Getting a mortgage | a quick guide to getting a mortgage
Getting a mortgage | a quick guide to getting a mortgageYour friends use sofeminine, discover what they have read
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Budgeting.At least six months before you want to buy, you need to work out what you can afford and start saving for getting a mortgage.Making regular payments into a savings account looks good to a mortgage broker or bank, as it shows you can stick to regular payments. Think about how much you could afford to pay each month in a mortgage and, most importantly, never overstretch yourself. A spokesperson from the Council of Mortgage Lenders said: “People who are looking to buy their first home at the moment need to have saved a good sized deposit to get a mortgage. Although products with small deposits are available, the best rates will be found with larger deposits, and on average first-time buyers are currently putting down 20%.” How do I prepare for getting a mortgage?
Should I use a mortgage broker?Mortgage brokers are different to banks. They offer independent advice for getting a mortgage to buyers, and can approach banks on your behalf to negotiate a good deal. This won't affect your credit rating.They often have access to deals you may not be able to get on your own. Make sure they're "whole of the market" which means they speak to as many banks and lenders as possible (note some big banks don't deal with brokers so find out who - then you can do your own research). They often charge for their services, so be clear on the fees before you agree to anything. London & Country and FirstMortgage are worth checking out as they are fee free. You could also try John Charcoal, the UK's leading independent mortgage and remortgage adviser. The two main types of mortgagesFixed-rate mortgage: You pay a fixed rate of interest for a set time.Tracker: The interest goes up or down in line with the Bank of England base rate. There are numerous other types; speak to your mortgage adviser on the best one for you. How much of a deposit will I need?This depends on the property price and your salary, so do your sums. Generally you can only borrow four to four and a half times your income.Ray Boulger, Senior Technical Manager at independent mortgage adviser John Charcol, said: “There are a few mortgages available with a 5% deposit but to get the best rates one needs at least 25%. Also the smaller the deposit the greater the risk of being rejected. Shared ownership schemes from housing associations may also be worth considering for anyone struggling to find a deposit.” Stamp DutyStamp duty. This is a fee worked out based on a percentage of the property value.Under £125,000 there is no stamp duty (£150,000 in disadvantaged areas) £125,000 - £250,000 = 1% Over £250,000 = 3% Over £500,000 = 4% Over £1,000,000 = 5% Over £2,000,000 = 7% (Correct as of 21 March 2012) Other costs to consider
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Work and Money Editor 24/02/2012 18:42:00 | ||||||||||
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