Category: First Time Buyers
-
How Lenders Decide: Inside the 2026 Mortgage Underwriting Process
Learn how UK lenders decide on mortgages in 2026, the documents you need, AIP vs full offer, and tips to avoid rejection.
-
Your Home-Buying Criteria Scorecard
This scorecard helps prioritize key factors in home searches by assigning weights to criteria like location, price, and condition. Users score potential properties from 1-10 in each category, multiplying by the weight for a total score. This structured approach aids in objective comparisons, decision-making, and negotiation strategies.
-
Fixed vs Tracker? 25-Year vs 15-Year? Your 2026 UK Mortgage Options Explained
In the UK, choosing a mortgage involves understanding various types: fixed-rate offers stable payments, tracker mortgages vary with the Bank of England rate, and discount rates can be unpredictable. You must also consider mortgage terms, with 25-year loans having lower monthly payments versus 15-year loans, which offer faster equity growth. Assess your financial needs and…
-
Why 2026 Is a Standout Year for UK Property Buyers
In 2026, the UK property market shifts favorably for buyers, making homeownership more accessible due to lower interest rates and relaxed lending criteria. With increased inventory and motivated sellers, buyers gain negotiating power and can find properties below market value. It’s an ideal time to act decisively on property investments.
-
The 20 Mortgage Terms Every First-Time Buyer in the UK Must Know
Buying your first home in the UK requires understanding key mortgage terms, such as principal, interest rates, APR, and types of mortgages like fixed-rate and variable-rate. Familiarity with fees, deposit requirements, and legal processes like conveyancing boosts confidence and aids informed decision-making throughout the home-buying journey.
-
How to Avoid ‘Credit Score Killers’
Maintaining a good credit score is crucial for financial health. To avoid pitfalls, make timely payments, keep credit utilization below 30%, limit hard inquiries, retain old accounts, and monitor for errors. By being disciplined and proactive, you can safeguard your score and ensure greater financial opportunities.
-
First Time Buyer Journey- Week One
Learn what to expect from the home-buying timeline between now and April 2026, including deposit requirements, property types, interest rate trends, lending criteria, and why checking your credit and financial baseline early is essential
-
Get Mortgage Ready And Buy Your First Home In 2026!
I will assist you in becoming mortgage ready over the coming weeks. Expect weekly posts with guidance on purchasing your first home in 2026, featuring tips and checklists. Connect with me or subscribe for updates! Em x
-
A Festive Guide to Your Mortgage: Smart Money Moves for the Holiday Season (UK 2025)
December is an ideal time to review mortgages as the festive season offers opportunities to secure better deals before rate changes in 2025. Key actions include checking mortgage end dates, reviewing budgets, exploring remortgage deals, checking credit scores, and avoiding new credits. Preparing now ensures a strong start to the new year.
-
UK Budget 2025 — What It Means for Your Mortgage 🏡
The UK Budget 2025 introduces significant changes affecting the property and mortgage landscape, notably a new mansion tax on high-value homes and increased taxes for landlords. While mortgage rates remain influenced by the economy, gradual house price growth is expected. Buyers and homeowners must plan carefully for affordability and potential tax implications.
Emily's Mortgage Services LTD 