The complete guide to getting a mortgage as a first-time buyer

Buying your first home is a major milestone—but the mortgage process can feel complicated when you’re not sure what comes next. This guide explains the key stages in clear, straightforward terms, so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises.

For quick answers, see our First Time Buyer FAQ.
For what lenders assess, see First Time Buyer Eligibility.

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First Time Buyers Guide

Am I eligible for a mortgage?

For most first-time buyers, the starting point is simple: it may be possible, but eligibility depends on several factors that lenders use to assess whether you can afford the repayments.

Common things that influence eligibility include:

How much you want to borrow
Your deposit
Your income and employment status
Your monthly outgoings and existing debts
Your credit history
Your age and the mortgage term you’re seeking
Whether you’re buying alone or with someone else
The type and value of the property

A useful approach is to estimate affordability before you start viewing seriously. That helps you focus on homes that fit your budget and reduces the risk of disappointment later in the process.

Estimate your budget in two layers

A useful approach is to estimate your budget in two layers:

What you may be offered based on affordability calculations.
What you’re comfortable paying each month, including the realistic impact of interest rate changes (especially if you’re considering a variable or tracker option).

How your circumstances can affect eligibility

Even if you’re a first-time buyer, lenders will still consider a range of factors that can affect what’s available to you.

Common influences include:

Credit history: some lenders may be more flexible than others, but credit issues can reduce options.
Existing debts and commitments: these can impact affordability calculations.
Market conditions: lenders may adjust criteria in response to wider economic changes.

The best approach is to ensure your application information is accurate and complete, because inconsistencies can delay decisions.

What is a first-time buyer mortgage?

A first-time buyer mortgage works in the same fundamental way as other residential mortgages:

You buy a property.
You pay a deposit.
The lender provides the mortgage for the remaining amount.
You repay the loan over an agreed term, usually with monthly payments.

What can make first-time buyer mortgages different is that lenders may offer:

Higher LTV options (so you can borrow a larger percentage of the property value)
Product features that suit new buyers
Access to certain government-backed support (where eligibility rules are met)

How mortgages work

A mortgage is a loan you take out to buy a property. The lender provides the money, and the property is used as security for the loan.

Mortgage term and repayment structure

Most mortgages are offered over a term that can run for many years (often up to around 40 years for standard repayment mortgages). The term affects your monthly payments and the total interest you pay.

With a repayment mortgage, your monthly payment covers both:

interest on the amount borrowed, and
part of the loan (capital)

With an interest-only mortgage, your monthly payment covers only the interest, with the capital repaid later (typically using a separate plan). Some mortgages are structured as a mix of repayment and interest-only.

Capital and interest

The amount you borrow is the capital sum.
The lender charges interest on that amount.
Your monthly payment is calculated based on the interest rate, the term, and the repayment type.

Are you a first-time buyer? (and why definitions matter)

In the UK, a first-time buyer is generally someone who is buying a home with a mortgage and has not previously owned a property (or, in some cases, has only owned in limited circumstances). The exact definition can vary slightly depending on the lender and any government-backed scheme involved.

In broad terms, you’re usually treated as a first-time buyer if you haven’t previously owned a property. However, the exact definition can vary depending on the scheme or benefit you’re trying to use.

If you’re buying with someone else, both parties may need to meet the relevant definition for certain support.

Because rules can be specific, it’s worth understanding how your circumstances are treated before assuming you qualify for a particular scheme.

A quick guide to the first mortgage process

Buying with a mortgage for the first time often follows a familiar sequence. While timelines and details vary by case, most first-time buyers go through steps like these:

Saving for a deposit (and understanding what deposit level can mean for your options)
Affordability checks to understand what you can realistically repay
An agreement in principle (AIP) or similar early indication of borrowing capacity
Considering schemes that may help with deposit size or purchase structure
Finding a property and making an offer
Submitting a full mortgage application with evidence of income, spending and identity
Valuation and underwriting by the lender
Completion once all legal and mortgage conditions are satisfied

Throughout the process, your income type, credit history, existing commitments, and the property you’re buying can all influence what lenders may be willing to offer.

1) Start with the deposit (and understand LTV)

For many first-time buyers, the deposit is the biggest factor you can control. It affects the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio—how much you’re borrowing compared to the property price.

What is LTV?

LTV = mortgage amount ÷ property value

In general terms:

Higher LTV (smaller deposit) can mean fewer options and may increase the cost of borrowing.
Lower LTV (larger deposit) often improves the range of deals available.

Even if you’re focused on monthly payments, LTV can influence both the mortgage terms and the overall cost.

Lenders typically consider the deposit alongside the property value to determine loan-to-value (LTV). LTV is a key factor because it influences risk and the mortgage options available.

Where can your deposit come from?

Your deposit may come from a combination of:

savings
gifts from family (where accepted)
government-backed support (where eligible)

Lenders typically need to understand the source of funds and that the money is available when required.

Many first-time buyers receive help from family. Lenders may require evidence of the source of funds and how the gift is structured.

It’s also worth noting that “help” can take different forms, such as:

A gift (no repayment expected)
A loan between family members
Other arrangements that may need additional documentation

Build your deposit consistently

Saving is often a longer-term project than people expect. Practical approaches include:

setting up regular transfers into a dedicated savings account
reducing spending that doesn’t support your goal
tracking progress monthly so you can adjust if needed

Ways to build your deposit

There are several practical approaches first-time buyers use to grow their deposit:

Set a clear target and work backwards from the property price you’re aiming for
Use a dedicated savings account so the money is easier to track
Automate monthly transfers to reduce the temptation to spend
Review spending regularly and cut back on non-essential costs
Consider additional income where realistic

If you’re eligible for government-backed schemes, they can make saving more achievable. Checking what’s available at the time you apply is important, as rules and availability can change.

If you don’t have a deposit

A 0% deposit mortgage is uncommon and usually comes with stricter requirements. If you’re in this position, it’s important to explore alternative routes (for example, options that involve a guarantor, shared ownership, or other structured arrangements) and understand how they affect the overall cost and risk.

2) How lenders assess affordability

A mortgage isn’t approved based on income alone. Lenders carry out affordability checks to understand whether you can make repayments reliably.

Mortgage lenders aren’t only interested in whether you can make payments today—they also need to be confident you can manage repayments if circumstances change.

What affordability checks usually consider

Most lenders look at:

your income (and whether it appears stable)
your regular outgoings (including existing credit commitments)
essential living costs
any other financial commitments
the mortgage payment you’re applying for

Because affordability is assessed in detail, two people with similar incomes can receive different outcomes depending on their overall financial picture.

Your spending and existing commitments matter because they affect affordability.

Lenders commonly look at:

credit card balances and other revolving credit
loan repayments (car finance, personal loans, etc.)
regular household bills and commitments
any dependants or additional financial responsibilities

In practice, this means you may be asked for bank statements so the lender can understand your day-to-day financial position.

Income types: what may be counted

Different income sources can be treated differently. Common examples include:

PAYE salary: often assessed as straightforward, subject to lender rules
Overtime and regular commission: may be considered if consistent and evidenced
Bonuses: may be used depending on how frequently they’re paid and how predictable they are
Allowances: sometimes included where they can be evidenced
Self-employed income: usually requires more supporting documentation and a longer record
Zero-hour and fixed-term contracts: may be considered, but lenders often apply specific requirements

Income multiples: a useful guide, not a guarantee

You may hear figures such as “4 to 4.5 times income” for typical cases, but lenders don’t use a single rule for everyone. Your deposit, outgoings, employment situation, and the exact mortgage you’re applying for can all affect the result.

In practice, lenders don’t rely on a single number—they look at your full circumstances, including expenses and credit behaviour.

Stress testing

Many lenders apply a form of stress testing, meaning they check affordability under less favourable conditions than the initial rate you may be offered. This helps ensure repayments could still be manageable if rates rise.

Most lenders apply affordability checks that test whether you could still afford repayments under less favourable conditions. This might include scenarios such as:

interest rates being higher than expected
job changes or reduced income
unexpected life events

If you’re applying with a partner, lenders will consider both applicants’ finances.

As a result, two borrowers with similar incomes can receive different outcomes depending on their outgoings, deposit size, and credit profile.

How interest rates affect repayments

Interest rates are one of the biggest drivers of monthly mortgage costs. Even if you borrow the same amount, different rates can change what you pay each month.

It’s also worth noting that the mortgage type you choose can affect how sensitive your repayments are to changes in interest rates.

3) Choose the right mortgage type for your situation

Mortgage products differ in how the interest rate works and how predictable your payments are.

Fixed-rate mortgages

A fixed rate keeps the interest rate the same for an agreed period (commonly 2, 3, or 5 years). This can help you budget if you want payment stability.

Tracker mortgages

A tracker mortgage follows a reference rate (often a base rate index) plus a margin. Payments can move up or down as the reference rate changes.

If the reference rate changes, your mortgage rate may move too.

Standard Variable Rate (SVR)

An SVR is the lender’s default rate, which can change over time. Many borrowers aim to avoid staying on an SVR longer than necessary.

Discounted mortgages

A discount is set against the lender’s SVR for a defined period. The discount reduces the rate temporarily, but the SVR can still change.

If the lender’s standard variable rate changes, your repayments may change as well.

Repayment vs interest-only

Repayment mortgages: your monthly payment covers interest and reduces the balance over time.
Interest-only mortgages: your monthly payment typically covers interest only, with the capital due at the end of the term.

With an interest-only mortgage, monthly payments typically cover only the interest. The capital is not repaid through monthly payments, so you need a separate plan to repay the loan at the end of the term.

This structure can carry additional risk if the repayment plan doesn’t work as expected.

Interest-only lending is often more restricted and requires a credible plan for repaying the capital.

Offset mortgages (where available)

Offset mortgages (where available): savings can be used to offset interest calculations, potentially reducing the interest charged on the mortgage.

Each option has trade-offs. A fixed rate can offer stability, while a variable rate may suit borrowers who are comfortable with payment changes.

Thinking beyond the headline rate

When comparing mortgages, it’s worth looking at the total picture:

the interest rate and how long it lasts
any product fees
early repayment rules (including overpayments)
how the mortgage may behave once the initial period ends
Whether the mortgage is portable (if you plan to move later)

4) Budget for the full cost of buying

A common first-time buyer mistake is focusing only on the deposit and mortgage payment. There are usually additional costs to plan for.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)

SDLT depends on the purchase price and whether you qualify as a first-time buyer. The rules can change, so it’s important to check the current position for your circumstances.

Because stamp duty is property- and price-dependent, it’s important to confirm the likely position with your solicitor or conveyancer.

For official guidance, see: https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax

Legal fees (conveyancing)

You’ll typically pay a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle searches, contract review, and the legal transfer of the property.

Survey and valuation

The lender will carry out a valuation for their own purposes. Many buyers also commission a survey to understand the property’s condition and identify potential issues.

Common survey types include:

Homebuyer reports (often more focused, with a clear summary of key issues)
Full structural surveys (more detailed, typically suited to older or higher-risk properties)

Mortgage fees

Some mortgages include arrangement fees; others may be fee-free but could have different pricing. The “best” option depends on the total cost over the period you expect to keep the mortgage.

Ongoing costs

You should also consider:

buildings insurance (often required from exchange)
moving costs
initial maintenance and furnishing

Also plan for other costs that can affect affordability and budgeting, such as:

solicitor and conveyancing fees
survey costs (if you choose to get one)
moving costs
potential early repayment charges if you change deals soon after completion

5) The mortgage process, step by step

Knowing the order of events can make the process feel more manageable.

Some first-time buyers start by viewing properties and only then begin the mortgage process. In practice, it can be helpful to understand your likely borrowing position early—particularly if you want to move quickly when you find a suitable home.

A sensible approach is to treat mortgage planning and property search as linked stages:

Establish a realistic borrowing range
Identify mortgage options that fit your situation
Then focus on properties that match both your budget and the lender’s requirements

Step 1: Decision in Principle (DIP)

A DIP is an initial indication that you may be able to borrow, based on the information you provide. It’s not the same as a full mortgage offer, but it helps you understand what’s possible before you commit to a property.

It can make your offer more credible to estate agents, gives you a clearer sense of your borrowing range, and can reduce uncertainty while you search.

DIP offers are time-limited, and the validity period can vary by lender. It’s important to treat it as a guide rather than a final decision.

Step 2: Find a property and make an offer

Once you have a DIP, you can move forward with viewings and offers. After your offer is accepted, the legal process and mortgage application typically progress alongside each other.

Build a shortlist based on priorities

Consider:

Location (commute, schools, transport links, local amenities)
Property type (flat, terraced, semi-detached, detached)
Condition and maintenance (move-in ready vs. potential work)
Space and layout (bedrooms, storage, whether it suits your lifestyle)
Future plans (work from home needs, family plans, ability to adapt)

Don’t ignore the practical details

Even if a property is within budget, it’s worth thinking about:

Service charges (particularly for flats and some leasehold properties)
Parking and access
Energy efficiency and potential running costs
Neighbourhood factors that may affect your day-to-day life

A good approach is to view properties with a checklist and take notes immediately after each viewing.

View properties and compare them properly

Try to view enough properties to make meaningful comparisons. During viewings, look beyond appearance and consider practical points:

Condition of key areas (roof, windows, heating, damp signs)
How the property is maintained and whether any issues are obvious
Natural light, storage and how the layout works day-to-day
Noise levels and general neighbourhood feel

If you’re unsure what to look for, it can help to take notes for each property so you can compare later when you’re deciding.

Leasehold properties can involve additional considerations, such as service charges and ground rent. It’s also worth ensuring you understand what you’re buying and any ongoing responsibilities.

Be realistic about location and what your budget can stretch to

Property prices vary significantly across the UK. If you’re trying to buy in an area where prices feel out of reach, it may be worth widening your search or adjusting your expectations.

Consider:

Commuting patterns: travel time and transport links can influence what you can afford.
Neighbourhood growth: areas with improving infrastructure can sometimes offer better value.
Future plans: planned developments can affect desirability and long-term value.

A practical strategy is to define a “must-have” list (for example, schools, transport access, or property type) and then explore what’s achievable within your budget.

Step 3: Full mortgage application

A full application involves more detailed information and evidence, such as:

proof of identity
proof of income
details of your deposit
information about your outgoings

You may be asked to provide additional information or clarify aspects of your circumstances. Responding quickly and accurately can help keep things moving.

What documents do I need to submit for a mortgage application?

Mortgage applications require evidence of identity and financial circumstances. The exact list can vary by lender, but the categories below are typical.

Proof of identity

You’ll usually need documents that confirm who you are, such as:

passport or driving licence
council tax bill
utility bills (often excluding mobile phone bills)

Proof of income (employed)

If you’re employed, lenders commonly request:

recent payslips
P60
evidence of any regular bonuses or commission (where applicable)

Proof of income (self-employed)

If you’re self-employed, lenders often require:

certified accounts (often for more than one year)
evidence of earnings from HMRC (where relevant)
details of contracts or trading history for contractors

Bank statements and financial evidence

Most applications also require bank statements so lenders can review:

income deposits
regular spending patterns
existing debts and commitments

Why preparation matters

Having documents ready (and consistent) can reduce delays. It also helps ensure the information you provide matches what lenders will see during their checks.

Step 4: Valuation and mortgage offer

The lender will arrange a valuation. If the property meets the lender’s requirements and the application is satisfactory, you’ll receive a formal mortgage offer.

Step 5: Exchange of contracts

Exchange is the point where both parties become legally committed. Your solicitor coordinates the deposit payment and ensures key conditions are in place (including insurance).

Step 6: Completion and keys

Completion is when the remaining funds are transferred and ownership passes. You receive the keys once the transaction is complete.

It’s common for timelines to be affected by factors outside the mortgage itself, such as property searches, valuations, and legal work.

Timing note: the overall process can vary. Delays can happen due to valuation issues, legal searches, or the seller’s position.

6) First-time buyer support schemes (where eligible)

Depending on your circumstances, certain schemes may help with deposit requirements or affordability.

Help schemes can change over time, and availability may depend on the property type and the developer or housing provider involved. The key is to understand what each option is designed to do and whether it fits your circumstances.

If you’re using a government-backed help scheme, the rules can differ from a standard deposit arrangement. The key point is that the lender will still assess affordability and eligibility, but the way the deposit/support is treated may vary.

Shared Ownership

Shared Ownership allows you to buy a share of a property and pay rent on the remaining share. Over time, you may be able to increase your share.

For official guidance, see: https://www.gov.uk/affordable-home-ownership-schemes/shared-ownership-scheme

Lifetime ISA (LISA)

A Lifetime ISA can provide a government bonus on eligible savings, which may be used towards a first home purchase (subject to scheme rules).

For many first-time buyers, the Lifetime ISA remains a popular deposit-saving route. It can be used towards buying your first home, subject to the scheme’s rules.

You can pay in up to £4,000 per tax year
If you use it to buy a qualifying home, the government adds a 25% bonus to your contributions

Right to Buy

If you’re a qualifying tenant of a council or housing association, you may be able to purchase your home at a discount.

Help to Buy equity loan (where applicable)

An equity loan can reduce the deposit required by adding an additional loan component alongside your mortgage. This can help you reach a lower LTV and access products that might otherwise be out of reach.

Note: scheme availability and rules can change. Always check the latest guidance before relying on a scheme.

Guarantor options (in some cases)

Where a lender is concerned about deposit or affordability, a guarantor arrangement may be considered. This is not a universal solution and depends on lender criteria and the overall application.

Guarantor mortgages are another route that can help certain borrowers where affordability is tight. They generally involve additional complexity and requirements, so it’s worth understanding the full impact before proceeding.

Mortgage Guarantee Scheme (deposit support)

The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is designed to encourage lenders to offer mortgages with smaller deposits for eligible borrowers.

Eligibility and the exact structure of the mortgage can vary, so it’s important to check the current scheme rules and whether the property type and purchase price fall within the scheme parameters.

For official guidance, see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-mortgage-guarantee-scheme

First Homes

The First Homes Scheme can offer eligible buyers a discount on the market value of certain homes (often new builds), subject to local price and income limits and other conditions.

For official guidance, see: https://www.gov.uk/first-homes-scheme

Deposit support and developer-led schemes

Some developer-led schemes may offer deposit support on selected new-build properties. The details can vary, so it’s important to check how the scheme works for the specific development you’re considering.

Deposit Unlock: aimed at helping some first-time buyers access new-build purchases with a smaller deposit, where certain conditions are met.
Help to Build: relevant if you’re building a home rather than buying an existing one.

Joint mortgages and guarantor mortgages

If you’re struggling to meet affordability or deposit requirements on your own, there are alternative structures that may help.

Joint mortgages

A joint mortgage is where more than one person applies to borrow. This can be useful when:

you and a partner (or another eligible buyer) have combined income
you can increase the deposit through shared savings

Joint ownership can be set up in different ways, and it’s important to understand how ownership shares and responsibilities work.

Joint Borrower, Sole Proprietor (JBSP) and similar approaches

Some borrowers may explore structures where an additional person helps support affordability, without necessarily being added to the title in the same way as a standard joint mortgage.

These arrangements can be useful in certain family circumstances, but they can also come with specific requirements—so it’s important to understand the implications for both affordability and the legal set-up.

Guarantor mortgages

A guarantor mortgage involves a third party who agrees to cover payments if the borrower can’t. This can help some buyers access mortgage borrowing, but it also creates significant responsibilities for the guarantor.

First-time buyer vs buy-to-let: not the same

Some people consider buying an investment property before purchasing a home to live in. While it can be possible, buy-to-let lending is typically assessed differently.

It often focuses on rental income potential and landlord affordability rules, and it may affect how stamp duty relief rules apply depending on the circumstances.

DIY mortgage search or using a mortgage broker?

First-time buyers often wonder whether to research mortgages themselves or use a broker. Both routes exist, but they work differently.

Researching yourself

This can be useful if your circumstances are straightforward and you’re comfortable comparing products based on what’s available directly from lenders.

Using a mortgage broker

A broker can help you compare options across the market and focus on products that align with your circumstances. For first-time buyers, this can be particularly valuable because the process involves more than just choosing a mortgage rate.

Common benefits include:

Wider product search rather than looking at one lender’s range
Support through the paperwork and timelines involved in applications
Help interpreting how mortgage features may affect your repayments

Questions to ask when you’re comparing mortgages

If you’re speaking with a mortgage adviser or reviewing mortgage offers, consider asking:

What repayment type suits my situation best?
How will my repayments change over time?
What fees apply, and how do they affect the overall cost?
What risks should I consider if my circumstances change?
Are there any product features that could help me later (for example, flexibility around payments)?

Common pitfalls for first-time buyers

Applying without a clear affordability picture

If you only estimate repayments, you may miss costs that affect your budget.

Ignoring credit file timing

Making changes close to application can sometimes create uncertainty. It’s usually better to review and prepare ahead of time.

Underestimating total purchase costs

The deposit is only part of the picture—surveys, legal work, and other fees can add up.

Choosing a mortgage product without understanding the “what next”

If you’re on a fixed rate, it’s worth understanding what happens when the fixed period ends.

7) Prepare your finances before you apply

A mortgage application is often decided on the details. Small improvements before you apply can help your application look stronger.

Check your credit file

Look for inaccuracies and make sure your details are correct. If you spot errors, addressing them early can prevent delays.

Before you apply, it’s worth focusing on the basics:

Pay down small debts where possible
Make sure you’re not missing payments
Check you’re registered on the electoral roll
Avoid taking on new credit shortly before applying

If you’re unsure how your credit history will be viewed, it’s often helpful to review it early so you can plan your next steps.

Credit reference agencies

In the UK, lenders may use data from the main credit reference agencies, commonly including:

Experian
Equifax
TransUnion

(You may also see credit information presented through services that compile data from these agencies.)

Soft vs hard credit checks

You may see different types of credit checks at different stages:

Soft checks are typically used for initial affordability screening and usually don’t affect your credit file in the same way as a hard search.
Hard checks are more likely when you submit a formal application or when a lender is making a more definite assessment.

Credit do’s and don’ts for first-time buyers

Lenders want confidence that you can manage repayments reliably. Small changes in the months leading up to an application can sometimes affect how you’re assessed.

Practical do’s

Keep details consistent across documents
Maintain a stable pattern of payments
Ensure you’re registered to vote where applicable

Practical don’ts

Avoid taking on new debts close to applying
Don’t miss payments or allow direct debits to fail
Avoid making large, unexplained changes to spending patterns
Be cautious with “buy now, pay later” arrangements, as these can affect affordability assessments

Avoid new credit close to application

Taking on additional credit shortly before applying can affect affordability calculations and may influence lender decisions.

Reduce high-cost debt where possible

Credit card balances and other revolving debt can weigh on affordability. Paying down balances can help improve your financial position.

Keep spending patterns stable

Lenders may review recent bank statements. Unusual or irregular spending can raise questions that need explaining.

Save consistently

Regular saving can support your overall application narrative and help you build a deposit.

Keep employment stable (where you can)

Frequent job changes can complicate affordability assessments, particularly if income is variable.

Surveys: why they matter

Even if a lender carries out a valuation, you may still want a more detailed survey to understand the condition of the property.

Common survey approaches include:

A basic condition-focused report (often suitable for newer properties or where risks are lower)
A more detailed structural survey (often considered where the property is older or has potential risk factors)

A survey can help you make an informed decision and, where appropriate, negotiate on price if issues are identified.

Flats: what first-time buyers should watch for

Flats can be a great first step, but leasehold properties often come with extra considerations.

Freehold vs leasehold: know what you’re buying

Property tenure affects ownership and can influence ongoing costs.

Freehold

With a freehold, you generally own the property and the land it sits on.

Leasehold

With leasehold, you own the right to live in the property for a set period (often 99+ years for many flats). You may have to pay:

ground rent
service charges

Leasehold properties can involve additional ongoing costs and rules, so it’s important to review the details carefully before committing.

Lease length (leasehold)

Most flats are leasehold, meaning you buy the right to occupy for a set number of years. A lease that is too short can create problems for lending and future resale.

If you’re considering a flat with a shorter lease, it’s important to factor in the potential cost and timing of extending it.

Service charge and ground rent

Leasehold properties usually involve ongoing costs such as:

service charge (often for communal areas and building insurance)
ground rent (where applicable)

These costs can affect affordability and should be reviewed carefully.

Flats above or very close to commercial premises

Some lenders may be cautious about flats above shops or close to certain commercial uses. The impact can depend on the specific property and the nature of the commercial premises.

8) Common questions first-time buyers ask

It depends on the type of credit issue, how recent it is, and how it affects your overall financial position. Some borrowers may have options through specialist routes, but the key is understanding how lenders are likely to view your circumstances.

Not necessarily. Some lenders may consider applicants with adverse credit, but outcomes depend on the type of credit issue, how recent it is, and how the rest of your application looks (including income and affordability).

Bad credit doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get a mortgage. What matters is the type of issue, how long ago it happened, and how it affects your overall financial profile.

How lenders view credit issues

Lenders may consider factors such as:

missed payments or defaults
county court judgments (CCJs)
the age of the adverse information
how much debt you have and whether it’s being managed

Practical steps before applying

Check your credit file for accuracy and up-to-date information
Review your finances to understand what might be affecting affordability
Avoid making major changes to your credit position right before applying

Why mortgage advice can help

Different lenders have different underwriting approaches. A broker can help you understand which lenders are more likely to consider your circumstances and how to present the application in the strongest way.

Timelines vary based on lender processing, how quickly documentation is provided, and whether there’s a property chain. From application to offer can take weeks, while the journey from offer acceptance to completion is often longer.

Timelines vary, but many purchases take around 8–12 weeks. Complex legal issues, survey findings, or mortgage delays can extend the process.

A lender valuation is not the same as a survey for your benefit. A survey can help you understand the property’s condition and identify potential issues.

Many mortgages allow overpayments, but the rules depend on the deal. Checking the overpayment terms before you commit is important.

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership. Your solicitor or conveyancer manages searches, reviews the title, handles contract exchange, and coordinates completion.

In many cases, buyers can purchase with a smaller deposit, but the mortgage options and pricing may be different compared with higher-deposit scenarios.

In some cases, first-time buyers may be able to access mortgages with lower deposits. Availability and terms depend on your affordability, credit profile, and the specific lender criteria at the time.

Expect to provide identity and address information, evidence of income, and bank statements. Exact requirements depend on your circumstances and the lender.

Some lenders allow gifted deposits, but they typically require confirmation that the funds don’t need to be repaid.

Family support is common. Lenders may ask for proof of funds and details of how the contribution is being provided. The key is ensuring the arrangement is properly documented.

No. A mortgage in principle is an initial indication based on information provided early in the process. A full mortgage offer follows once the lender has carried out more detailed checks.

Buildings insurance (usually required)

Most mortgage contracts require buildings insurance. The lender wants the property protected because it’s their security.

Other protection options

Other types of cover are not always mandatory, but many first-time buyers consider them:

life insurance (to help repay the mortgage if you die)
critical illness cover (to help with mortgage payments if you’re diagnosed with a specified illness)

Insurance needs depend on personal circumstances, so it’s worth thinking about what would happen to mortgage repayments if your income changed.

What happens when your first mortgage deal comes to an end?

Many first-time buyers start on a fixed-rate mortgage. Fixed deals usually end after a set period, after which you’ll need to consider your next option.

Common outcomes include:

moving to a new rate with your existing lender
switching to a different product (often called remortgaging)

At this stage, it’s helpful to review affordability and total costs, not just the headline monthly payment.

A first-time buyer checklist

Use this as a practical preparation list:

Review your affordability and monthly budget
Collect documents (income, identity, address, and statements)
Check your credit profile and address any obvious issues
Plan your deposit (including any gifted funds documentation)
Consider mortgage in principle before you commit to an offer
Keep your finances stable while your application is assessed

For a fuller, step-by-step printable-style checklist, see our First-time buyer checklist.

Moving in and settling down

After completion, the focus shifts from legalities to day-to-day living.

Practical steps to consider

Arrange utilities and services (electricity, gas, water, broadband)
Plan the move logistics (removals, parking, keys)
Update your address with relevant organisations
Budget for immediate priorities such as repairs, redecorating, or essential furnishings

It’s also worth keeping some flexibility in your budget—first-time buyers often discover small costs that weren’t obvious during the viewing stage.

How a mortgage broker can add value (without changing your responsibility)

A broker’s role is to help you understand your options and present your application in a way that fits your circumstances. For first-time buyers, this can be especially useful when:

You’re comparing different mortgage types and terms
You have complex income (for example, commission or variable earnings)
You’re working with a smaller deposit or higher LTV
Your credit history isn’t straightforward
You want to reduce avoidable delays by preparing properly

Mortgage advice is regulated. If you’d like to discuss your options, speak to a qualified mortgage adviser.