MAUREEN FLIES THE NEST AND BUYS FIRST HOME – AGED 63

A lady from Bridgehill, Consett, has flown the nest and bought her first home, at 63 years of age

Maureen Hopton, who previously lived with her parents, has purchased a new bungalow at Amethyst Homes’ Regents Park development in Consett. And although she was already eight years old when The Beatles released Sgt. Pepper – including the song inspired by a teenage runaway, ‘She’s Leaving Home’ – Maureen’s story has been a different affair, as it’s been 55 years before she took this first step on to the property ladder.

Maureen now lives just a few doors away from her childhood friend, Rose Moir, 64, from Blackhill in Consett – and it was this ‘golden friendship’ of over 50 years that set the wheels in motion.

“I guess it is a little unusual to be a first time buyer at my age but the chance to live so close to Rose and when I saw how lovely these new bungalows are, made it an easy decision”, said Maureen. “I’m now nicely settled in and enjoying finally owning my own home.”

Rose added, “Maureen and I first met on the playground at Blackhill close to the Highgate football field. We used to walk home from our respective schools together, laughing all the way – and we still enjoy a good giggle today, going on plenty of holidays and trips away. The development is fabulous and our neighbours are great. It is quiet and close to all of the things we need. Just as I was, Maureen was really impressed by the bungalows and how nicely presented and spacious they are. She didn’t need much persuading to make the move!”

Established in 2013, Amethyst Homes has built its business around its customers, with a strong emphasis on providing quality, sustainable homes in communities in which people choose to live and work. To date it has delivered over 350 properties in the North East. 

The development at Regents Park is currently in its fifth phase and has already seen over 250 new homes completed. Amethyst is also building on two other developments – delivering 55 homes at The Meadows in Stillington, close to Stockton-on-Tees and 59 homes at Sleekburn View, in South-East Northumberland.

Both Regents Park and The Meadows won Premier Guarantee, Quality Recognition Awards in 2021, for the high standard of properties being delivered.

For more information and the range of properties available, please visit: amethysthomes.co.uk