From Rent to Repayment: A Guide to Making the Leap to Homeownership
- Aimee Atkinson
- 6d
- 25 min read
Updated: 5d
Renting has its moments. No boiler to worry about, no roof tiles to replace, and a landlord (hopefully) just a phone call away. But after a while, it’s natural to start asking: am I just paying off someone else’s mortgage?
If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home but feel overwhelmed by the process, the costs, or even just the jargon, welcome to our insights. You’re in exactly the right place.
At Delta Mortgages, we’ve helped countless first-time buyers go from “how does this even work?” to “we’ve just had the offer accepted!” And we know that making the leap from renting to owning isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about confidence, clarity, and knowing someone’s in your corner.
This insight is designed to give you all of that. You’ll find clear answers to the questions people actually ask (no waffle, no filler), practical tips to boost your borrowing power, and a simple step-by-step guide to get mortgage ready, without the stress.
So, whether you're six months from applying or just flirting with Rightmove on your lunch break, let’s walk through the journey together. The view from the homeowner’s side? Worth it.
Is It Better to Rent or Buy a Home?
If you’re currently renting and wondering whether you’re missing a trick, you’re not alone. Rising rents, unpredictable landlords, and the dream of “somewhere that’s actually mine” has more and more people weighing up whether it’s time to buy.
But is buying always the better option? Not necessarily. It depends on your situation, your plans, and how comfortable you feel taking the plunge.
Here’s a clear-eyed look at the pros and cons of renting versus buying your first home:
Renting vs Buying a Home: Pros and Cons
Factor | Renting | Buying |
Flexibility | Easy to move with short notice. | Less flexible – selling takes time and involves fees. |
Responsibility | Repairs and maintenance are your landlord’s problem. | You're responsible for all upkeep and repairs. |
Monthly Payments | Monthly Payments Rent doesn’t build equity—it’s money out the door. | Mortgage payments help you build ownership over time. |
Security | Tenancy agreements can end unexpectedly. | Greater stability and control over your living situation. |
Freedom | Limited ability to decorate or make changes | Total freedom to decorate, renovate, and personalise. |
Financial Potential | Financial Potential No financial return—rent is a sunk cost. | Property may rise in value, helping grow your wealth. |
Upfront Costs | Typically lower—just a deposit and moving costs. | Higher—deposit, legal fees, stamp duty, surveys (though relief may apply). |
So, what’s the answer?
Buying might not be for everyone right now, and that’s perfectly okay. But if you’re settled in your job, tired of rent increases, and ready to plant roots, it could be the right time to take that next step. Especially with a bit of help.
And that’s where we come in at Delta Mortgages. Whether you’re ready to buy or still figuring it all out, we’re here to chat it through. No jargon, no pressure, just genuinely helpful mortgage advice.
Am I Ready to Buy a Home?
For a lot of first-time buyers, especially those currently renting, this is the question. Not just “Can I afford it?”, but “Am I really ready for this?”
The truth is, you don’t need to have a perfect credit score or a suitcase full of savings to start your journey onto the property ladder. But you do need to know where you stand and what lenders will be looking for.
Let’s help you break it down.
You don’t need to be ‘perfect’, but you do need to be prepared
Lenders aren’t expecting perfection, they’re looking for reliability. If you’ve got a steady income, a bit of a deposit, and you’re managing your finances sensibly, you might be more mortgage-ready than you think.
If you’re currently renting and never miss a payment, that’s already a strong signal. In fact, some lenders now accept rental history as part of your affordability evidence.
So no, you don’t need to be debt-free, earn six figures or eat beans on toast for the next five years. But being organised and realistic goes a long way.
A closer look at what lenders care about
Let’s say you called our mortgage brokers tomorrow (details here by the way) and said “I think I’m ready to buy a house, what happens next?”
We’d walk through a few key areas with you:
Income: Are you employed, self-employed, on a fixed-term contract, or a mix of all three? Each is fine. Lenders just need to understand the shape of your earnings. You can find out more about self-employed mortgages here)
Outgoings: Regular expenses like credit card payments, car finance or childcare are factored in to check what you can comfortably afford.
Deposit: 5% is often the minimum, but a bigger deposit (10%, 15%) can unlock better mortgage deals. If you’re still saving for that deposit, that’s okay—we’ll talk through your buying a home timeline.
Credit history: Your credit history doesn’t need to be spotless, but it helps if you’re up-to-date with bills and not over-reliant on short-term credit.
None of this is about catching you out. It’s about showing lenders that you’re in a stable enough place to take this next step.
But remember, your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Are you still renting? That doesn’t hold you back
A lot of renters assume they won’t be taken seriously because they’re not already on the property ladder. But you have one big advantage: no chain. That makes you a more attractive buyer and gives you flexibility in your move.
Plus, if you’ve been paying rent reliably for 12+ months, some lenders may now use that record to boost your mortgage application. Another reason why your renting history is more valuable than you think.
But, all mortgages are subject to the applicant(s) meeting the eligibility criteria of lenders.
Not quite there yet? You’re still in a good place
Even if you're not quite ready to apply, understanding where you stand means you’re in a stronger position than most. And once you know what’s needed, from deposit size to improving your credit score, you can make a plan.
And that’s where we come in. At Delta Mortgages, our mortgage brokers don’t just step in once you’ve got all your paperwork lined up.
We’re here from the start, helping you map the route before you even book your first viewing and ensure you receive mortgage advice suitable for your needs and circumstances.
What Do I Need to Get a Mortgage as a First-Time Buyer?
If you’re used to renting, getting a mortgage can feel like a big leap into the unknown. Suddenly, there’s talk of affordability checks, “source of deposit” declarations, and something called a mortgage in principle that everyone seems to nod at like they know what it means.
But once you understand what lenders actually want to see, the process becomes much more straightforward. We like that!
And when you’ve got a mortgage broker (like us) doing the legwork, it becomes a lot less stressful too. We like that more!
Let’s walk through the key things you’ll need to get that all-important first-time buyer mortgage approved.
Proof of income – what you earn, and how you earn it
Lenders need to know that your income is stable, regular, and likely to continue. That doesn’t mean it has to be traditional, just explainable.
If you’re employed:
You’ll usually need your last three months’ payslips and your latest P60.
A contract or letter from your employer can also help if you’ve just started a new role.
If you’re looking for a self-employed mortgage or a contractor mortgage:
Most lenders will want to see two years’ worth of accounts or tax returns (SA302s).
Some will work with just one year’s records, especially if you’ve recently gone self-employed in the same industry.
If you take income via dividends or salary, lenders may assess both.
The key here is clarity. If your income is consistent, even if it’s from multiple sources, our mortgage advisers can help package it in a way lenders understand.
And if you're based in Bournemouth, Poole or anywhere in Dorset, the New Forest or Hampshire (and further afield), we’re well-versed in helping people in a range of roles, teachers, NHS staff, freelancers, consultants, make sense of what counts as income.
But don’t forget, your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Understanding your outgoings – it’s not just what you earn
A healthy income is great, but lenders also want to know how much of it you’ve got left at the end of each month. This is where they look at:
Loans and credit card balances
Car finance or PCP agreements
Regular monthly payments (like childcare or maintenance)
Subscriptions (yes, your Spotify and Prime all count!)
Don’t panic—they’re not looking for perfection, just a sense of whether your new mortgage will be affordable alongside your current lifestyle.
Your deposit – how much, where from, and what it unlocks
As a first-time buyer, the minimum deposit you’ll usually need is 5% of the property’s purchase price. So if you’re buying a £200,000 flat, you’ll need at least £10,000 as a deposit.
But more deposit = more choice. Here's why:
A 10% deposit gives access to more competitive mortgage deals.
A 15–20% deposit puts you in a stronger position with lenders and lowers your monthly repayments.
A 25% deposit or more can unlock the very best rates.
Lenders also want to know where the money is coming from. That might be:
Your savings (from a standard account or a Lifetime ISA)
A gift from a family member (you’ll need a gifted deposit letter)
Equity from a previous sale (less common for first-time buyers, but possible)
If you’re still working towards your deposit, that’s okay. Part of our job is helping you understand what’s achievable now and what could be possible six or twelve months from now.
Your credit history – don’t panic, just be honest
Your credit score is part of the picture, but it’s not the only part. Lenders will look at your credit history to check:
That you’re registered on the electoral roll
That you’ve managed previous borrowing responsibly
That there aren’t any unpaid defaults, missed payments, or County Court Judgments (CCJs)
You can check your credit report for free with agencies like Experian, Equifax or TransUnion. And if something doesn’t look quite right, or you’re not sure what it means, we’ll talk you through it.
💡 Top tip: Some lenders are more flexible than others. If your credit file isn’t squeaky clean, our mortgage brokers work with specialist lenders who look at the bigger picture.
A mortgage in principle – your homebuying head start
A mortgage in principle (MIP)* is a written estimate from a lender confirming how much they’re likely to lend you, based on what you’ve told them.
It’s not a guarantee, but it’s incredibly useful because:
It shows estate agents and sellers that you’re serious.
It gives you a realistic budget to house-hunt with.
It helps speed things up when you’re ready to make an offer.
Getting a mortgage in principle doesn’t commit you to anything, and it won’t harm your credit score. It may leave a footprint on your report, but we always check in advance whether it’s a soft or hard check. At Delta Mortgages, we can often turn one around within a day, and we’ll explain exactly what it means and how to use it.
* This is also known as an Agreement in Principle (AIP) or a Decision in Principle (DIP). Head over to our A-Z Mortgage Jargon Buster for more fun!
How Much Can I Borrow as a First-Time Buyer?
If you’ve ever used an online mortgage calculator and wondered whether it’s even close to real life, you’re not alone. Figuring out how much you can actually borrow as a first-time buyer isn’t just about multiplying your salary. It’s a mix of income, commitments, credit history, and how each lender views your situation.
So, let’s demystify it for you. Here’s how borrowing power is really calculated, and how you can strengthen yours.
It starts with your income—then gets more specific
As a very rough guide, most lenders will offer between 4 and 4.5 times your annual income. In some cases, particularly if you’ve got a larger deposit, a clean credit history, and no debts, it could stretch to 5 or even 5.5 times (but it’s always best to check with an experienced mortgage broker first before banking on it).
Here’s how that might look based on a 4.5x multiple:
£30,000 income → £135,000 mortgage (approx.)
£45,000 income → £202,500 mortgage (approx.)
£60,000 income → £270,000 mortgage (approx.)
But that’s just the start. Lenders don’t lend based on income alone, they’ll dig into your outgoings too.
What can affect how much you can borrow?
You could earn the same salary as someone else and still be offered a very different mortgage amount. So why is this? Because lenders also look at:
Your monthly expenses – Loan repayments, credit cards, childcare costs, subscriptions.
Your existing debts – The more you owe, the less they’ll lend.
Your deposit size – A bigger deposit can reduce perceived risk and increase what you can borrow.
Your credit profile – A healthy credit history opens more lending options.
How many applicants – Applying jointly with a partner, sibling or parent can boost affordability.
In short: two people earning £40,000 a year might be offered very different borrowing amounts depending on their financial commitments and credit health.
How to improve your borrowing potential
If you’re not quite hitting the borrowing number you need, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to improve it.
In our experience, these are some of the most effective steps:
Reduce your debts – Even clearing a small credit card balance or paying it off each month in full can help.
Boost your deposit – Taking that little bit of extra time to save even an extra few thousand can unlock better lending terms. (Take a look at Loan to Value Rates for further details).
Cut back on discretionary spending – Lenders look at bank statements to understand your habits. A few months of dialled-back spending can improve your profile.
Apply jointly – With another person’s income, your combined affordability increases.
Speak to a mortgage broker – We know which lenders are more generous with income multiples, and we’ll match you accordingly.
This is where mortgage advice really counts. At Delta Mortgages, we’ll run your numbers through multiple lender criteria (not just one) to show you what’s possible based on your actual financial picture, not just a website estimate.
What Are the Costs of Buying (and Owning) a Home?
Renting can feel wonderfully straightforward—pay your rent, maybe some bills, and you're good to go. Buying a home brings more moving parts, both up front and month to month. But it also gives you something big in return: stability, freedom, and an asset with your name on it.
Let’s walk through what first-time buyers in the UK can realistically expect… without the waffle.
Your deposit – and what it unlocks
This is the big one. As a first-time buyer, you’ll usually need a minimum deposit of 5% of the property’s value. That means if you’re buying a £250,000 flat in Bournemouth or Poole, your starting point is around £12,500. But if you can stretch to 10% or even 15%, you’ll open the door to better mortgage rates and potentially reduce your monthly repayments.
Where your deposit comes from also matters. Lenders will ask to see evidence, whether it’s your own savings, help from family, or a Lifetime ISA, and our mortgage advisers will help you get it all in order.
Mortgage fees – what to expect (and how to avoid them)
Some mortgage deals come fee-free. Others don’t. You might be charged an arrangement fee to secure a specific rate, or a valuation fee if the lender isn’t offering one for free.
But we’ll help you compare not just the interest rates, but the true cost of the deal over time. Sometimes paying a small fee upfront can save you hundreds over the life of the mortgage. Sometimes it’s best avoided altogether. We’ll do the maths, so you don’t have to. And, believe it or not, you might just enjoy it.
Legal costs – the bit nobody gets excited about
Conveyancing might not be the most thrilling part of buying your first home, but it’s absolutely essential. Your solicitor (or conveyancer) handles the legal side, from checking contracts to registering your ownership.
Costs typically sit between £1,000 and £2,000 depending on the complexity, but a good lawyer will always agree the fee up front. To top all off, if you don’t have a preferred lawyer our mortgage brokers know plenty of great ones who keep things clear and efficient, not cloaked in legal mystery.
Stamp duty – the first-time buyer exemption
There’s some good news here. As of 1st April 2025, if your first home costs less than £300,000, you won’t pay a penny in stamp duty. If it falls between £300,001 and £500,000, you’ll only pay 5% on the bit from £300,001 to £500,000.
For properties purchased over £500,000, the first time buyer discount will not apply. You will pay standard stamp duty rates, which can be seen at https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax.
It’s one of the few perks reserved just for first-time buyers—and it can save you thousands. If you’re unsure what you’d pay, we can calculate it for you in seconds.
Our guidance is based on current legislation as at April 2025 and may be subject to change.
The hidden extras – and how to budget for them
Even after the big milestones are ticked off, there are some quiet costs that tend to sneak in: van hire for moving day, a few bits of flat-pack furniture, or the unexpected realisation that you now need curtain poles, a hoover, a toolbox and some paintbrushes.
They’re not huge individually, but collectively, they add up. That’s why we always suggest leaving yourself a small buffer budget so you can settle in without stress.
Monthly costs – what changes once you own
When you become a homeowner, your monthly outgoings shift slightly. Rent disappears, but in its place comes your mortgage payment, usually over a 25 to 35-year term.
Depending on your mortgage type and deposit size, this could be more, less, or roughly the same as your rent. You'll also be responsible for things like buildings insurance and maintenance, but you’ll have control, stability, and no more awkward calls to the landlord about the boiler.
What Support Is Available for First-Time Buyers?
Buying your first home is a big financial step. But the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. There’s a surprising amount of support out there, designed specifically to help people like you get on the property ladder sooner, with a little less strain.
Whether you’re saving for a deposit, looking to boost your borrowing power, or just want to know what’s out there beyond the bank of Mum and Dad, here’s what you should know.
Lifetime ISAs – a government bonus for doing the right thing
The Lifetime ISA (often called a LISA*) is one of the most generous schemes available to first-time buyers. You can save up to £4,000 a year into it, and the government will add a 25% bonus on top, up to £1,000 every year. That’s free money towards your first home (but there are certain criteria to take into account).
You’ll need to have the account open for at least 12 months before using it to buy, and the property you’re buying must be under £450,000. But if you’re early in your journey and not sure where to start, opening a LISA is a smart first move.
*Not to be confused with our Lisa (who is equally lovely to first time buyers).
95% mortgages – when your deposit is small, but your ambition isn’t
If saving for a large deposit feels out of reach, you’re not alone, and you’re not out of options. A number of lenders now offer 95% mortgages for first-time buyers, meaning you only need a 5% deposit to get started.
Some of these are backed by a government scheme designed to give lenders more confidence and help more people onto the ladder. We’ll let you know which lenders are offering them and how to make yourself an ideal candidate.
100% mortgages – a possible option if you’re renting now
In a few specific situations, a 100% mortgage might be an option, particularly if you’ve got a solid rental history and no deposit saved. These mortgages are rare and come with strict eligibility criteria (like having paid rent consistently for at least a year and securing a reference from your landlord).
But if this sounds like you, we’ll explore whether this is a viable path, and talk you through the risks and rewards with total transparency.
Gifted deposits – yes, help from family is allowed
Getting a bit of help from parents or close family members is incredibly common among first-time buyers. In fact, it’s so common there’s a name for it: the Bank of Mum and Dad.
If you’re lucky enough to have family who can support you with part (or all) of your deposit, lenders are fine with that—as long as the money is a gift, not a loan. They’ll usually ask for a signed letter confirming it’s not repayable and that the giver won’t own any share in the property.
Our mortgage brokers will happily help you get the paperwork sorted and keep things smooth on both sides.
Joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages – power in numbers
If your income on its own isn’t quite enough, but you have someone willing to support you, like a parent or partner, this type of mortgage might be a fit.
It allows you to apply with someone else’s income taken into account, even though the property will be in your name alone. It’s a great option if affordability is just out of reach and you’re not ready (or don’t want) to co-own.
This is where having a broker makes a real difference. We’ll talk through your family setup, your goals, and whether this kind of arrangement feels right for you.
What Type of Mortgage Is Right for a First-Time Buyer?
When you're moving from renting to owning, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing the right type of mortgage. It can feel like a bit of a minefield at first—fixed or variable, tracker or offset, two-year or five?
But don’t worry. Most first-time buyers don’t need to understand every mortgage on the market. What matters is finding the one that suits you, your budget, your goals, and your tolerance for change.
Here’s what you need to know about the most common types.
Fixed rate mortgages – for peace of mind and predictable payments
A fixed rate mortgage does exactly what it says on the tin: it fixes your interest rate for a set period—usually two, three or five years. That means your monthly repayments won’t change, even if interest rates go up during that time.
It’s a popular choice for first-time buyers, especially if you’re working to a clear monthly budget and don’t want any surprises. You’ll know exactly what’s going out each month, which can make it easier to manage your other expenses.
When your fixed term ends, you’ll usually be moved onto the lender’s standard variable rate—but don’t worry. We’ll get in touch before that happens and help you explore your remortgage options, so you stay on the best deal available.
Variable rate mortgages – more flexibility, more risk
Variable rate mortgages are a little more fluid. Your repayments can go up or down depending on changes to your lender’s rate, which is usually influenced by the Bank of England base rate.
They’re typically less popular with first-time buyers, simply because budgeting becomes a little less predictable. But they can work well if you’re comfortable with some fluctuation, or if you're planning to sell or remortgage relatively soon and don’t want early repayment charges.
If you’re unsure, we’ll talk it through together. There’s no pressure, just straightforward mortgage advice based on your goals and your circumstances.
Tracker mortgages – following the Bank of England’s lead
Tracker mortgages are a type of variable mortgage, but instead of being set by your lender, they follow the Bank of England base rate, plus a fixed percentage. So if the base rate goes up, so does your mortgage, and vice versa.
They can offer lower initial rates than some fixed deals, but they come with the same caveat: you’ll need to be comfortable with your repayments moving up and down.
If you like the idea of riding the market, and have room in your budget for occasional increases, it’s worth considering. We’ll help you weigh it up properly so you can decide with confidence.
Which mortgage is best for you?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Your ideal mortgage will depend on how long you plan to stay in your new home, how steady your income is, and how comfortable you feel with risk.
What we can say is this: most of the first-time buyers we work with in Bournemouth, Poole and across Dorset choose fixed rate mortgages to begin with. They offer stability at a time when everything else feels new—and that’s often exactly what you need.
If you’re still feeling unsure, that’s completely normal. Seriously, we see it every day. Our mortgage advisers are here to talk it through and explain the options in plain English, so you feel confident making a choice that suits you, not just the lender.
What Happens After You Get a Mortgage in Principle?
Getting your mortgage in principle is a big moment—it tells you (and estate agents) that you’re financially ready to buy. But it’s also the point where things start to feel real. So, what happens next?
Here’s how the process unfolds from that first thumbs-up to the moment you’re picking up the keys.
Start house hunting (with confidence)
Once you’ve got your mortgage in principle, you’ll know roughly what you can afford—and you’ll be taken seriously when booking viewings or making offers. It’s the signal to estate agents that you’re not just browsing—you’re ready to buy.
And here’s the good bit: being a first-time buyer means you have no chain, which is a huge plus. Sellers love that. It often makes your offer more attractive, even if someone else is offering a little more.
Make an offer on a property you love
When you find ‘the one’ (or at least ‘the one for now’), you’ll work with the estate agent to make a formal offer. Don’t worry, we’ll help you decide what’s sensible and how to position it.
Once it’s accepted, things start moving quickly.
Apply for your full mortgage
Now it’s time to move from ‘in principle’ to the full application. We’ll take care of submitting everything to the lender, packaging up your documents, and chasing anything that needs chasing.
At this stage, the lender will also arrange a valuation of the property. This confirms that what you’re paying lines up with what the property’s actually worth. It’s a normal part of the process, and nothing to worry about.
Instruct a solicitor to handle the legal work
You’ll need a solicitor or conveyancer to manage the legal side of the purchase. That includes checking the contract, conducting searches (like local planning or environmental risks), and registering the property in your name.
We can introduce you to trusted solicitors who are easy to work with and don’t talk in riddles.
Exchange contracts and agree a completion date
Once your mortgage is approved and the legal work is done, your solicitor will arrange the exchange of contracts. This is the point where the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll agree a completion date usually a week or two later—and start making moving plans.
It's also when you’ll pay your deposit to your solicitor, ready for transfer on completion day.
Completion day—collect the keys and move in
This is the day everything becomes official! Funds are transferred, contracts are finalised, and you get the keys to your new home.
Your first home. 🥳🎉
It's an incredible moment, and yes, even if you’re not the sentimental type, it often comes with a lump in the throat. The good kind.
What Do I Need to Budget for After I’ve Moved In?
Once you’ve collected the keys and opened the bubbly (or just collapsed onto the nearest unpacked box), you’re officially a homeowner. But while the mortgage may be sorted and the paperwork behind you, there are a few new responsibilities that come with the title.
Let’s look at what you’ll need to budget for month to month, so you feel in control, not caught out.
Your monthly mortgage payment
This is the big one, and it will have been explained clearly during your application. Your payment depends on how much you borrowed, your interest rate, and your mortgage term (usually 25–35 years).
If you chose a fixed rate mortgage, this will stay the same for the duration of the fixed term, often two, three or five years. That consistency can be a huge relief when you're managing your first home budget.
Buildings insurance – a requirement, not a nice-to-have
Before you complete your purchase, you’ll need to have buildings insurance in place. It’s usually a condition of your mortgage and covers the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home if something major goes wrong, like a fire, flood, or structural issue.
It doesn’t have to cost the earth, and we can help you compare providers. The important thing is that it’s active from the day you complete, not the day you move in.
Contents insurance – strongly recommended
Not essential in the eyes of your lender, but highly recommended in the real world. Contents insurance protects the stuff inside your home, everything from your sofa and TV to laptops, jewellery and kitchen appliances.
You can often bundle this with your buildings insurance for a better deal. And if you’ve just furnished your place from scratch, it’s definitely worth it.
Maintenance and repairs – now it’s on you
There’s no landlord now, which means if something breaks, it’s your name on the callout fee. That could be a leaking tap, a blown fuse, or a boiler that suddenly decides it’s had enough.
While you don’t need to set aside a fortune, it’s sensible to have a small ‘home maintenance fund’ in your monthly budget. Even just £25–£50 a month can soften the blow if something crops up unexpectedly.
Utilities and council tax – new address, same bills
You’ll likely be used to paying utilities already, but if you were in a rented property where bills were included, it’s worth factoring them in now.
That means:
Electricity and gas
Water
Broadband
Council tax (which varies by location and property band)
If you’re in Bournemouth, Poole, or anywhere in Dorset, we can help you estimate likely costs based on the type of home you’re buying.
Mortgage protection – optional, but worth a conversation
This is one of those things people often put off. But if you’d struggle to cover your mortgage if you lost your job or became seriously ill, it’s worth considering protection insurance.
There are lots of options—from income protection to critical illness cover—and they can provide real peace of mind. We’ll talk you through what’s worth having and what isn’t, based on your circumstances. No pressure, no scare tactics.
If you’re still renting but dreaming of owning, or already saving and wondering what’s possible, now’s the perfect time to find out.
At Delta Mortgages, we specialise in helping first-time buyers take that next step with confidence. No pressure. No jargon. Just clear answers, honest advice, and lovely people who know what they’re doing.
We’ll talk you through your options, show you what’s affordable, and handle the heavy lifting when you’re ready.
Start your first home journey with a quick chat.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. That’s what we’re here for.
Top Tips to Speed Up the Timeline to Buying a House
Let’s be honest—no one enjoys waiting. And while delays in the house buying process aren’t always avoidable, there are plenty of ways to help keep things on track.
Chains, surveys, legal paperwork, valuation reports… all of these can extend your timeline. But a bit of preparation and the right support can make a noticeable difference. Here’s how to help your move go more smoothly—and potentially more quickly.
1. Be Ready with Your Research
Before you book viewings, take time to research the areas you’re considering and create a shortlist of property types that suit your budget. Having a clear picture of what you’re looking for means that if one deal falls through (and sometimes they do), you’re not back to square one.
It’s easy to become emotionally attached to a dream home—but keeping an open mind will give you more options and flexibility. That often translates to quicker decision-making, faster negotiations, and less stress if plans change.
2. Choose Your Services Wisely
From estate agents and mortgage lenders to surveyors and conveyancers, your service providers will have a direct impact on how quickly things progress. Some are great at communicating, chasing documents, and resolving hiccups. Others, less so.
Take time to research:
Your mortgage broker or adviser
Your chosen lender
Solicitors or conveyancers
Surveying firms
You don’t need to overthink every choice—but look for professionals with solid reputations, clear communication, and experience working with first-time buyers. The smoother they operate, the smoother your experience.
3. Pay Attention to Reviews
If you’ve ever bought anything online, you know how useful a genuine review can be—and choosing a mortgage adviser is no different.
If you see a pattern of poor communication or frequent delays in a firm’s reviews, that’s usually a red flag. On the other hand, providers with consistent 5-star feedback—especially for responsiveness and clarity—are likely to keep your timeline moving.
Look for reviews that mention first-time buyers specifically, and don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for recommendations.
4. Use a Mortgage Broker (And Use Them Early)
If you want to fast-track the fiddly bits, a good mortgage broker is worth their weight in admin forms. They know the lenders who move quickly, the ones who drag their heels, and which paperwork will set off alarm bells before you’ve even clicked “submit.”
Working with an experienced mortgage broker in Dorset—ideally someone who speaks fluent human, not just mortgage jargon—can genuinely shave weeks off your timeline. Here’s how:
They (we) search the whole market for deals that suit you—not just one lender’s options
They’ll (we’ll) tell you exactly what documents to prep, and when
They (we) spot hiccups before they become hold-ups
They (we) chase things so you don’t have to
Think of them (us😉) as your calm, capable co-pilot. You’re still in control of the journey, but they’ll make sure you don’t take a wrong turn, forget your passport, or end up parked in a cul-de-sac of lender delays.
At Delta Mortgages, we know that no one wants to spend their evenings on hold to a bank. We’ll do the chasing, checking, comparing and communicating, so you can focus on planning your housewarming instead.
Frequently Asked Questions for First Time Buyers
We’ve worked with hundreds of first-time buyers—from spreadsheet lovers to the completely confused—and we hear a lot of the same questions, especially early on. So, if you’re wondering whether something is a “silly question”, the answer is probably no. It’s probably one of these:
Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?
Possibly—yes. It depends on what’s on your credit file, how long ago it happened, and how you’ve managed things since. Some lenders specialise in working with buyers who’ve had a few blips. We’ll look at your credit history and let you know where you stand—and what your options are.
Do I need a solicitor or conveyancer?
Yes, you’ll need a legal professional to handle the paperwork, property searches and contracts. You can choose your own, or we can recommend one we trust who speaks like a human and doesn’t take ages to reply.
How long does it take to buy a home once my offer is accepted?
On average, 8 to 15 weeks—though it can be faster if everyone in the chain is motivated and the paperwork moves quickly. First-time buyers often complete faster because they’re not waiting on someone to sell a property. Each transaction is different, and our mortgage advisers can guide you through the process specific to you.
Can I get a mortgage while I’m on maternity leave?
Yes, it’s possible. Lenders will look at your income before and after maternity leave and assess affordability based on the bigger picture. Some may need confirmation of your return-to-work date or salary. We’ve helped plenty of clients through this exact situation.
What if I’m self-employed or have a non-standard income?
If you’re looking for a self-employed mortgage or have non-standard income (for example you’re looking for mortgages for a contractor), that’s fine too.
You’ll usually need at least one year of accounts, sometimes two. We know which lenders are more flexible with freelancers, sole traders, and company directors—and we’ll make sure your application is tailored to how you actually earn.
Can I buy with someone else—even if they won’t live there?
Yes. A joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgage might be the answer. It allows a parent or partner to help you borrow more—without being named on the property title. It’s a useful option if your income alone doesn’t quite stretch far enough.
Have more questions – head on over to our Jargon Buster - Advice for First Time Home Buyers.
How Delta Mortgages Helps You - You’re Closer Than You Think
If buying your first home still feels like a distant dream, we get it. The leap from renting to owning can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with unfamiliar terms, big numbers, and a mountain of ‘what ifs’.
But you don’t have to do it alone, and you don’t have to know everything before you start.
Whether you’re six months away from applying or still working out your budget, the first step is simply understanding where you stand, and where you could be. That’s where we come in.
At Delta Mortgages, we work with first-time buyers across Bournemouth, Poole, Dorset and beyond, guiding them from uncertainty to clarity (and often, to keys in hand). We’ll help you find the right mortgage, explain every step in plain English, and keep things moving without adding to your stress.
You’re not just buying a home. You’re building a foundation.
And we’d love to help you lay the first brick.
Speak to a Mortgage Broker About Buying Your First Home
If you’re ready to take the next step, give me a call on 0303 0033 606 or drop me an email at aimee.atkinson@deltamortgages.co.uk for a free, no-obligation chat.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Dorset, a family moving home in Hampshire, or working with a mortgage broker in Berkshire, I’d love to hear about your plans and help you get everything moving smoothly.
NOTE: All mortgages are subject to the applicant(s) meeting the eligibility criteria of lenders.
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Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
