Many types of mortgages are available in today’s mortgage market, and even with rising interest rates, knowing which mortgage process best applies to your needs is essential for getting the right deal, Build Warranty explains
The mortgage process can be daunting, but understanding the basics can help make the process go more smoothly. Structural warranties can help simplify the mortgage process and give the borrower and the lender peace of mind. It is worth considering a structural warranty first if you are considering a mortgage.
Key points to understanding the mortgage process
Your home is your most valuable financial asset, so it is essential to understand the process of getting a mortgage.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a good indication of how much house you can afford and help you narrow your search.
- Work with a reputable Mortgage lender. Speak to several brokers or lenders and look for online reviews. You want to work with someone knowledgeable and trustworthy.
- Research. There are many other options available, so it’s essential to find one that best suits your needs.
- Make sure you have a good credit score. Your credit score will affect the interest rate you are offered, so it’s essential to keep it in good shape and help you get a better interest rate.
- Understand the fees involved. There are various fees associated with getting a mortgage, so be sure to ask about them upfront, before considering taking out a mortgage with that lender.
- It is a mandatory requirement that all properties built or had refurbishment work carried out within 10 years have a residential structural warranty. There are two types of UK Finance & lender-approved indemnity schemes, Professional Consultant Certificates and Latent Defect Insurance. This will protect your home in case of any structural damage that may occur during the first 10 years after construction was signed off by Building Control.
A residential structural warranty is a great way to protect your home and have peace of mind when buying a new home.
We can provide retrospective cover if the property you are purchasing doesn’t have a structural warranty.
Please contact us if you have any queries or specific requirements and we will be happy to help.
Comparing different types of mortgages
The type of mortgage you choose will affect the interest you pay, how much you borrow, and the length of your repayment term.
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Residential mortgages
Repayment mortgages
With a repayment mortgage, you pay back the interest and capital each month so that the mortgage will be fully paid off at the end of the mortgage term. This is the most common type of mortgage in the UK.
Interest-only mortgages
With an interest-only mortgage, you only pay monthly interest. Your monthly repayments will be lower than with a repayment mortgage, but you will still be at the end of the mortgage term.
Combined mortgages
A combined mortgage lets you make either interest-only or repayment payments each month. Typically, this product type is used by those on a low income.
First-Time buyer mortgages
First-time buyer mortgages often have lower rates, higher loan-to-value, and government incentives in some cases, such as the Help to Buy scheme.
Re-mortgage
A re-mortgage is when you take out a new mortgage on a property you own. There are several reasons, such as getting a better mortgage rate, releasing equity from your home, or consolidating your debts.
2. Commercial mortgages
These types of mortgages are usually taken out by businesses looking to purchase or refinance commercial property. The loan is secured against the property’s value, meaning the lender can take possession of the property if the company fails to repay the loan.
As well as deciding which type of mortgage is right for you, it’s also essential to understand the different interest rates available. The two main types of interest rates are fixed and variable.
Types of mortgage interest rates
Capped
A capped mortgage is a type of variable mortgage where the interest rate is capped at a certain level, meaning it can never go above this.
Cap & Collar
A cap and collar mortgage offer protection against rising interest rates, with a cap on the maximum interest rate that can be charged and a collar which protects against rates falling below a certain level.
Discount
A discount mortgage is a type of mortgage where the interest rate is discounted for a set period.
Euro
A Euro mortgage is a mortgage which is denominated in Euros instead of Sterling, and the interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan.
Equity-Linked (Shared Appreciation Mortgages)
An equity-linked mortgage is a mortgage where the interest rate is linked to the performance of a specific asset or index.
Fixed Interest
A fixed-interest mortgage has a set interest rate for a period, usually 2-5 years.
Flexible
A flexible mortgage is a type of mortgage that allows you to make overpayments, underpayments, or take payment holidays.
Offset
With an offset mortgage, your savings are offset against your mortgage balance, which can reduce the amount of interest you pay.
Tracker
Tracker rates are variable and usually linked to the Bank of England base rate.
Other specialised mortgage products available on the market
Self-Build Mortgage
This mortgage is a type of finance that allows you to borrow money specifically to build your home. This can include buying a plot of land and the construction costs associated with building the property.
Equity Release
An equity release allows you to borrow money against the value of your home if you are over 55. There are several different types of equity release products available. Available products on the market include Lifetime Mortgages, Roll Up Mortgages, Home Reversions, and Income plans.
Build Warranty is an established structural warranty provider that offers unrivalled customer support and efficient service. Competitive pricing offered by Build Warranty ensures it stays at the forefront of its sector by guaranteeing value to its customers at all times.
For further advice or to obtain a quote, call Build Warranty’s experts on 0800 5200155 or complete a simple online form.
Further information is also available at www.buildwarranty.co.uk.
