November 2014
Former Assistant Head Teacher at Tanfield School, Sue Smith, has found her dream new home at The Woodlands in Shotley Bridge.
Having now retired after 39 years in the teaching profession, Sue had been keen to downsize from her large 4 bedroom house. As soon as she heard about the ‘affordable apartments’ scheme with Story Homes at The Woodlands she was eager to find out more.
“I first heard about the development when I was visiting my daughter in Spain. A friend had phoned me and told me she had seen the apartments advertised at The Woodlands. Since selling my large 4 bedroom house I had been renting whilst looking for a new home and the apartments seemed perfect for me.”
“A couple of days later I had a look around the estate and show homes and was very impressed. Sales adviser, Vicky, explained about the ‘affordable’ scheme available on the apartment and this was fantastic for my circumstances. I filled out the necessary application forms for it and found out I was eligible almost immediately. The following week I had reserved my plot!”
Susan in her beautiful new apartment
When talking about her new apartment in the Derwent Valley Sue said: “It’s on the ground floor, but still boasts a breathtaking view! The lounge and kitchen are open plan which I love as I can cook for friends whilst still enjoying their company. I have a bedroom en-suite with a fabulous walk-in shower and a separate bathroom too. The second bedroom is also really large, with plenty of space for a double bed.”
“Once I reserved I was really able to get involved with creating my ideal home including choosing the carpets and fitted wardrobes too. For me, I think I have a got real value for money in this property. It has been great to downsize and i expect to save money on heating and other utilities.”
“The best thing about my new home is I am so happy. It has such a welcoming feel to it. All of my friends who have visited can’t believe the size of the rooms for a new build so I am delighted. Plus all the properties are extremely aesthetically pleasing and the road is paved giving a very unique approach which everyone comments on when visiting”
With everything happening so quickly it was very important for the move to be dealt with efficiently. Sue saved some praise for sales adviser, Vicky: “Vicky kept me up-to-date with progress via email and phone. She was so helpful throughout the process. The support I have received from Vicky during my whole move has been brilliant, and definitely one of the best things about my move.”
“I would recommend a Story Homes experience without hesitation.”
The Woodlands is set in an idyllic location offering breathtaking views across County Durham’s beautiful Derwent Valley. This stunning development really does have something for everyone and recently, just won ‘Best High Volume New Housing Development’ at the LABC awards.
The Hardwick apartments are part of the ‘affordable housing scheme’ as they are sold at 25% discounted value, making the two bedroom two bathroom apartments just £97,500. The offer is subject to criteria set by the local authority.
