Big and better homes for less money

Can you get a bigger and better home for less money than you are currently paying? Single parent, Philippa Hoad did just that after discovering the New Build HomeBuy scheme available through Orbit First Step.

With two disabled children to care for, Philippa is unable to work and had been living in private rented accommodation since she separated from her husband four years ago. The house she shared with her 19 year old son and 16 year old daughter, both of whom have autism, was not entirely suitable as Philippa explained: “It was small, in need of maintenance and was cramped yet it was also quite expensive to rent. However, I stayed there because I didn’t think I had a choice; as a full-time carer, I didn’t think I‘d be able to secure a mortgage to get back on the property ladder.”

Fortunately, for Philippa and her family, an open event held at Orbit First Step’s development of new homes at Queens Square in Maidstone changed everything. “I knew the area well, so when I saw an advert promoting the event I decided to go along and have a look. Although the staff were helpful and gave me an application pack, I didn’t think I would be offered an opportunity to purchase due to my circumstances, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I could in fact buy a share in a lovely four-bedroom house.

“The New Build HomeBuy scheme enabled me to purchase a 25 per cent share in the house and I’m paying a subsidised rent on the remaining share. It presented me with an ideal opportunity to get on the property ladder. I’m now paying less per month than I was previously and have a much nicer house to show for it!”

Philippa added: “If you have limited finance available, this is a great way to purchase your own home. My solicitior was familiar with Orbit First Step and the schemes they offer which helped the transaction to go through smoothly in about 12 weeks and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to secure their own home for the future.”

Diane Webster, Orbit First Step’s Sales and Marketing Manager added: “Like many people who come to see us, Philippa was under the impression that she would not be eligible for our help. This is a common misconception as we are able to help all sorts of people in all sorts of circumstances, whether they are first time buyers, key workers or those seeking a new home after a relationship breakdown. We are, in fact able to help many people whose household income is less than £60,000. If you are in any doubt, just give us a call, we’re here to help.”

Orbit First Step has a number of additional properties available under the New Build HomeBuy scheme in the area and you can find details of these at orbitfirststep.org.uk. For extra peace of mind, the company is also offering free mortgage payment protection which helps you pay your mortgage and rental payments for up to 12 months if you are unable to work due to accident, sickness or involuntary unemployment.

For further information on Orbit First Step and the developments it is currently marketing, visit orbitfirststep.org.uk.