Software engineer Nitish Kumar bought a two-bedroom flat in Poplar, East London, for £620,000 in July 2024. He paid a 25% deposit of £155,000, with about 70% of it coming from a family gift.
Property and area
Nitish lives at Iris House at Berkeley’s Poplar Riverside. He describes the area as quieter and more peaceful than where he lived before, with local walks, cycling routes, and green spaces. It is in Zone 2, with Canning Town and East India stations within walking distance.
The neighbourhood will include a new public square with cafés, bars, and restaurants, plus a basketball court. A bridge connecting the area to Canning Town is under construction. The upcoming Riverside Club will feature a 20-metre swimming pool, jacuzzi, spa, lounge, co-working spaces, games room, cinema room, and salt room.
Purchase and costs
Nitish’s mortgage is £2,800 per month, and bills add £400-£500 monthly. He saved for years, using a Cash ISA and Stocks and Shares ISA. He liquidated the Cash ISA to increase his deposit, while the family contribution let him keep investments intact and buy furniture.
He previously rented in Wembley for £1,765 a month, with a first-year discount of £1,500. When the rent rose, he decided to buy. He chose Poplar because he was familiar with the area from living in Canning Town and saw it as a good investment.
Living space and plans
The living room is his favourite, set up for gaming with access to two balconies. He says there is plenty of space and storage, and the open-plan kitchen and living area feel larger. He has no plans to change the property.
Nitish recommends buying a new build, particularly with Berkeley, citing build quality and on-site amenities. He plans to stay for five to seven years, then may move when he is ready to start a family.
