December 2016
Marketing Graduate for Story Homes Rebecca Routledge (21) and her partner Sam Cleminson (23) Electrical Engineer have recently taken the next step and have bought their first home.
The couple were living with their parents and decided that they wanted to move in together. Having explored the option of renting, they agreed that their money would be better invested in owning a house.
Affordable new homes are a very popular option for homebuyers, allowing people who would otherwise be unable to buy a property to enjoy all the benefits of living in a brand new home for a price that fits their means, helping them to get their first foot on the property ladder.
Rebecca said “When we were house hunting, we looked at houses that would be projects and new homes. In the end though, the decision was easy, both our parents were flooded, and we just couldn’t face loads of DIY. Plus we don’t have the money to do up a house.”
The couple own a three bed ‘York’ at Eden Gate which they purchased at 70% of the market value. Affordable properties remain as such in perpetuity, and should homeowners wish to sell the property it would be sold at 70% of the market value at that point in time.
Sam continued; “I’ve just completed my apprenticeship as an electrician and the last thing I want at the end of a day at work is to come home to more DIY at my house!
“Plus buying an affordable home was really easy. There is the initial qualifying application process which we completed online and really didn’t take long at all. Then its exactly the same process as buying a home and there is no difference from ours to any other Story Home. Its built to the same high standards and the quality finish inside is brilliant. I would highly recommend it.”
Story Homes sensitively includes affordable housing within new developments to meet local needs as required by local planning policies. In order to be eligible for an affordable home you need to demonstrate in financial terms that you require the discount on the property in order to afford it, and have a local connection to the parish, ward or district.
Interested members of the public need to apply through Carlisle City Council to be assessed for their eligibility. Once approved there is a list on the city council website of available properties for people to peruse and apply to purchase.
There are affordable properties currently available on Story Homes Carlisle developments Crindledyke Farm and The Ridings. Further information available on Carlisle City Council website and from the Sales Executive at the on-site marketing suites which are open Thursday to Monday from 10.30am – 4.30pm.
