homeownership mortgage
Am I a &quot;first-time buyer&quot;?
<p>There's probably a very short and simple answer to this, but I have to ask anyway. I VERY briefly owned a house over 12 years ago (I think for less than 12 months). Is there any way I could still be considered a &quot;first time&quot; buyer in the UK?</p>
<p>I know, the obviously answer is &quot;no&quot;, but I need to ask. Thanks.</p>

<p>Since the OP mentions the UK, I assume the question refers to the UK government-sponsored &quot;help to buy&quot; scheme. See <a href="https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk/" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk/</a>.</p>
<p>The FAQ gives a summary of the definition as</p>
<blockquote>
<p>A first time buyer is someone who does not own, and has never owned, a
home anywhere in the UK or the world.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>For the full definition, see the declaration you are required to make at <a href="https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk/documents/2015/12/eligibility-of-ftbs.pdf/" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk/documents/2015/12/eligibility-of-ftbs.pdf/</a></p>
<p>Note that the above scheme was closed <em>to new applicants</em> at the end of November 2019. However members of the scheme from before that date can continue to use it until November 2029.</p>
<p>Also, note that some mortgage lenders may offer other &quot;first time buyer assistance&quot; finance deals apart from this one.</p>
