the Ultimate Guide to ... GETTING ON THE LADDER, NEW HOMES AND SHARED OWNERSHIP
August/ September 2025 £4.99
rsttimebuyermag.com
WIN! A FRENCHIC PAINT BUNDLE WORTH £250
LOWDOWN ON STAIRCASING
SUMMER LIVING
THE BANK OF MUM AND DAD
HOTSPOTS • PECKHAM • HARROW
“Research, research, research – as if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail”
Scarlette & Stuart Douglas TV presenters
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome
EDITORIAL – 020 3488 7754
Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
I hope you have been enjoying the heatwave even though it is hard to work and sleep when it’s so hot! This is the perfect time of year for first time buyers to take the plunge and step on to the ladder – there is nothing quite like owning your own home and getting the keys for the first time!
Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant and Head of Special Events KATIE WRIGHT
More and more people are turning to the bank of Mum and Dad, which is certainly thriving – do turn to pages 24-29 where we look at the statistics to see how things have changed and why where you buy will have a big impact on what help you might need – it makes for interesting reading! Voting for our FTB Readers’ Awards 2025 is in full swing. There is still plenty of time to cast your votes and you will find the shortlist on pages 63-91 so please do take a moment to go to ftbawards.com – thank you. If you are planning on camping, glamping or just having a picnic in the garden, beach or local park then you are sure to enjoy our fun selection of outdoor accessories on pages 8-9 and 10-11. Out Hotspot features, where we highlight a different town, are always so fascinating and this issue we shine the spotlight on Peckham in south London on pages 46-47 and Harrow on pages 54-55. I do hope you enjoy this bumper issue, which is packed with information, and if you are struggling to understand how the homebuying process works then I am sure you will find the answers to your questions inside.
Editorial and Special Events Assistant SOPHIE MUNNERY
Creative Director RYAN BEAL
Sub Editor KAY HILL
Social Media KATIE WRIGHT, SOPHIE MUNNERY
Contributors CHRIS CLARK, DEBBIE CLARK, MEGAN DOHERTY, KAY HILL, LILY MANSELL, SOPHIE MUNNERY, LAURA DEAN- OSGOOD, SEBASTIAN PAULO, CORALIE PHELAN, GINETTA VEDRICKAS, STEPHEN WARD, 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…
If you can’t afford a place in your
As a chef I need a particular style of kitchen which has masses of space and an island in the middle. This place is perfect Ben Harris, At home with, page 14
All advertising copy for October/November 2025 must be received before 10 September 2025. 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 2008-2025. 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.
ideal location explore other areas nearby
Buying your rst home is a huge nancial commitment, but one that should pay off long term Richard Taylor, Agony Agent, pages 130-131
I love the idea of having plenty of space to have an of ce room as well as a guest room Krupa Rhajan, House Hunter, page 16 James MacPhail, 20 Questions, page 146
I now have somewhere of my own for me and my pets, and an extra room too Deividas Brokas, Real Life, page 110
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 3
CONTENTS
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2025 / ISSUE 114 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK
What’s in…
111 The best FTB properties
110 Deividas Brokas not only helped to build his own home but an entire apartment block at Barratt Homes’ Kingsbrook development in Aylesbury. Deividas began work at the Kingsbrook development in 2018 with Prestigious Carpentry Ltd, where he is now Contracts Manager and liked it so much that he ended up buying a two bedroom apartment there.
HOMEPAGE 8 FTB Loves...
Account Manager, shares her styling tips and current trends. 14 At home with: Ben Harris Ben has been a chef since he was 18. He has worked at top international cookery schools and as a chef at functions in prestigious hotels. He ran his own street food business, Beppinos Pasta, and is a presenter and an on-stage host at cooking shows. He talks to Lynda Clark about his fascinating career, his regrets about not buying his own home and shares what food he loves to eat and cook. 16 House Hunter We go on the hunt with Krupa Rhajan who is looking for a new home within commuting distance of Luton. 18 Developer’s doctor Jane Williams, Head of Sales at Southern Housing, answers your property question.
FEATURED
If you are planning a picnic or just fancy eating al fresco, our round-up of the best accessories for outdoor living will certainly inspire! 10 Living Bring the spirit of the summer festivals home with our top picks for having fun and making memories in your own garden. 12 The Design Studio: Kitchen/diners Our resident interior design expert, Edward Thomas Interiors, focuses on the modern kitchen/diner. Megan Doherty, Senior Client
20 The View: Scarlette and Stuart Douglas Siblings Scarlette and Stuart Douglas have always had a passion for property. The third series of Worst House on the Street for Channel 4 has just finished and they have an exciting new series on Channel 4 this summer, called Can’t Sell, Must Sell . They talk to Lynda Clark about their interesting careers, their first homes and have some very good advice for first time buyers.
24 The Bank of Mum and Dad: Open for Business The Bank of Mum and Dad is as popular as ever, but why are today’s first timer buyers so reliant on the older generation for financial support in buying a home? Debbie Clark delves into the statistics and looks at how the trends have changed over the years. She also discovers that where you choose to buy will have a huge impact on the level of support that you are likely to need.
10
4 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
CONTENTS
THE VIEW, PAGE 20
20 Scarlette & Stuart Douglas
FIND YOUR CEILING PRICE AND GIVE YOURSELF ROOM FOR MANOEUVRE, AS OFTEN THE COSTS CAN RUN AWAY WITH YOU 54 Hotspot Harrow We take a look at Harrow as a place to consider when you start your property search.
REGULARS
46 Hotspot Peckham We look at thriving Peckham as a place to live.
and what to expect when buying your first home. 126 Finance Kay Hill discusses what inflation is all about and how best to manage the rise in costs. 128 Market Ginetta Vedrickas reports on whether the Government’s latest legislation is really a “win, win” for housing and nature. 130 Agony Agent All your property questions answered by our panel of experts. 133 Buyer’s Guide Check out FTB’s Buyer’s Guide, which walks you through the property process. 138 The legal steps to staircasing Coralie Phelan, Partner and Head of Resales and Staircasing at Prince Evans Solicitors LLP, explains the legal steps to staircasing. 140 Directory Check which scheme is right for you, plus some useful contacts. 146 20 Questions We ask 20 quick-fire questions to a leading property expert and in this issue, James MacPhail, Head of Sales & Marketing at Settle, is in the spotlight.
118 First home, first meal This recipe for Summer Greens Spaghetti was created by Theo Michaels, chef, presenter and award-winning author. It’s simple to make and perfect to serve during the summer. 120 What is the difference between leasehold and freehold? Stephen Ward, Director of Strategy and External Relations at the Council for Licensed Conveyancers, explains the difference between buying a leasehold and freehold home. 124 Your first home: Understanding the legal journey with confidence Holmes & Hill Solicitors explains what conveyancing is all about
117 Competition
Win a Frenchic paint bundle worth £250
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 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
WHAT ARE COVENANTS I have been told about covenants when buying my first home? What are they and are they important? Arthur Haylock
HIRING A TRADESPERSON Having just bought my first home, I am keen to do some small renovations to it. Do
you have any tips on hiring a reputable tradesperson to carry out the work I need? Freya Finchley
FTB says: A covenant, when buying a house, is a legal obligation or restriction written into the property’s title deeds that stays with the land rather than the owner. There are two main types – restrictive covenants, which limit how the property can be used (such as prohibiting extensions, running a business, or keeping certain animals), and positive covenants, which require the homeowner to do something, like maintain a shared driveway or contribute to communal upkeep. These covenants are important because breaching them can lead to legal consequences or demands for compensation. During the conveyancing process, your solicitor will check for any existing covenants and advise you accordingly.
FTB says: Hiring a tradesperson doesn’t have to be risky if you follow a few key steps to protect yourself. First, always ask for proof of public liability and professional indemnity insurance.This safeguards you against potential costs from accidents, damage, or incomplete work. Make sure to get detailed, written quotes or estimates before any work begins; these should clearly outline the scope, timeline and costs involved, and it’s wise to compare at least three to ensure transparency and fairness. Avoid anyone who insists on full payment upfront.
You have the opportunity to win a trip to B&M! This issue’s star letter wins a £25 gift card to the nation’s favourite discount retailer. Shop the gorgeous new garden ranges and enjoy summer outdoors! Whether you’re looking
While a deposit may be reasonable, reputable professionals usually offer a structured payment plan linked to project milestones, with the final payment due upon satisfactory completion. Be cautious of tradespeople who use high-pressure tactics or try to rush your decisions, especially around materials or pricing. A trustworthy professional will allow you time to review your options and ask questions. Finally, always check that they hold valid, verifiable certifications or qualifications, which confirm their competence and compliance with industry standards. Using trusted directories or accredited certification bodies is one of the most effective ways to find a reliable and skilled tradesperson.
for bright and colourful decor to bring life to your patio such as the Paradiso range, or to browse a range of beautiful flowers and plants at unbeatable prices in its garden centres, you’ll find everything you need to create your dream garden sanctuary! bmstores.co.uk (Not available online only in store)
THINGS TO AVOID I am starting on my journey to buy my first home. Are there any particular things I should avoid in the run-up to getting a mortgage that might make it harder to be accepted for one? Daniel Ford FTB says:When preparing for a mortgage, it’s essential to avoid making major financial changes that could negatively affect your credit profile or debt-to-income ratio. Don’t take on new debt, such as financing a car, applying for personal loans, or opening new credit cards, as these actions can lower your credit score and raise
OFF-PLAN Having looked around a few new build developments I am deciding whether or not it is a good idea to buy off-plan. Are there any benefits in doing this? Ryan Ghwalia FTB says: Buying a house off- plan, before it’s built or while it’s still under construction, offers several advantages. Often, off- plan properties are priced more competitively than completed homes, providing potential savings and the opportunity for capital growth if property values increase during the build. Buyers may also be able to customise elements such as
concerns with lenders. Avoid making large, unexplained deposits or withdrawals from your bank accounts. Lenders will scrutinise your financial activity to ensure everything is stable and verifiable. It’s also important not to change jobs or reduce your income during this time, since employment stability plays a significant role in the approval process. Additionally, never miss any bill payments as just one late payment can hurt your credit and jeopardise your chances of getting approved. Staying financially consistent, transparent and cautious is key in the lead-up to securing a mortgage.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the first time, go to firsttimebuyermag.com better energy efficiency and lower running costs, and they usually come with a 10-year structural warranty, giving added peace of mind. fixtures, finishes and layouts, creating a more personalised living space. Developers frequently offer incentives, including help with legal fees, Stamp Duty contributions, or upgraded appliances. Off-plan homes are typically built to high modern standards, offering
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 7
FTB LOVES
BITES, BLANKETS & BACK GARDENS Whether you’re plating up indoors, pitching a tent under the stars, or heading to the park for a picnic, FTB has rounded up our favourite must-haves for stylish summer dining. From chic picnic sets to compact cookware and elegant al fresco tableware, these picks are perfect for first time buyers on the move
Picnic chair , £15, Habitat, habitat.co.uk
Picnic bag with dining set and bottle cooler bag , £16, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
Backpacking cookset with storage bag , £45, Regatta, regatta.com
PS... Sun SPF 50 lip balm , £1.50, Primark, primark.com
Herringbone picnic blanket , £14, Marks & Spencer, marksandspencer.com
Solar powered glass lantern , £3.50, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
Picnic set , £6, B&M, bmstores.co.uk Pack of 2 side plates , £6, Primark, primark.com
AQUAPHOR City Cool lter water bottle , £20, John Lewis, johnlewis.com
Set of 4 picnic glasses , £8, Marks & Spencer, marksandspencer.com
Woven straw hat , £5, Primark, primark.com
8 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
FTB LOVES
PERFECT PICNIC
Spinach and Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Frittata Bites
Frittata bites with sweet potato, spinach and cottage cheese – tasty, healthy, and full of goodness.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp olive oil 1 red onion, nely sliced 500g sweet potato, peeled and chopped into 2cm chunks 1 large clove garlic, crushed 8 large eggs 150g low-fat cottage cheese 150g baby spinach 15g basil leaves, roughly torn 4 sun-dried tomatoes, sliced METHOD 1
Cook the veg: Preheat oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6). In an ovenproof pan, fry onion, then add sweet potato and cook until soft and caramelised. Stir in garlic, spinach and basil. 2 Add the eggs: Beat eggs with cottage cheese, season, then pour into the pan. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook on the hob for 5 minutes. 3 Bake to nish: Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 mins until golden and set. Slice to serve.
For more recipe ideas visit realfood.tesco.com
Thermulate insulated tumbler 0.6L , £22, Regatta, regatta.com
Picnic hamper with bottle holders , £40, Marks & Spencer, marksandspencer.com
Ice cone moulds , Pack of 4, £3, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
Lemon picnic bag , £8.50, Online Home Shop, onlinehomeshop.com
Camping cutlery set , £30, Regatta, regatta.com
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 9
Homepage LIVING
THE GARDEN GETS GROOVY Couldn’t make it to Glasto? Who says you need a field full of strangers to feel the festival magic? This summer, we’re taking the party outside with a garden makeover that’s full of free-spirited charm. Think boho textures, bold pops of colour, twinkling lights and laid-back lounging. We’ve rounded up the best ways to turn your outdoor space into a sunshine-soaked sanctuary that’s made for music, mates and memories – wellies optional, good times guaranteed!
Solar powered Paradiso bulb string lights , £8, B&M
Boho bundle , £53, Paper Starlights
Daisy coasters , £9.99, HomeSense
Plant pot , £4.50, Primark
Cotton bean bag chair , £100.99, Great Bean Bags
Gold pineapple ice bucket , £40, Talking Tables
Embossed glass citronella candle , £3 each, B&M
Balloon solar lantern , £19.99, Dobbies Garden Centres
LED bar sign , £18, Matalan
Faros rattan lantern , £29.99, Dobbies Garden Centres
Bulb solar lantern , £19.99, Dobbies Garden Centres
10 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
Homepage LIVING
Sunbeam parasol , £25, Habitat
Floral cushioned roll mat , £59.99, HomeSense
Paisley fabric bunting , £25, Talking Tables
Fabric framed sign , £45, Talking Tables
Paradiso ceramic plant pots – 3 pack , £10, B&M
Paradiso oor cushion , £20, B&M
ConnectGo® Connectable curtain lights , £24.99; ConnectPro® festoon lights , £54.99; Outdoor battery Alta candle lantern , £39.99, Festive Lights
Harlequin print Teka chair , £50, Habitat
CONTACTS » B&M bmstores.co.uk » Dobbies Garden Centres dobbies.com » Festive Lights festive-lights.com » Great Bean Bags greatbeanbags.com » Habitat habitat.co.uk » HomeSense homesense.com » Matalan matalan.co.uk » Paper Starlights paperstarlights.com » Primark primark.com » Talking Tables talkingtables.co.uk
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 11
INTERIORS
THE DESIGN STUDIO: KITCHEN DINERS
Our design studio series continues and this time, our resident interior design expert Edward Thomas Interiors is focusing on the undisputed heart of the home, the modern kitchen/diner. Megan Doherty, Senior Client Account Manager, shares styling tips and current trends...
arrangements but can also be achieved with paint blocking or feature panelling. In either case, remember to think about wayfinding and ensuring there is a natural path through the room, or to any connecting spaces such as a utility, garden or balcony. Once you’ve established an overall style and purpose, it’s time to layer in the detail. Some of my favourite trends right now include wall or ceiling storage for glassware and that “at home” bar look; chalk paint or open shelving to write lists and create a cafe culture vibe; or vintage finds such as old baking equipment, cake stands or storage jars that immediately add a rustic appearance. We’re also seeing tiles used more frequently recently, whether that’s a chequerboard splashback or a classic metro tile fitted vertically for a contemporary twist.
traditional choices and pair particularly well with woods and natural stone worksurfaces. If you’d rather express colour more subtly, then experiment with adding accent colours. These can be soft furnishings such as window dressings or seat covers; wallcoverings like feature paints or wallpapers; or different types of lighting. Remember that kitchens are high task areas so require well-lit, cool white lighting for food preparation but perhaps a warmer, yellowy hue for dining and entertaining. Next, think about any additional uses the room needs to accommodate. Modern kitchens are typically multi- purpose so are often doubling as a dining room, family room, home office, even a child’s playroom. The best way to differentiate these is by “zoning” them. This might be with clever furniture
Open-plan living remains the most popular layout for new homes and apartments, creating shared spaces to bring couples, friends and families together. Nowhere is this more evident than the kitchen/diner. So where do you start with styling for this primary social space? Begin with the cabinetry. This will set the overall style for the room. Shaker cabinetry gives a classic farmhouse vibe; glossy and handleless offers a sleek modernism, while open, larder-style cabinets strike a balance between rustic and industrial. In terms of colours, green is this season’s must-have. Gorgeous mid-tone greens, so sage, olive and khaki, are really in demand, as are other muted or soft pastel shades such as butter yellow or blush pink. These offer a playful alternative to the more
12 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
INTERIORS
“IN TERMS OF COLOURS, GREEN IS THIS SEASON’S MUST-HAVE. GORGEOUS MID-TONE GREENS, SO SAGE, OLIVE AND KHAKI, ARE REALLY IN DEMAND”
Texture is important too. Countertops are drawing inspiration from nature and as well as including materials like marble, stone and quartz, popular patterns for these surfaces now include lava, salt mines and sand dunes. Similarly, seating can be used to add texture, both visual and tactile. Dining chairs in a luxurious button-back velvet or upholstered in a chunky wool can look amazing opposite a natural wooden bench. This “mix and match” seating is a real space saver too! One final trend is about organisation. Kitchens require maximum space and minimum clutter so we’re seeing the inclusion of secret storage like carousel and pull-out pantry spaces, floating shelves, integrated waste and recycling bins, door spice racks and two-tier drawers.
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 13
Homepage LIVING
Ben has been a chef since he was 18, developing a passion for food when he was a child. He has worked at some of the top international cookery schools and as a chef at functions in many prestigious hotels, including The Ritz and GeorgeV in Paris,The Dorchester and The Savoy. He ran his own street-food business for three years, Beppinos Pasta, and is also a presenter and an on-stage host at many cooking shows. He talks to Lynda Clark about his interesting and varied career, his regrets about not buying his own home and shares what food he loves to eat and cook At home with: Ben Harris
too long in one place.You need to gain lots of knowledge and experience along the way as essentially you are a food technician/ engineer. Anyone can produce a decent plate of food but to have something that is extra special you need to call an expert. For example if something goes wrong with your computer you need to ask somebody who specialises in tech to fix it. Chefs can always fix a situation and know how to cope when things don’t go to plan. FTB: Tell us a bit more about your street- food business? BH: It was called Beppinos Pasta. Obviously as my mum is Italian, pasta has always been a speciality. It was on the South Bank in London and was the first ever street food stand. I cooked fresh pasta on the spot and
How did you start as a chef? BH: My mum is Italian and is a chef so there has always been a great deal of love in the family around food. I had a difficult youth, but eventually sorted myself out and I tried to get into radio presenting, but I was always cheffing to support my radio career. I always advise students that the key to being successful is to work hard but not stay
FTB: Tell us about where you are currently living?
BH: I am currently renting in north London, which is a lovely area and perfect for families as it’s extremely safe. I have a very good landlord and I’ve been here about four years. As a chef I need a particular style of kitchen which has masses of space and an island in the middle.This place is perfect and I have a spare bedroom so can invite family over too. I have spent a lot of time in Spain over the years and I really regret not buying a home there.There was a lovely house there which was on the market for 60,000 euros and before Brexit it was easy to live there, but now the rules have changed and you can’t live in Spain for more than 90 days at a time within a 180-day period without a visa.The property I was interested in is now worth £140,000 so it is very frustrating.
“I WORKED FOR A YEAR AT JAMIE OLIVER’S FIRST RESTAURANT, FIFTEEN, WHICH WAS INCREDIBLY CHAOTIC AS EVERYONE IN THE KITCHEN WAS UNDER 30, BUT WE HAD A GREAT TIME”
14 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
Homepage LIVING
it was very successful. If Instagram had been as big then as it is now I think my life would be completely different but I take every opportunity that comes my way. I love presenting and have absolutely no fear of talking in front of people – I think turning up with a good attitude will get you a long way. FTB: You have worked on so many different things – what are your personal highlights? BH: I worked for a year at Jamie Oliver’s first restaurant, Fifteen, which was incredibly chaotic as everyone in the kitchen was under 30, but we had a great time. I love working on stage at cooking shows and was at The Ideal Home for many years. I co-presented a six part TV series for Anglia Television called Tasting History and I’ve worked with the likes of Ken Hom, Marco Pierre White, Stanley Tucci, Tom Kerridge and Raymond Blanc. I also present at a lot of festivals. One thing I am proud of is I ran a mini roadshow for Love Food Hate Waste where I took a kitchen trailer around the country and demonstrated how to minimise food waste – it’s one of my passions not to waste good food! FTB: You do a lot of private catering – can you tell us about that? BH: I work all over the country and in France and Spain. I have been working on an exciting event in Spain with a good friend. We have created a totally different dining experience called The Opera of the Senses.We come up with the menu and the wines and make it into a total sensory experience. We write it rather like a story with the focus on the dishes which are like one’s emotions. It’s an extraordinary experience for anyone taking part. My friend has created five songs for the violin which are played when each dish is served. We have three different wines and two cocktails. We also add in some surprises along the way like changing the lights, a blindfold experience and various essences that are sprayed into the room, which makes this a meal you will never forget. FTB: You also work in schools, can you explain what you do? BH: Everything I do means a lot to me but this was very special. I spent a week at a primary school, working class by class, teaching the students how to make fresh pasta with a tomato sauce, while focusing on building confidence for the less academic pupils. The message is that everyone is worthwhile and should never
“ONCE YOU HAVE BOUGHT A PLACE OF YOUR OWN, NEVER GO BACK TO RENTING AND GIVE IT UP”
give up on themselves so I hope I made a difference. I would like to do more of this but funding is very difficult. FTB: What is your favourite recipe and what do you like to eat? BH: I am a big sushi fan but nothing beats an old fashioned pie, which is so underrated.You serve a pie upside down so the crispy base is on the bottom to soak up all that fantastic gravy. I love cooking omelettes and actually it was the first thing
I learnt to cook as a child. But, my favourite is a six meat ragout, with all hand-cut meat which is slow cooked with a little tomato and finished with chicken livers, cream and parmesan shavings – it’s my signature dish! FTB: What advice do you have for first time buyers? BH: Once you have bought a place of your own, never go back to renting and give it up. If you are in a position to buy then do it as soon as you can, as you will not regret it.
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 15
Homepage FIRST RUNG
The HOUSE HUNTER
What we found…
THE BEST OF BOTH
THE COMMUTER’S DREAM
Barratt Homes at Linmere, Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire
Weavers Gate Codicote, Hertfordshire
This month FTB goes on the hunt with Krupa Rhajan who is looking for a new home with at least two bedrooms within commuting distance of Luton
The Hertfordshire town of Codicote is home to this development which bene ts from a semi-rural location while being well-connected to the local town and commuting links. Shared Ownership homes range from two bedroom apartments to two, three and four bedroom family houses all with a high spec. Codicote’s amenities lie within walking distance, while the larger towns of Stevenage, Welwyn, St Albans and Hitchin are easy to reach by car or train. Direct and speedy trains run from nearby Welwyn or Luton to London King’s Cross in just over an hour.
Surrounded by 90 acres of open space, yet with speedy links to Luton and London, this new development offers a well- rounded lifestyle for residents. The properties range from one and two bedroom apartments to three, four and ve bedroom houses, created in a range of styles. The two bedroom apartments feature open-plan living areas that lead to a private balcony, en suite from the main bedroom, bright family bathroom and plenty of extra hallway storage. Endless options for walking, cycling and country pursuits lie right on the doorstep.
PROFILE
Name Krupa Rhajan, 34 Occupation Recruitment consultant Maximum budget £300,000
Requirements An apartment or house with space for home working and for guests to stay. Commuting distance to Luton and good road and rail links are a must
What she wanted…
I have been living with my parents for far too long – it’s high time I bought a place of my own! My parents have been amazing – they understand how hard it is nowadays to save up, and they haven’t charged me much rent so I’ve managed to build up a very decent deposit to buy something. I would like a property with at least two bedrooms; I work from home a lot and my cousin also comes over from Canada at least twice a year for a few weeks and I’d love to have the space to host her at my own place. I do need to visit my of ce in Luton, and I also drive to client sites around Bedford and Luton fairly regularly, so good road links would be a real positive. I grew up in quite a rural area and I really love being outdoors and exploring. I do love big cities and towns, but I want to live somewhere quiet that gives me the options to visit London and other busy places really easily.”
thrivehomes.org.uk
barratthomes.co.uk
*Shared ownership available
What she thought…
Oh I do love the style of these houses, they’re very classy indeed. Codicote is picturesque, too, and very much the epitome of a quaint English town. Getting to Luton and London is pretty simple from here – getting to the of ce in Luton would only be a 20-minute drive, while rail links are direct and pretty quick. It’s a good location for getting to places like Knebworth, Welwyn and Stevenage too – so there’d always be plenty of options for days and evenings out.”
This is a lovely part of Bedford, I grew up close by and it feels very comfortable to me. This new development looks really lovely – the buildings are stylish and modern, which really appeals. The interiors are bright and fresh, I would absolutely love putting my style stamp on a new home like this. Location wise, it’s great for work, friends and family. It’s also good for shopping and there are some really nice cafes, too – so lots of places to meet friends for a catch up.”
16 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
Homepage FIRST RUNG
First choice!
THE COMMUNITY CHOICE
THE CONVENIENCE KING
DWH at Great Denham Park Bedford, Bedfordshire
Comet Rise Hat eld, Hertfordshire
This new collection of stylish apartments is located in popular Hat eld, with an excellent choice of town centre shops and facilities within a short stroll. The 86 one and two bedroom properties, which are available through Shared Ownership, have been designed to enhance the experience of daily living. The spacious, open- plan living spaces are light and bright, while well-sized balconies provide perfect outdoor space for al fresco dining. Trains run to London St Pancras in 35 minutes, while the beautiful green spaces of Hertfordshire are nearby.
The nal phase of this landmark development is proving very popular with rst time buyers. The established community here makes the most of the open spaces, amenities and excellent connectivity to Bedford, Luton and London. Homes range from one bedroom coach houses to three and four bedroom semis and detached houses. These modern homes are built with ef cient insulation, photovoltaic panels and have access to EV charging points. Bedford is a 10-minute drive for big-town vibes and facilities, while trains reach London in 40 minutes.
THE NEXT STEP
“I love the thought of living here and having the chance to own my own house. My mortgage adviser has calculated my affordability and I have registered with the housing association to take my application to the next step. Exciting times!”
settlesales.co.u k
dwh.co.uk
*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £255,000
I know Houghton Regis pretty well and really like the town. These houses are in a semi-rural location, which is just what I’m after, really. I’ll be a short drive from my parents, which they’ll love. I’m sure we’ll see each other all the time, so I know I won’t feel isolated. There’s some good shopping and facilities in town, while Luton is only a 15-minute drive. My best friends are in Luton and Dunstable, so it’s perfect for getting to each other. I would be able to afford a house here with Shared Ownership, which is really exciting. I love the idea of having plenty of space to have an of ce room as well as guest room for friends and family.”
This is a great location: Hat eld is a lovely town with loads going on, and these apartments are very close to everything you’d need on a day-to- day basis. There’s shops, gym and all sorts right on the doorstep. I really like the fresh look of the interiors, and I’m keen on that central courtyard and the balconies facing into that – it would create a cool community vibe. There’s loads of parking, communal roof terraces and local facilities – a great option that’s close to the action!”
I have been driving past this new development for a while and have been intrigued by it. Growing up nearby, I have always loved Bedford – I think it has so much to offer. I love the riverside, and there are some cool cafes and a great arts scene, way more than there used to be. Getting to work in Luton would be simple. I really like the look of the development. It’s a whole new community with a lot to offer, and plenty of like-minded rst time buyers in the vicinity.”
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 17
ADVICE
Jane Williams is the Head of Sales at Southern Housing. Jane has led initiatives to expand access to affordable homeownership, particularly through Shared Ownership schemes and is passionate about guiding first time buyers through the homebuying process, ensuring they are well informed and supported at every step Q I’ve been looking at buying in London, having lived in flat
Jane Williams, Head of Sales, Southern Housing
summer and electric barbecue area. Southern Housing’s Southwark Living developments present achievable homeownership options through Shared Ownership and open market sale. Glengall Rise, overlooking Burgess Park, is a collection of one to three bedroom homes available through Shared Ownership and open market sale.With a preserved original kiln chimney, a private courtyard, roof gardens and an on-site Brompton Bike hire station, it’s a stone’s throw from Burgess Park’s cycling routes, with Elephant & Castle tube station and Queens Road Peckham station nearby with links to the London Overground and National Rail.
Argo House in South Bermondsey has contemporary one, two, and three bedroom apartments with balconies, communal gardens and cycle hire membership, close to South Bermondsey station, and within easy reach of Borough and Canary Wharf. Varcoe Corner offers one and two bedroom apartments through Shared Ownership, in a lively neighbourhood with links to Canada Water, Surrey Quays and central London. Each scheme offers something unique for those looking to buy a home in Southwark.
shares in parts of Southwark, including Peckham and Burgess Park. However, renting here is getting more and more expensive, in fact, I’ve read that it’s one of the top 10 most expensive places to rent in the capital. I’m keen to stay in the area if I can. I’m still doing my research, and I wondered if you could share some information on the property market in the area and how I might get on the ladder? A Southwark is rapidly becoming one of London’s most sought-after boroughs for first time buyers, and for good reason. With its vibrant cultural scene, excellent transport links, abundant green spaces and high-quality new homes, it offers an exceptional London lifestyle. At Southern Housing, Southwark is a key area for us.We’re delivering nearly 400 new homes through Shared Ownership and open market sale over the next two to three years under our Southwark Living programme. There are plenty of reasons to love this borough. Getting around is easy.There’s an impressive network of cycle routes and buses direct to central London, making car-free living straightforward. One of the area’s major transport hubs is Elephant & Castle station, served by both Bakerloo and Northern Lines, and National Rail via Thameslink and Southeastern. When it comes to leisure, Southwark has plenty to enjoy. Borough Market is a foodie’s paradise of artisan produce and street food. There’s a buzzing dining and nightlife scene along Southwark’s Bermondsey Street and in riverside spots around Bankside. Iconic cultural venues – like Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and the Southbank Centre – are all within easy reach.The borough is also home to popular Peckham, which offers a vibrant cultural scene. Grade II listed Southwark Park has 63 acres of open meadows and grassland, a lake and sports facilities, while Southwark’s Burgess Park is a perfect spot for a dog walk, observing wildlife, water play jets in the
For more information, visit shnewhomes. co.uk/Southwark-living
Glengall Rise is a collection of Shared Ownership and open market sale homes overlooking Southwark’s Burgess Park and Surrey Linear Canal Park. Capturing the spirit of the capital, virtually every major city landmark – from The Shard to St Paul’s Cathedral – can be viewed from communal roof terraces and from the upper-level east- facing apartments.
Designed with convenient living in mind, homes come with open-plan layouts and a range of fully integrated appliances. Energy-ef cient under oor heating throughout makes living spaces and bedrooms radiator-free. Cyclists are prioritised at Glengall Rise, which sits on Cycleway 35. There’s a Brompton Bike hire station on the ground oor, exclusively for residents’ use, and for added convenience, the development also features intelligent parcel lockers. Located off the Old Kent Road, Glengall Rise is within easy reach of the hustle and bustle of trendy Peckham and well-connected Elephant and Castle, both just a bus or cycle ride away. Local facilities include a growing number of cafes and local businesses, as well as an Asda and a Tesco superstore, both within walking distance. For lovers of the great outdoors, opposite the development is Glengall Wharf garden, run by volunteers, that includes a community sauna and plunge pool. Burgess Park offers a plethora of facilities including football pitches and a community sports centre.
Prices will be released soon. For further information, visit shnewhomes.co.uk/glengall-rise
18 First Time Buyer June/July 2018
August/September 2025
THE VIEW
"GO TO A MORTGAGE BROKER WHO WILL FIND THE BEST DEALS AROUND FOR YOU FROM ALL THE LENDERS AND GET A REALLY GOOD CONVEYANCER SO THE PROCESS IS SMOOTH, WHICH WILL SPEED THINGS UP"
20 First Time Buyer December 2021/January 2022
20 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
THE VIEW
FAMILY VALUES!
Siblings Scarlette and Stuart Douglas have always had a passion for property and their interior design and renovation business has proved to be highly successful for over 15 years. The third series of Worst House on the Street for Channel 4 has just finished and they have an exciting new series coming to Channel 4 this summer, called Can’t Sell Must Sell . They talk to Lynda Clark about their fascinating careers, their first homes and have some very good advice for first time buyers
Photos: Mike Prior Hair and makeup: Lisa Joseph @lisaloothe_mua @creativeartistshairandmakeup
I t is very hard to keep pace with Scarlette and Stuart. They are not just busy, they are seriously in demand and how they fit everything in is beyond me! Scarlette and Stuart were brought up in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire. Scarlette was always passionate about performing and Stuart and their other brother, Andrew, were both professional footballers. Andrew played for Arsenal and Stuart for Luton Town. As the boys were avid sports enthusiasts, Scarlette wanted to be like them and played basketball, hockey and football for Arsenal girls, briefly. She said, “I wanted to play rugby too but that wasn’t allowed.” She went to Laine Theatre Arts in Epsom, Surrey, when she was only 16 and stayed with a host family for the first year. “It was a very tough course and we worked a 12-hour day and they were very, very strict about everything.” Her first job was assistant choreographer and dance captain for the pilot show of Thriller Live and she then travelled to Switzerland for eight months playing the role of Tina Turner in We Will Rock You . She was in great demand and appeared in many different musicals, made a fitness DVD called Street Fit and won a competition for MTV in conjunction with Freedom to become a presenter for a week, a win that was not only a great experience,
profit when I sold it and by then I had the property bug and decided to buy another place in Enfield, which was a first floor apartment. I completely renovated that and created a lovely space.” Since then, Scarlette has bought and renovated many different properties and said, “I get such a buzz from each property I buy.” Stuart became a professional football player at the age of 17 and even though he earned a lot of money, he was always keen to save. “It’s my passion to save and I really thank my parents for encouraging us to get a good education and not squander our money on fast cars, but instead to save for the future.” He also has a passion for property and bought his first home at the age of 21. “It was in a converted hat factory in St Albans and was very quirky. I redesigned it and did some renovations; put in a new kitchen, bathroom and flooring and of course completely redecorated it. I really loved it but when I changed football clubs I decided to sell it as I needed to buy somewhere nearer the new club, a decision I have always regretted. “Apart from really liking the place, I truly believe that there is no better return than bricks and mortar and so my interest in property grew and grew. I made a good profit on it and it proved to be the catalyst for me to buy and develop in the locations
but also landed her a presenting agent. She was one of the presenters for A Place in the Sun for nearly seven years, which she describes as a dream job, and has been all over the world finding homes for people who want to buy abroad. She was a regular reporter for The One Show on BBC as well as fronting her own prime time Channel 4 show, Holiday Secrets: Is Last Minute Best? Having always been interested in property and interiors, Stuart asked her what she was planning for the future as she had no pension. Stuart was a footballer at the time and had developed a few properties over the years and so suggested she invest some money that her mum had given her, along with her own savings, to buy a place of her own. “My first property was a one bedroom ground floor Victorian conversion in Barnet. With Stuart’s help, we eventually turned it into a two bedroom apartment but it was a big learning curve. “We had builders who were not up to scratch and didn’t complete works as planned in the schedule. As a result, we hired an independent builder to work on his own as his standard of finish was high, however, he physically moved into the property which was really unacceptable. In the end, I finished it off and I lived there for about eight months. “We re-did the garden and I made a good
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 21
THE VIEW
"I WOULD ADVISE ANYONE TO LOOK AT WHICH ENERGY COMPANY THEY USE AS MANY OF THEM OFFER SOME GREAT INCENTIVES AND OFFER GOOD ADVICE ON HOW TO SAVE MONEY"
22 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
THE VIEW
of the football clubs I played for. With the help of Scarlette, I have developed and sold numerous properties which has obviously helped me transition into the world of broadcasting. I was nominated for Best Debut Presenter at the New Voice Awards 2022 which was very special.” They made their first television appearance together in a special edition of Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer’s Love It or List It as part of Channel 4’s Black to Front project. But as it was for many people, lockdown proved to be a difficult time for them. During the third lockdown, Scarlette was sat at home one cold, rainy January afternoon and saw a casting call for a new property TV show looking for contributors wanting to flip properties. As this was her domain, she called her agent, Alex, to find out exactly what the show was about and if they needed a presenter. He arranged a Zoom call and a screen test was secured for not only Scarlette but also for Stuart. A few weeks later they were offered the job co-presenting Flipping Fast alongside George Clarke. The show followed six teams across the UK who think they have what it takes to make the big time as property entrepreneurs, offering them a life-changing chance to start their own property business. Each are given a £100,000 investment to kick-start the business, competing against each other to see who can make a profit from property in just 12 months. The competitors get advice and support from George, Scarlette and Stuart and at the end, the most successful property flipper gets a cash prize of the £100,000 investment given to them at the beginning, plus their profit. Scarlette said, “We loved this series as we get the opportunity to offer straight-talking advice to budding property entrepreneurs. We didn’t always agree on the methods, but when it comes to achieving the best results, we’re on the same page.” They then fronted a Channel 4 series, Worst House on the Street which has just finished its third series and you can watch all the shows on catch-up. They shared tips and tricks to help thrifty homeowners pull off renovations far in excess of their budgets or expectations. It followed the duo using their expertise to help families transform run-down houses into dream homes without it costing a fortune! At the end of the project they revealed how much their innovation and cost-cutting had increased the value of the property by. They said, “Over many years, we have honed the skill of redeveloping properties while extracting the most value from the finances available. As brother and sister, our candid and honest relationship has helped us refine our process to achieve the best results. Together we have redesigned
"OVER MANY YEARS, WE HAVE HONED THE SKILL OF REDEVELOPING PROPERTIES WHILE EXTRACTING THE MOST VALUE FROM THE FINANCES AVAILABLE"
British College of Interior Design. It was a one-year online course and it was hard to go back to studying, but I am delighted that I managed to do it." Scarlette has also been working with Smart GB and Hive promoting energy efficiency, smart meters, boilers and insulation and said, “Everyone is so aware of the cost of energy these days, so as part of our mission to educate people it has been really interesting. I would advise anyone to look at which energy company they use as many of them offer some great incentives and offer good advice on how to save money. ” With so much property knowledge they have some excellent advice for first time buyers. “Research, research, research; as if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Look at the areas you are interested in and decide what is important to you. If you are a family does it have good schools nearby? Or if you need to commute does it have good transport links? If you decide to renovate a property then work backwards. Find your ceiling price and give yourself room for manoeuvre, as often the costs can run away with you, and then calculate exactly what you can afford. "It is easy to put your own stamp on a place to make it your home when you work out what to do with the interior space and decorations. It is important to get the right team around you when you buy – go to a mortgage broker who will find the best deals around for you from all the lenders and get a really good conveyancer so the process is smooth, which will speed things up. Also, ensure you have a good relationship with the estate agent as they will then let you know early when the type of properties you are looking for are coming on to the market. If you are planning to renovate, get a team of good tradespeople who share your vision of what you want." Scarlette and Stuart are both very talented and the future is looking bright indeed. We are delighted that they will be hosting our First Time Buyers Readers’ Awards later this year. The Awards are very exciting and everyone in the world of housing looks forward to them – so I think a fun time will be had by all! If you’d like to know more about Scarlette and Stuart please check out their Instagram account @scarandstu or @missscardoug
and renovated numerous properties, transforming them to become desirable and profitable homes. “We are now very excited that our brand new series, Can’t Sell Must Sell , will be on Channel 4. It’s a really great idea where people with homes which have been on the market for a long time with little or no viewings show their home to the general public who then say what they think of them. It can be quite brutal and very critical but that’s where we come in and help and advise the owners on what changes to make in order that they do sell. We both take on a house and we were delighted that after our renovations they were sold! We are all about educating and being entertaining and this new show is so fresh and there hasn’t been anything like this done before, so it’s really exciting.” They were also recently on the Great Celebrity Bake Off: Stand up to Cancer , where they showed off their baking skills and Stuart came second. “Neither of us are great bakers. Scarlette likes to eat cake not bake and my wife is a really good cook and baker but it was great fun.” The list of shows they have appeared on is impressive, with Deal or No Deal , The 1% Club and Pointless Celebrities to name a few. This very busy duo certainly don’t let the grass grow under their feet. Stuart is in the process of buying a garden flat which he will renovate and turn it from a one bedroom to a two bedroom. “It will be the perfect home for a first time buyer or a downsizer. It is in Bournemouth, near to where I live as I am very particular about the location as I can be stubborn and like to control the process. I can project manage the renovation and I am always on the lookout for potential properties to work on.” Scarlette has been spending a great deal of time in America. She now has a green card and is studying to get her realtor licence in Florida so she can buy a property and renovate it too. “It’s very exciting and I have already found the perfect place which I would like to buy. I am also an Executive Producer for HTV and have a couple of shows in development at the moment. There might also be a possibility that our UK shows will be shown in America and if they are successful that will open so many doors for us both. Last year I also gained my interior design diploma from the
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 23
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