First‑Time Buyer Schemes in Brighton & Hove (2026): What Still Helps & What to Watch

If you’re trying to buy your first home in Brighton & Hove, you’ll quickly discover that saving a deposit is only part of the challenge. The right scheme (used properly) can make the difference between “maybe one day” and “this year”.

GOV.UK summarises the affordable home ownership schemes available and points buyers toward options like shared ownership and other support.
HomeOwners Alliance also outlines current first‑time buyer schemes and notes that a permanent mortgage guarantee scheme launched in July 2025 to support 95% mortgages, plus the continuing relevance of the Lifetime ISA.

1) Mortgage Guarantee (95% mortgages)

This is the behind‑the‑scenes support that encourages lenders to offer 95% loan‑to‑value products. It doesn’t make everyone eligible (lenders still assess affordability and credit) but it helps keep options available.

2) Lifetime ISA (LISA)

The LISA allows eligible buyers to save and receive a government bonus (rules apply). It’s frequently used alongside mortgage applications and can meaningfully boost deposit funds.

3) Shared Ownership

Shared Ownership lets you buy a portion of a property and pay rent on the remainder. GOV.UK lists shared ownership as part of the affordable home ownership landscape.
In practice, shared ownership can be useful in higher‑price areas; but it comes with important considerations (rent, service charges, staircasing, eligibility).

4) First Homes (and other local affordable routes)

Schemes and availability can vary by development and criteria. A broker can help you understand how lenders treat affordability when part of your monthly housing cost is rent.

Brighton & Hove‑specific tip: get scheme + mortgage aligned early

Schemes interact with lender criteria, so it’s smart to:

• Confirm eligibility,
• Understand ongoing costs,
• Obtain an Agreement in Principle early,
• Pick a lender familiar with the scheme type.

Call to action

Want to know which scheme (if any) fits your situation, and how it affects what you can borrow in Brighton & Hove? Call 01273 80 80 95 and we’ll talk you through the cleanest route.