First Time Buyer April/May 2026

20 QUESTIONS

Caroline Coskry is Founder and Chair of The Oracle Group, an award-winning, specialist PR and creative communications agency that works with property and housing sector clients across PR, events, social media and digital content

Would you rather have a library room or media room at home? Just some space to myself would be nice! But I’m hoping when we move house to have a room where I can play records, read a book or practice yoga. Would you prefer to have a luxurious bathtub or a sumptuous shower? This is easy – a sumptuous shower all the way. I’m not one for relaxing in a bath and I start my day with a cold burst in the shower. This is all a bit new to me, but I really love the benefits of cold water. Would you rather live in the bustling city or in the country? Surrey is probably the furthest out I would go, for now. It has a lovely rural feel, but gives me access to London easily for meetings. Personally, as well as professionally, there is so much going on in London, I love to be able to dip in and out easily. If you were buying a property overseas, in what country would you buy a home? I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy some incredible holidays in Greece and feel at home there. It could be a contender for sure! The amazing food, beautiful islands and friendly people – what’s not to love? Would you rather have a bigger property or a better location? I’d aim for both; I find this a hard compromise… What is one thing you couldn’t live without at home? It has to be the robot vacuum cleaner! With two kids and a dog, I find this is the best solution to a clean house and a huge time saver. Just switch on and off it goes! What’s your favourite way to unwind at home after work? After a debrief of the highs and lows of a school day, and the chaos of dinner, bath and bedtime, I have some time to myself! I used to flop into a chair with a glass of wine but more recently I have taken

What room at home is your favourite? It’s got to be the kitchen! Not necessarily for my love of cooking, but because that’s where the fun happens. From early morning kitchen discos and dance shows directed and produced by my seven-year- old twin girls, to the hub of any good get-together. There is always music on and someone dancing around… What’s your favourite gadget or technology at home? I know some people aren’t huge fans but Alexa is used every day in our house. The girls ask questions for homework (and last year how many days until Santa arrives). I ask about the weather, cooking, add timers, add to shopping list. It really saves so much time. What colour do you think everyone should have in their home? I’m still stuck on Pantone’s 2020 colour of the year – Classic Blue. There’s something quite calming about it. It will most definitely feature in my new home. Which three people would you invite over for a housewarming party if you could have any guests? Alan Carr, Amanda Holden and Jennifer Coolidge. Lots of laughter, a touch of glamour, and dancing that carries on long after the music should probably stop. What’s your favourite memory from your childhood home? Playing in the garden was always my favourite. I loved being outdoors – whether it was playing football with my brothers, building camps, riding bikes, or throwing a ball for the dog. A bit of fresh air (and the occasional sunshine) always put a smile on everyone’s face. What is your favourite song? Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N' Roses Would you rather have a garden or a balcony? The luxury of a garden. While I am not confessing to being very green-fingered, I love the social aspect having a garden brings. A garden makes the summer, whether it's friends popping in for a glass of wine, impromptu barbecues or sitting watching the sun go down from my egg chair (my favourite garden item). Do you prefer modern homes or period properties? While I love the idea of a period property and the character of an older home, I’m an extremely busy person and want to spend my weekends enjoying my home, not maintaining it. So, I’d have to go for modern. 20 QUESTIONS Caroline Coskry

to strength training instead – let’s hope it lasts! What’s your favourite thing about your home?

It’s the people that make my home what it is. They’re what give it life and meaning, shaping the memories that stay long after everything else fades. In many ways, the rest is replaceable. Where did you buy your first home? In Sutton, Surrey. A two bedroom apartment with my first boyfriend, we loved it there. What advice would you give a first time buyer? Do your research and be brave. There is support out there in so many ways, even though it feels daunting don’t let it deter you. What are your views on Shared Ownership? Everyone’s circumstances are different and Shared Ownership is one of the routes to owning a home.The scheme gives many buyers security, along with that amazing first home feeling, that you never forget. For many, it’s not a compromise – it’s an opportunity. What are your views on the property market? Overall, the market feels balanced rather than overheated. Prices are not collapsing, but growth is modest. Buyers benefit from increased choice and slightly better affordability than a few years ago, though challenges remain – especially for first time buyers in expensive regions.

106 First Time Buyer April/May 2026

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