First-Time Buyer Costs Explained: What You Need to Budget For

Knowing what paperwork you’ll need can make the mortgage process far less stressful. Being prepared early helps avoid delays and gives lenders confidence in your application. This guide explains the documents first-time buyers are usually asked for when applying for a mortgage in the UK. Proof of Identity Lenders need to confirm who you are. You’ll usually need: A valid passport or driving licence Proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement) Documents normally need to be recent and clearly readable. Proof of Income This helps lenders assess affordability. Common examples include: Recent payslips P60 Employment contract Bank statements showing salary credits If you have variable income, lenders may ask for additional evidence. Bank Statements Most lenders request 3–6 months of bank statements . They’ll review: Regular income Day-to-day spending Existing financial commitments This helps confirm affordability and financial behaviour. Proof of Deposit You’ll need to show where your deposit comes from. This could include: Savings statements Gifted deposit letters Evidence of funds building up over time Transparency is important – lenders need to see the source of funds clearly. Credit Commitments Details of: Loans Credit cards Finance agreements These are often verified against your credit report. Documents FAQs What if I can’t find a document? An adviser can usually suggest alternatives that lenders may accept. Do documents need to be originals? Most lenders accept digital copies, provided they are clear and complete. Be Prepared and Apply With Confidence Having your documents ready before you apply can make the mortgage process smoother and quicker. If you’re unsure what you’ll need or want help preparing, a mortgage adviser can guide you through it step by step. Clear, supportive mortgage advice for first-time buyers.

Saving a deposit is often the biggest challenge for first-time buyers. If you’ve managed to save 5% , you might be wondering whether that’s enough to buy your first home – and the good news is that yes, it can be . This guide explains how 5% deposit mortgages work, what lenders look for, and what to be aware of before you apply. Is a 5% Deposit Mortgage Possible? Many UK lenders offer mortgages with a 5% deposit , particularly for first-time buyers. This means: You borrow 95% of the property value Your deposit covers the remaining 5% Availability can change depending on market conditions, but 5% deposit mortgages are a common starting point for many buyers. What Lenders Look For With a 5% Deposit Because the lender is taking on more risk, criteria can be stricter. Lenders will usually look closely at: Your income and affordability Your credit history Job stability Monthly commitments Having a clean, well-managed credit history is especially important when applying with a smaller deposit. Pros and Cons of Buying With a 5% Deposit Advantages Get onto the property ladder sooner Smaller upfront savings required Things to consider Fewer mortgage options Higher interest rates compared to larger deposits Monthly payments may be higher It’s about balancing what’s affordable now with your longer-term plans. Alternatives if You Don’t Have 5% If you’re close but not quite there, options may include: Gifted deposits from family Continuing to save for a larger deposit Reviewing your budget to boost savings Understanding your options early can help you plan more confidently. 5% Deposit FAQs Do I need perfect credit for a 5% deposit mortgage? Not perfect, but a clean credit history will usually improve your chances. Can I use a gifted deposit? Yes, many lenders accept gifted deposits, provided certain conditions are met. Get Clear Before You Apply A 5% deposit can be enough to buy your first home, but it’s important to understand how it affects your mortgage choices. If you’re a first-time buyer considering a 5% deposit, getting advice early can help you decide whether it’s the right move for you. Friendly mortgage advice for first-time buyers across the UK.