Lisa’s story

Lisa had reached a point in life where she needed a home that could offer stability for her family and room to breathe. After a long marriage came to an end, the traditional route of buying a home felt out of reach. Lisa explored every avenue she could, yet nothing in her local area felt achievable. Shared Ownership became the option that made a future home possible.

Lisa was living in St Albans at the time. Properties seemed scarce and expensive, and the only home available through Shared Ownership was an apartment with limited space. “I knew I needed enough room for my children, and I couldn’t afford that on the open market,” she explained. “Buying a share meant I could secure a home that worked for us and still plan for the future. When my children move out, I’ll be able to sell and downsize comfortably.”

Her search quickly showed that not every provider made the process easy. Responses were slow, contact was patchy and at times dismissive. The experience was disheartening. Yet the turning point came when she widened her search beyond Hertfordshire. Lisa came across Shared Ownership at Hampton Woods in Peterborough. “It all happened at once. It felt like everything aligned,” she said.

Lisa was drawn to the development immediately. The team were supportive from the first conversation, taking time to help her understand the area and what life there might feel like. She felt reassured, not rushed. She even reserved her chosen plot before visiting, confident in the guidance she received. A quick trip to Peterborough confirmed she had made the right choice.

Today, she lives in what she describes as “the cutest little 3 bedroom house ever.” The bay window in the kitchen fills the home with light, and the extra space has transformed daily life. “After looking at an apartment with barely any storage, walking into this home felt like a gift,” she said. “There’s room for everything, the garden is lovely and the fresh air that comes through the windows in summer is perfect.”

The change of location has brought unexpected benefits too. Nature is close at hand, with lakes and green trails only minutes away. Her daughter has found school calmer and more settled. Her son, who returns during university breaks, enjoys the peaceful environment and has even found local work. Everything the family needs sits within a short drive, making day-to-day life easier.

Lisa knows that many people hesitate to look beyond their hometowns, but her advice is simple. “If you can’t afford to stay where you are, consider somewhere new. I was nervous about moving, yet it’s been the best decision for us. Hampton is peaceful, friendly and full of life. Shared Ownership gave us the chance to start again, and it’s made all the difference.”