For Joanne and Shaun, both 36, finding the right place to raise their young family, was about more than just square footage, it was about community, comfort, and the kind of thoughtful design that makes everyday family life easier. Now happily settled into their four-bedroom home at Avisford Grange in Walberton, West Sussex by Linden Homes, Joanne and Shaun have found everything they were looking for.
After ten years living together in a number of areas across Sussex, including a flat, a renovation project and then their previous property, a 1960s-built converted four-bedroom house, they knew what they were looking for in their next ‘long-term’ home where they would raise their family. Their previous home offered the space they needed but lacked the practicality they wanted as a young family. Jo explains: “Our previous home was spread over three floors, and the layout just didn’t work for family life. We were there for about three years, but we realised we wanted something more family-orientated and that suited our day-to-day life as working parents. That’s exactly what we’ve found at Avisford Grange. Everything here has been so thoughtfully designed. The layout just flows naturally.”
Jo continues: “Small things make all the difference for speed and efficiency. In our old home, kitchen units were in awkward places and the fridge-freezer was tucked around a corner. Here, everything is just where you need it. It has all been thought out and just works.”
The practical layout has proven especially helpful with a toddler in tow, with bedrooms being spread out and the bathrooms not adjoining them. “Jo says. “We don’t have to worry about waking our daughter if we need to use either of the bathrooms after bedtime. It’s little details like that that make everyday family life easier.”
The couple have transformed one of the bedrooms into a dedicated home office for Jo, who works from home. She says: “Having a designated space to work from at home was essential in our search for the perfect property. It helps me to stay focused and keeps work and home life separate, which is really important.” Meanwhile, Shaun’s commute to a nearby seaside town for work, is quick and convenient. Having an EV charging point at home has also enabled Shaun to get an electric vehicle meaning more savings for the family.
Another selling point for Joanne and Shaun was the opportunity to move into a new build home, offering not just a fresh start, but instant peace of mind. With a young child, the low-maintenance nature of a brand-new property had huge appeal. Jo explains: “We just wanted to settle in and enjoy our time as a family without a never-ending to-do list hanging over us. Knowing everything is brand new, up to standard, and won’t need fixing or replacing anytime soon has been such a blessing. It’s allowed us to focus on making memories, not managing repairs and renovations.”
Energy efficiency was another factor that drew them to Avisford Grange. “The solar panels on our house were a big plus,” says Jo. “Our old house wasn’t anywhere near as efficient. Not only does it feel good knowing we’re doing our bit for the environment, but it’s also helping us save money on energy bills.”
Being born and raised in West Sussex, Jo already knew what a gem the area is but even she believes they’ve found something special in Walberton. She comments: “The location is absolutely perfect for us. As a young family, everything we need is nearby. There’s multiple parks, walks and a nursery and school just on the doorstep. We’ve also got a convenience store just a short stroll away, perfect for picking up the essentials and a lovely pub nearby, with great food and a beer garden, which will be such a nice spot to enjoy now that the sun’s making more of an appearance.”
As well as having excellent amenities nearby, the development is tucked away in a peaceful spot which is quiet, spacious and has a village appeal. Jo reflects: “We were really drawn to this particular development. It’s quiet, the houses are not built on top of one another, the garden sizes are generous, the houses are of high build quality and the development is five star customer rated. It’s the perfect blend of peace and convenience.”
Within just a few weeks of moving in, the family already feel at home. “There’s a lovely village feel here,” Jo says. “People are friendly, and it’s got a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It just feels like the kind of place that will be a perfect setting to raise our young family.”
With scenic nature spots and charming towns just a stone’s throw away, the family feels confident there will always be activities to enjoy. Jo shares: “We’ve got beautiful Slindon and Eartham woods nearby, which is especially stunning with the bluebells in bloom. Cathedral town Chichester and scenic Arundel are also so easy to get to, just a 10-15 minute drive in either direction. Both are full of character, with lovely boutique shops, independent cafés, and great places to eat and drink. Arundel has the castle, gorgeous lakes and wetlands, whilst Chichester offers a peaceful canal that’s perfect for a stroll.”
Whether it’s unwinding with a pint in the nearby pub, picking up essentials from the local convenience store, or exploring the wetlands of Arundel, life at Avisford Grange is about convenience and enjoyment.
Jo reflects: “Countryside, coast, great towns, it’s all right on our doorstep. We’re a short drive from the sandy beaches of Wittering with its tall grasses and quaint beach huts, as well as another sandy beach in Littlehampton, which also offers amusements and a promenade so a spontaneous trip to the seaside is always an option. It’s such a lovely feeling knowing our family will grow up with access to so many beautiful places. It’s the kind of lifestyle we always hoped of giving them.”
The area also suits Shaun’s love of carp fishing perfectly, with the tranquil Chichester Lakes providing a peaceful, scenic escape where he can truly unwind. For family adventures, Barnham railway station is close by, offering direct trains for day trips into nearby Brighton, Portsmouth, and London which are all quick and convenient.
The couple were full of praise for the Linden Homes team who supported them throughout the process. “The team at Avisford Grange have been incredible,” Jo says. “We honestly can’t fault them. Debbie was fantastic throughout the buying process, offering support but never pressuring us along the way. Ryan, the site manager, has been absolutely amazing and has been super quick to resolve any issues or snags, far exceeding any expectations that we had. We’ve felt informed and supported every step of the way.”
Jo comments: “We are so made up with our new home. We can really see it being such an amazing place for our young family to grow up. We love the space, the design, the location, everything really!”
