Despite being one of the most expensive cities to buy in, couple Vladyslav (35) and Kateryna (30) only had eyes for London. Having swapped renting in Canada Water to buying their first home in the UK together - a two-bedroom apartment at Dock28 - the couple is saving £600 per month.

“We love the buzz of London life so much, so we just weren’t ready to give that lifestyle up, even if it would’ve meant saving money or getting more space if we had moved further out. While we’re still young we want to continue to enjoy the London lifestyle” said Vladyslav.

Vladyslav, an IT Program Manager, and Marketing Lead, Kateryna, were previously renting in Canada Water together. In August this year (2024) they bought a two-bed apartment for £430,000 at Dock28 in Greenwich, and have not only been able to continue living the London lifestyle, they have also significantly reduced their monthly outgoings.

Vladyslav said: “For the first two years that we were renting in Canada Water, we were paying £2,000 a month, plus bills. In the last year, that went up to £2,400 and this is when we knew we had to get out of the rental market – it’s so unpredictable.

“We now pay £1,800 a month towards our two-year fixed, 35-year mortgage. Having £600 more a month makes a big difference - it means we can do more of the things we love, like going to the theatre and eating out.”

With both Vladyslav and his partner working in the city and enjoying hybrid working, staying close to the office was important to them. Since moving to Woolwich Vladyslav’s commute has gotten even smoother.

Vladyslav said: “For many of my senior colleagues, they’re only in the office once or twice a month so they don’t mind living up to two hours away from the office. I need to and want to be in the office more often, which is why it was so important we stayed in London.

“I work in Liverpool Street and when I was living in Canada Water my commute was okay, but now I’m in Woolwich it takes me almost half the time – with the Elizabeth line I can be there in just 35 minutes, door to door."

As with many working professionals in London, five days in the office is a thing of the past, so having a comfortable work from home space is essential. It was for this reason that Vladyslav and his partner opted for a two-bedroom property.

“Finally, after years of dreaming I have the work from home space that I’ve needed – I’m so happy to have the space for an adjustable desk! Kateryna and I alternate the days we work from home so we can both have somewhere comfortable to work when we’re not in the office. We’ve also put a nice sofa bed in there, so when we have family or friends to stay they can sleep in there.”

“It’s also great working from home here as we’re right by the River Thames, so at lunch we can go for a walk or a run along the river which is a nice break from staring at a screen for hours.” said Vladyslav.

The couple considered a variety of different areas in London before deciding on Woolwich for a number of reasons.

Vladyslav said: “I see a lot of potential for growth in Woolwich, as it’s currently experiencing a lot of development and regeneration. I have some friends who have been living in Canada Water for many years, and they said that Woolwich reminds them of how Canada Water was 10 years ago, and the house prices have grown there a lot.

Dock28 offers tranquil riverside living with easy access to the Thames Path. Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the areasrich maritime history can be felt still to this day through its cultural buzz, harnessed by multiple museums, statues and its waterside location.

The heart of Woolwich also has much to offer locals and visitors; the tree-lined high street has a plethora of independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.

“Hopefully in 10 years’ time our property will have grown in value. But even now it’s already a nice area with great transport links thanks to the Elizabeth Line” Vladyslav continued.

Vladyslav and Kateryna’s apartment is modern in design, with Quartz worktops and integrated appliances in the kitchen, sun-bleached oak Amtico flooring throughout and generously sized windows inviting sunlight into the space, all which help to create a sleek and high-quality feel.

“We were keen to a buy a new build as many second-hand homes need work done to them which can be very costly. We’re very happy with the finish and how much we’ve been able to put our own stamp on it.”

Vladyslav’s advice for anyone looking to buy a property in London is simple: “Plan in advance! There’s a lot of choice in this city and plenty to think about so be clear on what’s most important to you, what your budget is and when you want to make the move.”

Find out more about Dock28, Woolwich: