First Time Buyers
Step-by-step mortgage advice to make buying your first home simple, clear, and aligned with your values.
Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home.
Buying your first home is exciting, overwhelming, and full of unfamiliar language. As a whole of market adviser with over 20 years of experience, I help first time buyers across Essex and the UK understand exactly what they can afford, choose the right mortgage, and move into their first home with confidence.
Mortgage Advice Built Around First Time Buyers
You only buy your first home once, so it’s worth doing it properly. I take the time to explain every step in plain English, check what you can realistically borrow, and find the best deal across the whole of the mortgage market. From Agreement in Principle through to picking up your keys, you’ll have one adviser looking after the whole journey.
What to Expect
- Free initial chat to talk through your plans, deposit, and budget
- Clear affordability check so you know what you can realistically borrow
- Agreement in Principle to strengthen your offers to estate agents
- Whole of market search including schemes for smaller deposits
- Advice on government schemes such as Shared Ownership where relevant
- Guidance on solicitors, surveys, and protection for your new home
- Full application management from offer to completion day
FAQs
How much deposit do I need as a first time buyer?
Most lenders look for at least 5% of the property value, though a larger deposit usually unlocks better rates. I’ll run the numbers and show you how different deposit levels affect your monthly payments and total borrowing.
How much can I borrow for my first mortgage?
Typically four to four and a half times your income, though some lenders will stretch further depending on your profession, outgoings, and credit profile. I’ll check criteria across multiple lenders so you know your realistic budget before viewings.
What is an Agreement in Principle and do I need one?
An Agreement in Principle is a lender’s initial indication of what they’ll lend you. Estate agents often ask for one before accepting your offer, so it’s well worth having in place early. I can arrange this for you quickly.
Can I get a mortgage if I've only recently started a new job?
Often yes, even if you’re still in a probation period. Lenders vary, and I know which ones are comfortable with new employment. I’ll match your application to the right lender the first time round.
What costs should I budget for beyond the deposit?
Expect to budget for solicitor fees, searches, a survey, mortgage product fees where applicable, and Stamp Duty if it applies to you. I’ll walk you through every cost so there are no surprises.