After spending a long time searching for her ideal home, Senior HR Coordinator, Ellie (28) has become a first-time homeowner after discovering The George, a loving restored collection of new homes in New Milton, Hampshire. Brought to the community from family-owned housebuilder Pennyfarthing Homes, the development is positioned in an idyllic setting and within a relaxing atmosphere, offering the perfect place for Ellie and her dog, a Maltipoo called Kobe, to live independently, yet stay connected to her family, the beach, and the city.
Growing up nearby in Bashley, Hampshire, Ellie later moved with her mum around Dorset, always staying close to the coast they loved. After deciding it was time to buy a place of her own, she found her perfect home just a short drive away from her in New Milton. Now, just a month into owning her first home, she couldn’t be happier; settling down in the area where she grew up feels like a true full-circle moment and a great achievement.
Ellie commented: “After living near the coast my whole life, I knew I’d want to stay close by, and with the apartment at The George situated just five minutes from Barton on Sea beach it was perfect. There are also a great mix of local shops, takeaways, and green spaces all around, so it felt right for me from the start.”
Ellie purchased a converted apartment at The George, an exclusive collection of just eight apartments and two semi-detached homes, all comprising between one and two bedrooms. Located in the heart of New Milton, The George is set within a newly refurbished building that was once a homely pub, The George Inn, dating back to 1905.
At The George, Ellie purchased a one-bedroom apartment with an inviting open-plan living area that seamlessly connected to a modern kitchen. She explains: “I loved my new apartment as soon as I first saw it – it’s so light and airy and has such a clean, sleek feel. The sympathetic renovation gave the building a modern interior style, but the original features, such as the beautifully restored arched windows were kept, and they add so much character to my home. But honestly, my favourite part is just being able to call it mine.”
Situated between the natural beauty of Barton-on-Sea’s coastline and the border of the enchanting New Forest, the inviting town of New Milton is a truly desirable place to live. With direct rail links to London Waterloo, it strikes the perfect balance between coastal charm, countryside tranquility, and city connectivity.
For Ellie, it was also important to have an easy commute to work, but to remain connected to her family and friends.
Ellie commented: “My new home is perfect for my job too, being just a 20-minute drive to Ringwood, where my office is based. The daily commute is so smooth and easy! Another thing that was important for me when finding my home was being close to my family, and now I’m right in the centre of everyone – it’s brilliant.”
In addition, being a first-time buyer, Ellie really appreciated the support she received from the Pennyfarthing Homes team.
She shares: “Once I’d found the apartment, the process was all very easy. Pennyfarthing Homes supported me throughout, giving me all the information I needed from the start. They were also extremely attentive once I had moved in too, checking in frequently to see how I was finding everything.”
Though it was a priority for Ellie to stay connected for practical reasons, New Milton also allows her to continue to pursue her hobbies and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Ellie continues: “There are so many activities to enjoy on the doorstep here. When I’m not working, you’ll often find me at the beach, either swimming or walking my dog along the shore. Fitness is also a big part of my life, so I love teaching yoga, and I regularly take part in bootcamps – it’s a fantastic way to stay active, support my mental and physical wellbeing, and connect with the local community.”
Ellie has only been living in her new home for a month now but is thrilled with how things are going. She expressed how excited she is for the future and the lifestyle that a place at The George provides.
She concludes: “I’m so happy to have a place to call my own, living alone for the first time means I can finally host for my family and friends and decorate my home however I want – I’ve already started a pink theme, and I love it! I just can’t wait to enjoy this new balanced lifestyle that’s productive yet relaxed, it’s something I’ve always wanted.”
