Questions

Straight answers, sorted by situation

Find your situation below. If your question is not here, ask us on a free call; it takes twenty minutes.

First-time buyers

How much deposit do I need?: Lenders start at 5% of the purchase price. At 10% the rates improve noticeably, and again at 15% and 25%. Gifted deposits from family are accepted by most lenders with a signed letter.
When should I speak to you, before or after I find a house?: Before. An agreement in principle takes us about 48 hours once we have your documents, and estate agents take offers more seriously when you have one.
Does a bad credit history rule me out?: Rarely. A missed payment three years ago matters much less than a missed payment last month. Tell us on the first call and we will choose lenders who will look at it fairly.

How early can I arrange my next deal?: Most lenders let you secure a new rate up to six months before your current one ends. If rates fall in the meantime, we can usually move you to the lower one before completion.
Is it cheaper to stay with my current lender?: Sometimes. We compare your lender’s product transfer with the rest of the market, fees included, and arrange whichever is cheaper over the new fix. Our fee is the same either way.
Can I borrow more when I remortgage?: Yes, if your income and the value of your home support it. We will show you what the extra borrowing costs each month and over the whole term.

How much deposit does a buy-to-let need?: Usually 25% of the purchase price. A few lenders go to 80% loan-to-value, but the rental cover test often limits the loan before the deposit does.
Should I buy in my own name or through a company?: It depends on your tax position, so ask your accountant. We will show you the mortgage options and costs for both, and arrange whichever you choose.
Can I let out my current home instead of selling it?: Yes, with a let-to-buy arrangement: a buy-to-let mortgage on your current home and a new residential mortgage on the next. We arrange both together.

Is the first call really free?: Yes. Twenty minutes, no obligation, and we will tell you on the call if we do not think we can help.
Do you only work with people in Bath?: No. Most clients are within twenty miles of the office, but we arrange mortgages anywhere in England and Wales by phone and video.
How long does it take to get a mortgage offer?: Usually two to four weeks from a full application, depending on the lender and how quickly the valuation is booked.
What happens to my documents?: They are stored securely for as long as the law requires us to keep advice records, and then deleted. Our privacy notice has the detail.

[Risk warning — your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Use the exact wording required by your regulator.]