From setback to stability: Toyosi and Abolore’s Story!

Buyers: Toyosi, 42 and Abolore, 40

Occupation: Commercial Sales Manager & Support Worker

Date of purchase: December 2025

Development: Wood Hall Chase, Bierley, West Yorkshire

Purchase price: £214,999

Mortgage cost: £1,077 per month

House type: 3 bedroom, semi-detached Tyrone

For Toyosi and his wife, Abolore, becoming homeowners was about more than owning a home. It was about providing long-term security for their family, putting down roots in a community they loved, and creating a place where their future could flourish.

After renting their home in Bradford for more than three years, the couple had begun to see it as their long-term family home. They had spoken with their landlord about the possibility of buying the property and believed they were taking their first steps towards homeownership. But unfortunately, things didn’t go as they had hoped.

"We had discussions with our landlord about purchasing the property, and we genuinely believed that we were on the path to becoming homeowners," explains Toyosi. "Unfortunately, after several discussions, the landlord ultimately declined our offer and served us with a Section 21 notice."

The news came as a huge shock. After settling into the area and making so many memories there, the idea of suddenly having to leave felt overwhelming, especially with their eldest son due to start school. But what first felt like uncertainty soon became the motivation the family needed to take control of their future and begin seriously exploring the idea of owning a home of their own.

For the Lala family, the experience made them even more determined to find a home that would give them the security and sense of belonging they had been looking for. It was at this point that Gleeson Homes became part of their journey, offering the chance to find a new home that felt right for their family and their future.

"Owning our own home meant much more to us than simply having a property with our names on it. It represented stability, security and the feeling that we had finally put down permanent roots for our family. We wanted somewhere where our children could grow up knowing that this was our home. It was also about creating a place where they could make memories, celebrate milestones and build a future that felt truly their own.

As they began searching for a new home, the family had a clear idea of what mattered most. They wanted somewhere spacious, practical and family-friendly, with a layout that would work for everyday life and a good-sized garden where their children could play.

"We weren't simply looking for a house; we were looking for a family home where life could happen. What stood out to us about our Gleeson home was how naturally it seemed to fit the needs of our family. It felt like a home designed for real family life, not just something that looked good on paper."

With its spacious garden, flexible layout and modern design, the Tyrone house style made it easy for Toyosi and Abolore to imagine their family settling in and growing into the space. The family were also able to benefit from Gleeson's Key Worker Scheme, which helped ease some of the financial pressure and made taking their first step onto the property ladder feel more achievable.

"The support made a significant difference by easing some of the financial pressure that comes with buying your first home. It gave us greater confidence throughout the process and helped make homeownership feel more within reach for our family."

One of the most memorable parts of the family’s journey happened before they had even moved in. Almost every Sunday evening, Toyosi, Abolore and their children would visit the development to see how their new home was progressing.

"It became something of a family ritual," says Toyosi. "We would watch the progress from a distance, pointing out the changes each week and imagining what our lives would be like once the house was finished."

Seeing each stage of the build come together made the experience feel even more special, turning the wait for their new home into an exciting part of the journey. "We weren’t just watching a house being built; we were watching our family’s future take shape."

The family also credit their Sales Executive, Sarah, and the wider Gleeson team for making the experience feel enjoyable, reassuring and well supported throughout. "Sarah’s support and enthusiasm made a real difference. We are genuinely grateful for the role she played in helping us get the keys to our new home."

After months of anticipation, Toyosi, Abolore and their children received the keys to their new home on 22 December 2025 and moved in the very next day. The timing made the moment even more special, allowing them to celebrate Christmas and New Year in their own home for the very first time. "It was incredibly special because we were able to spend Christmas and New Year in our new home as a family. Our first Christmas and New Year here will definitely be memories that we cherish for many years to come."

Today, life at Wood Hall Chase feels more settled and secure. The family particularly enjoys spending time together in the garden and watching their children make the most of the space around them. They have also embraced life within the wider Wood Hall Chase community, enjoying its quiet atmosphere, family-friendly setting and growing sense of connection. As one of the first families to move onto the development, they have taken pride in helping create a welcoming atmosphere for new residents. "We enjoy bringing people together, encouraging a positive community lifestyle and helping everyone feel that Woodhall Chase is not just somewhere we live, but a place we can truly call home."

Looking back, Toyosi and Abolore are incredibly proud of what they have achieved together and the future they are building for their family. "Ultimately, I am proud that my wife and I have been able to turn a dream into something tangible for our family."

For Toyosi and Abolore, their journey to homeownership began with uncertainty, but it has ended with the stability, security and sense of belonging they had always hoped to give their family. At Wood Hall Chase, they have found more than a new house, they have found a place to build memories, grow together and truly call home.

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 could happen sooner than you think. Find your nearest Gleeson development and enquire with our Sales Executive today.