Shared Ownership enables former navy veteran to buy his first home
13 October 2025
After a lifetime of service in the Royal Navy and years spent renting, Nick Addison, 58, has become a homeowner for the first time by using the government-approved Shared Ownership scheme at Places for People’s (PfP’s) Carvers Meadow Development.
In the story below, Nick talks about how he secured the peacefully located three-bedroom detached house in Attleborough in Norfolk; a lovely area that, most importantly, brings him closer to his young daughter, Ruby.
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From renting to homeownership at last
A proud former Chief Petty Officer and Weapon Engineering Mechanic (Ordinance), Nick served in the Royal Navy for over 27 years, working on 10 warships and stationed across the globe. One of his most meaningful roles was helping train the Iraqi Navy, a seven-month deployment he remembers fondly. Following his retirement from the Navy, he continued to work in defence, first as a Field Service Engineer in Norwich, and for the last eight years as a Technical Author with BMT, where he updates technical manuals for Royal Navy ships.
But despite a long and accomplished career, Nick had always rented and never owned a home. That changed this June, when he picked up the keys to a beautiful three-bedroom detached house at Carvers Meadow, a place he immediately knew was right for him and was close to his 12-year-old daughter, Ruby.
“Shared Ownership gave me a route to finally get onto the property ladder.”
Nick comments: “I used to think I’d never be able to buy a home of my own, especially not somewhere this lovely. Shared Ownership completely changed that for me, and it gave me a route to get onto the property ladder, even at 58.”
A home that ticked every box
Following his divorce, Nick lived in Dorset for several years, but when his ex-wife and Ruby returned to Norfolk in 2024, he knew it was time to make a permanent move back too. He said: “I wanted to be close to Ruby, and to be able to pick her up from school on Fridays, spend weekends together, and take her back on Monday mornings. These simple moments just weren’t possible before.”
Nick discovered Carvers Meadow on Rightmove and instantly decided to visit the development in November 2024. It was the only place he viewed in person. He adds: “As soon as I walked into the house, I knew it was the one for me. It ticked every box, especially the large kitchen with a breakfast bar and utility room. It also has a double bedroom and bathroom for Ruby and a main ensuite bedroom and home office for myself; these were things I’d always wanted in a property of my own.”
Nick moved into his new home in June 2025, and he couldn’t be happier with his new lifestyle. His three-bedroom detached property features a generous kitchen/diner, breakfast bar, utility room, ensuite main bedroom, garden, and a driveway for two cars. Ruby loves her new bedroom and now enjoys regular weekend stays and school holiday visits. Nick continues: “I love to cook, and the kitchen/diner was a real clincher. Ruby loves her room, has her friends over, and feels at home here - which means the world to me.”
Building a future through Shared Ownership
Purchasing a 25% share of the £350,000 home through the Shared Ownership scheme, Nick secured a mortgage of £88,500 with a 5% deposit of £4,200. His monthly costs are just £200 more than what he paid in rent, but he now has the added benefit of home ownership and the ability to staircase to 100% ownership, which he plans to achieve in the future. He says: “Shared Ownership beats renting hands down. It’s allowed me to put down roots and build a future, not just for me, but for Ruby too.”
Now settled back in Norfolk, Nick is enjoying the peace and natural beauty of the area, with the coast, Thetford Forest, and the Norfolk Broads all nearby. He is also taking time to reconnect with long-time friends. He concludes: “This move has given us a better life. I have a proper home, I’m close to my daughter, and we’re creating memories together. I couldn’t ask for more.”
Shared Ownership homes in great locations
PfP builds Shared Ownership homes in desirable Communities across the country, helping people like Nick find a place they’re proud to call home. Shared Ownership allows Customers to buy a share of a home and pay rent on the rest, making homeownership more affordable and accessible, whether you’re a first-time buyer, key worker, or simply starting again.
Carvers Meadow, with its extensive grassland and the nearby tranquil Norfolk countryside, offers much to delight families. Nick and Ruby are looking forward to the development’s new park and playground opening this autumn. The local schools have an excellent reputation, with Attleborough Academy rated Good by Ofsted and Wymondham College which takes children from ages 4-18, rated Outstanding. For everyday essentials, Attleborough is a bustling market town, while the huge range of shops and vibrant cultural scene of Norwich are also within easy reach. Both Cambridge and London are conveniently commutable via the nearby train station.
We’re se pleased that Shared Ownership has allowed Nick to purchase his forever home – and make lasting memories with his daughter Ruby. If you’re keen to follow in Nick’s footsteps, why not read more about how Shared Ownership compares with renting?