It's Free to Speak to an Advisor, 7 days, 8am - 10pm
It's Free to Speak to an Advisor, 7 days, 8am - 10pm
A Debt Management Plan (DMP) is a structured agreement between you and your creditors, aimed at gradually repaying your outstanding debts. The process begins with a thorough assessment of your debt level, allowing creditors to understand the extent of your financial commitments.
They will then analyse your income and regular expenses to create a tailored plan that fits your spending patterns. Once this information is gathered, a personalised DMP is developed, enabling you to repay your debts through manageable monthly instalments.
Let’s explore how a DMP can benefit you, particularly in your mortgage situation in London.
Surprisingly, a DMP can have a positive impact on your credit score. If you start with a below-average credit rating, consistent monthly payments and reducing your debt gradually can improve your score.
Essentially, as your score reflects the debt associated with your name, it stands to reason that it should increase as your financial situation improves.
With a stronger credit rating, you’re more likely to access better mortgage rates. However, bear in mind that a larger deposit is often required due to your ongoing debt obligations.
Through a DMP, you can avoid a default status – assuming one hasn’t already been declared. Once a default is registered, it stays on your record for six years, even if the debt is fully repaid. As your mortgage broker in London, we strongly advise against defaults whenever possible.
Seeking specialist mortgage advice in London can help you create a DMP to avoid defaults. Lenders often scrutinise defaults extensively, so it’s best to prevent this situation.
If you already have a default, it may be included in your DMP amount. However, its presence on your credit report could make loan approval more challenging.
A DMP can greatly help in organising your finances and regaining financial stability. Especially when considering a mortgage or remortgage application, a comprehensive financial review – including DMP payments and regular expenses – is essential.
For instance, cutting down on non-essential spending before applying for a mortgage demonstrates responsible financial management. This also helps lenders view your financial habits positively, particularly when you’re actively managing a DMP.
In some cases, you might choose to consolidate your existing debts by remortgaging in London, increasing the total mortgage amount but securing your debt against an owned asset.
When considering debt consolidation into your mortgage, it’s important to seek advice from a mortgage advisor in London We strongly advise against this without professional guidance.
You can schedule a free mortgage appointment with our experts online. Simply follow our Get Started process to select a date and time that suits you best.
For first time buyers in London, getting an agreement in principle (AIP) is an important first step towards securing a mortgage. Also known as a mortgage or decision in principle, this document gives you an idea of how much you could borrow before formally applying for a mortgage.
Although not a final commitment, an AIP provides an estimate of the maximum amount you’re eligible to borrow. It’s a helpful tool in the home-buying process, giving you a clear picture of your borrowing capacity. This helps narrow down your property search to homes that fit within your budget.
A soft credit search, also known as a soft credit check or inquiry, is a type of credit check that doesn’t affect your credit score. Soft searches are often used for background checks, pre-approval processes, or when you’re checking your own credit report.
When you apply for an agreement in principle, lenders typically perform a soft credit search to evaluate your creditworthiness without impacting your credit file. This means you can explore mortgage options without the concern of lowering your credit score.
Unlike a soft credit search, a hard credit search, also referred to as a hard credit check or inquiry, does impact your credit score. Hard searches occur when you apply for a mortgage.
Lenders perform a thorough examination of your credit history and financial background to evaluate your risk as a borrower. Each hard search leaves a mark on your credit file, and having multiple hard searches within a short period can temporarily lower your credit score.
As a reputable mortgage broker in London, we are dedicated to guiding you through the mortgage process and helping you understand the impact of credit searches.
With access to a diverse array of lenders and mortgage products, we can find deals tailored specifically to your unique circumstances. During your free mortgage appointment, we will recommend the most suitable lenders based on your financial situation and preferences.
Moreover, our mortgage advisors in London can help you in avoiding unnecessary hard credit searches by connecting you with lenders who are more likely to approve your application based on softer search criteria.
By capitalising on our expertise and industry knowledge, we can simplify the process of obtaining an agreement in principle (AIP) and ensure that you approach lenders who are inclined to offer favourable terms.
Our mortgage advisors in London will walk you through each stage of the mortgage application journey, from the initial assessment to the final approval, providing invaluable support and advice throughout.
With our help, you can obtain an agreement in principle within 24 hours of your appointment, empowering first time buyers in London with the confidence that they are making well-informed decisions in line with their long-term financial objectives.
An Individual Voluntary Agreement (IVA) operates as a legally binding arrangement between somebody who is struggling with heir debts and the creditor that they owe their debt to.
The primary aim of an IVA is to establish a well-organised structure for you to pay back your debts on a monthly basis, typically spanning over a period of roughly 5 years, with the goal to help you get your debts under control.
An Insolvency Practitioner plays a very vital role as a representative of you in this situation, engaging with creditors to guarantee the timely and consistent fulfilment of your outstanding payment commitments.
While having an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) can present challenges when seeking a mortgage, it is not an insurmountable hurdle. In such situations, we strongly recommend consulting with a mortgage broker in London to explore available options.
Engaging with a professional is essential, primarily due to the terms and conditions outlined in your IVA agreement. Committing to an IVA involves various agreements that can impact your eligibility for loans, including mortgages.
These terms typically remain in effect until you have successfully repaid all outstanding debts. Seeking guidance from a mortgage broker becomes key to navigate complexities and explore viable solutions tailored to your circumstances.
Affordability is the primary consideration in an IVA. Creditors require assurance that you can sustain your repayments while maintaining sufficient disposable income to cover housing and other essential living expenses.
Considering an IVA often implies a history of significant credit challenges, and obtaining a mortgage in London with an IVA might pose difficulties. Mortgage lenders are typically cautious about lending to individuals deemed high-risk due to past credit issues.
Alongside assessing your credit history, lenders scrutinise your disposable income. With an IVA, a substantial portion of your income is likely allocated for debt repayment.
Combining this with potential mortgage payments may raise concerns about having enough remaining income for essential living expenses. People who are looking at moving home in London may want to consider waiting to make any decisions.
As a strategic approach, we recommend reducing a significant portion of your debt before exploring mortgage options.
After settling your IVA, it’s advisable to assess your current financial situation thoroughly before diving into the mortgage process. Rebuilding your credit score, accumulating a deposit, and carefully planning your move into a new home are important steps.
Affordability remains a priority in the home-buying process, and confirming your financial means for a mortgage is essential.
Our team of specialist mortgage advisors in London is ready to help evaluate your mortgage affordability, explore suitable options, and tailor a solution that aligns with your unique personal and financial circumstances.
Feel free to connect with a mortgage advisor in London for a free consultation online or via phone.
Embarking on the university journey not only promises newfound freedom and independence but also comes with significant costs, especially when it comes to accommodation fees.
The quality of student accommodation varies, and while some may have excellent landlords, others may face issues with neglectful ones. This frustration has led some students to consider an alternative – becoming their own landlord through a student mortgage.
This approach not only offers short-term cost savings but also provides long-term benefits, allowing students to take control of their living situation and create a more fulfilling university experience.
Opting for a student mortgage isn’t just about reducing accommodation costs; it serves as an early entry into the property market. Popular among higher education students, these mortgages offer flexibility, allowing students to sell the property or retain it as a buy to let in London.
As academic journeys progress, so does the potential equity in the property. This equity can be converted into cash after completing the course, providing financial flexibility for various purposes.
The diverse possibilities for the property give students the freedom to make decisions based on evolving needs and aspirations.
While securing a student mortgage presents financial challenges, diligent planning and expert guidance can overcome them. As mortgage brokers in London, we thoroughly assess eligibility, considering factors such as the ability to provide a deposit, financial capacity, and income sources.
Government schemes and various strategies, such as increasing the deposit amount or obtaining an Agreement in Principle (AIP), can enhance the reliability of the application.
Our dedicated mortgage advisors in London provide tailored advice, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the financial requirements for a student mortgage.
Demonstrating reliability as a mortgage applicant is important for success. Strategies like opting for a higher deposit amount, exploring government-backed schemes, and obtaining an Agreement in Principle can showcase financial stability and responsibility.
These strategies not only strengthen the application but also contribute to a smoother approval process. For personalised insights and guidance, our expert mortgage advisors in London are available to help.
Specific criteria must be met for student mortgage approval, including the property’s location within a 10-mile radius of the university and its ideal size of 3-4 bedrooms. Planning for unused rooms and exploring the option of renting them out can be a smart financial strategy.
Lenders, aware of the risks associated with lending to students, implement precautions by requiring a guarantor.
Selecting the right guarantor is key, meeting criteria such as being below 65 years old, owning a property in the UK, and residing within that property. This provides lenders with a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Our team is ready to help students in realising their aspirations for a student mortgage and providing tailored mortgage advice for first time buyers in London. Contact us today to assess your eligibility and embark on your journey towards student homeownership.
Embarking on the journey to purchase your first home in London is an exciting milestone, albeit one that can seem a bit overwhelming. To confidently navigate the complexities of home buying and mortgage processes, it’s essential to understand the steps involved.
As a trusted mortgage broker in London, Londonmoneyman is here to provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of the journey awaiting you as a first time buyer in London.
We’ll acquaint you with the invaluable assistance we offer and ensure you are well-prepared to commence your homeownership journey.
For those beginning the journey as a first time buyer in London, it all starts with thorough research into the housing market and a careful assessment of affordability.
Given London’s diverse neighbourhoods, each with its unique character and property prices, exploring different areas becomes important.
Factors like amenities, transportation links, and proximity to schools should be considered. This exploration enables you to make informed decisions aligning with your preferences and budget.
Saving for a deposit is a pivotal milestone for individuals venturing into homeownership for the first time in London. The size of your deposit will impact mortgage options and interest rates available to you.
Londonmoneyman offers expert mortgage advice tailored to your needs, including insights on efficient deposit-saving strategies.
We guide you through government schemes like Shared Ownership in London, making it more feasible for you to take that important first step onto the property ladder.
Securing a mortgage stands as a significant milestone, and at Londonmoneyman, we specialise in helping first time buyers in London in finding the right mortgage deals.
Our experienced mortgage advisors in London carefully assess your financial circumstances, providing guidance on various mortgage options. They explain terms, interest rates, and repayment options, ensuring you make informed decisions aligning with your budget and long-term goals.
With a mortgage agreement in principle secured, the next step is the exciting search for your dream home in London. Utilise online property portals and local estate agents to explore available properties in your desired area.
Property viewings become vital, allowing you to envision your life in potential homes, considering factors like proximity to amenities and transportation links. Careful assessment ensures you find a home that meets your needs and goals.
After finding the perfect property, the next phase involves presenting an offer to the seller, progressing to the conveyancing process upon acceptance.
Conveyancing, a series of legal procedures, ensures the property’s freedom from issues. Londonmoneyman can recommend reliable solicitors or conveyancers to manage legal intricacies, providing assurance for first-time buyers.
First time buyers in London arrange property surveys and valuations. Surveyors evaluate the property’s condition, identifying potential issues. Valuation reports ensure the agreed-upon price aligns with market worth, important for informed decisions.
Upon completion of the survey and valuation, finalising your mortgage application is the next step. Londonmoneyman helps in collecting necessary documents and submitting them to the lender, ensuring a smooth and stress-free application process.
Once your mortgage application is approved, the final stages involve exchanging contracts and completing the purchase. Legal commitments are made, and on completion day, remaining funds transfer, officially making you a homeowner in London.
Starting your journey as a first time buyer in London is a mix of excitement and nerves. With Londonmoneyman’s guidance, you can confidently navigate the home buying and mortgage process.
Our seasoned mortgage advisors specialise in helping first time buyers throughout the entire journey. Reach out to Londonmoneyman today and take the first step towards making your homeownership dreams a reality in London.
The era of 100% and even 125% mortgages feels like a distant memory. With the credit crunch now in the past, lenders have regained confidence and are once again willing to offer 95% mortgages to first time buyers in London.
Demonstrating a consistent ability to save each month is a reasonable expectation. It not only provides a sense of financial discipline but also assures lenders that you have a stake in the process, indicating a commitment to meet your mortgage obligations even in challenging times.
We understand that saving for a deposit can be a daunting task for many individuals, often serving as a significant hurdle for those aiming to enter the property market. This challenge becomes especially pronounced for individuals with families or those currently residing in rented accommodation.
A larger deposit typically translates to a lower interest rate, making it a more cost-effective and advantageous choice in the long run. This is primarily because a substantial deposit signals reliability to lenders.
Different bands in interest rates exist, influenced by factors such as the size of your deposit.
The percentage of your mortgage relative to the property’s value provides lenders with insights into your commitment.
Higher deposits lead to lower interest rates, ensuring a more secure and satisfying home purchase experience in the long term.
In certain limited scenarios, successfully achieving a mortgage with a smaller deposit is possible. The lender may consider the monthly payment as an additional credit commitment, allowing for a reduced mortgage amount.
However, this approach is generally met with resistance from most lenders, as it essentially involves borrowing 100% of the purchase price.
Many lenders accept gifted deposits, including those from family members and friends. The sender of the gift needs to confirm that it is indeed a gift, not a loan, and must provide identification and proof of funds for anti-money laundering purposes.
Some individuals turn to the “Bank of Mum and Dad,” where parents gift funds to their children as a contribution towards the deposit.
Bank statements play an important role in evidencing funds for anti-money laundering purposes. Lenders prefer a clear picture of how the money has been accumulated, offering genuine insights into your financial situation.
Documentation supporting significant deposits, such as receipts from asset sales, ensures transparency and strengthens your financial credibility. Large cash deposits may pose challenges, but a well-documented audit trail can simplify the application process.
Generally, genuine discounted purchases, such as acquiring a property below its market value, can be accepted by some lenders as the guaranteed deposit.
For example, if a property is worth £100,000 and is offered at a discounted price, like £90,000, certain lenders may recognise this as a valid deposit.
This is particularly relevant for individuals eligible for Right to Buy Schemes from local authorities or other social landlords, where our mortgage advisors in London can help in finding suitable Right to Buy mortgages in London.
Recent statistics reveal a notable surge in property prices, outpacing the growth of wages.
To navigate this financial landscape, many individuals explore joint property purchases with partners or friends, providing a means to afford a suitable home at a more attainable cost.
Opting for joint ownership often results in an increased borrowing capacity, as lenders consider the combined incomes of all parties during affordability assessments.
Surprisingly, certain lenders accommodate up to four individuals co-owning a property. In such arrangements, if one co-owner decides to cease mortgage contributions, the legal right to reside in the property remains with the remaining joint owners unless stipulated otherwise by a court.
For those contemplating future mortgage adjustments, obtaining consent from all co-owners is imperative. Thus, long-term planning becomes essential to address potential diverging preferences.
‘Joint tenancy’ emerges as the preferred tenure for married couples or those in civil partnerships.
In the unfortunate event of either party’s demise, the property seamlessly transfers to the surviving co-owner, with relevant life insurance ensuring mortgage repayment. Future decisions regarding remortgaging or selling necessitate agreement from all named parties on the tenancy.
When purchasing with relatives or friends, ‘tenants in common’ often proves popular, offering joint co-ownership without the constraint of equal shares. This flexibility accommodates scenarios where one party makes a more substantial financial contribution.
‘Tenants in common’ further grants the independence to act autonomously, allowing the sale or transfer of a share without unanimous consent.
All mortgage borrowers bear joint and several liability for payments. Even if a co-owner ceases contributions, the remaining party remains fully liable, preventing the mortgage from falling into arrears.
Recognising this joint responsibility is important, as mortgage arrears may hinder future borrowing opportunities.
Lenders require confidence in an individual’s ability to manage monthly payments independently before approving such a transition. Initiating a new chapter by purchasing a home with a partner is an exciting prospect, but it’s essential to consider the financial commitment involved.
Making changes to mortgage arrangements post-separation entails challenges, and lenders conduct thorough affordability assessments to ensure continued financial stability.
Consulting a mortgage advisor in London before approaching a lender can provide valuable insights, exploring options and potential lenders willing to consider transfer requests.
Additionally, seeking support from family members, such as replacing an ex-partner on the mortgage or offering financial assistance, can ease the transition.
In the event of a separation and a departure from the family home, shared responsibility for mortgage payments persists, even with a prior agreement that one party assumes full responsibility.
Monitoring credit reports becomes important, especially if monetary support is extended to the ex-partner, as defaults may impact personal credit scores.
Maintaining a link with an existing mortgage affects lending considerations for a new home purchase. Clear agreements on property outcomes in unexpected circumstances are important for individuals entering joint home purchases, whether as first time buyers in London or those moving home in London.
For comprehensive guidance on joint property ownership, removal of a name from a mortgage, or considerations for a remortgage in London, scheduling a free mortgage appointment with our knowledgeable team is recommended.
When venturing into property ownership, you face a choice between two paths: an upfront purchase or securing a mortgage for gradual repayment over time.
Both options come with their costs, and while an upfront payment demands a significant initial sum, opting for a mortgage incurs expenses over the long term.
Opting for an upfront property purchase is a commendable investment, whether you plan to reside in the property or engage in buy to let in London. Entering the property market positions you favourably for future financial stability.
In most scenarios, cash buyers hold an advantageous position over those opting for mortgages.
Their reliability is a key factor for sellers, as cash transactions ensure swift sales without the complications of property chains, which often lead to delays. Cash buyers sidestep affordability checks and can proceed promptly.
Moving home in London can be inherently stressful, but a cash buyer accelerates the process, avoiding potential hurdles associated with mortgage procedures.
While mortgage applicants can also expedite the process with proper preparation, involving an experienced mortgage broker in London ensures a smoother journey through the intricacies of property transactions.
Choosing a mortgage means undertaking a substantial financial commitment, often spanning 20-25+ years. A cash offer alleviates the burden of repaying a loan, sidestepping interest payments that would inflate monthly costs in a mortgage scenario.
When cash isn’t readily available, the alternative is securing a mortgage.
Rather than depleting life savings for a property purchase, opting to save while obtaining a mortgage presents a viable alternative. Both routes culminate in property ownership, and with a good credit score, securing a mortgage may require only a 5% deposit.
Monthly repayments vary based on interest rates, mortgage products, and property specifics, allowing for gradual payment and potential overpayments.
Properties marked “cash buyers only” warrant caution, often indicating underlying issues or the need for repairs. While a mortgage might be challenging for such properties, it’s wise to conduct a property survey irrespective of the payment method chosen.
This precautionary step, recommended for both cash and mortgage buyers, ensures a thorough understanding of the property’s condition.
Undertaking a property purchase without guidance could place you at a disadvantage compared to those with a mortgage advisor in London. An advisor simplifies the moving home process, and our goal is to provide a swift and friendly advice service.
Consider reaching out to our team for a free consultation to navigate your moving home journey effectively.
Taking the initial step onto the property ladder can be an intimidating process, particularly for those planning to purchase a property individually.
To address this, we often hear from first time buyers in London considering the option of buying a property with a friend or partner. This approach allows the consideration of both incomes when determining the maximum mortgage amount, increasing the likelihood of mortgage approval.
However, it’s important to bear in mind that if one party defaults, the other may become fully responsible for the entire mortgage. As your trusted mortgage broker in London, we offer valuable insights on factors to consider when entering a property arrangement with another individual:
Some lenders permit up to four individuals to jointly co-own a property. However, it’s essential to exercise caution in selecting co-owners, as a higher number increases the likelihood of someone withdrawing from the arrangement.
Additionally, if you decide to increase your mortgage later, unanimous agreement from all borrowers is necessary. Therefore, considering your future plans and the duration of your stay in the property is key.
Joint tenancies are typically preferred by civil partners or married couples, where the property automatically transfers to the surviving owner in the event of one’s death. Joint tenancy aligns both owners as a single entity in legal terms.
This arrangement is common among married couples, ensuring smooth ownership transfer in unfortunate circumstances. However, for relatives or friends who jointly purchase, ‘tenants in common’ may be an alternative.
In this scenario, both parties equally own the property, but they aren’t obliged to hold equal shares. This allows for individual actions, such as selling or transferring one’s share.
Mortgage lenders assert that all borrowers are jointly and severally liable. If one party fails to contribute their share of the mortgage, the others are obligated to cover the shortfall and pay the full amount.
Despite the intent not to split up in the future, unforeseen circumstances may arise, necessitating changes to the mortgage. When children are involved, the remaining party may wish to take over the mortgage independently.
Efficient remortgage advice in London becomes important in such cases. The lender will need to confirm the remaining applicant’s ability to afford the mortgage independently, even if past payments were made without assistance.
In situations involving a change in ownership, a mortgage advisor in London can guide through the process.
In the event of separation or divorce, all parties remain responsible for joint financial commitments, including the mortgage on the family home.
Even if an agreement is made for one party to make all payments, lenders consider the mortgage on the previous property when assessing eligibility for a new mortgage. Seeking mortgage advice in London before making an offer is essential in these instances, as lenders vary in their lending policies.
Our mortgage broker in London considers these nuances when recommending suitable lenders for mortgage agreement applications.
Instances of adverse credit are not uncommon, prompting many clients to seek specialist mortgage advice in London. Whether it’s missed payments or a lower credit score, these situations can pose challenges in obtaining a mortgage.
A single missed mortgage payment or seemingly minor issues, like a lapse in payment to a mobile phone provider, can result in a default on your credit report. This can be detrimental to your future mortgage prospects, as lenders may view it as a risk indicator.
While such instances don’t automatically disqualify you from securing a mortgage, specialist assistance may be necessary. High street banks, often risk-averse, may decline your application, especially if you have a smaller deposit.
Specialist lenders, on the other hand, consider factors such as when the default occurred. The further in the past it is, especially if tied to life events like separation, illness, or redundancy, the more likely they are to offer assistance.
Mistakes made in youth can have lasting financial consequences, but solutions are available, even for historic mortgage arrears or county court judgements.
Below, we’ve compiled helpful responses addressing common scenarios related to bad credit mortgages in London and surrounding areas.
Regardless of your past credit issues, obtaining an up-to-date copy of your credit report is essential. This report, available online at no cost, is crucial before applying for a mortgage.
Multiple unnecessary credit searches can further harm your credit rating, making it imperative to be informed about your credit history beforehand.
The impact of credit problems varies based on individual circumstances. While income and deposits may be sufficient to secure a favourable mortgage rate, lenders assess the risk. Confidence in your ability to make consistent mortgage payments without arrears is vital to lenders.
Despite complexities, various routes exist for securing a mortgage with bad credit. Speaking with a dedicated specialist mortgage advisor in London is the next logical step to explore tailored mortgage solutions.
Financial struggles leading to missed mortgage payments can be challenging. Even a momentary lapse, easily repayable, can appear on your record as a missed payment.
When seeking a remortgage or new mortgage after moving home in London, lenders evaluate the risk. A dedicated mortgage broker in London with experience in helping clients with bad credit can guide you through your mortgage journey.
Clients may face diverse adverse credit issues affecting their mortgage process. These problems range from missed mortgage payments to credit card or loan defaults, County Court Judgements (CCJs), and even bankruptcy.
While these situations present challenges, they are not insurmountable. Specialist lenders, including those on our panel, consider individual circumstances. Though the process may be longer with potential hurdles and higher rates, there are avenues for success.
Improving your credit score is advisable to enhance your chances and access better rates, and our comprehensive mortgage guide can offer valuable insights into this process.
Read our 15 Reviews
Londonmoneyman.com & Londonmoneyman are trading styles of UK Moneyman Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
UK Moneyman Limited is Registered in England, No. 6789312 | Registered Address: 10 Consort Court, Hull, HU9 1PU.
Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
We are entered on the Financial Services Register No. 627742 at www.register.fca.org.uk
Contact
Follow Us
Londonmoneyman.com & Londonmoneyman are trading styles of UK Moneyman Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
UK Moneyman Limited is Registered in England, No. 6789312 | Registered Address: 10 Consort Court, Hull, HU9 1PU.
Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
We are entered on the Financial Services Register No. 627742 at www.register.fca.org.uk
Speak to an Advisor – It’s free!
7 Days a Week, 8am – 10pm