Doncaster is new haven for first time buyers

The latest figures published by the government on its Help to Buy equity loan scheme reveal that 1,779 loans have been granted to first time buyers in Doncaster since the scheme began in 2013.

By comparison, 1,372 loans have been granted to buyers in Barnsley, 1,254 to those in Sheffield, and 1,125 to buyers in Rotherham.

Boasting an average house price of £161,443, Doncaster's appeal to those looking to take their first step onto the property ladder and this also extends to its easily commutable distance from Sheffield and Leeds, proximity to Doncaster Sheffield airport, and a direct train line to London. Doncaster town centre is also set to benefit from a £10m regeneration plan, which is set to be completed by 2023.

Of the government loans granted to Doncaster’s first time buyers, around 13 per cent have been secured against new homes built by Barratt Developments, with the five star housebuilder currently offering three developments totalling 530 new properties across the town.

Park Edge in Wheatley, Torne Farm in New Rossington, and Lancaster Gardens in Harworth, each offer a range of attractive new two, three and four bedroom homes, perfect for first time buyers and growing families.

The housebuilder also recently launched its fourth development in the region, with Kings Lodge on Doncaster Road in Hatfield offering an initial 75 stylish two, three, and four bedroom homes. Located on the edge of the village, each will be surrounded by picturesque farmland, with Hatfield’s independent shops, cafes and pubs just a short walk away.

With the latest iteration of the government’s Help to Buy scheme, launched on the April 1, Barratt Developments is urging first time buyers to act now to avoid missing out on their dream home. The scheme will be available at all four of its developments in Doncaster, with plenty of options available within the Help to Buy Yorkshire price cap of £228,100, or £261,900 for its Lancaster Gardens scheme.

With Help to Buy, buyers are able to purchase a new home with just a five per cent deposit and a 75 per cent mortgage. The remaining 20 per cent is funded by an equity loan, interest-free for the first five years and repayable on the sale on the home.

Paul Hogan, Sales Director at Barratt Homes Yorkshire East, said: “That all important combination of affordable property prices and great links to the wider attractions of South Yorkshire makes Doncaster a great option for those looking to take that first step onto the property ladder.

“The launch of the government’s new Help to Buy scheme offers the potential for many more first time buyers to secure their dream home in Doncaster over the course of this year.”

For more information, take a closer look at Barratt Homes’ variety of new homes in Doncaster

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.