Brentwood is one of Essex’s most desirable commuter towns, offering a mix of countryside charm and fast rail links into London Liverpool Street and the new Elizabeth Line. With a lively high street, excellent schools, and easy access to both London and the Essex countryside, it’s no surprise that first-time buyers are increasingly looking at Brentwood, Shenfield, Hutton and Ingatestone. This guide explains how to prepare for your first purchase in the area.
Why First-Time Buyers Are Choosing Brentwood
Brentwood strikes the perfect balance between London accessibility and suburban living. The Elizabeth Line has boosted demand from young professionals, while families value the highly rated schools and green surroundings. Though prices are higher than in some Essex towns, they remain lower than London suburbs such as Stratford or Ilford.
Step 1 – Work Out Affordability
Most lenders offer 4–4.5 times your income. Examples:
- £40,000 single salary = £160,000–£180,000 borrowing
- £75,000 joint salary = £300,000–£337,500 borrowing
Adding a 10% deposit increases your budget further. Test your affordability with our mortgage calculators or visit our First-Time Buyer Mortgages page.
Step 2 – Deposit and Buying Costs
5% deposits are accepted by some lenders, but 10%–15% opens better products. Don’t forget to budget for:
- Stamp Duty: No duty up to £425,000 for first-time buyers
- Legal fees: £1,000–£1,800
- Survey costs: £300–£700
- Moving costs: £500–£1,500+
Step 3 – Prepare Documents
Lenders usually require:
- 3 months of payslips and bank statements
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Self-employed: SA302s and 2 years of accounts (sometimes 1 year accepted)
Step 4 – Popular Mortgage Options
- Fixed-rate: Certainty for 2–5 years
- Tracker: Variable, linked to base rate
- 95% LTV: Low deposit, higher rates
- Family-assisted: Guarantor or gifted deposit support
Step 5 – Government Help
- First Homes scheme: Discounted new-builds for locals
- Shared ownership: Buy part, rent part
- Lifetime ISA: 25% government bonus
Step 6 – Brentwood Property Market
- Shenfield: Highly sought-after for commuters, with Elizabeth Line services
- Hutton: Family homes and good schools
- Ingatestone: Village lifestyle with character homes
- Central Brentwood: Flats and terraces close to shops and nightlife
Step 7 – EPC Ratings
Energy-efficient homes are more mortgage-friendly. Many older Brentwood homes may need upgrades to insulation, heating, or windows.
Step 8 – Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Having an AIP shows sellers you are proceedable, strengthening your negotiating position.
Step 9 – Work With Local Experts
- Solicitors: Conveyancing
- Surveyors: Condition reports
- Mortgage advisers: Help compare lenders
Brentwood First-Time Buyer FAQs
What’s the minimum deposit in Brentwood?
5%, though 10%–15% gives better choice and lower rates.
Do I pay Stamp Duty?
No duty up to £425,000, with relief up to £625,000.
How long does buying take?
Typically 8–12 weeks depending on the chain.
Which areas are popular with first-time buyers?
Shenfield for commuters, Hutton for families, Ingatestone for village life, central Brentwood for professionals.
Next Steps
Buying your first home in Brentwood is achievable with the right planning. Visit our First-Time Buyer Mortgages page or request a callback to be connected with an FCA-regulated adviser.