Alistair and Helen

Caerlee Mill, Innerleithen – 2021

After some consideration, the decision was made to downsize their home to a lower maintenance property, as although the architecture and appearance of the previous property was appealing, the high ceilings meant for cold winters, high energy consumption, and the prospects of renovations in the coming years to the roof, windows, decorating etc was not a task which they looked forward to.

The decision was made to move to a new build property, to alleviate the maintenance issues, and to a warmer, more cost efficient property, yet retaining some of the space which they were used to. The couple hoped for an architecturally interesting property. Helen commented that “I clicked on the website and there were only two houses left on the development when we looked – I think we were lucky it was a pure fluke – I think it was meant to be”.

Alistair and Helen said the appeal of Caerlee Mill and the house types that were available were that “There’s something about the design. It’s sort of industrial, which was part of its appeal, on the site of an old mill.” They also liked that the houses were built differently to the other new build properties that they’d seen previously, such as the different bricks and facades of the properties, and the directions and layout of the development.

At the end of November 2021, Alistair, Helen and their border collie dog Marley, made the big move into their new Brodie style property in Caerlee Mill.

The move took some co-ordinating with removals companies with their belongings being in storage for longer than anticipated due to Covid-19, however they were pleased that the handover process went really smoothly, the house was nice and clean, and the heating was on, so they felt welcome and warm.

Warmth is a high point which the couple are enjoying about their new home – when they go into their kitchen in the morning they are welcomed by a blast of warm air. Both Alistair and Helen commented that their new home’s stand-out features are it would be a bit dark, but there are plenty windows and lots of light coming in.” In fact, Helen had knitted three thick warm jumpers in the first lockdown due to Covid-19, but laughed that she hasn’t had the chance to wear these in her property as it was so warm and there was no need, however they may come in handy for long dog walks in the surrounding areas.

From start to finish, the couple believe their sales, home purchase and after sales process have gone “all really smooth, right from signing the (initial) documents – all were very helpful and responsive”. Whiteburn use a CRM system which home owner can report any issues regarding their new homes, and our team work with this to resolve matters efficiently. When asked if there was anything that we could improve on, Helen said:

I can’t think if there’s anything you could have done better, we ask for things to be done, when they get done, they’re in the right way, then they’re done, I mean, what can you improve on really?!

Overall, both Alistair and Helen are both glad they made the move to their new home in Caerlee Mill. They’re around 5 minutes from the high street, with all the facilities they need, such as nice independent shops, and dog friendly places where they can take Marley. Peebles is a short drive away for any larger shopping trips, and as they’re keen walkers, there are lots of lovely walks in and around the area.

Finally, the couple really enjoy the Caerlee Mill development itself for the design and the way in which the properties are distanced and arranged and noted that “The landscaping is beautiful – really lovely, with all the trees planted…it feels like a holiday village”. They would recommend a Whiteburn home to friends and family, noting that the overall homebuying experience was “excellent”.