For First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home feels overwhelming. You're not alone.

This guide explains what you need to know as a first-time buyer, from understanding your advantages and getting mortgage ready, to avoiding common mistakes and using the right support. Whether you're just starting to save or ready to search, you'll find practical advice to help you get on the property ladder with confidence.

Key takeaways

• First-time buyers have advantages: no property chain, access to schemes, and stamp duty relief.
• Get mortgage ready by checking your credit score, saving your deposit, and getting an agreement in principle.
• Research first-time buyer schemes like Help to Buy ISA, Lifetime ISA, and Shared Ownership.
• Your first home doesn't need to be perfect – focus on affordable and suitable for now.
• Avoid common mistakes like skipping the survey or overextending yourself financially.

Understanding the process

As a first-time buyer, everything is new. That's okay. Take it step by step.

You have advantages:

• No property chain
• Access to first-time buyer schemes
• Stamp duty land tax (SDLT) relief in England
• Higher LTV mortgage products

You face challenges:

• Smaller deposit (typically)
• Learning the process from scratch
• Understanding property jargon
• Navigating solicitors and surveys

Knowledge is power. Read everything. Ask questions. Take your time.

Getting mortgage ready

Start here.

Steps to take:

• Check your credit score and fix any issues
• Save for your deposit (aim for 5% of the property value, minimum)
• Get an agreement in principle from a lender
• Factor in all buying costs, not just the deposit

Speak to a mortgage broker. They'll explain your options and find the best deals.

Mortgage Types & Affordability

First-time buyer schemes

Several schemes help first-time buyers get on the ladder.

Research:

• Help to Buy ISA or Lifetime ISA
• Shared ownership schemes
• First Homes scheme (discounted properties, available in England)
• Family support mortgages

Rules and availability change. Check current options before deciding.

What to look for

Your first home doesn't need to be perfect. It needs to be affordable and suitable for now.

Think about:

• Location and commute
• Manageable mortgage payments
• Properties you can improve over time

Avoid overextending yourself financially. Leave room for repairs, furniture, and life.

Virify tip
Your first property doesn't have to be forever. Focus on what you can afford now and what meets your current needs.

Common first-time buyer mistakes

Learn from others who've been there.

Avoid:

• Falling in love with properties you can't afford
• Skipping the survey to save money
• Ignoring additional costs (property taxes, surveys, solicitors)
• Rushing decisions because of FOMO
• Not reading contracts properly

Stay disciplined. Your first property doesn't have to be forever.

Property Purchase Tax

Property Valuations & Surveys

Solicitors & Conveyancers

Using Virify as a first-time buyer

Virify is built to support you.

Features that help first-timers:

• Guides library with everything explained in plain English
• Transparent property data (no hidden surprises)
• Direct communication with sellers
• Neighbourhood insights to understand areas
• Ability to save and compare properties over time
• Private notes to track your thoughts

Optional verification shows sellers you're serious, even without experience.

Getting help

Don't do this alone.

Sources of support:

• Independent mortgage brokers for mortgages and money matters
• Conveyancing solicitors for legal questions
• Property surveyors for property condition and value
• Family and friends, especially those who've bought recently
• Virify's guides and resources

Ask for help when you need it. Everyone was a first-time buyer once.

Feeling ready? Use our complete buyer's guide to get started.

Guide for private buyers