October 2021 saw the lowest level of mortgage application approvals since the middle of 2020, primarily due to the end of the stamp duty holiday, according to figures released by the Bank of England.

BOE data shows a total of 67,200 homebuyer mortgages approved in the month of October, a drop from 71.851 and a significant decrease from 104,547 reported in November last year.

The report also indicated a sharp fall in amounts advanced to buyers during the month, showing a net mortgage lending figure of £1.6 billion, a drop from £9.3 billion recorded in September.

The fall follows months of frenzied property buying, with figures for the year up to September for property sales reaching £500 billion, largely due to the stamp duty holiday. The tax break led to a rush for buyers to complete before the deadline date at the end of September. The pandemic also changed the priorities of buyers, with many seeking larger properties.

“October’s decrease was driven by borrowing brought forward to September to take advantage of stamp duty land tax relief before it was completely tapered off,” the Bank of England commented.

October saw an increase in re-mortgaging activity as lenders competed for clients by offering ultra-competitive deals. The month saw a total of 41,642 remortgages approved, up from 32,745 recorded in the same time period in 2020.

The head of residential research at the property firm Savills, Lucian Cook, stated: “There is no great surprise to see a fall in the number of mortgage approvals in October, given the distorting effect of the end of the stamp duty holiday in September.”

His data showed that £513 billion was spent in the UK property market in the year up to September. This is the first time this figure has exceeded the £500 billion mark and is £170 billion higher than pre-pandemic levels.

“That reflected the unusual coming together of three key factors: the so-called race for space as people looked to trade up the housing ladder, the cheap cost of mortgage finance, and the added impetus of a stamp duty holiday,” he commented.

“Activity in the more expensive price brackets continues to hold up strongly, so we expect to see higher than normal spend in 2022, though it’s difficult to see how spending next year can match the extraordinary levels of lateness across the market as a whole without such a mix of strong drivers.”

Housing analyst and Chief Executive of Twin dig, Anthony Codling, commented that he thought the BOE’s figures for mortgage approvals were “comforting” and indicated that the property market was moving back to normal levels following the end of the stamp duty holiday.

“At 67,199, mortgage approvals in October were 2.7% ahead of their 10-year average, suggesting that the housing market is a long way away from the cliff edge,” he said.

Purchasing a property with a short lease can present both challenges and opportunities. Although short-lease properties may come with a lower initial cost, navigating the complexities of obtaining a mortgage for such properties can be daunting.

What is a short lease?

A short lease refers to a property with a leasehold tenure that has a remaining duration of less than 80 years. The property’s value may be affected by the lease term decreasing; this could make the property less attractive to any prospective buyers. Understanding the lease length is crucial when you are assessing the long-term viability of the investment.

The impact of short leases on mortgage approval

Acquiring a mortgage on a property with a short lease can be challenging due to the heightened risks that are associated with diminishing lease terms. Lenders are often a lot more cautious when considering such properties. Their mortgage terms may also differ from properties with longer leases. We recommend that you be prepared for potentially higher interest rates or a larger deposit requirement.

Extending the lease

Extending the lease is a viable option for homeowners looking to secure a mortgage on a property with a short lease. A lease extension provides stability and increases the property’s value. However, the cost and process of extending the lease can vary depending on factors such as the property’s location and the remaining lease term. Seeking legal advice is advisable to understand the implications and expenses associated with lease extensions.

Enfranchisement and collective enfranchisement:

In some cases, leaseholders have the right to enfranchise or collectively enfranchise, allowing them to purchase the freehold or collectively acquire a share of it. Owning the property freehold can remove lease restrictions and provide more control over it. However, these processes can be complex and require cooperation from multiple leaseholders.

Lenders’ criteria and specialist lenders

Due to the unique risks of mortgages on short-lease properties, mainstream lenders may impose stringent criteria before they approve the mortgage. On the other hand, there are some specialist lenders out there who are more familiar with these types of properties and may offer tailored mortgage solutions.

Understanding the property’s investment potential

Although there are some challenges, short-lease properties can still present investment opportunities for the right buyers. Factors such as location, potential for lease extension, and the market’s demand for leasehold properties should be carefully considered. A well-researched investment strategy can lead to a profitable venture.

The preferred choice of many looking to increase their monetary value over time, recent years have seen a growing boom within the buy-to-let market. These mortgage products give opportunities to property investors who want to secure properties to be rented out for income. You must completely understand the various types of products available before looking at securing this kind of mortgage loan. Let us explore the various options below:

Fixed-rate mortgages

Due to their stability and predictability, a fixed-rate product is often a loan type that is commonly used and wanted by BTL investors. Financing via this type of mortgage means that your given interest rate remains unchanged for a fixed period of time; normally, this tends to be between two and five years, which will be agreed upon with your lender or bank. With fixed-rate products, the key benefit that stands out is that they protect you from hazardous and expensive interest rate fluctuations, thus allowing you to budget your finances more accordingly, knowing exactly what you have to play with after your payments. Please be considerate that fixed-rate mortgages do normally have a higher interest rate when compared to other options.

Tracker mortgages

Sometimes referred to as variable-rate mortgages, a tracker mortgage is directly linked to the specific base rate set by the Bank of England. The rate on these mortgages fluctuates in line with amendments to the base rate itself. To explain: if the base rate increases by 0.25%, your mortgage rate will also increase by the same percentage figure. Likewise, if the base rate decreases by, say, 0.25%, then your repayment rate will decrease as well to reflect that change in the base rate. Tracker mortgages can offer attractive rates initially, but they carry an element of uncertainty due to potential interest rate hikes.

Discounted rate mortgages

Discounted rate mortgages provide borrowers with a reduction on the lender’s standard variable rate (SVR) for a specific period, typically between two and three years. These mortgages offer a discount, often expressed as a percentage below the SVR. While discounted rates may seem appealing, it’s important to consider the lender’s SVR as well, as it can vary significantly. This means that while the discounted rate may be low, the SVR itself might be higher compared to other lenders, impacting the overall cost.

Offset mortgages

An offset product allows you, as the borrower, to link both or just one of your savings and current accounts to your mortgage; this then ‘offsets’ the interest charged on the mortgage balance. If you happen to have a mortgage with a balance to repay of £200,000, you hold savings of £50,000, which you link to it; this means you will only pay interest on the net balance (in this example, that would be an amount of £150,000). Offset mortgages can be a tax-efficient option, as the interest earned on your savings is not subject to tax. However, they often come with higher interest rates and fees.

Interest-only mortgages

With this type of loan, borrowers are only asked to pay interest on the loan each month, with the principal amount remaining unchanged, i.e., the outstanding mortgage balance itself. When your mortgage term has ended, you must, at that time, repay the entire loan amount in full. As your payment is significantly lower each month, this can prove very attractive, particularly for investors or those who do not want to immediately compromise their cash flows. Be sure that you have a plan in mind for clearing the balance at the end of the loan term.

Assess all your financial circumstances, risk tolerance, and investment objectives before even considering if this is the right kind of loan. Each of the aforementioned products has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. A specialist whole-of-market broker like UK Property Finance can provide invaluable guidance tailored to your specific needs.

To sum up, there are many types of buy-to-let mortgages open to you, and it is crucial that, prior to getting into the property investment market, you understand these and what your actual options are. Our advice at UK Property Finance is to carefully consider your options and seek advice when needed. With the right guidance, there is no reason why this venture should not be the foundation of your future success and growth.

If you are embarking on the interesting journey of purchasing your first property, it’s vital to approach it with a keen eye on the long-term financial implications. Getting an excellent, viable loan fee is an essential factor that can considerably affect your cash balance and capability for future refinancing opportunities. In this piece, we aim to discover a few insider pointers and hints that will help you unearth the best mortgage deal.

Thorough research and comparison 

Your first step towards finding the ultimate mortgage rate is to conduct comprehensive research to gain a deep understanding of the current mortgage market. Dive into reputable financial websites, consult mortgage brokers, and explore loan comparison platforms to gather valuable information about interest rates, terms, and conditions offered by a variety of lenders. Take note of offerings from both traditional banks and specialised mortgage lenders to develop a comprehensive overview.

Evaluating your financial situation 

Before approaching lenders, it’s crucial to conduct an honest evaluation of your financial circumstances. Calculate your income, savings, and existing debts to determine the borrowing capacity that aligns with your comfort level. Lenders scrutinise factors such as your credit score, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio when establishing the interest rate they will offer you. By working on improving these aspects, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing a more favourable mortgage rate.

The credit score game 

Your credit score plays a paramount role in determining the mortgage rate you’re eligible for. Obtain a copy of your credit report from credit reference agencies and meticulously review it for accuracy. Should you identify any errors, promptly notify the relevant agencies to rectify them. Additionally, paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and avoiding new debts in the months leading up to your mortgage application can work wonders in boosting your credit score and increasing your chances of securing a competitive mortgage rate.

Pre-approval advantage 

Submit a mortgage application to a lender, who will review your financial situation and give you pre-approval. Armed with this letter, you showcase yourself as a serious buyer to sellers and can confidently narrow down your property search to homes within your predetermined budget.

Understanding mortgage types 

Familiarise and educate yourself with the many types of mortgages on the market. Each comes with its own pros and cons, and by having a thorough understanding of these options, you can choose a mortgage that better suits your long-term financial goals.

Negotiation skills unleashed

Once you have armed yourself with adequate information and zeroed in on the mortgage type that suits you, it’s time to embark on the negotiation journey. Reach out to multiple lenders and provide them with your financial details. Compare the interest rates, terms, and closing costs offered by each lender. Armed with this knowledge, you can skillfully negotiate better rates or even request lenders to match or surpass the offers provided by their competitors.

Seek expert counsel

Brokers have a wide variety of lenders who can help you find a mortgage that fits your pocket. They can also handle all paperwork and negotiate on your behalf, saving you valuable time and effort.

Securing the ultimate mortgage rate necessitates unwavering dedication to thorough research, astute financial assessment, and effective negotiation skills. By investing time and effort in exploring the market, evaluating your financial standing, and meticulously comparing offers from various lenders, you exponentially increase your chances of securing a mortgage with terms and an interest rate that aligns with your dreams. Always bear in mind that uncovering the best mortgage rate can potentially save you substantial sums over the lifespan of your loan, making this endeavour a truly worthwhile pursuit.

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, offering the potential for both rental income and even long-term capital growth. As a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, understanding the financing of an investment property is crucial. The world of mortgages for investment properties is confusing. Let UK Property Finance help you navigate this complex landscape.

Choosing the right mortgage:

When it comes to financing an investment property, selecting the right mortgage is vital. UK Property Finance provides a range of mortgage options tailored specifically for investment properties. Mortgage products for investment differ from residential ones as they take into account rental income yields, type of property, and investment exit. With UK Property Finance, you can access a diverse selection of mortgage products designed to meet your unique requirements.

Buy-to-let mortgages:

The buy-to-let method enables you to purchase your desired property with the intention of renting it out to generate an immediate return through rental income. Longer term, you may benefit from property value appreciation too. UK Property Finance understands the complexities of the buy-to-let market and can provide expert guidance to help you secure the most suitable mortgage.

Specialist mortgages:

UK Property Finance specialises in offering mortgages for various investment property types, including houses in multiple occupations, multi-unit properties, and commercial properties. These specialist mortgages are tailored to the unique requirements of each property type, taking into account factors such as licencing regulations, rental yields, and property usage. With UK Property Finance, you can access the expertise needed to navigate the intricacies of specialist investment properties and secure the right mortgage for your needs.

Competitive rates and flexible terms:

UK Property Finance understands the importance of competitive rates and flexible terms, and as such, we work with a wide network of lenders to offer you access to a range of mortgage options: Our aim is to find you a mortgage solution that aligns with your financial goals.

Expert advice and support:

Navigating the mortgage market can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to investment properties. That’s where UK property finance excels. At UK Property Finance, our advisers all understand the complexities of investment property financing and can guide you through the process from start to finish.

Streamlined application process:

We make it efficient and hassle-free to secure a mortgage for your investment property. Simply speak to a member of our dedicated mortgage team to get the ball rolling and alleviate unnecessary delays.

In conclusion, securing a mortgage for an investment property is a crucial step in your property investment journey. Whether you’re considering a buy-to-let property, a specialist investment, or a commercial building, UK Property Finance is your trusted partner.

The success of your UK mortgage application as a UK expat depends heavily on your country of residence, as it impacts which lenders will consider your application and the interest rates and fees you will face. High-street banks with international arms may provide options for those living abroad, but each lender’s criteria will differ.

Navigating the process of securing an expat mortgage can be simplified with the guidance of an experienced mortgage broker. However, expat status can present additional administrative issues for lenders, particularly if your earnings are paid in foreign currency. Income from overseas is challenging for lenders to verify, increasing the risk of money laundering, which results in expat mortgages being costly and difficult to obtain.

Although many lenders are geared up to handle expats, the availability of options can vary by country. Countries with high risks or are less typically seen by lenders may have fewer options available.

If you reside within a country that is not listed on the FATF List, Financial Action Task Force, it may be more difficult to have your application for lending approved. Countries that are on the list of the FATF can be found here.

To obtain additional details on how to apply for a mortgage in the UK from a different country and how our expert expat broker team can assist, please choose your location from the list below:

Europe

• Austria
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Guernsey
• Iceland
• Italy
• Ireland
• Isle of Man
• Jersey
• Netherlands
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Turkey

America

• Canada
• USA
• Mexico
• Caribbean

Asia

• Abu Dhabi
• Dubai
• Hong Kong
• India
• Japan
• Singapore
• Thailand

Australasia

• Australia
• New Zealand

Africa

• South Africa

Discover the top UK mortgage deals for expats with UK Property Finance, a fully regulated mortgage broker based in the UK.

We have established relationships with the majority of the major UK mortgage lenders who specialise in expat mortgages. These relationships will allow us to identify and provide you with the best deals and mortgage rates on the market.

Countries we can support Expats

The success of your UK mortgage application as a UK expat depends heavily on your country of residence, as it impacts which lenders will consider your application and the interest rates and fees you will face. High-street banks with international arms may provide options for those living abroad, but each lender’s criteria will differ.

Navigating the process of securing an expat mortgage can be simplified with the guidance of an experienced mortgage broker. However, expat status can present additional administrative issues for lenders, particularly if your earnings are paid in foreign currency. Income from overseas is challenging for lenders to verify, increasing the risk of money laundering, which results in expat mortgages being costly and difficult to obtain.

Although many lenders are geared up to handle expats, the availability of options can vary by country. Countries with high risks or that are less typically seen by lenders may have fewer options available.

If you reside in a country that is not listed on the FATF List or the Financial Action Task Force, it may be more difficult to have your application for lending approved. Countries that are on the FATF list can be found here.

To obtain additional details on how to apply for a mortgage in the UK from a different country and how our expert expat broker team can assist, please choose your location from the list below:

Europe

• Austria
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Guernsey
• Iceland
• Italy
• Ireland
• Isle of Man
• Jersey
• Netherlands
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Turkey

America

• Canada
• USA
• Mexico
• Caribbean

Asia

• Abu Dhabi
• Dubai
• Hong Kong
• India
• Japan
• Singapore
• Thailand

Australasia

• Australia
• New Zealand

Africa

• South Africa

Discover the top UK mortgage deals for expats with UK Property Finance, a fully regulated mortgage broker based in the UK.

We have established relationships with the majority of the major UK mortgage lenders who specialise in expat mortgages. These relationships will allow us to identify and provide you with the best deals and mortgage rates on the market.

Those of you who have applied for a mortgage know it can be a challenging process, and it is easy to make mistakes that can have a negative impact on your financial future. At UK Property Finance, we have found some common mistakes to avoid when it comes to making sure you find the best mortgage rate and terms possible:

Not checking your credit score

Lenders use credit scores to assess your creditworthiness, or how likely you are to repay a loan. A higher credit score generally means a lower interest rate, which can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage. If you are unsure of your credit score, you may well be missing out on the best rates and terms that are available to you! Before you apply for a mortgage, always make sure to check your score and ensure there are no errors. A low score may impact your ability to get the best rates, so always work hard to get the best score possible before applying!

Not shopping around for the best rate

Just like with any other major purchase, it pays to shop around for the best mortgage rate. Don’t settle for the first offer you receive; always compare rates and terms from multiple lenders to find the best deal. Even a small difference in interest rate can add up to thousands of pounds over the life of the loan.

Overlooking disbursement costs

In addition to the mortgage itself, you’ll also be responsible for paying disbursement costs. These can include an online ID fee, a local authority search, a water and drainage search, an environmental search, a land registry fee, and a stamp duty land tax. Make sure you understand exactly what you’ll be paying before you apply for a mortgage loan, and factor those costs into your budget.

Borrowing more than you can afford

It can be tempting to borrow as much as possible to buy your dream home, but taking on too much debt can be a recipe for disaster. Before you apply for a mortgage loan, create a realistic budget and make sure you can afford the monthly payments. Remember that you’ll also be responsible for council tax, insurance, and maintenance costs.

Failing to disclose information

It’s essential to be honest and upfront when applying for a mortgage loan. If you fail to disclose important information, such as your income or debts, you could be committing mortgage fraud. This could result in legal consequences and damage your credit score.

Changing jobs before closing

Lenders want to see stability in your employment history. If you change jobs before your loan is approved, it could raise red flags for lenders and potentially delay or even cancel your loan. If you must change jobs, try to wait until after your loan is approved.

Making major purchases before closing

Before your loan is approved, it’s important to keep your finances stable. Avoid making major purchases, such as buying a new car or taking out a large loan, as this can negatively impact your credit score and debt-to-income ratio. This could result in a higher interest rate or even a denied loan.

Not getting pre-approved

Before you start house hunting, it’s important to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan, otherwise known as a mortgage in principle. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend on a home and will also show sellers that you’re a serious buyer. Without approval in principle, you may miss out on your dream home to someone who is already pre-approved.

To sum up, applying for a mortgage loan can be a complex process, but avoiding these common mistakes can make it easier and more successful. Remember to:

• Check your credit score.
• Shop around for the best rate.
• Factor in legal costs
• Stay within your budget.
• Disclose all information.
• Maintain employment stability.
• Keep your finances stable.
• Get pre-approved

By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of getting the best mortgage rate and terms possible and ensure a smooth home-buying process.