Borrow
A strong start begins with understanding your borrowing limits. A simple affordability check gives you a realistic view of what lenders may offer and helps you focus on homes within reach. It can also highlight areas you might want to strengthen before applying. With clarity on your budget from day one, the rest of your homebuying journey becomes far more focused and confident.
Credit score
Your credit record plays a key role in the mortgage options available to you, so reviewing it early is always time well spent. In the UK, lenders typically use information from all three main credit reference agencies Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion so it’s important to make sure your details are accurate across all of them.
Keep balances within agreed limits, pay bills on time, and try to avoid unnecessary credit applications. These simple steps help build a strong, reliable credit profile and put you in the best possible position when you’re ready to move forward.
Statements
Lenders look carefully at your bank statements to understand how you manage your money day to day. Consistent saving, steady spending, and avoiding erratic transactions all work in your favour.
It’s also important to check that your statements show your current address. If you’ve moved out of the family home or recently changed address, updating your details with your bank is essential. Any mismatch can slow your application down unnecessarily.
A few months of clean, organised statements can make a meaningful difference when you’re ready to apply.
Deposit
Your deposit influences everything from mortgage rates to the range of properties available. Even a small increase can open up far better options and reduce your long-term costs.
Alongside your own savings, you may want to consider support from the Bank of Mum and Dad. Gifted deposits, early inheritance planning, or family-assisted contributions are all common and, with the right documentation, easily accepted by lenders.
Whichever route you take, every additional pound strengthens your position and gives you more flexibility as you move toward your first home.
ISA
A Lifetime ISA is one of the most effective tools for growing your deposit, giving you a 25% government bonus on your savings. Whether you’re just beginning or already building up funds, opening a Lifetime ISA can accelerate your progress and create a more secure springboard into homeownership. Simple, structured, and designed with first-time buyers in mind, it’s well worth considering.
Vote
Registering to vote is a quick, easy way to strengthen your credit profile. Lenders use the electoral roll to verify your identity, and many buyers see an immediate uplift in their score once they’re registered. It takes only a few minutes but can make a noticeable difference to the strength of your mortgage application.
Register
Having specialist support early on can transform the experience. By registering with Rettie Financial Services, you gain access to advisers who understand the full process. From preparing your finances to navigating the mortgage market and securing the right product. It’s guidance designed to give you clarity, reassurance, and steady progress at every stage.
Decision in Principle
A decision in principle (DIP) is the moment everything starts to come together. It shows sellers you’re financially ready, gives you confidence when making offers, and allows you to move quickly when the right property appears. With a DIP in place, you can approach the next steps with certainty and momentum.