Will Smith and girlfriend Caroline Thomas weren’t planning on purchasing a property together, but when they came across an Instagram image for The Levers, curiosity got the better of them.

"We knew that we could buy but weren’t immediately convinced and chose not to actively pursue it, but then I came across an advert on Instagram for The Levers,” says Will. “It was a real leap of faith to go have a look and we immediately fell in love with the flat we viewed."

"It was ideal for us and a great way to take the next step in our relationship." he adds.

The Levers is one of the latest offerings from Hastings International featuring a collection of one, two- and three-bedroom homes within Elephant and Castle as part of the master-planned redevelopment set out by Southwark Council. Each property offers contemporary kitchen and bathroom features alongside a spacious private balcony with vistas across the courtyard and north of the City.

The regeneration is hoping to position Elephant and Castle as a major urban hub in South London, making it perfect for young professional couples like Will and Caroline. 

"We wanted something modern where we could have a fresh start and have our own style to make it our own," said Will.

Besides the area's new property developments, there are abundant cultural and entertainment options which appealed to them.

"When we were looking around, we knew we wanted to stay in the area. A different thing is appearing all the time and we’re so close to areas such as Kennington with great pubs and even the Imperial War Museum. We love Mercato Metropolitano which we’re excited to explore further."

Hotspots like outdoor-covered food and drink pop-up Mercato Metropolitano has become a firm favourite for locals due to its wide array of options, spanning from traditional Italian to Turkish and Mexican alongside a German brewery and backyard cinema. The Southwark Playhouse has been inspiring the latest generation of theatre makers through their plays and the transformed Burgess Park is keeping locals fit with its free weekly Saturday morning 5k run alongside its sports pitches and fishing lake for local anglers.

The Levers can be purchased through the Help to Buy scheme.

"We were already living in the Elephant and Castle area but were worried about getting priced out due to being so close to the city,” says Will. “Continuing with paying rent just felt as if we were throwing money away each month."

Statistics from gov.co.uk claim that the average rent for a 1 bedroom flat in Elephant and Castle can be as high as £2,058, making it one of the more expensive areas in the south of London to rent. However, according the Santander, the average Londoner could save up to £289 a month by purchasing over renting.

"Using Help To Buy meant that we could afford a property perfect for us that was modern and close to the city," Will adds.

The Levers has a selection of two- and three-bedroom apartments available for purchase through Private Sale, starting at £595,000. Help to Buy is available on certain properties.

For more information on The Levers, visit http://www.hastingsinternational.com/property-for-sale/flat-for-sale-in-the-levers-2-16-amelia-street-london/2643 or call the sales team at Hastings International on 020 7378 9000.