What a first-time buyer mortgage actually is.
A first-time buyer mortgage is designed for people purchasing their first property. Lenders often offer more competitive rates, lower deposit options, and access to government schemes that are not available to existing homeowners.
As a whole of market broker, we compare every viable lender and recommend the deal that fits your income, deposit, and the property you want to buy. Not the deal that is easiest for us to process.
The facts that matter for your first home.
Minimum 5% Deposit
Some lenders accept as little as 5% deposit for first-time buyers. Larger deposits open better rates.
Agreement in Principle
We arrange an AIP within 24 hours so you can put offers in with confidence.
Government Schemes
We advise on Shared Ownership, Right to Buy, First Homes, and Right to Acquire.
No Upfront Fees
We only charge on completion. No hidden costs at any stage.
Everything we do for you.
Agreement in Principle
We secure your AIP quickly so you can make offers with confidence and stand out to sellers.
Whole of market search
We compare hundreds of deals across 90+ lenders to find the right rate for your case.
Application management
We handle the paperwork, the underwriting questions, and the lender liaison from start to finish.
Solicitor coordination
We work alongside your solicitor to keep the chain moving and pre-empt problems.
Protection review
We make sure your home and your income are properly protected from day one of ownership.
Ongoing support
We review your mortgage before it expires and stay with you long term as life changes.
Government schemes we advise on.
Shared Ownership
Buy a share of a property between 25% and 75% and pay rent on the remaining share. Useful when a full deposit on the open market is not realistic.
Right to Buy
If you are a council tenant you may be entitled to buy your home at a significant discount. We arrange Right to Buy mortgages regularly.
First Homes Scheme
First-time buyers can purchase a new build home at a discount of at least 30% compared to market value, where the scheme is available.
Right to Acquire
If you are a housing association tenant you may be able to purchase your home at a discount. Similar to Right to Buy, applied to housing association properties.
Eligibility criteria apply and schemes are subject to change. We will confirm which options are available to you during your consultation.
Six steps from first call to keys.
Initial consultation
A free call to understand your situation, deposit, income, and what you are looking for.
Agreement in Principle
We arrange your AIP so you can start making offers with confidence.
Property found
Once your offer is accepted, we begin the full mortgage application.
Mortgage application
We submit the application and manage the lender from end to end.
Mortgage offer
The lender issues a formal mortgage offer. Your solicitor handles the legal work from here.
Completion
You get the keys to your first home. We set the reminder for your next review.
First-Time Buyer FAQs.
How much deposit do I need as a first-time buyer?
Most lenders accept a minimum of 5%. The larger your deposit, the better the rate you will typically receive. We will advise on the right level for your situation.
Can I get a mortgage on my own?
Yes. Single applicant mortgages are common. Borrowing will be based on your income alone, but plenty of lenders offer competitive rates for sole applicants.
How long does the process take?
First consultation to completion is typically 3 to 6 months, depending on the property and the speed of your solicitor. We keep things moving.
What is an Agreement in Principle?
An AIP is a statement from a lender confirming they would lend you a certain amount in principle. It signals to sellers and agents that you are a serious buyer.
Can I use a government scheme and a broker?
Yes. We advise on every major scheme and combine that with whole of market mortgage research to land the right outcome.
What costs should I budget for besides the deposit?
Solicitor fees, survey costs, stamp duty where applicable, broker fee, and moving costs. We will give you a full breakdown during your consultation.
