Best of modern family living.

WITH bags of space and little maintenance it's little wonder that new-build properties are often a draw for families.

Here we take a look at what's available across the region.

Bedlington, Northumberland IF you have a teenager in your family or have always liked the idea of a games room, then David Barlow Homes' four-bedroom Hampshire at Stakeford near Bedlington is ideal.

Built over three floors, the property has a master suite with shower and built-in wardrobes on the first floor, plus two other bedrooms and a bathroom.

A further spacious bedroom takes up the top floor - perfect for anyone who appreciates his or her own space.

The Hampshire is from pounds 189,950 and also includes a garage.

A similar family home at Stakeford is David Barlow Homes' Hamilton, priced from pounds 159,950.

For details, tel: [phone].

Stanley, County Durham MCINERNEY Homes has launched a new incentive aimed at families this week at Greenfields, Kip Hill near Stanley. Available under the 'be in by Christmas' scheme is a choice of Chestnut family homes, perfect for enjoying festive cheer and entertaining the whole family in.

The Chestnut is pounds 235,000 on a choice of two plots, 95 or 49.

A striking four-bed detached property, its modern design complete with integral garage is proving a big hit with families.

The ground floor has a lounge as well as an impressive kitchen which is extended into a dining and family area.

The family area also boasts French doors to the rear garden.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms and a large bathroom. There is an en suite to the master bedroom.

For information, tel: [phone].

Consett, County Durham THE Wesley Lea development in Consett is ideal for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while remaining within easy reach of Newcastle and Durham.

With the River Derwent close by, Wesley Lea is an elevated cul-de-sac site which comprises a collection of 27 three-bedroom semi-detached and three and four-bedroom detached homes created by Gladedale.

The three-bedroom semi-detached Chillingham home is pounds 149,995.

The ground floor has a lounge and kitchen with French doors leading to the garden.

There is also a dining room and cloakroom on this level.

A staircase leads up to three bedrooms and the family bathroom. The master bedroom has an en suite with extra large shower cubicle and a walk-through dressing/wardrobe area.

The development enjoys a wealth of local amenities including a library, swimming pool, and local schools.

Prices start from pounds 149,995 for a three-bedroom, semi-detached home. To find out more, tel: [phone].

Hamsterley, County Durham BUYERS aspiring to own a family home should take a look at the Byron property at Miller Homes' Derwent View development.

The five-bedroom Byron is ideal for families looking to move up the property ladder. Priced at pounds 235,000, the Byron offers value for money.

For more information, tel: [phone].

CAPTION(S):

SLEEK AND MODERN The kitchen of a typical David Barlow home. MODERN DESIGN The exterior of McInerney's Chestnut at Kip Hill, left, and the exterior of a typical Miller home. SPACIOUS McInerney's Chestnut living room, above. Below, Gladedale's Wesley Lea lounge, to be found in homes at their Consett development.