Homes England - First Homes Early Delivery Programme 2021-23

First Homes is a major Government priority and will support eligible first-time buyers to buy a home for a discount of at least 30% compared to the open market price.

On 1 April, Government published its response to the latest consultation on First Homes, which reaffirmed its commitment that 25% of affordable homes delivered through developer contributions in future should be First Homes. The response also included more detail on the design of and eligibility for First Homes. Government has also published a Written Ministerial statement and further guidance which will enable First Homes to be delivered through planning.

In advance of delivery through the planning system, this procurement is for a First Homes Early delivery programme for 2021-23 that will deliver an estimated 1,500 First Homes for sale in England (excluding London), with the first purchaser legal completions anticipated from end of 2021 calendar year. The early delivery programme will provide learning to Homes England and MHCLG to assist the further national implementation of First Homes which will deliver at scale via the planning system.

The current and foreseeable levels of affordability challenges faced by first time buyers means that First Homes sold at a 30% discount are likely to be attractive. The national eligibility framework for buyers and the future planning changes will eventually deliver this product at scale through the planning system.