I AM intrigued by the recent media frenzy about first-time buyers not being able to get a foot on the housing ladder.

About five weeks ago, after the death of a relative, we put a two-bedroomed terraced house with garage on the market.

Fired up by the various television programmes promoting DIY and the never-ending interviews with potential buyers all complaining that it's just not possible to buy a house in York for less than £100,000, we priced it at a knock-down figure of £93,500 and waited for the thunder of feet and rustle of bankers' drafts at our door.

We are still waiting. Not only haven't we had any first-time buyers, but we have only attracted two developers, who insulted us with vastly-reduced offers. Why?

Beth and Brian Dale,

Lilbourne Drive,

Hawthorn Meadows,

Water Lane, York.

...YOUR report on the proposed redevelopment of York Barbican Centre (June 20) stated that of the 180 homes planned for the site only 40 were "expected to be affordable". This implies the other 140 will be unaffordable. For whom are these "unaffordable" homes intended?

Michael Blakemore,

De Grey Terrace, York.

Updated: 10:46 Friday, June 27, 2003