Mortgage, protection and equity release advice across East Sussex
First time buyer mortgages in Eastbourne and East Sussex
Buying your first home is exciting and, if we're honest, a bit daunting. I'll explain every step in plain English, help you understand what you could borrow, and stay with you until you get the keys.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Five things to sort before you start viewing
A little preparation now makes the whole process calmer, and puts you in a stronger position when you find the right place.
- Check your credit fileLenders will. Spotting a mistake or an old address early can save weeks. Check your credit file with Checkmyfile, which offers a free trial; check its current terms before you sign up.
- Know your depositMost first time buyer mortgages need a deposit of at least 5%. A bigger deposit usually opens up lower rates.
- Line up any family helpIf family are giving you money towards the deposit, lenders will want a signed gifted deposit letter confirming it's a gift and not a loan.
- Get an agreement in principleIt shows estate agents you're a serious buyer. I can usually arrange one quickly once we've talked.
- Budget for the extrasLegal fees, surveys, lender fees, moving costs and, above £300,000 in England, stamp duty. There's more on costs below.
Stamp duty for first time buyers
If you're buying your first home in England or Northern Ireland, you pay no stamp duty on the first £300,000. You pay 5% on the portion between £300,001 and £500,000.
If the price is over £500,000, first time buyer relief doesn't apply and normal rates are paid on the whole price.
Rates checked against GOV.UK in October 2026. Scotland and Wales have their own taxes, which the calculator also covers.
Worked example
| Purchase price | £350,000 |
|---|---|
| First £300,000 | 0%, so £0 |
| Next £50,000 | 5%, so £2,500 |
| Stamp duty to pay | £2,500 |
Ways family can help
If you're getting help from parents or other relatives, there are a few ways it can work. Each has pros and cons, and I'll explain them properly.
A gifted deposit
The simplest option. A family member gives you money towards the deposit, and signs a letter confirming it's a gift with no expectation of repayment.
Joint borrower, sole proprietor
A parent's income is used alongside yours to help you borrow more, without them being named on the deeds. Not every lender offers it.
Family-backed mortgages
Some lenders let a relative's savings or property support your mortgage, which can reduce the deposit you need. Their money or home may be at risk if repayments aren't kept up.
Costs to budget for
The deposit is the big one, but it isn't the only cost. Knowing these up front means no surprises later.
| Deposit | Usually at least 5% of the price. |
|---|---|
| Stamp duty | Nothing up to £300,000 for first time buyers in England and Northern Ireland. |
| Legal fees | Your solicitor or conveyancer's fees, plus searches and Land Registry costs. |
| Survey | Optional but recommended, from a basic report to a full building survey. |
| Lender fees | Some mortgages have an arrangement fee; lower rates often come with higher fees. |
| Mortgage advice | There may be a fee. I estimate it will be £495 for a residential purchase. |
| Moving costs | Removals, connections and the bits you'll need on day one. |
Once you've got the keys
It's worth thinking about how the mortgage would be paid if you couldn't work, or if the worst happened. I'll talk you through the options, with no pressure and no fee.
First time buyer questions
How much deposit do I need?
Most lenders need at least 5% of the purchase price. A bigger deposit usually gives you access to lower rates, because the lender is taking less risk.
What is an agreement in principle?
It's a statement from a lender showing how much they may be prepared to lend, based on the information you've given. Estate agents often ask for one before they'll put your offer forward. It isn't a guarantee of a mortgage.
How long does buying a home take?
It varies, but from offer accepted to completion is often two to three months. Chains, surveys and legal work can make it quicker or slower, and I'll keep things moving on the mortgage side.
Will speaking to you affect my credit score?
No. An initial conversation involves no credit search at all. Some lenders use a soft search for an agreement in principle, which doesn't affect your score, while others use a full search. I'll tell you which before anything is submitted.
How much can I borrow?
Many lenders start from around four to four and a half times your income, then look closely at your outgoings, credit history and deposit. Some will lend more for certain incomes or professions. The affordability calculator gives a rough guide, and I can give you a far more accurate answer once we've talked.
Thinking about buying your first home?
Book a free first conversation. We'll look at what you could borrow and what to do next, with no obligation.