Kiera

Kiera, 28, was living with her parents in Milton Keynes, where she grew up, but was longing for a place of her own. She knew that on her own, she’d not get a mortgage for a substantial sum of money to buy locally, but she also knew that shared ownership could be her answer.

“I had a chat with a mortgage advisor to work out what I could afford to help me achieve my dream of having my own place. But every time a shared ownership house was advertised, it was sold so quickly.

“When I saw these homes being advertised for Hackleton, a pretty village in Northamptonshire, I didn’t hang about; I applied in under 10 minutes!

“I was glad that I had my Help to Buy ISA – the government tops up your savings by 25% when buying your first home – which I used for my deposit.

“Grand Union made it super easy for me to buy this house. The Sales team were very friendly and happy for me to ask any questions I had.

“It was a completely seamless process and the paperwork was straightforward. If there were any delays, Geraldine, the New Home Officer, let me know but sorted them out quickly.

In October, Kiera moved into her two bedroomed house, which she’s furnished in her own modern style.

“I am totally in love with my home, it’s my pride and joy. It’s everything I dreamed of.

“I love the village – there’s a pub, post office, shop, school, church and a football team – and it’s a lovely place to walk.

“I work from home mostly, but have to visit my office in Milton Keynes one day a week. The journey is simple from here and it’s easy to get to the retail parks in Northampton too for some shopping.

“I’ve been able to meet people from around the area through my netball hobby – I coach a team once a week in Towcester.

“I’d encourage others to look at shared ownership. It can be quite scary, buying a house on your own, but you can do it. It’s so empowering and rewarding having your own space.”