The ‘place’ to be for low cost homes

Barratt West Midlands' Westminster Place development in West Heath has proved to be a hotspot for buyers looking for a low cost property, with just five now remaining from the original 22 available on-site.

Just 23 per cent of the original total at the Birmingham development remain - these are two-bedroom Brindley apartments, which are all priced at under £90,000. 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 them the opportunity to buy a new two-bedroom apartment at Westminster Place, at a discount of 50 per cent off the market value.

Ground floor apartments under the scheme are priced at £85,750, whilst first floor properties are £89,565. The Brindley benefits from a spacious open plan living and dining room, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en suite shower room and a convenient separate bathroom, ideal for cutting the queues when guests come to visit.

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."

Westminster Place is situated on Alvechurch Road in the West Heath area of Birmingham and aside from its affordable properties, offers two-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom houses, with prices starting from £154,750. For further information, log on to Barratthomes.co.uk/westminsterplace.