For Peter and Scott Lambert, a couple in their early 40s with teenage son Ethan and their beloved dachshund Millie, a move to a larger property in the countryside had always been a dream – but one they didn’t expect to realise so soon. That all changed when they discovered our Oakwood Park development in Wimborne.

“We were looking for somewhere that felt like a step up in life – a proper family home where we could grow, relax, and just enjoy life,” said Peter. “We weren’t initially thinking of a new build, but we drove past Cala’s development in Wimborne and we knew it was something special.”

 

 

They moved into their beautiful three-bedroom semi-detached Kingston home at the end of May 2025, having initially completed the exchange in January and watched it take shape over the previous four months. “We saw every part of the build and visited the site on a regular basis,” said Scott. “It gave us a deep connection to the house seeing it built from foundations to finish. On move-in day, the Sales team even took photos to mark the moment – it felt like more than just buying a house; it was the start of a new chapter.” Immediately drawn to Oakwood Park but having not previously considered our Part Exchange Scheme, the couple quickly saw how the service could help make their dream move possible.

 

“The market conditions meant we might not have been able to buy otherwise,” said Scott. “But Part Exchange made the process simple and stress-free – we moved up the ladder into a three-bed home, and it honestly feels like a pinch-me moment.”

 

Our Part Exchange service offered Peter and Scott not just convenience, but complete peace of mind. It removes the uncertainty of selling a home by offering a guaranteed buyer where we, the housebuilder buys the property, helping avoid property chains, delays, and estate agent fees.

 

“Cala came to assess our old home, and within two days we had a fair and solid offer – we’d had three estate agent valuations previously, so knew the offer reflected the market whilst also avoiding additional stress,” Scott added. Having experienced the stress of doing up a previous property, Peter was relieved everything was taken care of. “No decorating, no chaos – it was just done.”

 

The couple had previously lived in a stylish apartment with no outdoor space, but the limitations were starting to show. “We loved the vibe, but we were craving a garden, somewhere for Millie to run, and space to entertain friends and family,” said Peter. “Now we’ve got it – the kitchen-diner is our social hub, and we’ve already hosted several gatherings.”

 

 

Scott, a Risk Director, works mostly from home, so having a designated workspace was key. Their Kingston housetype ticks every box. “The third bedroom doubles as an office, and the garage is big enough to convert the back section if we ever need more space,” he said. “It’s future-proofed our lifestyle.”

 

The energy efficiency of their new home has also made a noticeable difference. “The house stays cool in summer even when we’ve experienced the heatwaves,” said Scott. “Our bills have dropped, and we’re using the car less because everything we need is just a walk away.”

 

But for Peter and Scott, what’s surprised them most is the community that they’ve built in Wimborne so far. “The vibe here is incredibly welcoming,” said Peter. “We were only the second to move in, but now there’s a residents’ WhatsApp group and neighbours stop for chats on dog walks – it’s the kind of community we’d hoped for.”

 

Reflecting on the journey, Scott added, “Cala made us feel like more than just customers. From the thoughtful welcome gifts to the responsive after-sales care, it’s been a joy. We wake up and still say, ‘Is this really ours?’ It feels like a big hug every time we walk through the door.”

 



Cala News & Lifestyle

The design of a home doesn’t stop at the door... We are passionate about sustainable and inclusive communities. Our homes look good together, mature well over time and sit well within their surroundings.
Downsizers choose Newbury for a fresh start near family

Downsizers choose Newbury for a fresh start near family

James and daughter Lara find a welcoming community at Hampton Lakes

James and daughter Lara find a welcoming community at Hampton Lakes

Cala Appoints Tom Nicholson as Chief Executive Officer

Cala Appoints Tom Nicholson as Chief Executive Officer

The best of Hampshire Living – Life in Worting

The best of Hampshire Living – Life in Worting

Arrow up