We meet Canford Vale resident, Izzie, whose Shared Ownership journey has given her the independence, security and confidence to create a new future for herself and her daughter.
Izzie, a Recruitment Consultant from Bournemouth, purchased a three-bedroom semi-detached home at Canford Vale in Canford Magna, moving in earlier this year with her daughter, two cats and their dog.
After selling a property she had previously owned with her former partner, Izzie found herself facing a challenge familiar to many single buyers.
"I knew I wouldn't have the affordability to purchase a similar home on the open market by myself," explains Izzie. "Bournemouth is an expensive area, so when a friend suggested Shared Ownership as a way to continue owning my own home, I immediately started researching my options."
It was during this time that the estate agent handling the sale of her previous property mentioned Canford Vale.
"As soon as I looked at the development online, I knew it was exactly where I wanted to be," says Izzie. "The location was perfect for me and my daughter because it was close to our family and support network."
After contacting SNG, Izzie learned that a new phase of homes was due to launch and registered her interest.
"When applications opened, I studied the site plan and floor plans and knew exactly which home I wanted. I was so excited when I secured it."
Through Shared Ownership, Izzie was able to purchase a 40% share of her new home, making home ownership achievable at a time when buying outright would have been beyond reach.
Moving day
After months of navigating a property chain, moving day was an emotional milestone.
"Getting the keys was such a relief," says Izzie. "The reality that I'd managed to buy my own home as a full-time mum working part-time brought lots of happy tears. It was a moment of real pride and achievement."
The spacious home has provided everything the family was looking for.
"I absolutely love the size of the house. It ticks every box for us. The garden is huge and I've loved planning and planting it. Having a utility room and an en-suite feels like such a luxury, and the third bedroom has become the perfect home office."
Life at Canford Vale
Settling into the neighbourhood has brought an added sense of comfort and security.
"I used to live on a busy road, so moving to Canford Vale has been a huge change. It's much quieter and my daughter can play outside while I'm nearby. My pets are safe here too."
Beyond the home itself, Izzie has enjoyed becoming part of a growing community.
"There's already a real sense of community here. Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming. Most importantly, I feel safe living here on my own with my daughter. That's something that's incredibly important to me."
Looking ahead
For Izzie, buying her home has provided stability and the opportunity to build a bright future.
"We plan to be here for many years to come. My daughter will soon be starting at a local primary school, which is really exciting. We love taking the dog for walks at the nearby SANG, and we're looking forward to seeing the new facilities arrive at Canford Vale as the community continues to grow."
Advice for other women considering home ownership
Reflecting on her experience, Izzie hopes her story will encourage other women to explore their options.
"I'm incredibly proud to have achieved homeownership as a single woman and a solo parent. Shared Ownership has given me the independence and freedom to start a new chapter for myself and my daughter."
"My advice to other women is not to assume buying a home is out of reach. Do your research, ask questions and explore all the options available to you. Shared Ownership made something possible that I didn't think I could achieve on my own, and I'm so grateful for the support I received from SNG throughout the process."
Interested in finding out more about Shared Ownership at Canford Vale? View the latest homes available and take the first step towards owning your own home today.