Buy new and enjoy lower fuel bills

If you're wondering about when you should make that all important first step onto the property ladder and are concerned about a budgeting for the mortgage and bills, then worry no more as Persimmon Homes East Midlands' Meridian development in Hampton Hargate has the answer.

By purchasing an affordable brand new one or two bedroom apartment at Meridian, purchasers can greatly reduce their outgoing payments as with a newly built property, there are no home improvement costs, no need to redecorate, rewire, or replace the kitchen or bathroom.

Nor is there a need to re-insulate, install a new boiler or central heating or replace window. Indeed, not having to upgrade an older property could save you thousands of pounds which could be spent on other luxuries, such as a furnishing your new home - and you can still have money left over.

Steve Matthews, sales director for Persimmon Homes East Midlands, comments: "Buying a new home has so many benefits, including the range of choice on offer. Our purchasers can personalise the interior fixtures and fittings too from our Finishing Touches range, meaning that they can move in and not have the hassle of modernising or redecorating."

Steve adds: "What's more, a new home is constructed with modern building products which provide good sound and heat insulation, thereby leading to lower fuel costs. In fact, according to new research from the New Homes Marketing Board, living in a new home could save you up to £556 a year on average energy bills compared to older homes."

These savings are made possible because new homes generate more than 60 per cent less CO2 emissions, which is the equivalent of taking one car off British roads or driving 10,000 miles less a year per household.*

Prices start from as little as £117,500 for a one bedroom apartment at Persimmon Homes' popular Meridian development.

Persimmon is also offering its acclaimed Shared Equity scheme at Meridian. Basically, the company buys a percentage of your house with you. For those with lower savings and for the growing number of people wanting to buy on their own, shared ownership is a perfect option as it means you can buy a home without the cost of a huge mortgage.

Steve concludes: "First time buyers looking to make a cost effect first purchase will be at ease at Meridian due to the affordable yet enviable apartments coupled with the benefits of buying new."

Meridian is a prestigious scheme located, which comprises a selection of 75 homes including the apartments and two, three, four and four/five bedroom homes. Hampton Hargate has an excellent range of amenities, sports centre and a local school. It's an ideal location for commuters with the A1 leading to Huntingdon, Cambridge and the North and the A605 to Northampton and A47 towards Wisbech and Leicester, close by.

So, if your criteria for a new home is value for money, lower bills and the perfect location, then a visit to Meridian is a must. The marketing suite is open daily from 10.30am to 5.30pm. Alternatively visit the company online at Persimmonhomes.com.

* According to New Homes Marketing Board