Community living in Overton

When Denise and her partner Steve Williams moved from Hertfordshire to be nearer to Steve's parents, their main priority was to find somewhere where they could quickly settle into the community and would be happy to spend their retirement. They found their perfect location at Overton, a village between Basingstoke and Andover.

"We looked around at quite a few places but Overton ticked all the boxes," says Denise. "It is a lovely village with plenty of shops, pubs, its own railway station and lots going on. The people are very friendly and have made it easy for us to integrate into the local community. We are already involved in the Recreation Centre, football club, biodiversity group and have attended quite a few village events."

In order to have time to make the most of their new lifestyle, Denise and Steve chose to move into a brand new home at Overton Hill, a mixed development of 1 to 5 bedroom houses by Croudace. "We wanted a new home because, as well as being more energy efficient and therefore saving you money on fuel bills, you don't have to spend time on repairs and refurbishment as everything has already been done for you. Overton Hill is a lovely development with a nice mix of families and single people of all ages which gives it a unique community feel."

Denise and Steve chose a five bedroom property with two en-suites, lounge, separate dining room and study on the development and were particularly impressed by the layout and room sizes. "Our son and daughters are living away at the moment but we wanted a place with plenty of space for when they, and our elderly parents, come and stay. This house is fantastic and I can't praise Croudace and Sally, the site sales representative, enough. They have really gone the extra mile to ensure that the after sales service has been first class."

Prices at Overton Hill currently range from £189,950 for a two bedroom home with lounge/dining room, separate kitchen, en-suite and fitted wardrobes to the master bedroom, up to £475,000 for a four bedroom detached house with study, utility room, lounge, dining room, family room and ensuite shower room as well as family bathroom. This larger home also has a double garage, which has a studio above and a cloakroom.

Tom Bateson, Regional New Homes Director of selling agents Connells said: "Overton Hill has been a real success story because it is an excellent product in a great location. You can enjoy living in a thriving, picturesque village without sacrificing the amenities you would expect in a town such as a main line railway connection to London Waterloo.

"We currently have three houses available which are ready to move into and, if you meet the criteria, Croudace will offer to take your old property in part exchange, meaning you could be settled in your new home by Christmas."

A sales centre is open at Overton Hill off London Road every day between 10am and 5pm - telephone 01256 772078. Further information is also available from Connells Basingstoke office.