Another Happy Customer For Orbit First Step As Charlotte Finally Steps Onto The Property Ladder » Housing » 24dash.com

Are you worried that youll be living with your parents forever? Maybe you are concerned that you could be throwing away money on rent? Does the prospect of getting a foot on the property ladder seem further and further away? This is how Charlotte Isham felt when she tried to buy her first home.

She was disappointed to find that she couldnt find a property close to The Priors School in Priors Marston, where she works as headteacher, at a price that she could afford without a hefty deposit.

Charlotte said: "I was living with my parents and we were quite literally getting under each others feet. I wanted my independence and they wanted to enjoy their home but I couldnt even find a bedsit that I could afford.

"I could have rented a place but I felt that would have been throwing money away rather than investing it in my own property and Id started to think that I would have to live with my mum and dad until I got married!

"Then I heard about Orbit First Step's New Build Homebuy scheme and I was delighted when I discovered Id been accepted to purchase a 50 per cent share of a lovely two-bedroom end terrace in Southam.

"Although its not quite the same as buying your house outright, Id much prefer to own some of my house than none at all, and under the scheme I can always purchase more shares in the future if my financial circumstances change, so thats something I can work towards."

Formerly known as shared ownership, the New Build Homebuy scheme enables purchasers to buy a share of the property which is usually paid for through a mortgage and they pay a subsidised rent to Orbit First Step on the remaining share.

Minimum shares of 25 per cent may be available, subject to terms and conditions. Charlotte said the buying process couldnt have been simpler.
Kristen Boho at Orbit First Step looked after me every step of the way - talking me through the system, providing me with lots of information, and helping to ensure that my finances were in order. Things couldnt have gone more smoothly.

Karen Coleman, Sales and Marketing Manager at Orbit First Step, said: "It can be really frustrating for people who are desperate to move into their own home and who consider buying as a good investment for the future, when they discover they cant afford to buy a property.

"However, as Charlottes case shows, buying through the New Build Home Buy scheme can offer real hope. We realise that the housing market isnt great at the moment, but it certainly isnt all doom and gloom! Weve helped hundreds of people in the region to become homeowners and wed love to help others who find themselves in a similar situation to Charlotte."

One 3-bedroom house is still available in Southam through Orbit First Step. Located on Mayfield Road/Linley Road the properties start from £48,125 for a 25 per cent share. This means they would be available to anyone with a household income of around £21,000.

What's more, they come with gas central heating and double glazing; a fitted kitchen with oven, hob and extractor; and allocated parking. A £2,000 cashback on completion is available on selected properties. Please keep an eye out on www.orbitfirststep.org.uk for further new developments coming up in the area including one on Wattons Lane, Southam, or call Orbit First Step on 08458 50 20 50 for further information.