First Time Buyer Mortgages

Getting on the ladder has never been easier

Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make. Our friendly, expert adviser guides you through every step of the process — from understanding what you can borrow to collecting your keys.

5% deposit mortgagesGovernment schemes explainedSelf-employed welcomeFree AIP same day
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Tell us about the property

Approximate figures are fine — we'll work out the details together.

Your journey to homeownership

We guide you through every step of buying your first home.

01

Check what you can borrow

We assess your income, outgoings, and deposit to give you a realistic borrowing figure and get you an Agreement in Principle.

02

Find your property

With your AIP in hand, you can confidently make offers. Estate agents take buyers with AIPs more seriously.

03

We submit your application

Once you have an offer accepted, we submit your full mortgage application to the most suitable lender.

04

Mortgage offer & completion

After valuation and underwriting, you receive your mortgage offer. We liaise with your solicitor to get you to completion.

First time buyer mortgages: what you need to know

As a first time buyer in the UK, you have access to a wide range of mortgage products — including standard residential mortgages and government-backed schemes designed specifically to help people onto the property ladder. With the right advice, buying your first home is more achievable than you might think.

The minimum deposit for most mortgages is 5% of the property value (known as a 95% LTV mortgage). The government's Mortgage Guarantee Scheme supports lenders offering these 5% deposit products. Saving a larger deposit — typically 10–15% — will give you access to significantly better rates and reduce your monthly payments.

As an independent mortgage broker, we have access to first time buyer deals from over 90 lenders, including high street banks, building societies, and specialist lenders. We will find the best deal for your specific circumstances, whether you're employed, self-employed, or buying through a shared ownership scheme.

First time buyers in England also benefit from Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) relief on properties up to £300,000 — meaning many first time buyers pay no stamp duty at all. We will explain all the costs involved upfront so you know exactly what to budget for.

First time buyer FAQs

How much deposit do I need as a first time buyer?
Most lenders require a minimum deposit of 5% of the property value (95% LTV). However, a larger deposit — 10% or more — will give you access to better rates and a wider choice of lenders. We will show you the full picture based on your available deposit.
What is an Agreement in Principle (AIP)?
An Agreement in Principle (also called a Decision in Principle or mortgage in principle) is a certificate from a lender confirming they would be willing to lend you a certain amount, subject to full application and valuation. It's a useful tool when making offers on properties. We can arrange this quickly for you.
Can I get a first time buyer mortgage if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed first time buyers can absolutely get a mortgage. Lenders will typically want to see 2–3 years of accounts or tax returns. We know which lenders are most flexible for self-employed applicants and how to present your case effectively.
What government schemes are available to first time buyers?
Current government support includes the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme (5% deposit), Shared Ownership, and First Homes. We will guide you through which schemes you qualify for and whether they benefit your specific situation.
How long does the first time buyer mortgage process take?
From initial enquiry to mortgage offer typically takes 2–4 weeks. Exchange of contracts and completion usually follows 4–8 weeks after that, depending on the property chain. We keep you updated throughout and work to make the process as smooth as possible.

Ready to take your first step?

Get your free Agreement in Principle today. No impact on your credit score for a soft search.

Get a Free Initial QuoteCall 0844 884 9748

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.