Buying your first home is an exciting milestone. We're here to guide you through the entire process — from finding the right deal to getting the keys to your new home.
Get on the ladder with as little as 5% deposit
Pay no stamp duty on properties up to £300,000
We compare deals from the whole of market
One point of contact from start to finish
From finding the right property to saving up for a deposit, there's a lot to consider. As a first-time buyer, you may be new to the process and unsure where to start.
We'll guide you through every step — explaining the jargon, searching the whole market for the best deal, and handling all the paperwork so you can focus on finding your perfect home.
A mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you'll ever make. That's why we take the time to understand your circumstances and find a product that genuinely works for you — not just the first deal that comes along.
Whether you're buying alone, with a partner, or using a government scheme, our expert advisors are here to help you every step of the way.
From initial chat to keys in hand — we make the process straightforward and stress-free.
We arrange an appointment at a time that suits — face-to-face, video call, or phone — to understand your circumstances and needs.
We search our panel of 100+ lenders for the right product. We're not tied to any lender, giving you access to the best deals.
We present the best option, explaining all features and benefits — no jargon, no pressure.
From application to completion, our team handles everything and keeps you updated throughout.
Before you start your search, here are some key factors that will affect your mortgage options.
You'll typically need a minimum of 5% of the property value, though 10% or more will unlock better rates. Family members can gift your deposit, and some lenders accept guarantors.
Your credit rating has a big impact on what mortgage deals and rates you can access. Check your credit report before applying and take steps to improve it where possible.
As a first-time buyer, you pay no stamp duty on properties up to £300,000 and a reduced rate on properties up to £500,000 — saving you thousands.
Fixed rates give certainty on monthly payments. Tracker rates follow the Bank of England base rate and can be cheaper overall, but payments may fluctuate.
Life insurance and income protection are worth considering alongside your mortgage. They ensure your mortgage gets paid if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
Don't forget solicitor fees, surveyor fees, mortgage arrangement fees, and moving costs. We'll help you budget for the full picture so there are no surprises.
Answers to the questions we hear most from first-time buyers.
To qualify as a first-time buyer, you or your co-buyer must have never owned a property before. Even if you inherit a property, you're still classified as a first-time buyer until you purchase your first property.
Generally, you'll need a minimum of 5% of the property value. The larger your deposit, the lower the interest rates you may receive. Family members can gift your deposit, and some lenders may accept a family member as a guarantor.
The amount you can borrow depends on your income, deposit, existing credit commitments, and monthly outgoings. Most lenders offer between 4 and 4.5 times your annual salary. Our advisors can provide a precise affordability assessment for your circumstances.
As a first-time buyer (from April 2025), you pay no Stamp Duty on properties up to £300,000. On properties between £300,001 and £500,000, you pay 5% on the portion above £300,000. Properties over £500,000 don't qualify for first-time buyer relief.
Yes, it's still possible with bad credit, though you may not access the most competitive rates. Our whole-of-market access includes specialist lenders who consider applicants with CCJs, defaults, or missed payments.
From initial consultation to getting your keys, the process typically takes 8–12 weeks. This can vary depending on complexity, the property chain, and how quickly solicitors and the lender work. We keep you updated at every stage.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our expert advisors. We'll help you understand your options and find the right mortgage for your first home.
