Everything you need to know about buying your first home in Cardiff — explained simply.
Buying your first home is exciting, but the mortgage process can feel overwhelming when you’re unsure where to begin. This guide breaks everything down step-by-step, helping you understand deposits, affordability, documents, Cardiff property areas, and how to prepare for your mortgage application.
📥 Download the Full PDF Guide
For a handy, printable version, download your full Cardiff first-time buyer guide here:
👉 Download the First-Time Buyer Guide (PDF)
📍 Why Cardiff Is a Great Place for First-Time Buyers
Cardiff continues to be one of the most popular cities for first-time buyers in the UK. This is thanks to:
- A wide range of affordable properties
- Excellent transport links
- Vibrant neighbourhoods like Canton, Pontcanna, Roath and Cardiff Bay
- Strong rental demand for future investment potential
- Lower average house prices compared to cities like Bristol or London
Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the Bay or a traditional terraced home in Canton, Cardiff offers variety at accessible prices.
🧭 1. How the First-Time Buyer Mortgage Process Works
Understanding the process makes everything less stressful. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Advisor
A mortgage advisor can help you:
- Understand how much you can borrow
- Work out your deposit requirements
- Find suitable lenders
- Explore any schemes available to you
This saves time and helps you avoid unsuitable lenders.
Step 2: Get a Decision in Principle (DIP)
A DIP confirms how much a lender may be willing to lend based on your financial details.
Estate agents often request this before letting you make an offer.
Step 3: Start Viewing Properties
Once you know your budget, you can begin viewing Cardiff homes that match your affordability.
Step 4: Make an Offer
If the seller accepts, the property is listed as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC).
Step 5: Full Mortgage Application
Your advisor will submit all required documents and your application to the chosen lender.
Step 6: Valuation & Underwriting
The lender:
- Reviews your affordability
- Assesses the property’s value
- Checks the documentation
Step 7: Mortgage Offer Issued
This is your official confirmation — your loan has been approved.
Step 8: Conveyancing
Your solicitor conducts searches, handles contracts, and manages the legal process.
Step 9: Exchange & Completion
Once contracts are exchanged, you’re legally committed to the purchase.
Completion day = you receive the keys.
💷 2. How Much Deposit Do First-Time Buyers Need?
For most first-time buyers in Cardiff:
- 5% deposit → minimum
- 10% deposit → better rates
- 15–20% deposit → best rates and lowest monthly payments
Example:
For a £200,000 Cardiff property:
- 5% deposit → £10,000
- 10% deposit → £20,000
- 15% deposit → £30,000
Saving a larger deposit can significantly reduce monthly repayments.
🧾 3. What Documents You’ll Need
Lenders typically require:
- Passport or driving licence
- Proof of address
- Last 3 months’ payslips
- Last 3 months’ bank statements
- Credit report
- Proof of deposit (savings, gift, or equity)
Having these ready helps avoid delays.
💳 4. How Much Can You Borrow?
Most lenders allow:
- 4x to 4.5x your income
- Some may offer 5–6x for certain professions
Typical Cardiff examples:
- £30,000 income → approx. £135k mortgage
- £45,000 income → approx. £200k mortgage
- Couple earning £55k combined → approx. £240–£280k mortgage
Your exact borrowing amount depends on income, credit history, outgoings and lender criteria.
⚠️ 5. Common Costs First-Time Buyers Forget About
Beyond your deposit, you may need to budget for:
- Survey fees (£300–£700)
- Solicitor fees (£1,000–£1,800)
- Mortgage product fees
- Moving costs
- Buildings insurance
- Protection insurance (important for financial security)
Land Transaction Tax (Wales)
First-time buyers purchasing under £225,000 generally pay no LTT.
🛡️ 6. Protection Insurance for First-Time Buyers
When taking out a mortgage, it’s important to consider how you’d manage financially if something unexpected happened.
Types of cover include:
Mortgage Protection Insurance
Pays off the outstanding mortgage if you pass away.
Income Protection
Replaces part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.
Critical Illness Cover
Provides a lump-sum payment if diagnosed with a serious illness covered by the policy.
These policies help protect your home and financial stability.
🏘️ 7. Best Cardiff Areas for First-Time Buyers
Roath
Vibrant, full of cafes, parks and independent shops.
Cardiff Bay
Modern apartments, amenities, and great transport links.
Canton
Trendy and creative with strong community vibes.
Adamsdown / City Centre
Affordable and walkable for commuters.
Llanishen / Thornhill
Family-friendly with good schools and quiet streets.
📈 8. Tips for Getting Mortgage Approval
- Keep your credit score healthy
- Avoid new loans or credit applications
- Save as much deposit as possible
- Prepare documents early
- Register to vote
- Use a mortgage advisor for lender matching
🤝 9. How a Mortgage Advisor Helps First-Time Buyers
A mortgage advisor can:
- Access lenders and deals you can’t get directly
- Explain everything without jargon
- Complete paperwork accurately
- Speed up the application process
- Offer protection insurance guidance
- Support you from start to finish
This makes the journey smoother and helps you make informed decisions.
❓ 10. Cardiff First-Time Buyer FAQs
How long does a mortgage take?
Typically 2–6 weeks depending on the lender.
Can I buy with a 5% deposit?
Yes, many lenders accept 5%.
Should I get a survey?
Highly recommended — especially for older properties in Cardiff.
Is it harder for self-employed buyers?
Not necessarily. You’ll just need two years of accounts in most cases.
📞 Need First-Time Buyer Advice in Cardiff?
We’re here to help you take your first step toward owning your home with confidence.
👉 Book your free first-time buyer consultation today.
🏡 First-Time Buyer Mortgage Guide (Cardiff 2025)
Everything you need to know about buying your first home in Cardiff — explained simply.
Buying your first home is exciting, but the mortgage process can feel overwhelming when you’re unsure where to begin. This guide breaks everything down step-by-step, helping you understand deposits, affordability, documents, Cardiff property areas, and how to prepare for your mortgage application.
📥 Download the Full PDF Guide
For a handy, printable version, download your full Cardiff first-time buyer guide here:
👉 Download the First-Time Buyer Guide (PDF)
📍 Why Cardiff Is a Great Place for First-Time Buyers
Cardiff continues to be one of the most popular cities for first-time buyers in the UK. This is thanks to:
- A wide range of affordable properties
- Excellent transport links
- Vibrant neighbourhoods like Canton, Pontcanna, Roath and Cardiff Bay
- Strong rental demand for future investment potential
- Lower average house prices compared to cities like Bristol or London
Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the Bay or a traditional terraced home in Canton, Cardiff offers variety at accessible prices.
🧭 1. How the First-Time Buyer Mortgage Process Works
Understanding the process makes everything less stressful. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Advisor
A mortgage advisor can help you:
- Understand how much you can borrow
- Work out your deposit requirements
- Find suitable lenders
- Explore any schemes available to you
This saves time and helps you avoid unsuitable lenders.
Step 2: Get a Decision in Principle (DIP)
A DIP confirms how much a lender may be willing to lend based on your financial details.
Estate agents often request this before letting you make an offer.
Step 3: Start Viewing Properties
Once you know your budget, you can begin viewing Cardiff homes that match your affordability.
Step 4: Make an Offer
If the seller accepts, the property is listed as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC).
Step 5: Full Mortgage Application
Your advisor will submit all required documents and your application to the chosen lender.
Step 6: Valuation & Underwriting
The lender:
- Reviews your affordability
- Assesses the property’s value
- Checks the documentation
Step 7: Mortgage Offer Issued
This is your official confirmation — your loan has been approved.
Step 8: Conveyancing
Your solicitor conducts searches, handles contracts, and manages the legal process.
Step 9: Exchange & Completion
Once contracts are exchanged, you’re legally committed to the purchase.
Completion day = you receive the keys.
💷 2. How Much Deposit Do First-Time Buyers Need?
For most first-time buyers in Cardiff:
- 5% deposit → minimum
- 10% deposit → better rates
- 15–20% deposit → best rates and lowest monthly payments
Example:
For a £200,000 Cardiff property:
- 5% deposit → £10,000
- 10% deposit → £20,000
- 15% deposit → £30,000
Saving a larger deposit can significantly reduce monthly repayments.
🧾 3. What Documents You’ll Need
Lenders typically require:
- Passport or driving licence
- Proof of address
- Last 3 months’ payslips
- Last 3 months’ bank statements
- Credit report
- Proof of deposit (savings, gift, or equity)
Having these ready helps avoid delays.
💳 4. How Much Can You Borrow?
Most lenders allow:
- 4x to 4.5x your income
- Some may offer 5–6x for certain professions
Typical Cardiff examples:
- £30,000 income → approx. £135k mortgage
- £45,000 income → approx. £200k mortgage
- Couple earning £55k combined → approx. £240–£280k mortgage
Your exact borrowing amount depends on income, credit history, outgoings and lender criteria.
⚠️ 5. Common Costs First-Time Buyers Forget About
Beyond your deposit, you may need to budget for:
- Survey fees (£300–£700)
- Solicitor fees (£1,000–£1,800)
- Mortgage product fees
- Moving costs
- Buildings insurance
- Protection insurance (important for financial security)
Land Transaction Tax (Wales)
First-time buyers purchasing under £225,000 generally pay no LTT.
🛡️ 6. Protection Insurance for First-Time Buyers
When taking out a mortgage, it’s important to consider how you’d manage financially if something unexpected happened.
Types of cover include:
Mortgage Protection Insurance
Pays off the outstanding mortgage if you pass away.
Income Protection
Replaces part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.
Critical Illness Cover
Provides a lump-sum payment if diagnosed with a serious illness covered by the policy.
These policies help protect your home and financial stability.
🏘️ 7. Best Cardiff Areas for First-Time Buyers
Roath
Vibrant, full of cafes, parks and independent shops.
Cardiff Bay
Modern apartments, amenities, and great transport links.
Canton
Trendy and creative with strong community vibes.
Adamsdown / City Centre
Affordable and walkable for commuters.
Llanishen / Thornhill
Family-friendly with good schools and quiet streets.
📈 8. Tips for Getting Mortgage Approval
- Keep your credit score healthy
- Avoid new loans or credit applications
- Save as much deposit as possible
- Prepare documents early
- Register to vote
- Use a mortgage advisor for lender matching
🤝 9. How a Mortgage Advisor Helps First-Time Buyers
A mortgage advisor can:
- Access lenders and deals you can’t get directly
- Explain everything without jargon
- Complete paperwork accurately
- Speed up the application process
- Offer protection insurance guidance
- Support you from start to finish
This makes the journey smoother and helps you make informed decisions.
❓ 10. Cardiff First-Time Buyer FAQs
How long does a mortgage take?
Typically 2–6 weeks depending on the lender.
Can I buy with a 5% deposit?
Yes, many lenders accept 5%.
Should I get a survey?
Highly recommended — especially for older properties in Cardiff.
Is it harder for self-employed buyers?
Not necessarily. You’ll just need two years of accounts in most cases.
📞 Need First-Time Buyer Advice in Cardiff?
We’re here to help you take your first step toward owning your home with confidence.
👉 Book your free first-time buyer consultation today.
First-Time Buyer Mortgage Guide (Cardiff 2025)
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✔ Clear H1, H2, H3 structure
✔ Cardiff-specific content
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✔ Clean, easy-to-read wording
This is ready to paste directly into a new WordPress blog post.
🏡 First-Time Buyer Mortgage Guide (Cardiff 2025)
Everything you need to know about buying your first home in Cardiff — explained simply.
Buying your first home is exciting, but the mortgage process can feel overwhelming when you’re unsure where to begin. This guide breaks everything down step-by-step, helping you understand deposits, affordability, documents, Cardiff property areas, and how to prepare for your mortgage application.
📥 Download the Full PDF Guide
For a handy, printable version, download your full Cardiff first-time buyer guide here:
👉 Download the First-Time Buyer Guide (PDF)
📍 Why Cardiff Is a Great Place for First-Time Buyers
Cardiff continues to be one of the most popular cities for first-time buyers in the UK. This is thanks to:
- A wide range of affordable properties
- Excellent transport links
- Vibrant neighbourhoods like Canton, Pontcanna, Roath and Cardiff Bay
- Strong rental demand for future investment potential
- Lower average house prices compared to cities like Bristol or London
Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the Bay or a traditional terraced home in Canton, Cardiff offers variety at accessible prices.
🧭 1. How the First-Time Buyer Mortgage Process Works
Understanding the process makes everything less stressful. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Advisor
A mortgage advisor can help you:
- Understand how much you can borrow
- Work out your deposit requirements
- Find suitable lenders
- Explore any schemes available to you
This saves time and helps you avoid unsuitable lenders.
Step 2: Get a Decision in Principle (DIP)
A DIP confirms how much a lender may be willing to lend based on your financial details.
Estate agents often request this before letting you make an offer.
Step 3: Start Viewing Properties
Once you know your budget, you can begin viewing Cardiff homes that match your affordability.
Step 4: Make an Offer
If the seller accepts, the property is listed as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC).
Step 5: Full Mortgage Application
Your advisor will submit all required documents and your application to the chosen lender.
Step 6: Valuation & Underwriting
The lender:
- Reviews your affordability
- Assesses the property’s value
- Checks the documentation
Step 7: Mortgage Offer Issued
This is your official confirmation — your loan has been approved.
Step 8: Conveyancing
Your solicitor conducts searches, handles contracts, and manages the legal process.
Step 9: Exchange & Completion
Once contracts are exchanged, you’re legally committed to the purchase.
Completion day = you receive the keys.
💷 2. How Much Deposit Do First-Time Buyers Need?
For most first-time buyers in Cardiff:
- 5% deposit → minimum
- 10% deposit → better rates
- 15–20% deposit → best rates and lowest monthly payments
Example:
For a £200,000 Cardiff property:
- 5% deposit → £10,000
- 10% deposit → £20,000
- 15% deposit → £30,000
Saving a larger deposit can significantly reduce monthly repayments.
🧾 3. What Documents You’ll Need
Lenders typically require:
- Passport or driving licence
- Proof of address
- Last 3 months’ payslips
- Last 3 months’ bank statements
- Credit report
- Proof of deposit (savings, gift, or equity)
Having these ready helps avoid delays.
💳 4. How Much Can You Borrow?
Most lenders allow:
- 4x to 4.5x your income
- Some may offer 5–6x for certain professions
Typical Cardiff examples:
- £30,000 income → approx. £135k mortgage
- £45,000 income → approx. £200k mortgage
- Couple earning £55k combined → approx. £240–£280k mortgage
Your exact borrowing amount depends on income, credit history, outgoings and lender criteria.
⚠️ 5. Common Costs First-Time Buyers Forget About
Beyond your deposit, you may need to budget for:
- Survey fees (£300–£700)
- Solicitor fees (£1,000–£1,800)
- Mortgage product fees
- Moving costs
- Buildings insurance
- Protection insurance (important for financial security)
Land Transaction Tax (Wales)
First-time buyers purchasing under £225,000 generally pay no LTT.
🛡️ 6. Protection Insurance for First-Time Buyers
When taking out a mortgage, it’s important to consider how you’d manage financially if something unexpected happened.
Types of cover include:
Mortgage Protection Insurance
Pays off the outstanding mortgage if you pass away.
Income Protection
Replaces part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.
Critical Illness Cover
Provides a lump-sum payment if diagnosed with a serious illness covered by the policy.
These policies help protect your home and financial stability.
🏘️ 7. Best Cardiff Areas for First-Time Buyers
Roath
Vibrant, full of cafes, parks and independent shops.
Cardiff Bay
Modern apartments, amenities, and great transport links.
Canton
Trendy and creative with strong community vibes.
Adamsdown / City Centre
Affordable and walkable for commuters.
Llanishen / Thornhill
Family-friendly with good schools and quiet streets.
📈 8. Tips for Getting Mortgage Approval
- Keep your credit score healthy
- Avoid new loans or credit applications
- Save as much deposit as possible
- Prepare documents early
- Register to vote
- Use a mortgage advisor for lender matching
🤝 9. How a Mortgage Advisor Helps First-Time Buyers
A mortgage advisor can:
- Access lenders and deals you can’t get directly
- Explain everything without jargon
- Complete paperwork accurately
- Speed up the application process
- Offer protection insurance guidance
- Support you from start to finish
This makes the journey smoother and helps you make informed decisions.
❓ 10. Cardiff First-Time Buyer FAQs
How long does a mortgage take?
Typically 2–6 weeks depending on the lender.
Can I buy with a 5% deposit?
Yes, many lenders accept 5%.
Should I get a survey?
Highly recommended — especially for older properties in Cardiff.
Is it harder for self-employed buyers?
Not necessarily. You’ll just need two years of accounts in most cases.
📞 Need First-Time Buyer Advice in Cardiff?
We’re here to help you take your first step toward owning your home with confidence.
👉 Book your free first-time buyer consultation today.