With a range of incentives on offer and continued low interest rates, first-time buyers are finding now is a great time to buy a new home.

At Persimmon Homes' Heronsbrook development at Minster, Ramsgate, the developer is offering a 75 per cent Helping Hand shared equity scheme.

Edward Owens, managing director for Persimmon Homes South East, said: "We're proud to offer properties to local house-hunters which are both attractive and affordable.

"With interest rates continuing to remain low, monthly mortgage repayments are reported to be 10.5 per cent less than rental figures. We're seeing a great number of new visitors to our Heronsbrook development, looking to take their first step on to the property ladder instead of being caught out in the rental market"

For more details on two, three or four-bedroom homes at Heronsbrook, priced from £119,995, ring 08444 900 142 or see www.persimmonhomes.com

At Antler Homes, Bishop's Field, Maidstone, where two-bedroom apartments are priced from £139,950, a shared equity scheme for first-time buyers, is available on selected plots.

With a five per cent deposit, you can buy 100 per cent of the property at 80 per cent of the purchase price.

Tim Foreman, Antler Homes sales and marketing director, said: "First-time buyers are often hard pressed to save enough for their deposit so this scheme is welcome news for them. Our apartments at Bishop's Field are finished to a very high standard with top-quality specification."

The two-bedroom apartments are ready to move into now and include two bathrooms, a fitted kitchen and spacious living/dining room.

Call 01622 751034 or see http://www.antlerhomes.co.uk/