Young couple buy smart with Dream Start

First-time buyers are being given a boost onto the housing ladder at Barratt's Staunton Place development in Havant, thanks to the developer's new Dream Start initiative. The scheme allows first-time buyers to secure a mortgage for 75 per cent of the total property price, with Barratt financing the remaining 25 per cent for up to 10 years. The developer will also pay the five per cent deposit and legal fees - a real bonus for those struggling to pay rent and save towards a new home.

Paul Slee (27) and Kelly Phillips (22) are one of many couples taking advantage of the initiative.

"Thanks to the schemes available, we have bought a two-bedroom, first floor apartment at Staunton Place," said Paul, a warehouse administrator. "We would never have been able to afford a place of our own without the deals, so I think it's fantastic.

"Kelly and I live with my parents and it will be nice to finally move into a home of our own, although it is a bit daunting. However, it's a nice development and we'll only be a five-minute drive away from both sets of parents."

Mark Docherty, Barratt sales director, added: "First time buyers are still facing many obstacles in becoming home owners and Barratt's Dream Start scheme is tailored to help them get on the property ladder. Paul and Kelly are a perfect example of the people we are trying to help."

Staunton Place offers a selection of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes and prices range from £110,246 with the Dream Start scheme. The development enjoys an attractive setting in communal gardens with specially commissioned sculptures.

Havant is a thriving market town with excellent road and rail links. Located close to Portsmouth, Chichester and the Isle of Wight, it borders Hampshire and West Sussex, and is within easy reach of numerous attractions and places of interest.

For further details on current availability, log on to Barratthomes.co.uk.