Getting onto the property ladder is a struggle for first time buyers. Even if they can afford repayments they may not be able to raise a mortgage.

That’s where parents can help. By acting as parental guarantor you can give your children independence and a new property.

"This is just one way in which first-time buyers can get a new home in this difficult climate," says Jo Richards, marketing and corporate manager for Hillreed Homes.

"If parents are fortunate enough to have some capital then they could put in five per cent and together with the developer putting in five per cent this is sufficient for the building societies to accept as the deposit."

Property prices are extremely keen at the moment so helping offspring onto the property ladder might prove a very astute move.

Hillreed has a number of other ideas and incentives on offer. The New Homes Mortgage Helpline gives advice and guidance on the type of property price a buyer can afford and the type of mortgage and monthly repayments they would have to pay.

The helpline website www.nhmh.co.uk operates seven days a week, including evenings and home visits can be arranged.

Other incentives on some developments include stamp duty and legal fees paid and price reductions which reflect the current market place.

And the Helping Hand Scheme is a great way of helping buyers to move forward. In essence you only pay 85 per cent of the asking price. You then have up to 10 years to pay the remaining 15 per cent.

From the day you buy the property you own it 100 per cent. There is no rental or other costs on the outstanding 15 per cent.