In an ever-challenging London housing market, finding an affordable home with great connectivity and green spaces can feel like an impossible task. For Matthew, a 35-year-old HR professional, Shared Ownership at our Icon development in Burnt Oak provided the perfect solution. It has allowed him to secure his dream one bedroom flat in a vibrant and up-and-coming area.
The property search
Having lived in London for 13 years, Matthew had always hoped to settle in North London, ideally along the Northern Line. Previously, he was renting a house in Stoke Newington. He recalls: “While I only lived with one other tenant, there was a frequently used Airbnb rental upstairs meaning there were constantly three or more people in the house at one time.” As a naturally sociable person who also values personal space, Matthew longed for a home that offered privacy and the freedom to host friends without restrictions.
Beyond his need for space, his previous commute to Charing Cross required both a bus and a tube, taking up to 1 hour 20 minutes. He says: “Although I work in a hybrid role, commuting this far even 1-2 days a week was exhausting. The lengthy journey made finding a home with direct tube access a top priority, which is exactly what Icon delivers.” Now, his daily commute is a smooth 40-minute tube journey, cutting his previous travel time in half.
Matthew was actively searching for a new home when a flyer for Icon was delivered to a friend’s home. He recalls: “I was lucky enough that my friend realised this could be exactly what I was looking for and passed the flyer on. Everything came together once I had a phone call with SNG and organised a viewing of the development.”
He states: “From the moment I stepped inside, I knew it was the one. A modern new-build, the one-bedroom apartment featured sleek finishes and had an inviting atmosphere. The standout feature was a spacious balcony extending from the living area to the bedroom, flooding the home with natural light. For a one-bedroom apartment, it felt exceptionally airy and open, further cementing my decision to buy.”
Life in Burnt Oak
Moving to Burnt Oak provided Matthew with an unbeatable combination of affordability, connectivity, and green spaces. As an avid walker, he comments: “I am lucky to have two fabulous parks nearby, one of which has a lovely stream running through it. An adorable independent café has recently opened in one of the parks. This has quickly become a favourite spot for coffee and brunch. It’s such a brilliant little find and the food is amazing.” London is steadily becoming more environmentally conscious, whether it’s through building sustainably or new green spaces being developed, but it remains a huge privilege to have large green spaces on your doorstep. Matthew continues: “Burnt Oak provides a serene escape into nature, just steps from your door. In today’s fast-paced world, having a place to reconnect with the outdoors is so important. Amid the hustle and bustle of London life, these green spaces have helped me find a better work-life balance and a healthier lifestyle.”
Food is another major passion for Matthew, who finds cooking to be a creative outlet that brings both joy and relaxation. He shares: “Burnt Oak’s diverse range of supermarkets and a variety of Turkish and Oriental markets, allows me to fully indulge in my love for cooking. I absolutely love experimenting with international cuisines, and having these incredible food shops right on my doorstep means my culinary curiosity is always satisfied. Plus, being under 30 minutes from Central London, I’m perfectly positioned to explore the city’s vibrant dining scene whenever inspiration strikes.”
Matthew’s love for arts and culture is also well catered for. He says: “As an Everyman Cinema member, I enjoy being just four tube stops away from the Hampstead branch. Living on the Northern Line also means effortless trips to the West End for plays and musicals which I love. London’s vibrant arts scene is all around me, offering endless opportunities to explore and be inspired.”
The freedom of homeownership
Perhaps one of the biggest lifestyle changes for Matthew has been his ability to host. He states: “My passion for cooking, music, and socialising was previously restricted by the limitations of a shared house. Now, with my own space, I can finally hold the dinner parties I have always dreamt of. I have been able to cultivate an environment where my friends can come together, relax, and enjoy memorable experiences. It’s not just about hosting, it’s about the joy of living life on my own terms, in a space that I love.”
Matthew continues: “This move has been life-changing, this home has given me an immeasurable improvement in the quality of my life.”
Matthew purchased a 25% share of his one bedroom apartment. His monthly outgoings amount to approximately £1,050—comprising £300 towards his mortgage, £550 for rent, and a £180 service charge. He states: “While this is an increase from the £850 I was previously paying in rent, the investment is entirely worthwhile. Now, this money is going towards my own property rather than a landlord’s pocket, making the jump to homeownership a worthwhile and fulfilling decision.”
Matthew's advice
Reflecting on his journey, Matthew shares valuable advice for those looking to move or get onto the property ladder. He shares: “Be open to exploring different locations—you never know what hidden gems you might find. The dream of homeownership is more achievable than you think. Be patient and trust the process. Keep an eye out for opportunities beyond the internet—his journey started with a simple flyer. Seize opportunities when they arise. Know your budget and allow for a small buffer.”
Matthew’s story is a testament to how Shared Ownership can offer Londoners an affordable pathway to homeownership without compromising on location, lifestyle, or quality of life. With a beautiful new home, a shorter commute, and the ability to fully enjoy his passions, Matthew’s move to Icon has been nothing short of transformative.