The Ultimate Guide to... GETTING ON THE LADDER, NEW HOMES AND SHARED OWNERSHIP
the Ultimate Guide to ... GETTING ON THE LADDER, NEW HOMES AND SHARED OWNERSHIP
August/ September 2024 £4.99
rsttimebuyermag.com
WIN! OVER £400 OF MORPHY RICHARDS KITCHEN APPLIANCES
SUSTAINABLE NEW HOMES – THE WAY FORWARD
FTB HOTSPOTS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS
STARS OF THE NORTH!
HOW TO KIT OUT YOUR FIRST HOME & MUCH, MUCH MORE
“When you buy take your time and follow your heart and not trends”
Olivia Bowen TV personality & in uencer
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome
EDITORIAL – 020 3488 7754
Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
The country has decided and we now have a new Government. It has been a very interesting couple of months, but Labour won the election and I am optimistic about the changes that they will bring to a tough housing market. Labour’s plans to address the housing crisis through an accelerated housebuilding programme will lead to better housing options for buyers, and first time buyers will be supported by the extended mortgage guarantee scheme. We will see how it all pans out
Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant and Head of Special Events KATIE WRIGHT
Editorial and Special Events Assistant SOPHIE MUNNERY
Creative Director RYAN BEAL
and I really hope that housing is high on the agenda as sadly it seems to have been overlooked in the past – I am positive and look forward to the future when we can get more and more first time buyers on to the property ladder. Voting for our FTB Readers’ Awards 2024 is in full swing. There is still plenty of time to cast your votes and you will find the shortlist on pages 87-107 so please take a moment to go to ftbawards.com – thank you. We are now, more than ever before, aware that we have to try to lead a sustainable lifestyle. This is very important when it comes to building new homes too, and they will also save you money in the long run. Do turn to pages 22-26 where we explain what is being done and highlight some excellent homes with green credentials. I 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.
Sub Editor KAY HILL
Social Media KATIE WRIGHT, SOPHIE MUNNERY Contributors CHRIS CLARK, NATALIE DANIELS, KAY HILL, STEVE HIRD, 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
firsttimebuyeronline
@firsttimebuyermag
SUBSCRIPTIONS 020 3488 7754
SWITCHBOARD 020 3488 7754
EDITOR’S PICKS…
If it is within your grasp, go for it as you will never regret it. David Moore, At home with, page 12 Carbon cutting can be both good for the environment and good for the pocket. Marcus Evans, The ultimate guide to heat pumps, page 120
Have fun with accessories and look around the high street for some budget- friendly pieces.
All advertising copy for October/November 2024 must be received before 23 August 2024. 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 2008-2024. 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.
We’ve already spent some time with a mortgage broker to arrange our Mortgage in Principle.
Pandora Taylor, Show Stopper! page 33
Even if you think you have a style in mind, view as many different homes as you can. Sam Jones, 20 Questions, page 138
Anna Walker, House Hunter, page 14
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 3
CONTENTS
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2024 / ISSUE 108 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK
What’s in…
42 Autumnal vibes? Six tips for seasonal styling Steve Hird, Director and Co- Founder of Edward Thomas Interiors shares six simple styling tips to swap spring/summer chic for autumn/winter comforts.
33 Show Stopper!
Award-winning interior designer Pandora Taylor has just unveiled the exciting new one bedroom show home at Peabody New Homes’ The Auria, in Notting Hill. Lynda Clark discovers where her inspiration comes from and she gives some excellent advice to rst time buyers on how to furnish your rst home.
HOMEPAGE
with Raymond Blanc for BBC2 and Masterchef the Professionals , he talks to Lynda Clark about his fascinating career, his rst and current homes and has some great advice for rst time buyers. 14 House Hunter We go on the hunt with Anna Walker and Marcus Bellingham who are on the look out for their rst home in and around Lewisham, south east London. 16 Developer’s doctor Olubukola Abiiba, the Head of Leasehold Sales Services at Newlon Housing Trust, answers your property question.
FEATURED
18 The View: Olivia Bowen Olivia Bowen is well-known for coming second on Love Island in 2016 with her now-husband, Alex Bowen. She is passionate about property and interiors and has over 750,000 followers on her @thebowenhome Instagram. Lynda Clark speak to Olivia again to nd out what she has been doing since we last spoke to her. 22 Why rst time buyers should consider buying more sustainably with a new build home We are all becoming more
looks at how we can create a zero carbon future.
8 FTB Loves... Enjoy the great outdoors with our choice of lovely glamping essentials to make the most of the summer days. 10 Living The soothing colour of the sea and sky – our round-up of all things blue and beautiful, a favourite for your home interiors. 12 At home with: David Moore David Moore is the founder and owner of Michelin-starred restaurant Pied à Terre in London’s Fitzrovia. A regular on TV and radio, including The Restauran t
28 Wish you were here Postcards from some beautiful Northern cities and towns highlight the best places to
eco-conscious, and buying a new build property, which is energy ef cient and includes smart technology, means cheaper bills. Natalie Daniels
consider buying your rst home. Laura Dean-Osgood goes on a whistlestop tour of the North and picks out some great developments too.
10
4 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
CONTENTS
OLIVIA BOWEN, PAGE 18
18 Olivia Bowen
IT CAN BE STRESSFUL BUT TRY TO ENJOY
IT AS THERE IS NO BETTER FEELING THAN OWNING YOUR HOME 87 First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards – time to vote!
REGULARS
ownership home. Sebastian Paulo, Director & Head of Staircasing at Owen Paulo, explains how staircasing works. 118 Finance Kay Hill offers hints and tips for keeping removal costs down. 120 Market Heat pumps have long been touted as the answer to the climate crisis, but is the roll-out programme going to plan? Ginetta Vedrickas looks at the current situation. 122 Agony Agent All your property questions answered by our panel of experts. 125 Buyer’s Guide Check out FTB’s Buyer’s Guide, which walks you through the property buying process. 130 Common questions from a rst time buyer about conveyancing Coralie Phelan, Partner and Head of Resales and Staircasing at Prince Evans Solicitors LLP, looks as the common questions asked by rst time buyers during the conveyancing process. 132 Directory Check which scheme is right for you, plus some useful contacts. 138 20 Questions We ask 20 quick- re questions to a property expert and in this issue Sam Jones, Client Account Manager at Edward Thomas Interiors, is in the spotlight.
58 & 74 Hotspot We look at Hastings and White City as places to live. 60 Read on... Now is the perfect time
to sit and relax in the sunshine with a good book. Lynda Clark talks
to author Alex Dahl, who has written six exciting novels and has a couple of TV series adapted from her books in the pipeline. 110 First home, rst meal Theo Michaels, chef, presenter and award-winning author, creates a delicious recipe for Cypriot Lamb Shanks in a Sticky Sauce, perfect for all the family. 111 Know how We all try to live a sustainable life, buying used, recycling household waste and using re lls where we can. Big companies are helping by offering schemes and initiatives allowing the customer an opportunity to save with a discount on their products. We discover what is on offer. 112 The lowdown on fees Stephen Ward, Director of Strategy and External Relations at the Council for Licensed Conveyancers, explains what fees are involved in the conveyancing process when buying your rst home. 114 Staircasing in a Shared Ownership Lease! Staircasing is the process of buying more shares in your shared
109 Competition
Win a selection of Morphy Richards kitchen appliances worth over £400
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 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@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk
WHAT NOT TO DO! I am a first time buyer and there’s lots of advice out there about what to do when looking to buy your first home. Do you have any advice for things not to do? Michela James
FTB says: There are most definitely things you should not do when looking to buy your first home. These include making hasty decisions and getting over excited, so you should always keep your options open until you are completely happy. Don’t look above your budget, as this will only lead to disappointment, and don’t end up not saving enough for hidden costs (and there can be quite a few of them). And finally, don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions and try not to go through the process alone, as every bit of support will make it all that little bit easier.
BAD CREDIT I recently applied for a mortgage but was rejected due to a poor credit rating. Do you have any advice on improving my score and how long it might take? I have fairly large credit card debt and have been making minimum payments to save for my deposit. I also had a couple of missed payments three or four years ago, which likely impacted my credit score. Fiona Gray FTB says: Firstly, obtain a copy of your full credit report to identify any issues. There are a number of ways of doing this online. To improve your credit score, reduce your debt utilisation – for example, £4,000 on a £5,000 limit uses 80% of your credit, which can really impact your score. Lowering this percentage, either by increasing your credit limit or paying the balance, can help. Also, ensure all bill payments are made on time. Setting up direct debits can prevent missed payments, which stay on your credit file for six years. If you find errors on your report, you can appeal to have them removed, but always seek professional financial advice before making significant changes. Specialist mortgage lenders work with clients who have imperfect credit scores, and a whole-of-market broker is best suited to find the right lender for your situation.
This issue’s star letter prize wins a copy of Cypriana , the latest recipe book from celebrity chef Theo Michaels, featuring over 80 vibrant recipes inspired by the traditional cooking of Greece and Cyprus. Presenting a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds, the delicious recipes are organised into chapters entitled Meze, Sea, Land, Fire and Sundowners, evoking a Greek way of life. Cypriana by Theo Michaels, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£22) Photography by Mowie Kay © Ryland Peters & Small
WHICH MORTGAGE BROKER? I’m a first time buyer seeking help with a mortgage. I’m waiting to see how mortgage rates and house prices change this year, but I’m eager to research my options. Should I speak to a local mortgage broker or find a specialist for first time buyers? How do I choose a broker? Adam Reddison FTB says: Finding a mortgage broker will help you secure the best rate, and we advise first time buyers to talk to an independent mortgage adviser before starting their search.You can get recommendations from family, an estate agent, or look online. Estate agents often refer
VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the rst time, go to rsttimebuyermag.com sites like Trustpilot to see what previous clients thought. For advice on savings, your bank can guide you on interest rates for savings accounts to determine the best place for your money. clients to in-branch advisers or trusted local companies.You can approach your bank to speak with its mortgage adviser, but keep in mind they only offer the bank’s products. It’s best to choose a whole-of-market broker, who can access rates from high street and specialist lenders. Check reviews on
Turn to page 110 for one of Theo’s delicious recipes for Cypriot Lamb Shanks in a Sticky Sauce!
DECISION IN PRINCIPLE After enquiring about a property I liked and putting an offer in, I was told that I need a Decision in Principle to go any further.What is this and how do I get one? Oliver Ford FTB says: Obtaining a Decision in Principle (DIP) shows all parties that you are a serious buyer. This is the first stage of the mortgage application process. At this point, you
will need to provide basic information to a lender, who gives a preliminary decision on your mortgage application, after conducting a credit check. Getting a DIP is straightforward; you just need to contact a reputable broker who can help you. After the DIP is secured, the broker will provide a certificate from the lender indicating its willingness to move forward with a full application.You should then be good to go.
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 7
FTB LOVES
Grab your tent because this summer it’s time for a staycation in the great outdoors! With the cost of holidays on the rise, the number of people deciding to holiday at home is growing year upon year, and spending time in the beautiful English countryside has a number of benefits, minus the backache! FTB has rounded up our favourite glamping essentials to make your staycation one to remember ALL THE GEAR… GREAT IDEA!
Klean Kanteen Rise mug , £27.95, Berry Useful, berryuseful.co.uk
Regatta Orla Kiely quilted jacket , £100, Regatta, regatta.com
Fantasia Montana star lantern , £16.95, Paper Starlights, paperstarlights.com
Portable folding telescopic stool , £26.99, Camping Boutique, campingboutique.co.uk
Picnic eece blanket , £8, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
Veeva classic indoor and outdoor bean bag chair , £52.99, Bean Bag Bazaar, beanbagbazaar.co.uk
Double layer ultra- light tent , £108.95, Camping Boutique, campingboutique.co.uk
8 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
FTB LOVES
Two-person portable hammock , £38.83, Camping Boutique, campingboutique.co.uk
Metal foldable beach chair , £7, B&Q, diy.com
LED hurricane lantern , £19.95, Rex London, rexlondon.com
Foldable camping table and cupboards , £67.85, Camping Boutique, campingboutique.co.uk
Bum bag , £14.99, TK Maxx, tkmaxx.com
Reversible paisley outdoor rug , £15, Talking Tables, talkingtables.co.uk
Portable suitcase BBQ , £39.95, Rex London, rexlondon.com
Boho Garden 12 ag bunting , £3.50, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
In atable lounger , £77.82, Camping Boutique, campingboutique.co.uk
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 9
Homepage LIVING
INTO THE DEEP Dive into the soothing world of blue interiors and discover how to bring the tranquillity of the sea into your home. Whether you’re looking to create a breezy beach house vibe or a sophisticated retreat, our guide to all things blue will inspire you to transform your living space into a serene seaside sanctuary
Outdoor/indoor washable rug , £40, George Home
Plant table , £14.99, Homesense
Crab plate , £3, Dunelm
Lobster cushion , £12, George Home
Deck chair , £29.99, Homesense
Outdoor tablecloth , £12.99, Homesense
Beach towel , £9.99, H&M Home
Cotton Candy votive candle , £5, George Home
Glass jug , £19.99, H&M Home
Candle holders , £16, Dunelm
Portable barbecue , £79.95, Annabel James
10 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
Homepage LIVING
Compact bedside table , £79, Dunelm
Lobster double oven glove , £10, Dunelm
Beach bag , £12.99, H&M Home
Plant pot , £22, Dunelm
Scallop cushion , £10, George Home
Woodwick oud and Italian bergamot candle , £10, Dunelm
Food cover , £10, B&M
Mug , £7, Dunelm
Green mushroom two light table lamp , £45, Dunelm
Pouffe , £49, Dunelm
Decorated glass set , £13, Homesense
CONTACTS » Annabel James annabeljames.co.uk » B&M bmstore.co.uk » Dunelm dunelm.com » George Home direct.asda.com » H&M Home hm.com » Homesense homesense.com » Wayfair wayfair.co.uk
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 11
Homepage LIVING
At home with: David Moore
David Moore is the founder and owner of Michelin-starred restaurant Pied à Terre, in London’s Fitzrovia. With a lifelong career in the hospitality industry, his 42 years of experience include the retention of a Michelin star for 31 years, which is the longest any restaurant has held it. He is regularly on TV and radio including The Restaurant with Raymond Blanc for BBC2 and Masterchef the Professionals . He talks to Lynda Clark about his fascinating career, his first and current home and has some great advice for first time buyers
Main Photo : © JodiHinds
FTB : Tell us about your first step on the property ladder DM: I worked at Raymond Blanc’s restaurant Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons for six years and I rented for three years and then decided to buy. It was in the late 80s and property prices had really taken off, so it seemed to make sense to buy somewhere. I bought a two bedroom apartment in Abingdon for £64,000. Then, in 1991 I opened my restaurant, Pied à Terre, in London and there was a big hike in interest rates and I was marooned with the apartment. I held on to it for five years and rented it out very successfully. Eventually I got engaged to Val, now my wife, and I decided to start afresh and paid off the negative equity and walked away. FTB : Tell us about your current home? DM: I got married in 1998 and we lived above the restaurant while we saved for a deposit. It was tough living there, but after about a year we had enough money, together with the help of family. The restaurant is in Fitzrovia, so we drew a circle round the area where it would only take 20 minutes to walk to work. We eventually found a one bedroom apartment, which was in the right area, but it was too small. The estate agent told us that a new show home had just opened and asked if we would like to take a look. We knew it would be outside of our budget and Val decided not to go in. But when I saw it I loved it, as it had beautiful large windows, a conservatory on the roof terrace, and two good-sized bedrooms. I knew we had to buy it, and decided to go and have a chat with the
“THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A SENSE OF HOME AND GETTING YOUR NAME ON THE TITLE DEEDS”
12 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
Homepage LIVING
bank manager. I didn’t tell Val about my plan as I wasn’t sure if it would all work out. At that time, a good friend, restaurateur Conrad Gallagher, came over from Ireland for a visit. I told him about the situation and he said, “I have opened four restaurants this year which I couldn’t afford, but just do it!” When it came to getting a mortgage it was different times back then and I had some telephone calls with the bank manager and after a few questions he agreed to help. We got married in May 1998 and on return from our honeymoon in June 1998 we moved into our new apartment in Bloomsbury, an 18-minute walk to the restaurant. We are in a block of eight apartments, all with the same footprint over each floor – our neighbours above us were in the music business. It was quite normal to have celebrities walking in and out, but they could be very noisy, especially late at night. I spoke with our neighbour asking to have first refusal if they ever sold. So, in 2004 we bought the place upstairs and then decided to knock both apartments into one! If we sold and moved to a bigger place we would have a major Stamp Duty implication. It was a huge building job and we had to move out for the summer while it was being done. Luckily,Val and my two daughters always spent the summer at our mobile home in Ireland, so they were away. It was a very difficult time, the build was to be finished by the first week of September but they eventually handed over on Christmas Eve, but we now have a four bedroom home with a roof terrace, which we love, but actually we are now thinking we should embark on another project! When Covid ended, we visited Margate and have had a love affair with the town since, having bought an apartment with a beautiful sea view. Sadly, we had to let the mobile home in Ireland go. FTB : Tell us about your career? DM: I always wanted to be a chef and I got a job when I was 17 in a hotel in Blackpool cooking breakfast, lunch and dinner. It made me realise that it just wasn’t for me, so I decided to go to college and study Hotel Catering. During my work experience I got a job for 26 weeks at The Box Tree and I really caught the bug and loved it! I then saw an ad in The Caterer magazine for an Assistant Head Waiter at Le Manoir and decided to apply for it. I was still living in Blackpool and a friend came with me to the interview and shared the petrol costs. I decided that we should have lunch there first, which was pretty expensive at £17.50, especially when I was only earning £25 a week. Looking back I was so cheeky as I called the head waiter over and said I would like to invite the person who was interviewing me to join me at my table. I
“WHEN I SAW IT I LOVED IT, AS IT HAD BEAUTIFUL LARGE WINDOWS, A CONSERVATORY ON THE ROOF TERRACE AND TWO GOOD-SIZED BEDROOMS”
did get a job there but not the one which I applied for as I wasn’t qualified enough, but as a Chef de Rang (station waiter) and the promise I would get promoted in a year. I had no idea what the salary was until I opened my pay packet and found there was enough for me to live on, which was a relief. FTB : Tell us about your restaurant Pied à Terre? DM: I left Le Manoir in November 1991 and opened my restaurant in December 1991. It was a plan I had been working on for three years. I had to find investors and had lots of contacts so I wrote letters to them every three months to see if they were still interested in investing. Raymond Blanc was very helpful and joined the Board of Directors, and also brought in some investors too. One of them was a lawyer who was slightly older and he contacted me to say he had found an Indian restaurant in Charlotte Street that might make the perfect premises. I went along and saw masses of potential and a great location. Still there 34 years later, we are London’s longest- running Michelin-starred restaurant, which is quite something. FTB : You are also involved in many other different projects, tell us about them? DM: I am a trustee of Cockpit Studios, which is an award-winning social enterprise that supports 160 independent craft makers
and businesses. I am an ambassador/ speaker for “Speakers for Schools”, visiting schools to talk about hospitality and to paint a picture of the possibilities in our industry. I’m collaborating with New Horizon Youth Centre, a charity that supports young people who are homeless or unsafe in London, supporting and offering work experience opportunities were we can. This last winter saw me helping my daughter cook at a women’s refuge, while she was studying for A-levels at St Cuthbert’s in Earls Court. We served up dinner to 40 or 50 homeless women every Monday evening for the coldest five months. My daughter is passionate about this and we enjoy our time together there. FTB : What are your plans for the future? DM: We have a new Head Chef, Phil Kearsey, who is amazing, and our aim is to get our second Michelin star back. FTB : What advice do you have for first time buyers? DM: Just do it! There is nothing like a sense of home and getting your name on the title deeds. If it is within your grasp, go for it as you will never regret it.
pied-a-terre.co.uk @david_pied
@piedaterrerestaurant speakersforschools.org
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 13
Homepage FIRST RUNG
The HOUSE HUNTER
What we found…
THE LEAFY LOCALE
THE WILDCARD
Excalibur Catford, south east London
The Quarry Erith, south east London
This month FTB goes on the hunt with Anna Walker and Marcus Bellingham who are looking for a one bedroom apartment in or around the area of Lewisham, south east London
This popular eco-friendly development is breathing life into the Erith Quarry site. Homes range from one and two bedroom apartments to three bedroom terraced houses. The houses are arranged over three storeys, with an open-plan kitchen and dining area downstairs, and three bedrooms and a living room on the top two oors. There are fantastic local facilities, including gyms, shops and parks. From Erith station, a 10-minute walk, trains to London Bridge take under 40 minutes. The River Thames is around a 15-minute stroll away.
Set in a leafy, residential area in blossoming Catford, these new one and two bedroom homes enjoy an envied location. There are green spaces and shops within a 10-minute walk, while Catford town centre and a choice of four stations are around 20 minutes on foot or a short bike ride away. Residents have a fantastic area to explore, including popular Ladywell Fields and Hither Green. The contemporary apartments feature open-plan living spaces, private balconies, utility room and built-in wardrobe. Parking and cycle storage are also available.
PROFILE
Names Anna Walker, 37, Marcus Bellingham, 38 Occupations Team administrator, policy adviser Maximum budget £200,000 Requirements A one bedroom apartment in or close to Lewisham, with some outside space, a community feel, good access to public transport links and shopping facilities
What they wanted…
Marcus and I are both from south London originally and – apart from us both moving away to attend our respective universities – neither of us has moved very far. We love living in London and have seen our local areas such as Lewisham, Peckham and Brockley really ourish in the last few years. There’s such a good, young vibe in the area and we have family fairly close by in both south east London and in Kent, which is really easy to get to by train or car. I work at Lewisham hospital, while Marcus works hybrid at his of ces in Victoria. We’ve been renting for years but really would love to nally get our own place. We’ve seen lots of our friends buy ats and houses in the area and we feel like now it’s our turn. We’ve been saving as much as is possible – which is tough when rents are so high – and we nally have a deposit of £30,000.”
lqhomes.com
lqhomes.com
*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £316,000
*Shared ownership available
What they thought…
This area takes us closer to some of Marcus’ relatives in Dartford, so that would be a positive. It’s a little further out than Lewisham, but the train connections are impressive. What we do like is the proximity to the Thames. We both love spending time on river walks, so being so close would be a dream come true and I know my friends would love to come and explore the area. The properties are really stylish – we adore the sleek kitchens and bathrooms, and it’s great that there are on-site sports facilities, perfect for outdoor workouts.”
What a lovely, green area these homes are in. It’s so pretty around this way, and it’s nice that this development is set slightly away from the town centre, as it means you’re really going to be able to escape city life. It’s still very well connected, too, with so many public transport options, which is great. I’d probably choose to cycle to work from here, as it would only take about 10 minutes. We really do like Catford and have friends in the immediate area, so living around here would certainly be plenty of fun.”
14 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
Homepage FIRST RUNG
First choice!
THE LAID-BACK LIFESTYLE
THE NEW COMMUNITY
Southmere Thamesmead, south east London
Kidbrooke Square Kidbrooke, south east London
These new homes are positioned opposite Kidbrooke Village – an area that has bene ted from regeneration and features brand new shops, local amenities and an award-winning park. The studio, one and two bedroom homes here are sleek and contemporary, with thoughtfully designed living spaces – which lead to private outside spaces – along with stylish, neutral decor. Blackheath and world-famous Greenwich are comfortably close, while Kidbrooke railway station is seconds from the front door, for trains to London Bridge in 15 minutes.
Set alongside a lake with a pretty outlook, residents at Southmere enjoy a taste of laid-back living. The development is already very popular, and a new phase of shared ownership properties is in the works. The site will eventually be home to more than 500 properties, including one, two and three bedroom apartments. With a range of on-site amenities, everything you could need is on the doorstep. Inside, homes have an open-plan living area opening to a balcony or terrace. The Elizabeth Line at nearby Abbey Wood offers great connections.
*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £415,000
THE NEXT STEP
“We are so excited about the idea of living at Square Roots, it really does have the right mix of everything for us. We’ve already spent some time with a mortgage broker to arrange our Mortgage in Principle, as well as registering with Square Roots, so we’re all ready to go once we get the go ahead!”
nhghomes.com
peabodynewhomes.co.uk
*Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £367,500
*Shared ownership available
There’s not a single thing we don’t like about this development: it ticks every one of our property- searching boxes. The location is excellent for both of us – I’ll be able to walk to work from here, while Marcus’ commute will be so easy, as Lewisham station is only a seven-minute walk away. The apartments are so stylish and we’d certainly be proud homeowners. We’re really keen on the shared outside areas and imagine they provide a great chance to enjoy the outdoors and get to know the new neighbours. This is also such a great spot for getting around to some of our favourite areas such as New Cross and Peckham, and one of the highlights for us is that the train into London Victoria only takes 23 minutes, so it’s so easy to get into town for work and nights out!”
We hadn’t thought about Kidbrooke, but we’d de nitely consider it. It’s close to some of the places we love to spend time at, including Greenwich Park and Blackheath. The Kent countryside is on the doorstep, too, so it would be easy to visit family as well as getting into town. Getting to work from the nearby station would be simple for both of us. The properties are lovely. We really like the kitchens, with great open-plan living areas, which are super sleek! Cator Park is on the doorstep and would be perfect for enjoying the sun.”
This truly is a stunning location – and the on-site facilities are a real draw for us, too. There are new shops and restaurants as well as a brand new gym, which is pretty exciting. The homes here are stylish and well designed, with plenty of natural light – ideal for when we are working from home. The development is well positioned in terms of getting to work and visiting family, and the whole area near Abbey Wood is being regenerated, so we’re really looking forward to seeing what happens here in the future.”
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First Time Buyer August/September 2024
ADVICE
Olubukola Abiiba is the Head of Leasehold Sales Services at Newlon Housing Trust. A specialist residential conveyancer and chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), Olu has accumulated an impressive 16 years’ experience in leasehold sales transactions. She has a strong passion for delivering quality services for existing homeowners and meeting the aspirations of first time buyers through following best practice, regulatory and statutory requirements, combined with a commitment for prompt communication and a helpful approach Q We are a couple in our early 30s planning to start a family.We have
Olubukola Abiiba, Head of Leasehold Sales Services, Newlon Housing Trust
space for their furniture and understand their current outgoings such as costs for gas, electric and council tax. Finally, my advice would be to let your solicitors know of any issues that may delay your move so they can act quickly to notify all parties to ensure the process runs smoothly. I would encourage regular communication between you and the vendor so you are fully aware of the progress of their corresponding purchase. It also allows both parties to work towards a common goal of agreeing a mutual completion date and helps you plan moving into your new home. For more information about our shared ownership homes, please visit newlonliving.co.uk
to ensure the process runs smoothly, however, it is important to be aware that collating and exchanging information between solicitors can take some time. In your case, where your vendor also has a related purchase, it can have a significant impact on how long it will take to complete the process, as the vendor may require funds from the sale of their property, with solicitors arranging to complete transactions simultaneously. Generally, the length of time between the MoS and completion can typically take anywhere from 12 to 16 weeks. The great thing about choosing to buy a resale shared ownership property is that it gives you the opportunity to speak to the vendor and ask questions.You also have the chance to see how they have used the living
found a lovely two bedroom shared ownership resale apartment in our local area and have been offered the property. Our vendor has a related purchase and as first time buyers we don’t know what this means for us. How long can we expect the process to take? A The process can vary and is dependent on a number of factors. Once you have confirmed acceptance of the offer you will be required to instruct solicitors to act on your behalf and will be issued a Memorandum of Sale (MoS).This MoS confirms the agreement of sale between you and the vendor; it summarises the details of your purchase and effectively kick-starts the conveyancing process.This is the legal process that transfers the ownership of a property from one person to another and sets out when the vendor begins to plan their move to another property, allowing enough time for you to give notice to terminate your tenancy. You should at this stage work together with your mortgage adviser to arrange a mortgage valuation. Simultaneously, your solicitor will be reviewing draft documents and carrying out property searches.These searches are necessary as they may highlight issues you need to be aware of before you take ownership of your new home. An important part of the process is for the housing association to reply to enquiries raised by your solicitor.There is no set number of enquiries that can be raised, they are usually questions focused on the property itself, such as service charge, buildings insurance, fire safety, and restrictions on title, to ensure that a buyer has a full picture of the property they intend to purchase. Mortgage lenders can also have varying requirements and your solicitor will be obliged to obtain satisfactory responses to satisfy the lender before mortgage funds are released, as it needs assurance that the home it is lending on can be considered a good risk. At Newlon, our leasehold sales team works
In the heart of Oakwood, a charming north London suburb just over 30 minutes from the buzz of central London, lies Cassia, a contemporary new build development by Newlon Living. Now offering a collection of one and two bedroom apartments available through the shared ownership scheme, this is an exceptional opportunity for rst time buyers to secure their rst home in a perfect location.
Seamlessly blending with the established houses, Cassia has been crafted to offer community-focused homes in a peaceful location. Architecturally inspired
by the Georgian era but reimagined for 21st-century living, each apartment boasts its own outdoor space, high-speci cation xtures and ttings, and up-to-the-minute environmental credentials.
Embrace the Cassia Lifestyle Every home has been designed to be energy ef cient, meeting modern standards while providing comfort and peace of mind. You’ll nd an open-plan living area and your own outdoor space, complemented by a stylish tted kitchen with integrated appliances, a contemporary bathroom suite, and quality carpets in each bedroom. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in the area’s natural beauty, and experience the perfect mix of city living and suburban calm.
One bedroom apartment, monthly outgoings from £1,275 pcm: £105,000 for a 30% share. Full market value: £350,000. Two bedroom apartment, monthly outgoings from £1,555 pcm: £127,500 for a 30% share. Full market value: £425,000.
To register your interest in Cassia or for more information please visit cassia.london
*Based on a 30% share with a full market value of £350,000
16 First Time Buyer June/July 2018
August/September 2024
THE VIEW
"I HOPE IT INSPIRES PEOPLE AS I REALLY ENJOY GIVING UPDATES ON THE LATEST DECORATIONS AND WHAT WE ARE CURRENTLY DOING"
20 First Time Buyer December 2021/January 2022
18 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
THE VIEW
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS!
Olivia Bowen is well-known for coming second on Love Island in 2016 with her now-husband Alex Bowen.The pair were the first couple from the show to get married. She is passionate about property and interiors and has over 750,000 followers on Instagram, @thebowenhome, where she updates and gives inspiration on her latest renovation projects. Lynda Clark caught up with Olivia again to find out what she has been doing since we last spoke to her
Photos: James Rudland
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 19
THE VIEW
W hen I last chatted to Olivia, she had recently bought what they thought was their dream home in the countryside. She said, “I absolutely loved the house, which was built around 20 years ago, and it was in the area where I grew up. I always looked at the house when we drove by and could imagine us living there. Eventually it went on the market and our offer was accepted, so it felt like it was really meant to be." But Olivia and Alex had a baby, Abel, who is now nearly two years old, and they discovered that the house didn’t quite work as well as they had imagined. “We spent four years there renovating it, and it was a beautiful home. But it was on a main road with no proper paths and there was no feel of a community at all. When you have a child you need things around you, like shops, cafes, playgroups and a park, and it wasn’t near many of my friends. It was also quite dangerous with no paths and a noisy road.” So, they made the huge decision to sell it and move on, and decided to buy a self- build new home on a lovely development. She explains, ”You basically buy a plot of land that comes with planning permission from the council, but you have the option to change it if you wish. We bought in our own builders and kitchen specialists as we wanted to make it special and unique to us. While all the work has been carried out we have moved into a 600-year-old rented house, which is totally different to anything we have lived in before. It has worked well except for Alex, who is well over six foot and struggling with all the low beams! I’m not that tall and even I can just about stand up in the bathroom! "The new house is in a town we have always wanted to live in, and already there is a strong sense of community. My friends are close by too, and there are some great restaurants and pubs. We are hoping to move next month and we are very excited. The house is a little smaller than the previous one, but it has a lovely open- plan sitting room, four bedrooms all with an en suite, and the main bedroom also has a dressing room, and there is a family bathroom and a cloakroom downstairs.The garden is just the right size and I know Abel will love being outside and enjoying the fresh air.” When it comes to the interiors, Olivia has
that I ended up moving in with a friend in Chelmsford and six months later I applied to go on Love Island . I needed a total change and I had to get out of the job I was doing." While she was on Love Island she met Alex, who later was to become her husband, and they came second in the competition. Three days later, after the end of Love Island , Alex moved into Olivia’s flat. They then rented a house together and bought their first home in 2017, which they lived in for two years until they eventually bought what they thought was their dream home in the countryside. In the meantime, Alex proposed to Olivia, and they got married in 2018 and then had little Abel. She is passionate about riding and has a horse called Dolly. She said, “When I was little I went horse riding all the time but it became too expensive for my mum, so I worked at the stables to earn my rides, but with school and everything it became too much. So, a few years ago I decided it was time to start riding again and I got Dolly. I ride her as much as I can. We recently got a little pony for Abel and the other children at the yard, who is called Sausage. Abel loves riding and says ‘go, go, go' and 'trot, trot'. He has really good balance even though his little legs barely stretch round Sausage!” Olivia has some excellent advice for first time buyers and said, “When you buy a house take your time and follow your heart and not trends. A home is really an extension of your personality, and you should really go for it! Don’t be afraid of colour and maybe try one wall in a strong colour and if you don’t like it then simply paint over it. Live within your means and don’t stretch yourself as you still have to live and pay the bills. I think it’s a good idea to knuckle down on the numbers to make sure you can actually afford the home. It can be stressful, but try to enjoy it as there is no better feeling than owning your home.” With over 750,000 followers on Instagram, @thebowenhome, Olivia keeps her followers up to date with what they are planning and doing with their exciting new home. “I hope it inspires people, as I really enjoy giving updates on the latest decorations and what we are currently doing.” Apart from leading a very hectic life, Olivia is also in partnership with Glade and loves its range of candles and air fresheners and is enjoying all her various projects. Finally, I ask her if this is going to be their forever home? “Oh no, ultimately I would like to move to an older property in the countryside and retire my horses on my own land, but that won’t be happening until Abel is much older. But it’s always good to dream!”
been having lots of fun. “I have gone with my heart and not my head and it’s colourful, playful and very different to the rather beige look we had before. I have just finished Abel’s room, which has a sea theme with a gorgeous underwater mural on one wall. It took a couple of days to complete and is really calming. Abel is obsessed with sharks, so I know he will adore it. I have really enjoyed planning the house this time round and I have taken my time and not rushed into anything.” As well as designing her dream house, Olivia has also been busy with another side hustle, “We started our property investment venture a few years ago now as we wanted to build a solid foundation for our future. We currently own two properties that we now rent out, but we loved the process of renovating them so much that we are planning to expand further. The aim is to buy two more properties to flip this year. This is where my passion for interiors really comes through. I love seeing the process and transforming something into a beautiful new place for someone else to enjoy.” Olivia is very enthusiastic about everything she does and her life story is fascinating. She said, "I have a brother and we had a wonderful childhood. My mum and dad were together until I was 11 and they then split up but it was totally amicable.We went on super holidays, and I was very close to my brother growing up. I did my A-levels and was planning to go to university to study fashion.” Olivia got an unconditional offer, but she was then offered a job as a visual designer for American Apparel, which was her dream come true, but sadly the job didn’t quite work out the way she had planned and she decided to leave and get another job. She said, “I found another job in fashion but I really didn’t get along with the managers and I really hated being there. I watched the first series of Love Island with my ex- boyfriend, who I lived with, but it turned out he was a awful person who eventually cheated on me and we split up.” After Olivia and her ex-boyfriend broke up, she couldn’t go back to live with her mum so she had to rent her first flat on her own. “It was very, very hard and I had no money, so I lived on chicken and rice from a can! It was quite an experience though, and because I was young and had so much freedom it really made me grow up! After
"DON’T BE AFRAID OF COLOUR AND MAYBE TRY ONE WALL IN A STRONG COLOUR AND IF YOU DON’T LIKE IT THEN SIMPLY PAINT OVER IT"
Follow Olivia on @oliviadbowen and @thebowenhome
20 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
THE VIEW
"WE SPENT FOUR YEARS THERE RENOVATING IT, AND IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL HOME. BUT IT WAS ON A MAIN ROAD WITH NO PROPER PATHS AND THERE WAS NO FEEL OF A COMMUNITY AT ALL"
First Time Buyer August/September 2024 21
GREEN HOMES
Are you an eco-conscious buyer? Then why not invest in a new build property? New homes are incredibly energy efficient and are fitted with a whole host of smart technologies.This means not only cheaper bills, but energy-efficient properties also open doors for Green mortgage deals. Not forgetting, buyers of new homes are playing a vital role in creating a zero carbon future for the UK, says Natalie Daniels, Sustainability PR Director at Building Relations WHY FIRST TIME BUYERS SHOULD CONSIDER BUYING MORE SUSTAINABLY WITH A NEW BUILD HOME
SMART DESIGN The more energy efficient your home, the lower the bills are going to be. That’s because new homes are built to retain heat – they are well insulated and also designed to optimise airflow and ventilation, rather than damp, drafty homes, making them healthy places to live and work. The hidden details lie in the fabric. As a first time buyer, the "fabric first" approach of a new property means you benefit from airtight cavities within the walls to keep as much of the heat within the building, and this does its job seamlessly without future operation or maintenance. As well as energy-efficient fabric, fittings such as appliances, including dishwashers, washing machines and fridge-freezers, will also be new, energy-efficient models. Lighting is a consideration too, and new homes will often boast
Director at Ethical Compass, comments, “There are several benefits for first time buyers, not only will it lower bills and running costs of a home, but it will also provide buyers with a healthier home, with less risk of damp and draught, making it safer, more resilient and longer lasting. Also, those who are climate conscious and aware of buying behaviours will also be doing the right thing in terms of lower carbon emissions and footprint.” James Pritchett, Communications Manager at Greencore Homes, believes in making sustainable living accessible, especially for first time buyers. He comments, “Investing in a sustainable home means not only contributing to a healthier planet but also benefiting from the economic advantages
Living in a more energy-efficient new build home doesn't necessarily mean spending more. In fact, new build homes often boast far lower running costs than many existing homes. That’s because they need to meet high energy-efficiency standards, and as a result they're both eco-friendly and cheap to heat and run. New builds often have heat pumps, smart water meters, double (or triple) glazing, wall and roof insulation and photovoltaic (PV) panels. They are also fitted with the latest energy-efficient appliances and heating. So, if you’re looking to take the first step on to the property ladder, it’s worth knowing the benefits that buying a new build home can bring. According to the Home Builders Federation, around 84% of new builds are rated A-B for energy efficiency, while just 3% of existing stock reached the same standard in the year to September 2021.¹ GREEN MONEY For first time buyers, investing in a more energy-efficient property could help unlock green financing solutions. Green mortgages can offer attractive interest rates, cashback or free energy-efficiency reports. Many mainstream mortgage lenders including Barclays, NatWest, and Virgin Money are now offering Green mortgages as part of new funding models for homes that have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of A or B.
of lower energy consumption." With great energy efficiencies and even greater environmental
low-energy LED lights throughout.
credentials, for eco-conscious buyers it’s time to take the leap
Some also come with electric car charging points as standard.
into new build and help protect our planet. hbf.co.uk/documents/ 11628/33271_HBF_ Report_ nal.pdf
Speaking about the benefits to first time buyers, Ben Holden, Managing
22 First Time Buyer August/September 2024
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