The Mortgage Business Expo (MBE) London 2025 held a seminar on supporting first-time buyers (FTBs) today (14th October 2025).
The seminar was chaired by Rob Barnard, intermediary relationships director at Pepper Money.
The panel included David Castling, head of intermediary distribution at Atom Bank, James Brifitt, head of intermediary sales and new build at Nationwide Building Society, and Rachel Hunniset, director of mortgage distribution at April Mortgages.
The panel discussed the important role of family wealth in helping FTBs and noted a shift in Shared Ownership schemes.
Affordability was a key issue, with debate around stretching incomes while balancing long-term protection for borrowers.
FTBs were described as a more vulnerable group needing extra support, advice, and education.
There were also calls for mandatory advice processes for FTBs and for mortgage finance to be introduced into the school curriculum.
Additionally, the panel said policy changes are needed to support FTBs, such as reviewing property tax and helping downsizers free up suitable properties.
The audience reported a slowdown in FTB enquiries and said the looming Budget was making the process more daunting for buyers.
The panel highlighted the importance of education on products like the Lifetime ISA (LISA) and better saving habits, as many young buyers are not taking full advantage of available schemes.
High deposit requirements and the challenges of renting were also raised.
Furthermore, there was a strong appetite for innovation in the sector to better support FTBs going forward.
