Scottish builders have been leading the way in efforts to keep the housing market moving, with paid stamp duty packages widely available at many developments long before last month's Treasury announcement that this duty would be axed for a year on properties less than GBP175,000. Indeed, some builders are now offering to pay the duty on properties above this limit.

Overall, offers range from partexchange or deposit paid, to price discounts or free 'extras' such as floor coverings and fittings.

Of course, once purchased, a new home is going to be more cost-effective to maintain than a second-hand property. Around four times more energy-efficient, new homes have lower heating bills and, with modern kitchens and bathrooms, buyers don't have to spend money on upgrades.

For many new buyers right now, however, the savings can also begin at the actual point of purchase. The variety of deals around are targeted at a wide range of buyers, whether those struggling to take their first steps on to the property ladder or existing owners keen to take a step up on size or location.

However, if buyers want to unlock the deal that will best suit their needs and budgets, then they must ensure they opt for a package that is going to be a good fit.

Many first-time buyers, for instance, will find 5per cent deposits paid a particularly useful deal. In fact, many of the incentives are specifically aimed at helping new buyers to break down the initial financial barriers.

Rental schemes, offered with a number of catchy titles, basically allow potential buyers to rent a property for up to a specified period, with all or a proportion of the rent paid then going forward as the deposit when the tenant/buyer decides to convert the arrangement to a sale.

Also on offer are shared equity deals, in which buyers initially pay 75-85per cent of the property's price, and defer the remainder until the property is sold or a specific time slot, perhaps 10 years, is reached. The buyer still retains 100per cent ownership of the property concerned.

Some builders will have a number of incentive options, and will offer to tailor a particular package to suit the buyer.

It's therefore definitely worth talking directly to the builder to see if there is a deal that can be worked out to suit your needs.

Among those offering incentives just now is CALA Homes, with various options on selected properties at each of its developments, including cashback, discounts and interior design packages. Stamp duty paid and part-exchange are available on selected plots for entry on or before December 19.

For instance, at Canniesburn, CALA has a two-bedroom apartment plus study down from GBP199,000 to GBP175,000 and stamp-duty exempt.

A number of builders are offering assistance with mortgages, including fixed rates equivalent to 3.99per cent and 4.99per cent fixed rate over three years. Many provide free mortgage advice plus a free survey and GBP500 off conveyancing fees if the sale goes ahead.