Top tips for buying your first home as a solo buyer

There’s something quietly satisfying about turning the key in a door that’s all yours. No one else’s furniture, no compromises on design, just a home that fits the way you live.

Solo home buying is on the rise. In fact, in 2024, 47% of first-time buyers purchased a property alone and the trend is only increasing.

While going it alone means you have full control over the decisions, it also means taking full responsibility for the finances, the decision-making and everything that comes after the move. To help you feel more confident as you start your search, here are some straightforward, practical tips for buying your first home on your own.

1. Check what you can afford before falling in love with a home

Lenders base your mortgage on a single income, so it’s important to be clear on what you can borrow early. Use a new homes mortgage calculator for a rough guide, then speak to a mortgage advisor who can give you a more accurate picture based on your income, deposit, and any existing commitments.

It’s also worth thinking about what monthly mortgage repayments feel comfortable, not just what a lender is willing to offer. Then, once you factor in things like council tax, utilities, service charges and day-to-day living costs, the most expensive home you can buy might not be the right one for you. A bit of breathing room each month could matter more than an extra bedroom you never use.

2. Look for homes that are move-in ready and low stress

One of the benefits of buying new is the peace of mind it offers and taking care of a home on your own is easier when everything’s in good shape from the start. This is because there’s no outdated wiring or hidden leaks to worry about, and your appliances, fixtures and fittings are all brand new.

Some new build homes also include energy-efficient features like solar panels, double or triple glazing and electric car chargers. This can help reduce your running costs and cut down on maintenance tasks, which is especially helpful when you’re the only one responsible for them.

3. Think beyond location and price

When buying solo, the practical day-to-day details matter. Consider how far the parking space is from your front door, whether there is decent lighting around the street if you come home after dark and if you can fit in a desk if you work from home.

It’s also important to think about access to the nearest supermarket, pharmacy or GP for everyday convenience. If you don’t drive, make sure you check for regular buses or nearby train stations for commuting and if you do, consider access to major A-roads and motorways.

4. Plan for the future, not just today 

It’s easy to look for a home that suits you right now, but think about what might change. Job changes, lifestyle adjustments or personal milestones can all influence how well your home works for you down the line.

Even if you're not sure what comes next, choosing a home with flexibility built in can give you more options in the future. That could be an extra bedroom that doubles as a workspace, a private garden that adds long-term value, or simply a location with strong resale potential if you decide to move on.

5. Explore support for first time buyers

You’re buying on your own, but you don’t need to do everything alone. Friends or family can be a helpful sounding board, especially when you're comparing properties or second-guessing decisions. A good mortgage broker can also make a big difference, particularly one who understands the local market and which lenders are more open to solo applications.

If affordability is a concern, it’s worth exploring shared ownership schemes or first-time buyer schemes. At Tilia Homes, we partner with The New Homes Mortgage Helpline who can guide you through your options early on, giving you a clearer view of what’s possible before you commit.

Looking for a home that works for solo living? 

Tilia Homes builds carefully considered new build homes across the UK, with many ideal for solo first-time buyers.

Explore our available new build developments here or visit our first time buyer hub for even more top tips and advice.