Government housing schemes

Halifax supports a range of government backed initiatives including Right to Buy, Shared Ownership and the Help to Buy: Equity Loan. So if you're a first time buyer, there could be a scheme that's right for you.

help to buy logo

Mortgage guarantee scheme

You can apply for a first time buyer or home mover mortgage of up to 95% of the property’s value under the Government’s mortgage guarantee scheme.

If you’re planning to put down a deposit of at least 5% but less than 10%, to qualify you’ll need to be:

  • a first-time buyer or home mover
  • thinking about borrowing less than £570,000
  • buying a property that’s not a new build flat, Shared Ownership, Shared Equity, Right to Buy or buy to let
  • applying for a qualifying mortgage by 30 June 2025 (however, the scheme may be withdrawn earlier) and complete on your mortgage by 31 December 2025
  • applying for a mortgage with a loan to value (LTV) of more than 90% and less than, or equal to 95%.
  • thinking about getting a repayment mortgage and not interest only.

Lending is subject to an affordability assessment, credit score and a full mortgage application. You can apply for a mortgage under the scheme by following our usual application process.

Learn about 95% mortgages Learn about 95% mortgages

Halifax is supporting the Government’s First Homes scheme, which helps first time buyers buy a new build property at a discounted price in England (not available elsewhere in the UK).

Your local authority will be able to advise if you qualify, confirm the level of discount that may apply and give you details of other scheme rules.

How does First Homes work?

  • Speak to one of our Mortgage and Protection Advisers if you want to start an Agreement in Principle. 
  • You must contact your local authority to see if you are eligible before you start your mortgage application.
  • Find a property and make an offer.
  • Complete your mortgage application.

For full terms and conditions on the First Homes scheme, visit the UK Government website.

Help to Buy: ISA Scheme

The Help to Buy: ISA is closed for new applications.

If you already have a Help to Buy: ISA you can still save and claim the Government 25% bonus (minimum £400 and maximum £3,000). Although closed to new applications, the Government Bonus can still be claimed up to November 2030.

You can also still transfer your Help to Buy: ISA to us from another bank or building society.

For more details please contact us or view our Help to Buy: ISA information.

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments

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Need to talk to us?

You can speak to one of our Mortgage and Protection advisers in person, or chat things over on the phone.

Call us on 0345 850 3705

Mon-Fri 8am - 8pm Sat 9am - 4pm

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