Could first-time buyers miss out on grants after buying?

The window opens when you buy — and it's short

Andrew Cachia of grants.mt explains the catch: "After purchasing the property, you have a limited amount of time to apply for these. Currently, at this time, there are a lot of grants and incentives for first-time buyers and the window tends to be relatively short."

That's why, as he puts it, "as it currently stands", first-time buyers "have the most to miss out" if they aren't aware of what's available and don't apply in time.

Relief on the deed vs grants you apply for

Not every benefit works the same way. First-time buyer relief on stamp duty is applied by your notary on the deed itself. Grants are different: you apply for them yourself, and each scheme sets its own deadline.

Look before you sign

So the time to find out is before the final deed, not after: list the schemes you may qualify for, note each one's application window, and have the paperwork ready so you can apply as soon as the property is yours.

Buying with a partner? See how grants work for couples. Not sure you qualify at all? Start with whether grants depend on your age or income.

Sources

• Andrew Cachia — Yitaku Asks video (after buying there is a limited time to apply; many grants and incentives currently exist for first-time buyers; the application window tends to be relatively short; first-time buyers have the most to miss out on)
• Individual grant scheme guidelines — application windows vary by scheme