Buying a house?
Start here.
I've written these guides to walk you through every step of buying your first home — from working out your deposit to getting the keys. No jargon, no sales pitch. Just clear, honest advice.
Your First Home: what has been announced so far
The Government has announced a proposed England-only equity-loan scheme for some first-time buyers purchasing a participating developer's new build. It is expected to support a 2.5% deposit alongside a 20% government-backed equity loan.
Important: applications are not open and the final eligibility rules, price caps, costs and start date are still due at the Budget.
Read the full factual updateAt a glance
What has been announced
England, first-time buyers, participating new builds, an expected 2.5% deposit and a 20% government-backed equity loan.
Still to be confirmed
Eligibility, local price caps, costs, developer participation and when applications can start.
Checked against the Government announcement on 28 September 2026.
Buying Your First Home in Cheshire — The Honest Guide
Everything in one place. From working out what you can afford, to saving your deposit, to getting the keys. Seven sections covering the full journey, with local prices, practical checklists, and a free downloadable toolkit.
Your Mortgage Deal Is Ending — A Plain English Guide
Never remortgaged before? This guide walks you through everything — what that letter from your lender means, your options, what it costs, and what actually happens. Plus a free tool to check when your deal ends.
Your Step-by-Step Buying Guides
Each guide covers a different stage of the buying process. Read them in order for the full picture, or jump to whichever stage you're at.
How Much Deposit Do I Need?
Everything you need to know about saving for a deposit — from 5% and 10% options to Lifetime ISAs, gifted deposits, and how much you really need to get started.
Can I Get a 100% Mortgage?
No deposit? It's not impossible. Learn about guarantor mortgages, family springboard schemes, and the latest no-deposit options available in the UK.
How to Deal with Estate Agents
Your guide to navigating estate agents as a first-time buyer. What to expect, what to ask, how to stand out, and the red flags to watch for.
Making an Offer on a House
How much should you offer? How do you negotiate? What about sealed bids? A practical guide to making your first offer with confidence.
After Your Offer Is Accepted
Your offer has been accepted — congratulations! Here's what happens next, from instructing a solicitor to the mortgage application and beyond.
Surveys and Valuations Explained
What's the difference between a mortgage valuation and a house survey? Which level do you need? What happens if problems are found?
Exchange and Completion Day
The final stretch. Understand what happens at exchange of contracts, what completion day looks like, and when you finally get the keys.
Essential Money Guides
Important topics that don't fit neatly into a single step, but you'll definitely need to understand.
Stamp Duty for First-Time Buyers
How much Stamp Duty will you pay? Understand the current rates, first-time buyer relief, thresholds, and see worked examples for typical property prices.
Mortgage Broker vs Going Direct to the Bank
What's the difference between using a broker and going straight to your bank? An honest look at both options, including when each one might make sense.
