Government Help For First Time Home Buyers   (2022)

“LIFT” The Open Market Shared Equity Scheme

Through the Scottish Government’s Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (“LIFT”), applicants can receive up to 40% funding towards the price of a home on the open market.

The scheme is administered on behalf of the Scottish Government by Link Housing.

• The Scottish Government contributes between 10% and 40% towards the price of a home you have chosen on the open market.

• When the property is sold, 30% of the sale price would be returned to the Scottish Government.

• In most areas you can increase your equity share to 100% over time if you choose to do so.

• The Scottish Government’s contribution depends on the amount of mortgage you  can  get compared to the value of the property that meets your needs. Size and price thresholds apply.

The LIFT scheme is open to first time buyers, social renters, people with a disability who can demonstrate a housing need, members of the armed forces, veterans who have left the armed forces within the last two years, widows, widowers and other partners of service personnel who have lost their life while serving in the armed forces within the last two years, and people aged over 60 who can demonstrate a housing need .

If you can raise more than 90% of the value of the property, you will not be eligible for the scheme.   

As you might expect, there are terms and conditions.

As a first-time property buyer, you will need legal/conveyancing assistance and contacting a solicitor is a great place to start.

You are welcome to contact us HERE