Escaping the rent trap: Nuttakitt and Sakulngoen's story
Buyers: Nuttakitt, 32 and Sakulngoen, 30
Occupation: Procurement & Supply Chain Assistant and Food Preparation Assistant
Date of purchase: February 2026
Development: Waterloo Sidings, Leeds
Purchase price: £214,995
Mortgage cost: £703
House type: 3 bedroom, semi-detached, Limerick
Previous rented home: 1 bedroom flat, paying £1000 pcm
For Nuttakitt and Sakulngoen, buying their first home together was always a priority. Thinking ahead to their future and welcoming their first child together, they were keen to move away from renting and invest in a place they could truly call their own.
Previously paying £1,000 per month for a one-bedroom flat, the couple knew that continuing to rent wasn’t the right long-term option for them.
“We always saw buying as the priority because it means owning our own home rather than paying towards another person's investment.”
The couple chose a semi-detached home at Waterloo Sidings, priced at £214,995, with monthly mortgage repayments of £703, a more affordable and sustainable option compared to what they were paying in rent for a smaller property.
The couple were drawn to Gleeson for its combination of value, accessibility and future potential. “The sales team were very approachable, and the homes provided the perfect amount of space for a growing family.”
For Nuttakitt and Sakulngoen, choosing a new build over a second-hand property or renovation project was an easy decision.
“We chose a new build because there is something special about everything being brand new and untouched. We didn't want the stress of a renovation project, instead, we love that every addition or upgrade is based entirely on our own ideas and style. Plus, the financial security is a huge plus, knowing we won't have to worry about maintenance costs because we are fully covered by the NHBC warranty and Gleeson's additional 2-year guarantee.”
They also benefited from upgrades to their kitchen and a free carpet flooring bundle thanks to the First-time Buyer Assist scheme, providing them with extra support to personalise their home from the start.
Their journey to homeownership wasn’t without its challenges, particularly as foreign national navigating the UK system.
“Buying a home in the UK can be a complex process. As a foreign national, that challenge is amplified tenfold because the financial scrutiny, especially regarding "Anti-Money Laundering" (AML) checks and the source of funds, it’s incredibly strict.”
After facing repeated delays with the initial mortgage advisor, they made the decision to switch, something that proved to be a turning point.
“Everything changed when I decided to switch to a new mortgage advisor. I provided them with the same set of documents I had given the first one. The difference was night and day: the entire mortgage application was approved within just one week.”
“From there, Rhodes and Walker managed the legal side of things. Their service was exceptional. They were proactive, provided constant updates, and were incredibly responsive to every query. Thanks to their efficiency, the rest of the legal process was smooth sailing.”
Reflecting on the overall experience, they describe a journey that started with hurdles but ended on a high note. The couple officially moved into their new home at the start of the year, celebrating the milestone moment with their loved ones.
They are already enjoying the benefits of modern living, including their air source heat pump. “Our home features an air source heat pump which is very quiet, easy to use, and consistently heats our home.”
Located close to key amenities, their new home offers both convenience and community, something that was important to them when choosing where to live.
“Our development has a great location, something that was very important to us. It is near good schools, supermarkets, Leeds city centre and motorways”
With affordability, energy efficiency, and long-term security all playing a role in their decision, Nuttakitt and Sakulngoen feel confident they made the right move.
Now settled into their new home, they’re excited for the future and would happily recommend Gleeson to others considering taking that first step onto the property ladder.
“After a rollercoaster start, everything finally fell into place, and I am thrilled to say I’ve received the keys and am now officially the owner of my new home!”
Feeling inspired? 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!
