The Forces Help to Buy (FHTB) scheme is designed to help eligible members of the UK Armed Forces buy a home.

It provides an interest-free loan that can be used towards buying a property, making homeownership more accessible for some service personnel.

The scheme isn’t a mortgage itself, so you’ll still need to meet a lender’s affordability and lending criteria.

If you’re a first time buyer in Scunthorpe, the scheme could help you take your first step onto the property ladder sooner.

How Does the Forces Help to Buy Scheme Work?

Forces Help to Buy is administered by the Ministry of Defence. If you’re eligible, you can apply for an interest-free loan and repay it through deductions from your salary over an agreed period.

The loan can be used towards your house purchase, including your deposit and certain costs associated with buying a home. This can reduce the amount you need to save before applying for a mortgage.

Although the scheme can make buying a property more affordable, you’ll still need to budget for your mortgage payments as well as your FHTB repayments.

Who Can Apply?

The scheme is available to eligible members of the Regular Armed Forces who meet the Ministry of Defence’s criteria. This includes minimum service requirements and a set amount of time remaining in service.

The eligibility rules are reviewed from time to time, so it’s worth checking the latest guidance before applying.

Getting a Mortgage With Forces Help to Buy

Using the Forces Help to Buy scheme doesn’t guarantee you’ll be accepted for a mortgage. Every lender has its own criteria and will assess your application individually.

If you’re buying a home in Scunthorpe, a lender will look at your income, credit history, regular spending and overall affordability. They’ll also consider the property you’re buying and the size of your deposit.

Some lenders may have different requirements for applicants using the scheme. Comparing your options before you apply can make a real difference to the products available.

Buying Your First Home in Scunthorpe

The Forces Help to Buy scheme has helped thousands of service personnel purchase their first home.

For first time buyers in Scunthorpe, it can reduce one of the biggest barriers to buying a property by lowering the amount you need to save upfront.

Before you start viewing homes in Scunthorpe, it’s worth working out your overall budget.

An Agreement in Principle can also give you a better idea of how much you may be able to borrow, helping you focus on properties that fit your price range.

Using the scheme alongside the right mortgage can make the buying process much more straightforward, provided you meet both the Ministry of Defence’s rules and your chosen lender’s criteria.

Date Last Edited: July 27, 2026