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Help to Buy Scheme

The Help to Buy equity loan could help you pay a lower deposit and pay less per month for the first five years. But is it right for you?

How does it work?

So long as you can raise a 5% deposit, the government will provide an equity loan of up to 20% of the property value (40% in London). You’ll have to qualify for a standard mortgage for the remaining amount.

Lenders participating in the scheme include Santander, Barclays, NatWest and Halifax.

Where are you looking?

  • 5% Your savings

    You need to contribute at least 5% towards your deposit.

    (You can pay up to a maximum of 60%)

  • 15% Equity loan

    Use your Help to Buy equity loan towards a 20% deposit.

  • £200,000

    Take out a 80% mortgage on properties up to £200,000

Is Help to Buy right for me?

You can apply for Help to Buy if you’re buying a house for the very first time or if you’ve owned a home before but don’t own one now.

Pros

  • Brand new homes are available to you
  • Interest-free loan for the first 5 years
  • May work out cheaper than renting
  • Pay a lower deposit on your home
  • Pay less per month for the first five years

Cons

  • Won’t be allowed to sublet your home
  • Must not own any other property
  • Can’t use it if you don’t want a new build home
  • Can only use certain lenders
  • The amount you owe on the equity loan goes up if your property value increases
View new build homes

Help to Buy calculator

How much will I pay? Use the calculator below to get a good idea of what numbers to expect should you decide to apply for Help to Buy.

Min £50k

Max £169k based on income

Results With Help to Buy
Estimated monthly mortgage £606
Additional monthly interest charge after 5 years £37
5% deposit £8,450
15% Help to Buy Equity Loan What is this? £25,350
80% mortgage you need to apply for £135,200
Property value £169,000
You may get offered more or less subject to status and your lender's criteria. Any borrowing estimates are intended for general indication purposes only. You should consider additional research and professional advice before acting on this estimate.
View new build homes