Buying Your First Home with Confidence

Owning your own home is a major milestone and, for many, the moment you collect the keys to your very first house or flat is truly life-changing. Getting on the property ladder is not only one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make — it's also a significant step towards long-term security and independence. While the prospect is exciting, we understand that the process can feel overwhelming, confusing, and full of jargon.

That’s where CARA Mortgage Services comes in.

We specialise in taking the stress and uncertainty out of buying your first home. Our expert Mortgage Advisers have years of experience helping first-time buyers secure the right mortgage, guiding them through every stage of the journey — from that initial conversation to the moment you step through your own front door.

How We Help First-Time Buyers

The first step is a relaxed, no-obligation chat with one of our experienced advisers. We'll take the time to get to know you, understand your circumstances, and explain your options in plain English — no confusing terminology, no pressure.

We'll look at:

✔ Your income, regular outgoings, and overall financial position
✔ How much deposit you have available
✔ Any relevant government schemes or Shared Ownership options
✔ The maximum you could borrow, based on a Decision in Principle
✔ Your future plans, to ensure your mortgage remains suitable in the years ahead

Lenders' criteria and government incentives frequently change, and many first-time buyers are unaware of the opportunities available to them. Our advisers stay up to date with the latest options across the market — ensuring you have access to exclusive deals and potentially saving you time and money.

Support Every Step of the Way

At CARA Mortgage Services, we believe expert advice shouldn't stop once your mortgage is agreed. We'll be by your side throughout the entire process, from application to completion, liaising with lenders, solicitors, and estate agents on your behalf to keep things moving smoothly.

Our support doesn't end once you get the keys — we’re here to assist you throughout your homeownership journey, whether you're looking to review your mortgage in future, move home, or explore additional financial protection options.

Take the first step today. Contact us to book your appointment with one of our friendly advisers and start your journey towards owning your first home — with confidence. 

Buying your home in Scotland:Buying your home in England & Wales :

 

Get yourself Mortgage ready!

All lenders will assess your credit score to help them decide how much you can borrow and how much interest they would charge. Having a good credit score gives you the best chance of securing the best mortgage deal for the home you want.
The first place to start is to check and better understand your score, with a thorough report of your credit accounts and history. Your report will include outstanding loans, any missed or late payments as well as any other people that are financially linked to you.
It is best to check your report contains no inaccurate information so that, if this is the case, you can get this put right before we apply for your mortgage.

Get your Credit Report Now

Because we play by the book we want to tell you that...

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances.

The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.

Calculator

Mortgage Calculator

With our simple online calculator you can find out how much you can borow, re-pay and how much stamp duty you will pay.

Go to Mortgage Calculator

Helpful Guides

First Time Buyers Guide

Everything you need to know about buying your first home*

* Note that the Help to Buy scheme mentioned in this guide has now expired.

What Documents Do I Need?

Our helpful 1 page guide lets you know what documents you will need and why we ask for them

LIFT (Scotland) Guide

A helpful Guide to Scotlands LIFT Open Market Shared Equity Scheme

Luke

"Buying your first home is one of life's major milestones. Having dealt with thousands of clients over the years I love helping people buy their first home and being a part of that journey. It can be a complex process but I promise it's worth the effort! At CARA Mortgage Services we help you every step of the way. With a genuine interest in property, and a passion for supporting clients get on to the property ladder, we are here to offer you the best advice. Let us make the complex simple, get in touch to talk through your options today."

Luke Kempton, Senior Mortgage & Protection Adviser