Securing a mortgage is one of the biggest financial steps first time buyers will take, and knowing where to start can make all the difference. With the right approach and expert support, you can avoid common pitfalls, access better mortgage deals, and get the keys to your new home with confidence.
Before applying for a mortgage, it’s important to understand your financial position. Lenders will look at your income, outgoings, and credit history to decide how much they’re willing to lend. Having a higher deposit, typically 10% or more,can open the door to better rates, but if you have a 5% deposit, there are still plenty of options available.
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is assuming they won’t qualify for a mortgage before checking what’s actually possible. That’s where our mortgage advisors can help. We assess your full financial picture, including lenders’ different criteria, to help you find a mortgage that suits your situation.
Your credit score plays a big role in how lenders view your application. A strong score can help secure better interest rates, while a lower one might limit your choices. To improve your chances, make sure you’re registered on the electoral roll, keep up with bill payments, and try to reduce outstanding debts. If you’re unsure where you stand, checking your credit report for any errors and fixing them is a good place to start.
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Lenders each have their own criteria, and a rejection from one doesn’t mean others won’t approve you. Rather than risking multiple applications, which can harm your credit score, speaking to mortgage advisors first means you’ll be matched with lenders that are more likely to say yes.
Understanding how much you can borrow is essential before house hunting. While online mortgage calculators can give a rough estimate, they don’t account for lenders’ different affordability checks.
Our mortgage advisors take a detailed look at your finances and compare options across the market to give you a clear and realistic idea of your budget. This helps you focus on properties that match your borrowing potential.
An Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a key step in the mortgage process. This initial confirmation from a lender gives an estimate of how much they may be willing to lend based on a soft credit check. While not a formal mortgage offer, it strengthens your position when making an offer on a property, as estate agents and sellers often prefer buyers who already have an AIP.
Getting an AIP yourself can be time-consuming, especially as different lenders have different requirements. We take care of this for you, securing an AIP within 24 hours of your free initial appointment, so you can start house hunting swiftly and with confidence.
With so many mortgage options available, choosing the right one isn’t always straightforward. Fixed, rate mortgages offer stability, while tracker or variable rate options may provide flexibility but come with the risk of payments increasing. Finding the best mortgage deal isn’t just about the interest rate, it’s also about the terms, fees, and how it fits your long, term plans.
Instead of spending hours comparing offers or going directly to a bank that only provides its own products, working with our mortgage advisors gives you access to a wide range of lenders, including deals that aren’t available publicly. We do the research, compare rates, and find the best mortgage for your needs saving you time, and stress.
Once you’ve had an offer accepted on a property, it’s time to submit your mortgage application. The lender will carry out detailed affordability checks, review your documents, and arrange a valuation of the property. Any missing paperwork or incorrect details could slow things down or even lead to a declined application.
We take care of this for you, making sure everything is in order before submitting your application. By working with us, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and improve your chances of securing the mortgage you need.
With a mortgage offer in place, the final legal steps begin. Your solicitor will handle contract exchanges and set a completion date, after which the mortgage funds will be released, and you’ll officially own your new home.
The mortgage process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, it can be smooth and stress,free. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, or remortgaging, our mortgage advisors are here to help you every step of the way. Get in touch today, and let’s find the right mortgage for you.
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