Everyone has heard about the plight of the first time buyer ; with low earnings, high property prices and hefty deposits widely recognised as the main barriers for young buyers. But simply recognising the problem is not enough, especially in today’s volatile market, which is why Countryside Properties has introduced FIRST to offer a practical way to help buyers in Heywood raise a deposit and make that ever important step onto the property ladder.
Gimmicky incentives such as the promise of a holiday in the sun or a flash new car might at first appeal, but they are no longer enough for first time buyers. As lenders continue to demand bigger deposits and the dream of home ownership slips even further out of the reach of the first time buyer, FIRST could not have come at a better time. Designed to get to the root of the problem, the scheme gives buyers the chance to spread the cost of the deposit for a brand new home at Countryside Properties’ new Merchants Gate development in Heywood.
FIRST offers would-be buyers the opportunity to reserve one of Countryside Properties’ stylish homes at Merchants Gate off plan for a reduced fee of £500. It will then cost a further £500 to exchange, but the buyer will then use the time it takes for their new home to be built to save up a 5% deposit through a series of fixed monthly payments. These are then matched pound for pound by Countryside Properties upon completion, thus giving the buyer the 10% deposit required.
Aware that first time buyers also struggle to find the money for a number of other up front costs, Countryside Properties is also offering to pay stamp duty, legal fees up to £1000 and ground rent / service charge for 6 months up to £1000.
Martin Leggett regional sales director of Countryside Properties says: “It is often first time buyers who miss out on their chance to buy because they don’t have the funds to pay the deposit and fees required up front; FIRST not only ensures that this doesn’t happen, but through securing the price of their home at an off plan rate, the buyer also has the potential to earn money from the value of the property before they have even moved in. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions that people can make and whilst exciting, it can be fraught with stress and worry. We are keen to ensure that the process is made as easy and enjoyable as possible for everyone involved, which is why we have introduced FIRST.”
Subject to planning, Merchants Gate will comprise a beautiful collection of 3 bedroom homes perfectly suited to first time buyers and young families looking to be close to a bustling town, with fantastic access to the best of city living and the North West.
Merchants Gate offers excellent transport links for commuters; positioned 7 miles north of Manchester, 3 miles south west of Rochdale and 3 miles east of Bury.
It is anticipated the homes at Merchants Gate will be released for sale in late 2008. To be included on the priority list, please register your interest at www.merchants-gate.com or call 08000 856 857. For more information on FIRST, please visit www.countryside-firstsaver.com