2 October 2006

First-time buyers could be boosted, after a new website has been created which aims to help them to get a foot on the property ladder.

The new online service, which has been created by HSBC, features an expert panel comprised of a surveyor, an estate agent, a solicitor and a financial adviser.

Webcasts will be held each month, with the panel discussing different problem areas facing first-time buyers.

Carina Kemp, head of mortgages at HSBC said: "The choice and complexity of all the component parts of buying a property can be bewildering and first-time buyers often don’t know where to turn to get advice."

Several experts, including spokesman for the Council of Mortgage Lenders Bernard Clarke, have stated that first-time buyers may find it increasingly difficult to find an affordable mortgage.

HSBC has stated that the portal is an independent source of advice, with spokeswoman Katherine Kowalski telling IFAonline that it is "absolutely not" an attempt to sell products.

© Adfero Ltd

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