IN UNCERTAIN times, it is difficult to guess whether the housing market has stablised or whether prices will move lower or head in a positive direction.

One enterprising developer has come up with an answer for prospective purchasers not sure how to read the market conditions – try before you buy.

John Fisher, head of T A Fisher, said: “In this fluctuating market, with constant speculation about future trends, there is most definitely an attraction in being able to initially rent the property you’re interested in buying, with an option to buy at an agreed price 12 months later.”

And that’s what is on offer at Cliddesden Place, T A Fisher’s latest gated development in Basingstoke, which brings together a mix of houses and 14 one and two-bedroomed apartments with prices from £200,000 to £495,000.

The development has been designed to create contemporary homes for the 21st century lifestyle, but in a leafy setting in Cliddesden Road, a favoured residential location within walking distance of Basingstoke town centre.

Mr Fisher said: “In designing our ‘try before you buy’ package of options, we’re guaranteeing a ‘win-win’ situation for the prospective purchaser.

“At the outset, we agree rental terms, usually for 12 months, and also agree a firm purchase price fixed for that same period of time.

“At the end of the 12 months, the prospective purchaser can then exercise their option to buy if they wish.”

The scheme has been designed for people who really want to settle into a home of their own, but remain concerned about the stability of the housing market.

It offers the flexibility of a rental and, at the same time, is a hedge against the market should property prices rise in the future.

“The benefit to the buyer is agreeing a set buying price, which will not increase.

Mr Fisher added: “We are a forward-thinking company, and are prep-ared to be flexible and as helpful as possible to our future customers.

“We are quite happy to negotiate an agreement which suits all parties, which could potentially include part-exchange and shared equity schemes.

“We understand the difficulties that prospective buyers are experiencing, especially when it comes to securing mortgage finance.”