life.

But not so for the first time buyers of a small housing development in Redcoat Lane, St. George's.

The six three-bedroom properties are the last stage of a special Government project to help people get on the housing ladder.

Built in traditional Bermuda-style, they are near beaches at Tobacco Bay and Fort St. Catherine.

In June they were each quickly snapped up for $265,000, and generous mortgage terms were thrown into the deal.

This week Housing Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness officially opened the development.

And he took time off to meet the delighted new home owners.

"They are all very, very happy with their homes, which are extremely attractive in a semi-rural area,'' said Mr. Edness afterwards.

"As well as first time buyers they are also first class people, in my opinion.

"They have already got together to discuss community interests.'' Mr. Edness explained the Bermuda Housing Corporation development was the final stage of a scheme to build 100 new properties.

It followed a 1987 report calling for action over a housing shortage.

The homes were started in July, 1991 and completed in June, 1992. The main contractor was HiSpan Construction Company Ltd.

Mr. Edness pledged Government would continue to help first-time buyers through its mortgage and redevelopment programmes.

"I would like every family to own their own home -- that is the goal. It may be impossible, but it's something to aim for.'' HOME SWEET HOME -- Seven-year-old Aaron Symonds cuts the tape to officially open the Redcoat Lane development. Behind him (from left) are his father and one of the new home owners the Rev. Dennis Symonds, Housing Minister, the Hon.

Quinton Edness, Shadow Education Minister Miss Jennifer Smith, and administrative assistant to the general manager of Bermuda Housing Corporation, Mrs. Carol Wharton. Full story below).