A Journey to Homeownership in Bristol
Orima Kamalu, 36, and her husband have embarked on a rewarding journey of homeownership in Bristol. Their story is one of careful planning, creativity, and strategic decision-making that led them to their dream home. The couple moved into their three-bedroom property in June 2024, which they purchased for £629,000—£36,000 below the asking price.
Their success began with a thorough investigation using Rightmove, where they identified the potential for a good deal. This approach allowed them to take a calculated risk, ultimately leading to their successful purchase. Now, a year into their new life, Orima has transformed the space with bold color choices and unique interior design elements.
About Orima and Her Family
Orima is a consultant psychiatrist in the NHS, and her hobbies include DIY, arts and crafts, and binge-watching TV. She and her husband were studying and working in London until 2019 when they moved back to Bristol, her hometown, to be closer to family. They have a three-year-old son and a seven-year-old cocker spaniel, who are an integral part of their daily life.
The family now resides in Westbury-On-Trym, just north of Bristol. Known for its traditional charm, the area offers access to beautiful outdoor spaces like Blaise Estate, Baddocks Woods, and The Downs. Orima also enjoys FED, a local café that recently opened a new branch.
Financial Details of the Property
The property was listed for £665,000, but they managed to secure it for £629,000. They used the net proceeds from the sale of their first home as a deposit, which amounted to around £127,000. Their monthly mortgage payment is £2,400, and bills add up to approximately £1,200, including gas, electricity, water, broadband, and council tax.
Mortgage Process and Challenges
The process of securing a mortgage involved porting their existing mortgage debt from their first property to the second. This complex task was handled smoothly by their broker, who provided expert guidance throughout. Their current mortgage is split into two parts: a 3.29% fixed rate until 2027, and a 4.38% fixed rate until 2029, both with 30-year terms.
Interior Design and Personal Touches
Orima’s creative flair is evident in her interior design choices. One standout feature is the hand-painted fluffy white clouds on a bright blue sky in her son’s bedroom. This quirky touch earned her a nomination for Best Showstopping Home Feature in the UFurnish.com Home Awards.
Her inspiration comes from Instagram home accounts, where she appreciates the blend of traditional features with bold, earthy colors and statement pieces. Her favorite room is the kitchen, which she transformed despite her dislike for cooking. The Victorian dresser and drinks cabinet sourced from Facebook Marketplace are highlights of this space.
Property Preferences and Future Plans
When looking for their new home, Orima and her husband prioritized a reasonably-sized garden, off-street parking, and a downstairs toilet. In the future, they plan to add a utility room and a garage, which they lost during their move. They currently feel the space is adequate, but they are considering a small extension at the back for an office and gym space.
Ongoing Renovations and Sustainability
DIY renovations continue to be a part of their home improvement journey. Recently, they installed solar panels, which have significantly reduced their bills and enhanced sustainability. They also plan to enhance the front and rear gardens for more enjoyable outdoor spaces.
Reflections on Homeownership
Orima emphasizes the privilege of homeownership and the patience required in the process. While their purchase was relatively straightforward, it took longer than expected to complete. Looking ahead, they plan to stay in their current home for at least 10 years, though they may consider moving further out of Bristol in the long term for more space and privacy.
Final Thoughts
Orima’s story highlights the importance of research, planning, and personal style in the homebuying journey. Her experience serves as an inspiration to others embarking on similar paths.
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