A fairytale ending for first time buyers in Manchester

Everyone has heard about the plight of the first time buyer; with low earnings, high property prices and hefty deposits widely recognised as the main barriers for young buyers.

But simply recognising the problem is not enough, especially in today's volatile market, which is why Countryside Properties has introduced FIRST to offer a practical way to help buyers in Manchester raise a deposit and make that ever important step onto the property ladder.

Gimmicky incentives such as the promise of a holiday in the sun or a flash new car might at first appeal, but they are no longer enough for first time buyers. As lenders continue to demand bigger deposits and the dream of home ownership slips even further out of the reach of the first time buyer, FIRST could not have come at a better time. Designed to get to the root of the problem, the scheme gives buyers the chance to spread the cost of the deposit for a brand new home at Countryside Properties' new Merchants Gate and Copper Wells developments in Heywood, Spinning Vale in Gorton and New Broughton in Salford.

FIRST offers would-be buyers the opportunity to reserve one of Countryside Properties' stylish homes at Merchants Gate, Copper Wells, Spinning Vale or New Broughton off plan for a reduced fee of £500. It will then cost a further £500 to exchange, but the buyer will then use the time it takes for their new home to be built to save up a 5% deposit through a series of fixed monthly payments. These are then matched pound for pound by Countryside Properties upon completion, thus giving the buyer the 10% deposit required.

Aware that first time buyers also struggle to find the money for a number of other up front costs, Countryside Properties is also offering to pay stamp duty, legal fees up to £1000 and ground rent / service charge for 6 months up to £1000.

Martin Leggett regional sales director of Countryside Properties says: "It is often first time buyers who miss out on their chance to buy because they don't have the funds to pay the deposit and fees required up front; FIRST not only ensures that this doesn't happen, but through securing the price of their home at an off plan rate, the buyer also has the potential to earn money from the value of the property before they have even moved in. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions that people can make and whilst exciting, it can be fraught with stress and worry. We are keen to ensure that the process is made as easy and enjoyable as possible for everyone involved, which is why we have introduced FIRST."

Situated on the eastern side of Salford in Lower Broughton and just one mile from Manchester city centre, New Broughton is the largest and most ambitious scheme of its kind in the North West.

Planning permission has now been granted for an exiting new phase at New Broughton and will see a further 808 properties built over the next three years. A number of three and four bedroom homes are already available with prices starting from £164,950. Interested parties are advised to act quickly to avoid disappointment. More information can be found by logging on to Newbroughtonliving.com.

Subject to planning, Merchants Gate will comprise a beautiful collection of 3 bedroom homes and Copper Wells a range of 3 and 4 bedroom homes. Both developments are perfectly suited to first time buyers and young families looking to be close to a bustling town with fantastic access to the best of city living and the North West.

Also subject to planning, Spinning Vale will comprise of 3 bedroom new homes, perfect for first time buyers and young families. This exciting development is conveniently positioned within 2 miles of central Manchester, whilst the nearby A57 Mancunian Way, M602 and M60 motorways provide easy access across the North West.

It is anticipated the homes at Merchants Gate and Spinning Vale will be released for sale in late 2008 and Copper Wells will follow in early 2009. To be included on the priority list, please register your interest at Merchants-gate.com / Copperwells.com or Spinningvale.com.

For more information on FIRST, log on to Countryside-firstsaver.com.