First time buyers
Saving a deposit is hard enough. I'll explain how much you could borrow, which lenders may suit you, and every cost to budget for, then stay with you until you get the keys.
First time buyer mortgagesMortgage, protection and equity release advice across East Sussex
Mortgage advice for buying, moving and remortgaging
Whether it's your first home, your next home or a better deal on the one you've got, I'll find a mortgage that fits your circumstances and look after the whole process for you.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Who I help
Every mortgage starts with the same question: what are you trying to do? Here's how I can help at each stage.
Moving home
Taking your current mortgage with you isn't always the best option. I'll compare keeping your existing deal with a new mortgage, look at any early repayment charges, and time everything around your sale and purchase.
Remortgaging
When your deal ends, a product transfer with your current lender can be quick, but it isn't always the best value. I'll compare it with the wider market, and look at raising money for home improvements if that's part of your plan.
Compare your paymentsBuy to let
Whether it's your first rental or you're adding to a small portfolio, I'll look at rental cover, deposit and how the numbers stack up. I'd also suggest speaking to an accountant about tax.
Some forms of Buy to Let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
From first call to completion
Buying a home involves a lot of people. Here's what happens on the mortgage side, and what I take care of along the way.
A first conversation
We talk about what you'd like to do, what you earn and what you spend. No credit search, no cost.
Agreement in principle
I arrange an agreement in principle so estate agents know you're a serious buyer.
Your offer is accepted
We choose the right mortgage and I prepare the full application with you.
Valuation and underwriting
The lender values the property and checks your documents. I deal with any questions they raise.
Mortgage offer
Once the offer is issued, your solicitor takes over the legal side and I keep everyone moving.
Completion
You get the keys. I'll be in touch every year, and before your deal ends, to make sure it still suits you.
What you'll need
Every lender is slightly different, so I'll tell you exactly what's needed for yours. Having these ready makes things quicker.
What it costs. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances, but I estimate it will be £495 for a residential purchase. I'll confirm any fee in writing before you commit.
- Photo IDA passport or driving licence.
- Proof of addressA recent utility or council tax bill.
- PayslipsUsually your last three months.
- Bank statementsUsually your last three months.
- Your latest P60From your employer.
- If you're self-employedUsually two years of tax calculations and tax year overviews, or accounts.
- Proof of depositWhere it's held and where it came from, including gift letters.
- Credit commitmentsDetails of loans, finance and credit cards.
Run the numbers first
See what a mortgage might cost each month, how much you could borrow, and what stamp duty you'd pay.
Mortgage questions
How much can I borrow?
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.
What's the difference between a product transfer and a remortgage?
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.
Will speaking to you affect my credit score?
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.
Should I fix or choose a tracker?
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.
Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?
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.
Ready to talk about your mortgage?
Book a no-obligation call and we can work out what makes sense for you. Prefer to talk now? Give me a ring.