(Older) but First Time Buyer

addis

I currently live and work abroad for most of the year but would like to buy a small flat (new builds appear to offer most competitive deals?) which I would like to live in whilst in UK and rent when I am not. I have never owned property in the UK so wonder if there are there still benefits for first time buyers of my age? I run a small non profit charity for students if that offers any further advantages....

princessamy86

Some councils offer grants for deposits, have a google to find what's available in your area. Renting for part of the year can be difficult, who is going to keep an eye on the place while you are not here, what if they trash the place, have you got enough money to cover void periods etc etc the list goes one. You need to seriously read up on your obligations as a landlord, and remember that just because you have served notice on a tenant to leave after x months, it doesn't mean they will go and then you could be homeless.

Jowo_2

The DirectGov website lists the various home ownership schemes, none of which as far as I know, will give you any credit for operating a business, even a not for profit one, some of which may have properties where there could be a restriction on the owner letting the property but you'd need to check.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/BuyingAndSellingYourHome/HomeBuyingSchemes/DG_4001347