Mortgage Guides
in Plain English
Whether you are buying your first home, remortgaging, or building a property portfolio, our guides break down what you need to know without the jargon.
Your First Time Buyer Guide
Everything you need to know about getting on the property ladder, from saving a deposit to picking the right mortgage deal for your situation.
Read guide →Moving Home: What You Need to Know
A step by step look at the home moving process, including how long it takes, what it costs, and whether you can take your existing mortgage with you.
Read guide →How Much Deposit Do You Actually Need?
We explain the minimum deposit requirements, how a bigger deposit can get you better rates, and the options available if you are struggling to save.
Read guide →When Should You Start Looking for a Mortgage?
Timing matters. We look at when to start the mortgage process, how long offers last, and why getting an agreement in principle early can put you ahead.
Read guide →Essential House Viewing Checklist
A viewing is your chance to spot problems before you commit. We share the key things to check, the questions to ask, and what to look out for.
Read guide →What Happens After Your Mortgage Offer?
You have got your mortgage offer, but what comes next? We walk you through the steps between offer and completion so there are no surprises.
Read guide →House Surveys Explained
From basic valuations to full structural surveys, we explain which type of survey you need, how much they cost, and what happens if issues are found.
Read guide →Buying a New Build Property
New builds come with their own set of considerations. We cover the pros, the cons, developer incentives, and what lenders look for when you apply.
Read guide →When Should You Remortgage?
If your fixed rate is coming to an end, or you have been on your lender's standard variable rate for a while, it could be costing you hundreds every month.
Read guide →Should You Stay With Your Lender or Switch?
When your deal ends, your lender will offer a product transfer. But is it the best option? We explain how to compare and when switching makes sense.
Read guide →How Long Does a Remortgage Take?
Remortgaging is generally quicker than a purchase, but there are still steps to follow. We break down the typical timeline so you know what to expect.
Read guide →Can You Remortgage Before Your Fixed Term Ends?
You can, but there may be early repayment charges to consider. We explain when it is worth paying them and when it makes more sense to wait.
Read guide →Extending Your Mortgage Term
Extending your term can lower your monthly payments, but you will pay more interest overall. We explain the trade offs and who it suits best.
Read guide →Getting Started With Buy to Let
Thinking about investing in property? We cover the deposit requirements, rental yield calculations, tax implications, and how BTL mortgages differ from residential ones.
Read guide →HMO Mortgages Explained
Houses in multiple occupation can deliver strong yields, but not every lender will touch them. We explain the licensing rules and how to find the right deal.
Read guide →Limited Company Buy to Let
Since the tax changes in 2017, more landlords are buying through a limited company. We explain the tax benefits, the extra costs, and whether it is right for you.
Read guide →Holiday Let Mortgages
Holiday lets need a specialist mortgage. We explain what lenders look for, how projected rental income is assessed, and how to find competitive rates.
Read guide →Conveyancing Explained
Conveyancing is the legal side of buying or selling a property. We explain what a conveyancer does, what it costs, and how long the process typically takes.
Read guide →Freehold vs Leasehold
The difference between freehold and leasehold affects what you own, what you pay, and what you can do with your property. Here is what you need to know.
Read guide →Joint Tenants vs Tenants in Common
Buying with someone else? The way you hold the property matters more than you might think. We explain the key differences and which option suits your situation.
Read guide →Stamp Duty: What You Will Pay
Stamp Duty Land Tax can add thousands to your purchase costs. We explain the current rates, the first time buyer relief, and the additional property surcharge.
Read guide →Self Employed Mortgages
Being self employed does not mean you cannot get a great mortgage deal. We explain what lenders look for, how many years of accounts you need, and how to present your income.
Read guide →Do You Need a Mortgage Broker?
A broker can search thousands of deals across the whole market on your behalf. We explain how brokers work, what they cost, and why most people save money by using one.
Read guide →Your Credit Score and Your Mortgage
Your credit history plays a big role in what deals you can access. We explain how lenders use your score, simple ways to improve it, and what to do if yours is not perfect.
Read guide →