Dana and Kian's Gleeson Journey!
Buyers: Dana, 23 and Kian, 22
Occupations: Charity Youth Worker and Ground Worker
Year of purchase: October 2024
Development: Calluna Grange, Cumbria
Purchase price: £160,000
Mortgage cost: £675
House type: 3 bedroom, Semi-detached, Wicklow
Schemes and/or offers used: First-time buyer scheme and 5% deposit contribution
For Dana and Kian, owning their first home was a dream they wanted to achieve without the financial stress that often comes with getting onto the property ladder. “We are first-time buyers who were looking for something affordable with a little bit of luxury to get us started,” Dana explained. “We didn’t want to move into a house that needed work or renovations. Because of this, we found that a new build was the best option for us.”
The couple purchased the Wicklow house type, a decision that was based on practicality and lifestyle. “We chose a smaller house compared to others because it really suited our needs and lifestyle. As first-time buyers, we wanted something affordable and manageable,” Dana said. “It’s also easier to maintain, and we’re excited to make the most of the space we have.”
Although they didn’t shop around multiple developers, Dana and Kian found everything they were looking for with Gleeson. “Gleeson was the only new build development we explored. They offered great incentives and affordable homes,” Dana shared. “We particularly liked the Calluna Grange development due to the number of homes and the close-knit community within the village.”
The modern designs and energy efficiency of the homes were another deciding factor. “Gleeson made the process straightforward and stress-free. We felt confident knowing that we were getting a well-built home with energy-efficient features. We originally thought gas and electric would be more than what we pay. Gleeson is very big on creating a home that saves as much energy as possible, they have definitely achieved their goal. Overall, their reputation for delivering quality homes at an affordable price made it an easy choice for us.”
The couple's home-buying journey with Gleeson was smooth and transparent from day one. “We found our Gleeson journey simple and stress-free. Our Sales Executive kept us updated with the progress of the house along with the move-in date,” Dana recalled. "Whenever we had a question about the home, legal documents and contracts, she was very efficient with her responses, making us feel reassured."
The couple also appreciated the care taken by the site team: “When we were shown around the house during the home demo, the site team were friendly and polite, answering any questions we had about the quality of the building. When it came to move-in day, there were no issues, everything went smoothly.”
Since moving in, the couple have relished making their house a home. “There’s a real sense of pride and independence that comes with owning our first home,” Dana said. “We’ve celebrated all the classic first-time buyer milestones, building furniture (with a few arguments along the way!), picking out our first sofa, and hosting our first takeaway night on the living room floor.” But their most memorable moment so far? “Bringing home our new dog, Joey! He’s settled in so well, and it already feels like he runs the place!”
Living at Calluna Grange has ticked all the boxes for Dana and Kian. “We’re really happy with the community and neighbourhood. It’s peaceful and friendly, and we’ve already had some nice chats with our neighbours,” Dana shared. “The location is perfect, it's quiet and close to everything we need: local shops, parks for walks with our dog Joey, and easy access to work and family.
Although they haven’t yet planted their wildflower seeds or set up the bug hotel from their welcome pack due to the weather, Dana said, “We’re definitely planning to do it as soon as the weather warms up. We’re really looking forward to seeing the garden come to life and attracting more wildlife. Sustainability and local wildlife weren’t the biggest factors when we first started looking, but they definitely became more important as we learned more about what Gleeson offered. It’s great knowing our home was built with the environment in mind, and that there’s an effort to support local nature."
Affordability was a top priority for the couple. “We wanted to get on the property ladder without overstretching ourselves financially, and Gleeson made that possible,” Dana said. “The first-time buyer assist scheme was a huge help, we received free flooring throughout the house and a 5% deposit contribution. Without this, we may not have purchased a Gleeson home.”
Dana and Kian didn’t know anyone else living in a Gleeson home before buying, but that didn’t hold them back. They now say they’d “100% recommend Gleeson” to friends and family. “If you’re considering buying a new build with Gleeson, I’d say go for it! The process has been smooth, and we’ve been really impressed with the quality of the home and the attention to detail,” Dana advised. “Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and really think about how the layout works for your lifestyle.”
As for the future? “We would definitely consider Gleeson again for our next move.”
Feeling inspired by Dana and Kian’s story? With a range of 2, 3, and 4 bedroom homes available throughout the Midlands and North of England, your journey to finding your dream home with Gleeson begins today, click here to get started!
