess
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 7
FTB LOVES
BECAUSE SHE’S WORTH IT
Looking for a thoughtful way to say thank you this Mother’s Day? FTB has rounded up a feelgood mix of lovely little treats and meaningful finds, perfect for showing appreciation without overthinking it. These gifts are all about making her smile
Quilted wash bag , £25, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Mother’s Day plush , £2, Poundland, poundland.co.uk
Gift box , £1, Poundland, poundland.co.uk
Sending owers by post for Mother’s Day is cute because they’re a joyful surprise, beautifully packaged, all gorgeous and affordable, with prices that vary to suit every mum everywhere today.
Knitted bomber jacket , £72, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Adaora owers , £95, Bloom & Wild, bloomandwild.com
Fish glass vase , £19.99, TK Maxx, tkmaxx.com
8 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
FTB LOVES
Crossbody bag , £28, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Phalaenopsis plant , £14.99, Dobbies Garden Centre, dobbies.com
Mother’s Day mini candle , £6.50, Little Village Candles, littlevillagecandles.co.uk
To do list , £4.99, TK Maxx, Tmaxx.com
Think outside the box Skip flowers and book her a blissful head spa or her favourite nail voucher. Time to relax, recharge, and feel truly spoiled.
Mother’s Day hanging plaque , £1, Poundland, poundland.co.uk
Everything Sleekster box , £29.95, Hotel Chocolat, hotelchocolat.com
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 9
Homepage LIVING
HOSTING IN FULL BLOOM Spring is the season of easy gatherings and thoughtful details. From floral candles and pastel palettes to playful tableware and soft textures, spring hosting doesn’t have to mean a perfect table or a big guest list – it is all about creating a space that feels welcoming, relaxed and effortlessly pretty – no formal dinner party required!
Sophie Robinson uted glass vase , £18, Sophie Robinson acrylic short tumbler , £2.50, Sophie Robinson abstract glass vase , £25, Sophie Robinson acrylic tall tumbler , £2.50, Sophie Robinson Beldi oral parasol , £89, Dunelm
Geometric patterned cake stand , £16.99, TK Maxx
Pink breakfast slogan dinner plate , £3.50, Matalan
Buon Appetito apron , £22.50, Oliver Bonas
Snack dishes , set of 3, £12.99, TK Maxx
3 piece foldable chair and table , £79.99, TK Maxx
CONTACTS » B&M bmstores.co.uk » Dunelm dunelm.com » Gisela Graham London giselagraham.co.uk » Lights4fun lights4fun.co.uk » Matalan matalan.co.uk » Meri Meri merimeri.co.uk » Oliver Bonas oliverbonas.com » TK Maxx tkmaxx.com
10 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
Homepage LIVING
Molly Mahon hanging lanterns , pack of 3, £30, Meri Meri
Waved edged side plate , £4.99, TK Maxx
1.5m pre-lit Daisy Dreams garland , £34.99, TruGlow lilac ribbed LED pillar candle trio , £27.99, TruGlow sage green ribbed LED pillar candle trio , £27.99, Lights4fun
Floral frill edge cushion , £10, B&M
Tea towels , set of 2, £6.99, TK Maxx
Glass wild ower bottle vase , £6.49, Gisela Graham London
Pastel daisies wreath , £33.99, Gisela Graham London
Pressed glass pitcher , £29.99, Gisela Graham London
Pastel cutlery set , £14.99, TK Maxx
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 11
Homepage LIVING
Mel Lamacraft is a highly successful influencer who provides social media content on everything to do with interiors. She has recently bought a new home in Essex which is in need of some serious renovation and she is looking forward to documenting the refurb. She talks to Lynda Clark about her home, her career and has some excellent advice for first time buyers At home with: Mel Lamacraft
FTB : Tell us about your first step on the property ladder? ML : I moved into my partner’s flat, which he owned, and when we had our first baby we decided we needed to move. It was the first place I had ever bought and it was quite stressful. After going to viewing after viewing with our tiny new baby we placed offers on a few homes which we both liked when our daughter was first born but often faced rejections due to the demand at the time. It ended up taking about six months before we finally found our home and moved in, so the whole process was quite hard especially with a tiny baby to look after as well. We bought a three bedroom semi-detached house which was in need of some tlc. We were very happy there as it had ample space for what we needed at the time! FTB : Where do you live now? ML: We sold the house last year and bought another property at the end of the same road, but it needs a full renovation. The house is a really peculiar shape and very dated as it has only ever had one owner who didn’t do anything to it. Because the work is so extensive we are staying with some relatives but we absolutely have to move back in at the end of the summer as my daughter starts school, so there is a great deal of work to do in a few months. The house is rather like a maze but when we viewed it we really knew it had loads of potential and were very excited. We are planning a double storey extension on the side of the house and to create a big open- plan living/dining/kitchen space. Upstairs we are going to have a wraparound landing leading to the four bedrooms. The main bedroom will have a dressing room with a door so that could be turned into a fifth bedroom if we need it. My partner is busy tearing down walls at the moment but soon the builders will start and things should really begin to happen! FTB : How did you become an influencer? ML: I started around 10 years ago when I was at university. I am dyslexic and I wanted to improve my writing skills so it was really just a hobby. I also dreamed of one day having a small little business and saw this as a start, so I carried on as it was great fun.
“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN AMBITIOUS AND HAVE A HUGE DRIVE TO SUCCEED AND IT’S REALLY NICE TO BE DOING THIS AS IT’S SOMETHING JUST FOR ME”
12 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
Homepage LIVING
When I had my first baby I decided to leave my job and was lucky enough to be in the position to be a stay-at-home mum. So I started doing more social media content. When I had my second, my life became mostly about having a baby, baby products and mum life but my account really took off and some videos had a million views which was pretty incredible! I started getting approached by different companies too and started making some money, which was actually the same as what I made at my job! I have always been ambitious and have a huge drive to succeed and it’s really nice to be doing this as it’s something just for me. I have taken a little step back as moving out of our old house and buying the new one with all the work that needs doing has taken up a lot of time. I am really looking forward to documenting the renovation though as I am very passionate about it. When I have been asked to visit new build developments to capture content for clients I would take the children with me as they were fairly good and it worked really well. I now have an agent, Influenced by Oracle, and they have been brilliant. FTB : You are very interested in interiors can you tell us about this? ML: When I was growing up I was always interested in design and was constantly moving my bedroom around and decorating. I loved creating new styles and designs and I studied textile design so it has always been part of what I love to do. My dream is to have my own brand of soft furnishings like cushions and curtains. I love picking pieces up from Vinted or antique shops which could be totally wrecked but I enjoy restoring them to bring them back to life. I also love upcycling and I think a mix of old and new works incredibly well together. FTB : What advice do you have for first time buyers? ML: You don’t have to buy everything brand new – you may want to invest in certain main things like a bed or sofa but you can find some great items on Vinted, Facebook Marketplace and secondhand shops. For example, I bought a lovely wooden table and it looked amazing. Real wood will last forever and you can easily upcycle it and make it unique to you. The antique look and vintage furniture are all coming back into fashion and it looks great if you mix old and new. Don’t put pressure on yourself to make your home perfect in a short space of time. Take it slowly and do one room at a time, enjoy the process of decorating, that’s the best bit!
“YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY EVERYTHING BRAND NEW – YOU MAY WANT TO INVEST IN CERTAIN MAIN THINGS LIKE A BED OR SOFA BUT YOU CAN FIND SOME GREAT ITEMS ON VINTED, FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE AND SECONDHAND SHOPS”
@life.at.Mel’s
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 13
Homepage FIRST RUNG
The HOUSE HUNTER
What we found…
THE MERSEY CONNECTION THE PERFECT BLEND
Eagles Green Burtonwood, Warrington
Putting Green at Brackley Village Little Hulton, Manchester
This month FTB goes on the hunt with Farrah Mathur and Nikki Yen who are looking to buy a new home near Preston with at least two bedrooms and a garden
Just 10 miles west of Manchester, desirable Brackley Village is an ideal location for house hunters seeking a slower pace of life, but within easy reach of the city centre. The town of Walkden is close for a good selection of shops, while Preston, Bolton and Manchester are all under 30 minutes by car. This development offers a range of two bedroom apartments, as well as two, three and four bedroom houses, created with a focus on sustainability, community and quality design. Interiors are smart and modern, featuring sleek kitchens with integrated appliances and fully tiled bathrooms.
When complete, this much anticipated development will feature a wide range of energy- ef cient one to ve bedroom properties. With Warrington less than 10 minutes away, the homes are ideally located for enjoying busy town life, while lovely Sankey Valley Park and River Mersey lie within very easy reach. Anwyl is offering a selection of one and two bedroom homes through Discount Market Sale. The two bedroom houses feature open-plan living/ dining areas that open through French doors into a well-sized rear garden.
PROFILE
Names Farrah Mathur, 29, Nikki Yen, 32 Occupations Researcher, data analyst Maximum budget £240,000
Requirements A house in a semi-rural setting, with parking and outdoor space, good connections to Preston and close to plenty of local amenities
What they wanted…
We are looking for a lovely country-style retreat for us and our dog-babies, Ren and Jenkins. We’re in a small, ground- oor at at the moment in Preston and we just want more space, a garden for the dogs to run around, local elds and hills to explore, and an overall better quality of life. We both work from home and don’t plan on changing that: Farrah has always worked freelance, while my head of ce is in Preston. As long as I can get into Preston within an hour, I’m happy, as I travel in for company meetings once a month. We’ve been saving with the intent of buying a house. We like the idea of a semi-rural setting within easy reach of a big town such as Chorley, and not too far from Preston – where we’re both from, and where our parents live. Our must-haves are a house with at least two bedrooms, a garden, private parking and a good community feel.”
bellway.co.uk
anwylhomes.co.uk
*20% Discount Market Sale full market value is £303,998
What they thought…
There are some lovely rural areas on the doorstep of this development, while Manchester and Preston are both within easy reach! This is de nitely a good spot for nding that balance between busy and laid-back life – a dream for us. We’re big fans of the layouts of the two bedroom houses – we love the idea of the dogs being able to roam around from the house to the garden at their leisure. There’s such a lot of space compared to what we’re used to.”
Although this is a little further south than we’d originally looked, it’s a fantastic location. Farrah and I would both love to be so close to Liverpool – it’s a great city and we’ve spent so much time there. Warrington is just down the road and there’s a lot to offer in the area. The houses are really impressive. We like the large patio doors looking out to the garden and can imagine chilled summer days here. It’s great there’s a downstairs bathroom, as well as loads of storage.”
14 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
Homepage FIRST RUNG
First choice!
THE CITY OUTSKIRTS
THE VILLAGE LIFE
L&Q at D’Urton Grange Preston, Lancashire
Church View Coppull, Lancashire
The sought-after town of Coppull is the location for this new collection of two and three bedroom houses. The properties enjoy a semi-rural setting, with the stunning Lancashire countryside on the doorstep, as well as the shops and amenities of nearby Coppull reached in just a few minutes on foot. The larger town of Chorley is around a 10-minute drive away, offering further retail, dining and leisure facilities. The three bedroom Ingleton house features spacious living areas, a utility room, downstairs cloakroom, and three well-sized bedrooms with an en suite to the main bedroom.
The sought-after suburb of Broughton, on the outskirts of Preston, is home to this new collection of family properties that have been created with modern living in mind. The stylish three and four bedroom houses feature spacious living areas, separate lounge, downstairs WC and utility room, as well as an en suite from the main bedroom. Kitchens are bright and contemporary and open into well-sized rear gardens. The thriving city of Preston is just four miles south, for super-speedy access to the busy city and the fantastic range of arts, entertainment and historical pursuits on offer.
THE NEXT STEP
snugghomes.co.uk
lqhomes.com
*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £211,000 **Prices correct for phase 1 – and may increase for subsequent phases
“The houses here really do tick all our boxes! We love that the development is just surrounded with green space, woods and walks, and that Chorley is a short drive away. We have completed our application and look forward to the next steps.”
We really like the style and layouts of these houses. There’s plenty of space inside and out, and it’s a fab location. Coppull looks like a nice area, and there are so many lovely places right on the doorstep such as woodlands and country parks – we’d never run out of options for long summer walks with the dogs. Chorley is close by, too, which is ideal for us, while getting to Preston for work would take less than 30 minutes in the car.”
These houses are just lovely. The three bedroom properties offer so much space, which is something that we are just not used to. It’s such an exciting prospect to have enough rooms to host family and friends, or just have extra places for working from home. This is an excellent location, too: it’s a good area with plenty to do, lots of nice walks to access – plus getting into Preston to get our x of city life would be very easy indeed, only about a 15-minute drive.”
This development really does seem to have everything we’ve asked for. It is a great size, with a good garden, so it’s ideal for us as dog owners. We love that it quite literally backs on to the woodland and open countryside, which is like a dream come true in terms of feeling like we have a real rural escape. We’d really get a feel for country life, but the town centre is only a couple of miles away – we could walk or cycle on nicer days. We’d be close to some of Farrah’s family, which would be lovely, and also very handy for those times we need a dog sitter.
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 15
ADVICE
With more than 25 years’ experience across land acquisition, construction and housing delivery, Neill Tickle, Managing Director of Counties & Capital Group, is currently supporting the development, delivery and sales strategy for Tapestry, in Battle, a new community bringing 200 homes to East Sussex. With the show home now open, he explains why this is a rare opportunity for buyers Q What makes Tapestry such an important development for Battle? A Battle is one of those rare locations that truly offers everything. It is underfloor heating, EV charging points and strong insulation all come as standard. Buyers are investing in lower running
Neill Tickle, Managing Director, Counties & Capital Group Q Does the development have a wider story? A Yes. The name Tapestry references the Bayeux Tapestry and Battle’s place in British history. It felt important to acknowledge that heritage, while also creating the next chapter for the town with homes for local families, first time buyers and those moving up the ladder. Q What is your advice to prospective buyers at Tapestry? A Register early, visit the show home and speak to the sales team. Understand your affordability and explore all available options. New build homes offer energy efficiency, warranties and reduced maintenance compared to buying an older property. For many buyers, that certainty makes a real difference. The first residents are due to move in during the early part of 2026, marking a significant milestone for this brand new East Sussex community.
costs as well as in high-specification finishes. The layouts are generous and light filled, kitchens include integrated appliances and stone worktops, and the gardens are landscaped. The aim has always been to match the expectations of buyers in this location. Q Why do you think that now is the right time to buy? A The show home is now open, and there is nothing quite like walking through a finished property to understand the space and design. It allows buyers to visualise how they could live there. We are also continuing to see demand for energy-efficient homes in well-connected market towns. Battle offers countryside, community and convenience in equal measure. In areas where new supply is limited, high-quality developments attract strong interest.
a highly desirable East Sussex town with history, excellent schools, a strong independent high street and direct rail links to London. Developments of this scale have not come forward here in more than a decade, so there is genuine demand. Tapestry will deliver 200 homes as a natural extension to the existing community. Seventy homes will be available to buy outright from £455,000, with a further 130 delivered through affordable rent and Shared Ownership. That tenure mix is vital in creating a balanced and sustainable neighbourhood. Q What stands out to you about the homes themselves? A Quality and long-term thinking. These homes are designed for modern living, with energy efficiency built in from the start. Air source heat pumps,
Looking for a new home where heritage meets modern living?
Tapestry brings 70 three and four bedroom energy-ef cient new homes to one of East Sussex’s most sought-after towns. Battle combines medieval charm with everyday convenience. Independent shops, cafes and pubs line the historic high street, while well regarded schools and direct rail links to London make it ideal for families and commuters. Homes at Tapestry are designed for contemporary lifestyles, with spacious layouts, integrated kitchens with stone worktops, air source heat pumps, under oor heating and EV charging points included as standard. With the show home now open, buyers can experience the quality and craftsmanship rst hand.
For more information or to register your interest, visit tapestrylife.co.uk or call 01424 390 023
16 First Time Buyer June/July 2018 April/May 2026
THE VIEW
Claire Sisk is a blind content creator and advocate and also has a regular radio show on RNIB Connect Radio . She has broken barriers by becoming the first blind person to lead cookery lifestyle features on ITVs This Morning . She chats to Lynda Clark about her life, her sight loss and has some great advice for first time buyers DONT STOP ME NOW!
20 First Time Buyer December 2021/January 2022
18 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
THE VIEW
"THERE IS SO MUCH PRESSURE TO GET ON THE LADDER BUT IF YOU MAKE A MISTAKE AND BUY THE WRONG HOME IT CAN BE VERY COSTLY"
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 19
THE VIEW
C laire is a legend! When I meet her I am blown away at her enthusiasm for life and all it has to offer. She has fully accepted her “new way of life” as a blind person and does not let this disability deter her from doing anything she sets her mind on – I am in awe! Claire said, “I had a very normal upbringing and I have a twin brother and two older sisters. We lived in a town in Sussex and had a pretty regular childhood growing up in the 80s and 90s. We played outside with our friends on bikes and went to the woods and pretended a stick was in fact a dog! I always loved the idea of being in the performing arts and particularly wanted to be a lighting or sound technician. “After I left school I started training to be a lighting technician but I realised I was scared of heights so I changed to sound as I love music, but I just couldn’t get a job! So, I ended up as a post lady and worked for the Royal Mail in Crawley. I loved my work and it was great in the summer cycling around on my bike listening to my Discman but in winter it was hard. “I then became pregnant when I was still very young. I was expecting twins and I had a very tough time. They were identical girls but very sadly I lost one of them and the doctors warned me that the other twin had a slim chance of surviving. I couldn’t work for about four months but eventually I had a very healthy baby girl who weighed over eight pounds!! “I couldn’t go back to being a post girl as I had to start work at 4am so after six months' maternity leave I found a job with an airline. I started off in the call centre but that didn’t last too long as I didn’t like the way the general public spoke to me, so I moved on to a more tech-based job. I stayed there for nearly 20 years until I was made redundant during Covid.” But it was in 2009 that everything changed though as Claire had two strokes – one in the April and the other in September. She said, “It was incredibly scary and I had always suffered from migraine headaches but I woke up and realised I had lost the ability to string sentences together. I felt very unwell but I drove my daughter to school and went to work and spoke to my manager.They called an ambulance and I was whisked off to hospital and they confirmed I had had a stroke followed
"I AM ALSO AN AMBASSADOR FOR THE RNIB AND WE WORK WITH PARLIAMENT AND MPS TO TRY TO MAKE CHANGES FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND"
a few months later by a second one. Once I was back at work I was driving home one day and realised I couldn’t see the road
20 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
THE VIEW
signs. I wore glasses then and I assumed I needed a new prescription so I booked an appointment with the optician. “They could see something in my eye and sent me to A&E.They looked at my eyes and said that the rods and cones, which are the eye’s light receptors, had been affected by the stroke. It didn’t stop there either as after doing more tests they saw there were lots of different diseases attacking my eyes and the core cells were dying. They predicted I would be completely blind by the time I was 40. “After a different diagnosis I was told that my peripheral vision should stay intact and then in 2013 I started noticing patches and that is when I had my driving licence taken off me. For the next four year things got progressively worse and then I woke up one morning with very, very little vision. I saw the optician that day who confirmed that all the cells had died and I was registered blind.” She then spent around five months applying for a new job even though it was during lockdown. “I applied for about 150 jobs and never got an interview. I always ticked the disability box as my sight was impaired and that had an impact on my application I think. “After I had applied for 251 jobs I hit rock bottom and was very anxious. When I was registered blind I was crossing the road one day and using my white cane. Some former colleagues happened to see me and it was then that it truly hit home. They encouraged me to post about my experiences on social media and that is how it all started. It is wonderful to get messages from other people in the blind community and I have connected with many of them. There are one in four people who are blind who are unable to get a job – it’s shocking.” Before Claire had lost the majority of her sight, she used to put a blindfold on and practice her make-up, cleaning and cooking and navigating the kitchen and her home so she was fully prepared for what life would be like in the future. She was by then a single parent and was terrified that social services would take her daughter away so she had to prove she could look after and take care of her. Claire is now an Accessibility Advocate and has a regular radio show on RNIB Connect which she loves. About once a month she also presents the live cooking segment on ITVs This Morning . “I have talking scales and jugs, and a few other gadgets, but otherwise I cook like everyone
"IT IS WONDERFUL TO GET MESSAGES FROM OTHER PEOPLE IN THE BLIND COMMUNITY AND I HAVE CONNECTED WITH MANY OF THEM. THERE ARE ONE IN FOUR PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND WHO ARE UNABLE TO GET A JOB – IT’S SHOCKING"
we are looking to downsize. We will stay in Hertfordshire though and my daughter, who works in London is moving out and getting her own place.” I ask Claire what her plans for the future are and she says, ”I would love to do more presenting and I want to be a good role model as the amount of messages I get on social media is incredible. They tell me I have really helped as many people feel isolated and lonely so I want to be the person who can give them hope for a fulfilled life ahead. ”I do work but I am also an Ambassador for the RNIB and we work with Parliament and MPs to try to make changes for people who are blind. Sadly, they always come up with the same old line – no budget – but we will continue to shout about it and hopefully get things done. It is appalling that many blind people struggle to get employment and that really has to change.” Claire has some sound advice for first time buyers. ”There is so much pressure to get on the ladder but if you make a mistake and buy the wrong home it can be very costly. “I think it’s a great idea to rent in different areas before you settle on buying.You may like an area but until you experience living there you really don’t know. It’s such a huge amount of money to invest only to make a mistake. Take your time and don’t rush but if you are in a position to buy then I would suggest you do it as long as you are 100% sure it’s the home you love.” When we finish I feel like I have known Claire for a very long time. Her energy and spirit shine through loud and clear and it was a privilege to talk to her. Claire Sisk is a blind content creator and advocate – follow her @CanSeeCantSee_ Instagram: instagram.com/ canseecantsee_ TikTok: tiktok.com/@canseecantsee
else. It’s great fun and I love doing the shows.” She also work with brands to make things more accessible and is proud of what she has recently achieved at Wembley Stadium. “They had some disability access but absolutely nothing for blind people. It seems so unfair that we are deprived of what everyone else has. So last summer every concert held at Wembley was audio described. I worked closely with the sound technician and as I love live music it was like a dream come true. I am so proud and I received so many messages it was absolutely wonderful.” She regularly posts on Instagram, Facebook,TikTok and YouTube and focuses around what life is like as a blind person. She adds, “We support each other and share our tips and tricks. For example, I show everyone how you can do your make-up and cook as I want everyone who is going through sight loss to know it doesn’t stop you doing things.” Claire bought a house with her partner until they split up when her daughter was three. She then went on to buy her own home with her daughter and stayed there until she went to university. “It was hard when I thought about her leaving home as we have an incredible bond. But I had re-met someone who I used to work with at the airline and we became partners. He suggested we both sold our homes and bought one together. It was the perfect idea as I knew I would miss my daughter so much. “We are now married and live in the house we bought in Hertfordshire. It’s an old house which I think was originally two stables. It has four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms and is lovely but it’s so cold like many old houses can be! My daughter lives in the annexe in our garden so it works very well and my husband’s two children from his previous marriage pop in all the time. We have realised that the house is a little big for us now and so
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 21
HOMEBUYING OPTIONS
As a first time buyer, navigating your journey into homeownership can seem daunting. The good news is the path is well-travelled and you will find plenty of support along the way. Debbie Clark takes a closer look at some of the schemes currently available, to help you choose the right route to reach your desired destination PICK YOUR PATH TO HOMEOWNERSHIP
SHARED OWNERSHIP Backed by the Government, Shared Ownership is a scheme to help buyers purchase a share (between 10% and 75%) of a new build or resale property, while paying subsidised rent on the remaining portion.You take out a mortgage to buy your share and will also need to pay a deposit, usually between 5% and 10% of the share you’re buying. All Shared Ownership homes (houses and flats) are leasehold properties, and you will usually also pay monthly ground rent and service charges. In time, you can buy more shares in your home, known as "staircasing". The amount of rent you pay is based on the landlord’s share, so as you buy more shares, you’ll pay less rent. First time buyers can buy a home through Shared Ownership if both of the following are true: • Your household income is £80,000 a year or less (£90,000 in London) • You cannot afford all of the deposit and mortgage payments for a home that meets your needs. Also, one of the following must also be true: • You’re a first time buyer • You used to own a home but cannot afford to buy one now • You’re forming a new household – for example, after a relationship breakdown • You’re an existing shared owner, and you want to move • You own a home and want to move but cannot afford a new home that meets your needs. For some homes you may also need to live in, work in, or have a connection to the area you want to buy the home. LONDON LIVING RENT London Living Rent is a Government- backed scheme, offered by the Mayor of
to save a deposit and providing them with the option to buy their home on a Shared Ownership basis during their tenancy. London Living Rent tenants are also given extra priority for other Shared Ownership homes in London.
London, providing intermediate affordable housing in the capital. Designed for middle-income households who want to build up savings to eventually buy a home through Shared Ownership, London Living Rent is only available to those who live in London, do not already own another home, and have a maximum household income of £75,000. The scheme provides high-quality properties on stable tenancies of a minimum of three years (these can be extended to a maximum of 10 years), with below-market value rents, based on a third of local household incomes. Landlords are expected to encourage their tenants into homeownership by supporting them
RENT TO BUY
Another Government housing scheme, Rent to Buy is designed to help buyers save for a deposit while renting at reduced cost on an Intermediate Rent basis, typically lasting up to five years. Available across England (excluding London), Rent to Buy provides middle-income earners with the opportunity to live in a high-quality
22 First Time Buyer April/May 2026
HOMEBUYING OPTIONS
HOMES AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET
MILTON, OXFORDSHIRE The Canopies
DARWEN, LANCASHIRE Tower Gardens
Greencore Homes is offering a collection of 42 homes set within a landscape-led development. Surrounded by mature trees and natural greenery, the homes include one, two, three and four bedroom houses and apartments. With 27 homes currently available for private sale, there are additional purchase options, including Shared Ownership and First Homes to be released later in the year. As an award-winning sustainable housebuilder, Greencore Homes has designed these properties as Better Than Net Zero, with a strong focus on promoting low carbon living and healthy environments. greencorehomes.co.uk/our-homes/the- canopies 01865 110 044 First Homes is offered on newly built homes from developers and pre-owned properties previously bought through the scheme, with every home sold, including houses and apartments, valued by an independent surveyor to make sure the reduction is based on actual market value. Homes cannot cost more than £250,000 (£420,000 in London) after the discount has been applied. To qualify, buyers must meet specific criteria, including income and residency requirements, and properties can only be sold at the same discount percentage, maintaining affordability for future buyers. DEPOSIT UNLOCK Deposit Unlock is a scheme devised by the housebuilding industry, in collaboration with mortgage lenders, enabling buyers to purchase a new build home with just a 5% deposit. Available on a wide range of UK new build properties, up to £833,250, it is a solution offered to give more people the opportunity to buy their own home, and own 100% of the property. Buyers benefit from an insurance- backed guarantee, allowing them to access competitive mortgages rates from
Elan Homes is offering two, three and four bedroom homes at Tower Gardens, with a 5% deposit boost available on selected properties. With a range of plots and property styles available, the development – conveniently located between Darwen and Blackburn – has broad appeal. Lower Darwen Primary School is close by, making it an ideal base for raising a family, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors nearby, including Bold Venture Park and Jubilee Tower, which inspired the development name. elan-homes.co.uk/developments/tower- gardens 0845 528 0789 participating bank lenders. There are currently only a few mortgage providers that will offer mortgages to people buying through the Deposit Unlock scheme and first time buyers should speak to an independent financial adviser. So far, 2026 is treating first time buyers well – lenders are offering competitive mortgages again, Government schemes are plentiful, and developers have added incentives to help seal the deal. Whatever path you choose to homeownership, sharetobuy.com is a great place to start. Check what schemes you are eligible for and look to see which developments are offering them. Finally, if you have seen a development you like, be proactive. Make an appointment to see the sales team and register your interest, even if you aren’t 100% sure you have saved enough of a deposit! Talk to an independent financial adviser who will be able to tell you what you can afford – it may be better than you expect. Worst case, you still have some saving to do but have a better understanding of what is needed and the timescales involved. Close, but not quite there? Don’t be afraid to make an offer on the advertised price – they can only say no!
THEALE, READING Herons Lake
Abri Homes is offering this collection of 48 modern two, three and four bedroom homes within a stunning waterfront development in the village of Theale. All homes bene t from plenty of natural light and have a parking space included. With Reading just a 15-minute drive away and parks and waterside walks on the doorstep, Herons Lake brings a perfect balance of village calm and city connections. abrihomes.co.uk/properties/heronslake 0800 145 6663
*Based on a 40% share of the full market value of £310,000
new home typically set at 80% of the local market rate, with a fixed rate of inflation. The scheme, primarily aimed at first time buyers, has eligibility criteria stipulating that applicants must be part of a working household and have a good credit history. Individual housing associations may also have their own criteria. A savings plan will be put in place to help tenants raise a sufficient deposit to purchase the home, or another property, in the future. Tenants are able to make an offer to buy the property on a Shared Ownership basis at any time, assuming they are still eligible for the scheme.The housing provider will also offer tenants regular progress reviews, and the savings period can also be extended if a bit more time is needed.
FIRST HOMES
The First Homes discount scheme is a Government-backed initiative to help first time buyers purchase a home for less than the market price. Available to local residents and key workers, ensuring that people who already live in the area benefit from the scheme, discounted properties are offered with a discount of at least 30% to 50% of the property’s market value.
First Time Buyer April/May 2026 23
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