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First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home? We will guide you through every step of the way.

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Team at CMA

Mortgages, made simple.

First-Time Buyer Mortgages

Start your home-buying journey here

As specialists in first-time buyer mortgages, we will explain how things work in plain English, talk through your options, and guide you step by step. You do not need to have everything figured out before speaking to us.

Mortgage jargon can feel confusing

When you start looking at mortgages, it can feel like a whole new language: repayment mortgage, fixed rate, standard variable rate and more. Not to mention the property-buying process itself. You do not have to figure it all out alone. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Your First-Time Buyer Journey

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Affordability & Rate Finder

We’ll help you understand how much you can borrow

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Mortgage in Principle

Get a decision in principle to strengthen your offer

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Find Your Property

Start your search with confidence

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Get Your Documents Ready

ID, proof of address, bank statements, and payslips

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Full Mortgage Application

We handle all the paperwork and liaise with lenders

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Completion

Get your keys and move into your first home!

First-Time Buyer Schemes

Help to Buy – Wales

Government equity loan schemes for new build properties

Shared Ownership

Buy a share of a property and pay rent on the rest

95% LTV Mortgages

Mortgages available with just a 5% deposit

First Homes Scheme

Discounted properties for first-time buyers

Our advice is always free, so there’s no better place to start your home-buying journey than right here.

Explore Government Schemes in Detail

Learn more about current UK first-time buyer schemes, including the First Homes Scheme, Shared Ownership, Lifetime ISA, Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, and Stamp Duty relief.

First-Time Buyer FAQs

What mortgage options are available for first-time buyers in the UK?

First-time buyers can choose between fixed-rate, tracker, and variable-rate mortgages. Many lenders also offer higher loan-to-value options, meaning you may be able to buy with a smaller deposit, subject to affordability, credit history, and lender criteria.

Can first-time buyers get a mortgage with a 5% deposit?

Yes. Many lenders now offer 95% loan-to-value mortgages, allowing you to buy with just a 5% deposit. Eligibility depends on your income, credit profile, property type and affordability check.

Is the Help to Buy scheme still available?

The Help to Buy equity loan scheme is now closed to new applications. However, shared ownership and other affordable housing schemes are still available through housing associations and may help you get on the property ladder.

How much can a first-time buyer borrow?

Most lenders consider lending up to 4–4.5 times your household income. The exact amount depends on your outgoings, credit commitments, and affordability assessment. There is a range of schemes aimed at helping first-time buyers by offering enhanced income multiples (normally subject to minimum income requirements). We can look at these for you. It’s important to remember it’s not only how much you can borrow but, more importantly, how much you can afford to pay back.

Do first-time buyers pay Stamp Duty?

Many first-time buyers may benefit from stamp duty relief, depending on the purchase price and current government thresholds. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate stamp duty costs on qualifying properties. You can check your potential costs using our stamp duty calculator.

Should first-time buyers use a mortgage broker?

Using a mortgage broker can make the process much easier. A broker can assess your situation, explain lender criteria without jargon, and search a wide range of lenders for suitable deals, helping you feel confident at every step. Advice should always be tailored to your individual circumstances.

Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Ready to Buy Your First Home?

We will discuss your options and get you ready to apply.