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One of the top reasons for buying a new build home is that it is more environmentally friendly: emitting less carbon than an older home and having a higher EPC rating, therefore lowering utility costs. According to The Home Builders Federation:

• The average new build home emits 65% less carbon a year than an average older property
• 86% of new builds have an A or B EPC rating (compared to 5% of existing older properties)
• This makes heating, hot water and lighting costs 50% cheaper on average

But did you know that there are a lot of other features in new builds which are also helping the environment and supporting sustainable development and sustainable living?

For example, in the communal corridors at our Sheepcote Road HA1 development, the flooring used contains “ghost nets” – fishing nets which have been lost or discarded at sea and harm waters and wildlife. In this case, these have been retrieved and recycled into a durable recycled flooring material. At our Woodside Park N12 development, the communal corridors have Marmoleum flooring, which is a carbon neutral product that is also fully biodegradable. It is made with natural and renewable materials including linseed oil, wood flour, rosin and jute, making it an excellent example of eco friendly products used in sustainable housing development.

Also at our Woodside Park N12 development, the homes have integrated Lumi-Plugin LED downlights, which use very little energy. That’s not all, however, as these downlights are also combined with in-ceiling services such as heat or smoke detectors; these combined products mean less plastic and materials used, less wasted plasterboard and fewer deliveries to site (further reducing carbon emissions) since they all come as one, contributing to eco friendly living.

At Sheepcote Road HA1, within the individual homes, exposed soffits (in the living room and bedroom ceilings) reduce the materials required as no plasterboard is used. There is also no plasterboard to the perimeter walls of each home; these reductions of materials also have the added benefit of maximising space. The flooring is by Tarkett, whose designs contain on average 20% recycled content and are recyclable through Tarkett’s ReStart take-back and recycling programme. The product contributes to clearer air in the home as it has ultra low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, and is also phthalate-free – another strong example of eco friendly products.

At Woodside Park N12, the wet rooms were manufactured as a pod off site: a controlled factory environment for production means reduced embodied carbon as it creates less waste and fewer deliveries to a building site (bathrooms are otherwise complex and require a variety of trades to be on site such as plumbers, plasterers, tilers etc.). In addition, the Corian vanity top in the wet room is hygienic, renewable and repairable, reducing the need for new materials and harsh chemical products. EcoSmart shower technology means that 60% less water is required than conventional shower products.

The timber in the kitchen furniture is sourced from responsibly-managed forestry, and at Sheepcote Road HA1, the kitchen worktops, cabinetry and door fronts all reach site via one delivery, saving emissions in transporting materials. These carefully sourced materials also serve as eco friendly kitchen units, supporting more sustainable choices for residents.

At Pocket, all of our homes are built on brownfield land, making use of space which had already been developed rather than developing on valuable green space. Almost all of our schemes have solar panels, which generate their own renewable solar energy to contribute to the power supply in the building’s communal areas, creating increasingly solar powered homes. Double or triple glazed windows to each home reduce the need for heating for each homeowner and at our more recent schemes, 97% of the window product used can be recycled.

Additionally, landscaping and planting in communal spaces contributes to the biodiversity of the local area and helps pollinators to thrive. Many of our schemes include bat boxes, which are designed to support bat conservation efforts, encouraging bats into areas where there are few roosting sites. We also provide allotment beds wherever we can, which help residents to connect with nature, grow their own produce, and also contribute to furthering the biodiversity of the development.

Finally, the slightly smaller but well-designed nature of a Pocket home means the use of fewer resources overall, further reducing the carbon footprint of our homes and supporting an approach to sustainable living that benefits both homeowners and the environment.

Pocket are working harder than ever to help Londoners get onto the property ladder. We love this city, especially during the festive season.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Christmas markets in London to get you into the holiday spirit. A few of these hidden gems take place in neighbourhoods our Pocket communities call home. You can visit our development page to see where we’ve built our first time buyer homes and how they’ve become thriving communities.

Add them to your list and start planning your winter outfits!

Kingston Christmas Market: 13 November – 28 December 2025

Set on the riverside in Kingston, this European-style Christmas market is the perfect setting for you to feast, browse, and soak up the magic of the season.

Whether you fancy watching the Christmas choirs, sipping on a mug of mulled wine, or tasting a variety of festive food options, there is something for everyone!

Walthamstow’s Christmas Makers Market: 30^th November 2025

If you’re looking to support local, this one’s for you. Stroll through a market that truly honours handmade goods where you’ll find an array of authentic crafts from Walthamstow’s finest local artisan traders.

From illustrations, to candles and jewellery, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re looking for something to gift your loved ones.

Book your ticket on Eventbrite to secure your spot.

Harrow’s Christmas Light Trail: selected dates throughout December

Wander through the magic of Harrow’s Christmas Light Trail.

Experience a real sense of Christmas charm and excitement while you wander through this dazzling route filled with a variety of festive food and beverage trucks. Pets are welcome too!

Barnet Christmas Fayre: 7^th December 2025

This years’ annual Barnet Christmas Fayre is happening on Sunday the 7th of December, with activities kicking off at noon.

Here you’ll be encircled by entertainment including buskers, choirs, activities for children, and plenty of food and beverage stalls to choose your favourite Christmas delights.

Southbank Winter Market: 3^rd November – 4^th January 2025

Head into central to one of London’s most iconic Christmas markets, located underneath the Hungerford Bridge and along the riverside of the Thames.

Surrounded by the twinkle of fairy lights, this is the perfect outing to spend with family or friends. Grab a warm hot chocolate as you explore loads of unique crafts made by independent creatives.

The Big Market at BOXPARK: Croydon: 23^rd November – 13^th December 2025

If you love to support local and are looking for some fun, unique pieces, The Big Market in BOXPARK Croydon is the place to be. Here you will find art, jewellery, records, vintage clothes and so much more.

While you shop, there will be a DJ on deck all day to keep the vibes up, and you won’t be disappointed by the great selection of food and drink options too!

Richmond Christmas Market: 23^rd – 24 November 2025

A two-day Christmas event set on the scenic riverside banks of Richmond.

This market will feature a range of brand-new traders where you’ll find festive gifts, and mouth-watering food to get you indulging in sweet and savoury holiday favourites.

Royal Mews Christmas Pop-Up Shop: 4^th November – 5^th January 2025

Buckingham Palace will have their first ever pop-up Christmas shop at the Royal Mews this festive season.

Located minutes away from the royal gates with gifts inspired by royal tradition. You’ll be able to enjoy a curated selection of sweet treats or fine wines, which you won’t want to miss!

Wherever you celebrate this festive season, be it Kingston or Croydon, there’s no place like London to call home.

If you’re dreaming of owning your own home in London, discover how Pocket can help you get onto the property ladder. Log into your My Pocket account to see which developments you’re eligible for.

Saving for a deposit and maintaining your weekly brunch habit might seem mutually exclusive, but they don’t have to be. All it takes is a well-thought-out savings plan – one that works with your budget and lifestyle – to make your home-buying dream a reality.

You make this city, so you should get something back. A home you can call your own. Somewhere you can put your stamp on. That’s where we come in. We built Pocket Living around the idea that everyone should have a fair opportunity to get on the housing ladder, and we’re here to help you get there.

In this blog, we’re sharing our top tips on saving for your first home, whatever your circumstances. From ISAs to bank accounts and more, we’ll help you understand everything you need to know about saving. Let’s get started.

How much do you need to save for your first home?

Before creating a savings plan, you need to know how much you need to save. Normally, you need at least 10% of the purchase price as a deposit. But there are several reasons why it’s advantageous to save for a larger deposit of 15%-20% or more, including:

Improved mortgage deals

The higher your deposit, the lower your loan-to-value (LTV). This means your mortgage lender could offer you a better interest rate.

Smaller repayments

With a larger deposit, you’ll borrow less money, meaning you’ll have smaller monthly mortgage repayments.

Better chances of getting a mortgage offer

If you have more money saved for a deposit, you’ll be more attractive to lenders when they conduct their affordability assessment on you. Plus, you’ll usually have more mortgage options to choose from.

Researching properties in your desired area will give you an idea of how much they sell for. If you’re interested in a Pocket home, remember that it will be priced lower than the surrounding market because we offer 100% ownership at a 20% discount.

Once you’ve worked out roughly how much you need to save, you can put together a realistic savings plan that will help you achieve your goal.

Ways to save for your first home

The deposit is the biggest thing you’ll need to save for when buying a home. As a first time buyer, this can seem a bit daunting, but putting a savings plan into action as soon as possible will make it more manageable. ISAs and bank accounts are a good place to start. Make sure you speak with an independent financial advisor for full details of specific ISA T&C’s.

Lifetime ISA (LISA)

A LISA is a government scheme that helps first time buyers boost their deposits. It allows you to save up to £4,000 every tax year until you turn 50, and the government will give you a yearly bonus of 25%, topping up your savings by up to £1,000.

Cash ISA

A cash ISA allows you to save without paying tax on the interest earned. At the start of each tax year, everyone in the UK aged 18 or over gets a total ISA allowance of £20,000. You can save up to this amount across all types of ISAs you have.

When it comes to cash ISAs, there are two types:

• Easy access: Also known as “instant access”, easy access Cash ISAs allow you to withdraw money whenever you want. Some are “flexible”, meaning that if you withdraw money, you can re-deposit the same amount in the same tax year without it counting towards your total ISA allowance.
• Fixed rate: With this type of cash ISA, you agree to lock your money away for a set amount of time – typically one to five years – getting a higher, fixed interest rate in return. However, if you need to make a withdrawal during the fixed term, you’ll probably be charged a penalty.

Stocks and shares ISA

Putting your money into a stocks and shares ISA means it will be invested in assets like company shares, government bonds and investment funds. The idea is that it will grow your money, and you won’t have to pay any income or capital gains tax on the profits or dividends you earn.

Due to the nature of investing, the value of your savings can go up or down. This makes it a riskier option, so it’s usually recommended to use this type of ISA for at least five years to reap the benefits.

Fixed rate bonds

Fixed rate bonds can help you grow your savings for a fixed amount of time, usually one to five years, with a guaranteed interest rate. Depending on the provider, there’s no limit to how much you can deposit each year.

The interest earned is taxable, but you can earn up to your Personal Savings Allowance (PSA), which is the total amount of interest you can earn each year across all of your bank accounts (except ISAs), without paying tax. The allowance is £1,000 for basic-rate taxpayers and £500 for higher-rate taxpayers.

Current accounts

If you need to withdraw money without notice, a current account is a good option. It allows frequent deposits and withdrawals without charges and can offer a better interest rate than an easy access savings account.

Easy access accounts

If you need flexibility, opt for an easy access savings account. You’ll be able to withdraw money whenever you like, but you’ll have a lower interest rate because of this.

Regular savings accounts

With a regular savings account, you commit to depositing a certain amount each month – typically £10 to £500. In return, you’ll receive a better interest rate than a current or easy access account, but there may be restrictions on withdrawals, depending on the provider.

There’s no denying that saving for a deposit is challenging, especially for first time buyers, as the cost of living squeezes incomes. But with some careful planning, financial advice and by taking advantage of the various savings accounts and schemes available, you can save in a way that works for you.

By offering Pocket homes at a 20% discount, we’re helping many Londoners take their first steps onto the property ladder. Explore our developments and create a My Pocket account to start your journey today.

Mortgage rates might not seem like the most interesting topic, but as a first time buyer, it’s important to understand what they are, what impacts them and how they could affect you.

At Pocket Living, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about stepping onto the property ladder. So, in this guide, we’ll explore the base rate, the forecast for mortgage interest rates and what you should consider as a first time buyer before committing to a mortgage deal.

What’s the base rate?

The Bank of England (BoE) sets the base rate of interest – officially known as the Bank Rate – which influences the economy and controls inflation. The base rate dictates how much you’re charged to borrow money from banks and lenders. A higher base rate makes borrowing more expensive, while a lower base rate makes borrowing cheaper. Therefore, the base rate impacts the interest rates offered on new fixed-rate mortgages and the standard variable rate when the fixed term ends. It also influences variable-rate mortgages, causing monthly repayments to rise and fall with it.

The BoE started raising the base rate at the end of 2021 to combat rising inflation. Since then, inflation has stabilised, and the BoE began lowering the base rate in August 2024. It’s currently set at 4% and has been since August 2025, with the next announcement due on 6 November 2025.

What’s the forecast for mortgage interest rates in 2025 and 2026?

What’s happening in the world makes it difficult to predict how the economy will evolve, which is why the BoE monitors global developments closely and reviews the base rate every six weeks. Inflation is still higher than the government’s target of 2%, so future cuts to the base rate will be made “gradually and carefully”, says BoE Governor Andrew Bailey.

Because of this, it’s hard to predict what’s in store for mortgage rates for the rest of 2025 and into 2026. According to HomeOwners Alliance, forecasters are split on what’s next. On one hand, the base rate could stay at 4%, keeping mortgage interest rates similar to what’s currently on offer. On the other hand, there’s the chance of another base rate cut of 0.25% before the end of the year, which could reduce the interest rates lenders offer on mortgages. If you’re thinking about buying your first home in the next few months, we recommend speaking to an Independent Mortgage Advisor (IMA) like Censeo, who can help you secure the best mortgage interest rate.

What this means for you as a first time buyer

We’ve all experienced the impact that global developments have had on the economy in the past few years. To say it’s been a challenge for first time buyers trying to save for a deposit would be an understatement. But the good news is that inflation is stabilising, and the base rate has gradually decreased over the past two years, resulting in lower mortgage interest rates than at the height of inflation between August 2023 and July 2024, when the base rate was 5.25%.

The takeaway? Keep an eye on inflation, as it impacts everything from earnings and budgets to the base rate and subsequent mortgage rates. Staying up to date with what’s happening in the economy will help you make an informed decision about when to buy your first home.

If you’re interested in a Pocket home, explore our communities and learn more about buying with us.

Buying your first home can be a bit of a minefield. From terminology to hidden costs, there’s a lot to get your head around. 

In this blog, we’re delving into the expenses you can expect as a first-time buyer. This will give you an idea of how much you need to save alongside your deposit to purchase a Pocket home.

First-time buyer costs

Reservation fee

Once you’ve completed your affordability assessment on My Pocket and viewed an apartment you want to buy, you’ll have to submit an Expression of Interest form to enter the lottery to purchase a home. If you’re offered one of the homes, you’ll be required to pay a £500 reservation fee. 

Property survey

Once the offer details are confirmed and conveyancing starts, you may wish to book a snagging survey with a chartered surveyor. This isn’t a requirement, but it can be useful to get a clearer picture of the property and any potential issues that could arise. Typically, a new-build snagging survey costs around £375.

Mortgage broker fee

When applying for a mortgage, it’s best to seek help from an Independent Financial Advisor who can help you find the best deal. We recommend using an IFA like Censeo Financial, as they specialise in affordable homes and know which lenders are available. They charge a broker fee of up to £495, which is payable upon application.

Mortgage arrangement fee

Sometimes, banks and building societies charge mortgage arrangement fees for setting up your loan. It’s a one-off charge, typically between £1,000 and £2,000, that can unlock better interest rates. You’ll have the option to pay it upfront or add it to your total mortgage amount, but in this case, you’ll pay interest on it. 

Conveyancing fees

After agreeing your purchase, the conveyancing process begins. You’ll appoint a solicitor to act on your behalf, and they’ll undertake searches and sort out all the paperwork.

Rates vary between solicitor firms, but you can expect to pay between £1,500 and £2,500 in conveyancing fees for a new-build leasehold property.

Stamp duty 

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is the tax you pay on property purchases above a certain price. For first-time buyers, the threshold is set at:

• No SDLT up to £300,000
• 5% SDLT on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000

Top tip: Keep an eye out for ‘stamp duty paid’ incentives, which we sometimes offer on Pocket homes. 

Moving costs

Moving your belongings into your home will incur some costs. You can keep expenses down by doing it yourself – maybe with the help of friends or family – and reuse boxes to minimise the cost of packing materials. 

If you’re moving furniture, you may prefer to hire professional movers. The cost of this will vary depending on things like the company and distance, but you can expect to pay a few hundred pounds for a professional moving service.

How to buy a Pocket home in London

At Pocket Living, we help Londoners become homeowners by offering flats for sale with full ownership and a 20% discount off the full market value. 

Get started by creating a My Pocket account and undertaking an affordability assessment for the development you’re interested in. Additionally, check out these saving strategies to help you reach your financial goals.

An Income Boost is a little-known guarantor mortgage scheme that lets someone close to you – like a parent, sibling, or even a friend – help your application without giving (or lending) you money. Their income gets added to yours, so you can borrow more without upping your deposit. That extra boost could be the difference between “almost there” and “keys in hand.”

What is an Income Boost Guarantor Mortgage (Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor)?

It’s a type of mortgage that lets you add up to four people (usually family) to your application as joint borrowers. Their income gets included when the lender crunches the numbers, meaning a bigger loan offer for you.

But only your name goes on the property deeds – that’s the “sole proprietor” bit. So while they don’t own your home, they do share the legal responsibility for repayments. If you stop paying, they’ll need to cover it.

Why would you an Income Boost Guarantor Mortgage?

It’s smart if you’ve got great earning potential but not-so-great income right now. Example: on a £25,000 salary, you might only be able to borrow £100k–£112.5k. But with Mum’s £38,000 added in, you might be able to stretch to £252k–£283.5k. That’s up to £152k more – a game-changer for your home search.

When can a joint borrower be removed from the mortgage?

Your joint borrower can be taken off the mortgage once your financial position improves and you can afford the mortgage by yourself; for instance, if your income increases to a level where you can borrow the mortgage you need without your guarantor’s income. Alternatively, they can come off if you choose to remortgage (subject to affordability) or sell the property.

What happens if a joint borrower passes away?

If the person supporting your mortgage passes away and you’re unable to afford the repayments on your own, it could mean having to sell the property, unless you’ve planned ahead. It’s always advisable to speak to a financial advisor before setting it up.

1. Is there an age limit for joint borrowers?
2. Yes. Lenders want the mortgage cleared by age 80. So for a 35-year term, your helper needs to be 45 or younger. Something to keep in mind if Mum or Dad are stepping in.

Nope. Only the sole proprietor (you) can live in the property. Even though they’re on the mortgage, joint borrowers can’t move in.

This blog post has been written in partnership with Tembo. For more information or to book a call with Tembo, click here.

Subject to affordability and eligibility criteria. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up with mortgage payments.

Being added to a borrower’s Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor mortgage (Income Boost) as a joint borrower could impact the guarantor’s ability to get credit in future.

Getting on the property ladder can feel like a daunting task for first-time buyers. With the average time to save a house deposit nearing 10 years (18 years in London), homeownership might sometimes feel out of reach. But with a Deposit Boost, you could make your dream of owning a home a reality sooner than you think.

A Deposit Boost is a type of buying scheme that allows loved ones like parents or grandparents to help give you a leg up on the property ladder, without needing to dip into their cash savings, investments, or pensions. Here’s how it works, some key benefits, and considerations to help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

How a Deposit Boost works

A Deposit Boost involves two mortgages. A home-owning loved one, like a parent or close family member, secures a small mortgage against their own property to release funds. This could be done through:

• An interest-only retirement mortgage to keep monthly payments low.
• A standard remortgage for accessing equity in their property.

The proceeds from this mortgage are then gifted to you as part of or your whole home deposit. From there, you’ll arrange your own mortgage, with a boosted downpayment thanks to your loved ones’ gift.

Key benefits of a Deposit Boost

1. Get on the property ladder faster

Saving for a deposit can take nearly a decade, but through a Deposit Boost, your loved ones can help you secure your first home sooner by speeding up your time to save.

2. Increase your budget

A larger deposit doesn’t just mean more up-front equity in your property. It can also increase your overall budget, potentially giving you access to homes that were previously out of reach.

3. Access lower interest rates

If you use your boosted deposit to purchase the same priced property, the extra money you put down will reduce what you need to borrow for a mortgage. This will not only reduce your overall loan size, but could also give you access to lower interest rates. Lenders see larger deposits as lower risk, so by putting down a larger downpayment you could get more favourable interest rates. This could save you thousands over the lifetime of your mortgage, making your monthly payments more manageable.

4. No cash savings needed from your Booster

Unlike traditional support that may require cash savings, the money is unlocked from your Booster’s property equity. This means they don’t need have savings, pensions, or investments to use in order to help you buy!

5. No financial links between you and your Booster

Both mortgages are kept entirely separate, meaning your financial health won’t affect your Booster’s, and vice versa. If one party misses a repayment, the other is not liable.

6. Potential to reduce inheritance tax

By gifting you money earlier in life, your Booster could reduce their future inheritance tax liability. This is because they are releasing money from their estate, which could give your Booster peace of mind if they are concerned about how much of their assets will be taken by the tax man when they die.

Things to consider before using a Deposit Boost

While a Deposit Boost can be a fantastic solution, it’s essential to weigh the potential challenges before moving forward:

• Risk of repossession

Like any mortgage, missed repayments by you or your Booster can result in serious consequences, including repossession of your property or theirs.

• Eligibility requirements

Boosters must pass a credit check and demonstrate their financial ability to make repayments in order to be approved for the small mortgage needed for a Deposit Boost. If they have significant existing borrowing or low income, they may not meet the criteria.

• Mortgage limitations for Boosters

If your Booster still has a mortgage on their property, they’ll need to have at least 50% of it paid off. This can particularly impact those nearing retirement or with limited equity.

This blog post has been written in partnership with Tembo. For more information or to book a call with Tembo, click here.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Always be sure to seek professional tax advice.

What is service charge?

Service charge is the contribution you pay towards the management, repair, and general upkeep of the building you live in. If you own your home on a leasehold basis, the services included and what you’ll need to pay for should be clearly set out in your lease.

In practice, this often covers things like cleaning, gardening, utilities for communal areas, repairs, and maintenance of any shared heating, lifts, and security systems.

Thanks to the Building Safety Act, service charges are now also likely to include costs linked to fire safety checks, compliance, and ongoing maintenance required under the new legislation.

If you’re buying a flat, service charge typically covers buildings insurance too. A portion of it may also go into a reserve fund (also called a sinking fund), which is there to help cover the cost of future or unexpected works to the building. It’s essentially a rainy-day pot for your building.

Service charge is usually paid to a managing agent, appointed by the building’s landlord or the Residents Management Company (RMC). They handle the running of the communal areas. Depending on your lease, it might be payable annually, twice-yearly, quarterly, or monthly.

How are increases calculated?

Service charge is typically reviewed once a year, with the next year’s forecast based on costs from the year before.

At Pocket, service charges are always calculated this way. This means they can go up, but they can also go down. If the building spends less than expected, the following year’s charge could be lower. That said, in reality, you can usually expect a slight increase each year, roughly in line with inflation.

Over the past few years, service charges have seen steeper rises due to inflation, increased energy and insurance costs, and extra requirements brought in by the Building Safety Act.

Homeowners have the right to request a breakdown of how the service charge is calculated and where the money is going.

Do all homes pay service charge?

If your home shares any part of the building with others, there’ll likely be a service charge involved – someone has to cover the cost of maintaining those shared areas.

This applies whether your flat is leasehold, commonhold, or share of freehold (want to know the difference? Check out our blog on leasehold and commonhold). There will always be some shared responsibilities that homeowners need to chip in for.

Usually, the amount you pay is based on the size of your home, so larger flats contribute more than smaller ones.

Do I get a say in how much my service charge will be?

That depends on how your building is managed – usually laid out in your lease if you’re a leaseholder.

At Pocket, every building is managed by a Residents Management Company (RMC). Every homeowner automatically becomes a member. Some go one step further and become Directors, helping to make decisions on behalf of the wider development.

While some costs (like insurance and safety compliance) can’t really be avoided, residents do have a say in other areas. This includes things like whether to bring in a new gardener, reduce lighting costs, or spruce up the lobby. These decisions can directly impact the overall service charge.

The RMC usually appoints a managing agent to take care of the nitty-gritty, day-to-day running of the building.

How do I know how much the service charge will be for the home I’m buying?

If you’re buying a new build, you should be given an estimated service charge early on. Once you’re further along in the buying process, your solicitor will receive a full breakdown of the expected costs for your specific building.

If you’re buying a resale home, the seller or their agent should tell you the current service charge payable.

The UK government’s new Commonhold White Paper could mark a major shift in homeownership, aiming to replace the current leasehold system with the commonhold model. But what does this actually mean for flat owners and buyers? In this guide, we break down the key differences between leasehold and commonhold, what the proposed changes involve, and how they could impact future homeowners – including those buying Pocket homes.

What is a leasehold?

A leasehold is a common form of home ownership in the UK, where you buy the right to occupy a property for a set period of time. It’s typically used for flats or homes in shared buildings, where the land itself is owned by a freeholder (more on them in a bit).

Lease lengths vary, and properties with fewer than 80 years left on the lease are unlikely to qualify for a mortgage. To sell or remortgage, the lease would likely need to be extended. Thanks to the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, new lease extensions now typically last 990 years.

Leasehold properties can be bought and sold on the open market, just like freehold homes. However, with all leasehold properties, there is an underlying freehold, owned by the freeholder – the person or company that owns the land the building sits on.

For older leasehold properties, leaseholders often pay ground rent to the freeholder – a fee that usually increases every 5-10 years. However, since the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022, new leasehold homes now come with a peppercorn ground rent – a nominal fee, often just £1.

Leaseholders also pay a service charge towards the upkeep and maintenance of the building and communal areas. This covers things like:

• Buildings insurance
• Cleaning of shared spaces
• Communal electricity and heating
• Lift and security systems
• General maintenance of communal areas

Part of the service charge often goes into a reserve fund to cover future major works on the building.

(Just to clarify: this refers to long leasehold properties, which is different from a short-term tenancy agreement that most renters sign.)

What is a commonhold?

With commonhold, owners own the freehold of their individual unit.

As a commonhold owner, you would jointly own and be responsible for the communal areas, along with the other unit owners, through a commonhold association. This means contributing to the maintenance and upkeep costs, similar to how leaseholders pay a service charge. The commonhold association determines how much these costs will be, in line with legal requirements for residential buildings.

Some commonhold associations may choose to hire an external building manager, with the costs shared by the unit owners.

One key difference? No ground rent – commonhold owners own the freehold of their unit, so there’s no need to pay it. This is also true for newer leasehold homes, thanks to the 2022 ground rent reforms.

What happens now?

As it’s still early days, the government hasn’t yet outlined the full requirements that developers and landlords will need to follow once the legislation comes into force. So, we don’t know exactly how this will affect new-build homes going forward.

Once the law is in place, developers will need to comply with the new rules. However, given the scale of these changes, it’s likely to take several years before they are fully implemented.

Are Pocket homes leasehold?

Yes – all Pocket homes for sale are currently leasehold properties. Lease lengths vary across our developments, ranging from 125 years to 999 years.

Each Pocket development has a Residents Management Company (RMC), made up of all the owners. Once all residents have moved in, the RMC takes over responsibility for managing the communal areas – similar to how a commonhold association would operate.

The RMC also has a say in what is included in the service charge and works with external building managers to oversee the running of the common areas.

There are also some benefits to the leasehold system. For example, managing agents can enforce regulations that benefit all residents – such as preventing noise disturbances, which helps keep the peace for everyone.

The starting point of time – and now, the starting point of homeownership.

Our new Charlton development, The Heights SE7, is ideally located in the heart of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, making it the perfect base to explore the area’s diverse surroundings. 45 one-bedrooms and 3 two-bedrooms homes are now available to first time buyers across all London boroughs. To celebrate this milestone, we’ll highlight the top attractions in the local area.

Greenwich town centre

Where to start? Well, it is the start of time, so a stop at the Royal Observatory is a no-brainer. From there, you can wander to the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the vast greenery of Greenwich Park. Don’t forget Greenwich Market, where the world comes to you! Think Thai food, Nepali cashmere, and South American coffee. If tea’s more your vibe, the Cutty Sark (a famous tea clipper) is just a two-minute stroll away. It’s free to admire from the outside, though you’ll need to pay for a tour inside.

Getting there: A 20-minute cycle or 177 bus from The Heights SE7 development.

Charlton House and Park

Charlton’s architecture is a mix of styles that all bring something unique to the table. Take Charlton House, an impressive Jacobethan manor house that hosts changing exhibitions, inspiring interiors, and events throughout the year. On the ground floor, you’ll find Frilly’s Tea Room, plus the Old Cottage Shop Café tucked away in Charlton Park.

Getting there: Just a 10-minute walk from The Heights SE7 development.

The 02 and Greenwich Peninsula

It’s been a quarter of a century since the Millennium Dome (as it was called back then) made its mark on the London skyline. Today, the site is home to the iconic O2 Arena, the more intimate Indigo at the O2, a designer outlet mall, a cinema, and plenty of restaurants and bars. North Greenwich Station, right next door, connects you to the Jubilee line, whisking you to London Bridge in just 7 minutes.

If you’d rather stay above ground, you can climb to the top of the O2 for a thrill or take a cable car across the Thames, both offering stunning views of Canary Wharf and beyond.

Getting there:  A 15-minute cycle or a 422/486 bus from The Heights SE7 development.

Charlton retail parks

Stretching about a mile along Bugsby’s Way, the retail parks here offer a wide range of shopping and leisure options, just a 10-minute walk from The Heights SE7.

While it’s not as independent as nearby Charlton Village or Greenwich town, you’ll find all the essentials for setting up home. Need furniture? Ikea, Next, and Home Sense have you covered. For food shopping, you’ve got M&S, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, and Lidl. Feeling adventurous with DIY? B&Q’s the place to go.

And if you’re after a bite to eat or a movie, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and an Odeon cinema nearby.

Getting there: Just a 10-minute walk from The Heights SE7 development.

Charlton Village

Much of Charlton falls within the ‘Charlton Village Conservation Area,’ with its commercial heart stretching east from Charlton House along the aptly named street, ‘The Village.’ Here, you’ll find The Village Greengrocers, offering a great selection of health foods and organic produce, while ‘The Bugle Horn’ is a popular pub set in a Grade II listed building. For pampered pets, head to ‘Top Paws Grooming Salon.’ Other handy services along the parade include a pharmacy, hair and beauty shops, and international food stores.

Getting there: Just a 5-minute walk from The Heights SE7 development.

Charlton Lido

Offering an Olympic-size heated pool, gym, café, and sunbathing space, there’s something for everyone at Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club. Its enduring appeal has kept it in the area since 1939. It may seem hard to imagine swimming outdoors in winter, but the pool is heated to 25°C, and in warmer months, there are sunbathing areas to soak up the rays.

Getting there: An 18-minute walk from The Heights SE7 development.

Oxleas Woods and Severndroog Castle

Perched on the highest point in South London, Severndroog Castle offers panoramic views of the area. Look north and west, and you’ll see the urban sprawl of Canary Wharf blending with the historic heart of Central London. On clear days, you might even spot the iconic arch of Wembley or planes descending into Heathrow. To the south, the green expanses of Oxleas Woods and Eltham offer a peaceful contrast. The Grade II-listed Gothic castle itself, built in 1784, features turrets and ornate ceilings. Take in the views from the viewing deck, relax in the tearoom, or explore the surrounding Oxleas Woods. On the first Sunday of every month, a popular farmers’ market offers local arts and crafts, baked goods, and delicious food.

Severndroog Castle Viewing Platform and Galleries opening times: Sunday – 10:00am – 4:00pm (last entry 3:45pm)

Getting there: A 10-minute cycle or 486 bus from The Heights SE7 development.

Woolwich

Just a short journey east from Charlton, Woolwich boasts fascinating naval and military history and some impressive architecture. From the new Elizabeth line station (only 14 minutes to London Liverpool Street), head towards the river and explore the pedestrianized Royal Arsenal area, home to an array of eateries and a farmers’ market on the second and last Saturday of each month. ‘Woolwich Works’ is an important cultural hub where you can join dance classes, watch comedy, play chess, or relax with a hot drink at the on-site café. At ‘Punchdrunk,’ enjoy a unique theatre experience where you’re free to roam the performance spaces – you’ll likely see something new each time you visit.

Getting there: A 15-minute cycle, multiple buses, or an overground train from The Heights SE7 development.

Plumstead Common

Around 20% of the Greenwich borough is made up of green space, and Plumstead Common offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling Plumstead community. The common features a nature reserve, gentle slopes, lakes at ‘The Slades,’ and outdoor gym equipment. Just off the common, ‘The Slade Café’ offers a quirky spot for brunch – set in a converted 1930s public toilet. ‘The Plumstead Pantry’ is another beloved local fixture.

Getting there: A 15-minute cycle from The Heights SE7 development or the 53 bus.

Looking to call Charlton home?

It’s an exciting time for the borough. The Elizabeth line has recently joined the Jubilee line, DLR, overground, boat, and London’s only cable car. The opening of the Silvertown Tunnel in April 2025 will also provide free bus journeys across the Thames for those who’ve lived in the Greenwich borough for at least 12 months and offer a free shuttle bus for cyclists through the tunnel.

The Heights SE7 consists of 45 one-bedroom Pocket flats (two of which are wheelchair adaptable) and 3 two-bedroom Pocket flats. Just a 5-minute walk from Charlton Station, it’s perfectly placed for transport links – making it easy to explore Greenwich or head to the city.

Pocket offers discounted homes exclusively for locals, giving them the chance to own a piece of the city they love. Our homes are unique, we sell them at a 20% discount compared to other one-bedroom flats in the area. Pocket is an alternative to shared ownership—no rent, and you own 100% of your home from day one.