First-time buyer guide
Plan your first home with a budget that covers every step.
Your deposit is only part of the budget. Allow for legal work, mortgage costs, moving and an emergency buffer before you choose a home.
Your buying steps
Keep the important checks in the right order.
Use these steps to keep your budget, mortgage, legal checks and the exact home in view while the purchase moves forward.
- 01
Work out the full budget
Set aside money for the deposit, legal work, mortgage costs, a survey or snagging inspection, moving and unexpected expenses.
- 02
Get a mortgage decision in principle
Use it as a starting point, not permission to spend the maximum amount. Keep enough room for fees and monthly living costs.
- 03
Compare the exact home
Check which finishes, appliances and features are included with the home you may buy, rather than assuming the show home is standard.
- 04
Use the reservation time carefully
Send the documents to your solicitor and lender quickly, but keep asking questions before you exchange contracts.
Buyer checklist
Keep the important documents and figures together.
Use this list to prepare your questions. Your solicitor, lender and other advisers can confirm what applies to your purchase.
GOV.UK: How to buy a home- Deposit and a separate emergency buffer
- Mortgage, broker and valuation fees where applicable
- Solicitor, searches and Land Registry costs
- Survey or snagging inspection
- Stamp duty estimate and any relief you may qualify for
- Service charge or estate charge for the exact home
Tell us about your move
Start with the home and area you actually need.
Share your location, budget, bedrooms and timing. Property email updates are optional and separate from your enquiry.
Enquiry
Tell us about your first home.
Share the area, maximum budget, bedrooms and timing you have in mind.
Buyer questions
Questions to answer before you move forward.
Clear answers for buyers following the first-time buyer guide route.
01Do first-time buyers always pay no stamp duty?
No. In England and Northern Ireland, relief depends on the purchase price and whether every buyer qualifies. Use the calculator for an estimate and confirm the final amount with your solicitor or HMRC.
02Is a reservation fee the same as a deposit?
No. A reservation fee holds a chosen home for a stated period under written terms. The deposit paid when contracts are exchanged is separate and usually much larger.
03Do I have to use the developer’s recommended solicitor?
No. You can choose your own independent solicitor or licensed conveyancer. Check that they understand new-build contracts and can work within the purchase timetable.
Your next step
Tell us what you’re looking for.
Browse selected new-build homes or tell us what you need for your move.