Property & mortgage guides
Practical, no-jargon guides on buying new builds, arranging mortgages, and moving into your first home — written by the McLains team.
What Deposit Does a First-Time Buyer Need in 2026?
From zero to 5% — the deposit you need as a first-time buyer depends on the scheme. Here is a clear guide to your options in 2026.
100% Mortgages Explained: Can You Really Buy a Home With No Deposit?
Yes — through schemes from Gable, April and Skipton, qualifying buyers can purchase with no deposit at all. Here is how 100% mortgages work and who qualifies.
New Builds in Luton: A 2026 Buyer's Guide
Luton's new build market is thriving, with town-centre regeneration and suburban estates offering first-time buyers modern homes at competitive prices.
The Skipton Track Record Mortgage: A First-Time Buyer's Guide
Skipton's Track Record mortgage turns your rental history into a deposit substitute. Here is how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
New Build vs Older Home: Which Is Right for You?
New builds offer energy efficiency, modern layouts and developer incentives — but how do they compare to older homes on price, space and value?
How to Sell a New Build Development
Selling new build stock is different from selling an older home. Here is how a specialist agent with a pre-qualified buyer pipeline and in-house mortgage advisory gets developments sold.
How to Buy a New Build Off-Plan
Buying off-plan means reserving a home before it is built. Here is how the process works, the risks to understand, and how to time your mortgage around the build.
A First-Time Buyer's Guide to New Build Homes
Everything a first-time buyer needs to know about buying a new build — from reservation to handover, warranties to incentives, and why it might be the smartest move you make.
Mortgage in Principle Explained: What It Is and Why It Matters
An Agreement in Principle shows sellers and agents you are a serious buyer. Here is what it is, how to get one, and when you need it.
100% Mortgages Explained: Buying With No Deposit
No-deposit mortgages are back. Here's how 100% LTV deals from lenders like Gable, April and Skipton work, who qualifies, and whether one is right for you.
Help to Buy Is Gone: What Replaces It for First-Time Buyers
With Help to Buy ended, first-time buyers still have strong options — from 100% mortgages to 95% loans and developer incentives. Here is what replaces it.
Your Moving-In Checklist: The First 48 Hours
You've collected the keys — now what? A practical checklist for the first 48 hours in your new home, from utilities to security to the jobs you'll thank yourself for later.
New Build vs Existing Home: Which Is Right for You?
Both have their merits. We break down the real differences — price, running costs, maintenance, and resale — so you can decide with your head, not just your heart.
Moving Into a New Build: Your Handover Checklist
Handover day is the moment your new build becomes your home. Here is a practical checklist for what to check, what to expect, and how to protect your warranty.
Deposit Schemes Explained: Help to Buy and Beyond
From Lifetime ISAs to shared ownership and the new First Homes scheme, here's a plain-English guide to the deposit help actually available to buyers right now.
Getting Mortgage-Ready: What Lenders Actually Check
Before you start viewing, make sure your finances are mortgage-ready. Here's what lenders really look at — and the simple steps that can improve your chances.