The Home Buying Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers *Including Where Your Mortgage Advisor Comes In*
Buying your first home is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel confusing. Between viewing properties, getting your mortgage sorted, and dealing with solicitors, it’s hard to know where to start.
This simple, step-by-step guide breaks down the home buying process for first-time buyers, helping you understand what happens at each stage—and how a mortgage advisor can help you every step of the way.
✅ Step 1: Check Your Finances
Before you fall in love with a property, it’s important to know how much you can realistically afford. That includes:
How much deposit you have (usually at least 5–10%)
Your income and regular expenses
Any existing debts or credit issues
👉 Where your Mortgage Advisor helps:
A mortgage advisor will assess your affordability, explain how much you could borrow, and recommend ways to improve your position if needed.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
✅ Step 2: Get an Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Also called a Decision in Principle (DIP), this is a statement from a lender confirming how much they’d likely be willing to lend you. It’s not a full mortgage offer, but it shows estate agents and sellers that you’re a serious buyer.
👉 Mortgage Advisor’s role:
They can help you secure an AIP quickly by matching you with the right lender based on your financial situation, including any adverse credit.
✅ Step 3: Start House Hunting
With your AIP in hand, you can start viewing properties in your price range. This is the fun part! Don’t rush—view different types of homes, explore neighbourhoods, and think about your must-haves.
✅ Step 4: Make an Offer
Once you’ve found the one, it’s time to make an offer through the estate agent. You might go back and forth a bit, but once your offer is accepted—congrats, you’re one step closer!
✅ Step 5: Apply for Your Mortgage (Full Application)
Now it’s time to turn your Agreement in Principle into a full mortgage application. The lender will carry out a full credit check, review your documents, and arrange a valuation of the property.
👉Your Mortgage Advisor’s key role here:
This is where their support is crucial. They’ll prepare your application, recommend the most suitable mortgage product, and liaise with the lender on your behalf. If any issues arise, they’ll help resolve them quickly.
✅ Step 6: Instruct a Solicitor (Conveyancer)
Your chosen solicitor or conveyancer will handle all the legal work: checking the property title, dealing with contracts, and managing the exchange of funds.
👉 Mortgage Advisor’s support:
They often have trusted solicitors they can recommend to ensure a smooth process. Some even coordinate everything between you, the lender, and the solicitor.
✅ Step 7: Property Survey & Valuation
The lender will carry out a valuation to ensure the property is worth what you’re paying. You can also arrange your own homebuyer’s survey for peace of mind—it checks for structural issues or repairs needed.
✅ Step 8: Get Your Mortgage Offer
If everything checks out, the lender will issue a formal mortgage offer. This document confirms the loan amount, term, interest rate, and conditions.
👉 Mortgage Advisor’s role:
They’ll check the offer with you to make sure it matches what was agreed and raise any concerns with the lender if needed.
✅ Step 9: Exchange Contracts
This is the legal bit. You and the seller sign contracts and agree on a completion date. Once contracts are exchanged, you’re legally committed to buying the property.
✅ Step 10: Completion Day – You Get the Keys! 🔑
On completion day, your solicitor transfers the funds to the seller, and you officially own your new home. You’ll get the keys and can move in!
📝 Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Buying your first home is a big milestone—and a big commitment. Having the right support around you, especially a qualified mortgage advisor, can make the process smoother, faster, and far less stressful.
Ready to get started on your home-buying journey? Speak to a mortgage advisor today and take your first step toward homeownership with confidence.