The best places in Northampton for first-time buyers.The best places in Northampton for first-time buyers.
The best places in Northampton for first-time buyers.

Here are the top seven areas for first time buyers to purchase properties in Northampton - according to expert estate agent

Estate agent reveals best areas in town for first time buyers and offers advice

Here's a list of the top seven areas in Northampton for first time buyers to purchase properties - according to an expert estate agent.

Senior sales director at Cotters Property, Ray Pusey, has revealed his top picks, and provided sound advice, for first time buyers in the town.

Ray said: "It's really difficult for first time buyers because of the high prices. They are struggling. Without the bank of mum and dad it's hard to get on the ladder.

"They need a good size deposit because prices have gone up a lot. I would say they need a minimum of a five percent deposit, but the more they can put down the better."

Ray said typical first time buyer homes - usually a two-bed terrace - tend to sell at £210,000, so you should look to save around £15,000 for a deposit.

However, it's still a struggle for one person to get on the ladder unless they have a very well paid job to cover the mortgage, Ray says.

He added: "People have just got to save. If you can buy with someone that would be better because you will struggle on your own.

"Investors are also competing for cheaper houses as the buy-to-let market is fairly active. So first time buyers are competing with them too.

"I would advise people look into a help to buy ISA as it could help you to buy a new build. Some of the prices on those new builds are just staggering.

"If I was a first time buyer, I would still look at Victorian properties over modern properties. The Victorian homes are better built and more solid.

"I do think the market will cool down a bit and stabilise."

For more information about Cotters Property, click here.