Escape to the country with help to buy

Originally from Lithuania, we had lived in London for 10 years and decided now was the right time for a change of scenery, a breath of fresh air (literally) and a change in lifestyle. We are really happy with our move to Thakeham’s Parbrook Walk at Myrtle Lane, Billingshurst, West Sussex.

Although we were already on the property ladder in London by way of a shared ownership scheme, we wanted to own our next home 100%. This was a strong influence in deciding to leave London. We had built up a good amount of equity in our flat in West Dulwich, a desirable area in South London, yet it was not enough to afford the house and space we wanted if we stayed in the city. Property prices have rocketed and we realised we could get so much more for our money by moving to the countryside – a decision that excited us both.

Being able to commute to London was important

Considering factors including lifestyle, health, and a want for more space and access to the countryside, it was an easy decision to leave London – what was less clear was where to head to – we had no strong ties to any part of the UK.

As is often the case, work was a deciding factor. Although I was planning to work from home, Ieva works in London and would need to commute and therefore towns with good commuter links became our focus.

Buying a new home using Help to Buy gave us options and flexibility

A really quick offer on our property in London influenced our decision to look at new build homes – a house with no chain made sense. Through our search for new homes we came across the Government Help to Buy scheme. Although in a good position financially, we decided to use Help to Buy – it enabled us a financial flexibility which has been useful as we go through a lifestyle transition with career changes.

Using “new build” as a term in Google, we came across a Thakeham development in Peacehaven, which led us to Thakeham’s Parbrook Walk in Billingshurst. Billingshurst mainline train station is less than a five minute walk from our new home and this was a big positive for Leva.

Buying a new home

We had bought a new build property before so we were not new to the concept. However, we both agree that our experience with Thakeham has been so easy and we have been so well looked after, that it has made it a far more pleasant experience than before! It’s been a really personal service and we loved the little touch of a bottle of English sparkling wine as our welcome gift. We have already recommended Thakeham to some friends looking to buy.

A small development with personality

We are really happy with Parbrook Walk – it’s a small development of just 12 private homes. Showcasing different house styles, it has a traditional feel and appealed over the larger new home developments in the area. We love the space our new home provides and we are enjoying making it our own – we are especially loving the light living space with French doors to our garden, which is backed by mature trees and recreational grounds.

A two bedroom house on a small development with a garden which is not overlooked by lots of neighbours would have been out of reach for us in London. With the added bonus of being surrounded by beautiful countryside, we are very happy with our decision to buy a Thakeham home in Billingshurst.