More residents wanting to buy their own home can get a helping hand following the launch of a new affordable housing scheme in Basingstoke and Deane.

First Homes is a government scheme designed to support local first-time buyers to buy a new property that is discounted by at least 30% of open market value, up to £250,000.

The borough’s first delivery of these First Homes properties are now on the market, offering another way for first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder as part of the council’s package of low cost home ownership options.

Four one-bedroom houses in Ecchinswell Road, Bishops Green are the first to be delivered, under the new scheme. Each home is available at a post-discount price of £175,000.

To be eligible, first-time buyers must:

• have a gross household income of no more than £80,000.
• meet local connection criteria for Basingstoke and Deane, with priority in the first six weeks for those connected to Ecchinswell, Sydmonton, Bishops Green, or adjoining parishes.
• be able to obtain a mortgage for at least 50% of the discounted price.
• provide a minimum five per cent deposit.
• not have another home.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and Housing Cllr Laura James said: “We are always looking at new ways that we can boost the options for low cost home ownership for residents wanting to buy a home of their own who might otherwise be priced out of buying their own home.

“It is great that we are now seeing First Homes being delivered locally and it is a fantastic opportunity for local people in Bishops Green and the surrounding parishes to buy their first home and stay in the communities they know and love. We are looking forward to more homes being delivered in the future through this scheme.”

As more First Homes are delivered in Basingstoke and Deane, they will be advertised on the borough’s dedicated low cost home ownership register. To find out more and register, visit https://basingstoke.homeconnections.org.uk/

Residents can also book one-to-one appointments with the council’s low cost home ownership team to get information and guidance by emailing LCHO@basingstoke.gov.uk or calling 01256 845173.