Flying the nest in Ingoldmells: Donni and Beth's story
Buyers: Donni, 27 and Beth, 24
Occupations: Teacher and Teaching Assistant
Year of purchase: August 2025
Development: The Shorelands, Ingoldmells
Purchase price: £223,995
Mortgage cost: £990 pcm
House type: 3 bedroom, detached Ennis
Schemes and/or offers used: Deposit Contribution and Lifetime ISA
For first-time buyers Donni and Beth, buying their first home together at The Shorelands was a dream come true. Both working in education, Donni as a secondary school teacher and Beth as a teaching assistant, the couple had been living with their parents to save up, determined to find the perfect home to begin their next chapter.
“We didn’t consider renting before buying,” explains Donni. “We’d worked hard to save enough for a deposit and didn’t want to get caught in the renting cycle and feeling like we’d never be able to save enough to buy a home.”
After visiting the development with Donni’s parents, who were impressed by the show homes, the couple quickly fell in love with the space, layout, and quality that Gleeson offered. “The rooms were bigger than we expected for a new build, we thought the homes showed great quality for the price, and after speaking with Liam from the sales team, we knew this was where we wanted to buy.”
In March 2025, the couple reserved their 3 bedroom detached Ennis home for £223,995, making use of Gleeson’s Deposit Contribution scheme alongside the government’s Lifetime ISA to make their dream affordable. By June, the property was complete, and after a few finishing touches, they moved in mid-August, ready to make it their own.
“The journey of buying our first home through Gleeson was smooth and straightforward,” says Donni. “In just four months, what started as a foundation, quickly became the home we’re now living in! We were kept informed throughout the process and any concerns we had were ironed out and put to rest quickly.”
Beth adds, “The whole team: Graeme, Joe, Maureen and Liam, were brilliant. They understood that this was our first time buying a home and made sure we felt supported every step of the way. Even after moving in, when we had a few small issues, they were so proactive in getting everything sorted quickly. That level of care really made the experience stress-free.”
The couple chose the Ennis house type for its privacy and layout. “We’re tucked away in the corner with our own private road,” says Donni. “There are no houses overlooking us, and we’ve got a really good-sized garden with fencing all around. It feels peaceful, secure, and truly ours.”
To personalise their home, Donni and Beth selected several upgrades from Gleeson’s optional extras range, including an upgraded Symphony kitchen with integrated appliances, spotlights, heated towel rails, and power to the garage. “We wanted our home to reflect us,” says Beth. “The fact that we could choose things like the kitchen finishes and add practical extras made the process exciting. We loved having that level of control.”
Choosing a new build was also an easy decision for the couple. “With our busy jobs, we didn’t want the stress or cost of a renovation project,” explains Donni. “We liked that everything in a new Gleeson home was brand new and efficient. Being the first people in the home was something that appealed to us, we feel more connected to the house and it gives us a more homely feel.”
Going from living with Donni's parents, to their own place has been a significant change, but one they have embraced. “It’s been a bit of an adjustment becoming "adults"! We’re learning as we go, paying bills, cooking, cleaning, and building endless flat-pack furniture. Beth definitely keeps me busy! But it’s been brilliant, and it already feels like home.”
Although they’re still waiting for their next-door neighbours to move in, they’ve already felt welcomed by the friendly Shorelands community. “Everyone we’ve met has been so warm, there’s a gentleman who always waves from his bench when we pass by, which makes the whole place feel homely and close-knit.”
Looking back on their journey, both agree they’d recommend Gleeson to anyone thinking about buying their first home. “The process was quick, smooth and professional,” says Donni. “We’ve already told friends and family that if they’re thinking of buying new, Gleeson is a great choice.”
As for the future, the couple already has one eye on their next step. “We’d definitely consider another Gleeson home one day,” says Beth. “Maybe a 4 bedroom house when we’re ready for the next stage of our lives. But, for now, we’re just enjoying every moment as new homeowner.”
Feeling inspired by Donni and Beth’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. Explore our developments and get started on your search!
