At Indigo Greens, one of the questions we hear time and time again is: “How do I even begin the process of buying my first home in York?”
We completely understand — with rising house prices and strong competition, getting your foot on the property ladder can feel overwhelming. But it isn’t impossible, and the best place to start is preparation.
One of the most important steps you can take right now, long before you even book your first property viewing, is making sure your credit profile is in good shape.
Your credit score can have a huge impact on your ability to secure a mortgage, especially as a first-time buyer. The good news? There are practical steps you can take today to improve it, for example:
Register on the Electoral Roll
This is one of the easiest yet most important steps. Being registered helps lenders verify your identity and address history.
Be Consistent with Personal Details
Ensure your name, address, and postcode are accurate across all accounts and documents. Small inconsistencies, like using 'Ben' instead of 'Benjamin' or missing a flat number, can cause delays or issues.
Maintain a Stable Address History
Where possible, avoid frequent moves in the years leading up to your mortgage application. A consistent address history can help streamline the process.
Avoid Pay-Day Loans
These loans often signal to lenders that you’re struggling financially, which could affect your chances of securing a mortgage.
Every mortgage lender operates slightly differently and uses information from one or more of the main credit reference agencies: Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. There are no guaranteed rules, but following the steps, like the ones above, could give you a stronger foundation when preparing to buy your first home.
Need More Guidance?
If you want tailored financial advice or a deeper understanding of your credit profile, we always recommend speaking to a qualified mortgage adviser. We often suggest Yorkshire Life Financial Services — they’re local, experienced, and can be reached on 01904 890 242 or via www.ylfs.co.uk.
When you’re ready to start your home-buying journey, be sure to explore our Process of Buying a Property guide — designed to help you feel confident and prepared at every stage.
