Buying your first home is a major milestone, and for many first time buyers in Halifax, it’s also the first time dealing with lenders, paperwork, and credit checks. Getting prepared in advance can make the whole process far smoother and reduce the risk of delays once you’ve found the property you want to buy.

At Halifaxmoneyman, we’ve helped loads of first time buyers through the mortgage process. Here’s what you’ll need to get ready before you apply, and how we can help you every step of the way.

Check Your Credit Report

Your credit report gives lenders a snapshot of how you’ve handled credit in the past. This includes everything from phone contracts and credit cards to student overdrafts and loans. Before you apply for a mortgage, it’s worth reviewing your credit file to make sure the information is accurate and up to date.

Lenders look for consistent records, so make sure your address history matches across all accounts. If you’ve moved recently or lived in shared accommodation, take time to check that everything is showing correctly. Being registered on the electoral roll at your current address can also support your application.

Our mortgage advisors in Halifax can show you how to check your credit report and explain what lenders will focus on.

Proof of ID

As a first time buyer, you’ll need to show valid proof of identity. A current passport or full driving licence is usually accepted. The details on your ID should match your application, so if your name has changed due to marriage or any other reason, you’ll also need to provide relevant documentation.

This is a simple part of the process, but having it ready early helps avoid any issues further down the line.

Proof of Address Documents

You’ll also need to confirm your current address. Most lenders accept a recent utility bill, council tax letter, or bank statement, as long as it’s dated within the last few months. These documents should clearly show your full name and current address.

We’ll check your documents with you to make sure they meet the lender’s criteria before anything is submitted.

Evidence of Where Your Deposit Is Coming From

As a first time buyer in Halifax, your deposit might come from savings, a gifted contribution from family, or a combination of both. Lenders need to see where this money has come from, so they can confirm it’s legitimate and not borrowed.

If your deposit is a gift, the person gifting it will need to provide a signed declaration and proof of ID. If you’ve saved the funds yourself, recent bank statements showing the build-up of savings may be required.

Our team will guide you through this step and help you provide the correct documentation.

Proof of Income

Your income is one of the most important parts of your mortgage application. Lenders use it to calculate how much you can borrow. If you’re employed, you’ll need to provide your most recent payslips and possibly a P60. If you’re on a fixed-term or probationary contract, some lenders will need a copy of that too.

If you receive extra pay through bonuses, overtime or commission, this can sometimes be included, depending on how regular it is. We’ll explain which parts of your income the lender will take into account and how it affects your borrowing potential.

Proof of Expenses

Lenders don’t just look at what you earn; they also look at what you spend. You may be asked for recent bank statements so they can assess your regular outgoings, such as rent, subscriptions, credit card repayments, or other financial commitments.

In the months leading up to your mortgage application, it’s a good idea to manage your spending sensibly. Avoid large transfers, unnecessary credit, or anything that could raise questions when the lender reviews your statements.

Get an Agreement in Principle

Once your documents are ready and you’ve spoken to a mortgage advisor, the next step is to get an Agreement in Principle. This is a certificate from a lender that shows how much you could borrow based on your current situation. It’s not a full mortgage offer, but it gives you a strong starting point when viewing homes in Halifax.

Estate agents will often ask to see this before accepting an offer, so it’s a useful document to have early on.

At Halifaxmoneyman, we can usually arrange your Agreement in Principle within 24 hours, and we’ll explain exactly what it means for your home buying journey.

Date Last Edited: October 29, 2025