Colchester has been found to be one of the most desirable places to live for first time buyers.

Credit broker money.co.uk analysed data on how the pandemic will affect home buying across the country.

It comes as the Government extended the Help to Buy scheme so first time buyers were not adversely affected by coronavirus delaying building work.

The analysis found Colchester ranked in the 10 most popular places to buy a first time home outside of London.

The borough ranked in at 5th on the list with 2,195 help to buy purchases having been made.

Average house prices are £253,759 and there is a 49 minute comute to London.

Most desirable area for commuters was found to be Central Bedfordshire followed by Milton Keynes.

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Salman Haqqi personal finance expert from money.co.uk said: “With the property and construction market coming to a standstill earlier this year, home builders faced increased pressure to complete builds prior to the Help to Buy deadline.

“The Help to Buy extension is expected to not just relieve the pressure for homebuilders, but also boost opportunities for first time buyers.

"There are great benefits for buyers to take advantage of this, prior to the new version of the scheme being introduced next April, where house prices are capped lower.

“What’s more, with the office life increasingly changing, prospective buyers should assess the financial and lifestyle benefits of buying a home away from the capital.

"With popular Help to Buy areas being so close to London, commuter towns are expected to experience increased popularity as a result of this.

“Further to this, with the benefit of a government equity loan, it opens up more mortgage options in a limited market.

"Those uncertain about utilising the scheme, should speak to a mortgage advisor to ensure they know exactly what it entails, and that it is the right option for their personal circumstances.”