First Time Buyer Mortgage in Hove – Step by Step Guide From Offer to Keys

13 February 2026
First Time Buyer Mortgage in Hove - Step by Step Guide From Offer to Keys

Buying your first home in Hove is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are a lot of moving parts, and plenty of new jargon. The good news is that once you break it down into stages, it becomes much more manageable.

Here is a simple step by step guide to getting your first time buyer mortgage in Hove, from idea to keys.

Step 1 – Work out your budget

Before you book any viewings, you need a realistic budget. This means looking at:

  • Your income – basic pay plus any regular extras
  • Your existing commitments – loans, cards, childcare
  • How much deposit you have saved or will receive as a gift

A quick chat with an adviser can give you a ballpark figure for your maximum borrowing, but also a recommended comfortable range.

Step 2 – Get an Agreement in Principle (AIP)

An Agreement in Principle is a simple check from a lender that:

  • They are comfortable with the information you have given
  • They would, in principle, be willing to lend you up to a certain amount

You can use this:

  • To focus your property search on realistic price ranges
  • To show estate agents and sellers that you are serious and prepared

It is not a full mortgage offer yet, but it is an important step.

Step 3 – Start viewing homes in Hove and nearby

With your AIP in place, you can start viewing:

  • Flats near Hove Station or in central Hove
  • More affordable options in Aldrington, Portslade or Southwick
  • Newer builds in surrounding areas if you prefer modern layouts

As you view, pay attention to:

  • Condition – does it need work and how much will that cost?
  • Lease details for flats – length, service charge and ground rent
  • Noise levels, parking, and how it feels at different times of day

Step 4 – Make an offer

When you find the right place:

  • Talk to your adviser about how the price compares with similar sales
  • Consider any work needed and factor that into your offer
  • Be clear with the agent about your position as a first-time buyer with an AIP

Being chain free is a strong advantage in Hove’s market.

Step 5 – Full mortgage application

Once your offer is accepted:

  • Your adviser will submit a full application to the chosen lender
  • You will provide documents such as ID, payslips, bank statements and proof of deposit
  • The lender will instruct a valuation on the property

This is the point where the lender takes a detailed look at everything.

Step 6 – Legal work and searches

You will instruct a solicitor or conveyancer to:

  • Review the contract and title
  • Check the lease if you are buying a flat
  • Carry out local searches and enquiries

They will explain anything that needs your attention before you exchange contracts.

Step 7 – Mortgage offer and exchange

If the lender is happy, they will issue a formal mortgage offer. Your solicitor will:

  • Ask you to sign the contract
  • Agree a completion date with the seller
  • Arrange for you to pay your deposit

When contracts are exchanged, the deal becomes legally binding.

Step 8 – Completion and keys

On completion day:

  • Your lender sends the mortgage funds to your solicitor
  • Your solicitor sends the full amount to the seller’s solicitor
  • The estate agent releases the keys to you

Congratulations – you are now a homeowner in Hove.

If you would like help getting started with steps 1 and 2, you can reach us through the contact page.