For those first time buyers who are having trouble raising a deposit for the first rung of the property ladder there may be the answer - in buy-to-let...

There is now a new buy-to-let mortgage product that generates instant equity in rental property without the need for investment capital - all that is needed is a little market research. New build property prices can often be negotiable (as well as some second hand buildings) and if the buyer negotiates a 15% "Builders Deposit" (New build). For second hand properties if you can get a "Gifted Deposit" - i.e. use the discount to finance 100% of the purchase price without investing a single penny.

But how does this help a first time buyer get a mortgage? If the buyer can negotiate a discount they can then rent out the property to cover the mortgage repayments and they will own a significant amount of equity if they were to sell on at a later date - purchase of a bigger property may even be possible with the funds generated.

Marketing Director of Let Mortgages stated: "Due to the high cost of entry into the UK property market, some first time buyers have resorted to purchasing cheaper rental property abroad with a view to reselling the property at a later date and using the profits for a deposit on a UK property."

He continued, "But why take the risk of an overseas investment when you achieve instant equity in property closer to home. This buy to let mortgage product is extremely attractive to both investors and first time buyers, as it provides an opportunity to invest in the UK property market at zero cost."

Of course, this method can also be used by buy-to-let investors, as well as the struggling first time buyers - a way of reducing the risk of investment and getting a good return or simply securing a roof over your head.