James Newman Case Study | Berkeley Inspiration

Moving to Sevenoaks From London: James’ First-Time Buyer Story

For those looking to move out of London, many areas in Kent offer peaceful, well-connected alternatives to big city life. Ranging across London's outskirts to the coast, Kent can be a great place to live if you’re looking for a change of scenery, without missing out on the capital’s opportunities.

Reasons like these have made Kent a popular choice for families and first-time homebuyers—like James Newman.

As a lift engineer working in the capital, James needed easy access to London, with a location that balanced work and leisure. For James, Ryewood—a picturesque new neighbourhood near Sevenoaks by Berkeley Group—was just the answer. Read on to learn more about James’ experience of moving to Sevenoaks.

James’ Story on Moving to Kent

James is now the proud owner of a two-bedroom apartment at Ryewood, a picturesque neighbourhood by Berkeley.

While our Ryewood development is now complete, we have many other new homes for sale in Kent, including desirable areas such as Paddock Wood, Hildenborough and Cranbrook.

We spoke to James to find out how his life had changed since moving from London to Kent, surrounded by the scenic lakes and greenery of the expansive Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.

New build apartments at Ryewood development, near Sevenoaks, overlooking a large green space.

Why Did You Decide to Move to Kent?

Previously based in Croydon, James had never considered moving, let alone living outside London. That was until his Kent-based father suggested he visit one of our developments.

"I wasn't actually looking to buy a new home, but one weekend I went to visit my Dad, who suggested I take a look at Ryewood. He lives fi ve minutes away and has a good friend living at the neighbourhood. Until then, I'd never even considered living in Kent, but decided to visit it just in case.

The Berkeley team were fantastic from the moment I entered the development, taking me to a two-bedroom apartment which I immediately set my heart on. The high-quality of the new build property really appealed to me, and I loved the open plan layout of the kitchen and living room.”

- James Newman, Berkeley Group homeowner

After visiting the site and exploring the local area, James wasted no time securing his new home in Kent.

An assortment of treadmills and cross trainers at the Ryewood residents' gym.

What Drew You to This Location?

For James, the proximity to his father and the attraction of countryside living were key factors enticing him to Kent.

“Not only was I impressed by the high standard of the build, and the facilities such as the onsite gym, but the location is fantastic. I'm now very close to my Dad, but I also love being so close to Sevenoaks where there are some great restaurants and Knole Park.

Being right next to Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve is also perfect, it's such a beautiful location and I love exploring it.”

- James Newman, Berkeley Group homeowner

It was also important to James that his new home be a commutable distance from London. Kent was the perfect place for this, offering more space and access to the countryside, with London just a short train ride away.

"Importantly, Ryewood provides easy access to London, be it by rail or road. I generally commute via car into London, but should I wish to take the train I know the journey from Dunton Green station is an easy one".

- James Newman, Berkeley Group homeowner

What Was Your Experience With Home-Buying Schemes?

James used the Government Help to Buy scheme to get on the property ladder. As a first-time buyer, James could purchase his two-bedroom apartment using the scheme. With just a five per cent deposit, he secured his new home with Berkeley Group.

"Help to Buy made it all possible, without it I certainly couldn't even have considered buying such a high-quality new build apartment, especially in such a prime London commuter location".

- James Newman, Berkeley Group homeowner

The Help to Buy scheme has now ended in England and Scotland. However, Berkeley offers a range of other incentives for helping you buy, including our Own New Rate Reducer scheme. This scheme can give you access to lower interest-rate mortgages for a fixed period, enabling lower monthly payments.

Make the Move to Kent With Berkeley Group

Kent has so much to offer, including diverse scenery and access to a wide array of amenities close to your doorstep. Whether you’re looking for a slower pace of life or simply more space, this county can be a great choice for solo buyers and families alike.

There are many things to see and do in Kent, including local wineries, scenic walks and so much more. Plus, with seamless transport connections into London, our homes in Kent provide a multitude of ways to pass the time, whatever you enjoy doing.

If you’re considering your next move, search our homes for sale in convenient locations across the county and start enjoying the benefits of buying a new build.