Less than two years ago, the first rung of the property ladder seemed out of reach for brothers Matthew and Chris Watson, who lived at home with their parents on the outskirts of Norwich.
But all that changed dramatically for the pair after they each took advantage of improving market conditions and great-value prices to secure a brand new apartment at the same Taylor Wimpey development in the heart of the city.
Ford dealership worker Matthew (25) moved into his two-bedroom home at The Rise in June last year.
And it was on his glowing recommendation that 29-year-old radio DJ Chris has gone on to purchase a one-bedroom apartment of his own, ready for his move in May 2010.
Matthew says: “I knew my brother was in the market for a place of his own so I asked him if he was interested in the brand new phase of homes at The Rise.
“He came and took a look at the plans and liked what he saw. He knew from what I’d told him that it was a quiet spot in a great location for the city centre, and it was the right price so he went for it straight away.”
For Chris, who presents the daily drivetime show on Radio Norwich, the decision to become a homeowner was a long time in the making – and it brought to an end a lengthy period of uncertainty about whether he would ever set foot on the property ladder.
“I did rent a home in Norwich previously for about 12 months but as house prices went up, rent started to increase as well and it got to the point when I couldn’t afford to live there any more,” Chris recalls.
“After that, I moved back in with my parents, where I stayed for two or three years.
“Then, as the recession hit, house prices started to come down and by that time I was in full-time work rather than freelancing, so I began to think seriously about getting on the property ladder for the first time.
“I wasn’t necessarily looking at The Rise until my brother tipped me off that there was a new phase being built and he put the price list in front of me.”
Chris was impressed with the range and prices of the homes on offer and with the convenient location of the development, which is within walking distance of work as well as Norwich’s shops, restaurants and nightlife.
He adds: “I’m really glad I made the decision and I got a very good price. In fact, I don’t think I could have found anything cheaper in a better area anywhere in Norwich. Now I’m really looking forward to living there and can’t wait to move in!”
Following the property market slump, house prices have increased for four months in succession but the average home still costs less than it did a year ago*.
So for would-be buyers like Chris and Matthew, now really is an ideal time to become a homeowner before prices rise even further.
Superb two-bedroom apartments are now on sale from just £124,995 at The Rise, where a host of special incentives is also available to assist first-time buyers as well as those with a home to sell.
See Also: Property News (0), Taylor Wimpey (0), The Rise (0), Norwich (0)
Date Published: 03 December 2009
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