Ewan and Claire Todd, Millerhill

After 13 years living in an – extended – period cottage in Danderhall in Midlothian, Ewan and Claire Todd took the plunge in April and moved into their new Bressay home with their son and daughter, just down the road at Millerhill in the new town of Shawfair.

“It’s everything we were looking for”, said Ewan. “There are many 4-bedroom homes on the market – and we looked at lots - but this one has by far the best layout and loads of storage space, including an integral garage. The build quality is outstanding too.

“We really like the fact that the open plan kitchen, dining and family area stretches along the rear of house as we probably spend most of our time in this space. We also appreciate that the utility room leads directly outside so we have a place to remove muddy shoes before entering the kitchen for example.”

The family love the space upstairs, and not just the four double bedrooms. “Even the upstairs landing is generously sized and bright”, explained Ewan. “It sounds like a small thing to notice but it really makes a difference.”

“We can say hand on heart that the support we have received from Mactaggart & Mickel has been exceptional” said Claire. “They never once applied any pressure to sign on the dotted line and have accommodated all our requests cheerfully and quickly.

“We really love living in Shawfair” said Ewan. “The schools are great and there’s a new town centre planned, which will really pull the community together. And in terms of transport connections, the location is ideal. The bypass is minutes away, we can be in Edinburgh in 15 minutes by train.”