Is it possible to buy a home in the south of England as a single person? Read Ester’s experience and learn how Shared ownership can help you to finally ditch your flatmates and find your dream home.
Home Sweet Autonomy: The Freedom of Living Alone in Your Own Space
Tired of dealing with flatmates and the uncertainties of the rental market, Ester Folkerts recently acquired a new apartment at Bluebell Heights, a newly developed area just a short distance from Brighton.
At the age of forty-three, this executive assistant originally from Leiden in the Netherlands, made the transition from her shared rental house in Brighton to a pristine one-bedroom home at the close of 2023.
Many solo buyers like Ester are finally achieving their dream home thanks to Shared ownership, a scheme that has made purchasing a home more economically feasible for individuals.
Shared ownership allows individuals to buy a share of a home, that may otherwise be out of their price range and pay a subsidised rent on the remaining share.
“I’ve been living with flatmates and other people since I came to the UK. This is the first time I’ve lived alone in this country, and it is very liberating. I can arrange my belongings however I please, and the apartment is a beautiful blank canvas, ready for me to leave my mark.”
Ester is thrilled with the newfound sense of freedom and space, expressing her satisfaction for focusing on the pleasures that comes with moving to a new place, like decorating to suit her preferences. She is even considering welcoming a pet into her new living space!
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Breaking Barriers: The Advantage of Shared Ownership’s Low Deposits
For Ester, the appeal of home ownership was also about financial independence and security, but it was the deposit that seemed daunting.
“The idea of buying my own property has been hanging over me for a long time. But buying outright and having to save up for a deposit on a traditional mortgage would have taken years and years, especially as I wanted to buy on my own. The prices in the Brighton/Hove area are also sky high.”
Ester began to research other alternatives, and it was through an acquaintance that she found out about shared ownership – it quickly became clear that this was the answer. The low deposit required meant that she could afford the dream apartment she so desperately wanted.
Why does Shared Ownership offer lower deposits?
Ester saved just £8,250, enabling her to secure a 30% equity share in her £275,000 home. The once formidable challenge of saving for an extended period now appeared to be much more achievable.
“Buying through shared ownership has made home ownership more affordable. If I’d bought outright, I’d have had to save for a much larger deposit, meaning I’d have been really stretched financially in other areas, I wouldn’t have been able to afford a holiday or go out so much with friends.”
With shared ownership, there is also the option to purchase further shares in the future through a process known as staircasing, which allows homeowners to own their whole home at any time they wish.
Perfect Living, Perfect Location: Every checkbox is ticked at Bluebell Heights
Ester emphasized the importance of her new home’s location in her decision-making process. Shared Ownership allowed her to afford an apartment in Bluebell Heights, a development that ticked all the boxes on her list.
“I had a comprehensive list of criteria; I wanted proximity to nature and the sea, yet I also needed easy access to Brighton’s city center to enjoy dinners at the latest foodie-approved restaurants with my friends. Bluebell Heights turned out to be the ideal choice, allowing me to reach the center of Brighton in under twenty minutes.”
Bluebell Heights has been thoughtfully designed, featuring generous communal gardens and direct entry to Stanmer Park, positioned just behind the development—ideal for those who cherish nature.
All the apartments at Bluebell Heights have Private balconies, terraces, or patios. This is something that Ester loved. She values the spacious outdoor areas, stating, “My balcony is remarkably roomy, enhancing the overall sense of space, and it provides a tranquil and quiet atmosphere.”
Another strong point of Bluebell Heights is the allocated parking space for each home. Ester finds great value in having her own parking space, especially after recently acquiring her own car.
“Securing my personal parking space here is a true luxury. Given the well-known parking challenges in Brighton, having a guaranteed spot without permits or concerns about finding parking after a long day at work is a tremendous relief.”
Bluebell Heights offers convenient access to major routes such as A23 and A27 towards London, Worthing, Chichester, and Eastbourne. Additionally, there is a bus route from Coldean to Brighton, ensuring residents stay well-connected. For quick access to central London and beyond, residents can take a 9-minute train ride from Falmer Station to Brighton.
Your Perfect Home Awaits at Bluebell Heights
Ensure you seize the opportunity to become a part of this fantastic new community, featuring shared ownership apartments with 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Ready-to-move-in selected homes available!
The residences at Bluebell Heights are not only stylish but also designed for energy and cost efficiency, boasting superior insulation, double-glazed windows, and solar panels on the roofs.
Purchasers will relish the comfort and convenience of a modern kitchen equipped with integrated appliances and high-quality flooring as standard. Some homes even offer upscale ensuites, providing an extra touch of luxury.
Every home comes with outdoor space, whether it’s a balcony, terrace, or patio, along with much sought after allocated parking spaces for added convenience.
Homes at Bluebell Heights start from:
- 1 bedroom apartments from £80,250 (based on a 30% share and full market value of £267,500)
- 2 bedroom apartments from £108,000 (based on a 30% share and full market value of £360,000)
- 3 bedroom apartments from £103,125 (based on a 25% share and full market value of £412,500)
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore our fully furnished show home on-site. Click the button below to discover more about Bluebell Heights or to book a viewing.
