Looking for your first home can feel like a big step, but you’re not alone. We take care of the paperwork, liaise with lenders and handle the admin behind the scenes, so you can enjoy a stress-free mortgage process. We are on hand help you with the offer process, we can also support you with the estate agents and solicitors. Our expert advisors have helped many 1000s of first time buyers achieve their dreams of home ownership, get in touch with us using the link below or call us today see how we can help you.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
Most first-time buyers need a minimum deposit of 5% of the property price. For example, on a £200,000 home, that’s £10,000.
However, there are 100% mortgage options available, meaning no deposit is required. These are usually guarantor or family-supported mortgages, where a parent or close family member helps by offering savings or property as security. The upside: you buy sooner. The trade-off: tighter criteria and fewer lenders.
If you can put down a larger deposit (10–15% or more), you’ll usually benefit from better interest rates and lower monthly repayments, so it can save serious money over time.
There are also first-time buyer schemes such as shared ownership and family assist products that can reduce the deposit needed.
A broker can help you work out which option fits your situation best — and whether buying now or waiting makes the most financial sense.
For most first-time buyers, using a mortgage broker is usually the better option.
A mortgage broker searches the market for you, comparing multiple lenders and mortgage deals rather than just one bank’s products. This means you’re more likely to access better interest rates, lower monthly payments, and first-time buyer–friendly criteria.
Why first-time buyers benefit from a mortgage broker:
Going directly to a bank limits you to their own mortgage products only. Even if you already bank with them, it doesn’t guarantee the best deal or the highest chance of approval.
Several factors can prevent a mortgage from being approved, especially for first-time buyers. The most common issues are:
Affordability issues
If your income doesn’t comfortably support the mortgage payments after bills and living costs, a lender may decline the application. This can include high credit commitments, childcare costs, or variable income.
Poor or limited credit history
Missed payments, defaults, CCJs, or a very thin credit file can all raise red flags. Even small issues can matter, depending on how recent they are.
High levels of debt
Outstanding loans, credit cards, car finance, or buy-now-pay-later agreements can reduce how much you’re allowed to borrow.
Employment or income problems
Being newly self-employed, in a probation period, or having inconsistent income can make approval harder without the right lender.
Property issues
If the property is valued lower than the purchase price, is non-standard construction, or fails the lender’s criteria, the mortgage may be declined even if your finances are strong.
Deposit source problems
Lenders must verify where your deposit comes from. Unexplained cash, undocumented gifts, or overseas funds can cause delays or refusals.
Multiple credit applications
Applying for lots of credit or mortgages in a short time can harm your credit score and make lenders nervous.
Why a broker helps
A mortgage broker assesses these risks before you apply, matches you with the right lender, and fixes problems early—greatly improving your chances of approval.
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)
Many first-time buyers pay no stamp duty due to first-time buyer relief, depending on the purchase price. If payable, this will be confirmed early on.
Moving costs
Removal companies, storage, and initial setup costs can add several hundred pounds.
Bottom line for first-time buyers
Fees can add up, but most are known upfront and manageable with the right planning. A mortgage broker helps you understand exactly what you’ll pay, avoid surprises, and budget confidently from day one.
Yes — many first-time buyers successfully get a mortgage on a single income.
Lenders focus on affordability, not whether you’re buying alone. This means they’ll assess:
Most lenders will typically offer between 4 and 4.5 times your annual income, and in some cases more, depending on your circumstances and the lender’s criteria.
What helps when buying on one income:
There are also first-time buyer schemes and lender options designed to support single applicants, and some lenders are more flexible than others.
Not all lenders assess single-income applications the same way. A mortgage broker can match you with lenders who are more supportive of single applicants, helping you borrow the maximum you can afford — safely.
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