First-time buyers
Your first mortgage, explained clearly.
Buying your first home involves a lot of new words and a lot of paperwork. We take you through it one step at a time, explain what lenders will look at, and handle the mortgage side so you can get on with everything else.
Who this is for
- You are buying a home for the first time
- You are buying alone, with a partner, or with a family member
- You are saving a deposit and want to know where you stand
- You are receiving help from family towards the deposit
- You have an offer accepted and need a mortgage arranged quickly
How we help.
Understanding what you can borrow
We look at your income, your outgoings and your deposit, then explain what lenders are likely to consider. You get a realistic picture before you start viewing.
Agreement in principle
An agreement in principle (AIP, sometimes called a decision in principle or DIP) is an early indication from a lender of what they may lend. Estate agents often ask for one before they take an offer seriously. We arrange it for you.
Comparing the market
We compare lenders across the market and explain the options that fit your circumstances, including the difference between the interest rate and the overall cost of the deal.
The application and beyond
We prepare the application, gather your documents and stay in touch with the lender. If the surveyor or solicitor raises a question, we help keep things moving.
Worth knowing
before you start.
- Your deposit and where it is coming from — lenders will ask.
- Loan to value (LTV) is the size of the mortgage compared with the value of the property. A larger deposit usually opens up more options.
- Payslips, bank statements and identification are normally needed. We tell you exactly what to gather.
- Budget for costs beyond the deposit, such as legal fees, searches and any stamp duty that applies to you.
Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured against it.
What happens next
Start with a conversation.
Tell us what you are planning. We will explain the options, tell you what we need, and aim to come back to you the same day.
Common questions
It depends on the lender and the property. The larger your deposit, the more options are usually available. We will look at your savings and explain what is realistic for your situation.
It is an early indication from a lender of what they might be prepared to lend, based on information you provide. It is not a formal mortgage offer, but it shows sellers and agents that you are in a position to buy.
Many lenders accept gifted deposits from close family. They will usually ask for written confirmation that it is a gift rather than a loan. We will explain what your lender needs.
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Let's talk about
your mortgage.
Tell us what you're planning. We'll explain what happens next and aim to come back to you the same day.
Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured against it.