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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.

15 August 2026 5 min read
Help to Buy Is Gone: What Replaces It for First-Time Buyers

The government's Help to Buy equity loan scheme has closed to new applicants, leaving many first-time buyers wondering what replaces it. The good news: there are still strong routes onto the ladder.

100% mortgages

The biggest change since Help to Buy is the arrival of genuine 100% mortgages from Gable, April and Skipton. For qualifying buyers — especially those with a strong rental history — these remove the deposit barrier entirely. Read our 100% mortgages guide.

95% mortgages

With 5% deposit, 95% loan-to-value mortgages remain widely available from high-street and specialist lenders. They suit buyers who have saved a modest deposit and want a competitive rate.

Developer incentives

Many new build developers offer incentives — such as contributions to deposit, stamp duty or moving costs — that can materially reduce the cash you need upfront. We check which lenders accept each developer's package before you commit, so incentives do not jeopardise the mortgage.

First Homes scheme

The government's First Homes scheme offers eligible local buyers a discount of at least 30% on selected new builds. Eligibility is local-authority led and income-capped.

How to choose

The right route depends on your savings, income and whether you have a rental track record. We assess your full picture and show you every option you qualify for.

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