Couple wins dream holiday to Maldives with Chestnut Homes

Melissa Bunting, 20, and Korben Cole, 21, had dreams of owning their first home, but the couple got more than they bargained for after securing the trip of a lifetime in the process.

Lincolnshire housebuilder Chestnut Homes ran a competition offering buyers the chance to win a free holiday to the Maldives when purchasing a property at any of its developments.  

Having moved into a two-bedroom home at Chestnut Homes’ Millers Walk development in Autumn 2023, Melissa received the winning call in January 2024.

The couple purchased their home using the First Homes scheme, which allows buyers to own 100% of their home but pay 30% less than its market value. This significant saving allowed Melissa and Korben to begin their homebuying earlier than expected.

Melissa said: “Korben and I have been together for more than six years, and as farmers, we knew we wanted to settle in Lincolnshire, close to family and nature. We came across the Millers Walk development and immediately fell in love.

“We had been saving for a few years and felt ready to buy a home, but it was thanks to the First Homes scheme that we could afford to buy sooner. Saving 30% on the price of the house meant we could move quicker and put money towards making the house a home instead.”

Upon hearing they had won the competition, the couple were ecstatic. Having never been on a plane before, the pair travelled from London to the Maldives to enjoy a week in a luxury five-star, all-inclusive resort.

Melissa added: “We have never won anything before, and it was so unexpected which made it even more exciting. We are so grateful to Chestnut Homes for the amazing once in a lifetime opportunity. Not only did they make our dream of owning a home come true, but we had the bonus of starting our year off with an incredible trip as well.

“The entire process with Chestnut Homes was simple. We had great customer service throughout and we even got to make our mark on the home by choosing the kitchen and bathroom. We’re also really enjoying being part of the Millers Walk community and couldn’t have dreamt of a better first home experience.”  

Millers Walk comprises of two, three, and four-bedroom homes with prices starting from £169,950. The development offers homes ideal for first-time buyers through to growing families and downsizers.

Helene Key, sales manager at Chestnut Homes said: “We know how difficult the home buying journey can be, and often people forgo holidays to save for a home, so we’re thrilled we could give a young couple the chance to create amazing memories together.

“Sibsey is viewed as one of the best villages in the Boston area because of its blend of amenities, charm, and countryside views, and all of our developments have a great sense of community.

“The First Homes scheme offers a huge saving and has helped many buyers get on the property ladder by paying only 70% of the house price, while still owning 100% of the home. We aim to help people make home buying a reality, and this scheme is one of many we have available to buyers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or looking to sell your current home, we have something to help everyone.”