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Applying for a mortgage

Getting ready for your first mortgage

Getting organised before you apply

It's a good idea to get things in order before you apply for a mortgage and find your new home. There are a few things you can do to make the process smoother.

    • 1

    Are you on the electoral roll?

    If your name isn't on there, you’ll find it more difficult to get credit. Go to Your Vote Matters to find out how to register.

    • 2

    Review your credit file

    If you think information on your file is wrong, ask your bank to correct it or challenge it with the credit reference agency.  Errors on your credit file can lead to your application being rejected. You can find more information about improving your credit file on the MoneyHelper website.

    • 3

    Get your paperwork ready

    When you apply for a mortgage, lenders will look at your income and outgoings. To prove your income you’ll usually need to show pay slips and bank statements from the last 3 months. If you’re self-employed, you'll need copies of your tax returns and business accounts, all prepared by an accountant.

    • 4

    Make regular card payments

    Make sure you avoid missing card payments or paying late by setting up direct debits. Too much credit could have a negative effect so make sure you cancel any unused cards.

    • 5

    Be prepared for the future

    Are you thinking of starting a family sometime soon? Would you still be able to afford your mortgage payments if your income changed?

    Think about how any future changes in income or interest rates could affect your ability to make your mortgage payments.

Three key steps to your mortgage

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Compare mortgage rates

Use our mortgage calculator to compare rates and monthly repayments and see what works for you.

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Before you apply for a mortgage

Get an Agreement in Principle to see if you can borrow the amount that you need. It won't affect your credit score or credit file.

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Check out your mortgage options

Once you have an Agreement in Principle showing you how much you could borrow, you can review the mortgage options available to you.