FAQs

It depends on your income, spending, and credit history — but don’t worry, we’ll crunch the numbers for you. Our calculators can give you a quick idea, and our advisors will guide you on what’s realistic for your life.

Usually proof of ID, income (like payslips or tax returns if you’re self-employed), and bank statements. Nothing scary — we’ll give you a clear checklist so you know exactly what you will need.

Every case is different, but most mortgages take a few weeks to a couple of months. We’ll keep you updated at every step, so you’re never left wondering what’s going on.

Not at all. Life happens — missed payments, bumps in the road. We work with lenders across the market, including those who understand real life isn’t always perfect.

We’re upfront about fees. Sometimes we charge a broker fee, sometimes the lender pays us commission — it depends on the product. You’ll always know before you commit.

There can be valuation fees, legal fees, and sometimes arrangement fees from the lender. We’ll explain each one clearly so there are no surprises.

It's a mortgage designed for people buying their very first home. Lenders sometimes offer special rates or incentives to help you take that first step.

Most lenders ask for at least 5–10% of the property price. The bigger your deposit, the better the rates you'll usually get — but we'll help you find a deal that works even if your deposit is small.

Yes — there are schemes that can boost your deposit or reduce stamp duty. We'll explain what's available and check if you qualify.

Yes, you can. You'll just need to show a bit more evidence of your income (like tax returns). We'll guide you through it so it's not overwhelming.

A fixed rate means your repayments stay the same for an agreed period. A variable rate can go up or down, depending on interest rates. We'll help you decide which fits your plans.

That depends on your priorities. Shorter fixes give more flexibility, longer fixes give peace of mind. We'll talk through the pros and cons so you can choose what feels right.

Yes, often you can. If your current deal is ending or interest rates have changed, switching could save you money. We'll search the market for better options.

Some mortgages let you "port" your deal to a new home. Others may charge an early repayment fee. We'll check your options before you make a move.

They're used to buy or refinance property for your business — like offices, shops, or warehouses.

Yes, typically you do. Commercial mortgages are linked to the business, not just you personally.

Usually around 25–40% of the property value. It depends on the lender and your circumstances.

Most are not regulated in the same way residential mortgages are. We'll explain clearly which rules apply to your case.

It's a mortgage for buying property you plan to rent out. Lenders look at the expected rental income as well as your finances.

In most cases, yes. Many lenders want you to be a homeowner first — but we'll let you know if you meet the criteria.

Lenders usually want the rent to cover 125–145% of the mortgage payments. We'll help you work it out before you apply.

Most aren't regulated, but there are exceptions. We'll be clear about which rules apply to you.

A personal loan is unsecured — meaning it's based on your income and credit history. A homeowner loan (second charge) is secured against your property, so you can often borrow larger amounts or at better rates.

Not always. Personal loans don't require you to own a property, but homeowner and second charge loans do. Bridging and business loans also usually require property as security.

It depends on the type of loan. Personal loans can sometimes be approved in days, bridging loans in as little as a week, while commercial or homeowner loans may take longer depending on complexity.

A full application may leave a mark on your credit file, but we can often run initial checks without affecting your score. We'll explain exactly how it works before you apply.

Not all. Personal and homeowner loans are usually regulated, but most commercial and some bridging loans are not. Don't worry — we'll be clear about what's regulated and what isn't.

Sometimes. It depends on the loan type, amount, and complexity. You'll always know upfront if a fee applies, and your advisor will explain the details before you commit.

It's a short-term loan that "bridges" a gap — like buying a new property before selling your current one, or securing a place at auction.

Very quickly — sometimes in a few days, often within a couple of weeks. That's why bridging loans are popular when timing is critical.

Closed bridging loans have a fixed repayment date (for example, when you know your house sale will complete). Open bridging loans are more flexible if timings are uncertain.

Yes, many people do. Auction purchases often require completion within 28 days, and bridging finance is designed to move at that pace.

Yes — bridging loans are secured against property or assets. That might be the property you're selling, buying, or another you already own.

Almost anything — from fixing a boiler to funding a holiday, covering emergencies, or consolidating debt. We'll help you choose a loan that fits your circumstances.

Not necessarily. A better credit score can get you better rates, but there are options even if your history isn't spotless.

It depends on your income, credit history, and the lender. Personal loans usually range from a few thousand up to around £25,000.

Typically between 1 and 7 years, depending on the lender and loan size. We'll guide you to repayment terms that work for your budget.

Banks can only offer their own products. We search the whole market to find the deal that fits you best — saving you time and effort.

It's a loan secured against your property alongside your existing mortgage. Think of it as a top-up, without changing your current deal.

If your current mortgage rate is great, or if remortgaging would mean high fees, a second charge loan can be a smarter alternative.

Yes — both are very common uses. We'll help you weigh the pros and cons so it's the right move for you.

Yes — because your home is already security for your main mortgage. Don't worry, we'll handle that part for you.

No — your main mortgage stays as it is. The second charge simply sits alongside it.

Life insurance runs for a set term (say 20 or 25 years) and pays out if something happens during that time. Whole of life insurance, as the name suggests, lasts as long as you do — guaranteed payout whenever it's needed.

You might not think so now, but life is unpredictable. Taking out cover while you're younger and healthier usually means lower premiums — and it's peace of mind for the people who matter most.

Yes — many people do. For example, life insurance and income protection can work side by side. We'll help you avoid overlaps and make sure you're covered where it counts.

It depends on your income, debts, and who relies on you financially. We'll walk you through the numbers so you get cover that feels right — not more, not less.

Yes, you can usually adjust or cancel cover if your circumstances change. We'll explain any restrictions upfront so there are no surprises.

Not all — most personal insurances are, but some specialist or business policies may not be. We'll always tell you which rules apply so you know where you stand.

It pays out a lump sum if you pass away during the policy term, giving your family financial support when they need it most.

It depends on your age, health, lifestyle, and the amount of cover you want. We'll find options that work for your budget.

Not usually — though inheritance tax may apply if the payout forms part of your estate. We'll guide you through how to set up your policy to avoid this where possible.

Yes — though it may affect cost or availability. We work with the whole market, including insurers who specialise in medical conditions.

It depends on the policy, but typically includes cancer, heart attack, and stroke. Some policies cover dozens more conditions.

Critical illness pays out a lump sum if you're diagnosed with a covered illness. Income protection pays a monthly income if you can't work due to illness or injury.

Critical illness pays a one-off lump sum. If you'd prefer regular income, income protection may suit you better.

Yes — but it might affect the cost or conditions. We'll help you find insurers who understand your situation.

If you can't work due to illness or injury, it pays a percentage of your income each month until you recover, retire, or reach the policy end.

It depends on the policy — some pay for a fixed term (like 2 years), others until retirement. We'll help you choose what fits your needs.

No — it's designed for illness or injury, not redundancy. But there are other products we can discuss if redundancy cover is important to you.

Yes — in fact, it's often more important since there's no sick pay. We'll help you prove income and set up cover that works for you.

Buildings insurance protects the structure (walls, roof, fittings). Contents insurance covers everything inside — your furniture, electronics, clothes, and more.

If you own your home, yes — most lenders require buildings insurance. Contents is optional but recommended. Renters usually only need contents cover.

Sometimes, but not always. It depends on the policy. We'll make sure you know what's included before you sign up.

Basic cover usually applies, but specialist equipment or business stock might need extra cover. We'll guide you through the details.

It can cover tenant-related risks like loss of rent, accidental or malicious damage, and liability if someone gets injured on your property.

It's not legally required, but most lenders and letting agents insist on it. It's strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Yes — many policies include or offer this as an option. We'll help you choose the right level of protection.

Yes — especially if you're letting a furnished property. We'll make sure the right things are covered.

It's a tax-efficient way for a business to provide life cover for employees or directors. The business pays the premiums, but the benefit goes to the individual's family.

Employers for their staff, or company directors for themselves. It's a great option if you don't have a group scheme.

Yes — premiums are usually tax-deductible, and payouts are tax-free for beneficiaries.

Group life covers lots of employees under one policy. Relevant life is for individuals, making it ideal for smaller businesses.

It's cover that lasts your entire life, guaranteeing a payout whenever it's needed.

Often people who want to leave an inheritance, cover funeral costs, or guarantee protection for loved ones.

Yes — because it guarantees a payout, premiums are higher. But for many, the peace of mind is worth it.

Yes — many people use it to offset inheritance tax and protect family wealth.