The Pros & Cons of Using a Mortgage Broker in Beverley

Embarking on a mortgage journey can feel overwhelming, especially for first time buyers in Beverley or those looking to move or invest in property. With numerous options available, it’s crucial to make informed decisions from the start to save time and costs down the line.

At our company, we offer a personalised and friendly service, catering to your specific mortgage needs. We understand the complexities of the process and have the expertise to guide you through it. Our team is dedicated to providing expert mortgage advice in Beverley, assisting both new and existing customers.

In this article, we’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of the advantages and disadvantages of working with a mortgage broker in Beverley. Discover why many people trust us for their mortgage advice needs in Beverley and benefit from our knowledge and guidance.

Why use a mortgage broker in Beverley?

Cost-Effectiveness

While some believe that finding a mortgage deal on their own will save them money, the reality is more nuanced, especially when it comes to a mortgage broker in Beverley. While brokers may charge a fee, the actual cost depends on individual circumstances and the chosen company.

If you have extensive knowledge and a straightforward case, going direct might be easier and more cost-effective. For more complex situations or if you lack knowledge in the mortgage market, seeking the assistance of a mortgage broker in Beverley can prove invaluable.

Without proper knowledge, you run the risk of choosing the wrong deal or facing a rejected mortgage application. Both scenarios can lead to increased expenses or negatively impact your credit score, affecting future mortgage prospects.

With a dedicated mortgage advisor in Beverley, their primary goal is to help you achieve your mortgage goals. They strive to provide the right recommendation the first time, at the best price. While there may be a service fee involved, the potential savings in the long run can outweigh the costs.

Local Bank Branch Relationship 

In the past, many customers preferred approaching their banks directly out of loyalty and familiarity with the traditional way of conducting the mortgage process.

Back then, customers would visit their local branch and often interact with the same bank manager, benefiting from their expertise and personal knowledge of their financial situation.

Previously, having the bank manager personally review and approve your mortgage application was seen as advantageous, as they possessed a deep understanding of your finances.

With the advent of technology and online banking, the mortgage process has undergone significant changes, particularly with the introduction of digital credit scoring.

Nowadays, the bank manager does not manually assess each case. Instead, a sophisticated online system evaluates your eligibility for a mortgage. This process is standardised and applies uniformly across banks, ensuring fairness regardless of the institution you choose.

The focus has shifted from personal interactions to digital assessments based on objective criteria.

Exclusive Mortgage Products 

While it’s true that going directly to a lender can offer access to exclusive deals, it’s important to note that these options may be limited to that particular company. Banks typically provide their best deals, but they may not consider other lenders’ offerings.

It’s worth considering that mortgage lenders extend beyond banks, and there are numerous alternative options available. The deal a bank recommends may not necessarily be the most competitive one among all available lenders.

Seeking specialist mortgage advice in Beverley can provide you with a significant advantage. Our expert mortgage advisors in Beverley will thoroughly review your case and leverage our extensive panel of lenders to find the best deal tailored to your specific needs.

Another benefit of consulting a mortgage broker in Beverley is access to exclusive deals that are not available elsewhere.

Whether you’re a first time buyer, moving home, or looking to remortgage in Beverley, we can present you with a wide range of options to choose from, ensuring you find the most suitable mortgage solution.

Changes to Regulation & Consumer Protection  

In the aftermath of the 2007-08 credit crunch, significant improvements were made in the mortgage market. One of these changes came in the form of the 2014 Mortgage Market Review, which required lenders to provide mortgages only with extensive expert advice.

Gone are the days when anyone at a bank could grant a mortgage without proper checks or qualifications. The new regulations ensure that customers receive appropriate advice tailored to their circumstances.

These changes also introduced consumer protection measures that were previously lacking. If you believe you have been misadvised, you now have the option to file a complaint with the Financial Ombudsman or seek compensation through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

This increased consumer protection provides reassurance to customers, ensuring they receive reliable advice and guidance throughout their mortgage journey. This applies not only to mortgage brokers in Beverley but also to mortgage lenders, as both are subject to these regulatory requirements.

Book an Appointment with a Mortgage Advisor in Beverley

Choosing to approach a bank instead of a mortgage broker in Beverley can come with a drawback in terms of timing. Getting in touch with someone at a bank can often take months, and once the process begins, you may not receive frequent updates throughout your mortgage journey.

At Beverleymoneyman, we prioritise responsiveness and convenience for our customers. Our dedicated team of mortgage advisors in Beverley will reach out to you at a time that suits your schedule.

We’re available from early morning to late evening, seven days a week, including weekends and even some bank holidays.

We understand that every customer has a unique lifestyle, which is why our advisors are available throughout the day. You can easily book an appointment beyond traditional 9-5 hours or on weekends through our simple online booking system.

Our commitment to responsiveness doesn’t end there. Whether you’re at the beginning or nearing the completion of your mortgage, our friendly team will keep you informed every step of the way. If there are any changes, your dedicated mortgage advisor in Beverley will promptly get in touch with you.

It’s this emphasis on high-quality service that has made local mortgage brokers in Beverley like us a preferred choice for many. Instead of national banks, more and more people are opting to approach knowledgeable local experts who provide personalised support and guidance.

Handling of Complex Scenarios 

With our extensive industry experience, we have encountered various scenarios that can present slightly more challenges than the usual mortgage cases.

One such scenario is a mixed deposit, where two different sources of funds, such as a gifted deposit and personal savings, need to be audited and accounted for. Additionally, individuals on zero hour contracts pose considerations regarding the consistency of their income.

For those looking to make a second property purchase, assessing their affordability and financial capability becomes crucial. Self employed individuals in Beverley without a fixed income also face challenges in securing a mortgage.

A poor credit history can also impact an applicant’s eligibility, as lenders may view it unfavourably. Ultimately, affordability is a key factor, determining if applicants can comfortably manage the mortgage.

In the past, mortgage lenders competed primarily by offering better deals, but the focus has now shifted to meeting specific criteria. It’s important to note that while you may find a cheaper deal, it may not align with your unique circumstances and requirements.

Applying for a mortgage involves a hard search, which leaves a footprint on your credit file. Declining a deal in principle can negatively impact your credit file without clear reasons provided, adding to the frustration.

At Beverleymoneyman, we understand the intricacies of these situations and have the expertise to guide you through them. Our mortgage advisors in Beverley will leverage their knowledge and experience to help you find suitable mortgage options, even in challenging circumstances.

We are committed to providing personalised advice and support throughout the application process, ensuring you have the best chance of securing the right mortgage for your needs.

Agreement in Principle

Mortgage brokers in Beverley play a vital role in helping you navigate the mortgage application process and increase your chances of approval. With their extensive network of lenders, they have access to a wide range of options and can find the most suitable deal that aligns with your specific criteria.

Once they have assessed your case, they can initiate the process of securing an agreement in principle for you. At Beverleymoneyman, we prioritise efficiency and aim to provide you with an agreement in principle within 24 hours of your free mortgage appointment.

It’s important to note that an agreement in principle does not guarantee or automatically commit you to a mortgage. It offers the advantage of having an expert review your credit file in advance, which can help protect your credit score.

Our team of dedicated mortgage advisors in Beverley is committed to getting our recommendation right the first time, ensuring that you have the best chance of a successful mortgage application.

Should I use a Mortgage Broker in Beverley? 

When it comes to finding the right mortgage solution, there are advantages and disadvantages to both approaching a mortgage broker in Beverley and going directly to lenders. The choice ultimately depends on the speed and level of security you desire.

At Beverleymoneyman, we are a dedicated mortgage broker in Beverley with extensive experience assisting clients at various stages of their mortgage journey.

Whether you’re a first time buyer in Beverley taking your initial steps into the mortgage world, nearing the end of your fixed period, or looking to remortgage in Beverley, our team is here to provide expert guidance.

You can easily book a free mortgage appointment or remortgage review to speak with our knowledgeable mortgage advisors in Beverley. We understand the importance of flexibility and strive to accommodate your availability, subject to our schedule.

To gain further insight into our services, we encourage you to explore the exceptional customer reviews we have received.

These testimonials reflect the high level of service we consistently provide to our satisfied clients. Additionally, you can find valuable mortgage-related content on our YouTube channel, MoneymanTV.

When it comes to your mortgage goals, our team is dedicated to helping you find the right solution. Contact us today to discover how we can help you on your mortgage journey.

Buying a Property with a Friend or Partner in Beverley

Over the years, property price inflation has far outstripped wage increases. These days you will find that mortgage applicants, especially first time buyer in Beverley, are in difficulty when it comes to affording to purchase a home at the prices they are at.

When a home buyer is in this circumstance, they usually explore the option of moving in with someone else as a way to cut costs. A joint mortgage can be helpful for this because you will have two incomes for a mortgage lender to take into account when working out the maximum amount you can borrow.

Sharing the costs with someone can help you out when managing your monthly mortgage payments. On the flip side, it’s not as straightforward as moving in with someone instantly.

The process involves meeting a large amount of mortgage lending criteria and things to think about before you make a decision. As a reputable mortgage broker who has years of experience providing trusted mortgage advice in Beverley, we are asked about a joint mortgage on a regular basis.

Below are the most common questions we get asked and will hopefully help you throughout your mortgage journey.

How many people can jointly own a property?

There is a possibility that you can have up to four names on a mortgage to co-own a property, however, this comes down to the mortgage lender. Please keep in mind though, the more names linked to a mortgage deal, the more the likelihood that someone may drop out.

In the case where someone did drop out of the mortgage, the remaining joint owners are still legally able to keep living in that property, unless a court overruled it. Therefore, you will need to be very careful about who you decide to buy a home with.

If the option is available to you, now and again homeowners with a joint mortgage might think about increasing the mortgage, however, all parties present on the contract will have to agree to this. Again, you will need to consider your future plans for the property.

Joint tenancy or tenancy in common?

Through our experience as a mortgage broker in Beverley, we regularly see that married couple or applicants in a civil partnership will go for the option to go with a joint tenancy in which you have equal ownership of the property. In the event that one party passes away, the other owner would get the property.

With this in mind, for those considering remortgaging in Beverley at any point, or selling it down the line, either party would have to agree to this before you resume the process.

You may find that tenants in common usually are applicants who are relatives or friends. You both have equal ownership of the property but are not forced to do so in shares.

Usually, this circumstance happened when one party is making a bigger financial input than the other. If you are a tenant in common. For instance, you can sell or give away your share of the property to someone else.

What happens if one party stop making mortgage payments?

One of the disadvantages of being a property co-owner is if a party stops paying their share of the property, which is, unfortunately, more likely with multiple people attached to a property. Obviously, as with any mortgage, you have to keep up with the payments you contractually agreed to.

In the case where one party is finding it particularly struggle to keep up with their monthly mortgage payment and decides to not pay, the other party will need to make up the shortfall.

If that payment isn’t made, you could all end up in arrears, which can negatively impact your credit score and may create issues with obtaining another mortgage in the future.

It definitely is an option to look into if you don’t own 20%, 50%, or whatever the percentage is. You’re a combined entity and own 100% jointly.

How do I remove my ex-partner from my mortgage?

Removing a person’s name from a mortgage can sometimes be a difficult process and this is due to a range of reasons.

One of the more popular reasons that we do encounter is that the mortgage lender is hesitant that the applicant left on the mortgage will be able to manage their monthly payments. In the case where you are unable to do so, they are unlikely to allow you to do so.

A mortgage is a significantly large financial commitment and that’s why it can be complicated to make alterations to something that has already been contractually agreed upon.

Even though you may be able to manage to keep up with your payments since your ex moved out, they will still need to carry out an affordability assessment on you (just the same as they did at the point of purchase), to make their own judgement on whether or not you can afford it.

The majority of mortgage lenders don’t favour the idea of allowing applicants to put their mortgage into a sole name, like having more names on a mortgage reduces the chance of arrears coming up. This is due to having more than one source of income.

In the circumstance where your sole-name mortgage request is declined by your mortgage lender, we do recommend that you get in touch with a mortgage advisor in Beverley about your situation. Obtaining specialist mortgage advice in Beverley could be beneficial to your circumstance and help you get a sole-name mortgage.

As well as this, we do advise that you speak to family members to see if they are able to help out. There is a possibility that they could help by replacing your ex on your mortgage or by gifting you a lump sum that could help reduce the amount you owe on the mortgage balance.

How do I remove my name from my ex-partner’s mortgage?

If you and your partner split up and you are the one to leave the property, you are still responsible for meeting your monthly mortgage payments, regardless of if you and your ex have agreed that they will be the ones making the payments.

Similar to removing an ex’s name off a mortgage, the same principle applies to removing your name. The only circumstance where the mortgage lender will only allow you to remove your name is if they are sure that your ex is able to afford the payments through their affordability assessment.

We do find that some may arrange with their partner to send them money each month, however, they do need to keep an eye on your own credit report to ensure that they are paying their portion too. If they default on payments, this can result in harming your own credit score.

In the circumstance where you are still on your ex’s mortgage and are looking at moving home in Beverley into another property as well as getting a new mortgage, your mortgage lender should account for your circumstances. This could result in you not borrowing as much as you’d like.

In any case, there is a risk when it comes to buying a property as situations can change. As a mortgage broker in Beverley, we would recommend going into the home buying world with an open mind. Don’t worry if your plans change drastically there is normally a way to solve your problem.

In the situation where you are having a challenging time with your joint mortgage, it may be best to book a free mortgage appointment with a knowledgeable mortgage broker, to get mortgage advice in Beverley.

What is Gazumping? Should Home Buyers Be Afraid Of It?

The term ‘gazumping’ is a term that may be familiar to you, however, have you may not be sure of what it is about. The word ‘Gazumping’ is terminology for when the seller of the property you are interested in accepts another offer from another party, prior to your purchase being completed.

Originating from the Yiddish word ‘Gezump’, it was used to describe when someone swindles or cheats someone out of something, being primarily used way back in the 1920s.

Now ‘Gazumping’, it is a word prominent in house buying and was regularly used in the 1970-80s.

Is Gazumping illegal?

Through our experience as a mortgage broker in Beverley, we have been able to speak with customers regularly on the topic of Gazumping. We’re often asked if Gazumping is illegal, and the unfortunate answer to this, is that it’s not.

This is something that many home buyers may be asking when they go through the home buying and mortgage process across the country. Nobody quite understands how this type of practice is legal, despite how immoral it is.

The reason that Gazumping is deemed to be completely fine and legal, is because you and the seller are not contractually bound, no meeting with lawyers has taken place. As such, they have no obligation to sell to you, as your agreement has only been verbal.

The idea of being gazumped can be a scary one for first time buyers in Beverley especially, even if it may be less likely to occur. It’s an understandable feeling, as this gives you the risk of losing your dream home and nobody wants that to happen, especially if you are in a property chain.

Another factor that can affect home buyers is the idea that they may lose money from being Gazumped. Non-refundable expenses that are involved with the home buying process such as property surveys, conveyancing fees and mortgage arrangements fees.

How does Gazumping happen?

As touched upon above, the agreement between both parties to buy or sell a property, whilst you may want it to be honoured, is not legally binding. This only happens when lawyers exchange contracts to make it official.

It is not a simple process to make this happen. The mortgage process can often take several weeks, with the point between an offer being accepted and the contracts being exchanged taking quite a while to happen.

It’s generally during this step where an eager first time buyer in Beverley may jump in whilst your process is going on, and make a much more preferable offer to the seller of the property. They can do this either by speaking with the estate agent or going directly to the seller themselves.

The more favourable deal may also include things such as a higher purchase price, a faster sale or a particular buyer who is not going through a property chain. Gazumping covers all these circumstances wherein a seller may prefer another buyer over you, despite giving their word.

Buyers Market vs Sellers Market

One factor that could impact the chances of being Gazumped by a seller is the type of market that is currently happening, such as a sellers market or a buyers market.

For example, if the market is currently a sellers market, this means that there is a very popular, busy market. Commonplace occurrences are high demand, fewer properties, people wanting to buy and bidding wars between buyers that could see property prices rise.

In this instance, you will find that Gazumping is much more likely to happen, because someone may jump in with a higher bid for the seller, who at that point may be likely to accept.

On the other side of the coin, if the market is currently a buyers market, this means there are more houses than buyers, and a seller may not be receiving a lot of offers. This means you have less chance of someone Gazumping you and there is more space for price negotiations with the seller.

Ways to Avoid Being Gazumped

One of the reasons why you may experience a delay between your offer being accepted and the contract exchange, could be because you need a property survey to be carried out.

Below are some useful ways in which you could increase the possibility of you achieving higher mortgage success and avoiding being Gazumped.

• Search for a conveyancing solicitor or surveyor early into the process, so you can reduce the wait time.
• Provide all the necessary information as quick as you can for a smoother mortgage process.
• To show the lender that you are ready to go, obtain an mortgage agreement in principle. This will provide you with an advantage over other buyers who cannot yet prove they are eligible for a mortgage.

Other Helpful Gazumping Tips

We would recommend that you first ask the seller to remove the property from the open market. They’re under no obligation to do this, but doing so means the property is not as visible to potential Gazumpers.

We typically find a lot of sellers will honour their buyers request and indeed remove it from the open market, especially if it is a buyers market and they aren’t receiving many offers.

Putting in place a lock-in agreement, where both sides will make a deposit towards a binding agreement between one another, can be another handy trick. If any one party chose to withdraw or alter their deal, the other party would keep that parties deposit.

This can be costly due to the legal fees involved, though it may very well be worth the money saved and security provided to you during your mortgage process.

You could also look at insurance products, as having something in place to protect you from Gazumping can be a useful way to save yourself from losing money.

How a Mortgage Broker in Beverley Can Help

Even though Gazumping can never be 100% prevented, there are lots of ways to protect yourself as a buyer. As an open & honest mortgage broker in Beverley, we are here to help.

Book a free mortgage appointment today and see how our helpful team are able to help you on your mortgage journey as a first time buyer in Beverley.

Top 5 Mortgage Hurdles in Beverley

Specialist Mortgage Advice in Beverley

Having the best help and support from an expert team can help your mortgage journey run smoothly. Obviously, in some cases, it’s not all plain sailing. Here at Beverleymoneyman, we have helped many customers overcome a range of hurdles to get towards their homeowning goals. Below are just a few of the most common mortgage hurdles we have encountered as an expert Mortgage Broker in Beverley.

Childcare Costs

It’s very likely that you would be declined for a mortgage because of childcare costs. One thing to keep in mind though is that your borrowing capacity may be reduced because of these costs usually being such a large sum of money.

You will find that most lenders will view childcare costs as a loan or credit commitment. Therefore, regardless of if you have these costs or not, having children, in general, would still be seen as a larger outgoing each month.

If you are in this circumstance, you may be likely to borrow less than a mortgage applicant with the same income but with no children. Depending on the mortgage lender, you may find that some take child care costs into account so could mean your amount is increased but this isn’t always the case.

Mortgage involving Divorce/Separation

Usually, you buy a home with your partner with no intention of going through a divorce or separation. Unfortunately, this can happen and can result in a significant change in shared financial commitments.

• How do I remove my ex’s name from my mortgage?
• Can I remove my name from my ex’s mortgage?
• Am I allowed to have a second mortgage?

Starting a New Job – Can I get a Mortgage?

This all comes down to the mortgage lender. One may require you to have been in work consistently for a certain period of time though some may have different criteria.

On the other hand, you may still be able to get a mortgage if you are beginning your new job very soon . You may need to have a signed contract and a written job offer in order to achieve this.

Keep in mind that having gaps in employment could make the process challenging as this will be bought up by some lenders. However, probationary periods should be fine.

Evidencing Your Deposit

Anti-Money Laundering precautions are really strict. This is why you will need to provide evidence of your deposit to your lender as well proving the origin of your savings. As well as your lender, an estate agent or solicitor estate agent or solicitors may ask you for this as well, it just comes down to who you go with.

When it comes to cash deposits, these are not ideal! Parts of your bank statements that are worrying to a lender could be questioned and could result in your mortgage application being rejected.

There is a possibility for you to go down the gifted deposit route where you are gifted a part or all the deposit from family or friends. It’s important that the person gifting the deposit states in writing that is not intended to be paid back as a loan and, like the name, is a gift.

Speak to a reputable Mortgage Advisor in Beverley

If you are finding the mortgage journey difficult as a First Time Buyer in Beverley or are finding the Moving Home in Beverley journey stressful, book your free mortgage appointment to connect with one of our Mortgage Advisors in Beverley.

These are only just a number of situations so if you don’t apply to any of the ones above, there is a chance we have helped someone in your situation before. Get the help and support you need for your mortgage application from one of our open and honest Mortgage Advisors in Beverley.

9 Questions to Ask When Buying A House in Beverley

First Time Buyer Mortgage Advice in Beverley

Beginning the mortgage journey as a First Time Buyer in Beverley can be an exciting but daunting experience, especially if you have little to no knowledge of the process. With a Mortgage Broker by your side, this doesn’t have to be the case. To make the most out of your house buying journey, it’s best that you are prepared. Here is 9 questions to ask yourself when purchasing a house as a First Time Buyer.

The 9 most common questions:

1. How much interest has there been in the property/development?

Getting a mortgage could be one of the biggest financial commitments in your life is it’s best that you give yourself some thinking time about a property before proceeding.

To determine how much thinking time you have, it’s best that you ask how much interest the property has got so then you aren’t missing your chance of potentially getting a property. For example, if the property has had a lot of interest, it’s likely you will need to come to a decision quickly.

2. Is there a property chain?

A property occurs when there are a number of transactions happening at the same time for every sale purchase to be completed.

The mortgage process can be affected if the property is part of a property chain.

If there is no onward chain like a new home, bereavement or emigration, there is more chance that you would be able to move in quickly considering that you are not part of a chain yourself. In the case where you don’t need to sell your own property first, you will have more of an advantage because you won’t be disturbing the buying process.

This is something that can benefit you when negotiating property prices.

3. What’s included in the sale?

In some cases, the previous owners may leave some previous items behind, which can be a benefit for you. Items like washing machines, fridges, freezers or a shed may be left for the next occupant.

Providing that the appliances work, it can be perfect for new buyers who are looking to save a bit of cash to get something new and modern in the future. If you don’t want these items, it’s the new buyer’s responsibility to dispose of them.

For new properties, you may have the option to purchase any extras that are brand new and others for you on your moving day.

Are the neighbours friendly?

When it comes to deciding on a property, it’s best to see what your neighbours are like. Having a good or bad neighbour can be a key component in your decision. This is important if you are moving into an area you don’t know much about.

Neighbours can be an element that many people factor in when they are deciding to move into a new home. First impressions are not always key, however, it can be good to get on with the as you may live there for a while.

How much does it cost to run?

This can depend on where the property is in Beverley. Because of this, it’s good to ask about this as well as do some research yourself. Questions could include how much the council tax is or the average spends on utilities which you could ask your seller or look into. This can be useful information to know and can also be helpful when managing your budget for each property.

6. Which way does the house face?

This is another aspect of property hunting that many people see as an important requirement to them. You may fancy relaxing in the garden in late summer evenings as well as reading in natural light. Having this feature can mean you pay a more premium price so you have a south-facing garden with sunlight shining on you for most of the day.

7. After moving in, how much will be needed?

The work that may need to be done on the house might need to be factored into your budget. Some topics you may want to consider include:

• Make sure the property is energy efficient.
• Sorting ay damping issues (if any).
• Changing the furnishing.

8. Are you open to offers?

Negotiating a property price is a standard part of the house-buying process. With this, you need to be as prepared as possible to make an offer on a property that you like.

Speak with the seller or estate agent if you want to get an idea of how low in price the seller would want to go. Furthermore, it’s good to ask if any other offers have been made and rejected before your bid.

9. When can we move in?

It’s good to have a moving date set out so you can plan what you need to do before that date. You will need to plan tasks like instructing a conveyancing solicitor, packing your belongings, and organising a removal van to transport your belongings to the new property.

What is a 95% Mortgage?

A 95% mortgage is as simple as the name would suggest; you are borrowing against 95% of the price of a property, and then you are covering the remaining 5% with your deposit. An example of this is if you looked at buying a property that was worth £150,000 with a 95% mortgage, you would be putting down £7,500 as your deposit and borrow the remaining £142,500 from the lender. 

95% Mortgage Advice in Beverley

Off the back of the March 2021 Budget, Boris Johnson announced a Mortgage Guarantee Scheme for mortgage lenders, making 95% mortgages more readily available from the bigger high street banks.   

This is fantastic news for First-Time Buyers and Home Movers alike, as this scheme will continue running until December 2022. Certain terms and conditions will apply though, which is something your Mortgage Advisor in Beverley will be able to look at, to see if you qualify.    

All our customers who opt to Get in Touch will receive a free, no-obligation mortgage consultation where one of our dedicated mortgage advisors will be able to make a recommendation on the best possible route for you to take.

Can I get a 95% mortgage?

95% mortgages are usually accessible by both First-Time Buyers in Beverley & those who are Moving Home in Beverley. Whilst saving for a 5% deposit sounds like a pretty straightforward concept, you’ll still need to have an acceptable credit score and prove that you are able to afford your monthly mortgage repayments, in order to access a 95% mortgage.

Improving your credit score

A good credit score is essential in the process of obtaining any mortgage, especially a 95% mortgage. Things like paying any current credit commitments on time, ensuring your addresses are updated and checking that you’re on the voters roll, can all help with your credit score.

Affordability 

Affordability is another one that is important to take note of. By giving the lender details of your income and monthly outgoings (things like your bank statements will be necessary for this) and any pre-existing credit commitments, your lender will be able to get a general overview of whether or not you are able to afford this type of mortgage.

Can my family help me get a 95% mortgage?

Nowadays we see lots of family members helping each other get onto the property ladder, especially parents looking to further their children’s lives. The way this usually happens is by gifting the person looking to find their home, the deposit required. Known through the industry as the “Bank of Mum & Dad, Gifted Deposits are only intended to be a gift, and not as a loan. The lender will need proof that this has been agreed, before it can be used towards your mortgage. 

How do I choose the right 95% mortgage?

When looking for a 95% mortgage, you want to make sure you have the right type of mortgage. Each mortgage type works differently, with that choice allowing you to find one that is most appropriate for your personal and financial situation. 

Some homeowners and home buyers prefer Fixed Rate or Tracker Mortgages, mortgage types which mean you either keep interest rates at a set amount for the term given or have your interest rates tracking the Bank of England base rates.

Alternatively, you might find that Interest-Only or a Repayment Mortgages are more your style. Interest-Only allows cheaper payments until you need to pay a lump sum at the end (mostly now used for Buy-to-Lets), whereas a Repayment mortgage (a normal mortgage if you’d like) means you’ll be paying interest and capital combined per month.

How can a bigger deposit help with my mortgage? 

Seeing as a mortgage is such a large financial outgoing, you need to be prepared and need to be aware. You might find things like higher interest rates, remortgaging difficulties due to less equity and then negative equity all cropping up if you’re not. 

There is no need to worry though, as all these can be avoided if you’re savvy enough with your process to begin with. The more deposit you put down for a property, the less risk the lender will see you as. 

A larger deposit, of say 10-15%, would not only reduce the rates of interest by a noticeable amount, but would also give the property more equity and reduce the risk of negative equity, thanks in part to you borrowing less against the property. 

So, whilst the risks may seem intimidating, planning ahead and saving for a bigger deposit to access something like a 90% or even an 85% mortgage will be a massive help in your mortgage journey and something you’ll be able to reap the rewards from in the future. 

Agreement in Principle and Soft Credit Searches

Mortgage Advice in Beverley

More and more people these days pay much closer attention to their credit rating, especially First Time Buyers as they tend to worry about being accepted. Consumer awareness of credit scoring is higher now than ever before. We’d say at least half of the people who contact us for the first time, have already looked at their credit report online.

There are many different credit reference agencies out there. Most people will have heard of Experian or Equifax, but we recommend potential new clients to use Check My File for a 30-day free trial, which is £14.99 a month thereafter and can be cancelled at any time. This is because of this report “sweeps” several of those reference agencies and collates the information into an easily understandable colour-coded report.

Often, clients ask if we will be doing a credit search on them, because they are aware that too many searches can have an adverse effect on their credit score. Lenders always run credit checks but we always seek a client’s permission before doing so. There are 2 different types of credit searches that Banks can run on a customer: hard searches or soft ones.

What is a hard credit search?

A hard credit search is an in-depth look at your credit report. Any financial institution carrying out one of these should seek your permission to do so. The advantage of a “hard” search is the lender is looking into your situation quite closely. If you pass the credit score then it’s fairly likely that your application will ultimately be successful. The only thing that can really go wrong from then on, is if for some reason you cannot provide satisfactory documentation to back up the information you have disclosed. Either that, or it turns out you have provided false details.

The bad news about a hard search though is that it leaves a “footprint” on your credit file. This means anyone who looks at your report in the future can see you have had a search carried out. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if you have several footprints registered in a short period of time then it could look like you applying for lots of credit at the same time.

The footprint does not state whether your application was successful or not. However, if you have several searches over a few weeks, then lenders’ systems could wrongly assume you are being declined on the basis of; “Why else would you go to lender number 2 unless lender number 1 had said no?”.

The odd hard footprint on your record from time to time is no big deal. There’s no need to worry too much about this, just be careful not to have too many.

What is a soft credit search?

A soft credit search is a “lighter touch” look at your financial situation. This is the kind of search that would routinely be carried out on price comparison websites. This would give you an indication of what products might be available to you. It can also be useful if someone wants to verify your identity.

Some mortgage lenders do soft searches in the first instance. More and more lenders seem to be changing to doing this type of search. Whilst the financial institution doing a soft search obtains less information about you than if they had done a hard search, an agreement in principle from one of these lenders is usually still an extremely strong signal that your full application will be accepted.

You will be able to see that someone has carried out a soft search on you if you check your credit file. The good news though, is that these searches are not visible to other financial institutions like banks. This means that you can apply for an agreement in principle for a mortgage, without it damaging your credit score. This is irrespective of whether it is successful or not.

If you are wanting to make an offer on a property, we always think it is an excellent idea to have your mortgage agreement in principle in place prior to contacting the estate agent. You want to give yourselves the best possible chance of securing the property you want at the lowest price so if you can present yourselves as having your finances in place then you are definitely putting yourself in a stronger position. Having the agreement in principle also sometimes puts the agent off trying to “cross-sell” their own in-house mortgage services to you.

How Much Can I Borrow For A Mortgage in Beverley?

Mortgage Advice in Beverley

The two most common questions we are asked on a daily basis are, “Can I get a mortgage in my situation?” and “How much can I borrow?”. In this article, we explain the latter which has changed quite a lot in the past decade.

Historic Rules

Back in the ’80s and ’90s, most mortgage applications were manually underwritten. That is to say, there was lots of “human intervention” in the process of approving mortgage applications. You’d make an appointment with your Building Society Manager, and they would interview you.

They would encourage you to save with them for a while until you prove yourself credit-worthy. The manager would then grant you the equivalent of an agreement in principle. This would then be followed by advice on how much they were prepared to lend.

This sounds very much like a highly personalised process with a common-sense approach. That being said, it could lead to inconsistent decision-making. The manager has the discretion to interpret the lending manual. In other words, it would be possible to approach the same Building Society in a different town or city. You could possibly obtain a different outcome.

With a view to eradicating the above and more importantly, cut costs, Lenders moved to automated affordability calculations. “Caps” were applied so they would lend you more than, say, 3 or 4 times your household income.

As the 2000s progressed, lenders were becoming more and more generous in how much they would lend. Some lenders would offer self-certified mortgages. This was where no background checks would be carried out as regards how much an applicant actually was earning!

The market crashed and to all intents and purposes, 2008-2010 were very difficult years if you were trying to get on the property ladder. The lenders battened down the hatches and created a very cautious (over-corrected) lending environment.

Nowadays Approach

The market recovered and in 2014 the regulator launched the Mortgage Market Review (MMR). This was a new set of guidelines for Lenders to adhere to. Gone were the old-style income multipliers which took little account of household expenditure. Before 2014, two applicants earning the same could borrow roughly the same as each other.

This was irrespective of how much they spent each month. Then came new affordability models. These took a much more forensic view of how mortgage applicants managed their money on a monthly basis.

There is still a “cap” in place (most Lenders will not go past 4.75 times your annual income) but your spending habits are analysed also. So, for example, if you have high childcare costs, lots of credit commitments and a student loan you will be offered less than your work-colleague who doesn’t have any of that expenditure.

We are still constantly surprised by the large variances lender to lender in how much (or little) they will lend. Some lenders seem to penalise low-earners (perhaps they are not looking for that type of applicant), some take pension contributions as a fixed outgoing so would often lend, say a public sector worker with a big pension deduction less than a private sector and so on.

It really is horses for courses and if you need to maximise your borrowing capability to obtain the home you need to buy then you’ll definitely need a Mortgage Broker in Beverley on your side who can research the market on your behalf to see if anyone will lend you the amount you need.

The Importance of Changing Your Address in Beverley

Credit Score Mortgage Advice in Beverley

It’s very likely that you will be asked what your credit score is like when it comes to applying for a mortgage. There are a plethora of factors that can affect your credit score. For instance, the fewer addresses you have on your record, the better your credit score.

As mentioned, fewer addresses on your file can support your mortgage application when done correctly.

We do find that many applicants, particularly First Time Buyers in Beverley, leave their previous addresses on their records. They may have done this accidentally or as a way to keep their credit score from lowering but they do need updating.

What information needs correcting?

There is a range of documents you will need to update whether it be bank statements, credit cards and electoral roll information. We do find that many applicants disregard this information as they believe it won’t harm their credit score, however, it can create a significant amount of damage.

You may be in a situation where you get an unpaid ticket that is sent through to your old address. If you don’t let the post office know to make sure all mail gets forwarded, the longer it goes unnoticed which can result in receiving a CCJ.

Receiving a CCJ on your credit file could result in losing lots of points on your credit file. This will damage your credit history and make things more difficult for you when it comes to being successful in your mortgage application.

Check before you apply

We do recommend that you give your application a thorough check from start to finish. Begin with your address by making sure that the address on all of your accounts (credit cards / current accounts) and electoral roll are all registered to your current address.

This is usually targeted at applicants who are currently living in rented accommodation and haven’t changed their address from their previous property.

It’s best you double-check everything when applying for a mortgage just in case you miss anything. Keep on top of your address, making sure everything is updated can make a positive impact on your mortgage application.

Find out the exact date you moved into your rented apartment / new home and when you moved out. This will prevent any cross-over that may show you were living in two different addresses at once.

If you don’t do this could lead to confusing the lender and could potentially cause damage to your credit file or mortgage application.

It will be very beneficial to have a Mortgage Broker in Beverley to provide a helping hand as they will make sure your application is perfect before it’s submitted. They will also check that all information is updated correctly to have the best possible chance of being accepted.

Impress the lender

Demonstrate to the lender that you tried your best to get your application accepted. You may have evidenced your deposit to show how you have saved up or you have consciously updated your address. Either way, it will massively help your application and impress them.

In the situation when you have an outdated address that is connected to one of your accounts, your lender will see that you didn’t check to see if any of your addresses needed updating. This could show to a lender that you haven’t taken things seriously.

Mortgage Advice in Beverley

To conclude, it’s important to change your address and any other factors stated above in order to prove to the lender that you are serious about this financial commitment. Therefore, we do strongly suggest that you check up on your file to make sure your application is up to date. If you are wanting a second set of eyes on your application, take advantage of our free mortgage appointment in Beverley.

Here at Beverleymoneyman, we have a team of expert Moving Home Mortgage Advisors in Beverley who are available 7 days a week. We look forward to helping you secure a great mortgage deal and get your application looking ready to go!

How Much Deposit Do I Need To Buy a House in Beverley?

The amount of deposit you need to purchase a home in Beverley will entirely depend on your situation and what your property plans are. In this article we take a look at how much you might need.

Why do I need a deposit anyway?

In the past, it was easy to get 100% mortgages and even higher. This thankfully is not the case anymore, as it is of a higher risk to mortgage lenders. Think about it, if you are borrowing 100% of the purchase price, fall into arrears and then the property price dips, that mortgage lender is at a loss.

This is why the mortgage lender needs a deposit, so that need you to put down a deposit simply to reduce their lending risk. There is also the frame of mind that investing your own money into a property makes it less likely for you to walk away if finances get difficult.

Furthermore, it could be argued that if you are not able to save up at least a 5% deposit, are you even ready to take on such a large financial commitment like a mortgage?

Won’t the government pay the deposit for me?

No, they cannot. Previously there existed the Help to Buy Equity Loan Scheme, though this has been discontinued.

I have a 5% deposit – is that enough?

At the moment, yes 5% is enough in lots of circumstances. Not all mortgage lenders will accept only a 5% deposit though so your options are more limited and normally you will need a reasonable credit score to qualify.

There are mortgage lenders out there that would consider you for a 95% mortgage with an average credit score but the rate of interest would be higher.

My credit history is poor – how much do I need to put down?

Many of the specialist lenders want you to put down at least 15% deposit if you have a poor credit history, once again as above this is simply to reduce their risk in case a repossession occurs.

It is much more difficult to obtain this type of mortgage than it was in the mid-2000s but it’s not impossible.

What about buy to let?

You’ve always needed to put down a larger deposit for buy to let mortgages in Beverley and most lenders at the moment are looking for 25%.

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some types of buy to let or commercial mortgages.

Can I take out a loan for the deposit?

This could be possible but the vast majority of lenders won’t let you do this, essentially this would still be 100% lending.

Can someone gift me the deposit?

Yes, this happens all the time. Generally, it’s “Bank of Mum and Dad” gifting or other family members but even family friends can gift you money as long as they can evidence the funds, prove who they are and confirm they are not expecting repayment of the gift.

Are there any circumstances at all where I don’t need a deposit?

If you are buying as a sitting tenant at a discount from the open market value, from a family member or if you qualify for a discount under the Right to Buy scheme then normally you don’t need to put any of your own money in as the equity is already “built-in” to the deal.

Please note that the above information is for reference purposes only and is not to be viewed as personal financial or mortgage advice.