Hampshire couple in mid-forties step onto the property ladder thanks to Deposit Boost scheme
A Hampshire couple in their mid-forties have finally achieved their long-term goal of buying their own home thanks to Barratt David Wilson Homes’ Deposit Boost scheme.
Having previously rented in Southsea for seven years, Icynth Ferrao and Cherelene Noronha have purchased a four-bedroom Ingleby house at Forest Walk in Curbridge where they are settling in with their three children.
Icynth and Cherelene were able to increase their deposit to 10% and secure a better mortgage rate thanks to Barratt David Wilson Homes’ Deposit Boost scheme – an incentive which will top up savings with an extra 5% contribution.
Commenting on their purchase, Icynth said: “We couldn’t have done it without the Deposit Boost. During our search, our options had been limited, and we didn’t want to be left with nothing after putting down our deposit. It’s meant we can invest leftover savings into making the house feel like a home. We’ve bought new furniture and are planning to convert the garage into an office for home working.
“It’s been a long journey saving to buy and it’s such an amazing feeling to know we finally got there. We’d looked far and wide for our first purchase and hadn’t been able to secure deposits elsewhere, but Forest Walk was the development we really connected with. Thankfully, the sales team told us about the Deposit Boost scheme, and it meant we could say yes to the property we really wanted.”
According to a recent BBC report, the average age of a UK first-time buyer has climbed to 34 with many having to find larger deposits.
The couple – both 45 – first began house hunting in July 2025 with hopes set on a bigger home for their young family complete with a garden, easy parking and good transport links.
Cherelene said: “Having lived in a busy city centre with limited parking, we knew a driveway was a must-have. We’ve got a young family too, so more space was important. We love our bigger, brighter garden and it’s quieter too – a luxury we didn’t always get to enjoy in the city centre. I’m so excited to start building a future here with my family and I know the kids love it too.”
Surrounded by countryside, Forest Walk at Whiteley Meadows is home to a collection of stunning new-build homes. Walking trails and a choice of schools and nurseries nearby make it the ideal pick for families.
Sales Director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton Division, Tammy Bishop, said: “It’s wonderful to know we’ve helped make Icynth and Cherelene’s dreams of buying their own home a reality. After dedicating so much effort to saving, it can be really disheartening to know a deposit for a home you love is just out of reach. Our Deposit Boost scheme leads to better mortgage rates, extra budget to furnish and decorate, and a little less to save.”
Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton Division is currently building new homes across Hampshire including Forest Walk in Curbridge and Pebble Walk on Hayling Island.