Taking out a mortgage is likely to be the biggest financial commitment you’ll ever make, and so you'll want to find the best deal you can. The good news is there’s plenty you can do to improve your chances of getting your mortgage application accepted – follow our top 10 tips to help you get the mortgage you want
If you’re thinking about how to get a mortgage, you should be aware of the factors that affect your eligibility. These include: your credit score, length of time in current job, current debts, whether you’re self-employed and of course the size of your deposit.
Follow our top 10 tips below to find out how to get the mortgage you want.
1. Your credit score matters
Before applying for a mortgage, get a copy of your credit reportwhich is held by credit reference agencies such as Experian or Equifax. This will allow you to see what lenders see when they review your application.
If your credit rating isn’t looking that great, there are lots of simple things you can do which can give your score a boost. For example, check you are on the electoral roll and close down credit card accounts which you no longer use.
2. The starting point is your own sums
Sit down and work out your budget before applying for a mortgage. You will need to be sure you can borrow enough to cover the purchase of the property and that you’ll have enough spare to cover all the associated costs and fees.
Monthly mortgage repayments will depend on how much you want to borrow (and over how long) and the interest rate charged.
3. You’ll be better off in the same job
Lisa Brown of Acres Financial Services said; “ Most lenders will want to see that you’ve been with your employer for some time before they’ll give you a mortgage, so if you’re thinking of switching jobs, it’s a good idea to hang on until you’ve got your mortgage in place. Many lenders like to see you have been in your existing job for at least three to six months.”
4. Debts don’t help
If you’re submitting a mortgage application, the last thing any prospective lender is going to want to see is that you owe a load of cash on credit cards or you’ve got outstanding loans.
Claire Allen of Acres Financial Services said " Before you apply for a mortgage, try to reduce any debts you have – this will help demonstrate that you manage your money responsibly. It will also mean you will potentially be able to borrow more when it comes to a lender’s affordability calculations. "
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