Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
First time buyers
Buying your first home, made clear
Getting onto the property ladder is a big step. We explain every stage in plain English, help you understand what you could borrow and find a mortgage that suits you, from the first call to the day you get the keys.
- Agreements in principle
- Deposit and gifted deposit guidance
- Every stage explained
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Overview
We take the stress out of your first purchase
Buying your first home can feel like learning a new language. Agreements in principle, loan to value, conveyancing, searches and surveys all arrive at once, usually while you are trying to keep a seller and an estate agent happy. We take that weight off your shoulders.
We start by getting to know you: your income, your deposit, your plans and how much you are comfortable paying each month. From there we compare suitable options from our panel of lenders and explain why we are recommending a particular mortgage, so you can decide with confidence.
Once you have found the right property we manage the application, stay in touch with the lender, your solicitor and the estate agent, and keep you updated so you always know where things stand.
How we can help
Support that fits your situation
Agreement in principle
Know roughly what you could borrow before you start viewing, so your offer is taken seriously.
Deposit options
We explain options such as gifted deposits from family and the evidence lenders usually ask for.
Schemes and incentives
Where relevant we explain options such as shared ownership and lender incentives aimed at first time buyers.
Budgeting for costs
Stamp duty, legal fees, surveys and moving costs are all factored in, so there are no surprises.
Joint applications
Buying with a partner, friend or family member? We explain how joint mortgages work and what lenders consider.
Protecting your new home
Once your mortgage is arranged we can review life cover and income protection, so your home is protected.
What lenders look at
The things that matter most
Every lender has its own criteria. These are some of the areas they are likely to consider, and we help you prepare for each one.
- Your income and how it is paid
- The size of your deposit and where it comes from
- Your credit history
- Your regular outgoings and commitments
- The property itself and its valuation
- Any other borrowing you have
How it works
Simple, from start to finish
A free first chat
Tell us what you are planning and we will explain your options. There is no charge and no obligation.
We find the right fit
We compare suitable mortgages from our panel of lenders and explain our recommendation clearly.
We handle the application
We package your application, deal with the lender and keep you updated at every stage.
Through to completion
We liaise with your solicitor and estate agent until the money is released, and we are here afterwards too.
Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
How much deposit do I need?
Many lenders look for a deposit of at least 5% of the purchase price, although a larger deposit can open up a wider choice of mortgages and potentially lower rates. Every lender has its own criteria, so we will look at what is realistic for you.
What is an agreement in principle?
An agreement in principle, sometimes called a decision in principle, is an indication from a lender of how much it may be willing to lend based on the information provided, usually with a credit check. It is not a guaranteed mortgage offer, but it shows estate agents and sellers that you are in a position to proceed.
Do first time buyers pay stamp duty?
In England and Northern Ireland, first time buyers currently pay no Stamp Duty Land Tax on the first £300,000 of a purchase priced up to £500,000. Different rules apply in Scotland and Wales. Our stamp duty calculator shows the figures for your purchase.
How long does buying a home take?
Every purchase is different. Once an offer is accepted the process often takes a number of weeks to a few months, depending on the lender, the property chain and the legal work. We keep things moving and keep you updated throughout.
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Free initial consultation
Ready to talk it through?
Your first consultation is free and there is no obligation. Speak to Charlotte and the team by phone or online, at a time that suits you.