After years of renting in Wembley, first-time buyer Darpit, a 33-year-old data analyst, bought a three-bedroom apartment at our Alperton development, The One Hundred.
With house prices skyrocketing in London, finding an affordable mortgage became very difficult, guiding Darpit to choose the route of shared ownership to get on the property ladder. Thinking outside the box, he was able to find the ideal home that met his requirements, as well as those of his parents and brother who live with him.
Shared ownership allows buyers to purchase a share of a property, typically between 25% and 75% of the property’s total value, with deposits as low as 5% on offer. Buyers pay a mortgage on their share of the home, rent on the remaining shares and a monthly service charge. This typically works out to lower monthly outgoings and initial deposit than purchasing a home outright.
The right time to buy
For Darpit, who’d been renting since moving to the UK in 2008, it felt like the perfect time to buy a home.
Having been in the UK for 17 years, I thought it was high time I bought my own house and left renting behind for good. We’ve lived in the Wembley area for a number of years, so it felt natural to look for a permanent home locally.”
The purchasing process was swift, and Darpit and his family were able to move in quickly. “It was all quick and simple. We viewed the property on the 1st of February 2025 and made an offer on the 27th – exactly one month later we had the keys. The property was ready to move into straight away which meant there were no delays and it felt immediately like a home.”
The perfect home
Darpit knew having three bedrooms was a non-negotiable to allow space for all the family to live comfortably, but they’re also enjoying some of the perks that came with their apartment at The One Hundred. “Having three bedrooms was essential, but a great bonus of our apartment is having two bathrooms. Most three-bedroom properties in the area only have one and so we’re really pleased to have the extra space.”
The apartment is the biggest property in the whole building, with large windows and a balcony space designed to maximise natural light. “The apartment is so spacious. The kitchen is lovely and bright, and the view from the balcony across the Grand Union Canal is really impressive.”
Ease of accessibility, through nearby transport links, was also a key factor for Darpit when choosing a home, particularly for his parents. “My mother works night shifts, so our new apartment’s close proximity to bus links is great for her safety, and everyone’s peace of mind, when she travels at night.” As well as transport links, having a lift was essential to accommodate Darpit’s father’s accessibility needs.
The family also enjoy outdoor spaces nearby, such as access to The One Hundred’s communal gardens, and the stunning canal-side walks on their doorstep.
Shared ownership with Guinness Homes
With mortgages on houses in London commanding a premium price, shared ownership was the perfect affordable solution for Darpit. In order to be eligible for the mortgage, Darpit paid a deposit of approximately 7%, which amounted to approximately £10,000.
Darpit bought a 25% share of his home, which amounts to £145,625, and pays rent on the remaining shares, which are worth £436,875.
“House prices in London demand high mortgage rates which simply weren’t feasible for me, so I’m grateful for how shared ownership has helped me to get on the property ladder, something which otherwise wouldn’t have been possible”
Properties at The One Hundred are available to move in straight away, subject to a £99 reservation fee, with 5% deposit options on offer. If you want to know more about shared ownership at The One Hundred, get in touch with the sales team today at 020 3819 0000, or enquire online.