Four years of saving leads first-time buyers to dream home at Bardon Lea

After four years of saving while living with family, first-time buyers Emily Hextall and Callum Ryde have finally moved into the home they had always dreamed of at Davidsons Homes’ Bardon Lea at Grange View development in Hugglescote.

Emily and Callum wanted a home that would help make the move onto the property ladder as straightforward as possible. Choosing a brand-new home meant they could move straight in without worrying about costly renovations or unexpected repairs, allowing them to focus on enjoying the next chapter of their lives together.

The couple, aged 21 and 22, collected the keys to their two-bedroom Swithland home just a week ago and say every sacrifice they made along the way has been worth it.

Emily, who works at a nursery, and Callum, a joiner, spent four years living with Callum’s mum to give themselves the best possible chance of getting onto the property ladder.

While they received some help towards their deposit, the couple say their new home is largely the result of years of disciplined saving and making careful financial choices.

Emily said: “We’d been saving for years and, apart from a little bit of help with the deposit, it really was a case of cutting back on spending and putting as much money away as we could.

“It just shows other young people that it can be done. It isn’t always easy, but if you stay focused on what you’re working towards, it’s absolutely worth it.”

Emily said: “From the moment we walked through the door in January, Richard, the Sales Manager, made us feel so welcome. It was a completely different experience.

“Every single person we’ve met at Davidsons has been so lovely. Richard always made us feel like nothing was too much trouble. I actually joke that he’s the grandad I never had!

“The Site Manager has been brilliant too. Everyone has gone above and beyond to help us.”

Grange View also features a two-bedroom showhome, meaning those looking to make their first few moves on the property ladder can get a real sense of what life in a Davidsons home could be like.

After viewing the Swithland housetype, Emily and Callum immediately knew they had found the one.

Emily said: “We completely fell in love with it. The ensuite and utility room really stood out to us and it just had everything we wanted.

“As first-time buyers, buying a new build just made so much sense for us. Everything is brand new, it’s really energy efficient and we haven’t had to worry about budgeting for repairs or doing lots of work before moving in. It made getting onto the property ladder feel much less daunting.”

The couple were also able to personalise their home by choosing a white kitchen with dark worktops and matching flooring, while a package including flooring, integrated appliances, a shed and a gifted deposit helped make their first home even more special.

Emily said: “We’re incredibly grateful for everything that was included. It’s made such a difference and meant we could focus on making the house feel like home. We’ve bought all brand-new furniture, so everything feels really exciting.”

Location was another major factor behind their decision. Having previously lived in nearby Barlestone, with Emily’s sister also living close by, the couple were keen to remain in the area while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

Emily said: “It’s the perfect location because you’re not too far from the shops or everything you need, but you’re also away from all the chaos. It’s such a peaceful place to come home to. There are lovely countryside walks nearby for our two spaniels, Winnie and Betty, and we’ve settled in really quickly.”

Although they’re still unpacking after moving in just a week ago, Emily already has favourite parts of their new home.

She said: “I absolutely love the living room and the garden. Having the patio leading up to the lawn feels really special. It’s honestly stunning. We still can’t quite believe it’s ours.”

Stephanie King, Sales Director at Davidsons Homes East, said: ” Buying a first home can feel like a huge milestone, and we’re delighted to have helped Emily and Callum take that step.

“New-build homes can make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers, offering modern, energy-efficient homes that are ready to move into from day one, allowing buyers to focus on enjoying their new home rather than renovating it.

“They worked incredibly hard to make their dream a reality, and we’re delighted that Bardon Lea at Grange View could provide the perfect setting for them to begin this exciting new chapter. We wish them so much happiness in their beautiful new home.”

For more information visit davidsonshomes.co.uk