Frequently asked questions:

Why do I need a Mortgage Adviser?
Why should we meet?
Why can't I have an online or telephone quote?
What will your services cost?
How much can I afford to borrow?
What will you do apart from give me advice?
I am worried about my credit score, what can I do?
I want to consolidate my loans and or credit cards, Can you do this?

Why do I need a Mortgage Adviser?

Your mortgage is probably the biggest and most serious financial commitment you will make. Many banks, building socities and other financial institutions will happily advise you on products they sell. They will not, however, examine a panel of lenders representing the whole of the market and search for the best product available to suit your requirements. They do not tell you that someone has a better product which may be more beneficial to you.

Why should me meet?

We have a duty, which we take very seriously, to give the best advice we can to our clients. In order to do this we need to take all the relevant information on your situation before making a recommendation. Any information you give us is confidential and will not be communicated to lenders, or anyone else, without your consent.

Why can't I have an online or telephone quote?

Any adviser or lender would be able to do this, once they have a few basic details. The problem is that the information provided may not be appropriate to your situation and may lead you into purchasing the wrong product. We only give advice when we know that it is the right advice for you.

What will your services cost?

All our consultations are without obligation on your part and will cost you nothing. We only charge a fee where we have successfully obtained the mortgage you wanted and where the mortgage transaction has been completed. In circumstances where you decide not to go ahead, there is no charge.

How much can I afford to borrow?

Lenders previously used to set an income multiplier and would lend (subject to credit score) perhaps 3.5 times your income. Now many lenders tend to use an affordability calculator, which takes into account your income, outgoings and commitments. In many cases this can lead to higher loan to income ratios, but only where affordability is good. We can apply these calculators and estimate how much lenders will consider in your circumstances.

What will you do apart from give me advice?

We provide a complete service both advising you on the mortgage and on any protection products you may need to cover your mortgage should you or your partner be unable to work or pay your mortgage through redundancy, disability, critical illness or premature death. We also offer buildings and contents insurance. More than this we will guide you through the application process, completing online applications and ensuring that matters are progressing. In addition, when your mortgage is nearing the end of its fixed or discount period, we will, with your permission, get in touch to remind you that the time for review is approaching.

I am worried about my credit score, what can I do?

There are almost as many different ways of assessing you as there are lenders. The exact methods they use are confidential, but many of the issues they take in to account are similar and there are actions you can take to identify and remedy issues which may affect you. For example, if you are not registered to vote at your address, it may be advisable to contact your local authority and register immediately. You can apply to Experian or Equifax to view your credit history (we can help you do this).

I want to consolidate my loans and or credit cards. Can you do this?

Yes, we can. We always advise caution in converting unsecured short-term debt to secured long-term debt. This is because although it might cut your outgoings, it may cost you more in the long-term and because it is secured on your home there would be even more at risk if you were unable to pay. As long as you understand and accept this, then we are happy to help you do so. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage!