For Stephen Sales Advisor Karen McDonald, selling homes is not just a job, but a passion.
However, having worked on a number of sites throughout Perthshire, Angus and Fife during her near-20 year career with the Perth company, her current role at Chapelton, near Aberdeen, adds a new dimension.
Here, just a short commute from Scotland’s oil capital, Stephen are delighted to be involved in creating Scotland’s largest new town. For Karen, this means not only selling homes, but selling a lifestyle.
Chapelton is gradually taking shape as a highly sought-after town where residents can live, work and play. Ultimately comprising around 7,000 homes, a series of neighbourhoods are being created, the first of which is Cairnhill. These neighbourhoods will offer a variety of houses, shops, offices, community facilities and schools that combine traditional materials with contemporary features.
Stephen is very much making its mark within Chapelton, with the recent launch of several two and three bedroom cottages, set in attractive courtyards and complimenting their existing range of two to six bedroom homes.
The development has already received plaudits from the housing industry, with Stephen awarded a Commendation in the Homes for Scotland Awards 2016 for its contribution to the first phase.
Karen said, "We really are selling a lifestyle here and have every confidence that Chapleton will become one of the most sought-after communities in Scotland. From cottages to substantial villas, there is something for everyone, from professional couples and downsizers to growing families. Anyone who sets foot on site is very impressed by what they see, from the size to the finish of our homes.
"The town really will be self-sufficient, with a several businesses already thriving, from a nursery and café to a beauty parlour. Countless events are also bringing the growing community together throughout the year, from our recent Easter egg hunt and bike rides to fun runs and even a farmer’s market.
"There’s a real sense of space and freedom with 40% of the entire development set aside for ‘green space’, creating an open, family feel. With coloured heritage style doors, beautiful paint tones, lovely lanes and great street lighting, there really is a fabulous community spirit forming in Chapelton, and we look forward to welcoming more visitors in the weeks and months ahead."
So, what’s left for sale at Chapelton?
In terms of the Stephen cottages, 11 of the original 20 are now occupied, with nine remaining. There have also been two recent sales of villas, leaving one three bedroom and two four bedroom villas remaining for sale.
Beautifully showcasing the quality of the homes on offer at Chapelton, the four bedroom 'Melfort' is open from Thursday to Sunday, midday until 4.30pm and a second cottage showhome is currently being planned, due to welcomes its first visitors in May.
Karen added, "There’s a lovely mix of residents in our cottages, with their appeal extending from downsizers to young couples and families. The larger villas are appealing to families with their open plan kitchen / diners, garages and lots of storage space. There really is something for everyone here."
The next phase will include a range of two, three and four bedroom homes and, in respect of our current homes, there are a few incentives available, including assistance with Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), free flooring and landscaped gardens. Part Exchange can also be considered as a standalone incentive.
