Twelve new family homes have been officially unveiled at a development in Chapel Rise, Peterlee. Located off Matterdale Road, the properties represent a £1.7m investment in the town by believe housing.
Part of a £70 million investment programme by the housing association, in affordable accommodation, the new homes have been developed through m!ne – believe housing’s ‘Rent to Buy’ initiative.
Designed to help bridge the gap between renting and traditional home ownership, Chapel Rise is part of believe housing’s new build programme – which will see more than 700 affordable homes being constructed across the region up to 2022.
The contemporary development includes twelve three-bedroom properties; and all of m!ne’s properties boast modern kitchens, generous living areas, spacious bedrooms and front and back gardens as standard.
Danielle Huntington, new m!ne resident, said: “I am so excited about moving in. The attention to detail is fantastic. They have thought of everything for modern family living, from putting USB charging points in the bedrooms to including lots of storage space – which is a must when you have a little girl with lots of toys.
“It was also important to me to be close to my family and within an easy commute of work, and Chapel Rise certainly ticks those boxes. The added bonus is that the house also comes with a beautiful south facing garden so I really couldn’t wish for anything more.”
Residents of m!ne homes, also benefit from a reduced rate of rent, usually around 20% lower than they’d pay to a private landlord.
With the money saved, customers will be able to build up a deposit, with the option to buy their home after five years.
Rebecca Marshall, development project manager, for m!ne, said: “The m!ne programme was specifically developed to help people who are keen to make the transition from renting to buying, by enabling them to save for a deposit and assist them to take their first steps onto the property ladder.“
Rebecca adds: “Chapel Rise is the first of a number of new developments, and we are absolutely thrilled with the response we have had. Helping families like Danielle and her daughter really confirms why we do what we do.
“In the coming months, we will be releasing more than 100 further new properties and we look forward to welcoming many more people into their new homes.”
To be eligible for a m!ne property you must be at least 18 years of age and be a first-time buyer, or returning to the market after a relationship breakdown. You must also be in work and be able to evidence you are working at the time of initial letting.
m!ne’s next phase of developments include sites in Peterlee and Murton, full details are expected to be released in the new year.