A Birmingham takeaway delivery driver burdened by debt has experienced a life-changing turnaround after winning a stunning £1.3 million dream house in a prize draw, only to choose the £1 million cash alternative instead.
From financial struggle to millionaire status
Khaja Syed, a father-of-two who had been grappling with severe money problems for over a year, received the astonishing news when presenters from online competition company BOTB knocked on his rented home door on 11th November 2025.
The delivery driver, who typically enters BOTB's weekly dream car competitions, was completely unprepared for the revelation that he had won the company's largest-ever prize - a brand new four-bedroom house valued at £1.3 million.
An emotional reaction to life-changing news
When BOTB presenter Christian Williams delivered the news alongside a glitter cannon celebration, an overwhelmed Khaja embraced him and repeatedly expressed his gratitude, saying: "You've just made my day, man. You've just made my day."
The prize property, located in the exclusive development of Saffron Walden, boasts rural charm while maintaining excellent connections to main commuting routes. Despite its appeal, Khaja and his family faced a crucial decision during their same-day visit to the house.
The cash alternative choice
Like all BOTB winners, Khaja was presented with the option to either keep the spectacular house or accept a tax-free cash alternative of £1 million. After careful consideration with his wife, he opted for the financial windfall.
"I think, honestly, after speaking to you guys, it's quite far from our place, and I think we should go for the cash," Khaja explained to Christian Williams, fighting back tears of joy and relief.
The emotional father highlighted his motivation, stating: "It'll be a life-changing moment for me, I can do it for my kids, give them what they want, I can do it for them. This was, honestly, a life-changing moment for me."
Future plans for the windfall
Rather than relocating to the dream home, Khaja plans to use the substantial tax-free cash injection to launch his own business and establish lasting financial security for his young family. His determination to work hard and build a better future demonstrates his commitment to making the most of this extraordinary opportunity.
BOTB continues to offer remarkable prizes through its competitions, including a £695,000 luxury house in Devon with tickets costing just 95p, and a £59,000 Mercedes AMG GT S supercar available for only 7p per entry.
