All mortgage servicesBuying your first home

First-time buyer mortgage advice, explained clearly

Get help understanding deposits, affordability, agreements in principle and the steps from your first viewing to your mortgage application.

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Overview

A calmer route into your first mortgage

Buying for the first time can feel like a lot of new language at once: deposit, affordability, credit checks, solicitor updates and surveys. AJM helps you understand what each stage means, what is worth doing early, and what can wait until you have found a property. The aim is to help you make steady decisions without rushing into an application before the basics are ready.

Before you apply

What to understand and prepare

Key points

  • How much deposit you have saved and whether any gifted deposit needs to be documented.
  • How lenders may look at your income, commitments, credit file and regular spending.
  • Whether an agreement in principle would help you view properties with more confidence.
  • The extra buying costs to plan for, including legal fees, valuation costs and moving costs.

Documents that may help

  • Recent payslips or income evidence, plus latest bank statements.
  • Proof of deposit and any gifted deposit details, if family are helping.
  • Photo ID, address history and basic employment information.

How AJM helps

  • Agreement in principle
  • Deposit and affordability guidance
Practical guidance

Common questions about first-time buyer mortgages

Do I need an agreement in principle before viewing homes?

It is not always mandatory, but it can help you understand a realistic budget and show estate agents that you have started the mortgage process.

When should I speak to AJM?

If you are unsure which route fits, AJM can review the basics and point you towards the next sensible step.