Casa Capital — Mortgages Made Simple

    First-time buyer mortgages, explained step by step

    Buying your first home is a big step. We'll show you where you are, where you're going and what to expect on the way — from your first affordability check to getting the keys.

    How we help first-time buyers

    • Work out a realistic budget based on your income, outgoings and deposit
    • Compare a wide range of lenders, including broker-only deals you can't get directly
    • Get your Mortgage in Principle sorted so sellers and agents take you seriously
    • Handle the application and keep things moving with the lender, solicitor and agent

    How much deposit do you need?

    Some lenders accept a 5% deposit, but a bigger deposit can move you into a lower loan-to-value band and unlock better rates. Read how much deposit you need and how LTV bands work.

    Watch out for the first-time buyer trap

    Adding a parent or family member who already owns a home to your mortgage can cost you first-time buyer stamp duty relief. There are often better options — see adding family to your mortgage.

    Expert tip: Check your credit file before you apply. Small errors are easy to fix early and painful to discover mid-application.

    Common questions

    Is first-time buyer mortgage advice free?

    Yes. Advice is free. A fee is only payable when a full mortgage application is submitted, and reapplications are free.

    How much can a first-time buyer borrow?

    Many lenders lend around 4 to 4.5 times household income, subject to affordability checks. Some go higher for certain incomes or professions.

    Advice is free. A fee is payable only when a full mortgage application is submitted, and reapplications are free. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

    Helpful guides

    Buying 6 min read

    How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage in the UK? (2026 Guide)

    How UK lenders work out how much you can borrow, typical income multiples, and simple ways to boost your borrowing power.

    Read guide
    First-Time Buyers 8 min read

    First-Time Buyer Guide UK 2026: Step-by-Step

    Everything first-time buyers need to know: deposits, schemes, stamp duty relief, costs and the buying process from start to keys.

    Read guide
    Costs 5 min read

    Stamp Duty Explained: Rates & Thresholds for 2026

    Current stamp duty (SDLT) rates for England and Northern Ireland, first-time buyer relief, second homes, and worked examples.

    Read guide

    Other ways we can help

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