Deposit Unlock

The deposit unlock scheme is an attractive option to consider for homebuyers without a large amount savings who are looking to purchase a new-build property.

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What is a Deposit Unlock?

Deposit unlock is a scheme devised to help buyers with only a minimal deposit to buy a new-build home.

Instead of the normal deposit requirements for new builds, which is typically set between 15% and 25%, deposit unlock allows you to buy a new build home with just a 5% deposit.

The maximum loan amount available for buying a property using the deposit unlock scheme in the UK is £750,000.

However, the amount you can borrow depends on the participating lender after an assessment of your personal circumstances and finances.
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Why choose UKMC for help with deposit unlock?

Things to consider

What are the benefits?

With deposit unlock, it’s possible to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit, meaning you can become a property owner sooner. The lower threshold makes the market place easier to access for first-time buyers too.
There are plenty of house builders – specifically, more than 30 – participating in the deposit unlock scheme. It’s important to note, however, that not every property they build is eligible for the scheme.
The scheme provides access to competitively priced mortgages, which is advantageous for those looking to secure favourable interest rates.
There are lots of reasons why that’s a good thing. Most new builds are more energy efficient, and have modern features and/or amenities. They also have builder warranties and guarantees that provide peace of mind about construction quality.

What are the risks?

Although the deposit unlock scheme is associated with lower deposits, it also has higher interest rates associated because you’ll likely be borrowing 95% of a home’s value for the mortgage. With smaller deposits, there is also a higher risk of negative equity if the property’s value decreases.
While you have access to new-build homes with this scheme, it’s also the case that you can only access its benefits through participating home builders and mortgage lenders.
Since the loan to value will sit at around 95% you could end up in what is called ‘negative equity’. This means you owe the lender more than the current property value.

Frequently asked questions

First-time buyers or those moving home are eligible for the deposit unlock scheme. You must be between the ages of 18 and 75, be a UK citizen or have Indefinite Leave To Remain, as well as 12 months of employment history. You must also pass the lender’s affordability checks, which includes having a suitable credit score as determined by the lender.
Lenders normally don’t offer 95% mortgages on new builds, but this scheme permits people to buy one with just a 5% deposit. The house builder decreases the lender’s risk by insuring the mortgage. Deposit unlock is relatively new to the market, and can only be accessed through a few named lenders. It can also only be used with certain house builders and on eligible developments or properties. Contacting an experienced mortgage advisor, like UKMC, can give you access to exclusive deals and better rates, so why not book an appointment with a member of our team?

HOW TO APPLY FOR Shared Ownership

01

Check your eligibility

First, check that you’re eligible to purchase a property using the Shared Ownership Scheme. You can do this by asking your mortgage advisor or by reading the relevant government guidance.

02

Find a property

Next, you’ll have to find a suitable shared ownership home that you like in your desired location. As with any property you’re interested in, you should view the home, make sure you’re eligible, and ensure you can afford the property.

03

Reserve the home

You’ll be asked to pay a reservation fee to the landlord of up to £500. This secures the property for a fixed period and the amount is deducted from the final amount you pay on completion day. If you do not buy the home, you won’t usually get the fee back (check with the landlord before you reserve).

04

Contact the professionals

A mortgage advisor will help you to secure the most appropriate mortgage for your current needs and circumstances from a selection of lenders and understand your mortgage offer, while a solicitor or conveyancer will handle the process of ownership transfer.

What Is The Criteria To Apply?

To be eligible for the deposit unlock scheme, you will need to be a first-time buyer or a home mover.
You will also need to have a minimum deposit of at least 5%.
At UKMC, our team of mortgage advisors are always ready to assist with your queries. Whether you want to find out more information about the deposit unlock scheme, or simply want advice relating to your own personal situation, we can help.

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