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On your own

Use Deposit Unlock to buy a new-build at 95% LTV

With the Deposit Unlock scheme, you could purchase a new-build property from a participating home builder with just a 5% house deposit.

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Suitable for buyers & movers

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Buy a new-build with a 5% deposit

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New-build purchases only

How does it work?

Lenders typically don’t offer 95% mortgages on new-builds, as they are viewed as more risky. This scheme allows you to buy one with just a 5% deposit. That’s because the housebuilder reduces the lender’s risk by insuring the mortgage.

Deposit Unlock is a relatively new scheme, and is only available through a few lenders. Plus, it can only be used with participating housebuilders and on eligible developments or properties.

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Things to consider

All mortgages have risks and benefits. Here are some key factors you should know before applying for the Deposit Unlock scheme.

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What are the benefits?

Buy a new build with a small upfront deposit

Lenders typically require a 15%-25% deposit on new-build properties. With Deposit Unlock, you could buy a new build home with just a 5% deposit, meaning that you might be able to buy sooner, or buy a more expensive property.

Access to a wide range of house builders

There are 31 house builders offering the Deposit Unlock scheme - so you’ll have a range of choices when looking for a suitable home. However, not every house they build will be eligible for the scheme.

Buy a brand new home

There are many benefits of buying a new-build. You’ll typically have warranty on all white goods, and you can make significant savings due to excellent energy efficiency.

Risks and considerations

Limited choice of mortgage lenders

There are only three lenders that currently support the Deposit Unlock scheme. This means you’ll have limited choice when choosing a suitable mortgage, and you might not have access to the best interest rates.

The mortgage amount is capped at £750,000

You cannot buy a home that requires a mortgage larger than £750,000, which might be limiting in areas like London or the South West.

Be wary of the new build premium

As the property is no longer ‘brand new’ once you’re in it, the value of a new build can initially fall. If you don’t plan to live in the home for a long time, this means you might end up selling the home for less than you bought it for.

Got questions? We’ve got answers

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Frequently asked questions

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The application process

Get into your very own home in 4 simple steps

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Make a Tembo plan

In under 10-minutes we’ll check your eligibility for Deposit Unlock as well as our other buying schemes. Plus you’ll get a personalised mortgage recommendation including interest rates and repayments.

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Talk to an expert

Book a call with our mortgage experts to complete the qualification process. We’ll cover any questions you might have about Deposit Unlock, and collect more information about your situation.

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Find a property

Now it’s time to find a home! Deposit Unlock is available with over 30 house builders, on selected developments and properties. Your Tembo advisor will support you during the house hunt.

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Make home happen

Once you’ve found an eligible property, we’ll prepare & submit your mortgage application. We’ll then liaise with the developer and your solicitors to ensure a smooth purchase.

Other schemes you might like

Explore our other buying schemes to discover alternative ways to buy.

Part buy part rent

Shared Ownership

Buy a share of a home, and pay rent on the rest. Over time, you can staircase to full ownership.

See details

With a guarantor

Deposit Loan

Boost your deposit with help from family or friends in return for a share of your home.

See details

Family remortgage

Deposit Boost

Unlock a gifted deposit from a loved one’s property to create a house deposit from scratch or top up your existing deposit.

See details

Learn more

Confused about mortgages? Read our guides for expert tips on saving, buying and the market.

See all our guides

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