Mortgage News, Insights & Advice
All the latest UK mortgage news, insights and advice from the world of mortgage lending and Oportfolio
HSBC Eases Mortgage Rules for Fixed-Term Contract Workers
HSBC has relaxed its mortgage lending criteria for certain borrowers on fixed-term contracts. Discover what the changes mean for doctors, teachers, UAE residents and anyone applying for a mortgage.
Key Man Insurance: Secure Your Business
What is key man insurance and why is it important? Discover how key man insurance protects UK businesses, what it covers, how much it costs, and how key person insurance can safeguard your company’s future.
Can I Get a Mortgage If I’m Paid in US Dollars or Foreign Currency?
Are you paid in US dollars, euros or another foreign currency? Learn how UK mortgage lenders assess overseas income and how it could affect your mortgage application.
We Helped Our Client Through Divorce And Property Struggles
Our client recently faced the complex and emotionally charged task of separating finances and property ownership after splitting from his partner. The couple had a joint mortgage on their residential property, a buy-to-let (BTL) property with a mortgage, and a second...
Property For Sale in Putney
Putney, a picturesque suburb of South West London, has long been a sought-after location for homebuyers. Conveniently located next to the River Thames, this charming area boasts a vibrant community, excellent amenities, and superb transport links. Whether you're...
Property Sales Surge And NatWest Reduces Mortgage Rates
From the 2nd of July 2024, NatWest is implementing a series of rate reductions across its mortgage product range, providing potential savings for both new and existing customers. This strategic move comes as the UK property market experiences a notable upswing, with...
NatWest Set To Reduce New Build Deposit Contribution
NatWest has announced a significant change to its mortgage lending criteria, which is poised to make a substantial impact on the new build property market. The high street bank has increased its loan-to-value (LTV) ratios for new build homes, a move that will enable...
What Is Stamp Duty For First-Time-Buyers?
Purchasing a property is going to be expensive. Unfortunately there is no sugar coating it! Most homebuyers understand that there will be associated costs with purchasing a property. But many don’t know what these costs are, or what they mean. One significant cost...
Barclays Mortgage Rates Cut
Finally, some news that we have all almost literally been holding our breaths for! Barclays Bank has announced reductions in its mortgage rates, becoming the first of the 'Big 6' mortgage lenders to do so after the Bank of England hit its inflation target of 2%. The...
Adverse Credit Mortgage Criteria Eased by Hinckley & Rugby
In a significant move to make homeownership more accessible to different types of borrowers, Hinckley & Rugby for Intermediaries has announced relaxed criteria on its Credit Flex adverse credit mortgage product, designed for borrowers with adverse credit...
Metro Bank Buy-to-Let Mortgage and Interest-Only Changes
Metro Bank has recently announced significant enhancements to its interest-only and buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage criteria, marking a strategic move to strengthen its position as a leading specialist lender on the high street. These changes are designed to offer greater...
Halifax Minimum Mortgage Amount Increases
Halifax has announced an increase in the minimum mortgage amount for their 2 year and 5 year fixed-rate products, available through selected mortgage intermediaries. Historically, Halifax's minimum mortgage amount was £25,000, which is considered one of the lowest...
Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Early? Pros & Cons UK
Should you pay off your mortgage early? We explain the benefits and disadvantages of becoming mortgage-free, from interest savings and ERCs to liquidity and overpayments.
How Can You Reduce Mortgage Payments?
The last few months have been tough, there's no question about that. The rising cost of living in the UK has meant that the average person is now paying more for utilities like gas, water, and electricity. Food and drink prices have soared, and petrol and diesel now...
What Is A Product Transfer Mortgage?
Most mortgage borrowers are pretty clued up on the initial terms of their loan. Well, at least they should be if their mortgage broker has explained things to them! Normally you would fix your mortgage for a period of 2 to 5 years and enjoy the rate and product you...
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