BUDDING buyers looking to get on the housing ladder will be keen to learn of a lovely village where three-bed homes are £70,000 cheaper than the UK average.

As house prices continue to climb the dream of homeownership is beginning to vanish for many.

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Today, first-time buyers will also fork out over a quarter of a million pounds.

New figures by Zoopla, published this month showed the average price of a home is £267,100.

This rises to £451,600 for detached houses.

But if you are willing to be flexible you may be able to find your dream home at a bargain price.

There are still places in the UK where homes are below the national average and they are commutable to major cities.

Take Crosby for example, it is an idyllic coastal town in Sefton, which boasts an award-winning park and stunning beaches.

Three and four-bed homes here are on average £195,100 making them £70,000 below the national average.

Better yet, it is just a 25-minute car drive to Liverpool City.

Let’s take a look at the cheapest houses up for grabs in this area.

Four-bed semi-detached home – £195,000

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This four-bed semi is on the market for £195,000 on Zoopla.

It comes with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two reception rooms.

The property is just a three-minute walk to a number of primary schools and nurseries.

Additionally, it is just a six-minute drive to Waterloo Merseyside, where you can reach Liverpool City in just 26 minutes via train.

You might be able to get a mortgage to buy this house with a 10% deposit of £19,500.

If you got accepted for a 25-year loan with 5% interest, your monthly payments would work out as £1,025.

Three-bed terrace – £185,000

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You can buy this family home in Sefton for £185,000.

It features a large kitchen and dining area alongside three bedrooms and one bath.

Agents at Zoopla said the home is within walking distance of local shops, schools, and transport links.

It is a four-minute drive to Waterloo Merseyside or just under a 10-minute drive to Blundellsands & Crosby train station.

This local transport hub can take you to the city centre in just 24 minutes.

You might be able to get a mortgage to buy this house with a 10% deposit of £18,500.

If you got accepted for a 25-year loan with 5% interest, your monthly payments would work out as £973.

Three bed semi-detached – £220,000

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This property is slightly more expensive than the previous two homes, but still £40,000 less than the UK average.

It comes with three bedrooms and a large conservatory and garden area.

A seven-minute car journey will take you to Blundellsands & Crosby train station, making it ideal for commuters.

You might be able to get a mortgage to buy this house with a 10% deposit of £22,000.

If you got accepted for a 25-year loan with 5% interest, your monthly payments would work out as £1,157

Three-bed semi-detached house -£215,000

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This three-bed and one-bath home would be ideal for anyone looking for a central location in Crosby.

It is a 16-minute walk to Blundellsands & Crosby train station or if you prefer to drive it will take you just three minutes.

The property is bright and has lots of natural light.

If you were looking for a home which you could move into without pouring hundreds into renovations then this could be it.

You might be able to get a mortgage to buy this house with a 10% deposit of £21,500.

If you got accepted for a 25-year loan with 5% interest, your monthly payments would work out as £1,131.

How to save for your first home

HAVE you ever wondered how first-time buyers manage to go from savers to homeowners?

Getting a foot on the property ladder might seem like a daunting task, but The Sun’s My First Home feature allows you to find out exactly what it takes to finally get the keys to your own place.

Leanne Gem managed to buy her £456,000 four-bed house with an “underrated scheme”.

Karis Jacobs and her husband George used the 50/50 method to buy their first home just two years after losing their jobs.

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Parents Chae and Cem used a “DIY Help to Buy scheme” to buy their £466,000 first home.

Anupam and his wife Shrabanti lost £6,000 free cash when buying their first home – here’s how you can avoid it.

AS the cost of living continues to rise, more UK households are looking for easy ways to earn extra cash.

Plenty of Brits are turning to the online survey platform Ipsos iSay to earn cash rewards in exchange for their opinions on a variety of topics.

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Join Ipsos iSay for FREE

With over 33,000 five-star Trustpilot ratings, the lesser-known survey platform encourages users to share their opinions on different topics, thus earning points that can be converted to cash or other rewards.

So if you’re hoping to earn extra cash in the run-up to Christmas without leaving the house, you should think about joining Ipsos iSay.

It’s simple to get started, all you have to do is sign up for a free membership and answer a few questions about yourself first to tailor the available questionnaires to your preferences.

Once you’re signed up, you’ll start receiving survey invitations tailored to your interests, although you may not qualify for all available surveys.

With rewards like cash, gift cards and even charitable donations, it’s no wonder more people are turning to Ipsos iSay to supplement their income.

Dan from Surrey is an Ipsos iSay member who earns £20 a month taking surveys on the platform.

He uses the cash to cover some of his monthly grocery expenses and keep his phone topped up with data.

Other fans of the platform have also revealed how they are using the site to earn extra money and what they are spending it on.

One user said in a five-star review: “Great survey site with generally interesting surveys.

“The points accrue very quickly and it’s easy to get to the minimum level of points to exchange for gift cards.”

Another user commented: “I’ve been doing surveys for close to two years now. Most surveys are relatively short (less than 10 minutes).

“I have probably made in excess of £500 in that time (I choose to be paid by Amazon voucher).

“Every now and then there will be a product test too. I’ve had cleaning products, laundry detergent and, brilliantly, I once even had beers to test!”

What is Ipsos iSay?

Ipsos iSay is an online survey platform operated by global research company Ipsos.

By signing up for a membership, users can share their opinions on topics ranging from societal issues to goods and services.

In return for completing surveys on the platform, participants will earn points that can be redeemed for rewards like cash, gift cards or prizes.

It’s completely free to join as a member, requiring just a few questions about yourself to get started.

Once signed up, you’ll have the opportunity to influence brands and services while getting compensated for your insights.

Ipsos iSay has been praised for its easy-to-use interface and diverse range of survey topics.

How do you earn and redeem rewards?

Ipsos iSay will contact you by email, up to once a day, with available surveys.

Occasionally, you’ll also receive updates and news a few times a month.

Completing surveys earns points that can be redeemed for cash, gift cards and other prizes – the more surveys you complete the more points you’ll earn.

It’s then even more simple to determine how you’d like to receive your reward.

You have the option to cash out your points via PayPal, redeem them for gift cards, or use them towards prizes.

Although Ipsos iSay doesn’t offer huge payouts for surveys, participants are consistently rewarded with points that can quickly add up to exciting rewards.

QUALITY Street fans are up in arms after learning that the brand has discontinued a cherished Christmas favourite.

Customers can no longer visit their local John Lewis store to create personalised Quality Street tins.

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The service allowed shoppers to purchase a £17 tin with a personalised gift card and lid.

They could then fill these tins with their favourite Quality Street chocolates from dedicated pick-and-mix counters at John Lewis.

However, while the pick-and-mix counters still exist, shoppers can’t get a personalised Quality Street tin this winter, according to a Quality Street post on X (formerly Twitter).

Instead, they must opt for the £12 non-customised version.

Reacting to the news on X, one person said: “Took my personalised quality street tin for a refill at John Lewis, Oxford Street and wanted to get a few personalised tins as presents, but they’re not doing it anymore.”

Another said: “No personalised tins of Quality Street this year – it’s a tradition – please bring it back.”

Responding to the comments on X, a Quality Street representative said: “While we are unable to offer personalisation this year, you can still get your hands on the beautiful limited-edition Christmas 2024 tin at John Lewis.

The Sun has contacted Nestle and John Lewis for comment.

Nestle, launched a new version of its 813g Quality Street tin in September.

The £12 tub features all the usual classic flavours and plays on Quality Street’s Halifax heritage – where it was first manufactured in 1936 and still is.

However, it can also be purchased empty and filled at any of John Lewis’ Quality Street pick and mix stations.

If you’re not fussed about the nostalgic tin or picking your chocolates, you’ll pay less for a different tub or packet.

Shoppers can pick up a plastic 600g tub from Tesco for £6 – £1 per 100g.

You can also pick up a 357g sharing bag of Quality Street from B&M for just £4 – £1.12 per 100g.

So, where can I find the pick & mix stations?

Shoppers can create their own bespoke collection of Quality Street favourites to take home, or gift, this Christmas at the pick and mix stations.

These will be located at the following John Lewis stores:

• Bluewater
• Cambridge
• Cardiff
• Cheadle
• Cribbs Causeway
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow
• High Wycombe
• Kingston
• Leeds
• Leicester
• Liverpool
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle
• Nottingham
• Oxford Street
• Peter Jones (Sloane Square)
• Solihull
• Southampton
• Trafford

Nestle has also brought back a Quality Street fan-favourite for the second Christmas in a row.

The coffee creme flavour chocolate was last seen in Quality Street tubs over 20 years ago until the chocolatier reintroduced it last year.

Instead, the coffee-flavour fondant wrapped in dark chocolate has joined the 11 other Quality Street sweets at pick-and-mix stations across selected John Lewis stores in the UK.

They are also available in a limited-edition cracker at Waitrose and John Lewis stores for £5.50.

Paper tub trial

For the first time ever, Nestle is launching paper Quality Street tubs.

The tubs are available at 60 Tesco supermarkets.

Their introduction is part of a trial, and Nestle will gauge the product’s popularity among shoppers.

It claims the paper tub, adorned in the signature Quality Street purple, boasts a luxurious design and feel.

They feature a “re-close” mechanism that ensures the lid can be securely sealed even after opening.

This isn’t the first time Quality Street has introduced new packaging to make the festive favourites easier to recycle.

Nestle left shoppers outraged when it changed the Quality Street chocolate wrappers for the same reason in October 2022.

The iconic brightly coloured plastic and foil wrappers that had encased its famous chocolates for 86 years were replaced with a more understated form of waxed paper.

Since then, shoppers have flocked to X (formerly Twitter) to express their dismay at the loss of the treat’s iconic shiny wrapping, criticising the new look as “cheap” and vowing to switch to the brand’s competitors.

One shopper said: “I’m sorry, but they’re cheap-looking and depressing. They reek of war-time austerity.”

“With food, presentation is important, and the sparkle has gone from Quality Street.”

The introduction of new paper tubs does not signal the immediate discontinuation of plastic and metal Quality Street tins.

Shoppers can still buy 600g plastic tubs of Quality Street chocolates at most major supermarkets.

Tins containing over 800g of the festive chocolates continue to be available too.

ITV thriller fans have spotted this idyllic three bedroom cottage which has been put up for sale for an eye watering price – can you guess which show it’s from?

Avid serial watchers may recognise the home which has hit the market for a sale price of £850,000.

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Known as ‘Well Cottage’ the 17th century grade II listed property is nestled in the country hills of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

The advertisement boasts three bedrooms, one bathroom and 1,601 square feet of living space.

Interior pictures have revealed exposed wooden beams throughout property, low slung ceilings, wooden block flooring and a large inglenook fireplace.

While the exterior is that of a quintessential English country home with a thatched roof, and a typically English country style garden.

There is also a private hedge that surrounds the outside space with meticulously maintained formal gardens spanning over 100 feet.

The cottage was used in a 2010 episode of the popular ITV series, Midsomer Murders, called Blood on the Saddle which centred around a Wild West Show and rival farmers.

The idyllic home includes the kitchen and breakfast room at the rear of the property as well as 100 feet of greenery outside.

There is a stone patio at the rear of the cottage, with a raised terrace area providing the perfect spot for outdoor dining.

The listing is held by estate agent Hamptons who commented on the property.

Their statement read: “Dating back to the 17th century, this quirky grade II listed home offers beautifully presented living spaces that seamlessly blend old-world charm with modern amenities.

“Settled in the middle of the prestigious Long Crendon High Street, this charming cottage was striking enough to be used in a couple of episodes of ‘Midsomer Murders’, and boasts a wealth of exposed beams throughout.

“Upon entering the cottage, you are greeted by an inviting entrance hall that leads to a series of reception rooms.

“Both the dining room and the double-aspect sitting room at the front of the home offer cosy inglenook fireplaces and more exposed beams, adding to the character of the property.

“The kitchen/breakfast room at the rear of the property boasts classic shaker style cabinets and overlooks the lush garden.

“A useful utility area and downstairs cloak room provide further convenience.”

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CADBURY fans are shocked to notice an unexpected product not sold in the UK hanging about on B&M shelves.

The 5 Star Mini Treats are a rare Cadbury product currently selling in the superstore which is usually found only in other parts of the world.

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In fact, the places where you can typically get the treat are India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil, South Africa, the Philippines and Egypt.

The “family pack” bags are now appearing in B&Ms for £2 which is a similar price to its other UK Cadbury sharing products.

One shopper took to Facebook to share a photo of their discovery on the New Foods UK Group.

A person commented: “This looks good.”

Another said: “Right B&M are just aiming to take all my money!”

While a third user wrote: “I wonder what these taste like.”

And a fourth added: “Ooh they look like Wispa Golds but with more caramel.”

In other countries the chocolate usually comes in 15g mini-bars, 45g standard bars or the 150g sharing bags available in B&M.

It is described as a “caramel and nougat” mix covered with “smooth chocolate“.

B&M is yet to show the product on it’s website, meaning it may only be available for a limited time.

It’s also not available in any other UK stores as this moment in time.

Those wishing to try the product should run to their local B&M which they can find using the store locator tool on its website.

Bear in mind that it may not be available in all stores, but if it is, you’ll find it with all the other Cadbury products in the chocolate aisle.

Prices may also vary between sites, so be mindful of how much you’re spending for the amount of chocolate you’re getting.

Cadbury has plenty of other exciting ranges which prop up on shelves every once in a while.

For example, this year a Cadbury’s mint-flavoured twirl appeared on shelves in B&M, originally launched in Australia, and only £1 for four.

There’s also loads of classic fan-favourites making a comeback in time for Christmas, such as the Dairy Milk Chocolate Puds.

For individual pud it costs 75p in Sainsbury’s and just 70p in Waitrose.

You can also buy bags of mini puds for £1.65 in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Poundland.

And the rare 360g Dairy Milk mint crisp bar has returned to some shelves this year – selling cheapest in Asda for £4.

Other Cadbury Christmas bars which are available in supermarkets this year also include the Dairy Milk Classic Wonderland and Mini Snow Balls edition.

Remember to always compare prices when shopping so you know you’re paying the right amount for what you’re getting.

A great way to do this is via the comparison site Trolley which will show the prices for every store.

You can also visit the Cadbury website to browse all their latest products and launches.

How to save money on chocolate

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We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.

Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.

Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

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Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.

They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.

Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.

So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.

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Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

PARENTS are rushing to Sainsbury’s to get their hands on toys for sale, with a mega-shot rifle with foam bullets scanning at tills with 50 per cent off.

It’s one of the biggest pre-Christmas sales around, with loads of parents stocking up on bargain presents for their kids.

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Many savvy savers recently spotted the cheap toys in their local branches and finished festive shopping for the children in their family.

The shoppers posted their find on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook group after snapping up various toys – with some half price.

One of the members who posted about their finds said that they’d have a “happy grandson at Christmas” after picking up a Zuru Xshot for £20 instead of £40 – a 50 per cent saving.

Another member gushed over their items, saying they “will have two very happy little girls at Christmas” after picking up various Barbie dolls and Bluey toys.

The savvy shoppers found the goods in Sainsbury’s highly-anticipated toy sale.

Other shoppers were quick to comment on the purchases.

One comment said: “That’s a great haul I hope you have good hiding places for them!”

Another said: “Hardly anything left in our local.”

And: “Great find!”

The sale, which is just in stores and not online, is expected to last a week.

It’s also a good idea to check your local store’s opening times, as previous years have seen lengthy queues of shoppers desperate to nab a good deal.

As an added bonus, shoppers can both collect and redeem Nectar points on any purchases made in the toy sale.

“One of the great benefits of shopping at Sainsbury’s is the ability to collect and redeem Nectar points,” the Coupon Queen wrote in a post on her website.

“These points can indeed be used during the Sainsburys toy sale, allowing you to save even more on your purchases.

“So, not only can you find great deals on toys, but you can also use your Nectar points to get additional discounts.”

It’s also a good idea to check the return deadlines for any toys before purchasing them.

And remember to check whether or not the toys need batteries to work – and if they’re included.