Guidance for First Time Buyers

Thinking About Buying
Your First Home?

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming. I'm here to help guide you through each step, from understanding how much you might be able to borrow to completing your purchase.

Google Reviews

"We had a great experience with Rob. He was very helpful, quick to respond and consistently professional. Rob supported us every step of the way and made the whole process much easier than we expected. We would highly recommend Lynton Mortgages for a stress-free service!"

Eddie Woodward

Google ReviewMarch 2025
Free Tools

Crunch the Numbers

Get a rough idea of your budget with our free calculators. These are estimates only — for accurate figures tailored to you, let's chat.

Important: These calculators provide estimates only. The actual amount you can borrow depends on your credit history, employment status, and individual lender criteria. For accurate figures, please get in touch.

How the Process Typically Works

Here's an overview of the typical steps involved in buying your first home.

01

Initial Chat

We discuss your income and deposit to understand what you might be able to afford.

02

Decision in Principle

I can help you apply for a Decision in Principle, which shows estate agents you've been assessed for a mortgage.

03

Find Your Home

You go house hunting. Once you find a property and have an offer accepted, I handle the full application.

04

Complete the Purchase

I liaise with lenders and solicitors to help keep things moving towards completion.

Want More Detail?

Click each step below to see what typically happens at each stage.

Government Schemes That May Help

If you're finding it difficult to save a large deposit, there are several government-backed schemes that may be worth exploring.

Please note: Government schemes and their terms change regularly. The information below is a general overview only. Please verify current eligibility criteria and terms on gov.uk before making any decisions.

Shared Ownership

Buy a share of your home (often 25%-75%) and pay reduced rent on the rest. This may suit those with a smaller deposit or lower income.

  • Deposit based on share price, not full value
  • Option to buy more shares later ("staircasing")
  • Available on new builds & resales

First Homes Scheme

New-build homes offered at a discount for local first-time buyers and key workers. The discount stays with the property.

  • Discounts typically 30-50%
  • Price caps apply (check gov.uk for current limits)
  • Availability varies by area

5% Deposit Mortgages

The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme encourages lenders to offer 95% mortgages. You may only need to save a 5% deposit.

  • May help you buy sooner
  • Available on properties up to certain values
  • Open to movers too, not just first-time buyers

Lifetime ISA (LISA)

Save towards your first home and receive a government bonus. Must be used for first home (subject to price limits) or retirement.

  • 25% government bonus on savings
  • Must be open for 12+ months to use
  • Penalty if withdrawn for other reasons

Not sure which scheme might suit your situation? I can help you understand your options.

Discuss My Options

The scheme information above is for general guidance only and may not reflect the latest terms or eligibility criteria. Government schemes are subject to change. Always verify details on gov.uk before making decisions. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Be Prepared

What You'll Need

Gather these documents before we chat and you'll be ready to move fast when you find the right home.

Your progress0 of 9 items

Proof of Identity

Valid passport or driving licence

Must be current and not expired

💡 A passport is preferred by most lenders

Proof of address (last 3 months)

Utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill

💡 Mobile phone bills usually aren't accepted

Proof of Income

Last 3 months' payslips

Consecutive months showing your regular income

💡 Include any bonus or overtime if it's regular

Latest P60

Shows your annual earnings and tax paid

💡 You get this from your employer each April

Employment contract (if recent)

Required if you've been in your job less than 3 months

💡 Shows your salary and employment terms

Bank Statements

Last 3 months' bank statements

All accounts where your salary is paid or savings held

💡 Lenders look at your spending habits, so avoid gambling transactions

Evidence of deposit source

Shows where your deposit money came from

💡 If it's a gift, you'll need a signed letter from the giver

Property Details

Property listing or details

Address, price, and estate agent contact

💡 I can help before you've found a property too

Solicitor/conveyancer details

Their name, firm, and contact information

💡 I can recommend local solicitors if you need one

Don't worry if you're missing something

I can tell you exactly what you need based on your situation. Let's have a quick chat and I'll create a personalised checklist for you.

Local Expert

Buying in Alsager?

I live and work here. Here's what you need to know about buying your first home in our town.

Alsager Property Market

Local Market Data Coming Soon

I'm putting together detailed, up-to-date information about property prices and trends in Alsager. In the meantime, I'm happy to chat through what's realistic for your budget.

Areas to Consider in Alsager

Town centre — walkable, convenient
Linley Road area — family-friendly
Near the Mere — peaceful setting

Why First-Time Buyers Love Alsager

Great Commuter Links

Direct trains to Crewe, Stoke, and Manchester. Easy access to M6.

More Affordable Than Nearby

Better value than Nantwich or Knutsford, with similar village feel and amenities.

Excellent Schools

Well-regarded primaries and Alsager School is a popular secondary choice.

Green Spaces

Alsager Mere, Milton Park, and surrounding countryside. Perfect for dog walkers and families.

Independent High Street

Local butchers, bakeries, cafés, and pubs. Real community feel without being isolated.

Growing Community

New developments bringing young families. Active community groups and events throughout the year.

Why Use a Local Broker?

Estate agents in Alsager have their own mortgage advisors — but they work for the seller, not you. I work exclusively for you, the buyer. I know the local market, the solicitors, and can often move faster because I'm right here.

Common Questions

It's normal to have questions. Here are the ones I hear most often.

Rob Davies - First Time Buyer Mortgage Adviser Alsager, Cheshire

Rob Davies

Your local mortgage adviser in Alsager

Have Questions About Buying Your First Home?

You don't need to have found a house yet. In fact, it can be helpful to chat before you start looking.

  • Understand Your Budget

    Get a clearer idea of what you might be able to borrow, so you can focus on properties within reach.

  • Decision in Principle

    I can help you apply for a Decision in Principle certificate to show estate agents.

  • Ask Anything

    No question is too basic. I'm here to explain everything in plain English.

Get in Touch
Fill in this quick form and I'll get back to you to discuss your options.

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