Helping brokers support the next generation of first-time buyers
We are delighted to confirm that we will be supporting first-time buyers who want to use the Scottish Government’s new First Homes Fund, helping more people across Scotland move closer to owning their first home.
Expected to open for applications by the end of June, the scheme will provide a £10,000 shared equity contribution towards homes valued up to £300,000. For many first-time buyers, this support could make an important difference by easing affordability pressures and helping them take that next step with greater confidence.
Our aim is simple: to give brokers practical guidance, direct access to specialist support and a lending approach that looks at each case on its own merits.
Dedicated support - meet Catherine Johnstone
Catherine Johnstone will lead our First Homes Fund support for brokers, offering specialist guidance, practical help and insight into how the scheme can work for different client circumstances.
Whether a broker is placing their first case through the scheme or working through a more complex scenario, Catherine and our intermediary team will be available to provide support at each stage of the mortgage journey.
First Homes Fund clinics for brokers
To help brokers prepare with confidence, we will host a programme of dedicated First Homes Fund clinics across Scotland.
These sessions will offer practical guidance on eligibility, affordability, property requirements, application packaging and more complex case scenarios. They will also include frequently asked questions, real case examples and live Q&A opportunities.
By sharing practical examples and answering questions directly, the clinics are designed to help brokers feel ready to place business from day one.
A flexible approach to first-time buyer lending
Our approach is built around common-sense lending and personal service. Applications are assessed on their individual merits, not by automated credit scoring, and every case is considered by experienced underwriters.
Brokers can speak directly to decision makers throughout the mortgage journey, helping them discuss scenarios clearly and get the right support for clients whose circumstances may not fit a standard model.
With more than 175 years of experience supporting home ownership across Scotland, we bring local knowledge, flexible underwriting and dedicated intermediary support together in one place.
Creating opportunities for a new generation of homeowners
The First Homes Fund is about more than a mortgage. It is about opening doors for people who are ready to buy their first home but may need extra support to get there.
At Scottish Building Society, we are committed to helping brokers turn that opportunity into successful outcomes for their clients. Through practical guidance, specialist expertise and a personal approach to lending, we want to help more people buy their own home.
Brokers who would like to find out more about our First Homes Fund support can speak to Catherine Johnstone or contact the Scottish Building Society intermediary team.