Buying a home or reviewing your mortgage can bring up a lot of questions - some expected, some not so obvious.
This page covers the things we’re asked most often, from how much you can borrow to what happens after your mortgage is approved. It’s designed to give you straightforward answers, without the jargon.
That said, every situation is different. What applies to one person doesn’t always apply to another, especially when it comes to income, deposits, or credit history. If you’re unsure about anything - or just want to sense-check your options - we’re always here for a conversation.
Typically, it takes 8 to 16 weeks. The mortgage offer usually takes 2–4 weeks, while the legal work (conveyancing) takes the remainder of the time.
Ideally before you start viewing properties, so you know exactly what you can afford.
Usually no. Most lenders use a soft search for a DIP, which does not affect your credit score.
Usually proof of income, bank statements, ID and proof of address.
Your bank can only offer its own products. We compare thousands of deals across a wide range of lenders, including some exclusive rates not available directly.
We’re a whole-of-market mortgage and protection adviser offering honest, tailored advice and support from application right through to completion.
On a general basis, you can secure a mortgage with as little as 5% deposit. However, reaching 10% or 15% often unlocks significantly lower interest rates, as you are seen as a lower risk to the lender.
Generally, lenders offer between 4 and 4.5 times your annual gross income. However, we have access to lenders who may go beyond this for certain professionals or higher-earners.
Savings, inheritance, gifted deposits from family, equity from a property sale, or certain government schemes.
Yes. Lenders assess your overall affordability, including loans, childcare and monthly commitments.
Yes. Many lenders will include bonuses, commission and overtime when assessing affordability.
You should also budget for solicitor fees, surveys, Stamp Duty, moving costs and furnishings.
There is no specific number as every lender has their own criteria and your credit history is just part of this. However, a higher score does give you more options.
Absolutely. We guide you through the entire process and explain everything in plain English.
Get a DIP, find a property, submit your application, complete legal work, exchange contracts and then complete.
Yes, up until exchange of contracts. After exchange, you are legally committed.
Remortgaging is switching your mortgage to a new deal, either with your current lender or a new one. You should start the process 6 months before your current deal expires.
You will receive a letter from your lender within 10 working days of completion detailing the exact date and amount.
Yes, we monitor rates up until completion to ensure you take advantage of any potential rate reductions, at no extra cost to you.
Fixed rates stay the same, tracker rates follow the Bank of England base rate, and variable rates can change at the lender’s discretion.
Yes. We help both first-time and portfolio landlords with Buy-to-Let mortgages.
Yes. We work with lenders who specialise in self-employed applicants and more complex income structures.
Most lenders prefer 2 years, but some will consider applications with just 1 year of trading.
Yes. Some lenders use your day rate or contract income rather than traditional accounts.
Yes. Specialist lenders may still consider you depending on your circumstances and deposit size.
Yes, it is a condition of a mortgage to have building insurance and this must be in place at exchange for contracts, as that is when you are legally committed to the purchase.
It covers loss of income due to illness or injury that prevents you from working, providing a tax-free monthly payment, typically 50–70% of your pre-tax income.
Life insurance is designed to pay off your mortgage or support your family financially if you pass away.
It is recommended if anyone relies on you financially, such as a partner or children.
This is the waiting period before your income protection payments begin.
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