Potential homeowners in South Derbyshire have been taking advantage of the government's new Help to Buy scheme which, since it was introduced in 2013, has helped thousands of people around the county buy a new property.

The scheme enables anyone, both first-time buyers and existing owners, to put down a deposit of just five per cent for a new home through a government equity loan providing access to more affordable mortgage rates.

New figures released by the Homes and Communities Agency have revealed that a total of 2,423 home buyers in Derbyshire have used Help to Buy since it was launched four years ago. More than 800 of these were in South Derbyshire, with the region having the highest number of people in the county taking advantage of the scheme.

Harry Casswell, right, joined by Nik Hardy

Harry Casswell, 25, is one of these and the electrician is currently preparing to move into his own home, in Church Gresley, with help from the scheme. He reserved the house on the Manorfields development in August.

He said: "My experience with Help to Buy couldn't have been better and developers have certain mortgage advisors and solicitors that are ready to do all the hard work for you.

"It helps the affordability of a new home, and if the offer is there, why not? It really helps with buying that first house, which is never cheap, and with everyone you need on hand, it makes everything a breeze."

Mr Casswell is hoping to move into his new pad on Friday, September 29.

Help to Buy works by reducing the amount of money buyers have to pay. For example, someone using the scheme could put down a deposit of £10,000 for a housing costing £200,000. £40,000 would be covered by the government as an equity loan along with a £150,000 mortgage.

Jason Hearn, sales director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: "We are pleased to see that Derbyshire homebuyers are taking advantage of the highly popular Help to Buy scheme."

Jan Ruston, sales director for Barratt Homes North Midlands, said: "This has proved so helpful to many homebuyers in the area and we would encourage anyone looking to buy a home with lower upfront costs to get in touch."

Looking for a job? There are thousands available at www.Fish4.co.uk