Shared ownership means hotel-style chic at Bridges Wharf

The stigma once attached to shared ownership is beginning to break. The days of substandard homes in undesirable areas are no longer - in their place have arrived a new breed of stylish and chic homes and with them, a new type of shared owner.

A prime example is at Bridges Wharf in Battersea, where Notting Hill Home Ownership is currently marketing a range of magnificent shared ownership properties, popular with those seeking stylish inner city living.

Bridges Wharf is a mixed-use development comprising 266 apartments set in two-acres of prime waterfront land by the River Thames. Built by Weston Homes, the development features retail and commercial units and a hotel. It comprises three elegant buildings arranged around a beautifully landscaped communal square that features an ornamental pool, wetland garden, naturalist pond and a series of plaza’s linking to the waterfront. The shared ownership apartments, which are being sold by Notting Hill Home Ownership, are located within the 11 storey Orbis Wharf and there is a choice of 55 one and two bedroom homes available from the ground to the sixth floor.    

The affordable homes on offer at Bridges Wharf mean potential purchasers can now opt for a glamorous lifestyle and location, even if they are priced out of the private property market. The development provides shared ownership buyers with contemporary spacious homes which boast an impressive specification and layout, complete with a large hotel-style reception area with full time concierge and a wealth of communal facilities.

Mark Vaughan, Director of Home Ownership for Notting Hill Home Ownership comments: “Previously shared ownership supported key workers, low income first time buyers and social tenants. But now, as the country is gripped by recession, and with the need for far larger deposits to purchase a home, more and more middle income buyers are turning  their sights to shared ownership to solve their housing needs. This shift in demographic is evident in the fact, this year alone 70% of our buyers are now in this category – they are earning between £30,000 to £70,000 but still could not afford to purchase on the open market.”

Mark Vaughan continues: “Shared ownership is becoming chic as it is now the lifeline for middle-income buyers. Developers and housing associations are recognising not only the demand, but the need from these buyers for stylish and high specification affordable homes in popular areas across London. Bridges Wharf epitomises the new direction that shared ownership has taken, it goes over and above what would be expected in the low cost home ownership market - offering a superb location, design-led specification and excellent onsite amenities.”

Each contemporary apartment features ceramic floor tiles throughout the kitchens and bathrooms while living areas are fully carpeted. Kitchens come complete with all mod cons including oven, hob and extractor hood, stainless steel splash back, washing machine and fridge/freezer. The modern bathrooms feature white suites, thermostatic shower and pivoted glass screen.

All the apartments feature either one or two private balconies, apart from those situated on the ground floor. A number of apartments also boast river views. For peace of mind Bridges Wharf operates an audio entry system, underground parking is available for each apartment and residents will get access to City Car Club scheme. 

Battersea is within close proximity to some of London’s most fashionable areas including Chelsea and Fulham. The Kings Road and Sloane Street are just a short bus journey across Wandsworth Bridge, with Battersea Village nearby offering a wide range of shops, boutiques and eateries. Residents at Bridges Wharf are provided with numerous transport options including trains, underground and mainline services from nearby Clapham Junction.  The A3 and M25 are also within close proximity for easy each to London’s airports and connections to the rest of the UK.

Bridges Wharf is available to purchase through shared ownership (New Build HomeBuy). To qualify, you must live in the borough of Wandsworth. For a one-bedroom apartment you must be earning at least £26,000 (single applicant) or £30,000 (joint applicants). For a two-bedroom apartment you must be earning at least £31,000 (single applicant) or £36,000 (joint applicants).  Applicants will also need access to £3,000 to cover the cost of buying the home.

Purchasers looking to buy at the development have the opportunity to buy an affordable share of between 25% and 75% of the property’s full value and pay a subsidised rent on the remainder, with the option to purchase additional shares later on. Prices, which are at full market value, start at £230,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and £300,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. Shares will be available to purchase between 25% and 75% meaning that you can move in for just £57,500.

For further information visit nottinghillhousing.org.uk/bridgeswharf.