First Homes
A Glowing Opportunity to buy your first property
The First Homes scheme provides first-time buyers with the opportunity to purchase a home at a discount of 30% to 50% off its market value, making homeownership more affordable. To qualify, the property must be your only or main residence.
Homes available through the scheme can either be newly built by developers or resale properties purchased previously under the same scheme. This ensures a variety of options for eligible buyers, whether they are looking for a brand-new home or a second-hand property at a reduced price.
This initiative is exclusively available in England, offering targeted support for first-time buyers looking to step onto the property ladder.
How does it work?
England's First Homes Scheme
Highlight works directly with developers and house builders to list properties for sale through the First Homes scheme. These properties are available to first-time buyers at a discount of at least 30% off the market value.
Unlike shared ownership, First Homes involve no rent payments.
New build First Homes must not exceed £250,000 (or £420,000 in London) after the discount, but local councils may set lower price limits.
You can let your entire property for up to 2 years in total during ownership, with permission from the local council and your mortgage lender. Renting out a room is allowed indefinitely as long as the home remains your primary residence and you live there while renting.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Be 18+, a first-time buyer, and secure a mortgage for at least 50% of the home’s price.
- Earn no more than £80,000 (£90,000 in London).
If buying with others, all must be first-time buyers, and joint income must meet the limits.
Local Rules: Councils may prioritise key workers, local residents, or lower-income buyers.
Armed Forces Exemptions: Local rules don’t apply to armed forces members, veterans (within 5 years), or their spouses/partners, but all other criteria must be met.
Start Your Journey
The steps to finding A new home
FAQ
First Homes Explained
What properties are available through the First Homes scheme?
Only select properties are sold on a First Home basis directly from the housebuilder. Highlight work with housebuilders to promote First Homes. Search ‘Find a Home – First Homes‘ to see our current availability.
Is the First Home scheme only available in England?
Yes, the First Home scheme is only available in England. New Supply Shared Equity scheme (NSSE), is part of the Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT) in Scotland.
Do I need to be approve by the council?
Yes, your application will be presented to the local authority for approval.
What are the costs?
Each month, you’ll need to cover the following expenses:
•Mortgage payment: This applies only to the discounted price.
•Service charge: Covers maintenance of communal areas in your building or development.
•Homeownership costs: Includes household bills, interior upkeep, and contents insurance.
Other costs may apply.
Can I sell a property bought under the First Homes scheme?
Yes, however you must sell to a buyer eligible for the First Homes scheme, offering the same percentage discount you originally received, based on the current market value.
Can I sublet the property?
You can let your entire property for up to 2 years in total, with approval from the local council and your mortgage lender.
Longer letting may be allowed in specific cases, such as job relocation, relationship breakdown, domestic abuse, redundancy, or caring for someone, with council and lender approval.
Renting out a room is allowed indefinitely, provided the home remains your main residence and you live there during the tenancy.
Who is responsible for repairs?
All maintenance costs are the responsibility of the home owner.