Shared equity scheme leads to dream home for Grimsby couple

A chance encounter with Linden Homes has resulted in Grimsby couple Jenny Walker and Bob Lowthian snapping up a dream home.

The couple are now settling into their trendy, spacious townhouse at the popular Freshney Green development – after moving out of their damp, cramped rented flat elsewhere in the town.

Bob explained: “The flat was suffering from rising damp and we were having to throw away clothes and books that were becoming affected.

“We were actively looking to move out of our rented accommodation and by a home close by. It was only whilst we had some time to spare between viewings that we popped into Freshney Green – more so to be nosey than anything else!”

However, after having the shared equity/ EasyStart scheme – which allows customers to own 100 per cent of a brand new home at a fraction of the price – explained to them, they decided to reserve.

Jenny, who works at Franklin College, and Bob are already enjoying their newly-found space – where they are now able to entertain friends and family in comfort and style.

Bob (24) said: “We happened to be in the right place at the right time and without the shared equity scheme we would never have been able to move to such a wonderful house, which is double what we were expecting to get for the funds we had available.”

Under the shared equity scheme (sometimes also called EasyStart) eligible customers can own 100 per cent of their brand new home, but only pay up to 80 per cent of the price.

The remaining 20 per cent is met by a Linden Homes loan, repayable in 10 years but interest free for the first three.

A selection of two, three and four-bedroom homes are currently available at Freshney Green, many of which are ready to move into now. Prices range from £104,950 to £149,950. For more information, visit lindenhomes.co.uk.