COUNCIL chiefs are doing their best to help first-time buyers step onto the property ladder.
At a time when rising interest rates are making it increasingly difficult for people to buy property, the District of Easington council is looking at ways to ensure that they get a roof over their heads without breaking the bank.
Council offici
als are looking at ways of increasing the amount of good quality, affordable homes in the east Durham area and want to hear from local residents so they can assess what they really want out of their property.
The council will also be considering the provision of more social rented housing, part buy/part rent properties and discounted home ownership.
Ian Morris, the council's head of housing, said: "Although we recognise the need for more affordable housing in the district, we want to assess the actual demand among residents before we decide on the best way of providing it.
"We're also asking residents to contact us because we would like to know whether they're interested in owning a property, would consider part-owning one, or would prefer to rent."
The move follows the authority's introduction of an affordable housing policy, which states that at least 20 per cent of all new housing developments of 15 properties or more should be affordable.
Mr Morris added: "All this information is necessary because the way we put the new policy into action needs to meet the housing requirements of the residents themselves."
Low cost home ownership can be provided by a private developer or registered social landlord and can be offered in a number of ways, including part-ownership, where the resident purchases a percentage of the property and pays a small rent on the remaining share.
Other options could include discounted home ownership, whereby newly built properties are made available for purchase at a discounted percentage of the market value.
To express an interest in low cost home ownership, or to receive further information, call (0191) 527 0501, select option two, then request 'housing services support'.
People can also email jill.waite@easington.gov.uk or emma.regan@easington.gov.uk
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