Roadshow helps buyers onto the property ladder in Gloucestershire

Barratt has joined forces with South West Homes to help buyers take their first steps on to the property ladder.

A ‘not for profit’ organisation appointed by the Homes and Communities Agency, South West Homes is the first point of contact for advice for those who feel unable to buy their own homes.

“Together with South West Homes, we are involved in roadshows across the region to show people it is often possible to buy a home for the first time – even when the door seems shut,” said Barratt sales director, Andrea Pilgrim.

Buyers who are eligible for the HomeBuy Direct scheme can buy a brand new home at just 70% of the purchase price as up to 30% is funded by a shared equity loan from Barratt and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and buyers only need a five per cent deposit.

And the partnership between Barratt and South West Homes is getting the message across to those who need the scheme most.

The latest roadshow, held at Cheltenham Borough Council’s offices, was hailed as a huge success – with well over a hundred potential home buyers attending.

“We were delighted by the response from locals – and those from surrounding counties,” said Graham Phillips from South West Homes. “This is a very encouraging sign that the property market has all the potential for recovery. Large numbers came to us for advice about securing a new home.

“The team from Barratt has been fantastic throughout. These roadshows really are a joint project – and they have helped us provide a ‘one stop shop’ for anyone with questions about the home buying process. From finding the perfect new home to applying for a mortgage to pay for it, there are experts on hand to answer all the burning questions.”

Many Barratt homes at developments across the south west are available for purchase under the HomeBuy Direct scheme. “We understand just how difficult it can be to make that first move,” said Barratt’s Andrea Pilgrim. “It is important for us to demonstrate our continuing commitment to buyers – and offering schemes like this helps us do that.”

There are several roadshows planned for the coming months throughout the region. For more information, visit southwesthomes.org.uk.

For information about new Barratt homes available under HomeBuy Direct, log onto barratthomes.co.uk.