The Forces Help to Buy (FHTB) scheme is a fantastic opportunity for military personnel to get onto the property ladder — but what if you’re not a full-time regular service member? Can Reservists or MOD civilians take advantage of the scheme?
I’m Ollie Cleverly, mortgage adviser at Connect Mortgage Services and a former RAF serviceman. We often get asked about who qualifies for FHTB — and what alternatives are available if you don’t. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Eligible for Forces Help to Buy?
FHTB is open to:
- Regular personnel in the Army, Navy, RAF or Marines
- Those who have served at least 2 years
- Personnel with at least 6 months left to serve at the time of application
Unfortunately, this does not include:
- Reservists (part-time or volunteer forces)
- MOD civilians or contractors
Ollie says: “We get a lot of interest from reservists and MOD staff who assume they qualify — but FHTB is strictly for regular service members. That said, there are other ways we can help.”
Why Aren’t Reservists or MOD Civilians Eligible?
The scheme was designed to support the housing needs of full-time personnel who may move frequently or face unique challenges securing long-term accommodation. Because reservists and MOD civilians are not subject to the same posting requirements or contract structures, they fall outside the eligibility criteria.
What Are the Alternatives for Reservists and MOD Civilians?
Just because FHTB isn’t available doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many reservists and MOD staff are still in a strong position to buy — and there are other schemes that may help:
- Lifetime ISA (LISA)
- Available to first-time buyers aged 18–39
- Government adds a 25% bonus to your savings
- Can be used for deposit on a property up to £450,000
- Shared Ownership
- Buy a portion of a property and pay rent on the rest
- Lower deposit required
- Often available on new-builds and affordable housing schemes
- First Homes Scheme
- Discounted properties for key workers and first-time buyers
- Some local authorities include MOD staff as eligible workers
- Traditional Mortgages
- If you have a solid income, stable job, and deposit, you can access the full mortgage market
- We work with lenders who understand public sector roles and MOD employment contracts
Ollie adds: “MOD civilians often have excellent job security and credit profiles — we’ve helped many secure mortgages without needing a scheme like FHTB.”
Can Reservists Still Apply for a Mortgage Easily?
Yes — and often on very favourable terms. If you’re:
- In steady civilian employment
- Using your reservist income as secondary
- Building a good credit history
Then most mainstream lenders will consider your application like any other civilian borrower. Some may even factor in your additional income if it’s consistent.
Real-Life Example
A reservist who also works full-time in cybersecurity approached us for mortgage advice. While they weren’t eligible for FHTB, they used a Lifetime ISA to boost their deposit and secured a 90% LTV mortgage with a high-street lender. The result? A new home close to both their workplace and training unit.
Final Thoughts
FHTB might not be available for reservists or MOD civilians — but you’re far from out of luck. There are plenty of other tools and schemes that can help you buy your first (or next) home.
At Connect Mortgage Services, we understand the nuances of working in and around defence. Whether you’re full-time, part-time, or civilian support, we’ll help you find the right path to homeownership.
Got questions about your eligibility or mortgage options? Let’s talk.
