Mortgage News, Insights & Advice
All the latest UK mortgage news, insights and advice from the world of mortgage lending and Oportfolio
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.
Mortgages for Teachers: Your Complete Guide to Getting on the Property Ladder
If you're a teacher thinking of buying your first home, or indeed your second home, you might be asking yourself how having a teaching career influences your mortgage. The good news is that there are advisers and lenders who have experience of facilitating teachers in...
How We Helped Secure a Fast Further Advance in Just 2 Weeks
At Oportfolio Mortgages, we’re all about finding real solutions for real people quickly, efficiently, and with as little stress as possible. This recent client success story is the perfect example of how our team goes above and beyond when time is of the essence, to...
TMW Launches Competitive Buy-to-Let Mortgage Rates from Just 2.79%
The Mortgage Works (TMW), the specialist buy-to-let lending arm of Nationwide Building Society, has announced rate reductions across its buy-to-let mortgage range. From today, selected products for both new and existing customers will be lowered by up to 0.35%, with...
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Mortgage?
Applying for a mortgage in the UK may appear stressful, especially if it's your first time. One of the most common reasons for delays in the approval of a mortgage could be lack or insufficient documentation. But with proper preparation, you can walk through the...
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage
Thinking about applying for a mortgage? Before you do, there's one important number you need to check: your credit score. A strong credit score can be the difference between being approved for a competitive mortgage, or being declined altogether. The good news? Even...
What is the First Homes Scheme?
If you're trying to buy your first home in the UK, it can feel like the dream's getting further out of reach, with house prices climbing and mortgage rules getting stricter. But there's good news. The First Homes Scheme could be your affordable key to getting on the...
Fixed vs. Variable Rate Mortgages – Which One Is Right for You?
Of course, when you get a mortgage, one of the biggest choices you'll make is whether or not to use a fixed or variable rate. Both have pros and cons, and which one is best for you will depend on your personal finance, how much risk you're willing to take, and what...
Mortgage Broker South West London
Looking for a mortgage broker in South West London? Oportfolio is based in Putney and provides expert mortgage advice to buyers, homeowners and landlords across South West London.
How Rising Interest Rates Are Affecting London Mortgages
With increasing interest rates, homeowners and buyers in London are experiencing increased mortgage costs and less stringent affordability checks. It is essential to understand how these impacts will have on your planning for finances in the current economic climate....
Buy-to-Let Mortgages in London: What You Need to Know
London buy-to-let property is a smart long-term investment. But buy-to-let property loans are treated differently than regular residential mortgages. First-time landlord or portfolio extension, an understanding of the way they work and how to secure the best deal is...
Stamp Duty Explained for London Homebuyers
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a key cost that London homebuyers must include in their budget. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to expand your portfolio of properties, understanding how the tax is charged will avoid unexpected fees and enable you to better...
UK Remortgage Activity Rises in May as Owners Seek Stability
The UK remortgage market showed renewed momentum in May 2025, with fresh data revealing a 12% surge in instructions compared to April 2025, according to the latest LMS Monthly Remortgage Snapshot. This sharp increase points to growing consumer interest in remortgaging...
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