What Should a First-Time Buyer Ask a Mortgage Adviser?

April 16, 2025

If you're a first-time buyer looking for mortgage advice, here are some key questions you can ask to help kick-start your journey.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. Speaking with a mortgage adviser is one of the best ways to get clarity and ensure you make informed decisions. Asking the right questions can help you understand your options, avoid unexpected costs, and secure the best possible deal. In this blog, we outline the key questions every first-time buyer should ask their mortgage adviser.



1.  How much can I borrow?

A couple are stood by a doormat that says First Time Buyer

Understanding how much you can borrow is the first step on your mortgage journey. Mortgage lenders assess affordability based on your income, outgoings, credit history, and other financial commitments. 


A mortgage adviser can give you a realistic estimate of your borrowing power and help you determine a budget before you start house hunting. 


While online mortgage calculators can provide a rough idea, professional advice will give you a more accurate guide so that you can start your buying journey with confidence.


Read on to find out what else to ask your mortgage adviser when buying your first home.

2.  What type of mortgage is best for me?


There are several types of mortgages available, each with pros and cons depending on your personal circumstances. Some common options include:


  • Fixed-rate mortgage – Your interest rate remains the same for a set period, offering stability.
  • Variable-rate mortgage – The interest rate fluctuates based on market conditions.
  • Tracker mortgage – Your rate follows the Bank of England base rate.


A mortgage adviser can help you choose the best option based on your financial situation, so make sure you have this question lined up when speaking to them.



3.  What deposit do I need?


Typically, lenders require a deposit of at least 5-10% of the property’s value. However, a larger deposit (e.g. 20%) can unlock better interest rates and lower monthly repayments. Your adviser can explain the impact of different deposit sizes and help you plan accordingly based on your personal financial situation. 



4.  What government schemes are available?

A young couple are smiling while receiving advice from a mortgage adviser about buying their first home

First-time buyers in the UK may qualify for government schemes designed to make homeownership more accessible, so make sure you ask your mortgage adviser about them to avoid missing out on potential financial help. Some options include:

  • Lifetime ISA – Helps boost savings for a deposit with a 25% government bonus.
  • Shared Ownership – Allows buyers to purchase a portion of a property and pay rent on the rest.
  • First Homes Scheme – Provides discounts on new-build homes for first-time buyers.

Your mortgage adviser can determine if you’re eligible and guide you through the application process for any of these schemes. 


5. What fees and costs should I expect?


Beyond the mortgage itself, there are additional costs to consider, such as:


  • Arrangement fees – Charged by lenders for setting up the mortgage.
  • Legal fees – Covers solicitor costs for conveyancing.
  • Stamp duty – First-time buyers may benefit from stamp duty relief on property purchases
  • Valuation and survey fees – Ensures the property is worth the agreed price and identifies potential issues.


Your mortgage adviser can help you understand more about these fees, and help you to budget for them, thus avoiding any financial surprises!


6. How can I improve my mortgage eligibility?


Lenders assess your financial health before approving a mortgage. Steps to improve your eligibility include:


  • Checking and improving your credit score.
  • Reducing outstanding debts.
  • Saving for a larger deposit.
  • Maintaining stable employment and income.


Your adviser can provide tailored advice on strengthening your mortgage application.


7.  Should I use a mortgage broker or go direct to lender?

A young couple are smiling and laughing as they bring moving boxes into their first home

When applying for a first-time buyer mortgage, you can either approach lenders directly or use a mortgage broker. A broker (or mortgage adviser) offers benefits such as:

  • Access to a wider range of mortgage deals, including exclusive offers.
  • Handling communication with lenders and negotiating terms on your behalf
  • Help with paperwork and making sure you have all the necessary documents at the ready
  • Friendly and helpful guidance through the mortgage process.

A Mortgage Adviser can assess your situation up front and help you decide the best route.


8.  What happens after my mortgage is approved?


Once your mortgage is approved, the next steps include:


  • Finalising the property purchase with solicitors.
  • Completing necessary paperwork and agreements.
  • Setting a completion date and preparing for move-in day.


Your adviser can walk you through the final stages and ensure a smooth transition to homeownership. At Motion Mortgages, we will be with you every step of the way until you have the keys in your hand. 



As a first-time buyer, asking the right questions can make the mortgage process far less daunting. From understanding how much you can borrow to exploring government schemes and additional costs, a mortgage adviser is there to guide you every step of the way. By getting expert advice early, you’ll be in a stronger position to secure the right mortgage deal for you, and confidently step onto the property ladder.


Ready to start your home-buying journey? Contact us today and get personalised mortgage advice tailored to your needs.

Get in Touch
A photo of someone holding a pen in one hand and an iphone calculator in the other over a desk

Stamp Duty Has Changed: Here's What You Need to Know

April 1, 2025
As of the 1st April, 2025, significant changes to England and Northern Ireland's Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) have come into effect. We've put together a handy breakdown of the updated rates and thresholds.
Fishing boats on a Cornwall beach on a sunny day

How we're helping one couple relocate to Cornwall

March 10, 2025
Relocating? This story from one of our mortgage advisers might interest you.
More Posts

Call our experts today:

0118 973 5479

or fill-in this form:

Message Us: