UK FIRST-TIME BUYER RESOURCES

First-time buyer guide: from savings to your keys

First-time buyer guide: learn the UK home-buying steps from budgeting and deposits to surveys, legal checks, exchange and completion.

Plan the complete budget

Start with a realistic purchase price and estimate the deposit, legal work, searches, survey, mortgage fees, removals and a repair reserve. A lender’s borrowing limit should not automatically become your spending limit.

Understand the mortgage process

Check credit reports, gather income evidence and consider speaking with a qualified mortgage adviser. An agreement in principle can help your search but is not a final mortgage offer.

Research before offering

View properties carefully, compare recent sold prices and appoint a surveyor whose service suits the age, construction and condition of the property.

Exchange and completion

Your conveyancer investigates title, searches and enquiries, then helps you understand your legal obligations before exchange. The precise procedure varies across UK nations.

Your next step

Use FirstHome Ready’s free deposit, savings and mortgage calculators, or preview the 18-page home-buying guide.

Try the free calculators → Preview the eBook →

Educational guidance only; not individual mortgage, financial, surveying or legal advice. Check requirements and property taxes with relevant qualified professionals and official sources.