A Teacher's First Step Onto The Property Ladder - Hightown Shared Ownership

A young teacher has been able to take that all important first step onto the property ladder by applying for Shared Ownership with Hightown Homes. 

After signing up to Hightown’s shared ownership scheme, 27-year-old primary school teacher Lizzie Battams was able to move out of her parent’s home, and now owns a 50% stake in a one-bedroom maisonette in Hemel Hempstead.  She rents the remaining share at a subsidised rate and can increase her stake in the property over time.  

Lizzie says:

“When I found out that my offer was accepted, and I was finally going to be a homeowner I felt elated!  It’s hard to find somewhere affordable, especially in Hertfordshire so it all felt too good to be true! 

“The flat is beautiful and I’m lucky enough to live in a really lovely, quiet and friendly neighbourhood. It’s also really close to work and an easy drive to see my family in Watford.”

Lizzie worked closely with the team at Hightown to make her homeowning dreams a reality and is full of praise for the support that the staff have given to her.  

“The Hightown staff have been really helpful and efficient.  They were always easy to get hold of whenever I needed them.” explained Lizzie

Hightown Homes, the trading name of Hightown Housing Association, currently offers a variety of new build apartments and houses for shared ownership, as well as several resale properties that are currently owned by existing owners who have decided to move on.  Those who are interested in shared ownership and fit the required criteria, can apply to buy up to a 50% share in a property and rent the remaining share at a subsidised price. Most successful applicants can expect to move into their new homes within two months.

For Lizzie, with the school holidays on the horizon, she is happily settling into her new home and is keen to encourage others who are considering using shared ownership to get a foot onto the property ladder to take the leap. 

Lizzie comments:

“If you’re thinking about applying for shared ownership, I would say go for it! With shared ownership, it’s so much more achievable to get your foot on the housing ladder. I love having my own space and independence. I feel very grown up!”