Posted 21/04/2020
In just three month, James, a 29 year-old working in finance and living in London, viewed between 25 and 30 flats. This intense process enabled him to quickly understand exactly what he was looking for and get a good understanding of the market.
“Like many first-time buyers, I didn’t really know what I wanted until I viewed what was available in my price range,” says James. “I looked at a mix of new builds, converted warehouses and older properties but soon came to the understanding that new builds offered a far more practical living space, having been designed for the way modern buyers want to live.”
Taking on a major renovation project wasn’t what James had in mind either so he narrowed his search down to new developments. Having previously rented in Whitechapel, he was fairly familiar with the area so when he came across White + Green, a Higgins Homes development of 144 properties featuring one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments as well as a range of citipads, he was keen to take a look. Situated between Whitechapel and Bethnal Green Underground stations, James was interested to compare the living space, value for money and design.
“What really impressed me was how helpful the team were at Higgins Homes, especially Mitch and Amber from the marketing suite,” says James. “They were happy to spend as much time with me as I needed and walked me through the whole process so it really wasn’t stressful or overly time-consuming.”
Having already viewed lots of different flats, James was struck with how the development ticked a lot of his boxes. “There wasn’t one thing in particular, it was a combination of many good interior features and the fantastic service from the team at Higgins Homes,” says James. “The kitchens and bathrooms are really well designed with Smeg appliances so it feels luxurious, like a hotel, but with a really homely atmosphere too.”
Having rented all over London, James appreciated what the apartments at White + Greenoffer, as he explains: “I feel this two-bedroom flat is really good value for money and is in an area that is sure to see price growth over the next five to ten years, especially when Crossrail opens. It is rare to be able to get a property like this in an E1 postcode, which will only add to its desirability in the future. The area is a great mix of good restaurants and bars but equally it has local supermarkets and businesses so it still feels like a community.”
Although White + Green is in a vibrant part of London, the design allows residents the chance to enjoy some green space and quiet. There are four apartment buildings set around a central Piazza, with two communal roof terraces in which to enjoy the buzz of the surrounding area from a distance. “There’s a great view from the flat and I really like that it has been designed around a central piazza, it gives it a community feel,” adds James. “Higgins Homes has also really considered security with a key fob for each floor and an interactive panel in your flat which links to cameras outside. It is the small touches that also make a huge difference; everything was in place when I arrived including the internet which added to a stress-free move.”
James managed to complete the transaction before the lockdown in the UK was announced and has been really impressed with the communication from Higgins Homes throughout. “There really hasn’t been any issues and I’m just looking forward to properly enjoying the flat and buying a few pieces of furniture,” adds James. “It feels great to not be throwing money away every month on rent and this is a great area to enjoy the parks and open space as well as the restaurants and shops. The central location and links to public transport means that I can also get around London easily, which is ideal for both work and socialising.”