Latimer by Clarion Housing Group: First time buyer gets on the property ladder in Battersea

Shared Ownership homes available at Windsor Apartments, Wandsworth

When 36 year old Jessica purchased a one bedroom apartment at Latimer’s Windsor Apartments in Battersea, she felt that a new chapter of her life was starting; one of increased independence and freedom in one of London’s’ most desirable locations.

Finally having a space to call hers, Jessica is proud to have stepped onto the property ladder in an area which she loves and feels safe in. Using the Shared Ownership scheme, Jessica purchased a 25% share of her new home at Windsor Apartments, which has given her a new lease of life and new opportunities.

Jessica, a Digital Marketing Manager, had rented in London for nearly nine years, spending eight of them in a shared flat on Prince of Wales Drive with three other people. She comments; “Since the start of the pandemic, I have worked remotely which gave me time to reflect on my living arrangements. I quickly became tired of living, working and socialising in the flat. With four of us all sharing the same living space it quickly felt claustrophobic and I decided it was time for me to take the leap and get my own space.”

Like many, the lockdown restrictions gave Jessica a chance to save money. She says; “It was eye opening to see how much money I could save by not commuting or going out socially and I realised that purchasing a home could in fact be an option for me. Once I decided I wanted to move out of the flat and purchase my own home I began looking at the financial options.

“I had previously thought that even with the Shared Ownership scheme, buying a home would be inaccessible for me but after researching and talking to a friend who had bought using the scheme, I found that the deposit required was achievable. I looked at a few homes but when I was introduced to Windsor Apartments, I was so impressed with the high-quality finish and location that I knew it was perfect for me. The fact I’ve managed to buy in Battersea is incredible.”

Jessica’s apartment is on the tenth floor of Elmbridge House at Windsor Apartments and includes a spacious south facing balcony; “Looking out from my balcony, I enjoy an incredible unbroken view of Battersea with the lake in Battersea Park to the right-hand side and the power station and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to the left. I can’t wait for the warmer months when I can invite friends over for drinks and have my morning coffee outside.

“The apartment has such a thoughtful layout which is working well for me as I still work from home and the design allows me to separate work and home life. I love the finish and sophisticated features such as underfloor heating and triple glazed balcony doors. I was also impressed that my home came with blinds installed as not all new builds offer this.

“Although getting furniture and making it my own is a process, I instantly felt settled in my home and I am eager to start decorating and furnishing it. A transformative element of having my own place is that I will finally be able to have my family round for Christmas instead of travelling back to my parents’ home – that will be a very proud moment for me.

“The development is amazing. There is a 24-hour gym downstairs which I plan to make use of and without doubt my favourite thing is how close Battersea Park is as I absolutely love walking, running and going for picnics there with my friends. A really important thing for me is that I feel very safe in Battersea and I am delighted that I was able to stay in the area.”

Reflecting on her homebuying journey, Jessica comments; “This journey has been life-changing for me in terms of stepping onto the property ladder and the fact I have been able to stay in Battersea. The Latimer team’s help, expertise and patience has been invaluable. Latimer’s customer engagement team were supportive and kept things on track, which I was very appreciative of as it can be quite an overwhelming process for a first time buyer. On completion day I was greeted with a lovely gift hamper which reflects the kindness and thoughtfulness of the Latimer team”.

Prices at Windsor Apartments start from £162,500 for a 25% share, (FMV:£650,000).

Share to Buy is a one stop shop for affordable homes. On our website, you can search for properties, compare mortgages and find out all you need to know about alternative home-buying schemes such as Shared Ownership via our article index.