From renting above a pub to buying their first home: Terry and Jade's Shared Ownership journey
For Terry and Jade, buying a home of their own was always the goal. After renting above a pub, they knew they were ready for a place where they could put down roots and start their next chapter together.
That dream became a reality when they bought a 25% share in a one-bedroom apartment at Phase One of Wharf Twenty One, the new riverside development in Shoreham-by-Sea, through Shared Ownership.
The moment they stepped inside the show home, they knew they'd found the right place they knew they'd found it.
Shared Ownership made that dream a reality. With a smaller deposit, it offered an affordable route to home ownership, and the couple say the whole process was much easier than they expected.
"There was so much great communication throughout, and it was genuinely stress-free" said Terry.
Now settled into their first home with their baby boy, Odin, it's the sense of community that has surprised them the most. From meeting neighbours on the rooftop garden to spending time in the shared outdoor spaces, they've found much more than just an apartment.
"It's not just a building block; you’ve got lots of communal areas. Actually, all of us residents meet up every now and again on the roof. It’s really, really nice. I’m such a social butterfly so I really like that" says Jade.
The location has been another big bonus. Just 10–15 minutes from the beach, close to local shops and only a short drive from work, Wharf Twenty One has given them the lifestyle they were looking for.
"It’s always been a lovely place, Shoreham, and the amount that’s being invested in it at the moment, you’d be silly not to get a little slice before everyone else jumps on board” adds Terry.
Most importantly, it's given them a place to watch baby Odin grow. Terry and Jade can't wait to see him take his first steps, ride his bike around the communal spaces and make memories in a home that's truly theirs.
Their advice to anyone thinking about buying a home?
“Don't rule anything out. Explore all your options because you might find Shared Ownership is exactly what's right for you" Jade said.
With Phase Two of Wharf Twenty One now launched, alongside Dock Makers Quarter just across the road on Surrey Street, the couple are already thinking about the future. As their family grows, they'd love more space.
“Our next move is to hopefully upgrade to a two-bedroom so he has his own room” explains Terry.
And who knows? There may even be another addition to the family in the future (if Jade can get Terry on board!)
Watch the full case study video below.