Mortgages for First-Time Buyers
Clear, Reassuring Mortgage Advice for Your First Home
Mortgage Advice
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming. New terminology, unfamiliar processes and big financial decisions often arrive all at once and it’s not always clear where to start.
Many first-time buyers worry about making mistakes, missing out on opportunities, or committing too early. The right support can make the process far clearer and far less stressful.
At CiK Finance, we provide straightforward, supportive mortgage advice to help first-time buyers understand their options and move forward with confidence.
What Does “First-Time Buyer” Mean?
You’re usually considered a first-time buyer if you:
Have never owned a property before, or
Have not previously owned a property in the UK
Being a first-time buyer may give access to specific mortgage products or schemes, but eligibility depends on individual circumstances and lender criteria.
CiK’s Approach to First-Time Buyer Mortgages
Our role is to help you understand the process clearly, at your pace.
This includes:
Explaining how mortgages work in plain English
Helping you understand what lenders may consider affordable
Discussing deposit requirements and associated costs
Guiding you through mortgage options available to first-time buyers
There’s no expectation to proceed until you feel ready, many first-time buyers speak to us simply to understand their position.
We focus on clarity and preparation, so decisions are made with confidence rather than pressure.
All advice is provided subject to eligibility, affordability and lender criteria.
Why First-Time Buyers Often Feel Stuck
First-time buyers commonly face challenges such as:
Understanding how much they can realistically borrow
Saving for a deposit while managing rent and living costs
Navigating mortgage terminology and lender requirements
Competing in a fast-moving property market
Without clear guidance, it’s easy to feel unsure about next steps or worry about committing too early.
Deposits, Costs & What to Expect
Buying your first home involves more than just a deposit.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need to consider:
Deposit size
Mortgage fees
Legal and valuation costs
Stamp Duty (where applicable)
Understanding these costs early can help you plan more effectively and avoid surprises later.
Planning Ahead
If you’re not ready to buy immediately, planning ahead can still be valuable.
Understanding how lenders assess applications, what deposit may be required, and how to prepare financially can make the process smoother when the time comes.
FAQs
How much deposit do I need as a first-time buyer?
Deposit requirements vary by lender and product. Some mortgages may be available with lower deposits, subject to eligibility and lender criteria.
Are there schemes available for first-time buyers?
Some government or lender-specific schemes may be available, depending on eligibility and current criteria.
How much can I borrow?
Borrowing amounts depend on income, outgoings and lender affordability assessments. A review of your circumstances helps provide clarity.
How long does the process take?
Timescales vary depending on circumstances, lender processing times and the property itself.
Do I need to have found a property before speaking to a broker?
No. Many first-time buyers speak to us early to understand their options before viewing properties.
Speak to CiK
If you’d like clear, supportive guidance on buying your first home, we’re happy to have an initial conversation and answer any questions you may have.
Book a short, confidential, no-obligation discussion
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Mortgage advice is subject to eligibility, affordability and lender criteria. Any mortgage recommendation would only be made following a full assessment of your circumstances.
Information correct at the time of writing.