How can first-time buyers get on the ladder faster?
Buying a first home can feel more challenging than ever. With fluctuating property prices, deposit hurdles, affordability checks and changing market conditions, many first-time buyers are asking the same question: how do I get on the property ladder sooner?
The good news is that there isn’t just one route to homeownership. From smart saving strategies and government schemes to location choices and financial planning, there are a range of ways buyers are finding their path onto the ladder.
We’ve gathered insights and experiences from our Members to explore practical tips, real-life advice and different approaches that have helped first-time buyers move closer to owning their first home.
Biggest mistakes and how to avoid them
Frances Bowling, Operations Director of Moss Properties, says, “One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is starting their property search before understanding their finances properly. It is very easy to fall in love with a property online or at a viewing, only to later discover that the mortgage amount, deposit, monthly payments or additional buying costs do not quite work. This can lead to disappointment, wasted time and sometimes missed opportunities. The best way to avoid this is to speak to a mortgage adviser before viewing properties seriously. A buyer should understand how much they may be able to borrow, what deposit they need, what their monthly payments may look like and what other costs they need to budget for, such as solicitor fees, surveys, insurance and moving costs.”
“Not being fully prepared and ready to respond on a good property when it comes up,” Alex Simmons, Director at Clive Pearce Property, shares. “It is important to sit down with an independent mortgage advisor and be ready with a mortgage agreement in principle and deposit funds that can be easily demonstrated. If the deposit is gifted, then the proof & source of funds from the person gifting it will also be needed. It is advisable to visit your local Guild estate agents in person and get to know them as you want to stand out if there are a number of buyers competing. Often when there are a number of potential buyers, agents will help their clients pick, based upon factors such as the simplicity or complexity of a buyer's situation and the likelihood of a smooth transaction based on what they know about the buyers. It’s not always the highest offer that wins, sometimes sellers will take into account the buyers’ back story and situation just as much as the amount on offer.”
Katie Griffin, Director of Sawdye & Harris, adds, “One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is starting with the property search before they fully understand their financial position. It is completely understandable — the exciting part is looking at homes, imagining where furniture will go and picturing a future — but the strongest first-time buyers are the ones who do the preparation first. That means speaking to a mortgage adviser early, understanding affordability, knowing what deposit they need, budgeting for legal fees, surveys and moving costs, and having an agreement in principle ready before they start viewing seriously. In the current market, buyers often have more choice and a little more thinking time than they may have had a few years ago, but that does not mean preparation matters any less. Sellers still want confidence that a buyer is serious, financially qualified and capable of moving forward. A well-prepared first-time buyer can stand out for the right reasons — not because they are paying over the odds, but because they are credible, organised and ready to proceed when the right home comes along.”
“One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is focusing solely on the purchase price without fully preparing their finances beforehand,” Leanne Barlow, senior residential valuer at Charnock Bates, states. “Outstanding credit card balances, loans, and missed payments can all impact mortgage affordability and reduce the range of deals available. Buyers can put themselves in a much stronger position by clearing debts where possible, improving their credit score, and speaking to a mortgage adviser early in the process to understand exactly what they can comfortably afford.”
Effective deposit saving tips
Frances Bowling shares, “The first step is to know the target. Many buyers say they are “saving for a deposit” without knowing whether they need £5,000, £10,000, £15,000 or more. Once they understand the likely purchase price and mortgage options available, saving becomes much more focused."
"The most effective methods are usually:
- Setting up a separate savings account specifically for the deposit
- Automating savings on payday before money is spent elsewhere
- Reviewing subscriptions, car finance, credit commitments and discretionary spending
- Reducing credit card balances where possible
- Considering whether family support is available
- Using government-backed savings options where suitable
A Lifetime ISA can be useful for eligible first-time buyers aged 18 to 39, as it allows them to save up to £4,000 per year and receive a 25% government bonus, up to £1,000 per year, provided the rules are met."
Lisa Frost, Sales Manager of Charnock Bates, comments, “For many buyers, the key is not just saving more but also improving affordability by reducing existing debts and keeping bank statements clean in the months before applying.”
"Using a Help to Buy or Lifetime ISA can provide a useful boost to savings, particularly when combined with disciplined monthly saving habits. Buyers should also review their spending carefully and remember to budget not only for the deposit, but for future household bills, renovations, and maintenance costs once they move in.”
Schemes to take advantage of
“Lifetime ISAs remain one of the most valuable tools available to first-time buyers, particularly for those planning ahead,” Leanne Barlow states. “There are also a number of competitive 95% mortgage products currently available, allowing buyers to purchase with a smaller deposit than many people expect.”
“There are still several valuable schemes and opportunities available that many buyers overlook. Shared ownership continues to help buyers enter the market with smaller deposits,” Diana Soldan, Head of Business Development, Victor Michael Estate Agents shares. “In East London particularly, regeneration areas continue to offer opportunities where buyers can secure comparatively better value while benefiting from future infrastructure improvements and long-term growth. The key is awareness. Many buyers simply do not know what support is available to them, which is why professional guidance is more important than ever.”
Frances Bowling provides insight, “Yes, there are several options first-time buyers should explore, although eligibility will depend on personal circumstances. The permanent Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, introduced from July 2025, is designed to support the availability of 91% to 95% loan-to-value mortgages, helping eligible buyers purchase with a deposit as small as 5%."
"Shared Ownership can also be worth considering for buyers who cannot yet afford to purchase 100% of a property. It allows buyers to purchase a share of a home and pay rent on the remaining share, with the option to increase ownership later. "
"First-time buyers should also be aware of Stamp Duty Land Tax relief. From 1 April 2025, first-time buyers in England purchasing properties worth £500,000 or less pay 0% SDLT on the first £300,000 and 5% on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000."
"Locally, the most important step is to speak to both a mortgage adviser and a local estate agent early. In Doncaster, affordability is still more achievable than in many parts of the UK, but the best-value homes can move quickly.”
How estate agents can best support first-time buyers
Lisa Frost reflects, “Education is incredibly important for first-time buyers, many of whom are unfamiliar with the process. Estate agents can help by hosting dedicated first-time buyer events or open days, guiding buyers through the stages of a transaction, and encouraging them to speak with trusted mortgage advisers and solicitors from the outset.”
“Good communication is essential throughout the buying journey,” Samantha Weatherill, Sales Progressor at Charnock Bates, declares. “Buyers should stay in regular contact with both their estate agent and solicitor to understand timescales and next steps. Estate agents can also add value by recommending experienced solicitors and conveyancers rather than simply the cheapest option, as strong professional support can make the process much smoother.”
Frances Bowling shares, “Estate agents have a real responsibility to make the process feel less intimidating for first-time buyers. For many people buying their first home, the terminology alone can feel overwhelming: Agreement in Principle, conveyancing, searches, surveys, exchange, completion, chain, leasehold and freehold. Agents should take the time to explain each stage clearly rather than assuming buyers already understand it.
“At Moss Properties, we believe first-time buyers need practical guidance, not pressure. That means helping them understand what happens before and after an offer is accepted, what documents they may need, how long the process may take, and what costs to expect beyond the deposit.
“We recently held a First-Time Buyer Evening in Doncaster, designed specifically to give local buyers clear, straightforward advice in a relaxed environment. The event covered mortgages, deposits, the buying process, common mistakes to avoid and the importance of getting prepared early. It also gave buyers the opportunity to ask questions directly to local property and mortgage professionals. Events like this are important because they remove some of the uncertainty and help buyers feel more confident before they start viewing homes or making offers.
“A well-informed buyer is usually a more confident buyer, and that benefits everyone involved in the transaction.”
What to do when you feel priced out of your ideal area/property
Alex Simmons suggests it’s worth it to, “Consider up and coming areas. You might not be able to buy in your desired postcode initially but often I’m amazed how people discount areas that are perfect for them. If you speak face to face with a good local independent agent, they can advise on where to consider and areas that are on the up. Don’t believe everything you find on a web search! Seek out experienced professionals and take advantage of their years of experience. Remember, an experienced estate agent will have seen the market rise and fall many times over and will have also seen people win and lose. Tap into that valuable resource, its free and could open up many possibilities.”
“Looking at neighbouring or less established areas can often reveal much better value for money,” Richard Walker, Senior Residential Valuer at Charnock Bates, suggests. “Areas can change rapidly over time, and locations once overlooked can become highly desirable in just a few years. Buying in an up-and-coming area can therefore be both a practical and strategic move.”
Diana Soldan comments, “Many buyers today feel priced out of their ideal location or property type. While this can be discouraging, flexibility is often key to getting onto the ladder sooner.
“Sometimes this means expanding the search radius slightly, considering properties requiring cosmetic improvement, starting with a smaller property, looking at emerging areas with future growth potential, prioritising long-term investment over immediate perfection.”
Upcoming trends – what’s next for first-time buyers
Alex Simmons shares a positive outlook, “The good news for first time buyers is that many long-term landlords have decided that now is a good time to sell their rental properties. Often these homes are ideal as your first buy and the sellers are looking for a smooth sale so selling to a chain free first-time buyer can be very attractive. I see this trend of landlords selling up continuing, hopefully freeing up more property stock for first time buyers.”
“The biggest challenge will continue to be affordability. Even where property prices are more accessible, buyers still have to manage deposit saving, mortgage rates, living costs and lender affordability assessments, Frances Bowling reflects. “That said, there are some positives. Mortgage products are becoming more varied, and some lenders are looking at more flexible affordability options for the right applicants. The permanent Mortgage Guarantee Scheme should also support the continued availability of 95% mortgages for buyers with smaller deposits."
"In areas like Doncaster, first-time buyers may continue to benefit from comparatively lower average house prices than many other parts of the UK. However, competition for well-priced starter homes is likely to remain strong."
"One trend I expect to continue is that buyers who are prepared early will have a major advantage. Those with mortgage advice, an Agreement in Principle, deposit evidence and a clear understanding of costs will be in the strongest position.”
Katie Griffin shares a similar view, “Affordability will remain the key challenge. Even where house price growth is steadier, the combination of deposits, interest rates, rents and day-to-day living costs makes saving difficult for many first-time buyers. On the positive side, lenders are continuing to look at more flexible products and higher loan-to-value options, which may help some buyers with strong affordability but smaller deposits. For example, several lenders have been exploring low-deposit mortgage products, but buyers still need to be careful not to overextend themselves. The challenge for 2026 will be balancing ambition with affordability. Getting on the ladder is important, but staying financially comfortable once you are there matters just as much.”
Advice every first-time buyer should hear in 2026
“Check that the budget you are setting for your first home fits your affordability,” Alex Simmons instructs. “There are a lot of costs associated with running your home to consider such as council tax, insurance and utilities. Make sure that you buy a suitable property within a budget where you will still be able to afford to live each month after your mortgage, bills and essentials are covered. Buying in a better value postcode would be one way to keep the purchase on budget.”
Katie Griffin suggests it is best to, “Get prepared before you fall in love with a property. Speak to a mortgage adviser, understand your budget, know your deposit position, choose a solicitor early and be honest with yourself about what you can afford. The buyers who move fastest are not always the ones with the biggest budgets — they are often the ones who have done the groundwork. In today’s market, preparation is power.”
John Newhouse, Managing Director of Roseberry Newhouse, provides some valuable advice: “Be prepared. Once you see a property you would like to offer on, we will ask for proof of funding, ID and your solicitors’ details. If you have your mortgage in principle arranged and a solicitor chosen it will boost your chances of securing the property. Competition for properties is hot so the more prepared you are the better your chances.
Getting onto the property ladder in 2026 is not without its challenges, but one message comes through clearly from our Members: preparation makes a difference.
Whether it is understanding your finances early, building a realistic savings plan, exploring available schemes, staying flexible on location, or seeking professional advice sooner rather than later, first-time buyers have more options than they may realise.
For many people, the first home will not be the forever home - it is the starting point. The key is focusing on what is achievable now, making informed decisions, and taking practical steps towards long-term goals rather than waiting for the “perfect” opportunity.
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