First-Time Buyer Mortgage Checklist UK: Everything You Need to Get Approved

Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. Between saving for a deposit, preparing paperwork, and understanding mortgage deals, it’s easy to miss key steps that can delay or even derail your application.

This first-time buyer mortgage checklist will walk you through everything you need to get mortgage-ready in the UK, so you can approach lenders with confidence and increase your chances of getting approved.

Step 1: Check Your Credit Report and Score

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in mortgage approval. Lenders use it to assess how reliable you are as a borrower.

What to do:

• Check your credit reports with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion

• Use free tools like ClearScore and Credit Karma

• Dispute any errors and update outdated information

Read our guide on: How to Improve Your Credit Score in the UK

Step 2: Save a Sufficient Deposit

Most first-time buyers need at least 5–10% of the property's value. But a larger deposit (15–20%) can unlock better mortgage deals and increase your chances of approval.

Ways to boost your deposit:

• Open a Lifetime ISA (LISA) to earn a 25% government bonus (https://www.gov.uk/lifetime-isa)

• Cut unnecessary expenses and budget strategically (https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/budgeting/budget-planner)

• Consider family gifts or support from parents

Step 3: Understand Your Affordability

Lenders will assess your income, outgoings, and debts to decide how much you can borrow.

Documents you’ll need:

• 3–6 months of payslips or SA302s (if self-employed)

• Bank statements

• P60s and/or tax returns

• Details of existing debts, credit cards, or financial commitments

Try using an affordability calculator on a bank or mortgage comparison site to estimate how much you could borrow.

Read our guide on: How Credit Card Debt Affects Your Mortgage Application in the UK

Step 4: Get an Agreement in Principle (AIP)

An Agreement in Principle (also called a Decision in Principle) shows how much a lender might be willing to lend you, based on a soft credit check.

It’s not a full mortgage offer, but it strengthens your position with estate agents and sellers.

Tip: Don’t get multiple AIPs from different lenders in a short time, as too many credit searches can affect your score.

Read our guide on: What Is a Mortgage Agreement in Principle and Does It Affect Your Credit Score?

Step 5: Choose the Right Mortgage Type

There are different types of mortgages available. First-time buyers often choose from:

• Fixed-rate mortgage – Your interest rate is locked in for 2–5 years (or longer)

• Tracker mortgage – Follows the Bank of England base rate

• Discounted variable – A variable rate below the lender’s standard rate

Your choice will depend on how long you plan to stay in the property, your risk tolerance, and future rate expectations.

Step 6: Gather All Required Documents

When applying for a mortgage, you’ll typically need:

• Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)

• Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement)

• Proof of income (payslips or tax returns)

• Recent bank statements

• Proof of deposit (savings statements or gift letter)

• Evidence of regular rent payments (where applicable)

Make sure your documents are up to date, consistent, and clearly show your financial position.

Step 7: Avoid Big Financial Changes

In the run-up to your mortgage application, try not to:

• Take on new debt or credit cards

• Miss any payments

• Make large, unexplained cash deposits

• Change jobs (if possible) — lenders prefer stability

Consistency and stability are key when lenders review your application.

Step 8: Consider Using a Mortgage Broker

A mortgage broker can:

• Compare deals across many lenders

• Suggest suitable products based on your circumstances

• Help with paperwork and communication

This is especially useful if you have:

• Bad credit or complex finances

• Self-employment income

• Unusual employment arrangements (e.g. agency or contractor)

Read our guide on: Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit in the UK?

Step 9: Budget for Upfront and Ongoing Costs

Aside from your deposit, there are several costs to prepare for:

Upfront:

• Mortgage arrangement fee (can be added to the loan)

• Valuation or survey fees

• Solicitor/conveyancer fees

• Stamp Duty (first-time buyers pay reduced or no Stamp Duty up to a certain limit)

Ongoing:

• Monthly mortgage payments

• Council tax

• Utilities and insurance

• Maintenance and service charges (if leasehold)

Read our guide on: What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in the UK?

Unique Insight: Rental History May Now Boost Your Application

Some lenders are beginning to accept proof of rent payments to support mortgage applications — especially for first-time buyers with limited credit history. Services like Experian’s Rental Exchange or CreditLadder report rental payments to credit agencies.

This can strengthen your profile if you have:

• A thin credit file

• No previous loans or credit cards

• A history of reliable rent payments

First-Time Buyer Checklist Summary

Here’s a quick recap of what you’ll need:

• Strong credit history

• Sufficient deposit (ideally 10%+)

• Proof of income and outgoings

• Agreement in Principle

• Mortgage-ready documents

• No new debts or missed payments

• Realistic budget for all costs

• Consideration of a broker

Related Reading

• Read our guide on: What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in the UK?

• Read our guide on: How to Improve Your Credit Score in the UK

• Read our guide on: Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit in the UK?

• Read our guide on: How Credit Card Debt Affects Your Mortgage Application in the UK

FAQs: First-Time Buyer Mortgages

What deposit do I need as a first-time buyer?

Most lenders require at least 5–10%, but a 15–20% deposit gives you access to better rates and more options.

How long does mortgage approval take?

It typically takes 2–6 weeks from full application to mortgage offer, depending on your circumstances.

Does student loan debt affect my application?

It can be factored into affordability, but it doesn’t appear on your credit report. Repayments are deducted from income, so lenders account for this when assessing your borrowing potential.

Can I get a mortgage if I’m self-employed?

Yes, but you’ll need to show 1–2 years of accounts or SA302s and evidence of stable income.

Is it better to go directly to a bank or use a broker?

Brokers can often access more lenders and better deals — especially useful if your financial situation is not straightforward.

Final Thoughts

Getting a mortgage as a first-time buyer is a big step — but with the right preparation, you can make the process smoother and increase your chances of approval. From checking your credit score to gathering documents and choosing the right lender, every stage matters.

Follow this checklist, plan ahead, and consider professional guidance if needed. With the right strategy and a clear financial picture, you’ll be in a strong position to secure your first mortgage and take that all-important step onto the property ladder.

Disclaimer:  Smart With Money may receive compensation through affiliate links, sponsored content, or advertising featured on this site. This does not influence our editorial standards. All reviews and recommendations are based on independent research, and we aim to provide accurate, objective information to help you make informed financial decisions.

Please note:  All content on SmartWithMoney.co.uk is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified financial adviser before making any financial decisions.