Helping hand for Edinburgh's first-time buyers

Getting onto the property ladder can be a daunting prospect but help is at hand for Edinburgh home hunters, looking for a stylish new home close to the city. Redrow's popular Optima development, off Ferry Road, has a range of two-bedroom apartments, ideal for those starting out.

To make life easier for prospective buyers, Redrow is offering a fantastic package of incentives on selected plots, for those who are able to move in for June - and there's even an opportunity to win all the furniture to fill it!

Homehunters can move into their new home for just £99 and let Redrow take care of the 5% deposit, stamp duty and legal fees.

Diana Newton, sales director for Redrow Homes (Scotland) says: "According to the Abbey two-thirds of would-be first time buyers have put their plans on hold this year because of financial uncertainty, but that doesn't have to be the case. Redrow can help to ease the burden at what can be a very expensive time, with this fantastic package.

"Imagine not having to worry about where you will find the extra cash for your deposit, stamp duty or legal fees and just being able to walk into your new home and dump your bags.

"Supporting first time buyers in this way is an integral part of ‘re:assure from Redrow', our range of help, advice and special incentives that's designed to make moving as easy as possible from the moment of first enquiry right through until after the customer has moved in.

"The modern and stylish apartments at Optima are ideal for people taking their first step onto the property ladder and would suit young professionals and couples alike, and, with two bedrooms, they are perfect for friends to share."

And if that is not enough to whet the appetite prospective buyers are being given the chance to win the contents of the stylish Optima show apartment in a free prize draw.

In order to qualify, prospective buyers need to visit Optima or Redrow's developments at Middlebank Rise, Dunfermline, or The Potteries at Prestonpans - where first time buyer packages are also on offer - and fill an entry form before Sunday 20 April. All of the furniture would have to be removed from the show home by 25 April 2008.

The contemporary black and white furniture, which includes a leather sofa, two double beds with luxurious bedding and vases, accessories and mirrors will bring a stylish touch to any home.

With its easy access to Edinburgh city centre Optima is also the perfect development for investors looking for buy-to-let properties, who will also be able to benefit from these fantastic incentives.

Diana added: "The new build properties we have available at Optima are competitively priced, low maintenance and energy efficient so they will appeal equally to first time buyers and investors, neither of whom want to fork out for costly refurbishment or the expensive repairs that are often common place with older properties. The fantastic location and the fact the properties are brand new and have a good quality, modern specification should all help buy-to-let landlords attract a ready supply of tenants."
A choice of stylish and spacious two-bedroom apartments is currently on offer at Optima, priced from £158,000.

The properties feature an open plan living/dining area and a fitted kitchen, complete with a stainless steel oven, hob and cooker hood, while selected bedrooms have fitted wardrobes.

The apartment buildings feature video entry security systems and there is access to landscaped gardens, plus a parking space for each apartment.

The development is within close reach of Edinburgh's vibrant city centre, which is easily accessible by either car or public transport.

For more information on how you can get onto the property ladder in Edinburgh or add to your property portfolio log onto Redrow.co.uk.