Tag: Mortgage Basics
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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.
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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.
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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…
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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.
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Optimising Your Debt So Lenders Love You
Navigating mortgage applications requires careful debt management. Key factors include maintaining a low Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio, prioritizing high-interest debts, and optimizing financial documentation. Achieving a DTI under 35–40% enhances borrowing power. Understanding lender perspectives on various debts can substantially improve mortgage eligibility and interest rates.
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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.
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How to Save a House Deposit in 2026 Without Feeling Miserable
Saving for a house deposit in the UK can be manageable and even enjoyable with the right strategies. Typically, deposits range from 5% to 20% of the property value. Utilizing savings accounts like Cash ISAs and LISAs can enhance your savings. It’s vital to set realistic goals and automate savings for success.
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Master Your Credit Score for a 2026 Mortgage Approval
Credit scores are crucial for lenders to evaluate repayment reliability. A strong score secures favorable loan terms, while a low score signals high risk. Regularly checking credit reports, correcting errors, and maintaining low credit utilization can improve scores. Understanding lenders’ criteria enables strategic financial planning for major investments by 2026.
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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.
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Why Is My First Mortgage Payment Higher Than Expected?
Wondering why your first mortgage payment is higher than expected? Learn the reasons behind it and how to prepare with expert advice from Emily’s Mortgage Services.
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