YOUR FIRST HOME COULD BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

First Home Scheme

First Homes is a Government backed scheme designed to help eligible first time buyers onto the property ladder.

Step on to the property ladder

Buying your first home is a big step, and the First Homes scheme could help make it more affordable.

On selected homes, you could purchase your new home for at least 30% less than its market value, giving you the opportunity to own 100% of your home for less.

For example, if a home has a market value of £250,000 and is available with a 30% First Homes discount, you could purchase it for £175,000.

Man and Dog Entering a Bright Utility Room-2

Could First Homes help you?

You could be eligible for the First Homes scheme if:

You're aged 18 or over
You're a first time buyer
Your combined household income is no more than £80,000 per year before tax
You can obtain a mortgage for at least 50% of the discounted purchase price

Eligibility and local criteria vary, so speak to our Sales Executive at your chosen development and we'll help you understand what's available to you.

How does First Homes work?

Find your Harron Home

First Homes is available on selected homes and developments. Speak to our Sales Team to find out what's currently available and whether the scheme could be right for you.

Check your eligibility

We'll talk you through the scheme and the criteria that apply to your chosen home. Your eligibility will also need to be approved by the relevant local authority.

Arrange your mortgage

You'll need a mortgage or home purchase plan covering at least 50% of the discounted purchase price. An independent financial adviser can help you understand your options and affordability.

Make it yours

Once your application, mortgage and legal work are complete, you can look forward to getting the keys to a brand new Harron home – with 100% ownership from day one.

FAQ

Your questions answered

Whether you're just starting to explore your options or you've already found a Harron home you love, we've answered some of the most common questions about the First Homes scheme below.

Do I own 100% of my home?

Yes. You'll purchase and own the whole property. First Homes isn't a Shared Ownership scheme, so there's no rent to pay on the discounted part of the property's value.

How much discount could I receive?

First Homes are sold with a discount of at least 30% against their market value. In some areas, local authorities may require a higher discount of 40% or 50%.

Who is eligible for First Homes?

You must be a first time buyer aged 18 or over and have a household income of no more than £80,000 per year before tax. If you're buying with someone else, everyone purchasing the property must be a first-time buyer and the £80,000 income limit applies to your combined income.

You'll also need to be able to obtain a mortgage or home purchase plan for at least 50% of the discounted purchase price.

Local eligibility criteria may also apply.

Are there local eligibility requirements?

There can be. Local authorities can set additional criteria and may prioritise buyers with a connection to the local area, key workers or those on lower incomes.

Our Sales Executive can explain the criteria that apply to the home you're interested in.

Are all Harron homes available through First Homes?

No. First Homes is only available on selected properties and developments, and availability will vary.

Speak to our Sales Team to find out which homes are currently available through the scheme.

Is there a maximum property price?

Yes. The discounted purchase price cannot normally exceed £250,000. Local authorities can set a lower maximum price in their area.

Can I use First Homes if I'm buying with someone else?

Yes, provided everyone purchasing the property is a first time buyer and you meet the other eligibility requirements, including the combined household income limit and any local criteria.

Can I rent out my First Home?

First Homes are intended to be your only or main residence, so restrictions apply to letting the property. You should check the scheme requirements before considering letting your home.

What happens when I want to sell?

When you sell, the same percentage discount you received when you purchased your home is applied to its current market value.

For example, if you purchased your home with a 30% discount, it would normally be sold to another eligible First Homes buyer at 30% below its market value. This allows the benefit of the scheme to be passed on to future first time buyers.

How do I get started?

Speak to our expert Sales Team at your chosen Harron Homes development. We'll explain which homes are available, talk you through the eligibility criteria and help you understand the next steps towards buying your first home.

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