First time buyer gets place of his own with Government help

Matthew Sawyer has taken his first step onto the property ladder, thanks to a special initiative by Government agency English Partnerships and Barratt Homes. He was able to buy a 2-bedroom house at Hardwick Green in Stockton using the First-time Buyer Initiative (FTBI). This scheme helps aspiring first-time buyers, who cannot otherwise afford to buy a home outright, to purchase a home for as little as 50 per cent of the price with English Partnerships providing the remainder.

It means buyers don't need large amounts of capital and can afford the mortgage repayments.

Matthew, 26, who had been living with his parents, said: "It wouldn't have been possible for me to own a home like this without the FTBI and it is something I'm very thankful for.

"I found the whole process very easy too as Barratt handled everything on my behalf. It was pretty much stress-free, which was something I wasn't expecting from buying my first home.

"The house is fantastic too and I'm just delighted to be in here and on the property ladder."

Hardwick Green is one of a number of Barratt developments to be awarded the FTBI funding, which is part of the Government's ‘HomeBuy' low cost ownership scheme.

Barratt Newcastle Sales Manager Steve Mariner said: "This is an excellent way of helping people into home ownership and we are delighted to be able to offer it. I would advise people to talk to us to find out if they are eligible."

Hardwick Green is a major regeneration scheme which will provide 700 new homes, a new primary school, environmental and leisure improvements plus jobs for the local community.

For more details, the sales centre on Whessoe Road, Stockton is open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm.