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Brothers choose The Hedgerows in Dudley

23rd July 2010 Print
James and Thomas Cullis

When brothers James and Thomas Cullis decided to leave the family nest they made family get-togethers easy by both choosing to buy new apartments at Taylor Wimpey’s development The Hedgerows in Dudley.

Having little savings, the boys needed to make their money stretch as far as possible to afford to get on to the property ladder and so they used the house builder’s HomeBuy Direct scheme*.

The initiative is aimed at helping purchasers with a 5% deposit and household income of as little as £17,000 to get onto the property ladder. Anyone purchasing using the scheme owns 100% of their home from day one but needs to pay only 70% of the price now, using a low interest equity loan to fund the remaining cost of the property (APR 1.75% pa).

James, 23, explained: “I had been thinking about moving out and getting a place of my own for a while but I didn’t want to waste money renting. I wanted to hang on until I could afford somewhere, paying off my own mortgage instead of someone else’s. When I overheard mum telling Thomas about the HomeBuy Direct scheme at The Hedgerows I thought it sounded like a great idea and went along to the development to find out more.

“When Thomas and I had a look at the plans for the two bedroom apartments we both decided to buy one, as they seemed excellent value for money. We don’t have to worry about doing any maintenance, as they are brand new and they’re secure which is an advantage for me as I’m in the army and away from home a lot.”

Thomas, 21, added: “Whilst living with my mum and dad had its benefits I was really keen to get a place of my own and couldn’t believe it when mum, who works at the development, mentioned that it may be possible using the HomeBuy Direct scheme. We’re both going to be moving in at the end of August and it’s very exciting; I’m like a kid waiting for Christmas and have already started buying furniture – in fact I’m going shopping for a new sofa next week!”

Anne Wallace, regional sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Midlands, added: “The case of James and Thomas perfectly demonstrates how HomeBuy Direct can make the dream of home ownership a reality for first time buyers. Unfortunately the scheme is due to finish in September so there’s really not much time left for other first time buyers in a similar position to take advantage of it. If you want to make the first step onto the ladder, just like James and Thomas did, then you better get your skates on and get in touch now to avoid missing out."

First time buyers like James and Thomas may be interested in plot 95, the three bedroom Harvington, which is available at The Hedgerows and is priced from just £111,997 through HomeBuy Direct.

Those looking for their first home in Halesowen can take advantage of the HomeBuy Direct scheme at the house builder’s Henley Grange development where two bedroom apartments start from just £66,497 through the scheme (£94,995 full price). You only need a 5% deposit and your mortgage payments could be as little as £316 per month.

The Hedgerows offers a collection of two, three and four bedroom properties, ideally located in the town of Gornal, on the edge of Dudley. It is within easy reach of many attractions, including Birmingham city centre and The Merry Hill Shopping Centre. Those looking for alternative interests will find a variety of restaurants, bars and clubs, as well as a host of leisure centres and gym facilities.

Henley Grange comprises a collection of 154 mews-style homes and contemporary apartments located within the established residential area of Belle Vale. The development enjoys a semi-rural feel with the River Stour close by and attractive woodland and public open space to the rear.

For further information on HomeBuy Direct or the homes available, visit: taylorwimpey.co.uk

*Available on selected properties. Terms and conditions apply.

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James and Thomas Cullis