How finding a home led to finding love

Love stories often start in the most unexpected places; a coffee shop, a chance meeting on the street, or maybe even in a library. But for Karen and Tim, their story began right next door.

After years of living independently in adjacent Bromford Shared Ownership apartments at Wychbury Fields in Hagley, Stourbridge, the two fell in love. Their journey took them from neighbours and friends to a couple who not only found each other but also their perfect home together.

The perfect place to start

Both Karen and Tim were looking for a fresh start. Tim, a 61-year-old HR professional, had been renting for a few years and was eager to get back on the property ladder. Karen, 59, and a HSE professional, wanted to downsize from her large Worcester home and find a lower-maintenance lifestyle.

"I always really liked the area and was excited at the prospect of moving," Tim shared, recalling his move into his apartment in 2019. Karen noticed the apartments while driving by and was impressed with how nice they looked. She was delighted to find out she could afford one through the Shared Ownership scheme.

"My apartment was well-built, cost-effective, and well-looked after," she said. "It was perfect that Bromford welcomes anybody, not just families."

From neighbours to new love

Living so close to each other, Karen and Tim quickly became friends. They were part of the same social group and enjoyed evenings together, whether it was for a friendly game of Scrabble or a shared supper in the communal garden.

"We were so lucky to meet after ending up living next door to each other," Karen reflected. "The community at those apartments was lovely. We made loads of new friends and shared some brilliant social events and evenings together."

As their friendship deepened, they realised their connection was something more. They decided they wanted to take the next step and move in together. While walking their dog, Tyrion, they stumbled upon a two-bedroom house nearby and were thrilled to discover it was another Bromford home.

A New Chapter

For Karen and Tim, the decision to stay within the Bromford community was an easy one. "We knew that this meant the quality of the property would be good, that it would be well maintained, and it wouldn’t be very old either," Tim explained. The house was the perfect size for them, complete with a small, manageable private garden.

Thanks to Shared Ownership, they were able to sell their individual apartments and purchase their new house outright. "Since moving in, we haven’t looked back," Tim said.

Karen and Tim's story is a beautiful example of how the right home can bring you more than just a place to live, it can also bring you the person you're meant to be with.