FOMO for First-Time Buyers

As the number of start-up homes hit an all-time high, discover why financial incentives mean the exceptional choice won't last forever.

If you're a first-time buyer, this could be the moment to buy your own home and one you don't want to miss. The conditions are lining up in your favour, but they won't stay that way for long. This kind of opportunity creates real 'fear of missing out' – FOMO – and for good reason.

Three key factors are working in your favour: mortgage rates are easing, more homes are available, and Stamp Duty savings remain in place, despite concerns they had disappeared completely. Acting now could give you a real advantage.

In this article, we’ll explain what savings incentives are still available, why rising demand is likely to change the market quickly, and how working with your local sales office and one of our Independent Mortgage Advisers (IMAs) can help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.

Demand across London and the South East is continuing to climb. So, watch-out. Experience tells us that the most desirable homes go quickly when the market shifts. And if competition continues to build, prices could start nudging upwards, leaving budget-conscious buyers forced to settle for less.

Stamp Duty: Still Plenty to Save

Some first-time buyers mistakenly believe the Stamp Duty benefit has ended completely – especially since rule changes came into effect on 1 April. But that's not the case. If you're buying your first home, you still benefit from enhanced thresholds:

0% Stamp Duty on the first £300,000 of your purchase price
5% on the portion between £300,001 and £500,000
If the purchase price is over £500,000, first-time buyer relief does not apply and standard rates are charged on the entire amount

That means if you’re buying a home for £300,000, you have zero tax to pay – a saving of £5,000 compared to someone who has bought before. That’s money you can put towards furnishings to set up your new home.

Many first-time buyers are pleasantly surprised by the size of property that £300,000 can afford. Jump to the 'fantastic property choice' section below to discover how far your budget will go.

Understanding your potential Stamp Duty obligation early can make a difference to how you budget. Our mortgage advisers can walk you through the numbers and help you factor Stamp Duty and other moving costs into your plan.

Lower Mortgage Rates: A Welcome Change

The Bank of England’s spring rate cut has helped bring down the cost of borrowing. Many lenders are now offering more competitive mortgage products, including deals aimed at buyers with smaller deposits.

If you’re working with a 5% deposit, as many of our first-time customers do, this shift could put monthly repayments back within reach.

More affordable mortgage deals are now available
Lower monthly repayments for many buyers
Easier to secure a mortgage with a small deposit

By getting a ‘mortgage agreement in principle’ (a written estimate from a lender confirming how much you could borrow, based on your income and a credit check), you can view homes confidently and act quickly when you find the right one. And remember, your IMA will continue monitoring for better rates even after your offer is accepted, right up until exchange.

“Our advice to first-time buyers is clear: get financially prepared early, and don’t wait for the perfect moment. You can act now and still take advantage of future rate drops.” Explains Corrie Johnson, Sales Manager.

A Genuinely Moving Story — First-Time Buyers, Rainham

Buying our first home was easier than expected. We found a three-bedroom house in Rainham for under £250,000, just a short walk from the train station and town centre. The whole process, from offer to completion, took just 16 weeks.

The numbers:

Purchase price: £250,000
Joint income: £55,000
Deposit (5%): £12,500
Mortgage: £237,500 (95%)
Monthly repayments: approx. £1,200

Our repayments are lower than our previous rent, giving us more financial freedom. Initially, we thought saving for a deposit and affording a mortgage would be impossible, but speaking to a mortgage adviser at RMJ changed everything.

The adviser clearly explained our options, assessed our joint income, and helped us qualify for a 95% mortgage. Looking back, we wish we had spoken to a financial adviser sooner. It removed the uncertainty and gave us an exciting plan. If you’re considering buying, don’t hesitate to get advice early. It could make all the difference.

Exceptional Property Choice – But It Never Lasts Forever

This spring has brought a further boost in available homes, giving buyers even greater choice. It's an ideal time to search, but buyer demand rises as confidence returns.

More homes are available right now
Improved affordability is drawing buyers back
The best properties tend to go first

It’s worth noting the fantastic choice of homes available under the £300,000 threshold across The Robinson Jackson Group. We currently have more than 350 properties in this price range.

“From stylish apartments to three-bedroom semis with gardens, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle – especially if you’re open to looking slightly further from London,” says Corrie Johnson, Sales Manager. “But with demand rising, these homes aren’t sticking around. We’re seeing first-time buyers act fast, and many of our most affordable listings are being snapped up within days.”

Across South East London and Kent, you'll find real variety – with even more 'bang for your buck' the further out you go. Find your first home by clicking the link.

Our advice? Don’t assume this moment will last. Take advantage of the current conditions before competition intensifies.

Let’s Get You Moving

Our 25 local offices are here to help you at every step: