House prices have been rising for six months, and it looks like nothing's going to stop them now. Even a 'double dip' recession probably won't be enough to send property values back down - or at least not much.

So it's the perfect time for first time buyers to get back into the market. But something's stopping them: they're just too worried.

New research in Britain and the US shows that buying a first home is more stressful than having a first child.

It's not surprising - after all, no-one wants to throw £200,000 into a house if prices fall again and you can't sell it.

But should first-time buyer be scared? All evidence points to medium-term strong growth in the housing market. The population keeps rising and the underlying economy is strong.

Right now banks, building societies and other mortgage lenders are just starting to offer first time buyers special mortgages and incentives again.

During the credit crunch you needed a whopping deposit – 25%-40% - to get a reasonable deal. But this week Yorkshire Building Society launched a first time buyers home loan with no arrangement or legal fees, pegged at 6.49% for five years, requiring only 10% deposit.

Halifax offers a first time buyer mortgage needing a 15% deposit fixed for three years at 6.39% with a £995 arrangement fee.

Banks asking for smaller deposits is a welcome change. But you still need savings.

NatWest is offering up to £5,000 cashback to First Home Saver account holders who then take out a NatWest mortgage.

Estate agents are now reporting a rush of enquiries from young couples. There is a danger, however, because the evil buy-to-let landlords are also on the case and the odds are stacked in their favour.