First-Time Buyer Guide: Getting on the Property Ladder in Islington

Eli Mulla
Sep 5
2 min read

Introduction

Buying your first home is a huge milestone — and in Islington, it can also be a smart investment. This North London borough is famous for its Georgian townhouses, new-build apartments, and buzzing community. But for first-time buyers, navigating the property market, mortgages, and government schemes can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting on the property ladder in Islington in 2025.

1. Understand Islington’s Property Market

Average property price (2025): ~£660,000
First-time buyer flats: One-bed apartments typically start around £450,000–£500,000.
Areas to consider:
- Angel & Clerkenwell – trendy, central, and perfect for professionals.
- Highbury & Canonbury – leafy, family-friendly, and full of period homes.
- Holloway & Archway – more affordable with regeneration potential.

👉 Tip: Prices vary street by street — work with a local estate agent to find hidden gems.

2. Save for Your Deposit

Minimum deposit: 5–10% of the property’s value.
Example: For a £500,000 flat, you’ll need at least £25,000–£50,000.
Help-to-Buy successor schemes (First Homes & Shared Ownership) can lower deposit requirements.

👉 Consider opening a Lifetime ISA (LISA) — you’ll get a 25% government bonus on savings (up to £1,000 a year).

3. Explore Mortgage Options

Fixed-rate mortgages offer security against rising interest rates.
Tracker mortgages follow the Bank of England base rate — worth considering if rates stabilise.
Many lenders now offer first-time buyer exclusive deals with smaller deposits.

👉 Always compare lenders or use a mortgage broker specialising in London properties.

4. Government Schemes for First-Time Buyers

First Homes Scheme: Discounted homes for local first-time buyers and key workers.
Shared Ownership: Buy a share of a property (25%–75%) and pay rent on the rest.
Stamp Duty relief: First-time buyers don’t pay Stamp Duty on homes up to £425,000, with relief available up to £625,000.

5. Factor in Extra Costs

Buying a home isn’t just about the deposit and mortgage. Budget for:

Solicitor/legal fees (£1,000–£2,000)
Mortgage arrangement fees
Valuation/survey fees
Moving costs
Ongoing service charges (for flats)

6. Work With Local Experts

Islington’s property market is competitive and fast-moving. A local estate agent can:

Alert you to properties before they hit the wider market.
Advise on which streets hold value long-term.
Guide you through bidding wars and negotiations.

7. Think Long-Term

Future-proof your choice: Islington is full of one-bed flats, but consider resale value and whether you’ll outgrow the property.
Transport links: Homes near Angel, Highbury & Islington, or Finsbury Park tend to rise in value faster.
Regeneration areas: Holloway and Archway could offer stronger capital growth potential.

Final Thoughts

Getting on the property ladder in Islington isn’t easy, but it’s possible with the right planning. From saving a deposit to using government schemes and working with local experts, you can find the right home in one of London’s most exciting boroughs.

For first-time buyers, Islington offers the perfect balance of lifestyle, connectivity, and investment potential — making that first step onto the ladder well worth the effort.