Friends in sync: ‘We both moved to the UK and now we’re living on the same street’
How two former colleagues ended up working together and living in the same development after migrating from Nigeria
Goodness and Oluwatobi (Tobi) have been close friends since first meeting through work in 2019 in Nigeria. Nearly three years ago, the two friends decided separately to relocate their families to Manchester and ended up working together again when they moved to the UK.
Both married with one young child each, the friends individually decided they would like to buy their first home. With Manchester recently being named the top hotspot for first-time buyers, they started their search.
Goodness said: “I was previously renting a small flat in Salford which wasn’t suitable for my young family; we needed more space and were ready to buy. We always knew we wanted a new build home so the search was on. We decided on Millbank Lock, the Countryside Homes development in Partington where my friend Tobi and her family were already renting.”
Once she chose her home – and knowing her friend was looking to get onto the property ladder – Goodness encouraged Tobi to buy too. Tobi and her partner had been saving for a while and were looking for a similar style of home.
Tobi commented: “We always wanted to become homeowners and had enjoyed living in a new-build so it was non-negotiable that we bought one – rather than a second hand property. I also really enjoy the friendly community at Millbank Lock and the connections we’ve made here, so it was a no-brainer to settle here. I get to be close to Goodness and her family and enjoy owning a lovely newly-built home.”
Now the best friends are working together and living side by side in Manchester.
Goodness continued: “We’re developing a community that’s right for us to raise our families within. We wanted an area that had good schools and a family-friendly feel, and we have found this here in Partington. Having Tobi nearby has only strengthened our relationship and I hope that some of our other friends will move to the area in time.”
Joe Turner, Managing Director, Vistry Manchester and Cheshire East, commented: “This growing family community at Millbank Lock is exactly what we imagine when designing our developments. Finding a home when you are a new family, in a new area, can be a daunting decision. This is where the power of community becomes clear. It’s great to see Goodness and Tobi recommending friends and helping build connections throughout Millbank Lock. The support they receive from each other is invaluable and I look forward to hearing more about the journey in their Countryside homes.”
Millbank Lock offers a range of three and four-bedroom homes, with prices starting from £299,995 for a two-bedroom home and plots currently available to move into in time for Christmas. Buyers who reserve their new home by December 2024, will also receive up to £10,000* to help with their move, whether it be a boost to their deposit, help with stamp duty fees, or a kitchen upgrade.
