A RISE in house prices in Worcestershire has renewed concern for first-time buyers who could have to rely on a "golden handout" to jump aboard the property ladder.

Potential homeowners breathed a sigh of relief at the end of May as prices slowed and then fell for the first time since the property market began to rocket out of control in 2001.

But, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, over the last few weeks the average property price in Worcestershire has once again crept up by one per cent.

Although good for homeowners, buyers are finding houses moving further and further out of reach, with enquiries from first-time buyers throughout August dropping even further.

"There is a widening gap between the first time buyer's ability to purchase and the availability of suitable, affordable housing," said Anthony Champion FRICS, from Humberts estate agents in Worcester.

"As with other areas in the region, price rises are putting properties out of reach and unless people have, or can obtain, a deposit, it is becoming difficult for such people to get a foot on the property ladder.

"Virtually the only way for new buyers to enter the market is to group together with friends or turn to their parents for support - the so-called 'golden handout'.

He said with prices holding firm, this concept was set to become as essential as parents saving for their children's university education.

"Buying a house is a major decision for everyone, but as a first-time buyer it is a leap into the unknown and this requires a certain degree of confidence, as well as money," he said.

"The situation does not look set to change in the remainder of the year and RICS still maintains that the increase in prices across the West Midlands region will be nine to 10 per cent year on year, based on our prediction in January 2003.

"First-time buyers would be advised to gather together a deposit while mortgage rates are so competitive.

"The rewards will be seen in the future as house prices rise, although not at the same dramatic rate as in the last two years."