A semi-retired couple in their mid-50s have praised their experience of buying a new build home after moving into Elivia Homes’ Saint George's Park development in Eastergate, near Chichester – and say they only wish they had done it sooner.
Michelle and Scott Bell recently moved into the previous four-bedroom show home, at the exclusive development after using Elivia Homes’ part-exchange service. The couple moved in just before Christmas and said the entire process exceeded their expectations.
The Bells relocated from a recently renovated two-bedroom bungalow in Lancing, seeking more space for entertaining friends and family and to be closer to their daughter, who now lives just five minutes away.
“The part exchange with Silverbridge Properties enabled us to move quickly, which was one of the main attractions,” said Michelle. “They bought our property, which took the pressure off us entirely. We were also given a licence to occupy the home we sold, allowing for a one-month transition period during which we could occupy both properties. This gave us a flexible moving timeframe, rather than having to move everything on a single day, making the whole transition far smoother.
“They also offered a profit-share scheme, which we hope to benefit from. Once Silverbridge Properties sells our home, if it achieves a price above the agreed amount set out in our contract, we will receive 50% of any profit above that figure in cash.
“The whole arrangement couldn’t have worked out any better and we can’t recommend it highly enough.”
Michelle, who works part-time for a charity, is also a talented baker and previously ran her own baking business with a friend. These days she prefers baking for friends and family – although she admits she has been encouraged to take her skills to television.
“I’d rather go on The Traitors,” she laughed. “Although everyone tells me I should do Bake Off.”
Scott, who is retired, admitted he had always been against buying a new build home – until he visited an Elivia Homes development.
“I was blown away by the quality and layouts,” he said. “From the new appliances to the underfloor heating, it’s all very impressive and well thought through. The service has been excellent too. I really can’t fault it.”
The couple viewed several other developments in the area but felt none matched the standard offered by Elivia Homes.
Buying the show home brought added benefits, Michelle explained. “We have a lovely landscaped garden, and some of the fixtures and fittings came with the house. It worked out very well.”
They are particularly impressed with the spacious layout of their home. “We love the downstairs layout and have a study which we’ve converted into a separate dining room for entertaining,” Michelle said. “The bedrooms upstairs are very generous, and we love having the added luxury of an ensuite. We have a good-sized garage and an EV charger.”
The move marks a return to a larger home for the Bells after previously downsizing.
“Ironically, we downsized to a bungalow a few years ago from a four-bedroom house and then realised we needed more room,” Michelle added. “All our friends and family love our new home.”
Communication throughout the process was also highly praised. “The team at Elivia Homes were excellent – there was never any pressure,” said Michelle. “We also used their recommended solicitors, who were very efficient and helped us complete the move in under a month.”
Another thoughtful touch was being invited to the property ahead of completion for a tutorial on using the underfloor heating and appliances.
“That was great customer service, as you can concentrate far more than if you’re being told everything on the day you move in,” explained Scott.
The ‘icing on the cake’ – no pun intended from baker Michelle – was a luxury hamper waiting for them on moving-in day. “It was absolutely perfect and we couldn’t be happier.”
Phil Kellaway, Sales Manager at Elivia Homes, said: “Michelle and Scott’s experience is exactly what we aim to deliver for our customers. From the quality of our homes to the support provided throughout the buying journey, we’re delighted they are so happy in their new home at St George’s Park.”
Saint George’s Park blends the best of both worlds to create homes of unrivalled quality and enviable character. From two-bedroom semi detached properties to three-bedroom, three storey townhouses and four-bedroom detached properties, Saint George’s Park offers a choice of beautiful homes to suit a range of budgets and lifestyles.
Over 80% of homes have now been sold, so don’t miss your chance to call Saint George’s Park or Foxhills, the adjoining development, home.
No appointment needed, or if you'd prefer to schedule a time, feel free to call the sales team on 07825 526825. The show home and sales office are open daily from 10am - 5pm