Sara Grech considers the options available to first-time buyers and how to get value for money

It's what we all want, a place of our own, a place to call home. However, buying your first home is never easy, especially as money is such an important consideration, particularly when it's your first time taking the leap, as well as considering all other expenses you have to meet, such as car expenses, insurance, etc.

Today, young people, both men and women, are growing up quickly. They mature faster and are more independent at a younger age. As soon as they are settled in their careers and get a good job, they do not hesitate to go to the bank and obtain a loan to buy a property. Whether they are young graduates into their first job or high flying executives studying on the job, the trend is the same. Whereas up to only recently, young people would wait to find a partner and start looking for a property as a couple, this fiercely independent streak is spurring the latest generation on to seek - and buy - their property even when they are single.

One of the first points the first time buyer should consider is using this money to get onto the property ladder. By this I mean buying a place you like, but buying it knowing that in a few years time, when money supply is better, you will want to move into a different property. In other words, don’t think of the first home as the place you will live in for the rest of your lives. Think of it as an investment that you will be able to sell at a much better price in years to come.

Currently the types of properties that are most in demand as a first home are apartments and maisonettes. There is a good selection. All you need is to take your time looking. At Sara Grech, all property consultants understand the needs of first time buyers’ and we make sure we try and help them in a way as to ensure they know what they can get for their money and, more importantly, we help them through the red tape and legal jargon. There are many steps purchases have to go through between signing the preliminary agreement and the final contract, so we do our utmost to ease some of the stress, by guiding them through the process, allowing them to enjoy it for what it is – one of the most exciting times of their lives. All first time buyers may call into any branch to collect a home buyer’s guide or simply download it from our website.