Couple 3 were first time buyers looking for mortgage advice as they were confused where to start. They had a 5% deposit which was being gifted to them by their parents but this could possibly be increased to 10% gifted deposit. They wanted to know what their affordability was and if a fixed rate was the better option for them, as this is what their friend had.

We invited them in for a face to face meeting and completed a factfind to establish their current situation, this included asking them about their employment, income and expenditure. We then went on to explain to them, in simple, easy to understand terms, the different options they had for their mortgage and how to protect themselves and their home, we asked them about their preferences and budget. We then advised them on the most suitable mortgage type for them, and how much they could potentially borrow. We reassured them we would be there every step of the way to assist them and answer any questions they may have. We provided them with solicitors quotes and discussed protecting the mortgage debt with life and critical illness insurance, and how income protection could be of benefit, as one of them only received statutory sick pay from their employer.

We provided them with a mortgage illustration to show how the mortgage would work and they were happy with this, we informed them the next step was to apply for a decision in principle with the mortgage lender, this would put them in a good position when viewing property as some estate agents were asking for a Mortgage in Principle prior to viewing and they could act quickly once they had found their dream property, as properties were selling very fast.

We applied for the decision in principle with the lender and they were approved, and they started viewing properties. We kept in touch with them, answering any questions they had along the way. They came back to us 2 weeks later, they’d put an offer on a property which had been accepted. We advised the next step was to submit the full mortgage application.

Once the application was submitted, we advised them of the timeframes for any updates from the lender, what to expect next regarding the valuation and solicitors. We liaised with the lender answering any questions they had and the mortgage was offered shortly after the valuation was completed a week later,

We then contacted the solicitor on a weekly basis, to move things along as quickly and smoothly as possible and set up their life and critical illness insurance, ensuring the mortgage debt was protected and the income protection to cover their salary if they were off work due to an accident or illness.

Buildings insurance is required by the lender, we discussed this with them and provided them with a quote for buildings and contents insurance. This was set up ready for completion.

They were so pleased once they’d moved in, and thanked us for making the whole process so straight forward.

Since then they have referred us to 3 of their friends who have also contacted us to see how we can help them with a mortgage.