Schemes and support
First Homes Scheme: A Simple Guide for First-Time Buyers
Learn how the First Homes scheme works in England, including the discount, income limits, mortgage requirement and local eligibility rules.
Quick answer
The First Homes scheme is available in England. Eligible first-time buyers may be able to buy a home for 30% to 50% less than its market value. Income limits, a mortgage requirement and local eligibility rules apply.
Education, not advice. Use this as a clear starting point, check the linked official sources and speak to an appropriately regulated professional before acting. Read the disclaimer
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What the scheme offers
GOV.UK says First Homes are sold with a discount of at least 30% against market value. Local authorities can apply deeper discounts. The discount stays with the home when it is sold in future.
Unlike shared ownership, there is no rent to pay on an unowned share.
The main eligibility rules
- The scheme is only available in England.
- You must be 18 or older and a first-time buyer.
- Your income must not exceed £80,000 before tax, or £90,000 in London.
- If you buy with other people, you must all be first-time buyers and the joint income limit applies.
- You must be able to get a mortgage for at least half the price of the home.
Local rules can matter
Councils may apply local eligibility criteria, such as giving priority to key workers or people who already live in the area. Check the property details and local council information before relying on the scheme for your plan.
How to apply
GOV.UK says to contact the developer or estate agent and explain that you want to buy through the First Homes scheme. They help with the application, which is submitted to the local council.
Common questions
Is the First Homes scheme available across the UK?
No. GOV.UK states that the First Homes scheme is only available in England.
Do I pay rent with the First Homes scheme?
GOV.UK says that unlike shared ownership, there is no rent to pay. You buy the discounted home, subject to the scheme rules.
Official sources
Use these sources to check the latest rules and read more detail:
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