Frequently asked questions

We talk through what you're hoping to do, your income and outgoings, and any worries you have. It's relaxed, it costs nothing and there's no obligation to go any further.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances, but I estimate it will be £495 for a residential purchase or £795 for equity release. I'll confirm any fee in writing before you commit to anything.

Protection advice is fee free.

Yes. I offer face to face and telephone advice, and video calls if that's easier. Plenty of clients start with a phone call and meet once there's something to look at together.

No. An initial conversation involves no credit search at all. Some lenders use a soft search for an agreement in principle, which doesn't affect your score, while others use a full search. I'll tell you which before anything is submitted.

Me. I'm the person you speak to first, the one who researches your options and the one who keeps you updated until everything is complete.

Many lenders start from around four to four and a half times your income, then look closely at your outgoings, credit history and deposit. Some will lend more for certain incomes or professions. The affordability calculator gives a rough guide, and I can give you a far more accurate answer once we've talked.

Most lenders need at least 5% of the purchase price. A bigger deposit usually gives you access to lower rates, because the lender is taking less risk.

It's a statement from a lender showing how much they may be prepared to lend, based on the information you've given. Estate agents often ask for one before they'll put your offer forward. It isn't a guarantee of a mortgage.

It varies, but from offer accepted to completion is often two to three months. Chains, surveys and legal work can make it quicker or slower, and I'll keep things moving on the mortgage side.

Yes. Lenders usually want to see two years of figures, such as tax calculations and tax year overviews, although some will consider one year. Getting advice early helps, because lenders treat self-employed income in different ways.

Ideally around six months before your current deal ends. Many lenders let you arrange a new deal several months ahead, and starting early gives you time to compare options without being moved onto your lender's standard variable rate.

A product transfer is a new deal with your existing lender. It's usually quick, with little paperwork. A remortgage moves your mortgage to a different lender, which can sometimes offer a better rate or more flexibility. I'll compare both for you.

Often, yes, for things like home improvements, subject to affordability and the value of your home. Borrowing more increases what you owe and may increase your monthly payments, so we'll look at whether it's the right way to fund your plans.

A fixed rate keeps your payment the same for a set period. A tracker follows the Bank of England base rate up and down. The right choice depends on your budget and how much certainty you need, and we'll talk it through.

Yes. There's no fee for protection advice. I'm usually paid commission by the insurer when a policy starts, and I'll explain this before you apply.

It depends on your mortgage, your debts and how much your family would need to live on. The life cover calculator gives a starting point, and I'll help you refine it.

Often, yes. Insurers assess health conditions differently. Where one may exclude a condition or increase the premium, another may not, which is why it's worth comparing properly.

It may help, but workplace cover usually ends if you leave the job and may not cover your mortgage and income needs. I'll take it into account so you only pay for what you actually need.

Lifetime mortgages are usually available from age 55. Generally, the older you are, the more you may be able to release.

Yes. With a lifetime mortgage the lender places a charge on your home, but you remain the owner and continue to benefit from any rise in its value.

Plans that meet Equity Release Council standards include a no negative equity guarantee. When your home is sold, the amount owed will not be more than its sale value, provided the terms of the plan are met. Equity release will reduce what you can leave to your family, so it's important to talk it through with them.

Yes, and it's one of the most common reasons people come to me. Any existing mortgage on the property has to be repaid from the money released.

Yes. People use equity release for home and garden improvements, adaptations, helping family, or making retirement more comfortable.

They don't have to be, but I'd encourage it. You're welcome to have family with you at every meeting, and there's never any pressure to make a decision on the day.