For the majority of first time buyers, taking the first step onto the property ladder can be a confusing process, with the dilemma of deciding whether to buy a home or rent. Another key factor in the decision-making process is location with buyers looking for an area that can offer city feel with rural appeal nearby.

Areas such as Sutton Coldfield are deemed highly desirable but with the average price for a property sitting at £308,233* those searching for their first home find the lifestyle they are longing for comes with a hefty price tag. 

Up and coming metropolitan communities such as Erdington, are growing in popularity as first time buyers find it offers a good compromise to city centre living. With two bedroom properties, from Miller Homes Northcote development on George Road, available from £149,950 or, with HomeBuy Direct, from just £104,965 - it is able to offer young buyers a new home well within their price range.

Linda Androlia, regional sales director for Miller Homes West Midlands, said: "With good links to the Midlands motorway network, many First Time Buyers are looking to Erdington to provide the suburban base that they need. Northcote has seen a surge of enquiries from those interested in the new neighbourhood that's just a five mile commute from Birmingham city centre."

The Northcote development also has properties available that can be purchased via HomeBuy Direct, further adding to its appeal.

Under the initiative, buyers have the chance to purchase 100 percent of their home by paying just 70 percent of the value, with both Miller Homes and the Government equally funding the remaining 30 percent.

The 30 percent equity loan only becomes repayable after 25 years or when the customer sells their home, whichever comes first. One of the big bonuses of the scheme is that there is no interest payable for the first five years, and as the initiative is government backed, buyers can feel secure in their investment.

Linda adds: "With the homes at the development available for occupation in August, we strongly encourage all prospective buyers to visit the development in Erdington and see the site plans of the homes that are on offer."

And, anyone visiting the Northcote development will also have the chance enter Miller Homes' birthday bonanza, which runs until 22 May. There are eight holidays up for grabs in the spring competition with the West Midlands region guaranteed one of the holidays - which means someone could be swapping the Midlands for Malaga at some point this summer.