From Australia to Bishops Vale: Devons Journery to Shared Ownership
From the very first viewing to moving into her new property took just two months — an impressively quick turnaround.
She secured a modern new‑build home complete with a private garden and contemporary amenities. Her experience offered valuable insight into what the process looks like from a customer’s point of view, and we’re excited to share her story as part of this case study
1. Where did you first hear about Thirteen Homes and Shared Ownership?
I first heard about Thirteen homes and shared ownership through a friend who bought her house a few years ago. I had reservations at first as it seemed to good to be true, but her positive experience made me decide to look into it further. I saw the new build estate and decided to put in an online inquiry!
2. What attracted you to Shared Ownership?
When I began looking into purchasing a home as a single owner with the deposit I had it seemed as though I was going to be limited to purchase something much smaller, older and run down than I ideally wanted. When I looked into Shared Ownership, I was going to be able to afford a brand new property with a garden and all the modern amenities I desired. The way I looked at it was if I purchased a property with another person I would still only own 50% anyway. It looked to be a fantastic way to get onto the property ladder with a relatively small deposit.
3. What stage of life were you in when you started looking to buy a property? (e.g first time buyer, relocating, upsizing, new family etc)
When I was looking to buy, I had recently relocated back to the UK from Australia and looking to buy as a first-time home buyer. I was unsure on whether I would be able to secure a mortgage due to limited address history. Thirteen were helpful with pointing me in the direction of a broker who could help and I was able to move the process along very quickly and secure a fantastic offer with a reputable lender.
4. Did you have any obstacles before buying a property?
The obstacles with buying that I had were related to my recent relocation back to the UK, this limited my lending options and deposit % I was required to put down. Throughout all of this all the suppliers and Thirteen were available for any questions I had through the process.
5. How did you find the process of buying through Shared Ownership?
My process of buying a shared ownership property was seamless. I first went to view the house on 12/01/2026, my mortgage was approved on 10/02/2026 and I moved in 05/03/2026. So, everything moved along nicely which worked well for me.
6. What’s the first home project you’re excited to tackle next?
The first home project I am excited to get started on is my Media Wall for the living space, I think this will really open the space up and create an inviting, cosy space to relax in.
You can follow Devon's journey by heading over to her Instagram: @southdown_house