Miller Homes West Midlands is predicting that the new year could spell bright things for those looking to take a step on to the property ladder.

Despite a gloomy 2010, when the number of first-time buyers plunged to just 160,000 (compared to over half a million in previous years), the latest surveys are suggesting that first-time buyers will return to the property market this year.

Up to 40% of first-time buyers asked by FirstRungNow.com said they can now put down a 10% deposit after executing careful saving plans, with research by property website Rightmove suggesting that one in four people who hope to buy a property during the coming year will be first-time buyers - up from a low of 22% in July.

Andrew Moorhead, Marketing Manager for Miller Homes West Midlands, said: "Many potential buyers seem to think that prices are falling, so as long as interest rates remain low, this is a great time for people to make the first step on to the property ladder. Getting on to the property market can be a scary time, but our excellent team of sales advisors can make it that bit easier and relatively stress-free for young buyers.

"Plus, with great incentives available on many of our Miller homes, there couldn't be a better time for first time buyers to get started."

In particular, some house hunters may be viable for Miller's MiWay initiative. The scheme gives buyers the opportunity to own a brand new home by paying from just 75 percent of its value, with Miller Homes funding the remaining 25 percent.

Andrew added: "The purpose of the MiWay Scheme is to make home buying an easier experience for those who think it will be a scary or daunting prospect. The scheme is proving to be extremely popular, so I urge those looking to purchase a new property not to leave it too long."