For Becca Pate and Tom Peek, buying their first home together was something they had been working towards for years. Having both previously lived with parents just outside Tunbridge Wells, the couple were ready for a place of their own - somewhere they could settle, make their mark and start the next chapter together.
“We had been ready for a while,” said Becca, who works in marketing. “I’d spent years collecting things for a home, so once we got the green light, it was just about packing it all up and bringing it to our new home.”
The couple first came across The Meadows, Elivia Homes’ development near Uckfield, on Rightmove, spotting it as soon as the homes became available. Becca was already aware of Elivia Homes and the quality of its developments, but after a difficult experience with another housebuilder the previous year, she and Tom were careful not to get their hopes up too quickly.
Finding the right fit
While Becca had originally pictured buying a house that needed work, the reassurance of a new build soon won her over.
“I always wanted a doer-upper because I’m quite creative,” said Becca. “I like the idea of a project, but a new build was the best decision for us as it offered a blank canvas without the uncertainty and cost of a renovation. Everything was included and it had been done in such a neutral way that we could still make it our own.”
For Tom, the move also meant adapting to a quieter way of life. Having grown up in Essex, the village setting was a change, but one that quickly felt comfortable.
“It’s been a really easy place to settle into,” said Tom. “I commute to work and it’s only around 25 minutes away, so the drive is straightforward. It gives us the quieter village setting without making day-to-day life hectic.”
Making homeownership possible
A key part of the couple’s journey was Elivia Homes’ First Homes Scheme, which helped make taking the first step onto the property ladder more achievable. It really helped us,” said Becca, “and once we were approved the whole process was really easy. We had so much information and it felt simple, clear and straightforward.”
Since moving in, Becca and Tom have settled faster than they expected. For Becca, who had wondered whether the move would feel daunting, having their own space has made all the difference.
“I thought I was really going to struggle with the move, but I adapted straight away,” she said. “It’s so nice having your own space. I can’t count how many times I’ve said, ‘I can’t believe that this is ours’.”
Settling into village life
The village has also quickly begun to feel like home, especially for Becca as it meant she could provide more support for her grandad who lives in the nearby town. She also grew up in a town before moving to the countryside as a teenager, so the quieter life already felt familiar. For Tom, it has been a change of pace, but one the couple have embraced together.
Becca said: “I love the village feel, and there are so many places to explore. We’ve joined local Facebook groups too, so we’ve been able to get a feel for what’s going on in the local area.”
The support has continued after moving in. Becca and Tom have found the Elivia Homes team communicative, attentive and quick to respond whenever they have had a question.
“The aftersales team have been fantastic,” said Becca. “They’ve kept us in the loop, even with things we probably didn’t necessarily need to know. If we’ve had a problem, they’ve been really quick to come back to us. Everyone has been so attentive and friendly.”
For Tom, the personal approach has stood out just as much as the home itself. “It feels like a friendly development,” he said. “People say hello, and it feels welcoming. That makes a difference when you’re moving somewhere new.”
Looking back, Becca says she would happily recommend Elivia Homes to friends and family. “We looked at quite a lot of developers, and Elivia Homes felt different,” she said. “It feels personal. They weren’t bombarding us, but they were there when we needed them. I would 100% recommend them.”
For Becca and Tom, The Meadows has offered more than a first home. It has given them independence, a welcoming village setting and the chance to create a home that reflects them - all while feeling supported from the very start.
If The Meadows feels like the right place for you to lay down roots, just like Becca and Tom, then explore the development page or call 01825 480 199 to arrange a visit.
