An area of Cheshire is booming with first-time buyers who are shunning new builds in favour of larger existing homes on the market.
Buyers are flocking to Crewe in order to get on the market - and in particular properties in the CW2 postcode. Purplebricks - the UK's largest estate agent - say the area is ideal territory for those looking to get on the property ladder.
The CW2 postcode covers south Crewe, including Shavington, Wistaston and Woolstanwood. It's proving popular with first-timers thanks to it's great transport links and local facilities.
Read more: Cheshire mansion where Matalan heir lived up for sale with £15m price tag
This new breed of discerning property hunters are shunning new builds in favour of larger existing housing. These properties are often cheaper than new builds.
Andrea Foster-Bailey, local property partner for Crewe, said: "I've found that the most popular first-time buyer properties in Crewe are predominantly CW2 area and all fall into the older and traditional terraced or semi-detached category. FTBs seem to want spacious accommodation and larger gardens, looking for square footage combined with value for money in comparison to the much smaller new builds.
"CW2 is conveniently situated for Crewe railway station, has excellent public transport links, shops and amenities including the retail park and supermarkets.
"All are within walking distance for those without access to a vehicle. Ex-authority properties are sought after too and generally have heaps of interest and sell on first viewing."
This is a theme repeated across the county. Other popular spots for first-time buyers include Middlewich, Ellesmere Port and Winsford.
Common themes linking the areas include lower value properties with good transport links. These smaller towns all have good road and rail links to major areas of trade and commerce in the North West and further afield.
According to the most recent Office of National Statistics figures, the average UK property price in June 2022 was £286,000. This three-bed property in Shavington is on the market for £245,000.
This semi-detached property comes complete with ample parking, a low-maintenance rear garden and an open plan kitchen and dining area. The property takes up an in-demand corner of Southbank Avenue.
NEWSLETTER: Sign up for CheshireLive email direct to your inbox here
Read next:
"You've done Crewe proud" - Community praised for backing bid to be home of Great British Railways
Man, 29, suffers 'serious head injury' in Crewe - but has no memory of incident
Three more arrests made in Ellesmere Port attempted murder probe
Winsford leisure centre shut until further notice due to 'severe leak'
Inside the £2m penthouse with stunning views over Chester Racecourse