Four down, four to go at Somerton Court, Erdington

Half of the properties designated under Barratt West Midlands' low cost housing scheme have now sold at its Somerton Court development in Erdington. That leaves just four one-bedroom apartments left, all under £90,000 and priced at 80 per cent of their market value. They are tailor-made for first-time buyers and couples looking to get onto the first rung of the property ladder.

To prove their success, house hunters have already earmarked the homes as their choice for a reasonably priced property because they have been able to move in straight away without the hassle of DIY and alterations.

Barratt first launched the new low-cost housing scheme in the wake of Birmingham City Council's planning requirements, to assist local homebuyers in purchasing a property. It offered local residents the opportunity to buy one of eight new apartments at Somerton Court with a discount of 20 per cent off the market value.

Under the scheme, there are two one-bedroom Middleston apartments left for £89,220, but just one each of the one-bedroom Drayton at £88,600 and the Marston at £84,660. Each benefits from a spacious lounge and dining room, a fitted kitchen, bathroom, large double bedroom and a secure parking space.

Graydon Worthing, Sales Director for Barratt West Midlands, said, "There is a real shortage of affordable homes in the UK today so it is very important for us to be able to offer these apartments at such a significant discount. It means that those who may otherwise struggle to get a foot onto the property ladder will be able to make the dream of home ownership a reality, whilst still owning 100 per cent of the property.

"These apartments are perfect for a first home - buyers have the chance to move straight in without having to worry about maintenance or DIY, meaning they are able to concentrate on enjoying their beautiful new home.

"This is not a shared ownership scheme, homebuyers own 100 per cent of the property and there is no rent to pay on the remaining 50 per cent, nor does it have to be paid back at a later date. However the property must remain at the same percentage discount off the market value for all future re-sales to ensure that there is a good supply of low cost homes for years to come."

Somerton Court is situated on Short Heath Road, Erdington and aside from its low cost housing scheme, offers one- and two-bedroom apartments at prices starting from £123,750. For further information, log on to Barratthomes.co.uk/somertoncourt.