A: Mortgage rates can go up or down year on year based upon what is happening with the economy. These factors are affected by both national and international issues and therefore can be very changeable, sudden and unpredictable. When economic changes happen, The Bank of England's Base Rate can either go up or down which typically causes lenders to increase or decrease their interest rates. Budget announcements can also cause lenders to change their interest rates, so keeping up to date with matters that affect the economy can help you understand what might happen with mortgage rates. 

A: Mortgages are calculated based on the loan amount, interest rate, loan term, and additional costs like property taxes and insurance, using a specific formula to determine monthly payments. Any one of this factors will either decrease or increase the mortgage calculation and it's a brokers job to look at mortgage calculators of lenders to establish a suitable product for a client. 

A: The decision on the term of a fixed rate is down to the circumstances if the individual and often the view people are taking on interest rates and what may happen in the future. It is common to fix a mortgage for two, five or 10 years, but there are other term options with lenders. It's important you speak to a mortgage broker for specific advice on how long you should fix for, or even if you should fix at all. 

A: When assessing whether or not to grant you a mortgage, lenders will be looking at how much you want to borrow; the size of your deposit; your credit history; your employment status; your income; your debt levels; any financial dependents, and your spending habits. 

A: A mortgage broker is able offer independent advice from a range of market products, find the most suitable solution for your needs and assist you through the application process. Some mortgage advisors may only be able to advise on a small range of market products. 

A: Yes, but it is likely to come with an Early Repayment Charge (ERC) if you will be coming out of a fixed rate product to pay off your mortgage. This is something you need to check with your lender if you are wanting to pay off your mortgage. You may wish to consider a plan for paying off your mortgage and speak to a broker about shorting your term to increase your payments, or if you wish to pay overpayments. Overpayments may be allowed by lenders of up to 10% of the outstanding balance per year, so it is worth planning ahead. 

A: Yes, mortgages can be transferred, often referred to as "porting," which allows you to move your existing mortgage to a new property while retaining the same terms and conditions. Not all mortgages can be ported and a broker can advise on whether porting is the most suitable option for you. 

A: The exact income you need can vary, with some lenders asking for between £15,000 and £25,000. It all depends on the lender and their view on amounts and types of income they accept in their criteria. For this reason, going to a mortgage broker, like HomeLife, that can look at the whole of the market will give you the best chance to find a mortgage that suits your circumstances and affordability. 

A: A Mortgage in Principle or Decision in Principle will be required by an estate agent to accept an offer made on a house. Some people like to have a MIP agreed when they are house hunting to be able to provide evidence of affordability straightaway. However, there is every possibility that the MIP may not be for the amount required for the final offer as purchase prices can change through the offer stage, and a new MIP will need to be applied for and approved. 

A: The best time to remortgage can be different for everyone, but the most common time is when your current deal is coming to an end. The time frame the application process can take may vary depending on your circumstances, the lender, and the legal work, and, therefore, we recommend that you start to think about arranging your remortgage appointment with us six months before your deal ends.