THE North-East housing market is looking stronger than ever, according to national homebuilder Taylor Wimpey.

With around 16 active home schemes in the region, the developer has found itself in a position to release new plots earlier than planned to meet with increasing demand.

Karl Morton, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey North East said: “Since the introduction of Help to Buy in early 2013, there has been a distinct rise in confidence from home-buyers.

“Suddenly, aspiring home-owners no longer felt they would be saving for years, or would have to break the bank for a deposit in order to get a foot on the ladder; and this is reflective in our sales.”

The government-backed Help to Buy initiative offers eligible purchasers the option of securing any new home worth up to the value of £600k with just a five per cent deposit; while also benefitting from a 20 per cent equity loan.

“We have housing schemes all over the North-East, with more in the pipeline to meet this rising demand – so it’s an exciting time for buyers; but also the housing market.”