Starting again at 37 after a relationship breakdown felt daunting, and owning a home seemed out of reach. But Shared Ownership made it possible for me to find our dream home and start planning for the future again.

Kendra Kitson’s Snugg Homes story…

“The main reason I wanted to move was to create stability for my children, especially with my daughter due to start high school locally. After renting for a few years in an area that never truly felt like ours, I knew it was important for us to have somewhere we could finally call home. With rising rental costs and the uncertainty that came with it, I didn’t feel like I was giving my children the safe, settled environment they deserved. The area we lived in was further away from work, school, and family because it was one of the few affordable options available to us at the time, which meant more travelling day to day and added to the overall strain.

Before purchasing my home, I was making ends meet following a relationship breakdown. I was renting a property that didn’t meet our needs and never felt like somewhere we could settle long term. Deep down, I always knew I wanted to get back to the area near my children’s school, where we could rebuild.

I first came across Shared Ownership when I saw advertisements for ‘The Seasons, Wigan’ on Facebook through Snugg Homes. At first, I’ll admit, I didn’t think moving into a new build in such a perfect location would be possible for me. As more phases of homes were released, I kept looking but dismissed it, convincing myself it wasn’t realistic. However, after doing more research and pushing past that initial feeling that it was too good to be true, I decided to take a chance and apply for what felt like a home I could only ever dream of.

What really drew me to Shared Ownership was the opportunity it gave me at a time when I didn’t think home-ownership was an option. Starting again at 37 after a relationship breakdown felt daunting, and owning a home seemed out of reach. But Shared Ownership made it possible for me to find our dream home and start planning for the future again. Knowing I can gradually increase my share in the property when I’m financially ready gives me a sense of control and reassurance. With the cost of living continuing to rise, the fact I now pay less each month than I did when renting privately, and have the security of a mortgage, has lifted a huge financial weight. It means I can manage my finances more confidently while still providing for my children.

Since moving into my new home, my life has changed completely. From the moment we walked through the door, it just felt right, it felt like home. The children are so happy to have their own space, and for me, there’s a huge sense of relief knowing this can be our forever family home. I’m no longer struggling to get by in a rundown rental property. Instead, I feel proud to be a homeowner again, living in a beautiful, spacious new build that I can truly call my own.

My experience with Snugg Homes has been amazing from start to finish. Every interaction was filled with reassurance, support, and clear advice. There was always someone there to answer my questions, which made such a difference throughout the process. I have to give a special mention to Jackie. She went above and beyond to make sure I felt supported every step of the way. Her communication was excellent, and she even remembered the small personal details, like keeping the house a surprise for my children, which meant so much to me. She made what could have been a very stressful experience feel much more manageable and personal.”

Kendra x