Your Guide to Buying a Home

Buying a home is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you're a first-time buyer, moving up the ladder, or investing, getting your finances in order is the best place to start. Here's how we’ll help you feel confident every step of the way.

Let’s Talk Budget

Before you start house hunting, it's important to know what you can comfortably afford. A clear budget helps you make smart choices—and keeps the stress away later!

- Start by reviewing your monthly income and outgoings to see what mortgage payments would work for you.

- Want expert help? We can connect you with one of our trusted mortgage advisers from Embrace Financial Services, who’ll walk you through it all. They can also explore whether you qualify for government-backed support, like Help to Buy schemes. Example: The Help to Buy Equity Loan (2021–2023) offers a 20% loan towards the cost of a new build if you can put down a 5% deposit. First-time buyers only.

Saving for a Deposit

You’ll usually need at least 5% of the property’s price saved as a deposit. The more you can save, the better your mortgage options tend to be—with lower interest rates and better terms.

Understanding Mortgages

- Use an online mortgage calculator to estimate your repayments.

- Or speak to an Embrace adviser who can explain fees, interest rates, and lender criteria.

They’ll also help you get an Agreement in Principle (AIP)—a key step that shows sellers you’re ready to move forward seriously.

Check Your Credit Score

Lenders will look at your credit score, so it’s smart to check yours early using sites like Experian. Improve it by registering to vote and reducing your credit usage.