For 26-year-old first-time buyers Molly Mitchell and Arthur Allen, securing an affordable yet high-quality home in the New Forest felt like an impossible dream. With a budget of £250,000, their initial search led only to properties requiring extensive renovations. However, Pennyfarthing Homes and the availability of the First Homes scheme transformed their prospects, enabling the couple to purchase their ideal home at Whitsbury Green, a picturesque new development on the edge of the New Forest.
Molly, a Team Leader at 111, and Arthur, a Chef, were determined to remain local in the area they loved. When they discovered Pennyfarthing’s First Homes scheme, they immediately registered their interest. Molly comments: “Being second on the application list of prospective buyers for the First Homes Scheme allowed us an early selection of plots, and it was great to secure a lovely two-bedroom house with a large garden. There’s so much space throughout the house, and we know we’re going to be very happy living here.”
The government backed First Homes Scheme is an initiative designed to help first-time buyers and key workers secure an affordable home in their locality, even in today’s competitive property market. By offering homes at a discounted price, typically around 30% off the market value, the scheme makes homeownership more accessible to all buyers who may otherwise struggle to get onto the property ladder. With a range of high-quality, newly built homes in up-and-coming areas, Pennyfarthing Homes has introduced First Homes to its developments, and this scheme has proven invaluable to many customers, providing first-time buyers with the opportunity to own a beautiful home without compromising on quality or location.
She continues: “The buying process was so much easier than we expected. We simply submitted our forms and supporting documents, and once we were confirmed as buyers, everything progressed smoothly. In just a few months, we went from discovering the scheme to moving into our brand-new home. We also purchased it off-plan before construction had begun – it was exciting to see our first home coming out of the ground and be a part of that process.”
Pennyfarthing Homes’ Whitsbury Green development offers a charming blend of modern living and rural tranquillity, nestled on the edge of the picturesque New Forest. This thoughtfully designed community features a range of high-quality, energy efficient homes, ideal for those seeking a peaceful, countryside lifestyle without compromising on convenience. With its flexible layouts, beautiful gardens, and scenic surroundings, Whitsbury Green is perfect for families, and first-time buyers alike. The development is well connected to local amenities, including shops, cafes, and outdoor spaces, while also offering easy access to nearby towns and transport links. Whether it’s exploring the walking trails, or simply relaxing in the serene environment, Whitsbury Green provides the perfect place to call home.
Now, two weeks into living at the development, Molly and Arthur couldn’t be happier. Their favourite feature is their wonderful garden, which is perfect for their canine companion, a Goldendoodle named Ghost.
Arthur says: “He absolutely loves the garden that we have at Whitsbury Green alongside the shared community green spaces, almost as much as we do! We can’t wait to add a patio and BBQ area for entertaining friends in the summer.”
Whitsbury Green’s rural charm perfectly suits their lifestyle. Arthur explains: “The quiet, slow-paced atmosphere here is exactly what we wanted. We love the walking trails and the nearby dog park, Wild & Free Dog Meadows. It’s an amazing place for Ghost and for us to explore together. Plus, I’ve discovered some fantastic scenic routes for drives, which is a dream for a car enthusiast like me.”
The couple also enjoys being close to local amenities, particularly The Forde Inn, a dog-friendly cafe and favourites spot for locals to enjoy ice cream in the summer, as well breakfast, brunch and dinner. Additionally, their commutes remain convenient, with Molly’s journey taking just 15 minutes and Arthur’s being equally straightforward.
Reflecting on their journey to home ownership, Molly and Arthur are confident that without Pennyfarthing’s First Homes scheme, purchasing such an, open, bright and high-quality home would never have been possible.
Molly explains: “Apart from redoing the flooring to suit our style, the house was completely ready for us to move in. The First Homes scheme has been invaluable to us – the market is so
unpredictable now for young people looking to get on the property ladder, and we’re grateful to Pennyfarthing Homes for providing us with this incredible opportunity.”
Throughout the process, Pennyfarthing’s team provided outstanding support, ensuring a stress-free experience. Arthur adds: “The team was fantastic – helpful, responsive, and genuinely invested in making the process smooth for us.”
Now happily settled into their dream home, Molly and Arthur wholeheartedly recommend Pennyfarthing to other first-time buyers looking for an affordable yet high-quality home in a desirable location.
Molly concludes: “This scheme gave us not just a home, but a new and exciting lifestyle we truly love. We look forward to creating lasting memories in our new home at Whitsbury Green.”
The First Homes Scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help first-time buyers and key workers purchase homes by offering a 30% discount. For more details on the new homes available from Pennyfarthing Homes, please visit www.pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk/developments or call 01425 541818.
