With a growing reluctance from Britain’s twenty and thirtysomethings to fly the parental nest as they struggle to get a foothold on the property ladder, many are staying put for longer as they battle to save for a deposit which is twice as much as what was required three years ago, according to new figures from realpricecomparison.com.
For 32 year old Mark Fielding who has lived with his parents in Romford until recently, staying at home to save for a deposit was the only way he could afford to get onto the property ladder. Mark has now managed to buy a stylish two-bedroom apartment at Crest Nicholson’s Clarion Gate development in Chelmsford.
Mark, who works as an Underwriter for an insurance firm in the city, comments: “I had wanted to buy my own property for a while but I knew it would take me a while to get a big enough deposit together, however, I was prepared to be patient. I gave my parents a bit of rent each month, but by living with them I was able to put some money away each month which eventually was enough for a deposit.”
Mark continues: “Property prices at Clarion Gate are very reasonable, particularly considering how sought-after Chelmsford is as a location and the fast commuter links available into London. Being on a good route into London was extremely important for me and the development is within walking distance of the station, which makes it very economical for me. I plan to be in this property for quite a few years – it was definitely worth the wait.”
Clarion Gate comprises a selection of two and three bedroom cottages, four bedroom family homes and stylish, modern one and two bedroom apartments set around a new village green. Residents at Clarion Gate will also benefit from the redeveloped Marconi Athletic and Social Club, which will include a new sports centre, incorporating six tennis courts, three squash courts, short mat bowls and snooker facilities, as well as a bar, conference facilities, and a fully equipped gymnasium.
Every home at Clarion Gate has been built to the exceptionally high standards associated with the Crest Nicholson brand. Externally, the attractive properties include a range of traditional features, including red brickwork, subtly coloured render and dormer and bay windows. Internally, properties are bright and spacious and include fully fitted kitchens, with a range of integrated appliances.
Mark comments: “I knew that I wanted a new build property from the outset; you get guarantees with new build and don’t have to do too much in the way of DIY, which is a huge time saving factor for me and it also negates any big bills. The apartment has certainly been a good buy for a first-time buyer like me. I love the traditional styling of the property and it also has great views onto the green. I got all of my appliances included when I moved in and a stylish, ready-made bathroom and kitchen which is a great advantage.”
Just a short distance from Chelmsford town centre, residents at Clarion Gate can take full advantage of the wide selection of amenities the town has to offer. Chelmsford boasts a comprehensive collection of high street shopping along with cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars.
Annette Cole, Sales and Marketing Director at Crest Nicholson Eastern, comments: “Clarion Gate is a great location for commuters like Mark and the lack of property on the local market has fuelled demand over recent months. We recognise that for first-time-buyers this is a difficult time to get on the housing ladder, and have therefore developed a range of incentives to help them.”
Nearby Chelmsford Station provides fast and efficient services to London Liverpool Street taking approximately 35 minutes. Alternatively, the A12 is just a short drive from the scheme and provides direct routes south to the Capital and Colchester to the north.
Prices at Clarion Gate start from £162,500 for a one bedroom apartment. For further information about buying a home at Clarion Gate please contact 0870 757 8184. Alternatively, visit the Crest Nicholson website at: www.crestnicholson.com
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For further press information please contact Grayling:
Kathryn Morgan:
T: 020 7025 7545
E: kathryn.morgan@grayling.com
Phoebe Campbell:
T: 020 7478 7812
E: phoebe.campbell@grayling.com
Notes to Editors:
About Crest Nicholson
Crest Nicholson is a leading developer of sustainable communities whose mission is to meet customers’ expectations through the provision of environmentally sensitive and well-built developments. Dedicated to excellence in design and construction, to providing high quality locations and to customer service, each scheme has, as its main focus, the potential to generate a true community spirit through the incorporation of distinctive residential areas alongside open space. Visit www.crestnicholson.com.