RAISING the deposit for a property is usually the hardest hurdle to overcome, but now new buyers are being given a helping hand.

Connells has launched a new scheme to help first-time buyers on to the property ladder by offering a buy-now, no-deposit-required offer.

Karen Langley, area director for Connells, said: "We know that there are many first-time buyers who want to buy, and indeed are currently paying as much in rent as they would in monthly mortgage payments, but they simply can't afford to put down the deposit on their own property.

"We are asking sellers who are keen to get moving to "gift" the five per cent deposit to enable the sale to go ahead."

Sellers who sign up to the scheme will have a distinct advantage over those marketing similar properties where the buyer has to fund the deposit.

Ms Langley added: "In today's market, where buyers have plenty of choice, it is more important than ever to make your property stand out from the crowd."

For more information about the scheme, contact Connells on 01494 534822.