It’s no secret that getting on the property ladder is tougher than it used to be. Even in Yorkshire, where house prices are generally more affordable than the national average, saving for a deposit while paying high rents can feel like an uphill struggle.
Whether you are looking for a city-centre flat in Leeds, a starter home in Wakefield, or a family house in York, the key to success isn't just saving harder - it's knowing exactly what schemes are available to you locally.
Many first-time buyers we speak to are unaware that their local council or specific Yorkshire-based housing associations offer routes to ownership that you won't find on a standard mortgage comparison site.
Here is how our local advisers can help you get the keys to your first home.
Local Schemes You Need to Know
While national headlines focus on general government schemes, the real opportunities often lie in the local details.
1. The "First Homes" Scheme in Yorkshire
This is one of the most powerful initiatives for new buyers, offering 30% to 50% off the market value of a new build home.
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How it works: If a new build house in Harrogate is valued at £250,000, you could buy it for £175,000.
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The Local Catch: This scheme is administered by local councils (e.g., Leeds, Kirklees, East Riding), and they often strictly enforce "local connection" criteria. You may need to prove you already live or work in the borough to be eligible.
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How we help: Our advisers know exactly which new developments in Yorkshire have "First Homes" plots released and can help you navigate the council's application process.
2. Shared Ownership with Yorkshire Providers
If you can't afford a full deposit, Shared Ownership allows you to buy a share (usually 25%–75%) and pay rent on the rest.
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Who offers it: We work closely with local housing associations like Yorkshire Housing, Leeds Federated, and Guinness Homes who have active sites across the region (from Rastrick to Oulton).
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Why it’s popular: You might only need a 5% deposit on your share, not the whole property value. This can bring your required upfront cash down to as little as £3,000–£5,000.
3. Right to Buy (Council Tenants)
If you grew up in a council house or currently rent from a local authority like Leeds City Council or Sheffield City Council, you might be sitting on a massive discount without realising it.
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The Benefit: Discounts can be significant (up to 70% of the property value, capped at a maximum cash amount).
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The Strategy: You can often use the discount itself as your deposit, meaning you might not need to save any cash at all.
The "Bank of Mum & Dad" (Yorkshire Style)
We know that many buyers in the region get a helping hand from family. However, this doesn't always mean a cash gift. We can arrange:
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Springboard Mortgages: Your parents put savings into a designated account (earning interest) which acts as security for your mortgage, allowing you to buy with zero deposit.
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Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor (JBSP): Your parents go on the mortgage to boost your borrowing power (using their income), but they aren't named on the title deeds. This avoids them getting hit with the 3% Stamp Duty surcharge for "second homes."
Why Use a Local Adviser?
First-time buying is stressful enough without dealing with a call centre that thinks Otley is in London.
We Know the "Hidden" Costs
We know that buying a leasehold flat in Sheffield City Centre often comes with high service charges, or that new builds in certain parts of East Yorkshire might have "estate fees." We factor these into your affordability checks before you fall in love with a property.
We Check the "Local Connection" Rules
Nothing is worse than finding your dream home under a discount scheme, only to be told you aren't eligible because you work in the wrong postcode. We check the fine print of local council Section 106 agreements to ensure you qualify before you apply.
We Hold Your Hand (Not Literally)
From making the initial offer to finding a solicitor who doesn't charge the earth, we guide you through the whole process. We are on your side, not the estate agent's.
Stop Renting, Start Owning
You don't need a massive salary or a perfect financial history to buy your first home in Yorkshire - you just need the right advice.
Contact us today to find out how much you can borrow and which local schemes you are eligible for.