Official buying stages and important legal considerations.
Trusted resources for first-time buyers
Useful external websites to support your first-home journey, from official rules on government schemes to independent mortgage guidance and advice on property surveys.
Government guidance
Current SDLT rules for England and Northern Ireland; Welsh and Scottish taxes differ.
Eligibility, government bonus and withdrawal restrictions.
Mortgage and money advice
Free impartial information on deposits, mortgages, costs and schemes.
Independent consumer-focused tips on mortgage options and preparation.
Mortgage tools, product comparison and saving guidance.
Independent advice and property checks
Free guidance on home buying, disputes and consumer issues.
Survey types, what surveys cover and why professional inspection matters.
Guidance on choosing conveyancers, surveyors and regulated mortgage advisers.