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Publication - Form

First Homes Fund: how to apply

Published
24 June 2026
Directorate
Local Government and Housing Directorate
Topic
Housing

If you are buying your first home in Scotland, the First Homes Fund could contribute up to £10,000 towards the cost. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply.

How to apply

Follow these steps to apply:

  1. Speak to an independent financial adviser (IFA) or mortgage adviser to check the scheme suits you and that you can get a mortgage. Use the Financial Conduct Authority register to find a regulated IFA. At least one buyer must be a first-time buyer.
  2. Find a property with a purchase price up to £300,000 and have your offer accepted, or reserve a new build.
  3. Appoint a solicitor.

  4. Apply online at the First Homes Fund website before your solicitor concludes missives. Your IFA or mortgage adviser can apply on your behalf. You'll need:

    • your solicitor's details
    • a mortgage decision in principle
    • proof that your mortgage and debt repayments will not exceed 45% of your net income – three months' payslips, or an SA302 if self-employed
    • a home report, for open market sales or a Reservation Agreement for new build homes. For private sales, a Scheme 1 Valuation is needed and your solicitor or mortgage lender can help you or the seller find a qualified surveyor.

  5. If successful, you'll receive an award letter. You have three months to conclude missives and six months from then to complete your purchase. If you miss the three-month deadline, your application will be cancelled and you'll need to apply again.

  6. There is a £650 application fee. Your award letter gives details of how to pay this. We refund this if the sale does not conclude, unless you gave us false or misleading information.

  7. Your solicitor will handle the legal process. The funding will be passed to your solicitor alongside your mortgage to complete the purchase. If you're buying jointly and your co-buyer owns a home, they must sell it before completion.

Land and Buildings Transaction Tax 

If your property costs more than £145,000, Land and Buildings Transaction Tax applies. You may qualify for first-time buyer relief. Find out more on the Revenue Scotland website. Your solicitor can advise you further.

Finding a lender 

The mortgage lenders currently offering mortgages through the First Homes Fund are:

  • Bank of Scotland
  • Glasgow Credit Union
  • Halifax
  • Leeds Building Society
  • Lloyds Bank
  • NatWest
  • Scottish Building Society

Contact

Email: firsthomesfund@linksharedequity.co.uk
Telephone: 0330 024 1321

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