Kent small business owners Laura and Matthew Andrews have taken their first step on the property ladder at Vistry Group’s Harfleet Gardens location in Ash.
The couple and their two daughters – Abigail, 12, and Alice, nine – were the first residents to move into a new home at the development, which is being built under the Bovis Homes brand, in December 2021.
Laura owns dance company, Dance Xtreme, catering for dancers aged three and above in a variety of classes across venues in Canterbury, while graphic designer Matthew owns brand design company Pixsion Ltd, which helps small businesses starting up, as well as online shop Art of Succulents, selling terrarium kits.
The couple moved into the three-bedroom detached Spruce house type at Harfleet Gardens, after previously renting in nearby Littlebourne.
Laura said: “After renting for eight years we decided we wanted the security of our own home. Being on the property ladder is a great feeling. Sometimes my husband and I will sit in the garden and think wow, this home is all ours and we can do whatever we want with it which is what we’ve wanted for so long.
“The children love the house. Previously they had to share a room as Matthew used one of the rooms as an office, however he has now built his own office in the garden, so the girls have their own space.”
The couple searched for a home for about a year before finding Harfleet Gardens on Rightmove.
Laura said: “At first Matthew wasn’t sure on buying a new build but I had arranged for a viewing anyway. When we saw the home, we were surprised with how perfect it was and within an hour we had already placed a deposit and the rest is history.
“After looking at various other developments, this one stood out to me most. The houses were all spaced out and angled which gave a sense of privacy.”
The pair were surprised with the lower monthly payments when compared to the rent on their previous three-bedroom house, and are also thrilled with the location of their new home. Alice and Abigail are within easy reach of their schools in Wingham and Canterbury, while Laura’s maximum commute is only 20 minutes.
Laura added: “Our home also looks over open green areas which I love and is perfect for walking our cocker spaniel Winston.
“We also love that it is a detached house as it feels very private, and we can play music without the worry of disturbing neighbours.
“Everything we need is within walking distance which the girls love as it gives them a sense of freedom as they can walk there together.
“The community here is great. Everyone is lovely, and we get along with our neighbours so well. This gives such a sense of security and I feel that the girls are safe when they walk about the area.”
The couple were also particularly impressed by the customer service they received from the team at Harfleet Gardens.
Laura said: “The customer service has been amazing and allowed the house buying process to be smooth running. Chris, the sales consultant, has been particularly great. He has helped us throughout the process and even after. He also got along so well with our daughters – they have baked cakes and taken them over to him.
“Even after we moved in, they have been such a help. I would definitely recommend Bovis Homes to others.”
There’s currently a choice of three and four-bedroom houses available to reserve at Harfleet Gardens, with prices starting from £404,995.
For more information, visit bovishomes.co.uk.
References to “we”, “us” or “our” are to the part of the Vistry Group (including Linden Homes, Bovis Homes, Countryside Homes, Drew Smith or one of Vistry’s joint venture companies) from which you are intending to purchase a new home. References to "you” and “your” are to the prospective buyer or buyers of a new home from us.
All images are used for illustrative purposes only and are representative only. They may not be the same as the actual home you purchase and the specification may differ. Images may be of a slightly different model of home and may include optional upgrades and extras which involve additional cost. Individual features such as windows, brick, carpets, paint and other material colours may vary and also the specification of fittings may vary. Any furnishings and furniture are not included in any sale. Please check with our sales consultants for details of the exact specifications available at the development(s) for each type of home and the associated prices.
