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Buying with Verto
First Homes Scheme
First Homes Scheme
A government discount of 30% to 50% off market value for eligible first-time buyers.
Helping you move to zero
A discount that stays with the home
First Homes is a government scheme in England that offers designated new-build homes to eligible first-time buyers at a discount of 30% to 50% off open-market value. The discount is secured by a planning restriction, so it stays with the home when it is resold, keeping it affordable for the next first-time buyer too.
1
Check your eligibility
You must be a first-time buyer aged 18 or over, with a household income under £80,000 and a mortgage covering at least half the discounted price. After the discount, the home must cost no more than £250,000. Local councils may add local connection or key-worker criteria.
2
Find a designated plot
First Homes plots are designated through a council planning agreement, so what exists varies by site and by local authority. Your district council, or the government's Own Your Home website, can tell you what has been designated in your area.
3
Apply through the council
You apply to the local authority that designated the plot. The council confirms your eligibility and issues the paperwork.
4
Mortgage and reserve
Apply for your mortgage on the discounted price and reserve your plot.
5
Complete your purchase
Your solicitor registers the First Homes restriction, you complete, and the keys are yours.
6
A fair resale
If you sell, the same percentage discount passes to the next eligible buyer.
Your questions, answered
Anything we have missed? Email sales@vertohomes.com and we will talk it through.
Who counts as a first-time buyer?
Is the discount always 30%?
Is there a price cap?
Can I rent out a First Home?
What happens when I sell?
Other ways to make the move
Discount Market Sale
Selected plots sold at a fixed discount to open-market value, subject to eligibility.
Deposit Unlock
Buy a new build with a 5% deposit on a standard mortgage.
Assisted Move
We manage the sale of your home and cover the agent fees.
Ready for your first home?
If you are buying your first home with Verto, our sales team can talk you through the buying process and the schemes that may apply to you.
