What is the First Homes scheme and how does it work?

The Government-backed First Homes scheme is designed to assist first-time buyers in purchasing their first home for 30% to 50% less than the market price. The same discounted percentage will also be available to future eligible first-time buyers when that same home is sold, ensuring that the home is always available below market value. The First Homes scheme is only available in England.

First Homes logo

Am I eligible for the First Homes scheme?

To be eligible for the First Homes scheme, you, and any co-purchasers, must be:
a)    18 or older;
b)    a first-time buyer; and
c)    able to get a mortgage for at least half the price of the home, and the total income of the household must be no more than £80,000, or £90,000 if you live in London.

You must also be able to meet any eligibility criteria set by the relevant local authority - for example, some councils may prioritise giving First Homes discounts to:
-    essential workers;
-    people who already live in the area; and/or,
-    those on lower incomes.

Further eligibility criteria can be found in the Terms and Conditions at the bottom of this page.

Not eligible for the First Homes scheme?

If you're not eligible for the First Homes scheme, there are other ways we could help you purchase your dream Cala home as a first-time buyer. Unlock home ownership with the Deposit Unlock scheme which allows you to buy a Cala home with as little as a 5% deposit. Or, Own New's Rate Reducer could be your key to homeownership with access to lower mortgage interest rates.

Find out more about our first-time buyer schemes below:
First-time buyer guide

Advice and incentives to help you make your first move

If you're not eligible for the First Homes scheme and you're a first-time buyer, Cala can still help. 


Why buy a new home from Cala?

There’s nothing quite like moving into a brand-new home. From newly installed kitchens and bathrooms to the peace of mind of knowing that your property is safe, energy efficient and low maintenance.

What’s more, you’re buying a complete blank canvas on which to stamp your own individual style. Take a look at our top reasons to buy a new home below.

Less Maintenance

Opting for a new build home means less maintenance and cost compared to older houses. Modern construction ensures durability, minimising the need for constant repairs. Enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle and the peace of mind that your home is designed for longevity, freeing up your time and money for what matters most.

Purchase your home from a plan and tailor it to your own individual taste. Choose from a range of high-quality kitchens and bathrooms, with customisable styles, colors, and finishes that reflect your personal preferences.

Your new home is covered by an NHBC or similar industry-regulated insurance scheme covering the structural integrity of your new home from years three to 10.

The first two years of the warranty is provided by us. This means we take responsibility for fixing any quality issues during this period after you move in. We also provide you a 24-hour response service for emergency calls. We take personal pride in our customer service.

Homeowners | NHBC


Peace of Mind Built In

A new build home allows you to make it your own. When you move into a new home, there’s no need to live with other people’s decorating disasters! Your light, spacious and neutral interior is the perfect blank canvas on which to create a home to suit your individual taste and lifestyle.

Choosing a new home means embracing advanced energy efficiency. With superior insulation and modern energy-saving features, your new property outperforms older homes, ensuring not just comfort but also cost savings over time. Make a smart investment in a home that aligns with contemporary standards for sustainable living.


Tackle Energy Use

Prioritising prime locations, we meticulously select sustainable sites that offer convenient access to local schools, amenities, and robust transport links. Our focus on strategic placement ensures that your new home is not just a residence but a gateway to a well-connected and vibrant community. Choose the advantage of a location that complements your lifestyle while contributing to the long-term value of your investment.

Experience a chain-free move with our Part Exchange service. Say goodbye to the complications of being stuck in a chain, saving both time and money. Discover more about this hassle-free option and explore the convenience through our Part Exchange calculator.


Cala's up to 100% Part Exchange Service

Rest assured in the safety of your new home. Built with the safety in mind, our new homes comply with the latest Health and Safety standards and feature modern consumer units, well-positioned sockets, multi-point locks, and mains-powered smoke alarms. Your peace of mind is a priority, and our commitment to safety ensures that your home is a secure haven for you and your family.

Join a vibrant new community when you choose one of our developments. Whether showcasing modern or traditional architecture, our designs are crafted to nurture a strong sense of community. Experience the satisfaction of becoming a valued part of a neighborhood where connection and camaraderie thrive.

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