The Co-op offers first time buyers stamp duty support

With the stamp duty holiday for first time buyers due to come to an end this Saturday (24 March), The Co-operative Bank is launching a new range of fee-free products offering relief to first time homeowners who may have missed the deadline.

As part of the bank's commitment to lend up to £360 million to first time buyers in 2012, the new products are available from March 23rd exclusively to those buying their first home with just a 10% deposit.

The product range includes both fixed rate and lifetime tracker options with rates starting at 4.59%. The mortgages also have no arrangement fees and include a free standard valuation saving first time buyers £1,249.

James Hillon, Head of Mortgages at The Co-operative Bank said: "We're committed to increasing our lending to first time buyers this year and are backing up that promise with a new product range to help those who may have just missed out on the stamp duty holiday.

"Buying your first home is a milestone but the reality of finding the money for stamp duty on top of a deposit will delay many first time buyers from making this step. We want to encourage home ownership wherever possible by introducing affordable options for those looking to buy."