First Home Steps Reach your first home goals
Find out moreFirst Time Trier
Saving up to buy your first home? Arranging a mortgage and buying a home can seem daunting or complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. At Principality Building Society, we’ve been helping our Members get on the property ladder for more than 155 years.
That ladder may have changed a lot since then, but buying a house can still be just as complicated and confusing, even if you’ve done it before. That’s why if you’re a first time buyer, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We break down the barriers in our easy-to-understand video guides, infographics and more.
Welcome to First Time Trier
How long does it take to buy a home?
Tips for saving a deposit for your first home
Am I ready to buy?
A deposit
Sounds obvious, but the bigger your deposit is, the better. If you save a 10% deposit, your mortgage will be 90% of the property’s value. This is known as the loan-to-value (LTV).
Good credit history
When you apply for a mortgage, the lender will check your credit history to make sure you’re on top of your finances and can afford the monthly payments.
Get your outgoings in order
Mortgage providers will want to take a close look at your financial commitments. So from that designer handbag habit to that extra takeaway in the week, there’s no hiding your outgoings. If you have any loans or credit cards, your mortgage provider will need to know.
My last 3 years' address history
A bank statement
A payslip or
My last 2 years' accounts
Whether you’re employed or self-employed, mortgage providers will want to see your proof of earnings, so make sure you have copies.
What mortgage is best for me?
We offer a wide range of mortgages for first time buyers all of which we’ve outlined below. After considering your individual needs and circumstances, one of our expert Mortgage Advisors will be able to recommend one that best suits you.
Find out how much you can borrow
If you're working out how much it will cost you and want to know how much you can borrow, why not check out our mortgage calculator?
Know what you're looking for?
If you're ready to choose a mortgage and know what you're looking, why not see what first time buyer products we have on offer?
Helpful checklists
Budget Planner
The deposit will need to be at least 5-10% of the price of the house you want. Jot down your monthly finances to get an accurate idea of your budget.
Download the Budget Planner List
Pack like a pro
It may not have totally sunk in yet, but it’s official. You’re a homeowner and now it’s time to move in.
Time to move on
Now that packing is in progress, there are a few more things you need to sort. Here’s a checklist of what you need to do.
Looking to speak with someone?
That first step on the property ladder can feel like the biggest step. You may still feel a little unsure or need further guidance. Maybe you're looking to see how much you can borrow? You might just want to talk to someone or maybe you're ready to apply for your first mortgage?
We can help you, whatever stage of the journey you're on.
