A Home in the Heart of Essex
Leekim Stewart, a 43-year-old entrepreneur and content creator, has found her dream home in the picturesque countryside of Essex. Alongside her husband and their two young children, she now lives in a converted barn that has become the center of their family life. The property, purchased for £1,160,000, is located in Maldon, a town known for its rural charm and community feel.
Life in the Countryside
Maldon offers a slower pace of life compared to what Leekim is used to. She describes it as a peaceful place where nature is ever-present, with wildlife and bugs making their home nearby. The area is filled with local spots that have become favorites, such as Mrs Salsbury, a cozy café offering breakfasts and afternoon teas, and Black Pig, a restaurant renowned for its delicious lobster.
Leekim moved into the property in March 2023, just six months pregnant. The transition from city life to the countryside was a big change, but one that she feels has been worth it for the sake of raising her children in a more tranquil environment.
Financial Journey to Homeownership
The couple’s journey to homeownership involved selling their previous business, another finance brokerage, which provided enough funds to purchase their former home in Chelmsford for £540,000. They later sold that property for £600,000 and took out a mortgage to cover the remaining costs.
Now, their monthly expenses include a mortgage payment of around £2,700 at an interest rate of 2.32% over 27 years, plus bills totaling approximately £1,200.
Mortgage Experience
The mortgage process was largely smooth, though they encountered a minor hurdle. The property’s drive was initially listed as belonging to the council rather than the previous owner. Although the ownership was technically correct, the paperwork had not been properly updated. This issue was eventually resolved, allowing them to proceed with the purchase.
Interior Design and Personal Touches
Leekim’s design style is a blend of her maximalist tendencies and her husband’s minimalist preferences. She has transformed her bedroom using IKEA Besta units, turning them into a window seat and adding deep warm pink paint and statement hardware. Her efforts were recognized when the room was shortlisted for the UFurnish.com Home Awards in the Best Showstopping Home Feature category.
She also draws inspiration from places like Soho Farmhouse and the vibrant atmosphere of Shoreditch, where she spent time exploring trendy cafes and bars. These experiences have influenced the decor of her home, blending modern touches with the historical character of the barn.
Space and Future Plans
Initially, the space felt limited, but the couple added storage solutions under the stairs, a window seat in the bedroom, and a bookshelf unit in the living room to make the most of the available space. They are considering extending the kitchen to create an open-plan living area, which would allow them to better supervise their children while cooking.
Despite the challenges, such as the need for rewiring due to fire hazards and the presence of a thatched roof, Leekim is happy with the property and sees it as a great base for their family.
Looking Ahead
While they currently love their home, the couple has future plans to move abroad. They’ve seen how affordable housing can be in other countries and are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to start their own homebuying journey, Leekim’s story highlights the importance of careful planning, financial preparation, and finding a home that truly reflects your lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the charm of a converted barn or the convenience of a modern apartment, the key is to find a space that feels like home.
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