Chantelle's homeownership story!
Eager to fly the nest, Chantelle found her dream first home at a nearby Gleeson development, with her sister in the same position they were both ready for the next chapter in their lives!
Buyer: Chantelle Singh, 30
Occupations: Part-time student and Customer call advisor for Northumberland Water
Year of completion: November 2023
House type: 3-bedroom, semi-detached Wicklow
Purchase price: £147,995
Mortgage cost: £663
Development: Middlestone Meadows, Spennymoor
We spoke to Chantelle to find out more about her homebuying journey with Gleeson:
"It all began when my sister and I were ready to move out of the family home and take our first steps onto the property ladder. My sister, Danyelle, initially planned to relocate to an apartment in Newcastle, whereas I always had my sight set on a Gleeson home. The Middlestone Meadows development, located across from our family home, was perfect for me. I had always admired the development while passing by and found the houses very appealing, so when the time came for me to purchase, Gleeson felt like the right decision.
“Danyelle quickly changed her mind after visiting a show home with me and seeing the value she could get for her money with a Gleeson home, compared to a city apartment at a similar price. Instead of a one-bedroom flat, she opted for a 3-bedroom home with a driveway, garden, and garage."
“The main reason I chose to buy my first home with Gleeson was because of the affordability, I found when looking at other developers that their prices were significantly higher, plus the location was not only well-known to me but also conveniently situated near my family.
“Jackie, the Sales Executive, was instrumental throughout my home-buying journey, offering exceptional customer service and a hands-on approach. My initial choice was a 3-bedroom Tyrone house as I loved the layout downstairs, but it was just outside of my budget so I opted for the 3-bedroom Wicklow home instead. I love the layout of my home, it has an open feel to the downstairs, with the added privacy of a separate hallway to the front door!
“I made my reservation in August 2023, and around the same time, my sister also reserved her home, which just so happened to be the house across the road from mine. This wasn’t planned but was a very pleasant surprise and has worked out perfectly as we share our family dog Gigi.
“Jackie’s dedication to assisting us in acquiring our dream first homes was truly touching. The anticipation of finally owning my home was a mix of excitement and nerves, especially between reservation and key collection day. My sister and I visited the development weekly to see our houses progress through the various stages of construction.
“I have definitely noticed a massive difference in my energy bills since living in my Gleeson home. I’m currently spending approximately £5 per week on electricity, compared to my mum who is paying around £15 a week in her older property. Considering I also work from home most days, this significant reduction not only impresses me but highlights the remarkable energy efficiency of my home.
“For me, renting was never considered; I was eager to start building equity immediately. Given that the cost of a mortgage was comparable—and sometimes even higher—it seemed obvious to me. Why rent and contribute to someone else’s investment when I could purchase my own property and invest in my future? It was a no-brainer!
“I have loved personalising my space, adding my own touch to every corner of my home. I opted for the upgraded carpets, a shower installation over the bathtub, and several additional extras in the kitchen and throughout downstairs to truly make it my own.
“Embracing homeownership has granted me a newfound sense of freedom. For those contemplating the journey of purchasing their first home as a solo homeowner, I can wholeheartedly say it’s one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
“To the first-time buyers out there, I encourage you to take the leap onto the property ladder with Gleeson. The journey may seem intimidating and overwhelming at first, but with the backing of a dedicated sales team, the outcome is a beautiful home that is entirely worth every second of the journey.”
Click here to take a read of Chantelle’s sister, Danyelle’s homebuying story!
If you have been inspired by Chantelle’s journey, why not browse our nearest developments to you? With affordable buying schemes, a wide range of offers, additional incentives and energy efficiency as standard, there’s never been a better time to buy new with Gleeson. Click here to start your search!
