First time buyers
Your First Home Made Simple
Buying your first home is exciting — but with so many options, rules and processes, it can also feel overwhelming. At Blue Sky Mortgages, we specialise in helping first-time buyers understand their choices and secure the right mortgage with confidence.
Our advisers offer independent, whole-of-market advice, searching a wide range of UK lenders to find a deal that fits your budget and long-term plans.
First-time buyer guidance tailored for you.
As independent, whole-of-market advisers, we’re not restricted to any bank or lender, so the guidance you receive is completely impartial and focused on securing the right deal for you.
We compare rates, fees, incentives and product features in detail, explaining everything clearly so you understand exactly how each option works.
Our aim is to make the journey to your first home as simple, transparent and personalised as possible — giving you confidence at every step.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other loan secured on it, to understand more please click here.
Independent mortgage advice
Whole-of-market access
No complicated jargon
Friendly, efficient advisers
In person, online or phone
What is a First-Time Buyer?
A first-time buyer is someone purchasing a home for the very first time and who has never previously owned a residential property in the UK or overseas. This also applies to anyone who has never inherited a property or been listed on a mortgage. Being a first-time buyer can come with certain benefits, including reduced Stamp Duty for eligible properties and access to mortgage products designed specifically to support newcomers to the market.
If you are buying jointly with someone who has owned property before, you won’t usually be classed as a first-time buyer, even if it’s your first purchase. Having first-time buyer status can make it easier to step onto the property ladder, with potential access to dedicated lender products and government initiatives.
Your Mortgage Options Explained
We help you explore the options that suit your financial plans and long-term goals.
Fixed-Rate
Secure a stable monthly payment for a set term — ideal for budgeting.
Tracker
Your rate moves in line with the Bank of England base rate, meaning payments can rise or fall.
Variable-Rate
Rates set by the lender, offering flexibility but with changing payments.
Specialist Deals
Some lenders offer exclusive products designed specifically for home movers.
We aim to make the mortgage process for first-time buyers simple, supportive and easy to understand. We help you take your first step onto the property ladder with confidence.
your friendly guide
How We Support First-Time Buyers
We offer independent mortgage advice to first-time buyers and guide them through the entire process, ensuring they feel fully informed at every stage.
We believe in providing clear, straightforward guidance that’s tailored to all budgets, circumstances and long-term goals.
- Clear, straightforward explanations without jargon
- Help understanding deposit requirements
- Guidance on government schemes and lender criteria
- Support obtaining a Decision in Principle (DIP)
- Whole-of-market comparison for the best available deals
- Step-by-step support from your first enquiry to completion
Whether you prefer to meet in person, online or over the phone, we’re available 24/7.
Make Informed Decisions with our Simple Calculators
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate how much you could borrow
Stamp Duty Calculator
See what you will pay
Check monthly payments
Your first home doesn’t have to be complicated — we’re here to guide you through every decision.
Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers
Buying your first home is a big milestone. Following these steps can help keep the process clear and manageable:
Speak to a mortgage adviser
We’ll review your income, outgoings, credit history and overall affordability, then give you a realistic idea of what you can borrow.
Build your deposit
Aim for at least 5–10% of the property price. A larger deposit can open up better mortgage deals.
Get an Agreement in Principle (AIP)
This gives you an indication of what a lender may be prepared to offer and shows estate agents you’re a serious buyer.
Start your property search
View suitable homes in your chosen area and consider factors such as transport links, schools and future plans.
Make an offer
When you’ve found the right place, submit a formal offer through the estate agent and negotiate where needed.
Submit your full mortgage application
Once your offer is accepted, we’ll help complete the application and provide the documents your lender requires.
Instruct a solicitor or conveyancer
They’ll handle the legal work, including contracts, local searches and liaising with the seller’s solicitor.
Arrange a survey or valuation
A survey checks the property’s condition and can highlight any structural issues or repairs you should be aware of.
Exchange contracts
You pay your deposit, sign the contracts and agree a completion date. At this point, the purchase becomes legally binding.
Complete and move in
The remaining funds are transferred, the sale completes and you receive the keys to your new home. Time to celebrate becoming a homeowner.
Whole-of-market access to an extensive range of mortgage products.
FAQ
Your Mortgage & Insurance Questions Answered
The first step is to speak to a mortgage adviser who will assess your income, outgoings and credit history to determine what you can afford. We then compare lenders across the market, help you secure an Agreement in Principle and guide you through the full application once you’ve found a property.
A lender will loan you a percentage of the property price, which you repay monthly over an agreed term. Your repayments include the amount borrowed plus interest. We explain all the options — such as fixed, tracker and variable rates — so you understand how each type works.
Most first-time buyers need at least a 5–10% deposit, although putting down more often gives access to better rates. Deposit requirements vary by lender and property type, and we help you understand what’s achievable based on your budget.
Borrowing is based on income and affordability, but improving your credit score, reducing debt and increasing your deposit can help. Some lenders also offer enhanced affordability schemes or family-assisted options. We’ll review your situation and advise on the best approach.
In England and Northern Ireland, many first-time buyers pay no Stamp Duty on properties up to the current threshold. Above that, reduced rates may apply. Rules can change, so we’ll check the latest thresholds for your purchase and explain any costs.