Hole in one for young apprentice at Crescent Gardens
Meet John, who took his first step onto the property ladder with shared ownership at Crescent Gardens.
The decision to own
When 21-year-old John McGinley’s parents retired and decided to relocate, he was faced with a big decision; rent or take a step onto the property ladder.
A trainee accountant based in the City of London, John had managed to save whilst still living at home. Combined with a financial contribution and support from his parents, this enabled him to buy his first home. John explains: “Initially, I thought I’d rent somewhere nearer the centre of London. However, I was lucky enough to be able to get a deposit together and didn’t want to get stuck in the rental cycle. Rents are so high, which makes saving impossible. Buying a studio apartment at Crescent Gardens in East Croydon meant I didn’t have to struggle with this. I’m extremely happy with my decision."
An ideal location
John bought his new top floor studio apartment, with a balcony and parking space, with shared ownership. He's ideally positioned for his commute to the City. East Croydon train station is just a short walk away, he can reach any corner of London within minutes.
Benefits for John
- Investing in his future and being able to save money on rent.
- 30 minute commute to his office in the City of London.
- Enjoying the diverse, urban environment with shops and cafes within walking distance.
- The perfect balance of exploring London or escaping to the countryside.
- Spectacular views from the top floor and a shared garden space for the summer.
The travel connections here were a major selling-point. I work from home two days a week and am based in the City for the other days. It takes me about 30 minutes to get to the office, which is less than my colleagues living in zone 2.
John at Crescent Gardens
Best of both worlds
Living in Croydon offers a brilliant balance of urban development and rural countryside. Just a five-minute drive into Kent or Surrey and John is in a completely different setting, surrounded by fields and a choice of premium golf clubs. Addington Golf Club, which is one of the top five clubs in Surrey, is a short drive away and one of his regular weekend destinations.
“As I have a parking space at Crescent Gardens, I’ve been able to hold onto my car. This means I can still visit my friends in the suburbs and also keep up with my outdoor hobbies. Croydon provides a brilliant base for working and going out in London whilst still enjoying more peaceful locations in the opposite direction.
"There are lots of commuters basing themselves here and the weekend options to either escape the city or explore London are another benefit of living here.”
Top floor views
John has discovered the benefits of living on the top floor of Crescent Gardens: “I’ve placed my work-from-home desk by the window to make the most of the floor-to-ceiling windows and natural light in my new apartment. The views from my balcony on the eighth floor are spectacular. The shared podium garden here is huge as well, so I’ll be using that space in the summer."
Hosting in his own home
John's friends can’t believe he bought his first place: "Most of them are still living with parents and saving money, hoping they can do something similar in a few years’ time. They’re here a lot, so I’ve invested in a couple more bean bags. I had a small gathering on New Year’s Eve and the fireworks from my balcony were spectacular.
"I’d recommend shared ownership to anyone weighing up their options for getting on the property ladder. I’m so pleased I decided to take the jump."
