Most first-time buyers will need a minimum deposit of around 5–10% of the property’s value. The larger your deposit, the more competitive your mortgage rate is likely to be. We’ll help you explore all available options, including government schemes that can make buying your first home more achievable.

Yes, absolutely. Being self-employed doesn’t mean you can’t get a mortgage — it just requires the right approach. Lenders will typically ask for two to three years of accounts or tax returns to assess your income. We’ll help you prepare the necessary documents and find lenders who understand self-employed applicants.

It’s most suitable to start reviewing your mortgage around three to six months before your current deal ends. This gives time to explore better rates and switch smoothly without moving onto your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR), which is often higher. We can help you compare options and handle the transition for you.

Our initial consultation is fee-free. If a fee applies later in the process, we’ll be upfront about it before any commitment is made. Transparency is key — you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for and why.

Having a poor credit history doesn’t necessarily stop you from getting a mortgage. Some lenders specialise in helping people with missed payments, defaults, or CCJs. We’ll review your credit profile, explain your options, and work to find a suitable lender who understands your situation.

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps your interest rate the same for an agreed period, making budgeting easier. A variable-rate mortgage can move up or down depending on the lender or Bank of England base rate — potentially saving you money when rates drop. We’ll help you understand which option is most suitable for your financial goals.

Yes, most lenders allow overpayments or early repayment, though some may charge a fee during the fixed term. Making extra payments can reduce your mortgage term and total interest. We’ll explain how to do this efficiently and whether it’s cost-effective for your deal.

On average, a mortgage can take between four to eight weeks from application to completion, depending on the lender and your circumstances. We’ll keep you updated at every stage and handle communication with the lender to make the process as smooth as possible.

Yes, many lenders offer Buy-to-Let mortgages for new landlords, though the criteria can differ from standard residential mortgages. You’ll usually need a larger deposit (often around 25%) and proof that the expected rental income will cover the mortgage payments. We’ll guide you through the requirements and help you find a lender that supports first-time investors.

No — Buy-to-Let mortgages are designed specifically for properties you plan to rent out, not live in yourself. If you intend to move in at any stage, you’ll need to switch to a residential mortgage. We’ll explain how these differences affect your options and help ensure your mortgage stays compliant with lender criteria.