A fresh start thanks to Gleeson: Julie and Stuart's story
Buyer: Julie, 55 and Stuart, 54
Occupations: NHS Nurse & Warehouse Operative
Date of purchase: June 2025
Development: Stoneyford Green, Sutton in Ashfield
Purchase price: £244,995
Mortgage cost: £528
House type: 3 bedroom, detached, Kilkenny
Scheme: Smooth Move and Key Worker Scheme
After raising their family in the same home for nearly three decades, Julie and Stuart were ready for a new beginning, but they didn’t want to move far from the area they’d always loved. Having lived in Sutton-in-Ashfield for over 20 years, they were familiar with the local community and had often walked their dog near what would one day become Stoneyford Green.
“We always said, if they ever built here, we’d think about moving. When the timing lined up, our children had moved out, and we sadly lost our dog, it just felt right. It was time for a fresh start.”
The couple chose the Kilkenny, a 3 bedroom detached home with a garage. They purchased it for £244,995, with monthly mortgage repayments of £528. After years in their previous family home, they wanted something slightly smaller but with better use of space. “The Kilkenny gave us everything we wanted,” says Stuart. “Every room has a purpose, and there’s no wasted space like in our old property. It’s the perfect layout for us.”
Julie and Stuart reserved their plot in February 2025 and officially moved in June 2025. Julie works as an NHS Nurse and Stuart as a Warehouse Operative, so they were delighted to be able to use both the Smooth Move and Key Worker schemes to make the process easier. They describe their experience with Gleeson as exceptional from start to finish, crediting the sales team for their care and professionalism. “From the moment we walked into the sales office to the day we got our keys, the team couldn’t do enough for us. We were worried that our old house wouldn’t sell, but Gleeson reassured us and helped make it all happen. We honestly couldn’t fault the experience.”
One of the most noticeable differences in their new home has been the modern,efficient heating system. Their Kilkenny at Stoneyford Green features an Air Source Heat Pump, which has already made a big impact on both comfort and running costs. “We’ve only been using the heating for a few weeks, but our energy bill has already dropped by £100 a month,” explains Julie. “It’s taken a little while to get used to how it works, but it’s so cost-effective. The house stays warm and never feels cold.” They have also embraced the sustainability touches that come with a Gleeson home, placing their bug house in the garden and planting the wildflower seeds provided.
The couple chose several upgrades, including carpets, herringbone flooring, integrated appliances, downlighting, extra sockets, power to the garage, and even an outside socket and gate. “We wanted to move in and not have to do any work,” says Stuart. “At our age, we just wanted a simple life, and this home has given us exactly that.”
Moving in also coincided with a personal milestone for Julie, who flexi-retired from her NHS role around the same time. “It felt like a new chapter in every way,” she says. The couple have found life much more relaxed since the move, enjoying their time together without the ongoing maintenance their old house required.
One of the unexpected joys of life at Stoneyford Green has been the community that’s formed among new homeowners. “We have a WhatsApp group for the street, we all help each other out, taking bins in or welcoming new neighbours. It’s such a lovely community,” says Julie. “We’re so lucky.”
Reflecting on their experience, both Julie and Stuart agree that choosing Gleeson was the right decision. “Without a doubt, we’d recommend Gleeson,” says Julie. “If you’ve got your eye on a specific plot, reserve it early, they go quickly! The process can feel slow at times, but it all comes together in the end. Take time off on completion day if you can, enjoy every moment.”
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.
