The cost of moving home
For many aspiring homeowners across Scotland, saving a deposit remains one of the biggest obstacles to buying a property. That’s why the Scottish Government’s First Homes Fund has attracted significant interest from first-time buyers looking for extra support to get onto the property ladder.
If you’re considering purchasing your first home, understanding how the scheme works and whether you could benefit from it is an important first step.
What is the First Homes Fund?
The First Homes Fund is a Scottish Government initiative designed to help eligible first-time buyers purchase a home by providing financial support towards their deposit.
Under the scheme, qualifying applicants may receive up to £10,000 in funding, helping to reduce the amount they need to save themselves and making homeownership more accessible.
The fund forms part of the Scottish Government’s wider commitment to supporting people into homeownership and addressing affordability challenges faced by first-time buyers.
Who can apply?
The scheme is aimed at first-time buyers who are purchasing a property in Scotland.
While eligibility criteria may vary and funding is subject to availability, applicants will generally need to:
- Be purchasing their first home
- Intend to live in the property as their main residence
- Meet the scheme’s affordability requirements
- Purchase a property within the maximum value limits set by the scheme
As with all government-backed housing initiatives, specific terms and conditions apply, and it’s important to seek professional advice before making any decisions.
How could the fund help you?
For many buyers, raising a deposit can take years of saving. Receiving additional financial support could help you:
Reach your deposit goal faster
A contribution of up to £10,000 can significantly reduce the amount you need to save yourself.
Access better mortgage options
A larger deposit may improve the range of mortgage products available to you and potentially lead to more competitive interest rates.
Purchase sooner
Instead of waiting months or even years to build your savings, the fund may help you move forward with your home-buying plans sooner.
Why mortgage advice matters
Government schemes can create fantastic opportunities, but understanding how they work alongside your mortgage options is essential.
Every buyer’s circumstances are different. Factors such as income, credit history, employment status and deposit size all influence the mortgages available to you.
At Stirling Mortgage Shop, we help first-time buyers navigate the mortgage process with confidence by:
- Explaining available government support schemes
- Assessing affordability
- Comparing mortgage options from a wide range of lenders
- Guiding you through the application process
- Supporting you from initial enquiry through to completion
Preparing for your first home purchase
Even if you’re not ready to buy immediately, there are steps you can take now to improve your position:
- Review your credit report
- Create a realistic savings plan
- Reduce outstanding debts where possible
- Gather documentation such as payslips and bank statements
- Speak to a mortgage adviser to understand your borrowing potential
The earlier you begin planning, the smoother your home-buying journey is likely to be.
Speak to Stirling Mortgage Shop
If you’re interested in learning more about the Scottish Government’s First Homes Fund or would like advice on your mortgage options, our experienced advisers are here to help.
We can assess your circumstances, explain the support available and help you take the next step towards owning your first home.
Contact Stirling Mortgage Shop today to discuss your options and start your journey onto the property ladder.
For the latest information on the First Homes Fund, visit the Scottish Government website or speak to one of our mortgage advisers.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
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Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 22/06/2026