With their sights set on a traditional, lived-in house, a new build seemed out of the question for Alan and Jan. But after visiting Kier Living's Elms Croft development in Long Melford, their heads were immediately turned.

Alan, 72, said: “We originally lived in Saffron Walden for 13 years, before moving to Australia for a little while, then eventually moving back to UK.”

The couple, now retired, then spent 13 years on the south coast of England, before deciding to move back closer to their home county of Essex last year.

Alan continued: “We've always lived in older houses, so our original plan was to follow suit this time around.”

Jan, 71, added: “We had already viewed four other houses in the general area, but we were impressed by what we'd initially heard about the development from a local agent. With this optimism in mind we decided to go and see it for ourselves and we're glad we did!”

They arranged a visit in late September last year, during which the retired couple's eyes were drawn to one of the 4-bedroom detached houses that Kier Living calls the Dante. They recognised many of the elements that make new builds so sought-after, including the benefits of low maintenance as well as the modern interior features.

Alan said: “We were very impressed by what we found inside, in particular the sense of space on offer throughout. We also didn't expect to find such an excellent specification, with the fabulous garden space also an added bonus.”

Jan added: “It definitely stood out amongst the others we'd seen, so after a few days of careful thinking we decided to pursue it.”

After declaring interest and selling their house on the south coast, they completed and quickly moved into their new home just three months later.

Since then, the couple have been enjoying life at Elms Croft, making the most of the free time that's come with their retirement. Jan said: “We enjoy living so close to Long Melford's main centre, with its range of amenities and lovely tea rooms and pubs. Sudbury is also within easy reach, as are Bury St. Edmunds and Cambridge, where we enjoy eating out. We're also not far from some of our closest friends, who we love spending time with.”

The couple offered glowing reviews of the service they were provided, singling out the sales team in particular.

Alan commented: “Jade and Katrina were excellent throughout and helped make the entire process so smooth, from our initial visit right up to completion,” Alan said.

Elms Croft is an impressive collection of 3 and 4-bedroom homes in the charming Suffolk village of Long Melford, suited to first-time buyers, couples and families alike. Prices start at £325,000 for a 3-bedroom home and £400,000 for a 4-bedroom home.