BARRATT Homes North East is celebrating the success of the government-backed Help to Buy scheme after it recently completed its 1,000th purchase via the initiative.

Twenty-six-year-old financial advisor Laura Sanderson – who was living at her family home in Billingham – had looked into buying an older home, but knew it would be too much of a stretch financially when it came to repayments and the necessary refurbishments that older properties often need.

The sales team at Barratt’s Burton Woods development in Spennymoor supported Laura in looking at options to purchase her perfect home at the site with the aid of Help to Buy.

The scheme makes the process much more affordable for people, offering house hunters an easier way to get their first step on, or move up, the property ladder, as they need just a five per cent deposit and will get an equity loan of up to 20 per cent.

Speaking of her experience of buying with Barratt Homes, Laura said: “Purchasing a new build was perfect for me as I didn’t have extra funds for any work that might need to be carried out on an older home – and I knew that buying with Barratt would come with quality new kitchen and bathroom fittings.

“I’m so grateful for Helen’s help in finding a new home for me and talking me through Help to Buy – I wouldn’t be in the house I have now without it!”

Christie Edge, sales manager at Burton Woods, said: “We are thrilled that Laura has been able to buy her first home with us, and have seen the popularity of Help to Buy soar over the past few years.

“Burton Woods appeals to many buyers, from young professionals to families, and we are proud to have helped Laura get her foot on the property ladder and join the great community here in Spennymoor. We’d urge anyone looking to buy in the area to pop in and speak to our expert team as they’re on hand to help and advise on all the options available when purchasing a new home.”

Set in the wildlife haven of Whitworth Park, Burton Woods is an established community which seamlessly combines the natural environment with new homes. The development is home to a range of two, three and four-bedroom homes, and is popular with families and young professionals alike.

Homes are available to purchase from £144,995.

To find out more about Burton Woods visit barratthomes.co.uk/burtonwoods.