Step 1: Understanding What You Can Afford (First‑Time Buyer Affordability)
Before you fall in love with your dream home on Rightmove, let’s work out your real affordability.
A few first‑time buyer tips:
- Budget for more than your deposit: survey fees, solicitors, insurance, moving costs, etc.
- We can run a soft‑search affordability check that shows how much you can borrow, without affecting your credit score.
- Don’t worry if you have no idea where to start. That’s literally what Your Mortgage Mate is here for.
This step is key in helping first‑time buyers across the UK understand what’s realistic.
Step 2: Getting Your Agreement in Principle (AIP)
An Agreement in Principle for first‑time buyers is your golden ticket. It proves to estate agents and sellers that a lender is happy to consider lending to you.
Why an AIP matters:
- You’ll be taken seriously when making offers.
- You avoid viewing homes outside your price range.
- It gives you confidence as a first‑time buyer in the UK market.
It’s quick and easy, we’ll sort it with you.
Step 3: House Hunting – The Fun Part!
Here’s where your UK first‑time buyer journey starts to feel exciting.
Smart viewing tips:
- Visit properties at different times of day to check noise levels, parking, and neighbourhood vibes.
- Look for damp, cracks, roof issues, and check the EPC rating (lower bills = happier you).
- Don’t worry about asking “silly” questions, trust us, they’re never silly.
- And yes, you can negotiate as a first‑time buyer… even if the estate agent gives you the look.
If you want advice on a property, we’re always here.
Step 4: Making an Offer on a House (UK Guide)
Found the one? Amazing.
A few tips:
- Stay within your comfort zone, don’t overstretch.
- Let the AIP do the talking for you.
- Expect a bit of back‑and‑forth.
We’ll guide you on making a strong, confident offer so you feel in control.
Step 5: Your Full Mortgage Application
This part can feel intense for first‑time buyers, but we make it as smooth as possible.
You’ll need:
- Payslips or Self-assessments (if self-employed)
- Bank statements
- ID
- Proof of deposit
- Credit history details
We’ll package everything neatly for the lender and manage the first‑time buyer mortgage process end‑to‑end.
Step 6: Valuation, Solicitors & Searches
During this stage:
- The lender checks the property value.
- Your solicitor handles local authority searches, drainage checks, and contracts.
- Things naturally slow down a bit — totally normal!
This is where I keep you updated, chase things on your behalf, and keep everything moving.
Step 7: Exchange, Completion & Getting Your Keys
You’re nearly a homeowner!
Exchange = you’re legally committed.
Completion = money sent, keys handed over, happy new‑home selfies.
This is our favourite part of helping first‑time buyers.
Your Mortgage Mate’s Best First‑Time Buyer Tips
To help you avoid common mistakes:
- Avoid taking out new credit 3–6 months before applying.
- Stay registered on the electoral roll.
- Keep your bank statements looking tidy.
- The lowest rate isn’t always the best mortgage deal.
- Think about income protection, it keeps your home safe if life throws curveballs.
Common First‑Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying on online mortgage calculators (they’re often way off)
- Starting house hunting without an Agreement in Principle.
- Forgetting about extra home‑buying costs
- Not asking for help early, that’s what I’m here for!
How Your Mortgage Mate Helps First‑Time Buyers
As Mortgage Advisers for first‑time buyers, we’re here to support you by:
- Checking your affordability
- Securing your AIP
- Comparing lenders and mortgages across the market
- Accessing specialist options like Funding Circle and Positive Lending
- Working with Openwork’s support to broaden your choices
- Guiding you through each step with a friendly, no‑jargon approach
Whether you’re in Southeast London, Kent, Surrey or anywhere in the UK, we’ve got your back.
Ready to Start Your First‑Time Buyer Journey?
If you’re ready to take your first step, or even if you’re just curious, reach out anytime.
Let’s turn you from “Where do I start?” into “Wow, I’ve got the keys!”
Your Mortgage Mate is with you every step of the way.
