Buying a home can be a daunting task, but it is also an exciting one. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Please use the quick links below where we're sure you can find the answer you're looking for.

Your mortgage appointment

  • Do I need to use a mortgage adviser?

    It is not necessary to use a mortgage adviser to get a mortgage, but it can be helpful, especially if you are a first-time buyer or have complex financial circumstances. A mortgage adviser can help you find the right mortgage deal for your needs and guide you through the application process.

  • What should I prepare for my mortgage adviser meeting?

    Here are some things you can prepare for your mortgage adviser meeting:

    Gather your financial documents. This includes your latest payslips, bank statements, and tax returns.
    Think about your budget. How much can you afford to borrow each month? How much of a deposit do you have?
    Consider your mortgage needs. What type of mortgage are you looking for? Fixed-rate or variable-rate? How long of a term?
    Make a list of questions for your mortgage adviser. This will help you make the most of your time together.

  • What questions should I ask my mortgage adviser?

    Here are some questions you can ask your mortgage adviser:

    – How much can I borrow?
    – What type of mortgage is best for me?
    – What are the interest rates and fees?
    – What are the monthly repayments?
    – What happens if I can’t afford to make my repayments?
    – What are the pros and cons of different mortgage products?

  • What should I expect during my mortgage adviser meeting?

    During your mortgage adviser meeting, your adviser will:

    – Discuss your financial situation and needs.
    – Assess your affordability.
    – Recommend a suitable mortgage product.
    – Help you complete the mortgage application.
    – Answer any questions you have.

  • How much does it cost to see a mortgage adviser?

    The initial meeting with a GHL Direct financial adviser to discuss your needs is always at our adviser’s expense and without any obligation. Our mortgage advisers may charge based on the complexity of each case.

    Some mortgage brokers charge an up-front flat fee between £195 and £499, while others take commission from the lender or bank providing the loan. All of this will be explained to you by your mortgage adviser at the start of the meeting.

  • What should I expect after my mortgage adviser meeting?

    After your mortgage adviser meeting, you should expect to receive a follow-up email or phone call from your GHL Direct adviser. They will discuss your mortgage options with you and help you choose the right mortgage for your needs. They will also help you gather the necessary documentation and complete the mortgage application process.

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General Mortgage Questions

  • What is the first step to buying a home?

    The first step is to get your finances in order. This means checking your credit score (we can do this for you) and saving for a mortgage deposit. You should also get approved for a mortgage before you start shopping for a home. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend and make you more attractive to the seller.

  • How much deposit do I need to buy a home?

    In the UK, you will typically need a deposit of at least 5% of the purchase price of the home you want to buy. However, some lenders may offer mortgages with a lower deposit, such as 10% or even 5%. The higher your deposit, the lower your monthly mortgage repayments will be.

  • How do I find a mortgage?

    You can compare mortgages from different lenders online or through a mortgage broker. When choosing a mortgage, it is important to consider the interest rate, repayment terms, and any fees or charges.

  • How do I qualify for a mortgage?

    To qualify for a mortgage, you will need to have a good credit score, a steady income, and a minimum of 5% deposit. Lenders will also consider your assets and employment history.

  • What other costs are involved in buying a home?

    In addition to the purchase price of the home, you will also need to budget for other costs, such as:

    – Stamp duty
    – Solicitor’s fees
    – Surveyor’s fees
    – Moving costs
    – Home insurance

  • what types of mortgage are available in the uk?

    There are a variety of mortgage types available in the UK, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common types of mortgages:

    Fixed-rate mortgages: Fixed-rate mortgages offer a fixed interest rate for a set period of time, typically 2, 3, 5, or 10 years. This can make budgeting easier, as your monthly repayments will remain the same for the duration of the fixed-rate period. However, if interest rates fall during this time, you may be paying more than you need to.

    Variable-rate mortgages: Variable-rate mortgages have an interest rate that can fluctuate in line with the Bank of England’s base rate. This means that your monthly repayments could go up or down. Variable-rate mortgages can be a good option if you are comfortable with the risk of your monthly repayments changing.

    Tracker mortgages: Tracker mortgages track a specific interest rate, such as the Bank of England’s base rate or a lender’s own standard variable rate (SVR). This means that your interest rate will move up or down in line with the tracker rate. Tracker mortgages can be a good option if you want to benefit from any potential interest rate cuts, but you also need to be aware of the risk of your monthly repayments increasing.

    Discount mortgages: Discount mortgages offer a discount on the lender’s SVR for a set period of time, typically 2, 3, or 5 years. This can make your monthly repayments lower than they would be on a standard variable rate mortgage. However, after the discount period ends, your interest rate will revert to the lender’s SVR.

    Capped-rate mortgages: Capped-rate mortgages have a maximum interest rate that the lender can charge, even if the Bank of England’s base rate rises. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your monthly repayments will never go above a certain amount. However, capped-rate mortgages typically have higher interest rates than other types of mortgages.

    Offset mortgages: Offset mortgages allow you to link your savings account to your mortgage account. This means that your savings will offset the balance of your mortgage, which can reduce your interest payments. Offset mortgages can be a good option if you have a large amount of savings and want to reduce the cost of your mortgage.

    In addition to these main types of mortgages, there are also a number of specialist mortgages available, such as mortgages for first-time buyers, self-employed borrowers, and people with bad credit.

    When choosing a mortgage, it is important to consider your individual circumstances and needs. You should also compare offers from different lenders to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible. It is also a good idea to speak to a financial adviser to get personalized advice.

  • What is freehold vs leasehold?

    Freehold ownership means that you own the land and the property outright. Leasehold ownership means that you own the property for a fixed period of time, typically 99 or 125 years. After this time, the ownership of the property reverts to the freeholder.

  • What is the mortgage application process?

    Once you have found a mortgage that you are happy with, you will need to submit an application to the lender. The lender will assess your credit score, income, and employment history to determine whether you are eligible for a mortgage and how much you can borrow.

  • If I'm struggling to save for a deposit, what help is available?

    There are a number of schemes available to help first-time buyers save for a deposit, such as the Help to Buy scheme and the Lifetime ISA.

  • What should I look for in a property?

    Before making an offer on a house, you may want ask:

    – What is the condition of the property?
    – Are there any known problems with the property?
    – What are the local amenities like?
    – What are the transport links like?
    – Is the property in a flood risk area?
    – What is the broadband coverage and speeds?
    – Is there 4/5G in the area?

  • Where can I get more information?

    Our mortgage advisers are always here to answer any questions you may have about your mortgage. There are also a number of resources available to help first-time homebuyers, such as:

    Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
    The Money Advice Service
    Your local council
    A mortgage broker (like GHL Direct :))
    A solicitor

  • What are some tips for first-time home buyers?

    – Get a mortgage in principle for a mortgage before you start shopping for a home. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend.
    – Work with a mortgage broker who specializes in working with first-time home buyers.
    – Be prepared to negotiate on the price of the property.
    – Budget for all of the costs associated with buying a home, including the mortgage deposit, mortgage product fees, any broker fees, completion costs, and solicitors fees.
    – Get a home survey before you buy the home. This will help you identify any potential problems with the property.
    – Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your mortgage broker, estate agent or lender should be able to answer any questions you have about the home buying process.

After the mortgage offer

  • What is conveyancing?

    Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from the seller to the buyer. A conveyancer will handle all of the legal paperwork involved in the sale and purchase of the property.

  • When do I need to arrange home insurance?

    You will need to arrange home insurance before you move into your new property. Home insurance will protect you financially in the event of damage to your property or its contents.

  • When will my mortgage lender release the funds?

    Your mortgage lender will release the funds to your solicitor once the sale has been completed. This typically happens a few days after you have moved into your new property.

  • What happens on the day of completion?

    On the day of completion, your solicitor will transfer the money for the purchase of the property to the seller’s solicitor. This will typically be done by a CHAPS payment, which is a high-value electronic payment that is processed on the same day.

    Once the seller has received the money, they will sign the transfer deed, which transfers ownership of the property to you. Your solicitor will then register the transfer deed with the Land Registry.

  • When can I get the keys to my new home?

    Once the transfer deed has been registered with the Land Registry, you will be able to get the keys to your new home. This will typically happen on the same day as completion, but it may be a few days later if there are any delays with the registration process.

  • What do I need to do after completion?

    Once you have the keys to your new home, there are a few things that you need to do:

    – Arrange for utilities to be connected.
    – Get home insurance.
    – Update your address with your bank and other important organizations.
    – Get a copy of the property’s title deeds from your solicitor.

  • What are my responsibilities as a homeowner?

    As a homeowner, you are responsible for the following:

    – Making your mortgage payments on time.
    – Maintaining the property in good condition.
    – Paying council tax and other property-related taxes.
    – Obtaining the necessary planning permission for any alterations or extensions to the property.

  • Here are some additional tips for new homeowners:

    Here are some additional tips for new homeowners:

    – Make a budget for your mortgage payments and other homeownership expenses.
    – Set up a home maintenance fund to cover the cost of unexpected repairs and replacements.
    – Consider getting a home warranty to cover the cost of repairs to major appliances and systems.
    – Get to know your neighbors and build relationships with them.

  • What if I have any questions after my mortgage completes?

    What if I have any questions or concerns after my mortgage completes?

    If you have any questions or concerns after your mortgage completes, you should contact your GHL Direct mortgage broker, solicitor or mortgage lender. They will be able to provide you with assistance and advice.

    Overall, the process of completing on a mortgage in the UK can be complex, but it is important to remember that there are people there to help you every step of the way. By following the tips above, you can make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

What type of insurance do I need?

  • Homeowners insurance

    Homeowners insurance protects your home and its contents from damage caused by covered events, such as fire, theft, and weather-related events.

    This can also be known as Home Insurance, Buildings & Contents Insurance or just Buildings Insurance.

  • Mortgage payment protection insurance

    Mortgage payment protection insurance (MPPI): MPPI covers your mortgage payments if you are unable to work due to an illness or injury.

  • Life insurance

    Life insurance: Life insurance provides a financial benefit to your loved ones if you die. This can help to cover your mortgage and other expenses.

  • Critical illness insurance

    Critical illness insurance: Critical illness insurance pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart disease. This money can be used to cover your medical expenses, mortgage payments, or other living expenses.

  • When do I need to arrange home insurance?

    You will need to arrange home insurance before you move into your new property. Home insurance will protect you financially in the event of damage to your property or its contents.

  • Choosing the right insurance

    Some tips for choosing the right insurance policies for your needs:

    – Consider your budget and your risk tolerance.
    – Make sure that the policies you choose cover the risks that are most important to you.
    – Compare rates from different insurance companies.
    – Read the fine print carefully before you buy a policy.
    – Talk to an insurance broker if you have any questions

Bad Credit Mortgages in the UK

  • What is a bad credit mortgage?

    A bad credit mortgage is a mortgage that is available to people with poor credit histories. Bad credit mortgages typically have higher interest rates and fees than mortgages for people with good credit.

  • Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?

    Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage with bad credit in the UK, but it will be more difficult and expensive than if you had good credit. Lenders view borrowers with bad credit as riskier, so they charge higher interest rates and require larger mortgage deposits.

  • Am I eligible for a bad credit mortgage?

    Whether or not you are eligible for a bad credit mortgage will depend on your individual circumstances. However, generally speaking, you will be eligible for a bad credit mortgage if you have a regular income and a deposit of at least 15% of the value of the property you want to buy.

  • What types of bad credit mortgages are available?

    There are a number of different types of bad credit mortgages available in the UK. Some of the most common types include:

    Subprime mortgages: Subprime mortgages are mortgages that are designed for people with poor credit histories. Subprime mortgages typically have higher interest rates and fees than mortgages for people with good credit.

    Specialist mortgages:
    Specialist mortgages are mortgages that are designed for people with specific financial circumstances, such as people who have been self-employed for less than two years or people who have a County Court Judgment (CCJ).

    Guarantor mortgages:
    Guarantor mortgages are mortgages that require a guarantor to guarantee the loan. A guarantor is someone who agrees to repay the loan if you are unable to do so.

  • What are the requirements for getting a bad credit mortgage?

    The requirements for getting a bad credit mortgage will vary depending on the lender, but most lenders will require:

    – A larger down payment (typically 25-35%)
    – A good credit score in your home country (if you are a non-UK resident)
    – Evidence of a regular income
    – A UK bank account
    – A UK address for correspondence

  • How can I find a lender that offers bad credit mortgages?

    You can find lenders that offer bad credit mortgages by searching online or by contacting a mortgage broker. Mortgage brokers can help you compare offers from different lenders and find the right deal for your needs.

  • What are some tips for getting a bad credit mortgage?

    Here are some tips for getting a bad credit mortgage:

    – Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start shopping for a property. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend.
    – Be prepared to pay a higher deposit and interest rate than you would for a mortgage with good credit.
    – Be honest with your mortgage lender about your financial circumstances.
    – Consider using a mortgage broker who specializes in bad credit mortgages.

    Getting a bad credit mortgage can be more difficult than getting a mortgage with good credit. However, it is possible to get a bad credit mortgage, and it can be a good way to get on the property ladder, even if you have a poor credit history.

Mortgage for Non-UK Residency

  • Can I get a mortgage if I am not a UK resident?

    Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage in the UK if you are not a resident. However, it is important to note that the lending criteria for non-UK residents are typically more stringent than for UK residents.

  • What are the requirements for getting a mortgage as a non-UK resident?

    The specific requirements will vary depending on the lender, but most lenders will require:

    – A larger down payment (typically 25-35%)
    – A good credit score in your home country
    – Evidence of a regular income
    – A UK bank account
    – A UK address for correspondence

  • If you’re an EU citizen

    If you’re an EU citizen you can get a mortgage just like a UK citizen if you have:

    – lived in the UK for at least 3 years
    – a UK bank account
    – a permanent job in the UK

  • If you were born outside the EU

    If you were born outside the EU and have permanent residency or indefinite leave to remain Lenders will want evidence that you have:

    – lived in the UK for at least 2 years
    – a permanent job in the UK
    – a UK bank account
    – a sizeable deposit (as much as 25%)

  • If you don't have permanent residency in the UK

    If you don’t have permanent residency You might still be able to apply for a mortgage as a non-EU national if you have a:

    – Tier 2 work visa
    – Family visa
    – UK Ancestry visa
    – Residence card

  • Here are some additional tips for non-UK residents

    – Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start shopping for a property. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend and will make the buying process more efficient.
    – Be prepared to provide a lot of documentation to support your mortgage application. This may include proof of income, assets, and employment.
    – Compare offers from different lenders to find the best deal.
    – Get professional advice from a mortgage broker or financial adviser. They can help you understand your options and choose the right mortgage for your needs.

YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
MOST BUY TO LET MORTGAGES ARE NOT REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY
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