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Articles by
Louis Mason
Louis Mason
Louis Mason is Marketing and Communications Director at Oportfolio Mortgages and has more than ten years of experience working within financial services. Louis oversees Oportfolio’s marketing and communications, producing and managing mortgage-related content across the website, including guides, news articles, market commentary and case studies. He works closely with Oportfolio’s mortgage advisers and other industry professionals to turn complex mortgage and property topics into clear, accessible information for borrowers. His writing covers a broad range of subjects including mortgage affordability, first-time buyers, remortgaging, buy-to-let, high-net-worth and complex mortgages, lender criteria and developments in the UK mortgage and property markets.
Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor Mortgages
A joint borrower sole proprietor mortgage can allow another person’s income to support your mortgage without them necessarily owning the property. Find out how JBSP mortgages work, which lenders offer them, the stamp duty implications and what supporting borrowers need to know.
Can You Get a Mortgage on a Flat With a Short Lease?
Buying a flat with a short lease? Discover how remaining lease length affects mortgage eligibility, lender criteria, property valuations and your options.
UK Mortgage Market Update: 28th of September 2026
UK mortgage rates continued rising between the 21st and 28th of September, but not every lender followed the same direction. We examine the latest fixed rates, lender changes and what they mean for buyers and homeowners.
Could UK Interest Rates Rise Again? What HSBC’s Latest Economic Outlook Means for Mortgage Borrowers
Could UK interest rates rise again? We look at HSBC’s latest economic outlook, what could happen to Bank Rate and inflation, and what it could mean for mortgage borrowers in 2026 and 2027.
Can I Change My Mortgage After Receiving an Offer?
Already received your mortgage offer but found a better rate? We explain whether you can change mortgage product or lender before completion and when switching could be worthwhile.
UK Mortgage Market Update – 21st of September 2026
UK mortgage rates rose sharply between the 14th and 21st of September despite the Bank of England holding Bank Rate at 3.75%. We look at the latest fixed rates, lender changes, house prices and what borrowers should watch next.
Precise Mortgages Criteria: New Interest-Only, LTV & Property Rules
Precise Mortgages has expanded its residential mortgage criteria, including interest-only lending up to 75% LTV, consideration of flats above 20 storeys and wider age and income eligibility. We explain what’s changed and who could benefit.
Can I Make an Offer on a House Without a Mortgage in Principle?
You don’t legally need a Mortgage in Principle to make an offer on a house, but having one can strengthen your position as a buyer. Here’s when to get an AIP, what it proves and what happens after your offer is accepted.
UK Mortgage Market Update – 14th of September 2026
UK mortgage rates continued to rise between the 7th and 14th of September 2026, but new data suggests buyer demand may be starting to improve. Here’s what changed this week and what borrowers should watch next.
Does a Bigger Deposit Get You a Better Mortgage Rate?
A bigger deposit can help you access lower mortgage rates, but more isn’t always better. Learn how LTV bands affect mortgage pricing and when increasing your deposit could make a difference.
UK Mortgage Market Update – 7th of September 2026
UK mortgage rates have started rising again as swap rates increase, while new data shows house prices falling annually for the first time since 2023. Here’s what changed between 31 August and 7 September 2026.
Can You Get a Mortgage on a Flat Above a Shop?
Can you get a mortgage on a flat above a shop? Find out what lenders consider, including the business below, your deposit, access, lease, mortgage valuation and future resaleability.
UK Mortgage Market Update – 1st of September 2026
UK house prices rose 1.6% annually in August while mortgage approvals fell to their lowest level since January 2024. We look at the latest mortgage rates, lender changes and what they mean for borrowers.
Virgin Money Highlights Interest-Only Mortgage Options for Borrowers
Virgin Money has highlighted its interest-only mortgage options, including borrowing up to 75% LTV and £1 million, alongside a range of accepted repayment strategies.
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