How to Buy Your First Home: 7 Essential Steps

Buying your first home in the UK might feel overwhelming, but breaking it into clear steps can make the process smoother. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

1. Check Your Finances: Understand how much you can afford, calculate your budget, and save for a deposit. Use tools like mortgage calculators and explore government schemes like the Lifetime ISA or Shared Ownership.
2. Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP): This shows how much you can borrow and makes you a credible buyer to sellers and agents.
3. Find the Right Property: Choose a location that suits your lifestyle and budget. Compare new builds and older homes to see which fits your needs.
4. Make an Offer: Research local property prices and negotiate confidently. Understand whether the property is freehold or leasehold.
5. Complete Legal Checks: Hire a conveyancer to handle conveyancing, including searches and contracts. This step ensures the property is legally sound.
6. Exchange Contracts and Complete: Once contracts are exchanged, the sale is legally binding. Arrange your deposit, insurance, and final payments.
7. Post-Purchase Tasks: Set up mortgage payments, update Council Tax records, and plan for home maintenance or improvements.

Quick Comparison: Freehold vs Leasehold

Buying a home takes preparation, patience, and the right support. Start by sorting your finances, securing a mortgage, and finding a property that fits your needs. Each step builds on the last to help you achieve your goal of homeownership.

Steps To Buying A House For First Time Buyers UK (2025)

Step 1: Check Your Financial Position

Before diving into your property search, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your financial situation. This goes beyond just knowing the price of the property – it’s about assessing what you can realistically afford and setting expectations for your first purchase.

Calculate Your Budget

Start by figuring out how much you can borrow. Most lenders typically offer between 4.5 and 5.5 times your annual salary ^[5]. For instance, if you earn £50,000 a year, you could potentially borrow between £225,000 and £275,000.

To ensure your repayments stay manageable, consider the 28/36 rule ^[5]. This means no more than 28% of your gross monthly income should go towards home-related costs (like your mortgage, insurance, and council tax), and no more than 36% should cover all your debts, including credit cards and loans.

Online mortgage affordability calculators can help you estimate what you can borrow. Major lenders like Barclays, NatWest, Santander, and HSBC UK provide tools for this ^[6][7][8][9]. MoneyHelper also offers a detailed calculator that shows potential monthly repayments and how much disposable income you’ll have left ^[4].

When using these calculators, gather recent payslips, bank statements, and details of any debts ^[4]. Don’t forget to include fixed costs such as energy bills, council tax, insurance, and everyday living expenses ^[4].

For example, to secure a £100,000 mortgage, you’d need an annual salary of roughly £22,000, assuming a lender offers 4.5 times your income ^[5]. However, factors like your credit score, existing debts, and monthly outgoings will also influence the final amount you’re approved for.

Save Your Deposit

Saving for a deposit is often the biggest challenge for first-time buyers. The amount needed varies significantly across the UK. On average, first-time buyer deposits are:

• England: £68,154
• Northern Ireland: £39,034.50
• Wales: £34,475.91
• Scotland: £30,786.97 ^[15].

A larger deposit not only reduces the amount you need to borrow but can also help you secure better mortgage rates and lower monthly payments. For example, a 25% deposit (resulting in a 75% loan-to-value ratio) usually comes with more favourable mortgage terms compared to a 5% or 10% deposit ^[15].

There are government schemes that can help you save for a deposit. The Lifetime ISA, for instance, offers a 25% government bonus on your savings – up to £1,000 per year ^[14]. You can save up to £4,000 annually with this account, which is more generous than the older Help to Buy ISA, capped at £200 per month ^[14].

Other options include the First Homes scheme, which provides properties at 30% to 50% below market value in England ^[13], and Shared Ownership, where you buy a portion of a property and pay rent on the rest ^[16]. The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, running until 30 June 2025, also aims to make 95% mortgages more accessible for those with smaller deposits ^[14][16].

Budget for Extra Costs

Buying a home comes with more expenses than just the property price and deposit. It’s a good idea to set aside about 15% of the property’s value for additional costs ^[11]. These can easily exceed £5,000, excluding Stamp Duty Land Tax.

Here’s a breakdown of common extra costs:

• Legal and conveyancing fees: Around £2,000 (including VAT).
• Local searches: £250–£400.
• Electronic transfer fees: £25–£50.
• Mortgage fees: Booking fee (£100–£200), arrangement fee (£1,000–£2,000+), account fee (£100–£300).
• Surveys: Level 1 starts at ~£380, Level 3 from ~£600, and new-build snagging surveys at ~£300.
• Removal costs: Starting at ~£400.
• Temporary storage: ~£22 per week for 50 sq ft ^[10].

Stamp Duty Land Tax can also be a significant expense, potentially reaching up to 12% of your property’s value, depending on its price and your situation ^[10].

It’s wise to have at least three months’ worth of mortgage payments saved as a financial cushion ^[5]. This emergency fund can protect you from unexpected expenses or income changes, ensuring your budget stays on track.

Additionally, consider Home Buyer Protection Insurance, starting at £74. This can help you recover costs like conveyancing fees, survey charges, and mortgage fees if your purchase falls through ^[12]. It’s particularly useful when dealing with the uncertainties of property chains.

Once you’ve clarified your budget and savings, you’ll be ready to move on to securing a mortgage agreement in principle.

Step 2: Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

Once you’ve sorted out your finances, the next step is to secure a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP). This document gives you a clear idea of how much you might be able to borrow, helping you understand your budget.

An AIP – sometimes called a Mortgage Promise or Decision in Principle – is essentially an estimate from a lender that outlines the amount they could lend you ^[17][18]. While it’s not a formal mortgage offer, it can be a powerful tool when negotiating or making offers on properties. In competitive housing markets, particularly in Scotland, some estate agents even require an AIP before allowing you to arrange viewings ^[17]. Typically, an AIP remains valid for 30 to 90 days ^[17].

“A mortgage in principle is a valuable tool for homebuyers, offering an initial estimate of borrowing potential and demonstrating financial readiness to estate agents and sellers.” ^[17] – Nick Green, Financial Journalist, Unbiased.co.uk

Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready to streamline the process.

Choose the Right Mortgage

When selecting a mortgage, you’ll need to weigh up fixed-rate and variable (tracker) options. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability with consistent monthly payments, making them ideal for those who prefer predictability. On the other hand, variable (tracker) mortgages follow market rates, meaning your payments could go up or down depending on interest rate changes.

Gather Required Documents

The AIP application itself is quick – usually taking around 10–15 minutes – but having your paperwork ready in advance will make the process smoother ^[21][22]. The documents you’ll need for an AIP are very similar to those required for a full mortgage application ^[23].

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Photo ID and proof of address (for example, a recent utility bill or bank statement) ^[23][24].
• A record of your addresses for the past three years ^[22][25].
• Proof of income: employed applicants should provide their latest payslip or up to six months’ worth ^[23][24]. Self-employed individuals may need SA302 forms or business accounts covering one to two years ^[23][24].
• Bank statements from the last three months, proof of your deposit, and details of any existing debts or credit commitments ^[23].

If you’ve already found a property you’re interested in, having those details on hand can also be useful ^[23]. You can apply for an AIP in several ways – online, through a mobile app, over the phone, via video call, or in person ^[21][22]. Many major lenders offer online applications that can be completed in under ten minutes ^[19][20].

Understand Soft Credit Checks

Before applying, it’s important to know how credit checks work during the AIP process. One of the key benefits of an AIP is that most lenders use soft credit checks, which don’t affect your credit score. These checks remain invisible to other lenders and won’t impact your ability to borrow in the future ^[20][25][19].

This is different from hard credit checks, which are visible to other lenders and can potentially lower your credit score, especially if several checks are conducted in a short time ^[27][28].

“Getting an AIP doesn’t impact your credit score, as we don’t run a ‘full’ credit check. This is only something we would run if you went on to apply for a mortgage with us.” ^[19] – NatWest

“Soft credit checks do not affect your credit rating. They do not appear to lenders on your credit report and will not affect your ability to apply for borrowing in the future.” ^[25] – Nationwide

Since practices vary, it’s worth confirming with each lender whether they use a soft or hard credit check for their AIP process ^[26]. Additionally, if your circumstances change – such as a pay rise or a new job – it’s a good idea to update your AIP during your property search ^[18].

Step 3: Find the Right Property

With your mortgage agreement sorted, the next step is to hunt for a property that fits both your budget and your aspirations. This involves carefully weighing up factors like location, property value, and type to ensure your choice aligns with your present needs and future plans.

Pick Location and Features

Choosing the right location is pivotal. Think about your lifestyle, the amenities you prioritise, and what you can afford. Regional price differences, transport links, local facilities, and school catchment areas all play a role in narrowing down your options.

“The secret to finding an ideal area is to consider your lifestyle, what facilities and amenities are important to you, and how much you can afford. You can then pinpoint the best location to match your needs.” ^[29]

The gap in house prices across the UK is striking. For instance, the average property in London costs £556,000, while in the North East, it’s just £161,000 ^[32]. Beyond cost, consider how your daily commute might affect your quality of life. Proximity to motorways, train stations, or bus routes can make a huge difference in convenience and even add value to your property ^[29].

For families, school catchment areas are a crucial factor. Check how local schools perform by reviewing league tables, and confirm the catchment boundaries with your local council ^[30]. Additionally, visit potential neighbourhoods at various times of the day. A quiet street during a midday viewing might feel entirely different during rush hour or on a weekend evening. Tools like crime maps, planning portals, and flood risk assessments can also provide a clearer picture of the area ^[30].

“The importance of location when choosing a home cannot be overstated. From daily convenience and safety to long-term financial considerations and emotional well-being, the property location impacts nearly every aspect of your life. But by carefully evaluating your needs and priorities, you can find a location that aligns with your lifestyle and enhances your overall happiness and satisfaction in your new home.”

• James Hilton, Arbuthnot Latham Mortgage Adviser ^[31]

If you’re hesitant about committing to an area, renting there for a short period can help you decide if it suits your lifestyle ^[32].

Here’s a snapshot of average house prices across UK regions to give you a better understanding of the market:

Check Property Values

Once you’ve zeroed in on promising areas, it’s time to assess property values. Online tools like Zoopla and Rightmove are a good starting point, but for a more accurate picture, get a free valuation from a local estate agent. This will account for unique features and the property’s condition. Compare asking prices with recent sales data in the area to make sure you’re paying a fair price. Don’t forget to budget for extra costs like legal fees and surveys ^{[33] [34] [35] [37]}.

House price indices, such as Nationwide’s house price calculator, can also offer insights into market trends in your chosen area. While helpful, these tools should only serve as a guide ^[36].

New Builds vs Older Homes

Deciding between a new-build property and an older home comes down to your personal priorities. Interestingly, 80% of first-time buyers in the UK chose older homes, and 64% of people say an older property would be their dream home if cost wasn’t a factor ^[41].

New builds come with benefits like 10-year NHBC warranties, better energy efficiency, and quicker transactions since there’s no chain involved. However, they often come at a premium and can be smaller in size. On the other hand, older homes tend to offer more space, character, and established surroundings, but they may require more upkeep and might not be as energy-efficient. If you’re considering a new build, ensure all specifications are confirmed in writing as they can sometimes change during the process ^{[39] [40] [41] [42]}.

“Choosing to buy a new home vs an old home is a decision that is deeply personal and shaped by individual preferences and requirements.”

• Genesis Homes ^[38]

If you value convenience and lower running costs, a new-build property might be the better option. But if charm, space, and unique features are what you’re after, an older home could be the perfect fit ^[40].

Step 4: Make an Offer and Complete Legal Checks

Once you’ve found a property that ticks all your boxes, the next step is to make an offer and dive into the legal process.

Submit Your Offer

Before making an offer, it’s essential to do your homework. Angela Kerr, Director and Editor at HomeOwners Alliance, puts it simply:

“Before making an offer on a house, research local house prices… so you understand how much houses like the one you are looking at are actually selling for” ^[43].

Data shows that 39% of buyers pay the full asking price, while another 39% negotiate for less, often within 10% of the asking price. Aiming 5%-10% below the asking price is a good starting point – especially if you can highlight advantages like being chain-free, having a mortgage agreement in principle, or offering flexible timescales ^[43].

Setting a maximum budget before negotiating is a must. Factors like chain-free status and flexibility can make you a more appealing buyer. The HomeOwners Alliance suggests:

“If you can show flexibility, such as with time scales, it may make you a more attractive buyer and you may get a lower offer accepted as a result” ^[43].

Ask the estate agent about the level of interest in the property and the seller’s reasons for moving. If similar properties in the area are selling slowly, this could give you room to negotiate further. However, in competitive situations or sealed bid scenarios, you might need to lead with your best offer rather than starting low. With house prices expected to rise in 2025 and mortgage rates predicted to drop, sellers are offering larger discounts as the market shifts in favour of buyers ^[43][44].

Once your offer is ready, it’s crucial to understand how property ownership types could affect your purchase.

Know Leasehold vs Freehold

The distinction between leasehold and freehold ownership is critical, as it impacts your long-term obligations and costs.

Freehold ownership means you own both the property and the land it’s on indefinitely. This is common for houses in the UK and gives you full control. While you’re responsible for maintenance and repairs, you won’t have to pay ground rent or service charges ^[50].

Leasehold ownership, on the other hand, means you own the property for a fixed term – typically 90 to 999 years – but not the land it sits on. The freeholder owns the land, and you may need to pay ground rent and service charges. Flats and maisonettes are usually leasehold properties ^[50].

Here’s how the two compare:

Lease length is a key factor. A lease with less than 80 years remaining can reduce a property’s value and make securing a mortgage difficult. After owning a leasehold property for two years, you can extend the lease by 90 years (or up to 125 years in Northern Ireland), though this can be costly ^[50].

Before making an offer on a leasehold property, check the freeholder’s reputation and carefully review the lease for any restrictions on pets, alterations, or running a business. If the lease is short, factor in the potential cost of extending it, which could add thousands to your overall expenses ^[52][53].

Legal Checks with Fletcher Longstaff

Once your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. Fletcher Longstaff offers a streamlined approach to these checks with our digital tools, ensuring your investment is secure.

Our legal checks cover title deeds, local authority, environmental, and water searches, as well as reviewing plans, boundaries, and mortgage documents. These searches typically cost £250–£400, with Land Registry searches adding an extra £4–£9 ^[47].

Our digital system stands out by eliminating the need for in-person meetings and our client portal and app lets you track progress in real time – an invaluable feature, especially for first-time buyers ^[45].

With a 5★ Trustpilot rating from over 1,000 reviews and 7 ESTAS awards, and our ReviewSolicitors rating is 5.0/5 from 1,346 reviews, with clients praising our efficiency and communication ^[45][49].

Here’s what some clients had to say:

“Tom, simply put, was the most straightforward, easy-to-work with and efficient person throughout our entire purchase” ^[45].

“Fletcher Longstaff is like no other and by far the best conveyancing solicitors we have come across. The service is thorough, focused and efficient” ^[49].

We offer a fixed fee structure and a ‘No Completion, No Fee’ guarantee, ensuring transparency, and we are approved by all major UK mortgage lenders ^[48].

As a buyer, you’ll need to provide evidence of where your purchase funds come from. Don’t hesitate to ask your conveyancer questions about the searches and their results – this is your chance to uncover any issues before committing legally ^[46][47].

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Step 5: Complete the Conveyancing Process

Once your offer is accepted and the legal checks are underway, the next step is to finalise the transfer of property ownership. This involves handling essential paperwork and registering the property in your name.

Main Conveyancing Steps

The conveyancing process, from offer acceptance to registration, typically takes 12–16 weeks. A legal firm explains it as follows:

“Conveyancing is transferring land from one person to another. In terms of a property purchase, the conveyancing process starts when your offer on a property is accepted and finishes when your purchase has been registered at HM Land Registry, after you have moved into your new property”.

Here’s a breakdown of the main stages and how long each one usually takes:

Freehold properties often complete faster, averaging 8–10 weeks, while leasehold transactions can take 10–12 weeks. Leasehold purchases involve extra steps, such as obtaining management information packs and reviewing lease terms, which add time to the process.

During this period, your solicitor will handle key tasks like reviewing the draft contract and conducting comprehensive property searches. These include checks for planning permissions, road schemes, potential contamination risks, water and drainage issues, flood risks, and – where applicable – mining activity.

For leasehold properties, an additional step involves requesting a management information pack. This contains details about service charges, insurance, and any upcoming major works, which explains the longer timeline for these transactions.

The ownership transfer is formalised through the TR1 document, which is essential for registering the property in your name.

Meet Legal Requirements

As you move through the process, several legal requirements must be fulfilled to ensure everything is in order before completion.

• Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs): The seller must provide a valid EPC, which rates the property’s energy efficiency. These certificates are valid for 10 years, so make sure to review it carefully.
• Proof of funds and identity verification: Be ready to provide bank statements, savings records, gift letters (if applicable), and copies of your passport or driving licence, along with recent utility bills.
• Unregistered properties: If the property hasn’t been recorded with HM Land Registry – common for older homes – first registration will be required. This can add time to the process ^[59].
• Building insurance: Arrange this before exchanging contracts. Your mortgage lender will need proof that the property is adequately insured, as you become responsible for it from the moment contracts are exchanged ^[55].
• Local authority checks: Your solicitor will confirm that all planning conditions, building regulation approvals, and restrictions are satisfied, ensuring nothing interferes with your intended use of the property.

‘No Completion, No Fee’ Protection

To safeguard your finances, consider services like Fletcher Longstaff’s ‘No Completion, No Fee’ guarantee, which protects you from legal fees if the purchase falls through. Our 100% UK-based team offers personalised service, balancing manageable caseloads to ensure attention to detail throughout your transaction.

Fletcher Longstaff also uses a modern, digital-first approach, replacing paper-based procedures with online ID checks and electronic documents ^[45]. And our Client Portal and App provides real-time updates, giving you complete transparency during the process ^[45].

With a fixed fee structure, you’ll know exactly what your conveyancing costs will be from the start. This is particularly helpful for first-time buyers who need clarity and reliable updates during what can be a complex process. We have earned over 1,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot and won 7 ESTAS awards, reflecting our commitment to excellent service ^[45].

Step 6: Exchange Contracts and Complete

Once the conveyancing process is wrapped up, it’s time to exchange contract. When contracts are exchanged, the purchase becomes legally binding. This makes thorough preparation by your conveyancer absolutely essential for a smooth and successful completion. Completion then follow, and that’s when you finally get the keys to your new home.

The exchange of contracts happens when you and the seller sign and swap the legal documents through your conveyancers. This typically takes place between 10am and noon, but can happen any point in the day, and once done, both parties are legally committed to the transaction. Angela Kerr, Director and Editor, explains:

“With the exchange of contracts you legally commit to buying the property” ^[62].

Before this point, either party can withdraw without penalties. However, once exchanged, backing out could lead to heavy financial losses, including forfeiting your deposit. On average, the gap between exchange and completion is around seven days ^[62].

Before the exchange, make sure everything is in order: confirm your mortgage offer, transfer the deposit funds, arrange building insurance, and agree on a completion date. Your solicitor will handle the exchange process, during which you’ll typically pay a deposit – usually about 10% of the property’s price.

Transfer Deposits Safely

When transferring your deposit, security is critical. Fletcher Longstaff’s digital system ensures your funds are moved securely. The safest method is CHAPS (Clearing House Automated Payment System), which allows same-day, high-value transfers for property transactions ^[63]. Additionally, the Payment Systems Regulator provides protection with a maximum reimbursement level of £85,000 for authorised push payment claims, offering an extra layer of security for buyers.

To avoid cyber fraud, double-check your solicitor’s account details using a secure method. It’s also wise to transfer your deposit well ahead of the exchange deadline, giving the funds time to clear. Once transferred, get written confirmation that the money is safely held by a regulated solicitor with professional indemnity insurance.

Our digital payment system, managed by a 100% UK-based team, ensures direct communication and minimises the risk of email fraud.

With your deposit handled, the next step is to arrange insurance for your new home.

Set Up Insurance

Buildings insurance must be active from the moment contracts are exchanged. This is because you become responsible for the property even before receiving the keys. Your mortgage lender will require proof of adequate buildings insurance before releasing funds, and the policy should cover the full rebuild cost, not just the market value. Most insurers allow you to set the start date of your coverage, so coordinate this with your exchange date.

While contents insurance isn’t legally required until you move in, it’s a good idea to have it ready from completion day to protect your belongings during the move. If you’re buying a leasehold property, check whether buildings insurance is covered in your service charges. Often, the freeholder or management company arranges it, but you’ll still need your own contents insurance.

Once insurance is sorted, it’s time to prepare for any unexpected delays.

Plan for Delays

Delays in property chains can be frustrating, so planning ahead can help reduce stress and unexpected costs. Set aside extra funds to cover expenses like temporary accommodation, additional legal fees, or even emergency removal services. If completion is delayed and you need short-term funding, discuss bridge financing options with your mortgage broker.

It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan for temporary housing. Stay in regular contact with your conveyancer, and if possible, negotiate flexible completion terms with the seller to allow for a few extra days in case of last-minute issues.

Our Client Portal and App keeps you updated in real time throughout the exchange and completion process, so you’ll always know where things stand.

Once everything is finalised, completion day arrives. You’ll receive the keys to your new home, and your conveyancer will register your ownership with HM Land Registry. Finally, you can celebrate becoming a homeowner!

Step 7: Handle Post-Purchase Tasks

Becoming a homeowner doesn’t end with getting the keys. The first few weeks are packed with essential tasks to ensure your new home runs smoothly and your transition is stress-free. Here’s what you need to tackle next.

Set Up Mortgage Payments

Once the purchase is complete, setting up your mortgage payments should be a top priority. Your first payment might differ slightly, as it usually covers the period from completion to your first regular payment date. To avoid any confusion, double-check your mortgage documents for the exact amount and due date. Setting up a Direct Debit is a simple way to ensure you never miss a payment.

If you’re in a position to do so, consider making overpayments or lump-sum contributions. For instance, Barclays allows these options, which can help you save on interest and shorten your mortgage term significantly ^[64]. However, if financial challenges arise, don’t hesitate to contact your lender – they can offer support tailored to your situation.

Update Council Tax Records

Make sure to register for Council Tax with your local council as soon as possible. You can do this online using your new address, move-in date, and details of anyone over 18 living in the property. You may also need your bank details to set up a Direct Debit and your completion statement as proof of ownership ^[67].

It’s worth checking your Council Tax band to confirm you’re paying the correct amount. These bands are based on property values from 1st April 1991 ^[65][68]. You can compare your band to similar properties on the GOV.UK website or your council tax bill ^[66][69]. If you suspect your property is in the wrong band, gather evidence and submit it to the Valuation Office Agency for review.

Remember, Council Tax funds essential local services like waste collection, libraries, and emergency services ^[68][70]. If payments become a challenge, contact your council promptly. They might let you spread payments over 12 months instead of the usual 10 ^[68][70].

Plan Home Improvements

Owning a home means keeping it in good shape. Start by creating a maintenance schedule to handle regular upkeep and improve energy efficiency. Routine maintenance can save you from costly repairs down the line ^[71].

If you’re considering upgrades, focus on projects that enhance both functionality and property value. A home energy audit, for example, can help you identify areas where you could save on energy costs ^[72]. For significant work, always get at least three written quotes and keep all documentation for your records ^[72][73].

Whenever possible, try to fund improvements with your savings to avoid unnecessary interest charges. Having a detailed budget will also help you balance these expenses with your regular monthly costs. If you’re hiring contractors, a schedule of works can act as an informal contract, so ensure all agreements are well-documented ^[74].

Key Points for First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home is a major financial milestone, but it comes with its challenges. In the UK, house prices have risen by 5.4%, bringing the average to £268,000 as of February. On top of this, it now takes around 11 years and 3 months to save for a deposit. The average age of first-time buyers has also crept up from 31 to 32 years ^[3].

Sorting your finances is the first step. Begin by reviewing your credit score and setting up a detailed budget that includes all the costs of owning a home – not just the mortgage. Make sure your deposit and savings plan align with this budget. A Lifetime ISA (LISA) can be a helpful tool to grow your savings faster ^[1][3]. Taking these steps early will make the process smoother as you move forward.

Don’t forget about hidden costs. Expenses such as property valuations (£150–£1,500), surveyor fees (£300–£1,500), and legal fees (£900–£1,900) can quickly add up ^[3]. As a financial planning firm advises:

“A full financial overview reduces moving stress and sets you up on a strong footing.”

Beyond financial prep, professional support makes a big difference. Many buyers (42%) are unhappy with their conveyancers ^[76], so it’s worth choosing one who offers clear communication and digital services. Also, explore government schemes designed to help first-time buyers cut costs.

Speaking of government support, first-time buyers in England and Northern Ireland can take advantage of Stamp Duty exemptions on homes priced up to £300,000 ^[1]. Research these schemes early to see how they can benefit you.

The conveyancing process usually takes 12–16 weeks ^[55], so communication with your legal team and patience are essential. Securing a mortgage in principle early on can also make you more appealing to sellers, showing that you’re serious about buying ^[1][2].

Another important consideration is whether to go for a freehold or leasehold property. This decision impacts your upfront costs and long-term responsibilities ^[1]. Don’t forget to budget for ongoing expenses like buildings insurance, Council Tax, and maintenance to ensure the property remains affordable over time.

Success in buying your first home comes down to careful planning, realistic budgeting, and surrounding yourself with professionals who can guide you through the process with confidence.

FAQs