the Ultimate Guide to ... GETTING ON THE LADDER, NEW HOMES AND SHARED OWNERSHIP
February/ March 2026 £4.99
rsttimebuyermag.com
WIN! A MORPHY RICHARDS CORDLESS STICK VACUUM, WORTH £349
TREAT THE ONE YOU LOVE THIS VALENTINE'S DAY HOTSPOTS • BATTLE • STRATFORD • WOOD GREEN 5 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR DEPOSIT
WILL YOU UP STICKS IN '26 – IS THIS THE YEAR TO BUY YOUR DREAM HOME?
“Our aim is to make homeownership accessible, meaningful and exciting”
Stuart Douglas TV presenter
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome
EDITORIAL – 020 3488 7754
Editor-in-Chief SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
There has certainly been a cold snap! I hope you are all staying warm and snug and like me, looking forward to the spring. We have been very busy preparing for National Home Buying Week 2026, which promises to be bigger and better than ever before, and we are excited to announce that it will run from 9-15 March. This week-long campaign is designed to be jargon-free, accessible, and genuinely helpful, with content including educational videos, expert
Editor LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Editorial Assistant and Head of Special Events KATIE WRIGHT
Editorial and Special Events Assistant SOPHIE MUNNERY
Creative Director RYAN BEAL
clinics, live webinars, engaging walk-throughs, printable checklists and so much more.We will be delving into Shared Ownership, mortgages, conveyancing, your credit score and lots more. Please go to firsttimebuyermag.com and discover for yourself and follow us on Instagram – @firsttimebuyermag – to keep up to date with everything that is on offer. Will 2026 be the year you take the plunge and buy your first home? Debbie Clark explores the options and highlights some affordable homes around the country on pages 24-28. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching you can get some inspirational gift ideas on pages 8-9 to treat the ones you love! I hope you enjoy this issue which is packed with information and help when buying your first home – enjoy!
Sub Editor KAY HILL
Social Media KATIE WRIGHT, SOPHIE MUNNERY
Contributors CHRIS CLARK, DEBBIE CLARK, MEGAN DOHERTY, LAURA GASKELL, KAY HILL, SOPHIE MUNNERY, LAURA DEAN- OSGOOD, JOEL TAYLOR, GINETTA VEDRICKAS, STEPHEN WARD, BEVIN WOBY, KATIE WRIGHT
ADVERTISING 020 3488 7754
Director of Advertising/Exhibition Sales LYNDA CLARK lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Special Events KATIE WRIGHT – National Home Buying Week – First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards katie@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk Accounts accounts@ultimateguidecompany.com Managing Director SARAH GARRETT sarahg@spmgroup.co.uk
Until next time, happy house hunting,
@firsttimebuyermag
firsttimebuyeronline
SUBSCRIPTIONS 020 3488 7754
SWITCHBOARD 020 3488 7754
EDITOR’S PICKS…
Start by looking at your income, debts, and typical monthly spending. Lisa Westerman, Agony Agent, page 94 What a lovely location, with the gorgeous park views right on the doorstep. Lou Smith, House Hunter, page 16
I looked at several apartments here and instantly knew this one was the one I wanted for my home. I just knew. Jay Scutt, Real Life page 72
All advertising copy for April/May 2026 must be received before 25 February 2026. Send all copy to: lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk The content of this publication, either in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a data retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission from the publishers. Opinions expressed in First Time Buyer magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. © The Ultimate Guide Company Ltd 2008-2026. The Ultimate Guide Company Ltd t/a First Time Buyer magazine will take no responsibility for any loss/claim resulting from a transaction with one of our advertisers/media partners.
There are still opportunities for those who stay informed, exible, and open to different paths into homeownership.
Be prepared to settle with something different and at least get a foot on the ladder . Dan Miller, At home with, page 14
Bernie Conroy, 20 Questions, page 110
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 3
CONTENTS
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 / ISSUE 117 / FIRSTTIMEBUYERMAG.CO.UK
What’s in…
73 The best FTB properties
72 After renting the same house in Brighton with his three best friends for 12 years, Jay Scutt knew it was time for a space of his own. He purchased a one bedroom apartment with a balcony at Bluebell Heights, in Coldean, near Brighton, from Hyde New Homes through Shared Ownership.
HOMEPAGE 8 FTB Loves. . . . Valentine’s Day is the time to
design expert, Edward Thomas Interiors, looks at the kitchen. Megan Doherty, senior client account manager talks trends, tech and tones for the hub of the home… 14 At home with: Dan Miller Dan Miller was just 17 when he founded Young Professionals from his bedroom in Derby. He had a bold idea and a mission to level the playing field for students from all backgrounds. He talks to Lynda Clark about how it all began, his first home and has some great advice for first time buyers. 16 House Hunter We go on the hunt with Lou Smith and Mike O’Neill who are looking for a house with two or more bedrooms in Nottinghamshire. 18 Developer’s doctor Laura Gaskell, Property Sales Manager at Snugg Homes, answers your property question.
FEATURED
20 The View: Stuart Douglas
Lynda Clark discovers what’s it’s all about. 24 All change for 2026 Will 2026 be the year you purchase your first home? And could that home be somewhere you’ve never before considered, or even visited? Debbie Clark explores why you should consider becoming a homeowner this year and highlights some perfect first time buyer properties spread around the country.
show your loved ones how much you care, but this year why not change things round from the usual chocolates or flowers and buy them something for their journey from renting to homeownership? 10 Living We highlight some lovely fresh, bright accessories to add that touch of spring to your home. 12 The Design Studio: Kitchens The final instalment in our design studio series. Our resident interior
Keys or Coffee is a new property prize draw founded by property expert and TV presenter Stuart Douglas. The first of its kind, Keys or Coffee will be hosted on social media with the help of Stuart’s sister Scarlette (who’s also a property expert and television presenter), and their celebrity friends. Amazingly, entrants can win a fully renovated property for the price of a coffee – just £3!
10
4 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
CONTENTS
20 Stuart Douglas
THE VIEW, PAGE 20
IT’S GOING TO BE GREAT FUN AND AN AMAZING
MOMENT WHEN WE FINALLY HAND THE KEYS OF THE HOME TO THE WINNER
REGULARS
to mortgage lenders’ affordability requirements, you may not be able to secure the borrowing needed to buy a home, even with the deposit you’ve saved. Metro Finance explains why Shared Ownership is an affordable option. 90 Finance Not every mortgage is straightforward. Kay Hill looks at the wider market. 92 Market Last year’s Budget showed little in the way of help for first time buyers, but will 2026 be the year to get on to the property ladder? Ginetta Vedrickas talks to the experts. 94 Agony Agent All your property questions answered by our panel of experts. 97 Buyer’s Guide Check out FTB’s Buyer’s Guide, which walks you through the property buying process. 102 Shared Ownership Timeframes Joel Taylor, Head of Business Development and Marketing at Owen Paulo, explains the timeframe for a resale transaction compared to a new build. 104 Directory Check which scheme is right for you, plus some useful contacts. 110 20 Questions We ask 20 quick-fire questions to a property expert and in this issue, Bernie Conroy, Managing Director
40 Hotspot Wood Green We look at Wood Green as a place to live. 66 Hotspot Stratford Is Stratford the place you would like to buy your first home? 82 First home, first meal This recipe for roasted cauliflower with gochujang butter sauce from plant-based chef Ritchie Stainsby, is perfect for Veganuary. 83 Know how to... celebrate your birthday! Sign-up for some loyalty schemes, download apps and join newsletters to get some fabulous free treats on your birthday! 84 Jargon-busting! Stephen Ward, Director of Strategy and External Relations at the Council of Licenced Conveyancers, has put together this handy jargon-buster to help navigate the conveyancing process. 86 Why Choose a Specialist Solicitor for Affordable Housing Purchases? Bevin Woby, Director at Shared Direction Conveyancing, explains why it is important to get a specialist conveyancer when buying through Shared Ownership, equity loans and discounted purchase schemes. 88 Have You Considered Shared Ownership? For many first time buyers, saving 5-10% of the full value of a property can feel out of reach. Due
56 Hotspot Battle We take a look at Battle as a place to consider your property search.
81 Competition
Win a Morphy Richards MRXSTICKPRO IntelliClean Self-Empty Cordless Stick vacuum worth £349.99.
at Bernie Conroy Consulting Limited, is in the spotlight.
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 5
LETTERS
Mailbox WRITE TO US!
Please send us your questions, comments and suggestions concerning property, or the articles in First Time Buyer magazine.
lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk
WHAT SHOULD A MORTGAGE TERM BE? I’m a first time buyer and I’m unsure how long my mortgage
term should be.What’s the best option if I’m worried about affordability? Patrick Browne
FTB says: If your monthly mortgage payments feel uncomfortably high, choosing a longer repayment term can ease the pressure by lowering monthly outgoings, though it does mean paying more interest over the life of the loan. While 25 years is the typical mortgage length, extending it can give helpful financial breathing space in the early years of homeownership when budgets can be tight.You might also come across interest-only mortgages, where you pay just the interest rather than reducing the balance itself, but these have become far less common. Although the monthly cost may seem attractive, you’d still owe the entire loan at the end of the term, which is a significant responsibility for any buyer to plan for carefully.
OFFER REJECTED I’ve just put in my first offer on a house and it was turned down. Should I be worried or change my approach? Hannah Trent FTB says: Having your first offer rejected can feel disappointing, but it’s a completely normal step in the buying process and rarely a reflection on you. Negotiating is a delicate balance, you want to secure the property for the best price, yet if you go in too low, the seller may feel the offer doesn’t match their expectations. As long as your opening bid wasn’t unrealistically low, a rejection simply means the seller is trying to achieve the strongest price they can, which is understandable. It’s not personal, and it doesn’t mean the door is closed. There’s no fixed formula for how much to offer below asking price because every seller, property and market condition is different. If you’re unsure how to proceed, speak with your estate agent. They can offer valuable insight into what level of offer is likely to be taken seriously, and how best to position yourself as a committed buyer.
This issue’s star letter prize wins a Krafted Couch wireless charger worth £39.99. This fast-charge wireless device charger is designed to live right on your sofa arm and is available in Deep Blue, Matcha and Latte. Instead of juggling cables you simply drop your phone on to the slim charging pad and relax and an anti-slip silicone ridge ensures the pad stays securely on your sofa arm.
CAN I GET A MORTGAGE IF I DON’T WORK FULL-TIME? I’m hoping to buy my first home, but I’m not in full-time employment. Will I still be able
VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the first time, go to firsttimebuyermag.com without full-time employment, demonstrating financial stability and reliability can go a long way in reassuring lenders. are consistent and likely to continue. Their main focus is on affordability, so they’ll look at how your income balances with your bills and financial commitments. Offering clear evidence of stable earnings, maintaining good financial habits and keeping outgoings under control can all strengthen your application. Even
kraftedtech.com
WHAT IS AN EWS1 FORM? I’ve heard a lot about EWS1 forms and fire cladding. Do I need one before buying my flat? Liam Kilkenny FTB says: An EWS1 form, which assesses fire safety on buildings with cladding, has become an important consideration for buyers of flats, particularly in taller or newer buildings. Lenders may require an EWS1 certificate to confirm that the building’s external walls are safe before approving a mortgage, as it helps them understand the potential fire
risk. While not every property will need one, typically it applies to buildings over 18 metres with combustible cladding, so check early in the buying process. Obtaining an EWS1 can sometimes take time, as it involves a qualified professional inspecting the building and certifying its safety. Speaking to your estate agent and lender about whether an EWS1 is needed for the property you’re interested in can save delays and ensure you’re prepared for any additional requirements before committing to a purchase.
to get a mortgage? Daniel Redbridge
FTB says:You don’t necessarily need a full-time job to get a mortgage, but lenders will assess your overall financial situation to understand whether the repayments are manageable for you. Many providers are open to a range of income types, including part-time wages, freelance or self- employed earnings, benefits, or other dependable sources, as long as you can show they
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 7
FTB LOVES
KEY TO THEIR HEART Flowers fade, chocolates get eaten, but the right home focused gift can go much further. This Valentine’s Day, skip the clichés and treat your favourite first time buyer (or buying partner) to something that supports their journey from renting to owning – with a little love thrown in
12-piece stoneware dinner set , £60, Habitat, habitat.co.uk
£29.50
£60
Tulip candlestick holder , £9.50, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Love red and cream tufted cushion cover , £29.50, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Sophie Robinson wavy edge trays , set of 2, £20, Dunelm, dunelm.com
£69
Glass striped frame , £10, Habitat, habitat.co.uk
Pink taper dinner candles , £10, Talking Tables, talkingtables.co.uk
£10
Heart of ce chair , £69.00, Very, very.co.uk
8 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
FTB LOVES
£12
Scrub Daddy heart , £3.49, Scrub Daddy, scrubdaddy.co.uk
Pink hearts candle , £12.99, HomeSense, homesense.com
Heart placemats, 2 pack , £6, Matalan, matalan.co.uk
£5.99
Flower vase pen set , £5.99, HomeSense, homesense.com
Red mug , £4.99, HomeSense, homesense.com
Bashful red love heart bunny , £33, Jellycat, jellycat.com
Raya desk and table lamp , £45, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Heart-shaped silicone mould , £1.50, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
£22
Flower metal doorstop , £29.50, Oliver Bonas, oliverbonas.com
Pink heart casserole dish , £22, B&M, bmstores.co.uk
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 9
Homepage LIVING
FROM FROST TO FRESH After months of muted tones and chilly evenings, spring is around the corner. Bright interiors are back, bringing colour, energy and a fresh sense of optimism into every room
Adler three-seater sofa , £899; Adler footstool , £349, Sofology
Chilli plate , £14, Talking Tables
Wall mirror , £14.99, HomeSense
Mushroom table lamp , £19.99, HomeSense
Vanity mirror , £9.99, HomeSense
Nesting storage tins , £10, Talking Tables
Tomato tin tray , £15, Talking Tables
Dip bowls , £8 each; woven placemats , set of 2, £10; striped table runner , £14; round tray , £30, Dunelm
Scalloped blue plant pot , £12, Dunelm
Handmade placemats , £6.99, HomeSense
Ola stacking storage pot , £22.50, Oliver Bonas
Faux tulips in milk carton , £12; confetti vase , £7; cobalt side table , £38; striped side table , £35; frill cushion , £10, George Home
CONTACTS » Dunelm dunelm.com » George Home direct.asda.com » HomeSense homesense.com » Laura Ashley laurasshley-uk.com » Oliver Bonas oliverbonas.com » Russell Hobbs russellhobbs.com » Sofology sofology.co.uk » Talking Tables talkingtables.co.uk
10 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
Homepage LIVING
Pillowcases , £2; duvet cover , from £12; striped battery lamp , £12; assorted trays , £3; hi-ball glasses , £8; tomato cushion , £12, George Home
China Rose toaster , £69.99, Laura Ashley
Calm kettle , £99.99, Russell Hobbs
Striped ceramic mug , £12.50, Oliver Bonas
Lemon paper napkins , £6, Talking Tables
Pomodoro Di Napoli beaded wall art , £35, Oliver Bonas Velvet box pleat cushion , £28; fabulous cushion , £38; oral cushion , £28; Moroccan rose cushion , £20, Dunelm
Multi-coloured bath towel , £9.99, HomeSense
Stripy dinner candle , £3.75, Talking Tables
Ombre dinner candles , £14, Talking Tables
Green cabinet , £99.99, HomeSense
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 11
INTERIORS
THE DESIGN STUDIO: KITCHENS
For the final instalment in our Design Studio series, our resident interior design expert, Edward Thomas Interiors, looks at one of the primary living spaces, the kitchen. Megan Doherty, the firm’s Senior Client Account Manager, talks trends, tech and tones for the hub of the home…
I’M BUYING A NEW BUILD AND NEED TO CHOOSE MY KITCHEN CABINETRY, WHERE DO I START? Consider the layout, orientation and light sources as these will help you decide whether to make the space light and airy, or moody and warm. For bright and sleek kitchens, popular cabinetry styles include handleless designs with either a gloss or matt finish. For something warmer, you could opt for open, larder-style cabinetry to strike the balance between rustic and industrial, or choose a timeless, shaker design for a classic farmhouse vibe. There’s no right or wrong choice but it’s worth bearing in mind that the average household only changes kitchen cabinetry every 10-15 years. So my advice is to go for something timeless unless you are planning to move again, in which case you can afford to be more playful with colour and trend- led styles. I’M BUYING A SECONDHAND HOME, HOW DO I PERSONALISE THE KITCHEN? Changing kitchen cabinetry is expensive so we recommend adding personal touches in
with a self-adhesive vinyl. This is more cost-effective than a full replacement and gives you the opportunity to try out new styles and colours. While pink kitchens had a moment last year, the classics like navy, sage green, soft grey, or even an off-white like Cloud Dancer, the 2026 Pantone Colour of the Year, will never go out of style. IS THERE ANY “MUST HAVE” FURNITURE FOR A KITCHEN? Most kitchens will immediately feel more homely with a table and some seating. This could be bar stools, chairs, a bench (or a combination) but will instantly make the room more welcoming and create a focal point for visitors to gather. Other than this, it’s a question of personal taste. Think about how you use the room and how to layer in that detail. For example, if you like to entertain, you could add a drinks trolley or wall-mounted bar. If you like nature, why not add indoor plants or a windowsill herb garden? To make the space more inviting, add smart speakers so listening to music, podcasts or recipes can be a shared experience.
more subtle ways. For examples, handles are a small detail that can have a big impact. Switching designs can really help make your mark and change the look of the room. The same goes for taps, swap for a different metal or finish, and the appearance of the room changes instantly. Another option is to wrap kitchen doors
12 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
INTERIORS
HOW DO I MAXIMISE KITCHEN LAYOUT AND STORAGE? If you want to maintain a clean aesthetic, remember appliances like air fryers and slow cookers don’t have to live on worktops, they can be put away and brought out as necessary. Some actually have wall- mounting capabilities, or you could incorporate layers of shelving as storage. If you do use them more frequently, dedicate a corner or less-trafficked area so they don’t interfere with prep space. Make full use of any cupboard space too. There are some really inventive systems on the market right now, think carousel storage, swing trays, extendable shelves – all are discreet but offer ample extra space. Then don’t forget to think vertically with creative solutions like door spice racks, ceiling racks or wall hooks. WHAT TYPES OF LIGHTING SHOULD A KITCHEN HAVE? Kitchens need layered lighting to function best. For food prep and cooking, you need
bright, task lighting but for entertaining you want ambient or accent lighting, such as table lamps, floor lights or uplighters. Minimalist lighting is very on trend; you want to ensure any lights you have are intentional. LED strip lights are one of our favourite options for adding accent lighting such as under breakfast bars, shelving or cabinets. These create a sleek finish, can be configured with warm or cool settings to suit different tasks, and you can pick them up easily from Amazon or other home retailers! ARE THERE ANY OTHER KITCHEN TRENDS TO WATCH OUT FOR? Texture is attracting attention. We’re seeing an increased growth in kitchen doors with a ribbed design. This echoes the wood panelling effect that has been huge for the past couple of years and seems to be the next interpretation of this trend. We’re also noticing more feature glazing such as fluted glass doors and even splashbacks. This presents a real contrast to the smoother surfaces such as worktops or tiles and adds a delicate design detail.
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 13
Homepage LIVING
“START SAVING AS SOON AS YOU CAN AND EVEN IF YOU CAN ONLY AFFORD A STUDIO WHICH ISN’T IN THE BEST AREA, IT’S A STEPPING STONE”
Dan Miller is a trailblazing entrepreneur who at just 17 years old, from his bedroom in Derby, foundedYoung Professionals with a laptop, a bold idea and a mission to level the playing field for students from all backgrounds. He talks to Lynda Clark about how it all began, his first home and has some sound advice for first time buyers At home with: Dan Miller
were mostly full of universities trying to get potential students to spend £36,000 and study at their colleges. While attending one of these fairs I had a lightbulb moment and realised there was a huge gap in the market for students to go to an event where there were opportunities for alternative career routes and they were able to meet large companies who were looking for potential employees and could offer everything from apprenticeships to training programmes. In Derby the two biggest companies are Rolls-Royce and Experian, so I called them up and explained that I wanted to put on an event where companies could talk to students about what opportunities there were and advise them on their career path and they loved the idea. They even gave me some money up-front to get it started. So I then approached Derby County football club and told them I wanted to put on an event there and hire it out. They also liked
bedroom apartment in Richmond which offered the best of all worlds. I really enjoyed living there and sold it three years ago and upgraded to a much bigger property in Barnes. FTB : Where do you live now? DM: I bought a Victorian two bedroom, two bathroom home with a huge open- plan kitchen/diner and a garden. A family had lived there for 20 years so I gutted it and probably spent about £80,000 on the renovations. I took my own advice to buy the cheapest property on the most desirable road and I love it!
FTB : Tell us about your first step on the property ladder? DM: I was brought up in a small village near Derby and when I left school after taking A-levels I had already started Young Professionals and decided to have a gap year. I wanted to spread my wings and decided to pack my bags and move to London, which was obviously a big move! I rented in Bayswater for four years and then decided I really needed to get a home of my own as renting was so expensive and I was also really fed-up living there as it was always so busy. I had already saved £30,000 from starting my business and I have always been a saver. I needed a 5% deposit but actually by the time I bought my first home I had saved around £50,000 so was able to put down a 10% deposit. As I had been brought up in the countryside I missed being near green spaces so I bought a one
FTB : Tell us about your career? DM: I have always been a bit of an
entrepreneur and used to sell sweets out of my locker at school and did car washing for people in the village. The school, like most schools, used to take us to career fairs which
14 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
Homepage LIVING
the idea and gave me the space for free which was amazing! I phoned all the local schools and gave them the information about the event and to my amazement over 400 students turned up! I then did smaller events in places like Nottingham and some of the world-leading employers like PwC started knocking on my door as they wanted my help. I now put on over 250 events a year and work with about 60 big companies and have helped over 600,000 young people. I bridge the gap between education and employment and we have also moved into digital media, social media and podcasts. We have a huge amount of data from our research that we share with clients, which is invaluable. I am very proud of what I have achieved and I don’t really see it as work as it’s just a way of life and I love what I do. FTB : You will soon be on our screens in the next series of The Apprentice – how was that experience? DM: It was a big risk for me as I had to be shut away from my business which I’ve been so heavily invested in for almost 10 years. I had to trust that my team and business would continue doing well without me. I actually learnt a great deal about myself while I was filming. We were allowed one short phone call a week, and I never called my family or friends, as I called work to ensure everything was going well and to plan. What I found out about myself was so important though. I had the opportunity to work with different people from different backgrounds, make quicker decisions under time pressure and for the first time, being told what to do by others! I went from being the boss to being managed by other candidates on tasks. I also realised that it was all right to have some time out, as everything ran very smoothly when I wasn’t around, so I can now take a holiday and not worry.They were very good to me when we were filming, as I am dyslexic, and so they gave me extra time to read up on certain tasks. They were long days though and sometimes we filmed up to 16 hours a day, but it was a great experience. FTB : What plans do have for the future? DM: We are building a job app for students at school and university which I think will be so useful for them. It will give help with CVs and job applications and because it’s on your phone you can access it at all times. I also have a little passion project going which I am excited about but it’s not quite ready yet. FTB : What advice would you give first time buyers? DM: Location is very important and first time buyers may want to live in a precise
“I NOW PUT ON OVER 250 EVENTS A YEAR AND WORK WITH ABOUT 60 BIG COMPANIES AND HAVE HELPED OVER 600,000 YOUNG PEOPLE”
location and have an idea of what property they want, but it might be out of their reach, so be prepared to settle with something different and at least get a foot on the ladder. Start saving as soon as you can and even if you can only afford a studio which isn’t in the best area, it’s a stepping stone. The first property you buy will not be your
forever home. Also, make sure you read all the small print and understand what the lease says, unless it’s a freehold property, and what the service charge is for and how much it will be.
Young Professionals – YPUK @youngprouk
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 15
Homepage FIRST RUNG
The HOUSE HUNTER
What we found…
THE BEST OF BOTH
THE WILDCARD
Petersmiths Park Newark, Nottinghamshire
Chantrey Park Market Rasen, Lincolnshire
This month FTB goes on the hunt with Lou Smith and Mike O’Neill who are looking for a house with two or more bedrooms in Nottinghamshire
Well-connected Market Rasen is the home to this new collection of two and three bedroom houses perfect for a wide range of homebuyers. The pretty town – complete with quaint high street, good shops, schools and cosy pub – is just a mile down the road. Open countryside surrounds, while the stunning Lincolnshire coastline is just a 30-minute drive. The houses available through Shared Ownership have been created with modern life in mind: features include an electric car charging point, air-source heating and downstairs WC.
Set between Shef eld and Nottingham, close to Sherwood Forest, open countryside, charming rural towns and plenty of shops, these family homes give residents a blend of nature, convenience and community. It’s a location that lends itself to an active, lifestyle, with woodland walks and green spaces. The three bedroom homes available through Shared Ownership come in a choice of styles. The spacious Kildare features a separate living room and kitchen, downstairs WC and garage. Upstairs, there are three well-proportioned bedrooms, one with its own en suite.
PROFILE
Name Lou Smith, 32; Mike O’Neill, 33 Occupation Recruitment consultant; sales lead Maximum budget £280,000
Requirements A house with at least two bedrooms with good road access to both Nottingham and Shef eld. Good local amenities, a strong community feel and outdoors lifestyle are all top priorities
What they wanted…
We moved to Nottingham two years ago for work and absolutely love it here. With family in Nottingham, London and Newcastle, we initially loved it because it was fairly priced and worked well for commuting and seeing family. But we’ve fallen in love with the area for many reasons and really want to buy a home in Nottinghamshire. I oversee work in my company’s Nottingham of ce – and also have to visit Shef eld every few weeks, so I do a lot of driving, while Lou mostly works from home a lot, and has client meetings around the county. Finding a location that suits that commuting is our most important requirement. It’s just the two of us at the moment, but we’re hoping to start a family in the near future, so having two or more bedrooms is high up on our list of priorities, too. We both play sports, and are happy to join new clubs if we move away from our current area. It’s a great way to make new connections in an area, and something we would really love to do.”
platformhomeownership.com
homereach.org.uk
*Based on a 50% share of the full market value of £219,996
*Based on a 35% share of the full market value of £167,000
What they thought…
With the seaside so close by, living in Market Rasen would be a completely new way of life for us. We do love the idea of jumping in the car and having the choice of country, coast and areas such as Lincoln and Hull within easy reach. We like the houses – they’re nicely laid out, with plenty of extra storage – and we love the double doors opening to the garden. With our travel needs, this is further out than we’d hoped for. It takes around 80 minutes to get to both Nottingham and Shef eld, so might be a bit too far.”
Both Nottingham and Shef eld are a 40-minute drive, so this is a good location for me in terms of work. It’s also a beautiful area – with the amazing forest about a 15-minute drive and abbeys and interesting places to explore all around. We really do love getting out and about in nature, and that’s de nitely available near here! The houses themselves are really nicely designed – we love the idea of a garage – perhaps even using it as a gym or workshop. The opportunities here are endless.”
16 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
Homepage FIRST RUNG
First choice!
THE FOREST FANCY
THE TOWN LIFE
Thoresby Vale Mans eld, Nottinghamshire
Kings Meadow Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire
Located just outside the bustling market town of Newark-on-Trent, in popular Fernwood, these new homes are proving a hit with local families. The three, four and ve bedroom houses come in a range of styles and bene t from communal outdoor spaces, while being within easy reach of modern amenities from village pubs and eateries to pretty woodland. The three bedroom semi-detached houses feature separate living and dining rooms, a cloakroom, and an en suite to the main bedroom upstairs. Nottingham city centre is around a 30-minute drive.
Situated in the heart of Sherwood Forest, surrounded by 350 acres of country park, these two to ve bedroom properties are perfect for those seeking an outdoors lifestyle. The houses include three- storey, three bedroom townhouses and ve bedroom detached homes with en suite from the main bedroom, integrated storage, separate kitchen, dining and living rooms, and well-sized gardens for family fun. Mans eld is a 15-minute drive, while Nottingham city centre can be reached in 45 minutes for entertainment, shopping and dining.
THE NEXT STEP
allison-homes.co.uk
dwh.co.uk
*Based on a 50% share of the market value of £285,000
What a lovely location, with the gorgeous park views right on the doorstep. We currently live in quite a built-up and grey-looking area, so this would be a breath of fresh air for us – quite literally. The houses are impressive – spacious looking and very stylish. It’s a good spot in terms of getting out and about in the fresh air, which is one of the things that’s really important to us. There’s nature all around, the town of Arnold is close by and has a theatre and a good range of shops, while Nottingham is only a 20-minute drive. It really does look like the ideal spot for us. “The location and the homes themselves seem like a no-brainer for us – we’re very interested in viewing and seriously considering this development. I’d like to spend a few weekends getting a feel of the immediate area, but it is de nitely an amazing option!”
We’ve had a few days out in and around Newark and have enjoyed the feel of it. It’s a fairly big town, but it’s pretty and there’s plenty of culture and history, with museums, castle and lovely riverside area. It would be a lovely place to live. The houses are great; we like the mix of styles and the idea of joining a new community. Shared Ownership makes buying a four bedroom place realistic, which would be amazing in terms of space. But perhaps that’s more space than we actually need at the moment!”
This is a fantastic location – the thought of stepping into a country park and taking forest walks in whichever direction we choose is an appealing one. We also have a young niece who loves Robin Hood and folklore, and will be so excited to explore the famous forest! The village of Edwinstowe is also only a 10-minute walk, so it’s super convenient. We really like the variety of house styles, the stylish kitchens, wooden ooring and option for the parquet upgrade – we would de nitely consider this.”
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 17
ADVICE
Laura Gaskell is the Property Sales Manager at Snugg Homes (part of the Jigsaw Homes Group). She has worked in housing for 12 years and joined the Jigsaw Homes Group Development Team in 2016, before becoming the Property Sales Manager for Snugg Homes in 2019. She loves working with the Snugg Homes Team and really enjoys the diverse nature of her role, which includes updating stakeholders, working closely with partner organisations, monitoring their targets and performance and ensuring that they put customer focus at the heart of everything they do Q I am a first time buyer and I am interested in Shared Ownership, but will I be able to own my home outright in the future? A One of the most appealing aspects of Shared Ownership is its flexibility, Lease, you could staircase all the way up to 100% ownership in the future. When you decide to purchase additional shares, the value of those shares will be based on the current open market value of the
Laura Gaskell, Property Sales Manager, Snugg Homes
administration or solicitor’s fees. Instead, the price of each 1% share is calculated using the original market value, adjusted annually in line with the House Price Index (HPI).Your Registered Provider will supply an updated HPI valuation at least once a year and again when you request to staircase, making it easier to plan and budget confidently. If you prefer to increase your ownership more quickly, you can still purchase shares of 5% or more at any time. Here to Help The Snugg Homes team is here to assist you at every stage of your homebuying journey. If you’re interested in any of our impressive developments, we’re ready to help you find the perfect home. To register interest, visit snugghomes.co.uk. Stay connected with us on social media by following @snugghomes on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn.
property at that time.A valuation will be carried out, and the cost of the new share will reflect the home’s most up-to-date value. As your ownership increases, the rent you pay on the remaining share reduces accordingly. Once you reach 100% ownership you will no longer pay rent; service charges and ground rent may still be applicable on some leases. Standard Model Lease 2021–26 If your home is sold under the Standard Model Lease 2021–26, there is an additional staircasing option designed to make increasing ownership even more affordable. For the first 15 years, you can choose to staircase by as little as 1% per year.This option comes with many advantages; there are no
allowing you to increase the share you own over time as your financial circumstances change. In many cases, the answer is yes, you can own your home outright. However, how far you can increase your ownership depends on the type of lease the home is sold under, so understanding this from the outset is essential if owning outright is part of your long-term plan. Let’s break it down for you.
What is Staircasing? Staircasing is the process of buying
additional shares in your home over time. It’s entirely optional, meaning you are never obligated to buy more shares unless it feels right for you financially. Typically, you can staircase in increments of 5% or more, and there’s no limit on how many times you can do this, although it’s always advisable to check your individual lease for any specific conditions. The cost of each additional share is calculated as a proportion of the home’s full market value at the time of purchase. For example, if your home is valued at £300,000 and you choose to buy an additional 25%, the cost would be £75,000. Designated Protected Area (DPA) Lease If your home is located within a Designated Protected Area, it will be sold under a DPA Standard Model Lease.These areas are typically rural locations where affordable housing is limited and needs to be protected for future buyers. Under a DPA lease, the maximum share you can purchase is 80%.This means the home will remain as Shared Ownership in perpetuity, ensuring it continues to provide affordable housing opportunities for future buyers.
Dreaming of a place to call your own, where winter nights feel cosy, and countryside walks are right on your doorstep? Scholars Gate, the latest development from Shared Ownership specialist Snugg Homes, can help your dream become reality. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales National
Park sits Giggleswick, a scenic village with a
welcoming community. Within walking distance lies the historic market town of Settle, with independent shops, quaint cafes, local schools, a supermarket and a Post Of ce. Scholars Gate offers a beautifully crafted collection of two and three bedroom semi-detached homes, perfect for rst time buyers looking for quality, comfort and value.
Both the two and three bedroom homes are built to the highest speci cations and offer spacious interiors, including generous bedrooms that provide plenty of comfort, with carpets included throughout, off-road parking, gas central heating, and uPVC doors and windows, all ready for you to settle down into.
snugghomes.co.uk
Standard Model Lease If your home is sold under a Standard Model
*Based on a 25% share with a full market value of £295,000
18 First Time Buyer June/July 2018
February/March 2026
THE VIEW
KEYS OR COFFEE?
Keys or Coffee is a new property prize draw founded by property expert and TV presenter Stuart Douglas. Following on from his hit Channel 4 shows, Worst House on the Street , Can’t Sell Must Sell and George Clarke’s Flipping Fast , this property prize draw is the first of its kind. Keys or Coffee will be hosted on social media with the help of Stuart’s sister Scarlette (who’s also a property expert and television presenter), and their celebrity friends. Amazingly, entrants can win a fully renovated property for the price of a coffee – just £3! Lynda Clark discovers what’s it’s all about
"THE BIG DIFFERENCE THAT SETS US APART FROM OTHERS IS THAT THE PUBLIC WILL CURATE THE PROPERTY STYLE EACH WEEK VIA CELEBRITY-LED INTERACTIVE POLLS"
20 First Time Buyer December 2021/January 2022
20 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
THE VIEW
"EACH TICKET SALE WILL ALSO BENEFIT OUR PARTNER
CHARITIES, GIVING THE CAMPAIGN A POSITIVE SOCIAL IMPACT"
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 21
THE VIEW
"WITH THIS INNOVATIVE APPROACH VIA ONLINE ENGAGEMENT, THE PUBLIC CAN WATCH THE PROPERTY DEVELOP THROUGH THEIR DESIGN DECISIONS, AND FINALLY ONE LUCKY WINNER WILL OWN A BESPOKE PROPERTY, DESIGNED BY THE NATION, FOR THE PRICE OF A CUP OF COFFEE"
22 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
THE VIEW
I t would be a dream come true for any first time buyer to win a fully renovated property! But, even though Stuart Douglas has always wanted to get the public to fully interact in his and Scarlette’s TV shows, it’s never been possible because of the format and the editing process. So, over a fairly long period Stuart has been working on his own idea, this unique and innovative prize draw that lets the public design the property that will be won. Stuart said, “We are all so excited about Keys or Coffee as it’s taken me a long time to get this off the ground. I’m a property developer as well as a TV presenter, so it seemed natural to want to create a property, which is the ideal home for a first time buyer. “The big difference that sets us apart from others is that the public will curate the property style each week via celebrity-led interactive polls.They will make interior design choices for the rooms and features including the kitchen, bathroom, appliances, audiovisual and even garden landscaping. “With this innovative approach via online engagement, the public can watch the property develop through their design decisions, and finally one lucky winner will own a bespoke property, designed by the nation for the price of a cup of coffee. Each ticket sale will also benefit our partner charities, giving the campaign a positive social impact.The money raised will help to support these wonderful and varied causes.The charities will be featured during the prize draw and I plan to visit them to get involved and capture the spirit of the great work they do.” It’s such a clever concept and over an eight-week period, weekly Tuesday Choose- day polls are released on Instagram, with three design choices for the public to choose from.This is how the property is designed by the public week by week. Entries to win can be purchased until 19 April 2026 at keysorcoffee.com.The renovation, and the related design choice polls, will run for the first eight to 10-week period. Stuart will be putting up daily content including the progress of the renovation, behind the scenes footage, and the poll results. On Friday Fun-day Stuart will go around the country as he gets the public involved in various challenges for the chance to win free entries. He continued, “Our aim is to make
about how to make a home their own.And of course my sister Scarlette who, like me, is a TV presenter and property expert, has a passion for design and renovation which is unmatched. She knows how to turn a vision into reality and make it look effortless. “We are also extremely proud to be helping amazing charities and they’ll receive 10% of all ticket sales.The charities that we are supporting are the Pink Ribbon Foundation, which is a grant-making trust with a mission to fund projects and provide financial support to UK charities that relieve the needs of people who are suffering from, have been affected by breast cancer, or who work to advance the understanding of breast cancer and its early detection and treatment. Afro Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) which saves lives through bone marrow, blood and organ donation. Mary’s Meals which serves life-changing school meals to more than three million children, in 16 countries, every school day.And Furnishing Futures which creates fully furnished homes that give hope and dignity to women and children placed in empty social housing after domestic abuse.” The timeline to date is – Keys or Coffee launched on 27 November 2025 at the Ideal Home Show Christmas exhibition and the main draw opened on 27 December 2025. Keys or Coffee is offering three prize draws. The main draw and first prize is to win the property; the second prize is a holiday for two in Rio, including a tour of a coffee farm, and the third prize is £5,000 cash. All three prizes will be drawn on Sunday 19 April 2026.This is the last day of the Ideal Home Show and the winners will be drawn live on the main stage. “I am so excited and really can’t wait to see what the public vote for. It’s going to be great fun and an amazing moment when we finally hand the keys of the home to the winner – it’ll be a dream come true for them, but also for me, because I’ve wanted to do something like this for such a long time. It will certainly be one of those moments in life that you never forget. It’s your choice, your vote and your property!” Follow on @keysorcoffee keysorcoffee.com Contact hello@keysorcoffee.com T&Cs on the website at keysorcoffee.com
homeownership accessible, meaningful and exciting and all powered by the people. Each week we launch a Choose-day poll on social media and the public votes on design decisions – everything from kitchen colour and layout, bathroom fittings and flooring style to garden landscaping and lighting. The votes will shape the home and what it looks like.We want to build something that connects people, where every vote, share, comment and post becomes part of the natural conversation and where your coffee might just change your life. “We are backed by a powerful network of creators, brands, charities and wonderful people who believe in doing things differently. We have some amazing celebrities on board including Jeff Brazier, who is a broadcaster, coach and family man. He will be sharing how thoughtful design can make daily life better with plenty of heart and humour along the way. Natalie Bower is the founder of Bower Interior Design.With her eye for texture, tone and style she will help transform spaces into something very special. She will offer insider tips and explain how to balance luxury with liveability. Adebayo Akinfenwa is a football legend, motivational speaker and style icon. He loves bold statement design and people should expect some strong opinions, big reveals and a few unexpected preferences along the way.Then we have Stevo the Madman – a creator, storyteller and family man. He will be full of laughter, honesty and creativity. He has a growing passion for interiors and loves a good transformation story, so get ready for fun and relatable design moments! Scott DIY is a DIY expert, content creator and a home transformation pro. His followers know him for his practical skills, design hacks and unstoppable energy. He will be bringing hands-on spirit to our polls that will inspire everyone to think creatively
HOW TO ENTER You can enter the competition online at keysorcoffee.com or for free with a postal entry. Go to keysorcoffee.com for more information and simple instructions. Starter price – £3 for 1 entry to the property draw Bundle 1 – £15 for 20 entries to the property draw plus the bonus draw for 20 entries to the holiday in Brazil for two with a coffee tour included. Bundle 2 – £30 for 60 entries to the property draw plus the bonus draw for 60 entries to the holiday in Brazil for two with a coffee tour included and 60 entries to the £5,000 cash prize.
First Time Buyer February/March 2026 23
NEW BUILD HOMES
Whether you are the type to write resolutions or not, a new year is a powerful motivator for change. And, this year, that could mean big change. Will 2026 be the year you purchase your first home? And could that home be somewhere you’ve never considered, or even been?! Debbie Clark explores why you should consider upping sticks in '26! ALL CHANGE FOR 2026!
As we move through a new year it is natural to make plans and reassess, and for first time buyers with hopes to buy this year, it is encouraging to note that monthly mortgage costs as a share of income are at their lowest level since 2022. Amanda Bryden, Head of Halifax Mortgages, is optimistic for first time buyers in 2026. She says, “While affordability remains challenging, the picture has improved compared to recent years, driven by a combination of above-inflation wage growth, lower interest rates and some expansion of eligibility criteria from mortgage lenders… lower interest rates and easing inflation should help to gradually improve homebuyers’ purchasing power.” When choosing your first home, there are many factors you will need to consider and location is obviously one of the most important. The pandemic saw a shift, with thousands relocating from urban areas. However, a new survey by specialist home insurance provider, Homeprotect, suggests Gen Z are now prioritising proximity to large towns and cities over square footage again. The specialist insurer surveyed 2,000 UK adults to determine the most important factors when choosing a new home, and while nearly 45% of participants voted property and garden size their most important consideration, young buyers were more concerned with proximity to a large town or city. Whether town or country, the temptation is to look for a property in an area you already know well – often where you grew up, studied or now work. After all, you know what you’re getting and there is a comfort in the familiar. However, if you don’t look further afield when buying your first home, you could be missing out! There are many compelling reasons to make this big life change an even more monumental one, by choosing to start your next chapter as a homeowner somewhere completely new. AFFORDABILITY Getting more property for your money is likely to be high on your agenda as a first time buyer, so look at more affordable areas.You may find that, in a new area, your
if you were to relocate? Now is the perfect time to actively follow your interests. Do your research and find an area with great facilities and like-minded folk and you will feel right at home in no time! WORK-LIFE BALANCE It is, of course, important to consider how a move will impact your commute and work-life balance.You may find that moving closer to work frees up time for hobbies and family, or you may decide that a longer commute is worth it for the benefits of living in your desired location. Either way, do your research as to the times and costs involved. A FRESH START Relocating can help you to break old habits and routines and create new, healthier ones. It is an opportunity to ditch the old, and start the new life you have always wanted. Finally, whatever your motivation to move somewhere new, know that you are not alone! You will meet plenty of others who have also taken the plunge, and who you already have something positive in common with when you start to make new connections.
budget will stretch to an extra bedroom, for example, or give you outside space or off- street parking you didn’t think you could afford. Perhaps you are still a way from saving the deposit you need for your dream home in your desired location, but, if you were to relocate, you could be a homeowner this year!
PROXIMITY TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Moving away from loved ones can understandably feel daunting but, with careful consideration, a move needn’t negatively impact your relationships – especially if you’ve managed to stretch to an extra bedroom to host them! Conversely, if you already have friends and family scattered across the country, relocating to a more central area – with strong transport links – could make your relationships stronger. Remember, anyone else could also move at any time so you need to prioritise the needs of you and your family!
LIFESTYLE
Think carefully about what is most important to you. Do you have hobbies that you would be able to pursue more actively
24 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
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