Options Bubbling Over for First-Time Buyers
The 17th September saw the launch of the first ever television advertising campaign to promote affordable housing options available to first time buyers. This unprecedented event, initiated by Mercian Housing Association, has seen over 30 organisations including housing associations, local authorities, private developers and financial advisors from across the Midlands joining together for the first time to raise awareness in an innovative way.
As Government appointed key HomeBuy agent in the West Midlands, Birmingham based Mercian Housing Association co-ordinated the campaign to promote HomeBuy, a range of home ownership products for first time buyers to help them onto the first step of the property ladder.
Over the last ten years, house prices have risen by 139 per cent, but earnings have risen less than 25 per cent, meaning that it’s harder than ever for first time buyers to be able to afford to buy a property.
Home Ownership Manager at Mercian, Linda Woodall commented, “Its common knowledge that it’s not easy for first time buyers to get on the property ladder. However, many young people don’t know about their options, they don’t know about the HomeBuy products and there is a general perception that owning their own property is out of reach. Housing is high on the Government agenda, so there is a growing need to turn this perception around. ”
The advertising campaign has seen overwhelming support from partners from throughout the Midlands, with generous contributions to the funding. The bubbly themed advert had its first screening at an event held last week at the ITV Studios in Birmingham. The event was a huge success with all contributors present.
Speaking at the event, Laurice Ponting, Chief Executive at Mercian Housing said, “This is a unique collaboration and demonstrates the collective power we have to change lives for the better. This is not only a first for the East and West Midlands, but a first for UK – something for us all to be proud of.”
Watch the TV commercial online