Forces Friday – Making the Most of the Forces Help to Buy Scheme

Buying your first home is a huge step — and for those serving in the Armed Forces, it often comes with a few extra hurdles and unique opportunities.

The Forces Help to Buy (FHTB) scheme is designed to make that step easier and to encourage members of the Armed Forces to access the property market. It allows eligible service personnel to borrow up to 50% of their annual salary (to a maximum of £25,000), interest-free, to put towards a deposit or other purchase costs.

This can be a lifeline for those who’ve moved frequently or never had the chance to build up savings for a deposit due to postings and service life.

However, before applying, it’s important to understand how it fits into your wider financial plan:

✅ You’ll need at least six months of service remaining when you apply.

✅ Meet the relevant qualifying criteria

Of course, there is limits to the scheme.

❌ It can’t be used to purchase a ‘buy to let’ property

❌ It can’t be used to purchase a second home

Repayments will come directly from your salary, so make sure this is factored into your affordability calculations.

Used properly, the FHTB scheme can help you get on the ladder sooner and start building long-term financial stability — but timing and preparation are key.

If you’re considering using the Forces Help to Buy scheme, it’s worth reviewing your options early to ensure the property, mortgage, and repayment plan all align with your goals.

To discuss how FHTB could work for you, email me at andy.daw@wdanda.com and we can explore your next steps.

#ForcesFriday #MilitaryFinance #ForcesHelpToBuy #MilitaryMortgages

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP WITH REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 20 Oct 25.