A recent graduate and mother from Ratby is thriving in her first home courtesy of Platform's Shared Ownership development in the village.

To mark New Homes Week 2024 (February 26 – March 3), Katie Kirk, is celebrating the affordable homes scheme, having recently moved into her brand-new three- bedroom home at the Bluebell Croft development with her 14 year-old daughter after renting privately in the past.

The mum, who graduated university later in life aged 34, was looking to purchase a home soon after completing her degree, and quickly understood that Shared Ownership was the perfect route onto the property ladder.

Shared Ownership allows homeseekers to purchase a share of their home and pay rent on the remaining amount, typically buying between 10% and 75% of the property's full market value, depending on the model purchased with.

This lowers the amount needed for a deposit, with most deposits on Shared Ownership schemes between 5% and 10% of the share and not the full amount.

Platform has seen an increase in popularity in the Shared Ownership scheme. In fact, they have sold 55% more Shared Ownership homes between April 2021 and March 2022 compared to the previous year.

Through the process of staircasing, those using Shared Ownership can gradually increase the amount of their home that they own.

The end-terrace home, off Markfield Road, is in the ideal location for Katie, with the thrill of being able to put her own stamp on her home combining with the proximity to her daughter's school providing the ideal blend for her first property.

Katie, who works as a customer adviser, said:

"I knew I wanted to purchase through Shared Ownership right away, so I was keeping my eyes peeled for the perfect home in an favourable location.

"When I saw these homes become available, I immediately booked an appointment to have a look around.

"The sales team were amazing, I was kept in the loop the entire time, which was really important as a first-time buyer as otherwise I would not have known about how my home was progressing."

Like many house hunters, Katie's sole income did not qualify her to be granted a mortgage for an outright purchase home nor the ability to save for a full deposit, however she is now experiencing the freedom of an outright owner without the outgoing of a 100 per cent mortgage.

On having her own space, Katie said:

"I can really make this mine. Previously, in rental properties, I was reluctant to decorate, make any changes to the garden, nor the kitchen, as I knew that ultimately I would have to give it back.

"This time, I didn't even need to ask, I pretty much had free reign to let loose, and have loved that I can finally be creative in my own home.

Shared Ownership is quickly becoming a more viable route into buying your own home, and Katie urged those considering purchasing through the scheme to grab the chance with both hands."

Katie concluded:

"If you are thinking about Shared Ownership, 100% look into it, particularly if you are struggling to get onto the property ladder.

"It was the only way I was ever going to achieve my dream of homeownership, and the house and location being so great has given me the perfect combination."

For more information on Platform Home Ownership and Shared Ownership, please visit www.platformhomeownership.com.

Platform has more Shared Ownership homes coming soon to Ratby. To enquire about these homes please call the friendly sales team on 0333 200 7304.

*T&Cs apply.