First time buyers

First time buyers are, by definition, generally at the bottom step of the ladder. Typically first time buyers require:

• Very high Loan To Value (LTV) - as they do not have large deposits.
• Extra Monies for home improvements
• Higher income multipliers as many first time buyers are at the early stages in their careers
• More mortgage advice than second time buyers or remortgage applicants.

We Know Mortgages Ltd strives to offer the best service to first time buyers and offers simple guide to first time buyers (below). The principles for a first time buyer remain the same irrelevant of market conditions.

First be 'Agreed in Principle (AIP)' by a mortgage lender. To obtain an AIP, a credit search is carried out taking all your personal details into consideration. Obtaining an AIP will indicate how much you can borrow (speak to one of our mortgage brokers for more information).

Some lenders are stricter than others; too many credit searches trying to gain a pass is not advised as each ‘search’ leaves a footmark on your file. Our mortgage brokers will advise this and initially obtaining a full credit report is recommended.

Once accepted, an AIP certificate will be issued.

Secondly You should really get stuck into the property hunt, searching through websites, newspapers, and estate agents. The more properties you see the better.

Short list your potential properties, arrange viewings (our mortgage advisors can help with this), and if the property is right for you, speak to your designated mortgage consultant for an opinion and then make an offer. Also it is advised to take a family member or friend with you when viewing for neutral opinions.

It is always advised to negotiate the property to get the right deal for you.

Finally, once your offer is accepted, the estate agent will generally require a copy of the AIP certificate and solicitors details. The mortgage consultant will be able to forward these details to the estate agent; and then arrange for a mortgage application to be completed. Mortgage surveys/valuations are generally carried out immediately.

New build mortgages; Shared Equity mortgages; Shared Ownership mortgages are also advised by our mortgage brokers based in Manchester.

If you require mortgage advice and you’re a first time buyer; please submit your details above and one of our mortgage brokers will call you. We Know Mortgages Ltd have access to thousands of mortgage products across the high street and building societies. We’ll guide you through the mortgage process from start to finish.