Homeowner Mortgages for First-Time Buyers and Home Movers
Whether you are buying your first home or moving to the next one, we help you understand what you can borrow, find a mortgage that suits you and steer your purchase through to completion.
Clear Guidance From Your First Question
For most first-time buyers, the hardest part is knowing where to start. How much can you borrow? How big a deposit do you need? What does a lender actually look at?
We begin with a free conversation about your income, outgoings, savings and credit history, then give you a realistic picture of your budget. Most lenders base what they will lend on a multiple of income, adjusted for your monthly commitments, so two people on the same salary can receive very different offers. Knowing which lenders are likely to be most generous for your circumstances can make a real difference to the homes you can consider.
We will also explain your deposit options. Many lenders offer mortgages at 90% or 95% of the property value, and some first-time buyer products allow family members to help through gifted deposits, savings-backed arrangements or joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages. [CHECK AND INSERT ANY CURRENT GOVERNMENT-BACKED SCHEMES AT TIME OF PUBLISHING.]
Once you are ready, we arrange an agreement in principle so you can make offers with confidence, and estate agents know you are a serious buyer.
Making Your Next Move Work Financially
Moving home brings its own decisions. Can you take your existing mortgage with you? Would you be better off redeeming it and starting afresh? How will an early repayment charge affect the numbers?
Porting your current mortgage can sometimes avoid an early repayment charge, but it is not automatic. Your lender will reassess you, and any extra borrowing may come at a different rate. In some cases, paying the charge and moving to a new lender works out cheaper overall. We compare both routes side by side so you can see the full cost before you decide.
We can also help if you need to buy before you sell, are downsizing, or want to borrow more to extend or improve your new home. If timing is tight between sale and purchase, we can talk you through short-term options such as bridging finance.
Fixed, Tracker or Something Else?
The right product depends on your plans and how much certainty you want over your payments.
Fixed Rate Mortgages
Tracker Mortgages
Offset Mortgages
We also look at arrangement fees, cashback, overpayment allowances and whether the deal can move with you if you sell. A low rate with a high fee is not always the best value, particularly on a smaller loan.
From Agreement in Principle to Collecting the Keys
Once you have chosen your mortgage, we manage the application, package your documents, and keep in contact with the lender, valuer, solicitor and estate agent until completion. You will have one adviser throughout, available online or by phone, who keeps you informed at every stage.
Buying a home is also the right moment to think about protection. We can advise on life insurance, critical illness cover, income protection and buildings and contents insurance, so your new home stays secure whatever happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deposit do I need?
Most lenders require at least 5% of the purchase price, although a larger deposit usually gives access to lower rates. We can show you how rates change at different deposit levels.
Will a broker get me a better deal than my bank?
Not always, but we will compare your bank’s products with the wider market and tell you honestly which is better. If your bank is the best option, we will say so.
How long does it take?
An agreement in principle can often be issued within a day. A full mortgage offer typically follows within two to four weeks, depending on the lender and valuation.
Explore more of what we offer
Interest Only Mortgages
Self-Employed Mortgages
Buy to Let Mortgages
Working With Us Remotely
Free initial consultation
A short call or video meeting to understand what you want to achieve and what your finances look like.
Online meetings
Talk to your adviser by video or phone at a time that suits you, including [EVENINGS / WEEKENDS, CONFIRM].
Secure document upload
Send payslips, bank statements and accounts through our encrypted portal the moment you have them.
Electronic ID verification
Confirm your identity online in minutes.
E-signatures
Sign your paperwork digitally, from your phone if you like.