It’s not very often that someone purchases twice at the same development, but that is exactly what Laura Lee, 34, did at L&Q’s development in Chelmsford! After purchasing a one-bedroom apartment with L&Q at their Beaulieu development back in 2018, Laura knew that when it came to purchase a bigger home, she wanted to purchase with L&Q again.

Laura explains: “I loved my home and the area; I was just ready for a bigger place. I’d been in my one-bedroom apartment at Beaulieu for four years, and I knew it was time to purchase a larger home, but I didn’t want to leave the area!”

“Upsizing was already on my mind when I saw an advert for L&Q’s two-bedroom homes at The Arbour, a neighbourhood within the Beaulieu development, just five-minutes from my current home! I knew I had to go for it!”

Laura recently purchased a 30% share of a two-bedroom Shared Ownership house at The Arbour, through L&Q.

Laura explains that after her positive experience with L&Q, she was confident buying a home with them again, “L&Q were great the first time around, so I knew I wanted to purchase with them again. They made moving quick and simple – the whole process only took four months, from my first appointment in June, to completion in October.”

“When I was a first time buyer, I purchased 25% of the property, but my financial situation has changed over the past few years, and I’ve been able to purchase 30% of my new home, and I plan to staircase up to 100%.”

Already a Shared Owner, Laura knew that the affordable housing scheme was the right option for her and was keen to purchase through Shared Ownership again.

She says: “I initially found out about L&Q on Rightmove back in 2018 when searching for information about Shared Ownership properties. A friend of mine lived in a Shared Ownership flat and she recommended it to me – I am so glad she did!”

“I knew wanted to buy with Shared Ownership again as it is such a simple process and it really supports single buyers onto the property ladder. There is no way I could afford a home like this on my own without the scheme!”

Now happily moved into her brand-new two-bedroom home, Laura explains her favourite aspects about the house. “I love my home and I am happy here! My new house is spacious for a two-bedroom home and it is really great value for money – especially when comparing it to others on the market in the area.”

“All of the finishes are lovely. The appliances are integrated which makes the kitchen look sleek. They were all included in the price too – which was a massive bonus! The cost of those things can really add up!”

Explaining why she was so set on staying in Beaulieu, Laura comments: “I was so thankful that L&Q built new Shared Ownership homes so close to where I already lived. I didn’t want to leave Beaulieu – it’s really lovely and has lots of green, open space. I am a keen walker, so the location is ideal as there is a bridle path right outside my house that links up to a lovely park!”

“There are so many great shops and a community centre nearby in Beaulieu Square, including lots of local businesses and small cafes, which is perfect for me as I love that community feel!”

“My home is also in the perfect spot for my commute to work, the road links are fantastic – and it will be even better when the new bypass is open.”

Reflecting on both of her buying experiences, Laura could not recommend the L&Q team enough. She commented, “The L&Q staff have been so helpful – for the four and a half years I have lived in an L&Q development, they have always been so helpful dealing with any issues. I would absolutely recommend Shared Ownership with L&Q. My friend is now actually purchasing at L&Q’s development across the road, after she heard about my two fantastic experiences!”