News and guides

Information & Guides · 2 November 2024 · 8 min

First-Time Buyer? Overcome Common Myths About Getting on the Property Ladder

For many aspiring homeowners, the journey to buying your first property can feel daunting, and it’s easy to get discouraged by misconceptions that often…

Information & Guides · 1 November 2024 · 7 min

How the 2024 Autumn Budget Impacts Property Owners and Landlords

The Autumn Budget 2024 delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves has significant implications for property owners and landlords, with new measures that could…

Information & Guides · 31 October 2024 · 5 min

🎃 Haunted Mortgages: The Truth Behind the Myths 🎃

As the leaves turn amber and pumpkins appear on doorsteps, it’s hard not to feel a shiver down our spines—Halloween is upon us! And while haunted houses…

Information & Guides · 28 October 2024 · 7 min

Brits Brace for Budget: Anxiety Rises Over Mortgage Impact

With the upcoming Budget causing anxiety for many Brits, it’s a good time to reflect on how potential changes could impact your financial future—especially…

Information & Guides · 26 October 2024 · 8 min

Non-standard construction mortgages: what counts, and how to get one

Most non-standard construction homes can be mortgaged. Here’s what lenders count as non-standard, which types are harder, how PRC certificates work, and how to tell what a house is built from.

Information & Guides · 22 October 2024 · 8 min

One in Five People Targeted by Financial Scams: How to Stay Safe

In the past year, one in five people in the UK have fallen victim to a finance scam, according to a recent survey by Citizens Advice Bureau. As financial…

Information & Guides · 18 October 2024 · 8 min

AVM valuations: what an automated valuation model means for your mortgage

An AVM is a computer valuation lenders use instead of sending a surveyor. Here’s how AVMs work, when lenders use them for remortgages and purchases, and what to do if the figure comes back too low.

Information & Guides · 16 October 2024 · 9 min

Mortgage underwriters: what they check, how long it takes and why they ask for more

Underwriting typically takes a few days to two weeks, with an offer usually 2–4 weeks after applying. What underwriters check, why they keep asking for more information, and how to speed it up.

Information & Guides · 14 October 2024 · 11 min

First-time buyer checklist: how to get mortgage-ready, step by step

Getting mortgage-ready takes six to twelve months. Our first-time buyer checklist covers your credit file, deposit, bank statements, agreement in principle, surveys and conveyancer, plus the mistakes that cost buyers.

Information & Guides · 12 October 2024 · 8 min

HMO buy-to-let mortgages: a guide for landlords (including first-timers)

An HMO mortgage is a buy-to-let loan for a property shared by tenants from different households. Here’s how lenders assess them, why rates are higher, and how first-time and student landlords can get one.