Iqbal Ahmed and his wife, Asia, secured a three-bedroom flat in New Barnet for £535,000 after their 13-year-old son, Adam, learned about the development from a school friend. The family, previously living in a one-bedroom flat in East Finchley, moved into their new home in April this year.
A tip from school leads to a new home
Adam, who turned 13 in March, heard about new flats in New Barnet from a friend at school. He told his parents, and the family went to view the property. Iqbal, who was at work during the initial visit, joined after his wife and son called him. He was impressed by the south-facing flat's view, describing it as showing a different sunset every evening.
Iqbal, who has worked in the hotel industry for 25 years and is also a writer with his sixth book published earlier this year, said the family needed more space. The previous one-bedroom flat had become cramped, especially during COVID when his son attended online classes.
Buying and furnishing on a budget
The couple paid a 5% deposit of £26,650, an allowance made by developer Fairview that Iqbal said helped. Their mortgage is £1,800 per month at a fixed rate of 4.99% for five years. Monthly costs include electricity at around £120, phones and internet at about £80, and water at around £45, with service charges and council tax still to be confirmed.
To furnish the flat, Iqbal has shopped at a local North London Hospice shop, spending about £1,400 on second-hand furniture. He noted that buying new would cost as much for a single item.
Enjoying the new space and location
The family appreciates the area's green spaces, with Iqbal and Adam cycling to nearby Hadley Wood and Trent Park. The flat, on the fourth floor, offers more light than their previous ground-floor home. Iqbal has an office room and a balcony, which he enjoys. He said the family does not plan to move again, as there is now enough space for everyone.
