“Mark and Jodie were exceptional. They gave us quality, trusted advice at every step of the process.”
First-time buyer mortgages
Your first home, without the guesswork
Buying your first home is exciting and a bit daunting. We'll tell you what you can borrow, which schemes could help and what happens at every stage, in plain English.
What we do for you
Someone in your corner from viewing to keys
Most first-time buyers have the same worries: is my deposit enough, will my credit score hold me back, and what on earth is a decision in principle? That's exactly what we're here for.
- A clear borrowing figureA realistic budget based on your income, outgoings and deposit, so you view the right homes.
- Agreement in principleShow estate agents you're serious and ready to move when you find the one.
- Smaller-deposit optionsLenders and schemes for 5% and 10% deposits, plus family-assisted and no-deposit mortgages.
- We chase so you don't have toWe keep lenders, valuers, solicitors and estate agents moving until completion.
- Protection that fitsSensible advice on life and income cover so your new home is safe.
Your first-time buyer checklist
Have these ready for your first call and we can move quickly:
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Last three months' payslips
- Last three months' bank statements
- Proof of deposit, including any gifted funds
- Details of loans, car finance or credit cards
The buying journey
What happens, and when
01
Work out your budget
A free call to understand your income, deposit and what feels affordable each month.
02
Agreement in principle
We get a lender's indication so you can make offers with confidence.
03
Offer accepted
We recommend the right deal, submit the application and arrange the valuation.
04
Exchange and complete
Your solicitor handles the legal work while we keep the lender on track. Then, keys.
Ways to get on the ladder
More routes in than you might think
5% deposit mortgages
Many lenders offer 95% mortgages for first-time buyers. We'll find those with the best overall cost, not just the lowest rate.
Family support
Gifted deposits, joint borrower sole proprietor and family-assisted mortgages can help parents give you a head start.
No-deposit options
Some lenders now offer 100% mortgages to eligible buyers. See if you qualify.
In their words
Read the reviews
Rated 5.0 by 186 clients
“What seemed impossible to us was just another day at the office for them.”
“They are responsive, proactive and really know their stuff.”
First-time buyer FAQs
Questions we hear every week
How much deposit do I need?
Usually at least 5% of the purchase price, although a bigger deposit can unlock lower rates. Some lenders offer 100% mortgages to eligible first-time buyers.
Will a poor credit score stop me?
Not necessarily. Lenders treat missed payments, defaults and CCJs differently. We know which ones are more flexible and can tell you honestly where you stand.
Do I pay stamp duty as a first-time buyer?
In England, first-time buyers pay no stamp duty on the first £300,000 of a home costing up to £500,000. Try our stamp duty calculator.
How long does it take?
From offer accepted to completion usually takes 8 to 12 weeks, depending on your chain, the lender and the solicitors involved.
Free, no-obligation advice
Let's find your mortgage, together
Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Mark. We'll tell you honestly what's possible and what it will cost.