A Government funding scheme has helped a young couple move into their ‘perfect’ home in time for the arrival of their first child.

First time buyers Katharine Murray and Grant Hooper used the Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme to purchase a newly-built three bedroom house at the Carleton Meadows development in Penrith before baby Alyssa was born.

“Help to Buy: Equity Loan  allowed us to get exactly the house we wanted and within our budget,” said customer services advisor Katharine.

The scheme is available to purchasers of new build homes up to the value of £600,000. Buyers raise a five per cent deposit and the Government provides a 20 per cent equity loan that is interest and repayment free for five years, with a mortgage making up the remainder.

“We knew we wanted to live in Penrith as it is close to both families,” Katharine added. “We had looked at older properties in the town but they needed work. With a baby on the way a new build was perfect. Carleton Meadows is ideal as it’s very quiet and only a short walk from my parents.”

“We chose the Souter style house was it was just the right size and has three double bedrooms.”

Katharine, 29, and joiner Grant, 27, are now comfortably settled in with daughter Alyssa.

Their three-storey house includes a lounge, open-plan dining kitchen, and a spacious master bedroom with en suite on the top floor.

Diane Finch, sales and marketing director for Persimmon Homes Lancashire said: “Helping people to find and buy their dream homes is what makes our jobs so enjoyable. We are thrilled that Katharine and Grant are so happy with their new home, and delighted to welcome baby Alyssa to Carleton Meadows.”

“This is a very popular development, with a range of family homes available from as little as £151,995. Our on-site sales team can give advice on accessing Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme.”