Question 1

How much can I borrow for a mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders offer around 4 to 4.5 times your annual income, though some go higher depending on your income level, profession, deposit and outgoings. Every lender calculates affordability differently, so the only reliable figure comes from a full assessment — which we can do for you before you start viewing properties.

Question 2

Do you charge broker fees?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a fee-free mortgage broker. We are paid a procuration fee by the lender when your mortgage completes. You receive our whole-of-market advice and full application service at no direct cost to you.

Question 3

How does the cashback work?

Accepted Answer

When your mortgage completes, the lender pays us a procuration fee — and we share part of it with you as cashback. This applies to every mortgage we arrange, including product switches (rate switches) with your existing lender. The exact amount depends on the lender and the size of your loan, and we confirm it in writing before you proceed. Cashback is paid after completion.

Question 4

What deposit do I need to buy a home?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders ask for at least 5% of the purchase price, so £10,000 on a £200,000 home. A larger deposit — 10%, 15% or more — usually unlocks lower interest rates. Gifted deposits from close family are widely accepted, and schemes like shared ownership can reduce what you need further.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most lenders want two years of accounts or SA302 tax calculations, but some accept one year. Company directors are usually assessed on salary plus dividends, and some lenders also count retained profits. Contractors can often be assessed on their day rate instead. Choosing the right lender for your income structure is where we help most.

Question 6

Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Specialist lenders consider missed payments, defaults, CCJs and even past insolvency — especially where the issues are older, settled and your recent conduct is clean. You may need a larger deposit and rates are typically higher, but many people are surprised by what's possible. We check criteria before applying so your file isn't marked by declines.

Question 7

What's the difference between a remortgage and a product transfer?

Accepted Answer

A remortgage moves your loan to a new lender; a product transfer (rate switch) keeps you with your existing lender on a new rate. Transfers are quicker and usually involve no credit check or legal work, but your lender's rates may not be the most competitive. We compare both and recommend whichever leaves you better off — and you receive cashback either way.

Question 8

When should I start looking at remortgaging?

Accepted Answer

Around six months before your current deal ends. Most lenders let you secure a new rate that far ahead, so you can switch the day your old deal finishes and never fall onto the standard variable rate, which is usually much higher.

Question 9

How long does a mortgage application take?

Accepted Answer

A mortgage in principle can often be arranged the same day. A full application to offer typically takes two to four weeks, depending on the lender, the valuation and how quickly documents are provided. We manage the whole process and chase on your behalf.

Question 10

What is a mortgage in principle?

Accepted Answer

A mortgage in principle (also called an agreement or decision in principle) is a lender's indication of how much they'd be willing to lend you, based on a preliminary check. Estate agents often ask for one before accepting an offer. We can usually arrange one for you quickly.

Question 11

Can my family help me buy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — in several ways. A gifted deposit is the simplest. Beyond that, joint borrower sole proprietor (JBSP) mortgages add a family member's income to boost affordability without them owning the home, and guarantor or family offset products use their savings or property as support. We'll explain the options and the risks to everyone involved.

Question 12

What does a whole-of-market mortgage broker do?

Accepted Answer

We compare mortgages from across the whole UK market — high-street banks, building societies and specialist lenders, many of which only accept applications through brokers. We check which lenders will accept your circumstances, recommend the most suitable deal, and handle the application through to completion.

Question 13

Is your advice really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You pay us nothing — no broker fee, no advice fee. We're paid a procuration fee by the lender when your mortgage completes, and this doesn't increase your rate. Lender product and valuation fees can still apply, and we'll explain them in full before you proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions