Chance viewing proves move of a lifetime

For Liza Fisher, 36, from Waltham Chase buying a place of her own proved an unattainable dream. With countless obstacles in her way, from high house prices in the local area to the lack of deposit funds, Liza gave up her search and rented a room from her parents.

When a friend mentioned a new housing development in the nearby Whiteley, Liza paid little attention. Eventually curiosity got the better of her and she stopped off at Persimmon’s site in Whiteley to see what was on offer.

To Liza’s surprise, not only did she find an apartment that was perfect for her but also a deal that seemed too good to be true – a shared equity scheme that suddenly made it affordable.

Rob Allen, sales director at Persimmon Homes South Coast, comments: “We suggested our Helping Hand scheme to Liza, where the buyer has to pay for just 75 per cent of the property although they become the sole owner immediately.

“Liza was suddenly able to secure a mortgage because the amount it had to cover was considerably less. She now has up to ten years to pay back the remaining 25 per cent of the property price or until she decides to sell her apartment.”

Liza comments: “With my salary certain to increase over the next ten years, I will be able to pay off the remaining 25 per cent quite easily.

“As the amount I owe is linked to the current price of my apartment, I want to pay it off in the near future to take advantage of the current property market.

“Persimmon has ultimately given me a free loan, as there is no interest to pay on the remaining 25 per cent. They also paid for my deposit, making the buying process even more affordable.

“I am so relieved that I have finally managed to buy my own place and I can’t believe I found out about shared equity through pure luck. I now live even closer to work and a short drive away from my friends and family.

“I would certainly recommend the scheme to anyone in my position. I think the slowing housing market is opening up all sorts of opportunities for people like me, so it’s not all doom and gloom.

“There are some great incentives out there for first time buyers and current home owners and I am pleased I have found a deal so perfectly suited to me.”

As well as apartments, The Orchard offers two, three, four and five bedroom homes. Set in a picturesque area, the development has good access to the M27, leading to Fareham, Portsmouth and Southampton. There is also a railway station nearby, plus plenty of local amenities including a post office, supermarket, gym and even a designer discount village.

Persimmon Homes is currently offering Helping Hand on apartments (75/25 shared equity) and houses (85/15 shared equity) at developments in Amesbury, Basingstoke, Blandford Forum, Bognor Regis, Petworth, Portsmouth, Salisbury and Whiteley.

For further information on the full range of properties available at The Orchard in Whiteley, visit Persimmonhomes.com to download a brochure.