First-Time Buyer Guides
Independent, plain-English guides on first-time buyer guides, part of our Mortgages hub.
What Is a Mortgage in Principle & Why It Matters (UK)
A mortgage in principle shows sellers you can borrow what you say you can. Learn how it works, how long it lasts, and how to protect your credit score.
How Much Deposit Do You Need for a UK Mortgage? (UK)
UK mortgages typically need a 5-20% deposit, but the size of your deposit shapes your rate, monthly cost and lender choice. Here's how much you really need.
Shared Ownership Explained: How UK Buyer Schemes Work
Shared Ownership lets you buy a share of a home and pay rent on the rest. We explain how it works, the costs, staircasing, and who it suits.
Mortgage Affordability: How UK Lenders Really Decide
UK lenders assess far more than your salary. Discover how income multiples, stress tests and spending habits combine to determine how much you can borrow.
How to Save for a Mortgage Deposit Faster Explained
Practical, realistic ways to build a mortgage deposit faster, from Lifetime ISAs to automated saving habits and cutting the biggest budget leaks.
What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage? (UK)
There's no single UK credit score threshold for a mortgage, but here's how lenders actually use your credit file and what to check before applying.
Renting vs Buying: How to Know You're Ready Explained
Buying isn't automatically better than renting. Here's a practical framework for deciding whether you're financially and personally ready to buy in the UK.
What Happens at a Mortgage Valuation Survey? Explained
A mortgage valuation isn't the same as a full survey. Here's what a lender's valuer actually checks, and whether you need a more detailed survey too.
Joint Mortgages for Unmarried Couples: What to Know
Buying with an unmarried partner needs extra legal thought UK law doesn't automatically cover. Here's what to consider before taking out a joint mortgage.
Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid Explained
From underestimating costs to skipping a proper survey, here are the most common UK first-time buyer mistakes, and how to steer clear of each one.