T AKING your first step onto the property ladder can be a daunting prospect, but for 26-year-old Rachael Johnson the dream of buying a home is now a reality thanks to Dunelm Homes.

For her first home, Rachael chose the two-bedroom Lincoln house style at Nursery Gardens, Stockton.

Like many first-time buyers, Rachael was struggling to save a deposit until she discovered the government-backed FirstBuy scheme.

With FirstBuy, homeowners need only save a five per cent deposit as part of the shared equity deal with Dunelm Homes to access a wider range of mortgages.

“The FirstBuy scheme and the additional help from Dunelm Homes made being able to buy a property seem accessible,” said Rachael.

“Because of the level of deposit I could access through FirstBuy, I’m able to keep my mortgage repayments at a comfortable amount and still own my house.

“I had only been seriously looking for a new home for a couple of weeks, but as soon as I saw the Lincoln I knew it was the one for me.

It’s got generously proportioned rooms and a great area for entertaining. There’s plenty of space for me to grow into.”

Nursery Gardens appealed to Rachael as it offers easy access to her work in Middlesbrough and is also close to friends and family as well as shops, restaurants and bars.

“FirstBuy is an ideal way for people in my position to get their foot on the property ladder,” said Rachael.

“Heidi, my Dunelm sales advisor, was always on hand with lots of useful help and advice to guide me through the process. I can’t thank Heidi and Dunelm Homes enough.”

For details of properties at Nursery Gardens or to find out more about FirstBuy and how Dunelm Homes can help you to step on the property ladder, go to dunelmhomes.co.uk or call sales advisor Heidi Elliot direct on 01642 678360.