Despite last year’s challenges there is good news from Pocket: we launched three new developments, helping more of London’s first-time buyers get onto the housing ladder. We still have a full team working to conduct socially-distanced viewings safely and in line with government guidance, or we’re able to offer detailed virtual viewings as an alternative. We’re also now approaching our 1,000th home – with several developments in the pipeline for London’s middle earners.
Interview with first time buyers India and Hallam
All of our residents are unique, so we love learning about how they settle in to their first homes. This interview with first time buyers India and Hallam dives into their favourite parts of their Pocket home at Arklow Road SE14.
Read MoreWorking from a Pocket home
Although working from home isn’t a new phenomenon, the pandemic has made remote working a central part of many of our lives. With that said, procuring the right working from home setup is essential to productivity and wellbeing, as small adjustments can help prevent strain, injury and fatigue.
Working from home in a smaller space poses its challenges, but there are many ways you can optimise your living space to accommodate a work station, even if you don’t have a home office. Read on to learn our top tips for working from a Pocket home.
Read MoreWill mortgage rates go up or down?
Will mortgage rates go down in 2021? We’ve been hearing a lot about mortgage rates trends in light of the Brexit trade deal and coronavirus, so we thought we’d unpack this a bit for all you first time buyers who may be thinking about buying your first home in the coming months.
Read MoreBolu’s story – Harbard Close IG11
When Bolu (24) moved home to South East London after graduating from university, she immediately started saving for a place of her own. “Owning a home has always been a goal of mine. I did not want to get stuck renting in London – it’s so expensive and, particularly as a single person, I knew it would be impossible to afford the monthly cost and save for a deposit. When I left university, I decided my best option was to move back in with my parents and save everything I could. I was determined, but even I didn’t think it would be possible by the time I was 24!”
Read MoreViewing a home as a first-time buyer: Questions to ask
Buying your first home is likely to be one of the biggest decisions of your life. Preparing the right questions to ask when viewing a home is a key element of the process, but too many first-time home buyers fall into the trap of rushing through viewings and turning up unprepared. This can lead to valuable time wasted and unnecessary stress.
Property viewings are an opportunity to find out everything you can to ensure that you find a home that’s right for you. By maximising every viewing, you will be equipped to make an informed decision about what home to buy. After all – you only get one chance to be a first-time buyer, so get it right!
Read MoreCan you move home during lockdown?
You have made the commitment to buy a new home – you pick up the keys, excited to start the next chapter. But we are all living in lockdown conditions at the moment in response to the coronavirus outbreak. All but essential activities have been stopped. The big question is, can you move home during lockdown?
The short answer is yes!
Read MorePocket lockdown stories
Every Pocket development has a thriving community of neighbours thanks to the city makers who live there. These first-time buyers have so much in common and are there to support each other.
Read MoreHow to save money in 2021
Ever check your bank account and wonder how your pay cheque disappeared so fast? Don’t stress – saving money is a problem that most people face at some point in their lives. Whether you are looking to pay for a house, or treat yourself to a nice holiday, knowing about ways to save money allows you to do the things you enjoy without worrying about the cost. Thankfully, it is never too late to start saving, and 2021 is a perfect time to think about how you can improve your finances. Find out some of the best ways to save money by using our saving tips below.
Read MoreThings to do in Walthamstow
Thinking of living in Walthamstow and wondering about things to do? You’re in luck, the borough of Walthamstow is alive with activity, sights to see, and places to visit. Not only is it home to a God’s Own Junkyard and William Morris Gallery, it is also a great spot to take a country walk, and has emerged as one of the best places to live in East London.