Securing the keys to a home is more than just a milestone – it marks a significant, often life-changing moment in a person’s life. For first-time buyers, getting onto the property ladder can involve years of planning and saving, along with navigating the complex buying process. We caught up with several first-time homeowners to explore how their experiences have reshaped their perspectives on life and ownership.
**”I Knew This House Was the One” – Emma Croman, 45, Matlock, Derbyshire**
Emma Croman, a freelance photographer, always thought buying a home as a solo buyer would be challenging. With her heart set on transforming a former council property into her dream home, Emma’s determination was unwavering. “In my 20s, I was told that buying alone would be tricky, so I continued renting in Brighton,” she recalls. “However, when I turned 40, a mortgage advisor gave me a much more positive view.”
Emma was keen to live near her mother in Derbyshire, and a road trip through the Peak District confirmed her desire. “I set up Rightmove alerts and initially planned to just window-shop, but then I saw this house and immediately knew it was the one.”
After making an offer of £160,000 and facing some mortgage hurdles, she emphasized the importance of securing a mortgage in principle early in the process. “Looking back, that would have clarified my budget much earlier,” Emma admits.
Now settled into her renovated home since August 2023, she has embraced her DIY skills and blogged about her journey. “I’ve converted it into an open-plan space, filled with light, and created areas for journaling and yoga,” she shares. “Owning my own home has significantly enhanced my quality of life.”
**”We Finally Have a Place to Call Our Own” – Tom Lee, 25, and Chloe Morris, 22, Hereford, Herefordshire**
Young couple Tom Lee and Chloe Morris are grateful for the financial support from their families, which helped them circumvent some of the traditional struggles Gen Z faces when purchasing a home. “We were lucky to have stable jobs and the option to live with our parents while saving,” Tom explains.
Having both sheltered at home, they turned to Rightmove to find a spacious property ideal for their work-from-home lifestyle. After considering just two properties, they successfully purchased a modern three-bedroom house for £298,000, located conveniently close to family.
“The house was fairly new, needing just minor updates like new carpet and painting,” Tom notes. “Having learned DIY from my dad and grandad, we managed much of the work ourselves.”
Their financial outlook has shifted since moving in, but they wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. “Budgeting has become a serious consideration,” Chloe says. “However, it’s worth it – we finally have our own home.”
**”I Feel at Peace” – Tessy Mbofung, 47, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire**
After 18 years of renting, Tessy Mbofung was determined to find a stable home for her children, Donella and Dylan. “Renting was challenging, so buying my first home meant everything to me,” she states.
With a strategic approach to her credit rating and strict budgeting, Tessy managed to save for a deposit before securing her mortgage in principle. “I spent two years getting everything in order,” she shares. “The excitement hit when I started looking for houses in Stoke-on-Trent.”
After viewing over 60 properties, Tessy finally found a large home in a quiet cul-de-sac that ticked all the boxes. “We moved in last October, and it’s a project but has so much potential,” she describes. “The day we moved, my daughter and I cried tears of joy. It has truly become a welcoming home.”
**”I’ve Wanted My Own Home Since I Was 20″ – Kelly O’Donoghue, 30, and Chris De’ath, 37, Colchester, Essex**
For Kelly O’Donoghue, the dream of homeownership began early; she saved half her wages for nearly a decade. “I sacrificed experiences like traveling with friends, but I was focused on having something to pass down to my future family,” Kelly explains.
When her relationship with Chris De’ath took a romantic turn, their shared vision for the future solidified their decision to buy together. “After we received a mortgage in principle in March 2023, we were pleasantly surprised by our budget,” she says.
During a chance drive through a neighborhood they liked, they discovered a house that perfectly matched their desires. “The owner graciously gave us a tour while still in her pajamas!” Kelly recalls. With an offer of £340,000 accepted, they moved in May 2024.
“It’s in a peaceful area but close to everything we need,” Chris adds. “Having my own home has been a lifelong goal; achieving it has given me immense fulfillment.”
These stories illustrate the profound impact of homeownership, showcasing the journey, challenges, and triumphs faced by first-time buyers. Each homeowner’s experience sheds light on the emotional and practical aspects of the process, reinforcing that securing a place of one’s own is indeed a significant achievement in life.
