A first time buyer mortgage is usually heavily discounted for a set period of time, before the borrower has to pay the standard variable rate that would otherwise have applied to that mortgage.

In spite of this "helping hand" low start special rate, however, recent house price gains have all but put property ownership out of the reach of those just starting out on the housing ladder.

With any perceived fear of a slump in the housing market, Lenders get nervous. In the event that interest rates rise significantly, borrowers may well find themselves unable to repay their mortgage repayments. Should there be a slump in the housing market, the subsequent loss of value of a property, could push over-stretched borrowers into a negative equity scenario.

It is becoming increasingly important, therefore, for first time buyers to be able to put down a substantial deposit, as 100% mortgages become rarer. You can access here (by clicking the link below), what are considered to be the 'Best Buys' for 100% mortgages to get an indication of availability. Contact us and we will review your individual circumstances and advise you accordingly. Obviously, if you can put down a deposit, (the higher the better), then your mortgage options widen, and we detail below ways in which parents of First Time Buyers are are helping their children become homeowners, for instance by becoming a guarantor.

	First Time Buyer Mortgage Information
	Mortgage Guarantor
	Some lenders will lend more to first time buyers than their income would normally permit, if their parents will act as "guarantor" to the mortgage lender.
	Equity Release - Remortgage
	Parents can help their children become first time buyers, by releasing some of the equity they have built-up in their own home, by remortgaging to provide the initial deposit they need to secure a first time buyer mortgage.

When considering a first time buyer mortgage, there are several issues that should be considered before taking the plunge and it is strongly recommended that you phone one of our mortgages advisers before deciding that this type of mortgage is the right choice for you.

	'Best Buys'
	To view current 'Best Buys' for First Time Buyer mortgages, click the 'Show Me' button right

For advice as to which first time buyer mortgage options are the right choice for you, please click this link.