A low deposit and a bedroom each

Kelly had been looking for a bigger home to rent when an unexpected search result opened up a possibility that had once felt out of reach. With the children getting older and two daughters sharing a bedroom, the family needed more space. Saving for a deposit while paying rent was difficult, and buying on the open market seemed a long way off. “I had just resigned myself to never being able to purchase a house and thought I wouldn’t ever get on the property ladder,” Kelly says.

A search for local four-bedroom homes brought up a Shared Ownership property. Kelly had heard of the scheme but assumed it would also need a large deposit. Seeing some homes advertised with 10% shares and deposits of a little over £1,000 was enough to prompt a closer look.

What began as a search for a larger rental became a search for a home to buy. Kelly looked at new and resale Shared Ownership properties within 30 miles and found Monks Meadow in Spalding, just a few minutes away. While other homes considered were too small, the four-bedroom layout at Monks Meadow offered the space the family needed. “With Shared Ownership I am able to buy a home more suited to my family’s needs with a lower and realistically achievable deposit,” Kelly explains.

Kelly has now reserved her home and will be moving in with Shay, Laila and Poppy, along with Jagger, the family’s dachshund and Jack Russell cross. The street layout appealed too, particularly the little stream opposite the house and the thought of looking out over it in the morning. Inside, the main bedroom and en suite are on the second floor, with room for Kelly to create a small office for working from home. The flooring package is another welcome addition, saving on the cost of getting the house ready.

For the children, the biggest excitement is having a bedroom each. Kelly had expected some discussion about who would have the largest room, but everyone was simply pleased to have their own space. The children are looking forward to choosing how their rooms will look. “My son said he can’t wait to have an actual desk in his room so that he can study, instead of standing at the kitchen counter!” Kelly’s eldest daughter is looking forward to setting up a dressing table and being able to get ready without her younger sister interrupting.

After feeling that home ownership might never happen, paying the reservation fee was a moment Kelly found hard to take in. “I couldn’t quite believe it. It feels so surreal that a big, beautiful new build house will be mine to make into a home. I am so, so excited.” About an hour later, seeing the website updated to show the home as ‘Reserved’ brought reassurance.

Kelly describes the process with Homemade Homes as smooth and simple. “Ash was just lovely throughout the whole process. He kept me informed and answered all my questions.” Alongside the excitement is pride in having saved the deposit. “I am so proud of myself for saving the deposit and being able to purchase a Shared Ownership home.” Kelly’s advice to anyone considering the same route is to ask questions and speak to people who have already bought through the scheme. “Don’t be scared to ask questions and get opinions,” Kelly says. “If an event is held near you, go along and speak to the team.”

With the reservation in place, thoughts are now turning to family life in the new home. A big kitchen table, with room for everyone to sit together, is also on the wish list. Having enough space for the older children to come home from university and stay will make the festive season especially meaningful. In previous years, they have had to stay with relatives or in a hotel because there wasn’t enough room.