Katherine and Harvey's story

Buyers: Katherine, 24 and Harvey, 23

Occupations: Primary School Teacher and Car Sales Executive

Move in month: November 2024

Development: Brompton Mews, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire

House type: The Saltaire, 4 bedroom semi-detached home

Instagram handle: @_athomewithkatherine

Tell us a little bit about yourselves: 

Harvey and I met at secondary school and have now been together for just under 8 years. I’m a Primary School Teacher currently teaching years 3/4, and Harvey is a Sales Executive at Jaguar Land Rover. For the last 2 and a half years we have been renting together, but whilst on holiday in Greece we decided that it was the right time to buy our first home together. We moved into our Avant home in November 2024, and we are loving the process of turning our house into a home.

What was your living situation before buying with Avant? 

Before buying, we rented a house together. Once we had some savings behind us, we knew that buying a house together would be our next step. Our previous home was not too far away from Brompton Mews, so we would drive around the development frequently and scroll through the homes on the website almost weekly, before finally deciding to take the leap and speak to the Sales Advisor.

Which house type did you buy and why did you choose it?

We chose the Saltaire, a 4 bedroom semi-detached home. After looking at a few different options on the development, we decided that this one suited our lifestyle the most. Once we looked inside, we fell in love. We loved that our bedroom was on its own floor, separate to the other bedrooms. I love gardening (although an amateur) so having the space to be outside and grow my own plants was really important to me. In the future we hope to start a family, so having a four bed would allow us to do that whilst still having our own space in the house. 

Why did you choose Avant Homes over other developers? 

Not only did we feel that Avant offered us more in terms of options and extras that suited us, but the Sales Advisors also made us feel like they cared and were excited to be a part of our journey. This had a big impact on us feeling at home on the development before we’d even made our reservation.

Why did you choose to buy a new build property over a second-hand home?

We wanted to move into a home that felt like ours right from the start. We chose our own carpets, tiles etc and it was all in ready for the day we moved in. A home renovation wouldn’t suit our lifestyles right now, so it was a no brainer to opt for a new build. 

Did you make use of any schemes?

We were first time buyers, so we benefited from a deposit contribution from Avant which was a big help.

How did you find the buying process?

We found the buying process relatively stress free as we weren’t in a chain. Our Sales Advisors kept us updated at every stage which meant we were well informed. Having the perk of living near to the development meant we would drive past our new home every couple of days and watch the build process unfold – this was the most exciting experience! 

What do you love most your new home?

On the exterior, we love the decorative bricks around the windows and love that it came with a shed in the back garden. Inside, the layout is perfect for us and our lifestyle. Our home is very bright and airy with the big windows in every room which let in lots of light. 

Did you go for any upgrades from Avant’s optional extra range?

We upgraded our kitchen cabinets to the shaker style, our fridge-freezer and our carpets to the most luxurious ones!

Have you found your energy bills more affordable since living in an Avant home? 

Moving from a home with oil heating to gas has meant our bills have worked out cheaper for us. We also don’t need to put the heating on very often, as our new home is well-insulated and always feels warm. Moving from an old, cold house to a cosy and warm new build has been the best decision we have made! We have also noticed our electricity costs have gone down since moving in too. 

How has your life changed since you moved into your Avant Home?

We’re about 15 minutes closer to our families, friends and the nearest supermarket which is more convenient. It has made our lives much easier, and we are so happy here. Everyone we’ve spoken to on the development is lovely and we’re always greeted by smiles when we pass other residents. 

Do you have any tips for anyone looking to buy with Avant Homes?

Don’t feel nervous about speaking to the Sales Advisors and ask as many questions as possible. Our Sales Advisors were the most lovely and friendly people, who genuinely wanted to support us on our home buying journey.

Have you been inspired by Katherine and Harvey’s buying story?

Are you looking for your first home?

Discover your ideal, affordable home at one of our fantastic developments across the UK. 

Click here to find your new home.

Want to share your Avant buying story? Send us a message on Instagram @avant_homes.