First Time Buyer Mortgage

Helping First Time Buyers Get on the Property Ladder

Buying your first home is an exciting, and sometimes daunting, experience. Rising house prices and deposit requirements can make the process feel like an uphill climb. At Strategy Mortgage Solutions, we specialise in supporting first time buyers across the UK to secure their first home mortgage.

We can help you explore a range of options to make ownership more achievable:

• Shared Ownership Schemes: Buy a portion of your home and pay rent on the rest, reducing the deposit you'll need.
• Income Boosting from Lenders: Some lenders allow family contributions or joint borrowing, increasing how much you can borrow.
• Lifetime ISAs: Government bonus schemes that help you save your deposit faster.
• Family Support: Utilise help from parents or family members, often called the Bank of Mum and Dad.

Our mortgage brokers for first time buyers can discuss which route suits you, explaining the pros and cons so you can make well-informed decisions.

Preparing for a Mortgage Application

Getting ready to apply for your first mortgage doesn't need to be stressful. A little preparation gives you the best chance of success and speeds up the whole process.

Here's our expert advice on getting mortgage-ready:

1. Get Your Paperwork Together

Gather proof of income, bank statements, ID, and details of existing financial commitments. Having everything ready helps avoid processing delays and demonstrates to lenders that you're organised.

2. Understand Mortgage Affordability Checks

Lenders assess if you can afford repayments now, and if rates increase. They'll look at:

• Your income (regular pay, bonuses, commission)
• Outgoings (utility bills, travel, childcare, subscriptions)
• Existing debts (credit cards, personal loans, car finance)
• Future affordability: Can you cope if interest rates rise?

Mortgage affordability is a key aspect lenders assess, so we'll help you understand how much deposit you'll need and what you can reasonably borrow.

3. Register on the Electoral Roll

Being registered improves your credit score and helps lenders verify your identity. If you're not already registered in Hertfordshire or Cambridgeshire, do this as soon as possible.

4. Stay Out of Your Overdraft

Regular overdraft usage may negatively impact your application. Try to keep your current account in credit to reassure lenders.

5. Avoid Applying for New Credit

Refrain from taking out new credit cards or loans in the months before and during your mortgage application. Applying for credit can reduce your score and borrowing potential.

6. Manage Your Payments and Spending

Keep up with all payments and avoid missed payments or County Court Judgments (CCJs). Avoid using payday loans, gambling sites, or exceeding credit limits for several months before you apply.

7. Check Your Credit Report

Your credit file will show how you've managed finances over the last six years. Check it for free using Experian (trial), ClearScore, or TotallyMoney. Correct any errors before you apply.

8. Review Financial Associations

If you've shared accounts or loans with someone else previously, you may be financially linked. If you're no longer connected, close joint facilities and request a ‘notice of disassociation' from credit reference agencies.

9. Keep Savings in Your Own Name

Ensure your deposit savings are in an account in your name. Factor in all expenses, like solicitors' fees and Stamp Duty, when budgeting.

10. Consider Mortgage Protection

Your first home is a major commitment, so plan for the unexpected. We provide advice on:

• Life insurance
• Critical illness cover
• Income protection

Choosing the right protection gives you peace of mind, helping to keep your mortgage secure whatever happens.