Rachel and Valentine: “Countryside has set up a lovely community”
Just one week after moving into their new home, Rachel and Valentine's daughter made an early arrival. Read their heartwarming story…
24 Sep 2024

When first time buyers, Rachel and Valentine, completed on their brand new three bedroom home at Millbank Lock in June this year, little did they know that just one week later they’d be joined by their brand new baby girl.

Baby Clementine surprised her parents by arriving earlier than expected, and they’ve been kind enough to share their whirlwind journey with us here.

The homebuying dream

After saving for their deposit for four years, teachers Rachel (28) and Valentine (37) bought their first home together at Millbank Lock in Partington. 

With a baby on the way, the couple were keen to stay living close to their parents in nearby Sale and a tour of the show home gave them a glimpse of what their life could be like. There was no looking back.

The new home ticklist

“It was the blank canvas that appealed to us at first - we loved that we were able to choose our kitchen and bathrooms and that everything is new and has never been used.” Rachel said. 

“The kitchen is by far my favourite part of the house, but we were also influenced by how energy efficient it was. This is something that was really important to us, both to keep costs down, but also for the long term benefits and our children’s future.

“We were so excited when we moved in - and having neighbours moving in at the same time really added it. It felt like Freshers Day at university, when you all move into your new accommodation.”

The early arrival

“We were only in the house for a week and Clementine arrived ahead of schedule. I was so thankful for the sparkling kitchen and plush carpets and it was such a relief we didn’t have any renovations to do!

“The care we received from Ethan (the site manager) and Carol (the sales consultant) after moving in gave us real peace of mind too. I got taken ill after Clementine was born and they both offered to help if we needed anything.

“The neighbours were really supportive too, mowing the lawn and giving us presents when the baby was born. I feel that Countryside has set up a lovely community, just by building houses - if we ever need to move from here, we would use them again and we’d happily recommend them to friends and family.”