First Time Buyer December 2024/January 2025

AFFORDABLE HOMES

EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT FROM YOUR FIRST HOME

Can you imagine living near to central London but still surrounded by wonderful open green spaces, parkland and waterways? Sounds too good to be true! Lynda Clark explores West Acre Square in the heart of west London by Southern Housing New Homes, offered through shared ownership, and is more than impressed good to be true! by

particularly liked the full height mirror and heated towel ladder-style radiator. I thought the soft grey tiles in the kitchen and bathroom were an excellent choice – I have a similar colour palette in my home and I think it works so well as you can add pops of other colours to make a real statement. Windows are triple glazed and there is a video/phone entry system which is perfect for security. All homes come with private outdoor space, so I could just imagine having my morning coffee or a sundowner at the end of the day enjoying the view. Southall is so vibrant and I love exploring the markets that open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. It’s magical to wander around and then discover some of the amazing dining options, which include a range of cuisines including Punjabi, South Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan. It’s hard to decide which one to choose, so you can take your pick of traditional dishes or try something new – you can literally savour the flavours from the world. Try Brilliant Restaurant just an 18-minute walk away. This family restaurant reflects the traditions of cooking passed down by generations. Or, check out The Terrace, Southall’s newest go-to social scene space where you can enjoy contemporary Indian food cooked with locally sourced

I always love visiting Southall with its diverse community, bold colours, the wonderful aroma from authentic restaurants and the thriving community spirit that creates an atmosphere like no other. From London Paddington station it took just 18 minutes on the Elizabeth Line to reach Southall and a short walk to the lovely development, West Acre Square, offering studio, one and two bedroom apartments through shared ownership from Southern Housing. Situated in Berkeley’s The Green Quarter, it comprises 50% green open space, parkland and waterways, which considering it’s so near to central London is something else! The apartments are stunning – spacious and light-filled. The open-plan kitchen/living/dining room is a generous size and there is plenty of room for a table and chairs. The kitchen comes with integrated appliances, which will save any first time buyer the expense of buying white goods, which is a bonus. The oak- effect flooring that extends into the hallway looks superb and the wool mix carpets in the bedrooms are cosy. There is also a large built-in wardrobe in the main bedroom and the bathrooms are totally “hotel-style” and very luxurious; the perfect place to relax and pamper yourself at the end of a long day. I

products. For a meal with a special view then just a 10-minute drive away is Lock & Quay, a tranquil waterfront restaurant and grill which also serves Sunday roasts and is the perfect spot to spend time with friends and family. For a change of scene go on the Elizabeth Line or hop on a bus to nearby Ealing Broadway with its high street retailers, a cinema, bowling alley and a plethora of places to eat and drink For families there are many primary and secondary schools close by, with many having an Ofsted rating of Good or Outstanding. Travel is a breeze with so many options available. By train from Southall station you can take the Elizabeth Line and be in Slough in 15 minutes, Tottenham Court Road in 23 minutes, Canary Wharf in 40 minutes and Ealing Broadway in only six minutes. There are many different bus routes too, so the choice of getting around is yours! West Acre Square certainly ticks all the boxes for first time buyers. The apartments are really top class and the location is simply stunning. I often wish I was a first timer again as I would be seriously considering these shared ownership homes as my first choice! Prices at West Acre Square for a studio, one or two bedroom apartment start from £77,500 for a 25% share with a full market value of £310,000

PARKSIDE YARDS

Parkside Yards is part of the Green Quarter, which is one the biggest regeneration projects in West London. It is very exciting and is transforming the area into a sustainable and nature-rich place where the community can thrive. The Green Quarter will provide leisure facilities, retail, two new parks with a footbridge to connect the surrounding area, plus cycle paths. Residents will have so many activities they can enjoy, including a children’s play area with

a giant jumping pillow and a ceramics studio where you can learn new crafts. Residents can also sign up to join the state-of-the art Padel club, which is one of the fastest-growing sports. Fancy a bite or a coffee? Then you can meet your new neighbours or invite friends and family to join you at the new cafe or pizzeria – enjoy!

parksideyards.co.uk

shnewhomes.co.uk/westacresq

48 First Time Buyer December 2024/January 2025

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