Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re meeting married couple Benjámin and Dorottya, who recently swapped the stress of London renting for their first mortgaged home.

After walking past the new-build complex at Park Quarter one day in 2024, they instantly enquired online about moving in – and were some of the first homeowners in the building to get their keys back in October 2024.

They’re now getting settled in their £419,000 Barnet two-bed – and have even managed to make some home improvements to accommodate their two cats, Millie and Django.

Here’s what Ben had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Ben, I’m 28 years old and I’ve owned a window cleaning company for the last three years. Before that, I was an electrician. My wife Dorottya is 31 years old and she works as a quality assurance engineer. 

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area? 

New Barnet. We love it as it is still very close to London and we feel like we’re closer to nature. We have everything that we need on our doorstep.

When did you move in?

October 2024.

How much does your property cost?

£419,000.

How much was your deposit?

£90,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

Our mortgage repayment is £1,880 per month. We don’t currently have internet in our property since it’s a new-build and they haven’t commissioned the cables yet, but once that’s done, it’ll be around £40.

The council tax hasn’t yet been valued but we think it’ll be around £200. Our electricity costs £71 per month, water around £30, and the service charge and insurance is £100.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We’ve been saving for about 5 years together. We were renting a one-bedroom flat for £1,100 and later on £1,175, which saved us a lot of money compared to the renting market averages.

We’ve always been careful and we watch what we spend our money on. We saved a lot on organising our food shopping once a week and eating home-cooked food, cutting out takeaways, and no impulsive shopping. We also didn’t have any loans.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

It was really quick as we had a good mortgage adviser who guided us through the process and answered all of our questions.

The challenging part was getting our bank statements in order, as we had to gather two years’ worth of monthly statements from our joint account and our personal accounts. It was an annoyingly long process.

We also received a lot of paperwork from our solicitor and mortgage advisor like the mortgage deed, which wasn’t an easy read. It was hard to digest it.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We have a two-year fixed mortgage of 4.76%. The full length is 25 years.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Finchley Central, where we were renting a one-bedroom flat.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We wanted our own place to call home and to get on the property ladder.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Previously we lived in Finchley Central and liked the area but it was too expensive for us. We wanted to stay nearby, still in London, but in a more affordable area. Once we started looking we found nice flats New Barnet and during the viewings, we saw that the area itself is nice as well.

As we were coming out from viewing a property in New Barnet we walked past our current building. We had a look later that evening on the website, we booked a viewing two days later and put an offer in straight after.

We chose it for the spacious balcony, and the fact that we would be the first people to live in the property.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We wanted our place to feelcosy and welcoming. We focused on neutral tones with some industrial bits, and we’re always inspired by Canva and Pinterest, but it’s still a work in progress!

We’re planning to update the hallway, finish the bathroom, install a full-wall fixed mirror with LED strips, and add more personal touches to the living room and main bedroom.

So far, we’ve changed the bathroom’s hand wash basin on a pedestal to a cupboard with a new hand wash basin on top. We also made our balcony cat-proof as we have two cats.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Our favourite area in the property is the open-plan kitchen/living room/balcony.

We love it as we have a nice and large area where we can have our friends and family together without being on top of each other.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, it’s enough for the two of us and I think later if we plan to have a baby, we will still have enough space for all of us.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No, we’re happy here.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

As it is a new build we don’t currently have internet in our property. We moved in last October, and at the time, we were told the internet installation would be completed within two weeks.

However, the cabling work was only recently finished. We’re now waiting for the activation and commissioning on their end, which we hope will happen within the next few weeks. Once that’s done, we’ll be able to order an internet package from our chosen provider.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Take your time to do the research and have quite a specific idea about the must-haves in your future home. We knew we wanted two bedrooms, a balcony, a bathtub, and storage space.

A detailed list can be your best friend. If you have this strong idea, you won’t spend months viewing properties that aren’t suited to you. And get some basic hand tools!

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Yes, we are planning to stay here long-term. We’ll try to save up more money and put it towards the mortgage to reduce the term or the monthly payment.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in Rutland, in the East Midlands, meeting 37-year-old Kat Sanders, who lives with her husband Joe.

Back in 2015, the pair bought a tired barn conversion from Joe’s grandparents for £350,000, just outside Oakham.

After completing a full refurbishment of the Victorian property, which housed cows before it was converted into a house in the late 1980s, Kat and Joe managed to double their property’s value.

Ten years after first moving from London, Kat and Joe are still relishing their idyllic countryside life.

Here’s what Kat had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a mum of three and a part-time teacher and content creator. 

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

It’s in Rutland in the East Midlands, a beautiful area in the countryside surrounded by open fields. I love living here, I’m definitely made for country living! 

We’re both from the countryside, I’m from Worcestershire, and never felt London was home, so the move felt right and it was where we were supposed to be.

When did you move in?

We’ve lived here since May 2015.

How much does your property cost? And how much, roughly, was the cost of renovating?

We bought it for £350,000 and have spent upwards of £130,000 renovating. It’s now worth around £700,000.

How much was your deposit?

£90,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

Approximately £1,700 per month.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We saved up for the deposit through the sale of a previous house, and we lived with family for a year when we got married to save some extra money.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

We actually found the process really easy – we used a mortgage broker.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We recently switched to 4.5% for 25 years.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

We initially rented in London, and then lived with family before buying.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

I liked the security of buying, and being able to renovate the house was important to me.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

The house was already in the family. It was lived in by my husband’s grandparents and was originally a barn on their farm. The amount of space we had was amazing. It’s got a big garden that looks onto fields, and a wood at the back. It was a lot to look after so when we bought it, it was a disbelief, and a bit of relief too.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

A complete renovation has truly made it feel like home! I take a lot of inspiration from Instagram interior accounts.

My dad is also good at DIY so I watched him. It’s just ingrained in me to give it a go. You just go on YouTube and look it up if you’re stuck. I always think, what’s the worst thing that can happen?

I also buy a lot second-hand. I’m conscious of waste and our throw-away culture. I do get offered a lot of furniture, but I don’t take it unless I need it. Second-hand adds history and lasts for me.

When it comes to design choices, I don’t have a system – I just think: “Do I like it and is there a place for it to go?” These days I’m more adventurous with colour, moving from greys to neutrals and greens. I would describe my home as classic with a modern twist.

I guess you could call it modern country style. It’s not hugely traditional but has touches of a traditional English home. There’s even an original fireplace from when it was a barn – I’m not sure why a barn needed a fireplace – and we have a stable door too.

What’s your favourite room and why?

My favourite room is definitely the kitchen living space, we spend most of our time in this room and rarely use the living room.

It’s big enough to have the whole family in without feeling cramped, and it’s lovely and light due to the bifold doors and roof lantern. I love panelling – it adds character, and a lot of that was ripped out of the barn, which was a shame.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

I would love an extra bedroom upstairs and more storage, but otherwise, yes. 

Do you have plans to change the property?

I have a bathroom renovation that I’m planning. We have a tiny bath that needs to be replaced with a shower. I’ll also be reworking the garden this summer with an outdoor kitchen.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

As an old property, there’s always something, from leaks to animals getting in.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

If you have the option to save for a deposit by living with family, it’s a great way to reduce the mortgage.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term? 

I’m always on the lookout for the next project, but this definitely feels like home. It would need to be a very special property to get us to move.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in Chiswick, West London having a nose around Lexie Carducci’s two-bedroom flat. She bought the £442,000 home at just 24, having saved a 20% deposit.

She’s made a career out of the property world too, having ‘fallen’ into the industry after she started dating an estate agent when she first moved to London at 18.

Now, 15 years on, she describes herself as ‘property-obsessed,’ and works as a property personal shopper, content creator and presenter.

Here’s what Lexie had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Lexie Carducci, I’m 33 and I’ve been a London gal for 15 years now after moving here when I was 18 from Devon.

I spend my days helping househunters find their dream homes as their property personal shopper; so I’m not an estate agent, I’m employed either directly by my house hunters or by companies who need to find homes for their employees who are being relocated to London.

I then have a development company with my partner based in West London where we flip properties, title split houses, reconfigure spaces, renovate and sell them on.

I’m also a property content creator and presenter working with developers, house builders, property and home exhibition shows, property magazines, first-time buyer hubs and property awards shows, to create content for or with them, showcasing homes and producing area guides.

When I’m not on a building site, filming for a property client or helping a house hunter, you’ll find me strolling along the river with my dog Bali and maybe stopping for an afternoon tea along the way.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I currently live in Chiswick in West London, and I’ve been here for seven years after moving from Holland Park. I love the area so much that I moved from one home to another on the same street just 15 doors away. My next home which I’ll move into once the renovation is complete around the end of May is just two streets away, so I’m never leaving!

In Chiswick, you get the best of both worlds. It’s a speedy journey on the district line or from Chiswick mainline station into the city but it’s a very green area with the likes of Chiswick House and Gardens and the riverside walks.

You’ll always find me brunching in Megans or The Chiswick Fire Station. The Little Bird, Annie’s or The Hound are my go-to for cocktails and catch-ups with friends, and there are four fantastic pubs along the river.

When did you move in? 

I moved into this property nine years ago. It was the second place that I bought – originally as a flip, but I loved it so much I decided to stay. It’s a ground-floor, two-bedroom in a period conversion and it has direct access to a shared garden.

How much did your property cost? 

£442,000. I bought it in 2016.

How much was your deposit? 

I put in 20%, so £88,400.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills? 

I refinanced this property in 2018 for £575,000 after completing works on it. I now pay £2,400 per month for my mortgage. Bills include council tax which is £238 per month, gas and electric, which is £152, and water at £42 per month. There’s also a service charge of £60 per month, and I pay £35 for my internet and £8 for my CCTV/doorbell package.

Altogether that’s £2,935 a month.

How did you save up for your deposit? 

The deposit actually came from the very first property I bought which was a buy-to-let that I reconfigured from a one-bed to a two-bed and refinanced, pulling out all of my equity plus the value I had added, which gave me £130,000.

My very first mortgage came from savings and investments, and because I was working in property I knew a lot of developers. I used to invest any savings I had in their projects for a 10% ROI per annum, and I was investing about £5,000 a time – so although it didn’t give me lots of additional money, little bits definitely added up.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging? 

This mortgage was actually pretty smooth sailing but my very first one was tough because I was trying to get a buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time buyer, which meant I was very limited with the number of lenders who would consider lending to me.

I have always worked with a mortgage broker on any of my property deals as I find they are the best to advise me based on my personal circumstances at the time and have access to lenders you wouldn’t find on the open market.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)? 

The current mortgage on this property is 5.12% is on a two-year fixed which comes to the end of the fixed period in August this year. To highlight how much things can change, when I first bought this property the rate was 1.97%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family? 

Before this, I was living in Holland Park in a rental flat with my partner. A huge part of wanting to move was because we wanted to get a dog and in our rental flat we had no outside space. 

What made you want to buy rather than rent? 

I loved where I was renting in Holland Park but after owning my buy-to-let flat for two years my plan was always to refinance it and pull out money to use as a deposit on something else.

When I came to see this flat after initially thinking it would be my second buy-to-let, I actually thought it was a perfect place to call home. I loved the street and the location and it had the potential to add value to it anyway.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it? 

I actually found this place through an estate agent but off-market. As a property personal shopper, I’m always speaking with estate agents to find my househunters a home – so I did exactly the same for my own search.

I very much would always buy the worst place on the best street rather than vice versa. I would call the local agents and they would tell me about things that were either on the market or coming to the market.

It also helped that when I initially registered my search I already had my Agreement In Principle and I gave them the details of my mortgage broker, a lender I had the AIP with and my solicitor and that I had my deposit already saved. This showed that I was ready to move quickly.

I chose this property because I could see its potential. It was originally a one-and-a-half-bed with a separate kitchen, and this made me think I could reconfigure it easily into a proper two-bedroom by moving a couple of walls around.

It also was the ground floor apartment that looked over the garden so it had the opportunity to create direct garden access which would also add value. 

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

This was a head-to-toe renovation, so we replaced the kitchen, bathroom, all the flooring, the doors, the radiators, and all the paintwork and added a single door out to the garden from the living room.

Because we added the kitchen into the living room, we created a bar area for people to sit and eat, and act as a separation between the kitchen and living space.

For this home, my interior style was leaning towards industrial, so I had an exposed brick wall created using brick slips along one wall in the living and kitchen space. We have industrial-style pendant lights above the bar, brushed chrome fixtures and fittings and bright yellow metal bar stools.

What’s your favourite room and why? 

My favourite room is definitely the open-plan living room/kitchen. I spend so much of my time in here and although it’s not a massive space, it reminds me of toy houses I used to play with when I was little, where the spaces were multifunctional and served different purposes.

I like being able to stir whatever is cooking on the hob while my boyfriend chops the greens on the bar. I have my little pink Roberts Radio playing good vibes and serving good looks, and then our sofa, which I describe as the Goldilocks sofa because it fits the space perfectly. It’s neither too big nor too small – it’s just right.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

I think this flat has been really functional. Do I think it had enough space when I moved in? Yes. Do I think it has enough space now? Probably not, which is why I will shortly be moving just two streets away for more space.

This home, for me, has served its purpose. Saying that, it has always been slightly on the small side for a two-bedroom property, but what made it so appealing in the first place was the location.

Do you have plans to change the property?

I have no more plans to change the property, I think I have squeezed out all I can from it by the work I’ve already done including a full refurbishment, reconfiguring the space by moving walls to create a proper second bedroom and adding the door to give direct access to the garden.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

There was once a leak on the flat roof above our living space (which was an extension by the previous owner) but because it’s share of freehold all of the freeholders had a responsibility to pay for the repair of the roof, even though it was only our flat that was affected.

There’s also a shared driveway and it’s kind of an unwritten rule that the two ground floor flats have a space each (although technically it’s first come first served) so my boyfriend parks on the drive but I park on the street.

What do you want people to know about buying a home? 

There’s so much I would love people to know about buying a home. I really do think it should be taught in schools and that’s something I’m striving to do through my content creation and presenting in the property industry.

Understand what you can afford first before you even start browsing the market and get yourself organised in terms of spending habits, saving for a deposit and having a good credit score before applying for a mortgage.

Then when it comes to searching, don’t just rely on the portals; be proactive. Pick up the phone with estate agents, and be the first person they will think of to call when the right thing comes across their desk.

View, view, view, even if there is something that doesn’t quite tick all the boxes. Go and view it anyway because the wild card option will often take you by surprise.

And don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you don’t ask you don’t get and the worst someone can say is no – but back up any price reduction with evidence of why you have made that offer.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing?

I’ve really enjoyed living here, and I’ve just got the keys to my next home. It’s a full renovation and I hope to have it ready to move into by the end of May. I’m so excited to see the vision come to life.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in Uxbridge, West London, having a look around Billie-Jane Whitbread’s one-bedroom flat.

Having originally bought it in 2020 for £267,000, she managed to shave £33,000 off the asking price – which at the time, was £300,000.

Five years and a baby later, Billie-Jane and her partner are now looking to say goodbye to Uxbridge and move closer to her family in Iver, Buckinghamshire, where they’re hoping to buy a four-bedroom home.

Here’s what Billie-Jane had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself! 

I’m Billie-Jane, I’m 32 and I’ve lived in Uxbridge for five years. I work for the removals and storage company Gentleman & A Van, and I recently returned from maternity leave after having my son.

Where is your property, and what do you think of the area? 

I live in Cowley, Uxbridge, and I love it here. The area has great transport connections, which makes commuting easy.

When did you move in? 

June 2020. 

How much did your property cost? 

I bought it for £267,000, even though it was originally listed for £300,000.

The property had been reduced in price just before I viewed it. I then under offered, and it was accepted. My auntie works at an estate agent, so she was great at helping me navigate the situation, and how much to offer to get the best deal. 

How much was your deposit? 

£13,500. 

What is your monthly cost of living, including mortgage and bills? 

Around £1,900, which I cover myself. My partner doesn’t live with me, but he stays here occasionally to see our son.

How did you save for your deposit? 

I started saving as soon as I started working. Having worked in removals for so long, I saw firsthand how important homeownership was for so many people, and that motivated me to focus on getting on the property ladder myself. 

What was the process of getting a mortgage like? Did you face any challenges? 

I was very lucky. My boss, Terance Puna, has strong connections in the property industry and introduced me to a fantastic mortgage advisor.

That made the whole process much smoother than I had expected. Seeing so many customers go through the moving process, I knew I needed expert guidance, and my advisor was invaluable in helping me secure the right deal. 

Can you share details about your mortgage (rate/term)? 

I secured a great rate in 2020 with a 40-year term at 1.63% interest. 

Where did you live before buying — were you renting or living with family? 

Before buying, I lived in Hanwell, Ealing, with my parents and siblings. 

What made you want to buy rather than rent? 

I see the excitement of people moving into their dream homes every day. It’s such a big milestone, and I wanted to experience that for myself. I also wanted the stability of having my own space – somewhere I could truly make my own. 

How did you find this property, and why did you choose it? 

I found my flat through a Help to Buy scheme, which colleagues had told me about. Through the scheme, you get a 40% contribution from the government, which you pay back at £1 per month for the first five years.

When I viewed it, I loved how spacious it was for a new build. Now, with a young family, I appreciate how that space has stood the test of time.  

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s your interior decor style? 

Gentleman & A Van works closely with some of London’s top interior designers and being surrounded by that expertise has really influenced my style.

I’ve picked up so many ideas from the designers, like adding mirrors and mirrored furniture to lighten the darker spaces, which I’ve incorporated and has really made a big difference. 

What’s your favourite room and why? 

My bedroom is my favourite space. It’s bright and airy thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and it’s where I have my favourite furniture pieces. 

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

At the time of buying, yes. But since meeting my partner and having my son, more space would definitely be a bonus. 

Do you have plans to move? 

Yes, my flat is currently on the market. The Help to Buy scheme means thatI will owe the government 40% of the current value of my flat when it sells.

I’m looking to move to Iver as I would be close to my grandparents. It’s always been my dream to live there, and we’re ideally looking for a three or four-bedroom property with a garden close to the station.

What do you want people to know about buying a home? 

Owning a home has given me so much independence, and I’ll always look back on my first place fondly.

What are your future housing plans? 

Now that my family has grown, I need more space. My next home will be somewhere with even more room to grow – ideally, a house with a garden where my little one can play.

I want to focus on making memories with my partner and son and bringing our vision for the new home to life. 

Shall we have a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re having a nosey around Emily McAllister and Ciaran Dennis’ £278,000 two-bedroom maisonette in Upminster.

The pair got on the property ladder when they were just 23 and 24 respectively, having saved while living with their parents.

Now, they’ve found that the cost of their monthly mortgage is actually lower than the average rental rates for the area – and they’ve been able to put their own spin on the place, too.

Here’s what Emily had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Emily McAllister, 24, and my boyfriend, Ciaran Dennis, is 25. We’re based in Upminster, East London, with our Corgi, Padron. I work as a marketing manager, and Ciaran is an insurance broker.

Where is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in Upminster, right at the end of the District Line in Zone 6. We’ve both grown up here and absolutely love it.

It’s the perfect mix of quiet countryside and city living. There’s a park at the end of our road for dog walks, yet we’re only 20 minutes from London by train. It really feels like the best of both worlds.

When did you move in?

We got the keys in May 2024, but we didn’t officially move in until August 2024, after completing some much-needed renovations.

How much does your property cost?

We paid £278,000 for our two-bed maisonette.

How much was your deposit?

We put down a 10% deposit of £27,800.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

Our total monthly cost is around £1,817.49. Our mortgage is £1,250.20, and we overpay by £150 each month to chip away at it faster. Our council tax costs £177, water is £40, gas and electric £100, WiFi £27, TV licence £12, and contents insurance £23.80.

We also pay for boiler insurance, which costs £22 per month, a Ring doorbell at £7.99, and a window cleaner at £7.50.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We were really lucky to be able to live rent-free with our families while saving, which made a huge difference. We both used Lifetime ISAs (LISAs), which helped boost our savings with a government bonus, and my parents kindly gifted us around £5,000 towards our deposit.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

It was definitely overwhelming at first but we had an amazing mortgage advisor, Jason at Grech Wealth Management, who guided us through every step. We honestly couldn’t have done it without him.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We have a 35-year mortgage with a 4.89% interest rate.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We’ve always saved with the goal of buying a home, and renting in our area is actually more expensive than a mortgage. So, it was a no-brainer for us to buy rather than rent.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We spotted it as soon as it hit Rightmove and booked a viewing straight away. It needed a lot of work, but the location was perfect. We walked out of the first viewing knowing we had to put in an offer – so we did, immediately.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We did a lot of work when we got the keys. We’ve had a full rewire, a new boiler, we built an office mezzanine area and new flooring.

Doing all of the work was essential to make it liveable, but also meant we could really make it feel like our home by putting our stamp on it – huge shoutout to our amazing builders at Essex Install. I get most of my interior design inspiration from Pinterest or TikTok.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Probably our open-plan kitchen/living area – it’s great for hosting because whoever is cooking can still be part of the conversation. I also love our office mezzanine. It was a wasted space before, and transforming it into a functional area was such a satisfying project.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

For now, yes. Even though it’s a two-bed maisonette, we’re lucky to have loft access and a garage for extra storage. Creating a separate office space also made a huge difference in keeping our work setup away from our main living area.

Do you have plans to change the property?

We’ve done a lot already, but the list never really ends. Our next big focus is tackling the front and back garden to get it ready for summer. Inside, we still need to install built-in wardrobes in the spare room and paint all the doors.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Since our home was built in the ‘60s and hadn’t been updated much, we had quite a few issues. We had to do a full electrical rewire and install a new boiler, along with lots of cosmetic updates. It was a lot to handle at first, but worth it in the end.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Everything costs twice as much as you expect. Also, Facebook Marketplace will be your best friend when it comes to finding affordable furniture and decor.

Be patient – things take time and money, and it’s better to live in your space before making big interior decisions. Trust me, you’ll change your mind more than once.

What are your plans for the future in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

We’ll probably stay here for another two to three years before looking to buy a house in the same area. Ideally, we’d love our next home to be our long-term/forever home – I’d like to avoid the stress of moving and renovating again for as long as possible.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

As the UK entered lockdown, Patrick McAleenan was able to put some extra money aside towards a deposit.

It meant that after 25 years renting in London, he became a first-time buyer, aged 48, swapping the capital for a three-bedroom flat in St-Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex.

Since moving in 2021, he’s been able to connect with a creative community by the seaside, and is relishing in the freedom that homeownership has given him.

Here’s what Patrick had to say about his property journey…

Tell us about yourself…

My name is Patrick and I’m now 52-years-old. Professionally I’m a few things: I own a creative communications agency which offers brand, events and PR consultancy to premium brands, mainly in the alcohol industry.

I’m also a freelance journalist and currently writing my first work of fiction. I’m a keen art collector, love exercise (I was a personal trainer for a while) and hiking.

I’ve also recently taken my first pottery classes, so I’m excited to see where that goes next.

I live alone in a three-bedroom duplex apartment by the sea.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I live in St Leonards-on-Sea on the East Sussex coast. The area is a creative hub for artists, musicians and creatives, as well as a gastronomic and cultural hotspot with a real sense of community.

The area is still growing and there’s always something new happening. Much of the town is architecturally beautiful as it was built by the acclaimed British property developer James Burton, from 1827.

He also built most of Bloomsbury in London, as well as other architecturally significant areas in the city, including most of Regent Street.

I personally live in an 1850s maisonette (not built by Burton but in a similar style), which the previous owner (also a property developer) had completely renovated, keeping all the original features. It’s a five-minute walk from the sea which is blissful.

When did you move in?

January 2021. I knew this was going to be my home as soon as I walked into it, after first viewing it six months before. It had most of the features I wanted and I could instantly see myself living here.

How much does your property cost?

I bought it for £325,000. It was on the market for £310,000 but everything was going for over the asking at that time, so I knew I had to go a little higher.

How much was your deposit?

I had a deposit of £70,000 which was my own savings and a £10,000 gift from a very generous friend who wanted to see me get on the property ladder.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

More than it did two years ago. I renewed my fixed-rate mortgage in November 2023 and bills like utilities have gone up quite a bit. My service charges have remained steady thankfully.

In total, I’m paying £2,400 a month on my mortgage and bills – £1,800 of that is my mortgage payment.

How did you save up for your deposit?

The pandemic. I travel a lot for work and pleasure so I got to stay home and just stopped spending money, aside from the essentials. I had £30,000 already saved and quickly saved the rest during that time at home.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Quite seamless thanks to my mortgage broker. As a freelancer who had just set up a limited company, I thought it would be more difficult than it was. She was creative and very supportive. I was limited on lenders so she focused on the one who was most likely.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

I’m with Barclays and on a two-year fixed rate of 5.92% until November 2025. It went up significantly (by £600 per month) after the first two-year fixed term.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I rented for 25 years in London and lived in 10 different places. I lived with a close friend in her home in North London for my final eight years in the city.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

I wanted my own home, to settle in one place that was mine. I was also approaching 50 and very aware I had a window to make that happen.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

I knew I wanted to leave London and live by the sea, but still have easy access to the city for work and to see friends.

I also wanted an architecturally interesting and beautiful place to live. I kept reading about St Leonards so took the train on a very wintry day and loved it. I thought if I like it in winter, I’ll love it even more in the summer.

I saw a lot of properties in the year it took me to finally buy one, as it was very competitive (mainly with other Londoners). I bid on and lost two before finally buying where I live now.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

I’ve always loved interiors and obsessively read interiors magazines. I’ve also been told I have a good eye.

My apartment had been completely renovated so everything was new, down to all the appliances. I arrived with two pieces of bedroom furniture, two chairs, books, magazines and a few pieces of art, so I was almost starting from scratch. I had managed to save a nice budget for the interior.

I wanted to buy quality pieces of contemporary and vintage furniture that I knew I’d have for a long time, so I focused on buying UK and Italy-made, with a focus on different types of wood, textures and patterns. I have a beautiful hand-made rug from Beni Rugs in Morocco. I wanted lots of colour, and art on the walls and shelves.

I worked with a talented local carpenter to create beautiful storage solutions and with a community filled with artists, I’ve slowly collected a few pieces from locals including Julia Swaby and Tim Nathan, as well as other work I’ve purchased on my travels.

I’d say my style is luxurious comfort with bursts of colour. Think Soho House (I have furniture and lighting from Soho Home) meets art gallery.

What’s your favourite room and why?

My living room – it’s a colourful sanctuary filled with my favourite things including art, photography, plants, books and other objects. It’s also flooded with light at certain times of day.

When my friends come, they say they never want to leave that room.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

More than enough. It’s 1000 sq ft just for me! It was originally a three-bedroom but I had the smallest bedroom converted into a walk-in wardrobe – something I’d always dreamed of having.

I have a second bedroom for guests, who come regularly. The apartment is on three levels as the entrance hallway is on the ground floor and with high ceilings and lots of windows, it feels very spacious and light-filled.

Do you have plans to change the property?

Yes. One day I will knock down a wall between my kitchen and a (wasted) hallway to create a banquette-style dining room. The apartment is painted all in one colour so eventually I’d like to paint areas in different colours and shades, but for now, it’s perfect as it is.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

It’s an 1850s maisonnette so it requires upkeep but I’ve had to do nothing major since I’ve arrived. It’s a four-storey house with my neighbours in the basement and ground floor.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

See a few places first to get a feeling for what you like. I put a bid in on the first property I saw because I liked the high ceilings and fireplace. I didn’t get it and I’m so happy I didn’t. It was completely wrong for me.

I quickly learned not to be impulsive and not get emotionally attached to a property; easier said than done but it worked. It made me very decisive.

Follow your gut when you do find that dream place. I made an offer the day I saw my home. It was £15,000 over the asking and the owner instantly agreed. It was worth every penny as my property has increased in value quite a bit in three years.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Yes. It may not be my forever home but I’m staying put for the foreseeable. I’ve put my heart and creative soul into making it my (and others’) sanctuary.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in Battersea visiting 33-year-old Elliot Gleghorn, who bought a two-bedroom flat in Nine Elms.

Prior to moving into his new home, Elliot rented nearby and was able to save through the London Living Rent (LLR) scheme.

Funded by the Mayor of London, the policy enables tenants to boost their savings by paying a reduced rate for their rented homes, eventually giving them the opportunity to buy their rental property – or a different home – through shared ownership.

Now, Elliot lives right next to the vibrant Battersea Power Station with its shops and restuarants, and even has the Nine Elms Sainsbury’s Superstore (so beloved it’s gained a niche online fan club) right on his doorstep.

Here’s what Elliot had to say about his property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a 33-year-old chartered surveyor and I’m originally from Hertfordshire. I moved to London mainly for work, but it’s always been somewhere I wanted to live and own a property. I believe that shared ownership was the only way I could achieve this.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I’ve been lucky enough to purchase a brand-new apartment close to my previous London Living Rent apartment in Nine Elms, and my monthly payments are actually lower now with shared ownership than they were renting.

How did you save up for your deposit?

I previously lived in an apartment rented out by housing association and developer L&Q Homes, who offer tenants the option to take part in the London Living Rent scheme. There, I was paying £1,540 per month, of which £350 was allocated towards a deposit.

It allowed me to live in a great location, in a high-quality home, while saving up each month. It gave me the lifestyle I wanted, but still left room for my long-term goal of homeownership. Without it, I would’ve likely had to flat share, which wouldn’t have been ideal.

It gave me the independence and flexibility I needed to start saving for a home of my own. I started looking after two years of saving through London Living Rent. Paired with some inheritance, I was able to use my savings to secure a two-bedroom apartment just down the road.

When did you move in?

October 2024.

How much does your property cost?

The full market value is £820,000. I own 25% through shared ownership, which equates to £205,000.

How much was your deposit?

£110,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Around £1,500 per month (including mortgage, shared ownership rent, service charge and bills).

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Very straightforward, but I would highlight that the key is working with an experienced mortgage advisor who has good knowledge of how affordable and shared ownership products work, and has good relationships with the high street banks.

This makes it much more efficient to find and secure the best rate, and most appropriate lender for your circumstances.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

I’m on a three-year fixed no-fee purchase. I was given a loan of £95,000 for a duration of 40 years.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

Recent large rent hikes and increases in the cost of living have made renting in London very difficult.

I concluded that if I wanted to continue to enjoy working and living in London, a shared ownership purchase was the only viable option that allowed me to build equity in my own property. Renting through London Living Rent helped me to save.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

I did my research – I looked into the available shared ownership schemes in Wandsworth (the London borough I worked in). I also registered on the affordable housing government website to receive updates from relevant housing associations.

I chose this development as it is one of the tallest and most impressive newbuild developments in London, with views over the River Thames. It’s a modern high-quality build, has great amenities, and fantastic transport links nearby.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

Fortunately, I moved from a self-furnished one-bedroom flat nearby, so I was already very familiar with the area and it was quite straightforward to move everything over to the new apartment, which made the transition really easy.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

I have a two-bedroom flat as a single occupant, which means I can utilise the second bedroom as an office, and implement good storage solutions to make the place feel much less cluttered.

Storage space is normally a problem in apartments, particularly in London, so with the benefit of the second bedroom, the property feels surprisingly spacious.  

Do you have plans to change the property?

Nothing other than a few more minor decorations.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

There have been some snagging issues to do with the heating system, but this was all dealt with by the developers and is to be expected with new build properties.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Please do your research, get good advice from experienced property experts and only make the big commitment to purchase a shared ownership property, once you have understood the costs and benefits, because like everything in life, there are always both!

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

In the long term, my preference is to staircase and build my equity in the property.

My aim is to be in the property for a minimum of three years before considering my next steps. For the moment it suits all my requirements perfectly.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week we’re down in Exeter, Devon visiting Rosie Parsons, who has spent £130,000 renovating her £225,000 Victorian three-bed home.

Having relocated from Honiton, 17 miles northeast, Rosie has found her community in the heart of Exeter. Now, she and her children are just five minutes’ walk from the city centre – and yet, it still feels like a village.

Here’s what Rosie had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Rosie, a single mum to 11-year-old triplets and a 10-year-old. I work as a celebrity and brand photographer, and I live with my children in a three-bed Victorian terrace in the heart of Exeter. 

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I’m right in the centre of Exeter in a place called Newtown. I absolutely love it because it feels like a village right in the heart of the city.

We have everything within a minute’s walk – a primary school, our church, and a corner shop – plus the entire city centre is just a five-minute stroll away.

Despite being so central, it’s surprisingly peaceful because we’re set back from the town in these lovely old narrow streets that you’d only venture down if you lived here.

When did you move in?

I bought the house just a month before the pandemic started.

How much does your property cost?

I bought it for £225,000 but spent a further £130,000 renovating it, which I’m still paying off now as it ended up being much more expensive than anticipated.

How much was your deposit?

£50,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

I was very fortunate to secure a five-year fixed mortgage when interest rates were still low, so my mortgage is currently only £605 a month, with bills around £600. I am a bit worried about when the fixed term ends in a couple of years, though – those payments will definitely go up.

How did you save up for your deposit?

Being self-employed made getting on the property ladder quite challenging. My ex-husband and I started by buying a very modest flat in Honiton for £112,000, which cost just £400 monthly pre-children.

We were able to overpay the mortgage by £500 each month on top of our regular payments. This helped build up equity in the flat, so even though we sold at a loss later, we managed to save a decent amount.

We then moved to another house where we continued to overpay when possible – until the children came along (they’re expensive).

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

After my divorce, getting a mortgage became incredibly difficult. Online comparison tools were only offering me around £100,000 maximum. As a last resort, I reached out to a mortgage advisor named Kelly Gribble from Elite Financial Consulting whom I’d met through business networking.

She was absolutely amazing – she found a mortgage company that considered not just my photography income, but also my child benefits, working tax credit, and child maintenance payments.

This made it possible for me to get the house I wanted and have some equity left for renovations (though it wasn’t nearly enough – I ended up borrowing quite a bit from family and using credit cards).

Kelly handled all the paperwork and made the process incredibly smooth. I genuinely couldn’t have done it without her.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

I’m on a five-year fix at 1.41% until February 2027. I know I’m very lucky to have secured this rate before everything went up. 

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I lived with my now ex-husband in Honiton in a smaller home with a mortgage.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

If you can secure a mortgage, it’s generally cheaper than renting. Plus, you have the freedom to decorate as you please without worrying about a landlord increasing the rent or deciding to sell. I also wasn’t keen on the idea of regular property inspections.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

I actually first fell in love with another house on this street but lost out in a bidding war when it went above my budget. Then when I found this place, I got my offer accepted but was gazumped.

Fortunately, I had some spare equity and was able to counteroffer successfully. The location really sold it for me – being so close to the city centre while still maintaining that quiet atmosphere. 

I also saw huge potential in the house. While it was a bit rough around the edges when I bought it, it felt significantly larger than our previous home. Although the children still need to share rooms, they’re much more spacious than the two single bedrooms we had before, which really wasn’t working for four children.

I love that the garden is south-facing, meaning we get sunlight all day at the back of the house. Natural light was a really important factor for me.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We’ve done a complete renovation, including knocking down walls, adding an extension, and converting the loft bedroom. We relocated the bathroom upstairs and created an open-plan kitchen at the back of the house.

I wanted the space to feel connected so the family could be together even when doing different activities. We installed bifold doors at the back to maximise natural light and create a lovely view of the garden.

I spent a year during renovations gathering inspiration from Pinterest, aiming for a style that’s colourful and playful but would stand the test of time and flow cohesively throughout the house.

I had to balance the needs of a busy family home with my photography business, so I’ve turned the middle room into a lovely office/studio space that would otherwise be unused.

We’ve used wallpapers and artwork from Etsy to add splashes of colour. To save money, I got creative with the kitchen – I actually pieced it together from four different secondhand kitchens found on eBay.

I repainted all the wooden doors in one colour, replaced the handles, and added a wooden worktop to tie it all together. It gave the house character and saved me a fortune – I spent about £3,000 versus the minimum £10,000 quoted by kitchen companies.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The kitchen is definitely my favourite. The bifold doors were a splurge but absolutely worth it – they flood the space with natural light, making the whole house feel brighter and more cheerful.

I love the striped walls too; they add a cute touch that makes me happy without being overwhelming.

I’ve also invested in high-quality artificial flowers throughout the space. While I love fresh flowers, they don’t last long, so good quality faux ones give me that same pretty effect year-round without the ongoing expense.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Having multiple children and working from home means space is definitely tight. We’re currently facing some challenges with bedroom sharing – the two girls weren’t getting along in their shared room, so I’ve temporarily given one of them my bedroom while I sleep on the sofa. It’s not ideal.

While I truly love this house, I think we’ll eventually need somewhere bigger so everyone can have their own room, plus a guest room would be lovely. I sometimes dream about moving to the countryside with a driveway and a fireplace, though I’m sure I’d miss the convenience of city living.

Do you have plans to change the property?

There are just a few finishing touches needed. The garden is high on my wish list – I’d love to get that sorted in time for summer so we can really enjoy the outdoor space.

We’re also still without a shower because of a faulty installation issue, so we’ve been making do with just a bath for the last four years.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

The main issue is definitely bedroom space. Just one more bedroom would make it perfect.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Moving is expensive, so look for properties with potential in good locations. Your needs evolve with your lifestyle – whether it’s having kids, their friends visiting, or starting a home business – so having flexible space is really valuable.

If you’re like me and natural light affects your mood, prioritise properties with good lighting. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of parking – consider not just your own needs but also where visitors will park. It can become a real headache if you don’t think about it in advance.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

It really depends on how my business performs over the next few years. I think we’ll stay put while the children are in high school, but once they’re older and can drive themselves around, I might finally make that move to the countryside and get that driveway and open fire I’ve been dreaming about.

Shall we have a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in Birmingham visiting Michael Swords, who bought his one-bedroom flat through shared ownership in 2024.

Michael has saved countless pennies by opting to part-own through the scheme, which allows buyers to purchase a percentage of the property with a reduced deposit.

If he rented his apartment in full (rather than paying a share of the mortgage), he’d have to fork out £400 extra per month.

Here’s what Michael had to say about his property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I am 37 years old, working as a property lister for Connells Estate Agents in Birmingham. I currently live alone in Belgrave Village with my small dog, Jack.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

My property is in Belgrave Village, in the B12 area of Birmingham city centre.

As a dog owner, the green space and peaceful surroundings was as important to me as a quick commute to the office.

When did you move in?

I moved in on July 31, 2024.

How much does your property cost?

The full value of my one-bedroom apartment is £210,000. I purchased the home via shared ownership (through Home Reach by Heylo) and own a 30% share.

I reserved off-plan in December 2023 when the property was under construction. A very similar apartment at Belgrave Village has just sold for £230,000.

How much was your deposit?

My deposit was only £3,000. The low deposit requirement is what made it possible for me to buy this newly built apartment.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

I pay a £340pcm mortgage repayment, together with £337pcm rent for the remaining 70% of the property, so £677 all together. If I was renting this apartment, I would be paying £400 a month more.

As it’s an energy-efficient new build, the bills are very low. There’s no gas here, and electricity and water costs me a total of £80 per month.

How did you save up for your deposit?

By cutting back on social events and avoiding spending money where it was not necessary, such as takeaway lunches and coffees.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

The mortgage application was very easy and stress-free. My mortgage adviser – Jack Speed from Connells – took care of the entire process and made it a very pleasant experience.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

I secured a two-year fixed-rate mortgage from Skipton Building Society at 5%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I was renting previously, and then a year before I intended to move to Belgrave Village, I gave up renting and moved back with family to save money.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

I wanted to achieve something that was mine and could not be taken away. This is also an investment for my future. I intend to staircase until I eventually own the remaining 70% share, and someday rent this apartment out when I’m in a position to buy a house.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Belgrave Village was recommended to me by the New Homes team at Connells Birmingham. They showed me the development and all the residents’ amenities that come with it.

The gym, co-working space and screening room are opening early next year. I instantly fell in love with the development and the apartment itself, especially as it has a private terrace with views across the landscaped communal gardens.   

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

I have a very neutral and muted taste in décor and dislike clutter. I love beige and cream tones – but sharpened off with a solid colour like black. I took my interior design inspiration from Kim Kardashian’s home.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The living room is my favourite. There is so much space, yet it feels cosy and warm.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

I have more than enough space. I’m a single guy with a small dog, but a couple could live happily here.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No, there is nothing I want to change. Wavensmere Homes’ standard specification is very high and I’ve put my own stamp on the interior.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Nothing that isn’t expected when purchasing a new property. The team at Wavensmere Homes were quick to rectify snagging issues.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

If you feel saving for a deposit to purchase your own home is a million miles away, then shared ownership is a fantastic way to help you achieve that goal a lot sooner.

I didn’t think I would be able to buy a brand-new home like this until I became aware of shared ownership and received the calculations.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

I don’t plan to live in the apartment forever, as I would like to start a family one day and will need more space. But for the next few years at least, I will enjoy it here.

By then, I hope to have staircased and bought the remaining 70% share of the property.

I will then look to rent this apartment out and keep it as a long-term investment. I would actually love to buy one of the beautiful three-bedroom houses in Belgrave Village, but they are priced at around £400,000.  

Shall we have a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re up in Leeds in God’s Own County, West Yorkshire, where 28-year-old Sophie Marshall Clark and her fiancé Ben bought their dream cottage last year.

They previously lived in a flat just around the corner and realised that with their combined savings, they’d be able to buy the home – saving themselves huge sums in rent – as soon as it hit the market.

The pair fell in love at first knock with the candyfloss pink front door, and since moving in last year, have made the place their own, priding themselves on nurturing a cosy, familiar space.

Here’s what Sophie had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I live in West Yorkshire with my fiancé, Ben. I’ve freelanced for eight years working in design and innovation. I’ve got a big love for all things decor and design.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live just outside of Leeds. We often get comments thinking we live in the countryside, but our house is actually only 15 minutes from the city centre. It feels like we’ve got a good slice of both cottage and city living, with the local area having gorgeous little cafés and a good high street.

When did you move in?

We moved just over a year ago, in September 2023.

How much did your property cost?

£320,000.

How much was your deposit?

£32,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Between the two of us, we pay around £1,800 including our bills.

How did you save up for your deposit?

It was really just years of putting money aside and being quite strict with ourselves. There are no tips other than trying to resist the sneaky treats!

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

We had a mortgage advisor who made everything simple. I was pleasantly surprised that they do all the hard work for you, and let you know when and what they need. It was far less complex than I thought it would be.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

Our mortgage rate is 4.1%, fixed for five years, and the mortgage itself is across a total of 30 years.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Ben and I rented a flat just around the corner. We’d been living there for around a year and a half when this property came on the market.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

It just made sense for where we were in our lives. We knew we wanted to stay in Leeds for some time, and the rent was going up in our flat.

We’d have ended up paying more there for a two-bed flat, so thought why wouldn’t we buy a house instead? It’s also just the nicest thing to be able to decorate your own home as you please.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We used to walk past the house most days and had always said how lovely it was, and how it would be an amazing first home. We called it the ‘little cottage with the pink door’, so when one day we saw the for-sale sign, we thought we needed to go for it.

The viewings were completely booked, so we sent a letter to the owners to snag one, and they were lovely and managed to squeeze us in. The rest is history.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

Growing up, all the women in my life have been very houseproud and had an eye for design. Nostalgia is a big thing for me, and I always wanted my home to feel cosy, familiar and timeless.

Ben and I both just enjoy choosing things we love without overthinking whether it all goes together. I’d describe it as an eclectic and cosy mix of bits and bobs.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Definitely the lounge. We installed the log burner last year and built the alcove units ourselves. It’s been a labour of love and taken the entire year to get sorted, but now it’s the cosiest spot to snuggle up in and watch films with family. 

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Just about! We’re lucky that we’ve got a basement and attic so plenty of storage space. Ultimately, it is two bedrooms, so at some point we’ll need to move – but it serves us well for what we need right now.

Do you have any plans to change the property?

No. It’s small but also doesn’t have much land around it, so we’ve not got much ability to build further. We’ll continue to add finishing touches, and we’ve got some gorgeous blinds coming in the new year for the study.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Like any old property, you’re always going to find little things. It’s very wonky, so when we’ve been adding shelving and built-in units, things just take longer. But it is all part of the charm.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

I don’t think many people tell you that yes, you need the deposit, but you also need a cushion of cash to look after any teething issues and get the basics bought. So, save that little extra so you’re slightly more comfortable moving in and can deal with any issues without too much financial stress.

I’d also say, you’ll be better at DIY than you think! Give anything a go – you can always repaint or rebuild, but we’ve saved so much money just trying it ourselves.

What are your plans for the future in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

We’ll be here for a good while. If we could, we’d never leave! It will end up being a space issue for us, but we’re hoping to get a good five years in this house.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in sunny St Neots, Cambridgeshire, visiting 51-year-old Richard Tosh. Having relocated to New Zealand 17 years ago, he wanted to reconnect with his British roots.

And so, along with his wife and youngest daughter, he packed up his Kiwi home earlier this year, and moved to the UK for a fresh start.

Left with a blank canvas, they were able to bring their own spin to the home – and bought entirely new furniture for the occasion.

Here’s what Richard had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Richard Tosh, and I’m 51. I’m a solicitor, and my wife Jennifer, 47, was a school administrator in New Zealand. We lived in New Zealand for 17 years, but we felt it was time for a change.

Jennifer’s originally from New Zealand, but I was born in Scotland and grew up near Middlesbrough before spending 10 years in London.

We moved here with our 13-year-old daughter, Lauren, and our two miniature schnauzers. We also have a 19-year-old daughter, Brianna, who still lives in New Zealand.

In my free time, I enjoy walking and have been getting back into it since we moved. The walking trails around here are fantastic for that, as well as for taking the dogs out.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

Our property is in Cala Homes Wintringham development in St Neots, Cambridgeshire.

When did you move in?

June 1, 2024.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Auckland, New Zealand, in a house built in 1989 which we owned.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We found the property on Rightmove. We liked the size, design and features of the house and the sales team was friendly.

We decided to move to St Neots because it felt like the right place for us to start fresh and be closer to family and friends.

Being originally from the UK, I felt a strong pull back to my roots, and Jennifer and I wanted a home that offered the modern features we’d been missing in New Zealand.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Our favourite part of the home is the kitchen/dining area. We love the skylights which make the house lovely and bright.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, it’s very spacious and decorated really well, and we love the space in the kitchen/dining area.

We have a four-bedroom, three-storey home which is great so our daughter can have one floor and guests can have another. We also have a big garage which is great for storage.

How much does your property cost?

£550,000.

How much was your deposit?

£300,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

£3,000.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We used some of the proceeds from the sale of our house in New Zealand.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

It was harder than we thought it would be because we had lived overseas for 19 years.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

It is a five-year fixed term and the interest rate is 4.73%.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We wanted to continue to own a home, as we did in New Zealand, and pay off a mortgage rather than pay rent to a third party with no prospect of ever owning the home.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We have bought nearly all new furniture. We were advised not to paint the walls or hang anything up on them for two years as the new building materials, such as wood frames, concrete and paint, need time to dry out and settle.

Cala advises customers not to decorate in the first couple of years because the house needs time to ‘settle,’ meaning the walls and ceilings, need to dry out and adjust to their environment.

So for now, they are still all white and very minimalist, but we’re looking forward to decorating when we can.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Try and do it as soon as you can rather than paying ‘dead’ money to a landlord. Pick an area you like and then look at a sample of new and used homes in your price range before deciding what is best for you.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Our youngest daughter is in year 10. We will wait for her to finish her schooling and then we will see what we want to do at that stage. We might stay on, or we might look at a move to Yorkshire.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re back in the Big Smoke visiting Hazel Waite and Simon McNair.

Since moving into their one-bedroom Kidbrooke flat in 2021, they’ve made it their own with leafy plants, colourful wall prints and eclectic trinkets.

Last week, we were in East London visiting Arooj Aftab, who pays £1,780 a month for her share of her two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat with her sister.

She’s seen her bills cut drastically since renting, as her monthly payment even includes a free coffee subscription, a co-working space and access to a state-of-the-art gym.

But for now, here’s what Hazel and Simon had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

We’re Hazel Waite, a 37-year-old sales and events manager, and Simon McNair, a 37-year-old psychologist.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in a one-bedroom home in Loder House in Berkeley’s Kidbrooke Village in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

We love the area! It’s in an accessible Zone 3 location that really gives the best of both worlds. When you step into Pegler Square from the train station, you immediately feel transported from the hustle and bustle, while still having all the benefits of being located in one of London’s most sought-after boroughs.

The area is also full of parklands and lovely green, open space which makes it feel like a true oasis of calm. There’s Cator Park, and Sutcliffe Park has Green Flag status. They’ve got a lovely duck pond.

We love the sense of community that Kidbrooke Village has, as well as the close access to all the things we love and need to make everyday living convenient. Having a resident’s gym on site is great too.

Being so close to Blackheath is fantastic – it’s a nice local area to visit and they also have farmer’s markets on a Sunday which are really lovely. There are always wonderful organic food and specialist products, as well as wine bars and shops.

We quite like walking and it only takes us 45 minutes to walk into Greenwich from here, so we often go across the park, and you get a lovely view of Canary Wharf.

When did you move in?

We moved into Kidbrooke Village in 2021 and we are now celebrating three years as homeowners and members of the community.

How much was your deposit? How did you save up for it?

Our deposit was £26,000. This came mainly from our own savings and our ISA, which came to £26k. We were also fortunate to be gifted some of the deposit from family to assist us, which also helped us cover some of the legal costs.

How much did your property cost?

Our property was £460,000. 

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Our mortgage is £800 a month with a £200 service charge. In terms of bills, our council tax is £140, water is £40, electricity and heating are £50 each. We both then also pay around £180 each per month on travel into London.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

Our mortgage is 30 years fixed rate at 1.6%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Before moving to Kidbrooke Village we were renting together in Clapham and dealing with an unreasonable landlord.

Like many young couples, we wanted a more secure future but were unsure whether we would be able to turn our dream of owning a home into a reality.

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

We didn’t want to carry on renting and dealing with our landlord, so we decided to apply for a mortgage. From the moment we picked up the keys and walked in we felt a sense of relief.

We’ve been living here for three years now and only just painted the walls which we’ve never been able to do before in rental properties.

It’s taken us a little while to realise that we can do what we want to the home now and really make it our own. It’s been nice and freeing.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Like most people, we decided to ask Google first. Our requirement of being close and easily commutable to wider London provided a number of options, so we picked our top three and decided to visit them all in a single day.

One of the biggest factors for us was that the train station is so close by. Other properties we saw (in North London) felt like they were in the middle of nowhere.

Kidbrooke feels like a very easy commute to the centre for us and there are at least four trains an hour every morning which can get us to London Bridge in 17 minutes.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

The Berkeley team was so helpful throughout the whole buying process and explained everything so clearly to us.

Buying a home can be really stressful, but the sales agent put our mind at rest and things didn’t take too long – we were in the property within a few months.

The mortgage process was easy, and we didn’t realise how quickly the mortgage would come through. Within a matter of days, we had received it and our dream of buying became a reality.

How have you made the property feel like home?

Our previous rental was partly furnished, so we really enjoyed purchasing new furniture for our home, including a bed. We took several trips to the local IKEA which is just a short bus ride away.

We planned out where to place our furniture in our open-plan living space and have recently painted our living room and bedroom.

We’ve also included personal touches by making sure to hang pictures on the walls and buy plenty of plants too!

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We like things to feel modern, but we haven’t really looked anywhere specific for inspiration. Instead, we have decorated it with colours and objects that we like so the space feels very ‘us.’

What’s your favourite room and why?

The living space is our favourite as it’s the room that we spend most time in and is the one we have completed furnishing and decorating.

We are still working on finishing the bedroom, but once that’s done, we think that will be a strong favourite.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes! There is plenty of space for the two of us. The open floor plan of the apartment gives ample space and the room is generously sized.

Having plenty of green, open space on the doorstep and great amenity spaces also means it feels super spacious for us.

Do you have plans to change the property?

Not at present. The property works really well for us, and we’ve decided that we would like to remain here.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

There have been no issues with the property itself, no.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Buying a home is a big decision, so don’t make it quickly and think things over once, twice, three times before you commit. Once you’ve shown interest, they’ll likely keep checking in to see where you’re at – stay calm and think things over.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Yes – we’re happy with the location and lifestyle that living at Kidbrooke Village affords so we’re looking to stay here long-term.

Shall we take a look around?

This piece was originally published on July 6, 2024.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

This week, we’re in East London, where 40-year-old James Barley and his 51-year-old partner David own a vibrant two-bedroom flat.

Since buying the place in 2019, they’ve slowly made it their own – and now it’s plants and wall prints galore.

Here’s what James had to say about their property situation…

Tell us about yourself!

My name’s James: I’m 40, and work as a senior PR publicist and content creator focusing on men’s style, fitness and interiors.

I live in a two-bedroom ex-local authority flat with my partner, David, who’s 51 and a trainee psychotherapist in his final year. We share the flat with 9-year-old French Bulldog, Buster.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in Hackney, close to London Fields and Victoria Park. The area has everything we need on our doorstep – great coffee shops, restaurants, parks and the canal for running, as well as a cinema at the top of the road for a lazy date night option.

When did you move in?

We moved into the flat in April 2019 after viewing it in the January. As soon as I saw the place, I instantly fell in love with it – David too, but he was a lot more chilled about it and was keen to see other properties to compare.

How much does your property cost?

We bought it for £400,000 which was under our budget, allowing us to start renovations pretty much as soon as we got the keys.

How much was your deposit?

We had a deposit of £40,000 which was made up of savings and some money from an inheritance.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

A lot more than it did five years ago that’s for sure! We’ve recently renewed our fixed-rate mortgage and seen bills like utilities and service charges increase.

In total we’re paying £2,300 a month on mortgage and bills – £1,800 of that is our mortgage payment and £300 is on council tax and service charges. 

The only saving grace is that it’s still cheaper than renting, so we feel very lucky in that respect.

How did you save up for your deposit?

I had an inheritance from when my dad passed away over 10 years ago and David had savings.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Yes, many mortgage lenders have restrictions on ex-council flats and buildings above four stories which limited our choices, but we had a great advisor who helped us through the application process.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We are with Santander on a five-year fixed rate of 4.69%. Our previous fixed rate recently expired which has meant a huge jump in the cost of the mortgage as interest rates have gone up since we bought the flat.

We had a lot to think about when looking for a new deal, but in the end, we stuck with our current lender and prioritised certainty of housing costs over trying to guess interest rates.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Before buying the flat we rented a one-bedroom new build in Dalston. Although it was nice, the walls felt paper thin and the rooms were quite small.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

For us it made sense to buy while we could – from my experience, landlords don’t care too much about the maintenance of their properties as long as they’re getting paid. They really do hold the monopoly over renters, especially in London where they can charge through the roof.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We found it online through an estate agent. We both decided on it being the one we’d like based on the location, space and size. I still think we’re very lucky to be living in Zone 2 London in one of the best boroughs in the capital.

We don’t have a car so the transport links were also a big selling point; we can commute to work easily (I walk to Shoreditch on my office days) and can get into Central London by bus or overground in around 40 minutes.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

The flats were built in 1970 so we always want to give a nod to that period through the decor and the colours we choose.

Having grown up in the 70s, David found a familiarity in the mid-century furniture that would have been in his parents’ house and, while I loved that, I am known for being someone who gets bored quite easily and (as David would agree) gets his own way.

I’d say we’ve now met in a sweet spot which is clean minimalism but with interesting things like our Giuseppe Parrinello Penis Vase and plates, and bright artworks like our Studio Lenca Limone portrait.

A lot of the things in our home come from our favourite lifestyle store, Earl of East which stocks beautifully curated selections of independent brands and their own home fragrance products – I think we have a candle from there in every room of the flat!

What’s your favourite room and why?

I know David loves the bedroom for its calming effect but I mostly enjoy the living room. It holds most of our objects, plants, and artworks, and in the evening, it gets the most amazing light.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, for now. The priority when moving in was to utilise the storage so we worked with a great company, Ply Kitchen who built custom wardrobes and did our kitchen. We worked with their in-house architect to get the most out of the available room.

Our niece Rachel is a professional dancer who has recently graduated and will be moving in with us which is exciting. She’s 20 and needs to be in London for auditions. So, this will be a true test of the space.

Sure, there’ll be an adjustment period but we’re so excited to be helping her fulfil her dreams and, in a way, feel like we’re going to be parents – or just very cool ‘Guncles’ [lol].

Do you have plans to change the property?

With Rachel moving in we’ve renovated our second bedroom from a home office (since the pandemic) and dressing room back into a bedroom. We’re planning some further work and have the balcony and internal stairs left to paint – we’re going to go bold with Yes Colours.

Now I’ll no longer have access to the other bedroom to get dressed, we’ve got new custom wardrobes on order from Tylko for the wardrobe storage that I’ll need in our bedroom.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

No, we’ve had no problems *touches wood.*

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Don’t get too bogged down with how someone else has used the space or decorated.

Look at the ceiling as your floor plan to give you an idea of a room’s scope, and get yourself an architect – they don’t cost as much as you think and will really help you understand how to make best use of the space.

Don’t be afraid to invest as much as you can into the things that are long-term investments either, like flooring, wardrobes and a kitchen.

What are your plans for the future in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

I’m pretty sure that eventually we’ll end up in Glasgow near to David’s family but that won’t be for a while.

Shall we take a look around?

This article was first published on June 22, 2024.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s sister column, What I Rent, we visited Lauren May at her one-bedroom flat in Isleworth, West London. Having previously lived at home with her mum in Ealing, she decided it was time to fly the nest in 2020.

When Lauren came to buying her property just before the pandemic, she was faced with a dilemma, as she didn’t have the full deposit amount. However, she was able to borrow the shortfall from a rather unexpected donor: her boss.

This week, we’re up in Aberdeen visiting retired couple Fiona and Tim McKay, who sold their family home earlier this year and downsized into a retirement property to live mortgage-free.

The couple chose a place that was easier to maintain but didn’t compromise on space, in an effort to save time and money in their retirement.

Here’s what they had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

We are a married couple in our early 60s with two grown-up married sons, a cat and two dogs. We have been together since our teens. We met at school in Aberdeen, where we were head boy and head girl together! We both took early retirement from our busy jobs in education and medicine.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We now live in a Cala Home at the Craibstone Estate on the edge of Aberdeen. It’s a very peaceful area with lots of green spaces, yet it has excellent road, air and rail transport links very nearby.

When did you move in?

We moved into our new home in June 2024.

How much does your property cost?

Our home cost just under £550,000. Cala Homes offer a range of incentives to help people move and pay their LBTT (Land and Buildings Transaction Tax, a fee that’s paid on properties worth above a certain value in Scotland).

How much was your deposit?

We were able to reserve our home with a fee of just £1,000. On completion of the missives a couple of months later, we paid a further 2.5% of the purchase price.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, including mortgage and bills?

We are fortunate to be mortgage free, as the sale of our previous home covered the purchase price of our new home.

It’s too soon to compare the running costs here with our last property, but already the new house feels very warm, even with no heating on.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We were keen to live in a property that would be easier to maintain. We would have liked to self-build but couldn’t obtain planning permission on a suitable plot.

Instead, we started looking at nearby new build developments.

Where did you find your property?

Our previous home – which we owned – was nearby, and we first became aware of the Craibstone development in a flyer that came in the post. That led to us making an appointment to view the development, and we were extremely impressed at what we saw.

What made you choose it?

We looked at several different house styles and plots. We chose Cala’s Kennedy house layout, which best met our needs, and one was being built on a lovely plot with an open outlook to the front plus a secluded rear garden.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

As we reserved the house seven months prior to moving in, and at an early stage of the interior being constructed, we were fortunate to be able to choose floor coverings, wardrobe, vanity unit and kitchen unit colours.

We had several months to plan how we would use rooms, buy new furniture where needed, and decide where to hang paintings/place decorative items etc.

Our inspiration for design comes from reading Ideal Home since childhood, having a keen appreciation of art, and enjoying collecting interesting pieces to furnish a home. We also found show homes very interesting to visit, particularly the Kennedy at Friarsfield in Cults.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Our favourite room is the open-plan kitchen, dining and family room, which overlooks the garden and gets sun from late morning to evening.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

We feel this house has an ideal amount of space for us. We didn’t want to majorly downsize our living space, just have a house that wouldn’t need extensive maintenance, and outside space which was smaller, thus not needing lots of time or physical effort to look after it.

Do you have plans to change the property?

We paid for a few upgrades to our property, such as a silestone worktop and Amtico floor bordering.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

We had no experience of buying a brand new house before, but found the whole process and the end result to be smooth, stress-free, and exciting.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

We do see this as our long-term home, as it will be easy to maintain both inside and out. A factor looking after all the green spaces, including woodland, on the estate was a huge plus point for us.

We also picked the Kennedy style as it would enable us to live on the ground floor should mobility issues in future make climbing stairs problematic.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s What I Rent, we visited Kyle Halls at his one-bedroom flat in Battersea.

He moved to the area almost three years ago, and loves the convenience that his current lease offers him, from the state-of-the-art gym to the cinema room.

This week, we’re in Isleworth in West London having a nosy around Lauren May’s one-bedroom flat. Having previously lived at home with her mum in Ealing, she decided it was time to fly the nest in 2020.

When Lauren came to buying her property just before the pandemic, she was faced with a dilemma: she didn’t have the full deposit amount. And so, she was able to borrow the shortfall from a rather unexpected her donor, her boss.

She was able to secure her dream home, and now four years, she’s looking to sell up and move out to the suburbs.

Here’s what Lauren had to say about her property situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Lauren, I’ve lived in West London my whole life and I work as a sales manager for Aussie Removals, London’s leading removal firm.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

My Property is in Isleworth, TW7. It’s a lovely peaceful area compared to Ealing Broadway which is where I grew up. 

You can walk 30 minutes from my flat, along the river into Richmond, where I frequently visit and enjoy dinner on the river in summer, or frosty walks in Richmond Park in Winter.

When did you move in?

I completed on January 31, 2020 and moved in in March 2020.

How much does your property cost?

£320,000 for a one-bedroom ground floor flat with some outdoor space and a designated parking bay.

How much was your deposit?

I paid a 5% deposit which was £16,000. This was the minimum deposit required under the Government’s Help to Buy scheme.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

My monthly cost has recently increased from £1,100 to £1,400 as my five-year mortgage term is up!

How did you save up for your deposit?

I had been saving up for a long time since my early twenties, but I ended up spending that on travelling and a car, so started again in my mid-twenties by putting away a set amount monthly.

I was lucky enough to borrow the shortfall of my deposit, which was £6,000, needed from my boss. It wasn’t through a workplace scheme, but a personal loan. Anthony has helped staff out before and it has been a great help to many employees here. The company has been very generous to their employees in times of need and it’s a great place to work.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

I was really nervous about doing this alone but I contacted Capricorn Finance Consultancy and my contact there explained the process super clearly and gave me confidence in the product I was choosing.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

The mortgage term I took was 35 years, a five-year fixed term at 1.9% which has sadly just finished and increased to 4.69%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I was living with my mum in Ealing, in a house she owned. My sister moved to Worthing and my brother moved to Canada so it was time for me to fly the nest!

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

The cost of renting a one-bedroom flat in Ealing or Isleworth was over £1,400 in rent for a decent property, not to mention the bills on top of that. I was really eager to gain some independence and put my mark on a property, and by buying you have more freedom over rentals to design and decorate how you please.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

I found this property through Dexters and it was one of the most reasonably priced properties for New Builds in the West London area. 

Other new builds were starting at a minimum of £500,000 and even through the help to buy scheme that was out of my budget. I wanted a property that was clean and fresh as I didn’t want the hassle of having to do any work to do it myself. 

How have you made the property feel like home? / What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style? 

The garden looked a bit miserable when I moved in, so I sourced some faux grass rugs and fence hedges and painted the outside to give it a greener feel. I like to think I am a minimalist but if you look inside my cupboards, they are bursting full of belongings and clothes!   

What’s your favourite room and why?

My kitchen/living room is my favourite room. I love cooking and trying new cuisines, currently switching between Mexican and Lebanese. My partner has his DJ decks out so we tend to have a lot of fun dancing and listening to music we love.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

I met my partner after purchasing the property so over time since he has moved in, we’ve found the property to be slightly too small as we’ve grown with our treasured possessions. I recently used Aussie’s storage facility which is great for long-term storage.

Do you have plans to change the property?

Nope, we are currently in the process of selling the flat. There wouldn’t be much more to change unless it was swapping out old furniture to give it a brand-new style.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Absolutely none! You hear of horror stories with new builds but I researched the developers before purchasing and was confident that there would be no issues. The after-care team in regards to the snagging list was really responsive.

What do you want people to know about buying a home? 

Do your research and get your removal company booked in advance. I deal with customers on a daily basis who have left it to the last minute and it causes an immense amount of stress. 

Make sure you get your moving checklist in place, and if you need to store your belongings, don’t pay for self-storage access if you don’t have to. Lastly, if you’re leaving a rental make sure you line up excellent cleaners to safeguard your deposit.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

We are currently looking for a larger property in Guildford or Camberley. You get so much more for your money outside of London and if it means an extra 30 minutes of driving each way, I’m happy to compromise on that! 

Plus I love outdoor walks and want more options of discovering woodland and country paths.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we visited Natalie Brown and her family at their three-bedroom house in Shoreham-by-Sea.

Having previously been cramped into a two-bedroom flat in Hove, East Sussex with their four children, she and her husband Rob decided to upsize – and now can’t imagine themselves ever living anywhere else.

This week, we’re back by the seaside in Devon, having a poke around Emily Hadley and her husband Kevin’s five-bedroom home.

The couple stuck to the mantra of ‘buying the worst house on the best street,’ transforming it beyond recognition since they moved in in 2015 with bright colours, wall prints, and quirky furnishings galore.

Here’s what Emily had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a primary school teacher turned art gallery founder. The art gallery is predominantly online but also in my home. I am married to Kevin (a teacher and artist), and we have two teenage children and a cavapoo (a cross between a cavalier King Charles spaniel and a poodle).

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We are in Preston, Paignton, in Torbay, Devon. The house is a 10-minute walk to our closest beach in one direction and a five-minute walk to woods and a country park in the other.

Torbay (which is made up of three towns, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham) is classed as a deprived area and quite run down in places, but we like how rough around the edges it is.

More affluent towns like Totnes and Dartmouth are around only a 15-20 minute drive away. We would like more culture and diversity here but love being by the sea and how easy it is to get to the nearest city (which is Exeter) then up the motorway to Bristol and beyond. The schools around here are also good, which is one of the reasons we chose to bring our children up in the area.

When did you move in?

August 2015.

How much did your property cost?

£325,000.

How much was your deposit?

£100,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

£2,500.

How did you save up for your deposit?

This was our third property. We started with a £10,000 deposit for our first home in 2005 which was made up of a small inheritance and savings. We have renovated each of our homes to add value and bolster our equity.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

We were both teachers, and this is looked upon favourably. However, when we remortgaged recently, we were unable to include my salary as I was on a fixed-term contract, which could not be counted. This meant we had to stay with our existing mortgage provider, who thankfully had competitive rates.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We’re currently on a two-year tracker. The term is 30 years!

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

We owned and lived in a 1930s semi-detached house just up the road from where we are now.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We had seen from our parents that buying property is the most prudent way to invest, and were keen to buy somewhere to make it our own.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

My sister agreed to buy our previous home, so I was looking online regularly and had set up searches on numerous online property sites.

After walking past this house for years on the school run, I jumped at the chance to look around it when I was notified it had gone on the market.

We were the second through the door to view it, and having seen many other properties that weren’t right for one reason or another, we knew straight away that this had real potential and could be a beautiful family home.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

The property was a partial repossession and needed a lot of work! We have replaced all four bathrooms and the kitchen including creating a utility room and a pantry out of a previously unused space.

We installed a wood burner, reconfigured parts of the upstairs space and landscaped the garden. We have also stripped the floorboards and redecorated the entire house.

What’s your favourite room and why?

My favourite room is the playroom which we now use as a gallery space! It has a beautiful original fireplace and bespoke cabinetry that we designed and built ourselves, plus it’s full of special things and lots of art.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

We probably have too much! It is a large five-bedroom property and we’re a family of four.

Having said that, I could do with more storage for the paintings I showcase as part of my art business and my husband is a painter and would like a purpose-built studio to work in.

Do you have plans to change the property?

We may redecorate a few areas soon, especially our study, which has become a dumping ground and needs some more built-in storage.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Not really, it is an old property (late Edwardian) so we have some issues with the chimney stacks causing some dampness.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Buy the worst house on the best street and always look to add value in some way!

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Our youngest child has two years left in sixth form and we are looking at downsizing and potentially moving to a different location after that.

We would like to cut down our mortgage payments and live more comfortably. The only striking point is that I run my business from the house!

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we visited 77-year-old Gill Ross in Bagshot, Surrey. Having sold her home in South London back in 2021, she decided to join a flourishing retirement community – and has since made countless friends.

This week, we’re in West Sussex having a nosy around Natalie Brown and family’s three-bedroom house in Shoreham-by-Sea.

Having previously been cramped into a two-bedroom flat in Hove, East Sussex with their four children, Natalie and her husband Rob decided to upsize – and love their new home so much that they can’t imagine themselves ever living anywhere else.

Here’s what Natalie had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Natalie, and I’m 44 years old. I’m a freelance journalist, author and parenting blogger and I share the ups and downs of life as a mum of four at Confessions of a Crummy Mummy. I live with my husband Rob, 46, and our children Bluebell, 13, Max, nine, Marigold, seven, and Violet, four.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

It’s on the coast road in Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, opposite the entrance to Shoreham Harbour. It’s a busy and buzzing area with boats coming in and out, a Grade II listed lighthouse, an RNLI lifeboat station and a sauna in a converted horsebox on the beach in front of our house.

There’s lots of development and regeneration going on locally with former industrial sites being converted into houses and flats, giving the area a really positive and family-friendly vibe.

When did you move in?

July 2024 – right at the start of the school holidays, which in hindsight was a bad idea!

How much does your property cost?

£410,000.

How much was your deposit?

£90,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

£3,000.

How did you save up for your deposit?

Our deposit was made up of equity from our previous property, a flat five minutes up the road in Hove, East Sussex.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Rob and I are both self-employed freelancers with no fixed payday each month, and having four dependents didn’t help, either.

Getting a mortgage from a high street bank wasn’t an option for us – we had to go to a specialist lender who understood our situation and the vagaries of things like my book royalties.

It was a stressful process but with the help of a brilliant independent financial advisor we got there in the end.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

It’s a 24-year mortgage fixed for five years at 6.3%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

We owned a two-bedroom, fourth-floor flat on the sea front in Hove, East Sussex, which used to be my grandmother’s. We bought it from the family following her death in 2018 and loved the location, but with a growing family of our own and four kids in one bedroom, we’d well and truly outgrown the space.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

Having worked so hard to get on the property ladder for the first time in 2018 we intend to stay on it – the house is an investment for us and our family’s future.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Property prices in Hove are crazy so we knew we’d have to move a bit further up the coast in order to afford a house with a garden. At the same time, we wanted to keep the kids in the same schools, so our search area was quite specific.

I saw the house on Rightmove in summer 2023 and it caught my eye because of the Victorian architecture, the seafront location and the lovely garden, but it was out of our price range. I kept my eye on it and over the next few months the price was reduced – twice.

Although it was still over our maximum budget, I arranged to go and see it while Rob was working. It was the first house we’d actually booked to view and as soon as I walked up the front path I knew it was ‘The One’ for us.

We arranged a second viewing so Rob could see it and within a week we’d put our flat on the market.

Luckily the house was still available when we had an acceptable offer on our flat three months later, and after a bit of negotiation, our offer of £5,000 under the asking price was accepted.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

The house is a traditional late Victorian terrace in terms of style and layout. Although many original period features remain, such as doors and skirting boards, others have been taken out, such as fireplaces and coving. We plan to put these back with a modern twist and maximise the period charm.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The garden – it’s the most-used room in the house!

We didn’t have any private outside space before so having a garden for the first time for the kids to play in, a patio to sit together and eat meals on, and a washing line to dry the laundry on (because with four kids the washing is never ending!) has been priceless.

We can also see the lighthouse from the back garden which is really special.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Not yet! Although the house is bigger than our old flat and also has the added extra space of the garden, we are currently using the dining room as a bedroom until we can add extra bedrooms in the loft.

The kitchen is long and thin in typical Victorian style and there isn’t currently enough room to sit down inside and eat as a family of six.

Do you have plans to change the property?

Yes – the whole house needs updating in one way or another. We plan to convert the loft into two bedrooms, create a four-bedroom house, and extend the kitchen into the garden to create an open-plan kitchen/diner.

We also have big plans for the garden, including a home office and shed at the back which Rob is calling the ‘shoffice’ and plans to build himself. There’s also quite a lot of woodchip wallpaper that I’ll enjoy peeling off!

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

The house is 130 years old so we’re inevitably going to run into issues. Nothing is straight, for example, and for some reason, plug sockets were only installed on one side of the house.

Being on the coast also brings problems in terms of damp, exposure to wind, and salt, which we know from experience wreaks havoc on things like window fittings.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

If your circumstances aren’t straightforward like us it’s well worth seeking the help of an independent financial advisor who knows the market, can find you the best deal and hold your hand through the mortgage application process.

They can also ensure you’re adequately covered in terms of life insurance when you’ve got your new mortgage too. I’d also recommend putting your current property on the market before finding ‘The One’ you want to move to – we did it the wrong way round which added to the stress because we’d found the house we wanted to buy, but hadn’t sold our flat yet.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Rob has jokingly declared he’s never moving again because the process was such a rollercoaster – mainly due to a difficult chain – and I’m inclined to agree. We don’t plan to move again for a very long time, and when the children have grown up and moved out our little house by the sea will be more than big enough for the two of us.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s sister column, What I Rent, we visited 25-year-old Tia Costell at her two-bedroom flat in Acton, West London, which she pays £1,250 per month for.

This week, we’ve escaped the city for the home counties to explore 77-year-old Gill Ross’s flat in Bagshot, Surrey.

Having sold her home in South London back in 2021, she decided to join a flourishing retirement community – and has since made countless friends.

Here’s what she had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m 77 years old and live in Bagshot. I moved from South London and now live in a light and spacious apartment in a leafy part of Surrey with many local activities and walks and good transport connections.

I had some interesting jobs throughout my working career. I spent 10 years working for the United Nations in Paris and Rome before returning to the UK to work in the City of London in banking where my knowledge of French and Italian proved to be very useful.

Before retiring I was a bookseller at Waterstones, a wonderful job which eased me into retirement after many years of challenging work overseas and in the UK.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

Wessex Lodge, which is a Churchill Living property in Bagshot, Surrey. I think it’s a great place to live – I’m near the train station, so I can easily see my friends and family, and Bagshot Park is just across the road, so I have lovely views.

I can also stay active by walking with friends in the surrounding forests and heathland when it’s nice outside. It’s perfect to be close to the countryside and to amenities like the town centre too.

When did you move in?

April 2021.

How much did your property cost?

£484,950.

How much was your deposit?

N/A as no mortgage.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

I pay a flat cost of around £550 per month that includes almost everything, such as heating, hot water, and maintenance. This means I have a very uncomplicated, structured life.

When it comes to finances, I like to know what’s going in and coming out, so my bills being covered gives me peace of mind. We also have a lodge manager called Alex, and he’s our go-to for any maintenance issues, like the hot water not working or a lightbulb going out.

Where did you live before this?

I owned a house in Beckenham in South London.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

I knew I wanted the security of buying a Churchill property because of all the benefits it comes with. I used their specialist downsizing advice service because I didn’t want the stress anymore of maintaining an entire house.

Somebody asked me about my ideal retirement, and I said I’d pay somebody money to do the boring stuff so I could go out and have fun. That’s exactly what life is like here.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Being a woman of my age you tend to chat with friends about their plans for later life, some of them move in with family, some of them stay in their homes, and some of them (like me!) decide to move into retirement communities.

I love having company and being part of a community of like-minded people, so I knew this was the right decision for me. We have regular activities, and you can be as involved as you like, so it means I can stay social.

We’re like an extended family. I have made great friends here with similar interests and a similar sense of humour. We’ve been together a couple of years now and have learned each other’s little foibles and quirks – and we can tease each other. It’s a wonderful community.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Sometimes there will be general maintenance issues that come with any home, like a fuse or a lightbulb blowing, but we have a lodge manager who can help sort out anything like that.

The maintenance is already covered by my payments, which means it’s much less stressful than if I was living in a house on my own.

What do you want people to know about buying a property for retirement?

Don’t leave it too late. Moving into an apartment when you’re fit and well means you can enjoy it for quite a few years.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

I plan to stay at Wessex Lodge for as long as I can! I have a great group of friends here, and I’m free to come and go and do what I want, when I want, without any stress.

It’s given me time to invest in doing what I love – from walking with friends to going out and listening to jazz or going to my wine appreciation class. Retirement is allowing me to pursue my passions.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we took a look back at some of our favourite What I Own and What I Rent columns over the years – from houseboats to teeny tiny apartments, we’ve certainly covered extensive ground.

This week, we’re by the seaside, in nearby Brighton in East Sussex, chatting to 36-year-old Biro Florin who bought his £1 million townhouse outright in 2023.

Here’s what he had to say about his property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Biro, and I’m 36 years old. I’m an entrepreneur, investor and podcast host of Misfit Founders, which shares the stories of small, start up business owners.

I’m originally from Romania, and previously Iived in London, before settling in Brighton.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I live in Brighton, in the Preston Park neighbourhood, a beautiful and quiet residential area about a 20 minute walk from the centre of town.

Having previously lived in the centre of Brighton and before that London, it’s a welcome peaceful change. It might be my age!

When did you move in?

April 2023.

How much does your property cost?

£1,000,000.

How much was your deposit?

We didn’t have a deposit, we paid cash in full.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

About £1,500 in bills, with no mortgage.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We paid in full because a few months before, my partner and I sold our B2B tech business.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

The fact that we had no mortgage process and no chain was the reason we were able to get this house as there were six other interested buyers.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I was renting with my partner and our Jack Russell in a three-bedroom terraced in Brighton city centre.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

We’ve always dreamed of buying our own home, ever since we started our business, and this became possible once we sold it.

In our rented place we couldn’t do much due to our contract, but in our own home we got a second puppy, and we were able to decorate and paint how we needed without restrictions.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We had a property search agent who put together several viewings in one day for us.

We were split between this and another £1,000,000 property, but we chose this one because of the location closer to the city and the furnishings – this property was updated in 2018 by the previous owners who were interior decorators by trade, so the house looks stylish with high-end finishes.

How have you made the property feel like home?

We work from home and don’t have any kids. Our vision for the property was to have the first floor three bedrooms be functional rooms, so we have an office, podcast studio and a cinema room on the first floor with the bedroom occupying the second floor.

I started the podcast to help diverse entrepreneurs from different backgrounds get into the business world and not feel so alone. Growing up in Romania, I’m not from a privileged background myself, so I want to help others who are coming into the business world change their lives, and see that the success that I have is possible. 

The house is big, so we have a lot of space where we can be during the day to work, including a bright and extended kitchen.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

The prior owners had a stylish touch on the property so we made sure to fit in furniture and appliances that fit the look and feel of the property.

What’s your favourite room and why?

My favourite room is my podcast studio and office which is built in the biggest bedroom of the house, a 4mx4m space.

This is where I spend most of my working day and the room setup gives me inspiration and helps with my focus and creativity. I’m obsessed with quality cameras and filming equipment, so the cameras are ones really high end, the same as those that Netflix would use for filming. 

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, we wanted a big four-bedroom Victorian house where we could spend our time and have loads of space for both working as well as socialising.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No, not for the next 10 years at least.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

No, thanks to the property being fully modernised and extended in 2018, it was handed over in pristine condition.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

For us a property search agent with a lot of connections was of massive help, not just because they helped us find the perfect property but because they connected us with trustworthy suppliers, solicitors, assessors and so on.

Being first-time buyers, it helped to have someone who understands the landscape and could guide us the right way.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long term?

We’re both in our mid-30s, so we’ll be here until at least our late 40s and we may decide at that point to move to a bigger countryside property or go abroad.

Currently, as working professionals, we’re very happy with the property and location but as we grow old I’m sure our wants will change.

Let’s see the rest of the property, shall we?

This article was first published on April 20 2024.

It’s the weekend – so naturally, it’s time to chat all things property.

While our weekly property series What I Rent/What I Own is taking a short break this week, we thought we’d take the opportunity to look back at a few of our favourites over the years.

From houseboats to teeny tiny apartments, we’ve certainly covered extensive ground when it comes to nosying around various rented and mortgaged properties.

So, without further ado, here’s a round-up of (just a few) stand-out columns from the What I Rent/What I Own Hall of Fame.

What I Rent: Alaina, $650 a month for an 80 sq ft studio apartment in Manhattan, New York

In October 2022, we went across the pond to the US – midtown in New York City, to be specific.

Here, Alaina, who works at a fashion agency, rents a studio apartment that has just 80 sq ft of space.

She moved to the city in 2021 for work, having previously lived in Los Angeles and hailing from St Louis, Missouri.

‘I actually found this apartment on Street Easy, which is a shock for most because it’s one of the more expensive apartment apps,’ she said at the time.

‘I wanted to give it a try to have more freedom to travel and explore New York City as a young 20-something year old.’

What I Rent: Tide, £750 a month for a one-bedroom flat in Leith, Scotland

In August 2022, we featured Tide at her £750 one-bedroom flat up in Leith in Edinburgh, Scotland.

She’d moved to the city six months prior on a whim, and hoped that her colourful interior design choices came together as ‘cute and eclectic.’ We certainly thought – and still think! – so anyway.

‘My landlord is super accommodating and supportive of me making this place a home – so no problems there,’ Tide said of her experience. ‘I’ve asked if I can drill holes to put decor up and he’s all for it… as long as it’s done respectfully, of course.’

Before she moved, she’d been paying £1,000 per month for a studio flat in London, and so was relishing the newfound space.

‘Coming from London where I paid bank for a compact studio, I feel almost overwhelmed (in a good way) with having more than one room,’ she noted.

‘I have to remind myself that I don’t have to be cooped up in my bedroom and that I actually have a whole other room I can live in. Crazy, huh?’

What I Own: We bought a houseboat for £125,000 and joined a mooring community in Bermondsey

It wasn’t too long ago, but our visit to Rachael and Euan’s houseboat in London back in April was joyous.

They originally bought it for £125,000, and when we visited them, they were stationed in Bermondsey, South London, on a mooring that houses 40 other boats.

‘It felt like home pretty much straight away; we haven’t had to do much to it beyond painting the walls and building my studio,’ Rachael noted.

‘Having a space to sit outside and grow plants in the summer is also what feels like home to me.

‘I couldn’t imagine not living on the water, and we are very happy with the barge, so I can see us staying for the long term.’

What I Own: ‘We live on a £5million Cheshire farm and didn’t need a deposit’

Then, in November 2023, we met Mike – who had overseen the builds of four sustainable, carbon-neutral residential homes in Cheshire, which he found listed for sale in Horse and Hound magazine.

Mike was living on-site in one of these properties – which are designed to be as energy-efficient as possible – after securing a £1.45m development finance loan in 2020 and completing the build, and he sold the other three for £1.5m each.

He said: ‘As we developed the property, no deposit was required. We paid for the development of the house using the profits from building and selling other projects that we have built. Together – the mortgage lender – provided £1.45m worth of development finance, which we put towards the development of the site.

‘We set out to build something “exclusive by design, inclusive by nature” as we like to say. We want people to understand that building sustainably doesn’t mean you have to give up on luxury.

‘We are both inspired by nature and so the house was designed to fit in with the natural world. The whole place feels like home.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s sister column, What I Rent, we visited 2022 Great British Bake Off finalist Sandro Farmhouse’s flat in Stratford, East London, which has more ovens than bedrooms.

This week, we’re in Tooting, South London, having a nosy around Anna and Paul Moynihan’s £590,000 three-bedroom home. Since buying it five years ago, they’ve transformed it into a family space to share with their two young children – and have found a strong local community in the process.

Here’s what Anna had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Anna Moynihan, and together with my husband Paul, I’m a co-founder of TaskHer, an online platform that connects homeowners with tradeswomen in a few clicks.

The idea for it came to me while organising renovation work at our house. Every time I booked a tradesperson for a job or a quote, I found that they would instinctively speak to my husband Paul about what needed to be done, despite the fact that I had made the booking! This gender bias led us to realise how underrepresented women are in the trades – which are 96% male in the UK.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?     

We are based in Tooting, South West London. We love the local area – it’s diverse and friendly. We have a strong network of friends and also work in a co-working space about ten minutes from our house.

There’s loads of amazing food in Tooting too, and with a strong Sri Lankan and Pakistani population, we are lucky to have some of the best South Asian food in London. 

When did you move in? 

We moved in early 2019.

How much did your property cost?

We bought the property in 2019 for £590,000. Now, according to Zoopla, it’s worth somewhere around £700,000.

How much was your deposit?

We paid around £120,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

Our mortgage and bills come to about £2,100 a month. 

How did you save up for your deposit?

I had a flat which I sold, and Paul had a house that he sold.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

We used a great mortgage advisor who was able to find us a really good deal. I’m a bit older than Paul so I dragged down how many years our mortgage could be, but on the whole, it was pretty smooth sailing.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)? 

We made a very good decision without realising it when we locked into a mortgage rate of 1.44% for five years back in 2021. We were thinking about starting TaskHer and wanted to make sure we had a hold of what our spending would look like and it really paid off.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I owned a flat with my ex in Tottenham, North London, which we bought with a deposit given to me by my grandmother in her inheritance. Paul was living in Reading alone in his family home that he owned outright.

What made you want to buy rather than rent?

The stability of knowing it’s yours for the long haul if you want it, and the fact that I was pregnant with our first child when we moved in! We were in an incredibly fortunate situation as we had the money for a deposit, so we decided to use it as wisely as we could.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We found it on Rightmove, although it was also advertised with Purplebricks. The owners showed us around and we dealt directly with them throughout the purchase process, which was amazing and made things so much easier than having to go through an agent and wait for replies.

We really liked the feel of the house, the period features, the fairly decent-sized garden and the fact we knew we could make some improvements. The location worked really well for us at the time work-wise, and it was close to a tube, an overland station and loads of restaurants and coffee shops.

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We’ve put in a new kitchen and bathroom which has modernised things – I think the kitchen was originally from the 90s and didn’t have a dishwasher. We put in carpet upstairs where there was laminate to make it feel more homely, and have painted every room.

I love Scandinavian styles mixed with bold colours and prints, but it’s important that you can actually live in the space, especially with two young kids.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Probably the living room. It was one of the first rooms we tackled and I spent a lot of time in it during Covid with a tiny baby!

It’s naturally quite dark in there as it doesn’t get much light in the day, so we painted the walls, doors and woodwork a deep blue and fully embraced it. I love it at Christmas time when we decorate the fireplace with a wreath – it’s really cosy.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Not for much longer! We have two small kids who are getting bigger and taking up more space. Our third bedroom is pretty small and works well for a nursery but not for an older child. We make it work, and for London, we are still very fortunate with the space we have.

Do you have plans to change the property?

We actually drew up plans and got planning permission to add a rear extension and loft conversion, but then didn’t go through with it as the cost implications ended up being so huge.

With the rise in trade materials, we worked out we would probably go over the ceiling price in our area meaning if we did sell we wouldn’t make our money back, and the plan has always been to move when the kids get bigger.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

The house is 120 years old, so there’s been a few things. We have the original sash windows which are beautiful but not great in the winter when it comes to fuel economy.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

That it’s lovely to have, but if you’re renting you’re not failing in any way. I know people who’ve rented long-term and have really benefitted and enjoyed the flexibility. Also, even if you’re not getting a survey done, make sure you always get an up-to-date gas and electrical safety certificate from the previous owner.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Our daughter is starting school locally in September so we will be in Tooting for a while yet I’d imagine. As startup founders, we aren’t currently in the financial position to upsize our house, but it will come. Eventually, we’d love to have some more space!

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we visited 22-year-old Pari Pande, who purchased her £592,750 two-bedroom flat in East London a few months ago.

This week, we’re up in Scotland having a nosy around 25-year-old Liv Conlon’s Glasgow property. Having bought her first home out in Marbella when she was 18, in 2022 she decided to use the money from her two businesses to invest in another.

Now, she uses her Glasgow bolthole as a retreat, flying back every few months to spend time there with her one-year-old son, Cash.

Here’s what she had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based? 

I’m 25 years old and I live in Marbella. I moved out there when I was 18 years old. I run two companies remotely, a Home Staging company, ThePropertyStagers, that operates nationwide furnishing over 400 properties per year.

I manage my team from my laptop abroad. I also coach women to launch staging businesses through my company, StagerBoss. We’ve coached over 35,000 women through our online programmes, events and retreats, and operate internationally.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area? 

The south side of Glasgow. My area is very leafy with lots of cute eateries nearby. I love it as it’s trendy but not snobby.

I’m the youngest person in my block easily by 30 years, which I love as I’m all about a quiet night in and an early bedtime.

When did you move in? 

This is my second home, which I bought in May 2022 and had fully renovated by August 2022. I managed the property renovation remotely which was challenging but I do it every day so it comes naturally to me.

How much does your property cost? 

£158,000, which was £3,000 over the asking price. I spent £40,000 refurbishing it and have recently had it valued at around £210,000.

How much was your deposit? 

£40,000.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills? 

£800 per month (£441.56 mortgage, £350 bills).

How did you save up for your deposit? 

Earnings from my business – I had money sitting in my account which was doing nothing and wanted to invest it.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging? 

I purchased my first property at 18 years old so I had already been through the process and I knew what to expect. That had been a lot more challenging as I had very little track record with a credit score or income.

On my second time around, securing a UK mortgage wasn’t difficult as I had a more than seven-year track record with my business, I’d built a good credit rating and I had an amazing mortgage advisor who shopped the market for me. Also because I was only 23, I qualified for a long mortgage.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)? 

35-year mortgage, 2.22% fixed rate for five years.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family? 

This is a second home for me, so I only spend a few days every few months here. My full-time residence is the villa I own in Spain. I live there with my son, and my mum has recently moved in with me.

What made you want to buy rather than rent? 

I wanted to stamp my own personality and design flair on the property. I view it as an investment in my and my son’s future. Instead of saving each month, in 30 years I’ll have property I can pass to him.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it? 

Rightmove. I never even viewed it in person as I was in Spain, so I purchased it solely from the images. I loved the area, and I could see the opportunity to develop it.

How have you made the property feel like home? 

I’ve completely renovated the property, replacing everything. The kitchen was previously separate from the living space, so I knocked down the wall into the living room and made it an open-plan living/kitchen area.

I’ve also fitted a new kitchen, media wall, and a new bathroom, and I’ve re-plastered, re-carpeted and decorated the whole space.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style? 

There was no pre-planned decor idea, I just wanted to create a home with all the things I love. My style is luxe art-deco. Every wall is painted in a dark teal/blue, and I’ve incorporated rich velvets and lots of mirrored furniture and gold.

The kitchen is a traditional cashmere door with gold handles. In both the primary bedroom and bathroom, I opted for pink wallpaper with green palms which definitely adds a Hollywood glamour feel, like walking into the Beverly Hills Hotel.

What’s your favourite room and why? 

My favourite room is the living space. I love the open-plan style where I can be making dinner or a cocktail and my family can be relaxing on the sofa. I also love the built-in fireplace and the cosiness of the space.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Yes, as it’s a second home that I spend a few days in every few months, there is more than enough space. However, I would love an extra bathroom as it only has one.

Do you have plans to change the property? 

I renovated everything upfront, but I didn’t replace all the radiators and would like to do so.

I’m sure over the coming years I’ll make a few changes as my tastes change, or when my very cream rugs are destroyed! When I designed the property, I hadn’t had my son, so I didn’t make it baby-friendly in some colour choices.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

No, but there were a few leakage issues with the public carports (which are now sorted).

What do you want people to know about buying a home? 

It can feel like a lengthy process when applying for a mortgage and waiting for it to complete, but it’s worth the wait.

My home is one of my most valued assets and I take pleasure in it every single day having it exactly as I want it. The security of owning a home is priceless.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term? 

My current plan is to keep my apartment in Glasgow for 35+ years and pass it to my son as his inheritance. I love it, it’s my little bolthole and an investment – win-win!

My villa in Spain is currently under renovation, and I plan to either live in this long term or there may be opportunities to sell it for a profit and buy another development project. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we were in Nottingham visiting 28-year-old Emily Smith who, together with her husband, bought a new-build property during the pandemic. Four years later, she’s transformed it into a colourful haven with velvet sofas and wall prints galore.

Now, we’re back in the Big Smoke visiting 22-year-old Pari Pande, who purchased her £592,750 two-bedroom flat in East London a few months ago.

After starting up her own educational YouTube channel as a student, she’s now moved into investment banking in the city, which allowed her to save up to fund her own place.

Here’s what she had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

I’m Pari, I’m 22 and I was born in Nottingham. I lived there until I went to university to study Economics, then I moved to London last July to start my first job at an investment bank in the City.

I also used to make academic content on YouTube, on my channel ‘Life of Pari’ – this took a break while I was busy at university, but the plan was, once I moved into my own flat, I would start filming again. I also tutor GCSE and A-Level subjects online. I find it really rewarding to teach and guide young people.

When I first moved to London, I rented a room in Ilford, but I recently purchased my very first home – a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at Riverscape, in the Royal Docks. I’m usually in the office five days a week, which is why I wanted a well-connected home with easy transport links.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I moved to Riverscape this March. It’s in East London’s Royal Docks, located by the riverside and close to West Silvertown and Pontoon Dock DLR stations.

This location is great – it’s super close to central London, with great connectivity and a nice sense of community. Safety has always been a key factor for me, and my family.

Before now I never felt safe walking alone in the dark, so I used to get Ubers everywhere – even between the tube station and home when I was renting in Ilford.

Since living here, I feel safe being on my own, even walking home in the evenings, because there are always people around. There’s also always the option to call the concierge/security on-site, which is a great sense of comfort.

The atmosphere and local area are amazing – nothing like ‘typical London.’ There’s so much greenery and no hustle-and-bustle.

You get a genuine community feeling, and people are so friendly. It reminded me of up North, where you can talk to anyone and everyone while just crossing the street! I haven’t seen or experienced this anywhere else in London.

When did you move in?

March 2024.

How much did your property cost?

£592,750.

How much was your deposit?

It was 50% of the value of the property – £296,375.

What’s the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

My mortgage is around £1,300 per month, and my bills come to £405 p/m (£205 council tax, £100 electricity, £50 WiFi, £50 water).

How did you save up for your deposit?

While I was at university, along with YouTube, I also had my own tutoring business for about four years, which contributed significantly towards my savings. I only touched these when necessary, to help my deposit fund grow steadily over time.

Later on, I also saved about 60-70% of my salary from work each month. For any remaining balances, my parents kindly helped me.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Understanding the financial landscape was crucial in making informed decisions about my mortgage options.

A large deposit would mean that I could borrow less and secure a lower interest rate. Realising this, the “Bank of Mum and Dad” pitched in. Their support enabled me to place a bigger deposit on my first home and allowed me to access some of the best first-time buyer mortgage deals available. The result was lower monthly repayments, making my financial commitment more manageable.

By combining my savings with parental support and making informed mortgage decisions, I successfully transitioned from renting to owning my own home quickly, ensuring lower monthly repayments and financial stability.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

It’s a 27-year loan on a two-year fixed rate of 4.17%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Before moving to Riverscape, I rented a room in Ilford, East London. Prior to this, I lived with my parents and dog in Nottingham, and later went to university in Warwick.

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

I chose to rent in Ilford because I had to be relatively close to the City for work, but given the current high prices to rent in relatively central London, I thought I might as well buy my own apartment if I can!

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Prior to finding this apartment, I probably had at least 150-200 flat viewings since I started looking.

I didn’t know much about different areas within London. We were advised to look at Islington initially, but after being grossly disappointed with what you get for your money there, my family and I started exploring other areas.

We then focused on Stratford, and I even reached the final stage of exchange with a flat there. However, we found out at the last minute that pets are not allowed, so it fell through (we have a family dog, Oscar, who is a Lhasa Apso and is my pride and joy.)

Within days of the Stratford flat falling through, I was relentlessly speaking with agents, in desperate search of my dream flat. Then one agent called me up in October and said, ‘Pari trust me, just have a viewing at Riverscape – they have an open house tomorrow, you will love it – I promise.’ The next day, we fell in love immediately.

Because I work long hours, location was key – I didn’t want to spend more than 40 minutes commuting every day, as I’m usually in the office from 6:45am to 5:30pm.

From my home now it takes 35 to 40 minutes (max) door to door, which is superb for London. We’ve got West Silvertown and Pontoon Docks DLRs, the 241 bus a four-minute walk away, Custom House Elizabeth Line and the Uber Boat from Royal Wharf Pier.

How have you made the property feel like home?  

When I first moved, it took a long time to find the right pieces of furniture. Every free moment I’d have, my parents and I would go to all the shopping centres near us and look for statement items to fit the Pinterest vision I had.

I’d like to think it has come along almost exactly as I had imagined! More bits and pieces need to be added in time, but for now, it does feel like a home.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

After my offer was accepted, I got busy making a Pinterest board with inspiration on how to decorate my apartment! I’m not sure how to explain my style, but I’d characterise it as elegant and chic.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The kitchen, because it’s open-plan and so it’s the hangout area whenever people are over.

It’s so nice to be able to watch telly and cook and hang out with people at the same time. I also bought some really vibey lights for night-time, and have my speakers in the kitchen. I love music, so basically everything right about the flat is in the kitchen.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

I do. I bought a two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat because I’m really close to my parents, so it means they can come and visit whenever they like and stay in the second room.

I don’t have a balcony, but with Lyle Park on the doorstep I feel surrounded by green space.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No, it’s perfect for me at the moment.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

The design of my apartment means the windows don’t actually open – it has a comfort cooling system, but I’m used to having radiators which are efficient.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

The first place you have an offer accepted on will likely fall through, and you’ll end up somewhere completely different to where you initially expected, but when it happens you will realise that it was because something much better was in store for you that ticks way more of your boxes!

Also, to not be closed off to some areas, or only focusing on one specific place – initially, I was looking at Stratford or Islington and never had heard of Royal Wharf, but after my Stratford flat fell through, I looked here and discovered how amazing the area is, and how beautiful each flat and each building is. So many wrongs may happen for you to find your right!

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Yes, I will be staying here for at least another five years; probably until I have a family and kids of my own (which isn’t for a long time!). But for now, as a young single professional, this area is perfect for me.

Everything I need is within arm’s length, and the community also seems to be populated with like-minded people. I wouldn’t want to leave to be honest, until I need to move from a flat to a house.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s sister column, What I Rent, we visited 23-year-old content creator Maddie Borge, who moved from Norway to start her dream life in central London five years ago.

This week, we’re in Nottingham visiting 28-year-old Emily Smith, who, together with her husband, bought a new-build property during the pandemic and, four years later, has transformed it into a colourful haven with velvet sofas and wall prints galore.

When the pair initially visited the property, they thought it was way out of their budget… until they learned about a little-known loophole that made it instantly affordable. The rest is history.

Here’s what she had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

I’m 28, and live in Nottingham with my husband Jake. I work part-time as an NHS medical physicist in X-ray, and spend the rest of my week creating social media content for my Instagram page @coloursofnumberone – amongst a few other freelance projects. I love doing a little bit of everything!

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

I live on a new-build estate in a lovely suburb of Nottingham – the location is perfect for me. I love that I have easy access to the city centre, as well as more local amenities. 

When did you move in?

We moved in November 2020 (mid-lockdown!). 

How much does your property cost?

It cost us £298,000 including an NHS discount that we were very lucky to receive and made the house affordable for us at the time. 

How much was your deposit?

£15,000 – 5%. We also used the government’s help to buy equity loan which gave us a 20% top up.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Approximately £1,250.

How did you save up for your deposit?

Very gradually, ever since finishing university – saving for a home was always a priority. We opened lifetime ISAs which topped up our savings with a bonus that could be used towards a deposit.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Being first-time buyers moving into a new build, the process of buying the house was very straightforward for us. Applying for a mortgage was a fairly simple task online/over the phone.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We’re on our second two-year fixed rate – but a little nervous that the interest might jump up when it renews this year!

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Renting a similar property a little further outside the city. 

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

I’ve always wanted the security of owning a home, and the chance to really add my own stamp to my home. The freedom to decorate and DIY is great! 

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

At the time, we weren’t actively looking for a house. But it was lockdown, and there were some new houses being built in an area that we loved, so we thought we’d go and have a look around. We weren’t financially ready to buy yet, we were just nosey! 

When we saw the house, we were so impressed with the light and space. We loved it, but it was all still for a hypothetical “one day” until we found out about the NHS discount… we hurried home to do some maths, suddenly realising that the house might be something we could actually afford right away. It was the perfect place and the perfect timing. 

How have you made the property feel like home?

Since moving in we’ve decorated pretty much everywhere – colour and fun makes this place feel like home. 

We were determined to put our stamp on the house as soon as possible, moving away from the generic new build style and towards something that shows off more personality. The bright white that covered every wall when we moved in is very nearly all gone! 

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

I want our home to be a happy place that reflects who we are – this manifests as fun, bright, modern and practical decor. I aim to make it a joyful space, with as much bright colour as I can get away with while keeping it classy!  

What’s your favourite room and why?

The living room is my favourite. It looks onto the garden and is always light. It feels like it has the perfect balance of fun and sophistication, and the yellow sofa has always been my pride and joy. 

I love that whichever way I’m looking, there is something joyful to see – the gallery wall, the garden, the art TV above the cabinets I DIY-ed, or the whimsical cuckoo clock that pops out every hour and somehow, four years in, still brings me delight every time.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Absolutely. We’ve always made the most of every bit of space here. We use the second bedroom as a home office, and the third smaller room as a dressing room, so every room in the house gets used every day.

That said, we’re currently reshuffling everything to make room for a new little arrival… so let’s see how the space copes with three people!

Do you have plans to change the property?

No major changes are on the horizon, just the fun project of creating a nursery for the little one!

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

We haven’t had any issues since living here – the benefit of a house where everything’s brand new when you move in!

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Buying a home and to have a space that’s truly your own is such an incredible privilege.

My advice would be to buy something practical that has the space you want, in the area you want. No matter how plain it is when you buy it, you can add character with your decor. Don’t shy away from being a DIY beginner; owning my home has taught me so many skills I never tried before.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long term?

Ultimately, we will want to move as our family grows – but for now, this house is perfect. When we moved in, we thought of it as a five-year sort of home. We’ve been here nearly four years now.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we were in West Sussex having a nosey around 27-year-old Georgia Ray and 26-year-old Molly Carpenter’s new home. After living with their families for the past 10 years, they eventually saved enough to buy their own place.

This week, we’re back in the Big Smoke visiting Hazel Waite and Simon McNair, who, since moving into their one-bedroom Kidbrooke flat in 2021, have made it their own with leafy plants, colourful wall prints and eclectic trinkets.

Here’s what they had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

We’re Hazel Waite, a 37-year-old sales and events manager, and Simon McNair, a 37-year-old psychologist.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in a one-bedroom home in Loder House in Berkeley’s Kidbrooke Village in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

We love the area! It’s in an accessible Zone 3 location that really gives the best of both worlds. When you step into Pegler Square from the train station, you immediately feel transported from the hustle and bustle, while still having all the benefits of being located in one of London’s most sought-after boroughs.

The area is also full of parklands and lovely green, open space which makes it feel like a true oasis of calm. There’s Cator Park, and Sutcliffe Park has Green Flag status. They’ve got a lovely duck pond.

We love the sense of community that Kidbrooke Village has, as well as the close access to all the things we love and need to make everyday living convenient. Having a resident’s gym on site is great t oo.

Being so close to Blackheath is fantastic – it’s a nice local area to visit and they also have farmers markets on a Sunday which are really lovely. There are always wonderful organic food and specialist products, as well as wine bars and shops.

We quite like walking and it only takes us 45 minutes to walk into Greenwich from here, so we often go across the park, and you get a lovely view of Canary Wharf.

When did you move in?

We moved into Kidbrooke Village in 2021 and we are now celebrating three years as homeowners and members of the community.

How much was your deposit? How did you save up for it?

Our deposit was £26,000. This came mainly from our own savings and our ISA, which came to £26k. We were also fortunate to be gifted some of the deposit from family to assist us, which also helped us cover some of the legal costs.

How much does your property cost?

Our property was £460,000. 

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Our mortgage is £800 a month with a £200 service charge. In terms of bills, our Council tax is £140, water is £40, electricity and heating are £50 each. We both then also pay around £180 each per month on travel into London.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

Our mortgage is 30 years fixed rate at 1.6%.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Before moving to Kidbrooke Village we were renting together in Clapham and dealing with an unreasonable landlord.

Like many young couples, we wanted a more secure future but were unsure whether we would be able to turn our dream of owning a home into a reality.

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

We didn’t want to carry on renting and dealing with our landlord, so we decided to apply for a mortgage. From the moment we picked up the keys and walked in we felt a sense of relief.

We’ve been living here for three years now and only just painted the walls which we’ve never been able to do before in rental properties.

It’s taken us a little while to realise that we can do what we want to the home now and really make it our own. It’s been nice and freeing.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Like most people, we decided to ask Google first. Our requirement of being close and easily commutable to wider London provided a number of options, so we picked our top three and decided to visit them all in a single day.

One of the biggest factors for us was that the train station is so close by. Other properties we saw (in North London) felt like they were in the middle of nowhere.

Kidbrooke feels like a very easy commute to the centre for us and there are at least four trains an hour every morning which can get us to London Bridge in 17 minutes.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

The Berkeley team was so helpful throughout the whole buying process and explained everything so clearly to us.

Buying a home can be really stressful, but the sales agent put our mind at rest and things didn’t take too long – we were in the property within a few months.

The mortgage process was easy, and we didn’t realise how quickly the mortgage would come through. Within a matter of days, we had received it and our dream of buying became a reality.

How have you made the property feel like home?

Our previous rental was partly furnished, so we really enjoyed purchasing new furniture for our home, including a bed. We took several trips to the local IKEA which is just a short bus ride away.

We planned out where to place our furniture in our open-plan living space and have recently painted our living room and bedroom.

We’ve also included personal touches by making sure to hang pictures on the walls and buy plenty of plants too!

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We like things to feel modern, but we haven’t really looked anywhere specific for inspiration. Instead, we have decorated it with colours and objects that we like so the space feels very ‘us.’

What’s your favourite room and why?

The living space is our favourite as it’s the room that we spend most time in and is the one we have completed furnishing and decorating.

We are still working on finishing the bedroom, but once that’s done, we think that will be a strong favourite.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes! There is plenty of space for the two of us. The open floor plan of the apartment gives ample space and the room is generously sized.

Having plenty of green, open space on the doorstep and great amenity spaces also means it feels super spacious for us.

Do you have plans to change the property?

Not at present. The property works really well for us, and we’ve decided that we would like to remain here.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

There have been no issues with the property itself, no.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Buying a home is a big decision, so don’t make it quickly and think things over once, twice, three times before you commit. Once you’ve shown interest, they’ll likely keep checking in to see where you’re at – stay calm and think things over.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

Yes – we’re happy with the location and lifestyle that living at Kidbrooke Village affords so we’re looking to stay here long-term.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we visited 40-year-old James Barley and his 51-year-old partner David in East London. Since buying their two-bedroom flat in 2019, they’ve slowly made it their own – and now it’s plants and wall prints galore.

This week, we’re in West Sussex having a nosy around 27-year-old Georgia Ray and 26-year-old Molly Carpenter’s new home. After living with their families for the past 10 years, they eventually saved enough to buy their own place.

Here’s what Molly had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

We’re Georgia Ray, 27, IT Programme Manager and Molly Carpenter, 26, HR Project Manager. We’re based in Angmering, West Sussex at David Wilson Homes’ Ecclesden Park development.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

Having grown up in Cornwall, Georgia wanted to stay living near the sea, so we decided to look at Angmering. The development is within walking distance to Worthing town centre and has great transport links to Brighton and Chichester.

The South Downs is on our doorstep which is ideal for long walks, and there’s a footpath leading out from the development onto miles of open space. I love cycling and used to play football quite a lot, and Georgia’s a keen runner so we couldn’t ask for more.

When did you move in?

April 26, 2024.

How much does your property cost?

£415,000.

How much was your deposit?

£41,500.

What is the monthly cost of living here now, both mortgage and bills?

Around £2,200.

How did you save up for your deposit?

Living with family and working full-time, we have been able to save money over the last 10 years. However, we only started to seriously focus on saving for a deposit in the last two to three years.

The pandemic definitely helped us as we were both going out a lot less and we could be stricter with ourselves in terms of spending habits, which helped us cut back.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

When we started to think about moving in together, we were told there is never a perfect time to buy, so having saved for as long as we did, we just went for it.

The process was very straightforward as first-time buyers but – as expected – there was a lot of paperwork. It took a while, but our mortgage broker was fantastic and guided us through the process.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We opted for a green mortgage as we have bought a new build home, which is eligible for houses with the energy rating of A or B, with a rate of 4.55% over 40 years.

We originally opted for 5.15%, but the rate dropped during the lead up to our completion, so we were really fortunate.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

We were both living at our family homes before we moved in together. Molly was based in Crawley and Georgia was in Worthing.

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

We had both been saving for years prior as we were adamant that we wanted a place to call our own.

Being able to live at home while working full time jobs meant that it was the most sensible decision to put down a deposit and invest in a property, rather than renting and putting money in somebody else’s pocket. 

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We found the Ecclesden Park development advertised on Rightmove and fell in love with it as soon as we saw it in person. The village we are in is five minutes from the beach and the South Downs, with nature right on the doorstep.

Having previously lived in cottages with our families, we know how much time and money goes into maintaining older properties, so we were pretty set on buying a new build.

How have you made the property feel like home?

We made sure that when saving for our deposit we factored in the furniture we wanted too, which has really helped the home match our personal style straight away.

Once we reserved our plot, we were able to pick the specific kitchen and flooring we wanted, so everything works together. The house has such a cosy feel and we’re really proud to call it our own.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We both really like the rustic farmhouse style, which is quite neutral in tone, so we’ve gone for a more subtle and pared back design throughout the house. It helps to create a calm and cosy atmosphere.

What’s your favourite room and why?

For Georgia it is definitely the kitchen. She’s looking forward to hosting dinner parties and inviting people over – and with her passion for cooking and baking, she spends most her time in there!

For me, it would have to be the living room as it’s somewhere I feel I can really wind down and relax after a day at work.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

We have a three-bedroom home and the sizes of the rooms are generous.

The house is actually designed for a family, so there’s plenty of space for the two of us, and we’ve been able to create designated offices since we both mainly work from home. 

Do you have plans to change the property?

We have plans to paint the walls but nothing significant as everything is brand new.

We would like to work on the garden in the next year or two, but for now, we’re looking forward to our first summer in the house and inviting all our friends and family over. 

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

None at all.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

It was a straightforward process, however we’re not naive and understand that as first-time buyers who didn’t buy a house in a chain, there weren’t as many complications for us to overcome.

The most important thing we learnt was that we could switch mortgage rates right up until completion, so each month we would check the renewed rates to see if they had reduced and, when they did, we contacted our mortgage advisor to get switched over.

We had never heard of a green mortgage before but, after thorough research, realised that you can access preferential mortgage rates for houses with a certain energy rating, so we’d recommend for others to look into this when buying a house – particularly a new build.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long term?

I think we will be here for at least 10 years and only potentially look to move if we wanted to upsize. We both love the village so would stay in this area as it’s got everything we need on the doorstep!

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s sister column, What I Rent, we visited 29-year-old Leila Davis and her wife Fleur in leafy South East London. Since moving in July 2019, they’ve transformed a tiny flat with next to no storage into a colourful dopamine dream, affectionately referred to as Casa de Modelei.

This week, we’re over the river in East London, where 40-year-old James Barley and his 51-year-old partner David own a vibrant two-bedroom flat. Since buying the place in 2019, they’ve slowly made it their own – and now it’s plants and wall prints galore.

Here’s what James had to say about their property situation…

Tell us about yourself!

My name’s James: I’m 40, and work as a senior PR publicist and content creator focusing on men’s style, fitness and interiors.

I live in a two-bedroom ex-local authority flat with my partner, David, who’s 51 and a trainee psychotherapist in his final year. We share the flat with 9-year-old French Bulldog, Buster.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in Hackney, close to London Fields and Victoria Park. The area has everything we need on our doorstep – great coffee shops, restaurants, parks and the canal for running, as well as a cinema at the top of the road for a lazy date night option.

When did you move in?

We moved into the flat in April 2019 after viewing it in the January. As soon as I saw the place, I instantly fell in love with it – David too, but he was a lot more chilled about it and was keen to see other properties to compare.

How much does your property cost?

We bought it for £400,000 which was under our budget, allowing us to start renovations pretty much as soon as we got the keys.

How much was your deposit?

We had a deposit of £40,000 which was made up of savings and some money from an inheritance.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

A lot more than it did five years ago that’s for sure! We’ve recently renewed our fixed rate mortgage and seen bills like utilities and service charges increase. In total we’re paying £2,300 a month on mortgage and bills – £1,800 of that is our mortgage payment and £300 is on council tax and service charges. 

The only saving grace is that it’s still cheaper than renting, so we feel very lucky in that respect.

How did you save up for your deposit?

I had inheritance from when my dad passed away over 10 years ago and David had savings.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

Yes, many mortgage lenders have restrictions on ex-council flats and buildings above four stories which limited our choices, but we had a great advisor who helped us through the application process.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We are with Santander on a five-year fixed rate of 4.69%. Our previous fixed rate recently expired which has meant a huge jump in the cost of the mortgage as interest rates have gone up since we bought the flat.

We had a lot to think about when looking for a new deal, but in the end, we stuck with our current lender and prioritised certainty of housing costs over trying to guess interest rates.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Before buying the flat we rented a one-bedroom newbuild in Dalston. Although it was nice, the walls felt paper thin and rooms were quite small.

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

For us it made sense to buy while we could – from my experience landlords don’t care too much about the maintenance of their properties as long as they’re getting paid. They really do hold the monopoly over renters, especially in London where they can charge through the roof.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We found it online through an estate agent. We both decided on it being the one we’d like based on the location, space and size. I still think we’re very lucky to be living in zone 2 London in one of the best boroughs in the capital.

We don’t have a car so the transport links were also a big selling point; we can commute to work easily (I walk to Shoreditch on my office days) and can get into Central London by bus or overground in around 40 minutes.

How have you made the property feel like home? / What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

The flats were built in 1970 so we always want to give a nod to that period through decor and the colours we choose.

Having grown up in the 70s, David found a familiarity in the mid-century furniture that would have been in his parents’ house and, while I loved that, I am known for being someone who gets bored quite easily and (as David would agree) gets his own way.

I’d say we’ve now met in a sweet spot which is clean minimalism but with interesting things like our Giuseppe Parrinello Penis Vase and plates, and bright artworks like our Studio Lenca Limone portrait.

A lot of the things in our home come from our favourite lifestyle store, Earl of East which stocks beautifully curated selections of independent brands and their own home fragrance products – I think we have a candle from there in every room of the flat!

What’s your favourite room and why?

I know David loves the bedroom for its calming effect but I mostly enjoy the living room. It holds most of our objects, plants and artworks, and in the evening gets the most amazing light.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, for now. The priority when moving in was to utilise the storage so we worked with a great company, Ply Kitchen who built custom wardrobes and did our kitchen. We worked with their in-house architect to get the most out of the available room.

Our niece Rachel is a professional dancer who has recently graduated and will be moving in with us which is exciting. She’s 20 and needs to be in London for auditions. So, this will be a true test of the space.

Sure, there’ll be an adjustment period but we’re so excited to be helping her fulfil her dreams and, in a way, feel like we’re going to be parents – or just very cool ‘Guncles’ [lol].

Do you have plans to change the property?

With Rachel moving in we’ve renovated our second bedroom from a home office (since the pandemic) and dressing room back into a bedroom. We’re planning some further work and have the balcony and internal stairs left to paint – going to go bold with Yes Colours.

Now I’ll no longer have access to the other bedroom to get dressed, we’ve got new custom wardrobes on order from Tylko for the wardrobe storage that I’ll need in our bedroom.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

No, we’ve had no problems *touches wood.*

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Don’t get too bogged down with how someone else has used the space or decorated. Look at the ceiling as your floor plan to give you an idea of a room’s scope, and get yourself an architect – they don’t cost as much as you think and will really help you understand how to make best use of the space.

Don’t be afraid to invest as much as you can into the things that are long term investments either, like flooring, wardrobes and a kitchen.

What are your plans for the future in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

I’m pretty sure that eventually we’ll end up in Glasgow near to David’s family but that won’t be for a while.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we chatted to 41-year-old Dr Muhommed Patel and 49-year-old Dr George Thomas Wood, who found their forever home in the depths of Hertfordshire for their blended family.

This week, we’re in rural Wales visiting Mok O’Keeffe who, together with his husband, owns a ‘baby castle’ in the idyllic Brecon Beacons.

Here’s what Mok had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I am an LGBTQ+ historian and my PhD studies focus on the country house as a place of refuge for LGBTQ+ people. I share hidden history and my life in rural Wales on socials as @gayaristo.

History has mostly been written by straight, white men, and the history of LGBTQ+ people has largely been ignored. I am married to my husband Joe, a personal trainer, and we live with two dogs Percy and Chaucer in a baby castle in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

Our house is just outside Abergavenny, in Monmouthshire. 

My husband is Welsh. I have also spent the last twelve years visiting Wales and enjoyed summer holidays here as a child, so it was an easy decision to make it my adopted home when we moved here three years ago.

Abergavenny is a thriving town – with an amazing food festival, lots of community activities and many independent shops. The high street is alive with coffee shops, a department store, an independent bookshop and lots of bakeries.

We are in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with the dramatic Skirrid Mountain behind the house. We live in a dark sky park, so there are no street lights. This means that at night, the views of the stars are magical. My husband likes to hike and run so the surrounding countryside is perfect for him.

There is always something happening here. Last week there was a flower festival in the church, which was glorious. We live near a huge orchard which is great for dog walking and I often bump into the vicar or one of my lovely neighbours. 

Abergavenny also has its own Pride, held on the grounds of St Mary’s Priory, which shows what an inclusive place this is to live.

I have been completely welcomed into Wales and I could not be happier.

When did you move in?

June 2021.

How much does your property cost?

£965,000.

How much was your deposit?

I bought the property outright.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Even though we don’t have a mortgage, an old house does cost a lot to keep running. There is little insulation and our fuel and electricity was double-digit thousands last year! 

There is always something that needs attention – the roof of the turret is leaking and we have scaffolding up for an investigation.  New roofs are not cheap!

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

We lived in Gloucestershire just by the Kings’ country estate, Highgrove. I had a holiday home in the village and met Joe one Saturday night and we fell in love very quickly.

When we were married we moved to a bigger Georgian-style house in the village. During Covid I realised that I wanted to be at home more – my job meant I was always travelling – and Joe really wanted to be nearer to his family in Wales. So, we put our house on the market and it sold in three days!

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

I bought my first flat in London’s Kensington over 30 years ago – it was much easier for a young person to buy a property back then. I lived in New York for a few years and rented an apartment in Manhattan. I know that I am very fortunate to have been able to get on the property ladder so young.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We were actually buying another property and had moved into temporary accommodation while we waited for that to go through. 

We saw our current home online but did not want to pull out of the purchase we had agreed to make – although we loved the look of this house, we felt that we had made a promise to the vendor of the house we were buying. And this house went off the market a week later.

However, after three months, it became apparent that our purchase could not proceed, through no fault of our own. Amazingly the baby castle came back on the market that week, so my husband rang the estate agent and two days later we came to view it, with my mother and father-in-law. 

How have you made the property feel like home?

I have inherited lots of furniture and art from my parents and grandparents, so they are dotted about the house. We have photographs of family members and events like Christmas in almost every room. 

There are about two acres of garden and I grow most of the flowers we have in the house – there is nothing more special than planting a bulb in November, seeing it grow in the green house and then having it at the centre of the table at a family dinner.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

I love the arts and crafts movement, so there is lots of William Morris fabric and wallpaper. The house is from the 16th century, so our furniture and decor reflect the period in which it was built. I also draw inspiration from my study of country houses.

What’s your favourite room and why?

We have a snug off the main kitchen and I love nothing better than sitting in there with a dog or two on my lap, chatting away to my husband in the kitchen as he prepares a gorgeous vegan meal for us both.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Sometimes it feels like we have too much! But as we work from home a lot now, we have converted a bedroom into an office and are in the process of doing the same with another bedroom. 

The turret has its own kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and sitting room, so we use it as guest accommodation for when family come to stay.

Do you have plans to change the property?

The property is listed so there are quite strict rules about what we can or cannot do. We love it as it is, so have no plans to change anything structurally. 

We have a paddock which the previous owner used for horses. We don’t anticipate having any more animals, so I am planning a topiary garden with a maze!

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Old houses need constant attention, but this one was solidly built and has been very well maintained.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Think about how you actually live – don’t fall in love with the way a house is styled. You are not buying the vendor’s lifestyle, you are finding a place where you can live your own authentic life.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

I will leave this place in a box. I have found my dream home and I am quite content to live here with my husband and the dogs.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

Last week, we chatted to Jake Cohen about his new build in Manchester. Jake and his partner Sean managed to secure a spot on the property ladder before the age of 30 through a strategic loophole that, paired with their efforts to scrimp and save, granted them the keys last autumn.

This week, we’re back down south in St Albans visiting 41-year-old Dr Muhommed Patel and 49-year-old Dr George Thomas Wood, a family who found their forever home in the depths of Hertfordshire.

Here’s what Dr Muhommed had to say about the couple’s property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

We previously lived in South Africa and met while working together. At the time I was married with two children and fell in love with George.

We had a tough time expressing our love for each other as a gay couple in South Africa, so we decided to move to the UK. This resulted in my children also experiencing the societal backlash of a relationship that was not accepted.

My 16-year-old son Zayyaan moved with us straight away, and my 12-year-old daughter Zaynah initially lived with her mum and family in South Africa before recently moving to the UK.

To ensure a smooth transition into a new country, school and environment, their mother Saadiyah, is now happily living with us — and we are proof that as long as you put the welfare and happiness of your children first, it is possible to have a successful blended family. 

Having a blended family is key to the wellbeing of our children, especially Zaynah, who would not cope without her mom.

I am a digital product owner at Investec Bank, based in Gresham Street, London and George is the Chief Business Officer for St John’s Ambulance, based in Farringdon.

In 2023, George was knighted for his inspirational dedication to the charity and his volunteer work, which includes involvement with the current humanitarian aid effort in Ukraine.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We live in a detached house at Stonebond’s Radio Place development in St Albans and we were one of the first purchasers to reserve here, after falling in love with a luxurious four-bedroom property.

We had been renting just next door to the development and decided that purchasing a new home was our next step, so that we were settled for when Zaynah moved from South Africa to the UK.

Although we were keen to stay in the area as we love it, we wanted a home where we would have more space to flourish together and accommodate our incredibly busy family life.

The house is neatly positioned at the front of the site, meaning it’s not overlooked by anyone, plus we have a fabulous size garden which was important so the children could enjoy the outdoor space.

Our neighbours are amazing too, and we’ve developed a really close community at Radio Place. We’re even going on holiday to Paris in the summer with some of our neighbours to celebrate George’s 50th birthday!

The whole family loves the rural feel of St Albans with its bountiful countryside routes and surrounding footpaths. Because we have such busy lifestyles, being surrounded by nature is how we like to wind down. George and the children frequently go on long walks together, and the nearby trails mean we can walk to the local gym if needed.

George and I are also both hybrid workers and commute to London four days a week, so being close to St Albans Station is crucial. Alongside this, there are great local schools nearby and St Albans is fantastic for shopping and dining — there are over 100 restaurants for us to try!

When did you move in?

We moved into our new home in June 2022.

How much does your property cost?

The house was £875,000.

How much was your deposit?

We put down a 20% deposit.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

Our expenses are around £3,000 each month, including the mortgage and energy bills.

How did you save up for your deposit?

We sold our business and home in South Africa, and we had some savings.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

It was very challenging to gain a mortgage when we moved to the UK as we didn’t have any credit history in the UK. However, Investec look at individual circumstances and helped us secure the home.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

We gained the best rate available considering our circumstances.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Immediately prior to moving to Radio Place, we were renting at Jersey Farm in St Albans, and prior to this, we were living in South Africa. 

What made you want to buy rather than renting?

We wanted to create a stable, safe environment for our children and plan to stay in the UK in this house forever.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

On leaving our church, we fell over details for Radio Place displayed in the estate agents. We immediately arranged a viewing with Stonebond and fell in love with the property immediately.

How have you made the property feel like home? / What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

We initially worked with locally-based interior designers, Elizabeth Matthews Interiors, to create our dream vision for our new home.

Our daughter has a particular eye for detail and designed her bedroom with a ‘Shanti Chic’ design, while our son wanted a bedroom with a gaming desk and cosy bed.

Overall, we want our home to have a hotel-luxe feel, as this makes us remember our time together travelling around the world. We have also landscape-designed our garden.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The dining area is our favourite room, as it’s where we all come together as a family each day and catch up on what everyone has been doing.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Internally, the home has plenty of space for each of us to have our own privacy, and the wonderful open-plan layout downstairs is ideal for that all-important family time we see as a must.

Do you have plans to change the property?

We are planning an extension to the living area next year, and are looking forward to furnishing this new space with a new dining table that will seat 14 people to allow us to host meals with our loved ones.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

No, it has all been amazing. Radio Place is a great development — the estate is simply magnificent and we are really impressed with everyone at Stonebond, their unparalleled service and professionalism.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

It can be a daunting prospect to buy a new home, but it is definitely worth every moment. Our family has prospered enormously from living at Radio Place together.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long term?

This is our forever home and we don’t plan to ever move.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Own – Metro’s property series where we speak to homeowners about getting on the ladder.

For last week’s adjacent What I Rent, we visited Anil at his pad in North West London. Renting in a waterfront neighbourhood, Anil has connected with a community through the events hosted by his building, from cinema nights to gym sessions, all of which proved crucial in building a community after his divorce.

This week, we’re up north, having a nosy around Jake Cohen’s new build in Greater Manchester. Jake and his partner Sean managed to secure a spot on the property ladder before the age of 30 through a strategic loophole that, paired with their efforts to scrimp and save, granted them the keys last autumn.

Here’s what Jake had to say about their property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m 29 years old and I am based just outside of Manchester in a town called Horwich. I work as a Senior UX designer in corporate banking.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

My property is in Horwich and is located at the old Locomotive Works which is where steam trains had been built since 1886.

When did you move in?

October 2023.

How much does your property cost?

£267,000.

How much was your deposit?

£26,700.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both mortgage and bills?

All bills are split between myself and my partner. The total monthly mortgage payment is £1,174. All other bills and food shopping come to about £900. So split between us a month is around £987.

How did you save up for your deposit?

I have been saving money since 2017. I learned about Lifetime ISAs and got one with Moneybox in 2021 (though I wish I had learned about them earlier!), so I got an additional £4,000 bonus from the government.

I used the lockdown period as an opportunity to push my savings. I was working from home and there wasn’t much we could do, which meant I was spending less.

I also worked on some side hustles to earn a little extra cash (such as paid surveys) and made sure I was getting cashback on all my spending. On top of that, I chased high-interest savings accounts to make sure I was getting the most.

I saved up for a 10% deposit. Thankfully, Bellway provided an incentive and contributed £7,000 towards the deposit. This meant that £7,000 of the money I had saved up for a deposit could be used to buy furniture and upgrades for the house instead.

What was the process of getting a mortgage like for you? Did you find any parts challenging?

I used Moneybox Mortgages as my mortgage broker. It meant that the whole process of applying for a mortgage was relatively straightforward. I had a Lifetime ISA with Moneybox already, so when it came to buying a home, I could just request an appointment in the app to begin discussing the mortgage application.

After a call, we were able to find the best mortgage offer for us and apply. The whole process could be tracked in the app so I never felt unaware of what was going on.

Can you share details on your mortgage (rate/term)?

5.15% with a two-year fix. We decided to opt for a short-term mortgage in the hope that the rates come down just before remortgaging.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

I had been renting since I started university in 2013. Myself and my partner then began renting together in 2015. I graduated and started my career in 2017, which is when I began to start saving for a home.

What made you want to buy rather than renting

It’s always been a dream to own a home. I had lived in many rentals before, but they never truly felt homely as decorating wasn’t allowed or felt wasted as it was investing in a property that’s not mine.

Owning a home means we can make the property ours and modify it however we like. It also means we have an asset. 

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

It’s in the town where I grew up (Horwich) and is local to both of our parents. It’s also close to Manchester city centre which is where we work. It’s surrounded by the West Pennine Moors so there’s lots of great walks and views.

The new build area is part of a multi-million-pound regeneration project called Rivington Chase. There are plans to introduce new green spaces and community areas, so there’s lots of potential for the former industrial site.

How have you made the property feel like home?

Brought our two cats! We slowly started to buy furniture for each of the rooms after moving in and saving up more. 

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

At the minute, minimalist. We have kept things simple with a fairly neutral colour palette. The walls are still white which works well with the smart lighting we have in place. It means we can paint the walls with any colour of light we choose.

What’s your favourite room and why?

I would probably say the kitchen, as it gets lots of sunlight through the French doors. It’s also the room we had bought the most upgrades for, such as premium floor tiles, a hard worktop and delta lights.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

There is a good amount of storage space in the house. We have recently had the loft boarded and shelved too, which is where the majority of things are now being stored. The next goal is to work on the garden space and buy a shed so we can store our bikes.

Do you have plans to change the property?

No immediate plans to change the property, other than to create a good garden space next. 

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

There are always a lot of horror stories when it comes to new build properties. Thankfully, we have only had minor cosmetic snags, the majority of which have already been fixed.

What do you want people to know about buying a home?

Saving up is difficult and takes time, but it’s so worth it in the end. For me, consistency was key, setting aside what I could each month for the house and almost seeing it as a regular bill. 

Make sure that you are using a Lifetime ISA if you are under 40 to maximise your house savings. 

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

At the moment the house is perfect for us, so we have no plans to move. We might consider upsizing in the future, though. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.