Question 1

What does a mortgage broker do?

Accepted Answer

A mortgage broker looks at your circumstances and researches suitable mortgage options across the market, rather than offering products from a single lender. We handle the comparison, the paperwork and the lender liaison, and explain your options in plain English.

Question 2

When should I speak to a mortgage broker?

Accepted Answer

As early as possible — ideally before you start viewing properties. Speaking to us early means you'll have a clear idea of what you might be able to borrow and can move quickly with an Agreement in Principle when you find the right place.

Question 3

How much deposit do I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the mortgage products available to you and your circumstances, but many residential mortgages start from around 5-10% of the property value. A larger deposit generally opens up a wider range of rates. We can talk through what's realistic for your situation.

Question 4

Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Self-employed applicants — sole traders, contractors, freelancers and company directors — are assessed differently to employed applicants, usually based on accounts, tax calculations or contract history. Some lenders are more comfortable with self-employed income than others, which is where we come in.

Question 5

What is an Agreement in Principle?

Accepted Answer

An Agreement in Principle (AIP), sometimes called a Decision in Principle, is an indication from a lender of how much they might be willing to lend you, based on an initial assessment. It's not a guaranteed mortgage offer, but it helps show estate agents and sellers that you're a serious buyer.

Question 6

What happens after an Agreement in Principle?

Accepted Answer

Once you've found a property and had an offer accepted, we submit a full mortgage application to the lender, including supporting documents. The lender will carry out a valuation and full underwriting before issuing a formal mortgage offer.

Question 7

How long does a mortgage application take?

Accepted Answer

It varies by lender and by how complex your circumstances are, but a straightforward application can take a few weeks from full submission to formal offer. More complex cases, or busy periods for lenders, can take longer. We'll keep you updated at each stage.

Question 8

Can you help if my circumstances are complicated?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Complex income, multiple income streams, historic credit issues or non-standard properties don't automatically rule you out — they usually just mean a more considered approach, and a search across lenders whose criteria are built for circumstances like yours. We can't guarantee an outcome, but we can have an honest conversation about what's realistic.

Question 9

What happens if my mortgage deal is ending?

Accepted Answer

If you don't actively remortgage or switch products, you'll typically move onto your lender's standard variable rate, which is usually higher. It's worth reviewing your options in the months before your deal ends — we'd suggest starting that conversation around three to six months ahead.

Question 10

How does mortgage advice work?

Accepted Answer

We start with a conversation about your circumstances and goals. From there, we research suitable options across the market, explain the trade-offs, and — where appropriate — recommend a course of action. Any recommendation depends on the personal and financial information you provide.

Question 11

Do I need to speak to a broker before viewing properties?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to, but it helps. Having an Agreement in Principle in place before you view properties means you can move quickly and confidently when you find the right one, and it signals to sellers and agents that you're in a position to proceed.

Question 12

What documents might I need?

Accepted Answer

Typically: proof of ID, proof of address, recent payslips or accounts, bank statements, and details of any existing debts or credit commitments. The exact list depends on your circumstances and the lender — we'll give you a clear checklist once we understand your situation.

Question 13

How much can I borrow?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your income, outgoings, existing commitments, credit history and the lender's own affordability criteria — there's no single answer. We'll talk through your circumstances and give you a realistic indication based on current lending criteria.

Question 14

Can you help with buy-to-let mortgages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with individual landlords, limited companies and portfolio landlords. Buy-to-let mortgages are assessed differently to residential mortgages, often with more emphasis on expected rental income, and in many cases are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the same way as residential mortgages.

Good to knowbefore we talk.

READY WHENYOU ARE.