Help to Buy Mortgage Rates (UK)
Current market ranges, deposit expectations, and common fee patterns for help to buy mortgages in one place.
Indicative figures only - lender pricing changes frequently and depends on case complexity.
Rate Overview
Typical market range for help to buy mortgage pricing.
Typical rate range
4.0% - 5.5%
3.5% - 6.5%
Typical deposit
5%
Min 5%
Typical timeline
4-8 weeks
Application to completion
Rates are indicative, not a quote. Final pricing depends on lender criteria, LTV, rental profile, and borrower background.
What Moves Your Rate Up or Down
These are the strongest factors lenders weigh when setting pricing.
- Government equity loan up to 20% (40% in London)
- 5% deposit requirement
- Interest-free for first 5 years
- Available for new build properties
- First-time buyer eligibility
Fee Breakdown
Common charges to plan for alongside the headline rate.
Arrangement Fee
Lender product fee
£0 - £1,999
often added to loan
Valuation Fee
Property survey
£0 - £1,500
sometimes free with lender
Legal Fees
Conveyancing costs
£800 - £1,500
plus disbursements
Broker Fee
Advice and arrangement
£0 - £500
some brokers are fee-free
Rate FAQs
Quick answers to common pricing questions.
What is the Help to Buy equity loan scheme?+
The Help to Buy equity loan is a government scheme that provides an equity loan of up to 20% (40% in London) of the property value, allowing you to buy with just a 5% deposit. The loan is interest-free for the first 5 years.
How does the equity loan work?+
The government provides an equity loan that you don't pay interest on for the first 5 years. After 5 years, you pay interest at 1.75% per year, increasing annually by inflation. You can repay the loan at any time.
Can I repay the equity loan early?+
Yes, you can repay the equity loan at any time, either in full or in part (minimum 10% of the property's current value). Early repayment can help reduce your overall costs.
What are the fees for Help to Buy?+
Help to Buy fees include a £1 reservation fee, legal fees, and mortgage arrangement fees. There are no fees for the equity loan itself, though you'll pay interest after 5 years.
Can I get Help to Buy if I have adverse credit?+
Some lenders may consider Help to Buy applications for borrowers with minor credit issues, though the criteria may be stricter. You'll need to demonstrate that you can afford the mortgage payments.