First Time Buyer? Here are your options!

Taking the leap into homeownership is a big step, and with Persimmon, it can be more seamless and affordable than you might imagine. As a first-time buyer, we're dedicated to guiding you through each phase, from saving to unlocking your new door. With thoughtfully designed, stylish new homes, simple purchasing options, and lots of support, we’re here for you every step of the way.

First-time buyer guide

Desperate to get on the property ladder but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll simplify the mortgage process and home-buying journey.

 Our first-time buyer solutions are crafted to make owning your first home possible, sooner than you think.

Ready to learn more? Let's go.

What counts as a ‘First-Time Buyer’?

A first-time buyer is someone purchasing their initial home and has never owned any property before. This typically means you haven't owned a home in the UK or abroad, whether fully or partially. If you've inherited property or been listed on a deed, you might not qualify.

Why is this important? 

Being a first-time buyer grants access to special first-time buyer mortgage loans, lower deposit requirements, and government assistance. You may also be eligible for Stamp Duty relief, subject to conditions. At Persimmon, our projects and purchasing paths are tailored for you, with clear guidance to help you confidently enter the property market.

A young couple cooking in their new, modern Persimmon kitchen.

Building savings for your first home

Begin with a solid strategy: set a deposit target based on your desired home price and divide it into monthly goals.

When planning for homeownership, remember to account for more than just the purchase price. Calculate monthly costs, including mortgage, council tax, utilities, insurance, and a buffer for maintenance, so you know exactly where you stand.

Stamp Duty relief for first-time buyers can also reduce initial costs if you qualify. Our recommended mortgage advisors can guide you on everything from loans to first-time buyer schemes, making it easy every step of the way.

Persimmon is here to help you find your dream home

If you're a first-time buyer, Persimmon provides options to make owning a new home possible. Our programs focus on reducing initial costs, easing monthly payments, and making deposits more manageable — all with straightforward, clear steps. We want you to dream big, start smart. Here are some of our options: 

New Build Boost 

New Build Boost is a mortgage with an interest-free boost! With just a 5% deposit, Gen H could provide an additional 15% interest-free equity loan to help get you moving into your very own Persimmon home*.

Own New Rate Reducer 

Own New Rate Reducer is a brand new scheme available on new build homes, which could help you achieve lower monthly payments. It's the hassle-free way to get an affordable mortgage, with reduced interest rates for your initial fixed term of 2 or 5 years.

Bank of Mum and Dad 

If you're a first-time buyer and a parent or family member contributes 5% or more towards the purchase price of your new home**, they’ll receive a thank you gift of £2,000* from us after completion, our way of recognising their support in helping you onto the property ladder.

All of our helpful schemes and ways to help you buy are designed with you in mind, to make your dream home a reality. 

Discover our full range of schemes here

Let’s talk mortgages

If you’ve not had to do it before, mortgages can seem really confusing. Mortgages can differ by rate, term, and flexibility. Fixed-rate mortgages offer steady monthly payments over a set period, while variable or tracker rates change with the market.

You might find mortgage loans tailored for first-time buyers, including low-deposit options and government-backed assistance. Persimmon’s panel of trusted experts can help you, showing you how each option impacts your budget and which might fit your situation.

What do you need in order to get a mortgage?

Preparation is vital to securing the right mortgage. Lenders assess your deposit size, affordability, and credit history. A clear understanding of your income and regular expenses, plus proof of identity and address, expedites the process. 

Our sales advisors can connect you with trusted mortgage specialists familiar with first-time purchases, aiding your transition from Agreement in Principle to a full mortgage offer with confidence.

Steps to buying a Persimmon home 

Start by exploring our exciting developments and selecting the perfect plot that matches your lifestyle and budget. You can then schedule an appointment with our sales advisors, who will outline availability, specifications, and estimated completion timelines. Once ready, reserve your home to secure it. It’s that simple!

Ready to turn your home-owning dreams into a reality? 

Explore our developments 

Frequently Asked Questions

Many first-time buyer mortgage loans start from deposits of around 5–10%, but rates and criteria vary. Our recommended mortgage advisers can explain how your deposit size may affect your monthly payments and which products suit your circumstances.

First-time buyer programs like New Build Boost and Own New Rate Reducer are available on selected homes and may have eligibility criteria. We’ll help you check which options apply and how to combine them with suitable mortgage products.

Typical costs include legal fees, mortgage arrangement and valuation fees, and potential moving expenses. We’ll outline estimated costs for your chosen plot so you can budget accurately.

Persimmon provides dedicated first-time buyer support, diverse locations across the UK, and clear information on scheme options and incentives to make buying your first home more affordable.

We advocate for the schemes we offer because they address real needs — lowering upfront costs, easing monthly payments, and helping you secure better mortgage terms. Combined with our friendly, knowledgeable sales teams and trusted mortgage advisers, they can transform "someday" into "soon."

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