Help is at hand for prospective first time buyers
A Portsmouth resident who believed home ownership was out of his reach is celebrating after moving into his first home at Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties’ Scholars Walk development.
James Hammond, 28, was resigned to living in rented accommodation but after hearing about the government backed FirstBuy scheme, his dreams of home ownership soon became a reality.
James explains: “Like a lot of people my age, I was handing over my hard-earned cash to the landlord each month and I just couldn’t afford to save – I thought it would take years and years to come up with deposit but then I came across FirstBuy!
“I spotted Scholars Walk when I went to view a flat to rent nearby. I wasn’t even looking to buy a place of my own as I thought it was unattainable but the staff at the development were very helpful, making me aware of FirstBuy, explained everything and from there it was really straightforward.”
FirstBuy works through a joint loan of 20% from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and Taylor Wimpey, which means that eligible purchasers only need put down a 5% deposit and obtain a 75% loan-to-value mortgage. The loan is repayable at the end of the mortgage term or when the property is sold. To be eligible, purchasers must be first time buyers and the total household earning should be less than £60,000.
James, along with his fiancée Laura, has now moved into his two bedroom apartment at Scholars Walk and is delighted with his new home: “The apartment is lovely and modern with two good sized bedrooms, both of which have double beds. Also, the location is ideal with the city centre just a couple of miles away - we’re really happy with everything and I wouldn’t hestitate in recommending Scholars Walk to any prospective first time buyers in the area.”
Sarah Pasco, regional sales director for Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties, commented: “We’re delighted that home ownership has become a reality for James. FirstBuy is making buying your first home more achieveable and offers an affordable way of getting onto the property ladder. I’d encourage anyone interested to visit Scholars Walk to find out more!”
And for house buyers interested in moving up the property ladder but finding it a struggle, Taylor Wimpey’s Part Exchange scheme is also available at Scholars Walk.
Set in the popular residential area on land that once was part of Highbury College, Scholars Walk is a carefully designed collection of apartments and houses that would be suitable for first time buyers, growing families, downsizers and investors alike.
Currently available is a collection of two bedroom apartments and four bedroom houses, with prices starting from £135,000.
For further information visit or call Scholars Walk visit taylorwimpey.co.uk.
