First Time Buyer Mortgages

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone — but it can also feel overwhelming. From saving a deposit to navigating mortgage jargon, first-time buyers often don’t know where to start. At Mortgage Knight, we specialise in helping first time buyers secure the right mortgage, guiding you step by step through the process.

Halifax 1 Year Self Employed Mortgage

How Do First Time Buyer Mortgages Work?

A first time buyer mortgage is simply a mortgage for someone purchasing their first home. Many lenders offer special rates, incentives, or government-backed schemes to help new buyers get onto the property ladder.

Key things to know
First Time Buyer Mortgage Schemes

First Time Buyer Deposit

Most lenders require at least a 5% deposit. For example, if you’re buying a £200,000 home, you’ll need at least £10,000 saved. A 10%–15% deposit often gives you access to lower interest rates.

How Much Can I Borrow as a First Time Buyer?

Lenders usually lend 4.5x your annual income, though some stretch to 5x or more depending on your job, credit history, and deposit size. Working with a broker ensures you find the lenders most generous for your profile.

Case Studies

1) Emma – Buying Her First Flat

Profile: 27-year-old nurse, saved a 10% deposit.
Challenge: Unsure which lenders supported NHS staff with variable shifts and overtime.
Solution: We packaged her payslips showing consistent overtime and secured a competitive 90% LTV deal.
Outcome: Emma moved into her first home with confidence.

2) Liam & Chloe – Using Help from Parents

Profile: Couple in their 20s, small deposit, wanted to buy a house.
Challenge: Struggled with affordability based on their salaries alone.
Solution: We arranged a Joint Borrower, Sole Proprietor mortgage, adding Chloe’s dad to boost borrowing power.
Outcome: Mortgage approved; they own the house while her dad isn’t on the deeds.

3) Sofia – Shared Ownership Buyer

Profile: 30-year-old teacher buying in London.
Challenge: High property prices made buying outright difficult.
Solution: We helped her access a Shared Ownership scheme, purchasing a 40% share with a 5% deposit.
Outcome: Sofia is now a homeowner in a sought-after area she couldn’t otherwise afford.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most lenders require a minimum 5% deposit, though higher deposits give better rates.

Yes, but your borrowing will depend on your income multiple. A broker can help maximise what you can borrow.

No Stamp Duty is payable on homes up to £425,000 for first time buyers.

Yes, through guarantor or joint borrower mortgages. They can boost affordability without owning the property.

If packaged well, an application can be approved within a week. Complex cases can take 2–3 weeks.

Ready to buy your first home?

At Mortgage Knight, we make the process simple, stress-free, and successful. From deposits to approval, we’ll guide you every step of the way.