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How Can First-Time Buyers Get the Best Mortgage Deal?

January 30, 2025

How Can First-Time Buyers Get the Best Mortgage Deal?

Buying your first home is exciting, but choosing the right mortgage can feel overwhelming. The best approach is to compare multiple lenders, understand mortgage options, and use fee-free, whole-of-market advice. This ensures you get expert guidance at no cost and secure the best deal available.

Why First-Time Buyers Should Get Mortgage Advice

Many first-time buyers go straight to their bank, assuming they’ll get the best deal. However, banks only offer their own mortgage products, limiting your options. A whole-of-market mortgage broker compares multiple lenders, increasing your chances of approval and securing better rates.


A fee-free mortgage advisor provides expert advice without charging you anything. They explain mortgage types, check lender requirements, and guide you through the process. This saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you don’t overpay.

The Mortgage Process: How a Broker Secures the Best Deal

A good mortgage broker handles everything, ensuring you get the best deal with minimal hassle.

  1. Assess Your Financial Situation - Your income, expenses, and credit history determine affordability and borrowing options.
  2. Explain Mortgage Options – Fixed, variable, and tracker mortgages are discussed to match your financial needs.
  3. Search the Whole Market – A broker compares multiple lenders, not just one bank’s offers.
  4. Find Lenders That Suit Your Profile – They match you with lenders more likely to approve your mortgage application.
  5. Handle All the Paperwork – Applications, lender forms, and legal documents are managed to avoid delays.
  6. Monitor the Application Process – They track progress and liaise with lenders to ensure a smooth approval.
  7. Secure the Best Deal Before Completion – If better offers arise, they check if switching saves you money.



This ensures you get the best mortgage with the highest approval chance.

7 Benefits of Using an Independent Mortgage Advisor

  1. Access to the Whole Market – A broker compares mortgages from many lenders, not just one bank.
  2. Expert Guidance Throughout the Process – A good advisor explains everything clearly, making the process stress-free.
  3. Better Mortgage Rates and Deals – Brokers often secure better rates than what banks offer directly.
  4. Increased Chance of Approval – A broker matches you with lenders suited to your financial situation.
  5. Saves Time and Effort – They handle paperwork, lender communication, and negotiations for you.
  6. Advice Tailored to Your Needs – They recommend the best mortgage type based on your future plans.
  7. Fee-Free Advice with No Obligation – Many brokers work on lender commission, so you don’t pay anything.

Common First-Time Buyer Concerns

  1. What if I Can’t Get Approved for a Mortgage? - Many first-time buyers worry about rejection. A good mortgage advisor assesses your financial situation before applying. They match you with lenders suited to your income, credit history, and deposit. This increases approval chances by ensuring you apply to lenders most likely to say yes.
  2. How Much Deposit Do I Really Need? - A 5% deposit is often enough, but a bigger deposit secures better rates. An independent mortgage advisor checks government schemes, lender requirements, and first-time buyer deals. They help you understand what’s possible within your budget and how much you really need to save.
  3. Am I Getting the Best Deal, or Should I Shop Around? - Going straight to a bank limits your options. A whole-of-market mortgage broker compares many lenders, ensuring you don’t overpay. They secure the best rate for your situation, considering both mainstream banks and specialist lenders who might offer better terms.
  4. What If I Choose the Wrong Mortgage and Regret It? - Mortgages can feel overwhelming, but an expert broker explains every step. They help you choose the right deal based on your finances and future plans. With fee-free advice, there’s no risk—just guidance to make sure you secure a mortgage you’re confident in.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much deposit do I need as a first-time buyer?

    Most lenders require a minimum 5% deposit, but a larger deposit gets you better rates. Some government schemes allow lower deposits, while a whole-of-market broker finds lenders suited to your savings.

  • What types of mortgages are available for first-time buyers?

    The main types are fixed-rate, variable-rate, and tracker mortgages. A mortgage advisor explains the differences, helping you choose the best option based on your financial situation and future plans.

  • How does the mortgage application process work?

    A mortgage advisor assesses your finances, finds suitable lenders, and submits your application. They handle paperwork, lender checks, and negotiations, ensuring the best approval chances and smoothest process.

  • Are there any government schemes to help first-time buyers?

    Yes. Schemes like Shared Ownership, First Homes, and Deposit Unlock help first-time buyers get on the property ladder. A broker explains what’s available and checks which you qualify for.

  • What additional costs should I consider when buying my first home?

    Beyond the deposit, expect stamp duty (if applicable), legal fees, surveys, and moving costs. A mortgage advisor breaks down these costs so you’re fully prepared financially.

  • How can I improve my chances of getting mortgage approval?

    A  larger deposit, stable income, and a good credit score improve approval chances. A whole-of-market mortgage broker finds lenders suited to your profile, boosting your likelihood of success.

  • What is the difference between fixed and variable rate mortgages?

    A fixed-rate mortgage has a set interest rate for a term (e.g., five years). A variable-rate mortgage changes with market rates. A broker helps you choose what suits your budget best.

  • Should I use a mortgage broker or go directly to a bank?

    A bank offers only its own products, while a whole-of-market broker compares many lenders. This increases your options, finds better rates, and gives you independent, expert advice at no cost.

  • Do first-time buyers need to pay stamp duty?

    In the UK, first-time buyers pay no stamp duty on homes up to £425,000. A broker checks if you qualify and explains any tax you might need to pay.

  • What are the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make?

    Rushing into a mortgage, not comparing lenders, underestimating costs, and choosing the wrong mortgage type. A mortgage broker helps avoid these mistakes, ensuring a smooth, well-informed purchase.

Final Thoughts

Buying your first home is exciting, but choosing the right mortgage matters. A fee-free, whole-of-market mortgage advisor ensures you get the best deal, expert guidance, and a stress-free process—at no cost to you. Instead of being limited to one lender, you access the whole market and receive unbiased advice.

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