Help to Buy Government Scheme – Things You Need to Know in 2025

If you are a first-time buyer navigating the world of home buying and need help, the Help to Buy Government Scheme was introduced specifically for this purpose. It continues to support buyers through schemes like the Help to Buy scheme and the First Homes Scheme introduced in 2025. From high deposit requirements to complex mortgage processes, getting onto the property ladder isn’t easy, so we will break down the schemes available in 2025 to help you buy your first home, whether it’s a new-build home or a property built by a housing association.

What Is the Help to Buy Scheme?

The Help to Buy scheme was a government-backed scheme launched to help first-time buyers buy a home with a smaller deposit. The original Help to Buy equity loan allowed buyers to purchase a new home with just 5% down, with up to 20% (or 40% in London) lent by the government.

Update for June 2025

The original equity loan scheme ended in 2023, but new and alternative buyer schemes have emerged to replace Help to Buy.

Buyer Schemes Available in 2025

Here are the first-time buyer schemes available right now to help you purchase a property in 2025.

First Homes Scheme

The First Homes Scheme offers newly built properties at a discount of 30% to 50% off the market value. Designed to help first-time buyers and key workers, this will help you stay close to work and family.

• Only available on a first homes property.
• Local councils may prioritise giving first-home discounts to eligible buyers.
• You must be a first-time buyer and meet income limits.

Ideal if you want to buy a home at a discount and meet the eligibility criteria as a local or key worker.

Rent to Buy

The Rent to Buy program allows you to rent a home at a reduced rate while saving toward a deposit to purchase a home.

• Often offered by Housing Associations.
• Great for building savings while living in the home you plan to buy.

Ideal if you need time to save but want to start the journey to home ownership now.

Lifetime ISA (LISA)

With the Lifetime ISA, first-time buyers can save up to £4,000 per year, and the government adds a 25% bonus—up to £1,000 annually.

• Funds can be used to buy your first home.
• Must be aged 18–39 to open an account.
• The Government will top up your savings each year.

Ideal if you are saving for your first home and want free money from the government.

Mortgage Guarantee Scheme

Introduced to help first-time buyers, this government scheme enables lenders to offer 95% mortgage products.

• Helps buyers with just a 5% deposit.
• Available on properties up to £600,000.
• Only applies to repayment mortgages (not interest-only).

Ideal if you want to buy a new home with a small deposit and secure a good deal from a lender.

Who Is Eligible for Help to Buy and Other Buyer Schemes?

You are a first-time buyer if you have never owned a property before. Most buyer schemes available in 2025 are designed to help people in this category.

To be eligible for Help to Buy or related schemes:

• You must be over 18.
• You must plan to live in the property (not rent it out).
• You must meet income caps and mortgage affordability tests.
• Your chosen property must be a New-Build home in many cases.

Why First-Time Buyer Schemes Matter in 2025

With house prices still high and the average mortgage deposit exceeding £30,000 in some regions, many first-time buyers are turning to government support.

These Buyer Schemes:

• Lower the deposit needed to buy a house.
• Improve mortgage affordability.
• Help people get on the property ladder faster.

Many First-Time Buyers say they would not be able to buy a home without government assistance.

Key Questions About Buyer Schemes in 2025

What if I already used Help to Buy?

If you used the Help to Buy equity loan, remember interest charges apply after five years. You should consult a Mortgage Advisor about repayment options.

Is there a new Help to Buy scheme in 2025?

While the original Help to Buy scheme ended, many new help to buy scheme alternatives exist. These include the First Homes Scheme, Shared Ownership, and the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme.

Can I use multiple schemes?

In most cases, yes. You can combine the Lifetime ISA with Shared Ownership or First Homes, but always check with your lender or Mortgage Broker.

Conclusion

With a range of home buying schemes now available, 2025 is still a strong year for First-Time Buyers to get onto the property ladder. Whatever scheme you decide to go with, there are real options to help you buy your first home. These Government schemes are designed to help people who might otherwise struggle to purchase a home. Are you ready to start your journey? Speak to a mortgage advisor, explore all the buyer schemes available in 2025, and take your first step toward owning your first home.