First Time Buyer
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Top Tips for First Time Buyers
Am I a First Time Buyer?
A First Time Buyer is anyone looking to buy their first home, which they intend to use as their primary residence.
Providing you’ve never owned a property before, you will be classified as a First Time Buyer.
Do I need an Agreement in Principle?
Whilst obtaining an Agreement in Principle, sometimes known as a decision in principle, is not essential, it can be very beneficial for First Time Buyers.
An Agreement in Principle is a conditional mortgage offer from a lender, prior to making your full application. It is not binding, as you can still choose to go with another lender. It’s also not an actual mortgage offer, as you still need to satisfy the lenders’ affordability criteria with your proof of income and circumstances.
As well as giving you a good idea of what properties you could afford, it can help to persuade sellers that you are a credible buyer when you come to make an offer.
How much can I borrow as a First Time Buyer?
Mortgage loans are calculated based on your financial circumstances, regardless of whether you are a First Time Buyer or not.
The amount you can borrow varies between lenders, but will generally be between three and five times your annual income. An agreement in principle can be a good way to determine this to prevent you from falling in love with a house that you can’t afford.
How can improving my credit score help?
Before approaching lenders, it’s important to look at your credit report and, where necessary, take steps to improve it, before you apply for a mortgage. This can both help your overall chance of acceptance and increase your chances of a competitive deal.
How to improve your credit score
- Ensure your address is accurate on all accounts in your name
- Check that your current name and address are on the electoral roll
- Stay within 50% of any credit limits on existing credit agreements
- Make all payments on time and in full for a year before the application
- A special credit builder credit card can be helpful to show yourself as a responsible borrower if your low score is a result of never having credit.
What help is available for First Time Buyers?
There are several first-time buyer schemes offered by the government to help people get on the property ladder. And several more offered by developers of new-build homes to help you on your way. But if you’re a first-time buyer, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
That’s where we come in!
What fees are involved with buying a home?
Arrangement fees
An administrative fee for the arrangement of the mortgage, known as the arrangement fee will be charged by most lenders and vary from one lender to the next.
Valuation fees
During the mortgage application process, the property is independently valued. You are accountable for these fees, which vary depending on the firm and level of valuation chosen.
Legal fees
A solicitor will arrange conveyancing and local authority searches on your new home, which you will also need to pay for.
Stamp Duty
https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax
How can Vivid Mortgages Brokers help First Time Buyers?
It’s a huge step to buy your first home. Trying to determine which type of mortgage is right for you can be daunting. Our Mortgage Brokers at Vivid Mortgages can both help you to find a lender offering competitive mortgage rates to First Time Buyers as well as providing assurance and guidance throughout the process.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.
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Why Vivid Mortgages
- Over 30 years experience in the industry
- Access to the whole mortgage market
- Available at a time to suit you
- We're real people with real lives
Your Advisers
Carly Breathwick CeMap
You can contact Carly directly by phone or email:
Soma Egan
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Call us FREE on 01234 567890
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