Affordability improves for first-time home-buyers

First-time buyers are finding it easier to get on the property ladder, according to the latest "affordability index" from EBS and DKM.

The figures show that the average first-time buyer working couple was spending almost 9% less in mortgage repayments at the end of 2007 compared to December 2006.

This is down to a number of factors, including falling prices and increases in earnings.

The EBS also says it expects property prices to begin increasing again in the medium term.