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Mortgage FAQs

  • Who or what is Mortgages by Umair?
    Mortgages by Umair is the hassle-free way to get a mortgage. I help first-time buyers, existing homeowners and investors save time and money when securing a mortgage. Gone are the days of complex, outdated mortgage application processes. At Mortgages by Umair, I embrace a modern, online approach to make your experience seamless and stress-free. From cutting out unnecessary paperwork to reducing waiting times, I streamline every step of the process to get you approved faster.
  • What is a mortgage broker and do I need one?
    A mortgage broker is a professional who helps you find the best mortgage deal by comparing lenders, managing paperwork, and guiding you through your mortgage. They save you time, provide expert advice, and navigate complex requirements. A broker can simplify the process and help secure better rates than going directly to lenders.
  • Benefits of using a mortgage broker
    Advice and Guidance: A mortgage broker knows the mortgage products available, the different lenders and each of their unique criteria. They’re valuable in recommending the right product and helping you make an informed decision. More Mortgage Products: Because brokers have access to lots of different mortgage products and deals, they’ll save you time and effort in researching which lender or product to choose, including some you might not be aware of. Managing Your Application: Your broker will help guide you through the paperwork and manage your application, streamlining the process and making sure your documents are submitted accurately and on time. Most importantly, they’ll advise you on how to improve your chances of being accepted. Advice Tailored to You: They’ll also take into consideration your future goals when recommending a mortgage and will only recommend suitable products. They can also provide you with multiple options from lenders so you can more easily compare interest rates, terms, fees, and features. Convenience: Instead of booking in-person appointments I'll be able to arrange everything safely and securely online. And when it's time to remortgage I’ll save you time and find you the best mortgage available for you on the market again.
  • What lenders can you or do you work with?
    I’m proud to operate as a whole of market broker, meaning I have access to a comprehensive range of lenders. This includes major high street banks and building societies such as Halifax, NatWest, HSBC, Barclays, and others you might recognise. In addition to these well-known names, I also work with private lending institutions and specialist lenders for more unique or niche circumstances. These lenders are ideal for situations that may fall outside the scope of traditional mortgage providers.
  • Do mortgage brokers get better rates?
    If you apply directly with a bank, you can only apply for their available deals, whereas brokers can access a much larger market for you. So you might be missing out on a more suitable mortgage or product that you might not know about. Sometimes lenders give preferential rates to brokers, rather than going direct. And some deals that initially look more expensive could work out cheaper, with no fees and cashback options. I’ll also be able to help you secure cheaper products if they become available, which you might not be aware of or able to do directly. So get in touch and I’ll help you make the best decision when choosing your product.
  • What is a mortgage?
    A mortgage is essentially a loan secured against a property . It’s how most people in the UK buy their homes. There are various types of mortgages and each is suited to different needs, such as whether you're a first-time buyer or building a portfolio.
  • How do mortgages work in the UK?
    In the UK, you’ll need to put down a deposit, usually at least 5% of the property’s value. The bank or mortgage lender then provides the rest as a loan, which you’ll repay monthly, with interest. Mortgages can run from 5 to 40 years. You can choose between fixed, tracker, or variable rate mortgages. Fixed rates offer fixed interest and monthly payments giving you predictability and stability, while tracker rates move with the Bank of England’s base rate — ideal for those comfortable with market fluctuations or who would like flexibility due to potential future circumstances.
  • What are the current mortgage interest rates?
    Interest rates fluctuate with major economic events and other market conditions like the Bank of England’s base rate. Rates can vary massively depending on your financial circumstances. I can provide you with mortgage quotes for free so you can have a full picture of what your mortgage will cost.
  • How much can I borrow for a mortgage?
    The amount you can borrow depends on your income, spending habits, and credit score. Mortgage lenders also consider your monthly repayments and if you’ll still be able to afford your monthly payments if interest rates rise in the future. I use advanced affordability calculators and can give you an accurate and tailored figure.
  • What is the difference between fixed and variable rate mortgages?
    Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability, locking in your monthly payments for a set term, usually 2 to 10 years. Variable rates, such as tracker or discounted variable, fluctuate with market conditions. Each type of rate has upsides and downsides so it’s a good idea to run through your options with your mortgage broker to make sure you’re choosing the right type of rate for you.
  • How do I apply for a mortgage?
    The first step is getting your documents ready, like payslips, bank statements, and proof of ID. These show lenders that you’re financially prepared, but don’t worry—I'll help you gather and organise everything. Once we’ve got the basics sorted, I’ll arrange your mortgage in principle, which shows sellers and agents that you’re ready to move forward. From there, I’ll handle your full mortgage application, managing the entire process for you, from document checks and mortgage valuations to liaising with solicitors. My job is to take care of the details so you don’t have to, and get your mortgage approved quickly and without hassle.
  • What is a Mortgage in Principle?
    A Mortgage in Principle (MIP) — also called an Agreement in Principle (AIP) — is a provisional confirmation from a lender that shows how much they’re willing to lend you based on some basic checks. It’s not a full mortgage offer, but it’s a great tool for serious buyers. Having a Mortgage in Principle gives you a clear idea of your budget and shows sellers and estate agents that you’re financially prepared and in a strong position to make an offer.
  • How does my credit score affect my mortgage application?
    Your credit score is a big factor in your mortgage application. It tells lenders how reliable you are when it comes to managing money and paying off debts. A strong credit score not only makes it easier to get approved but also gives you access to better deals and lower interest rates. If your credit score isn’t perfect — you can still get a mortgage. Your options might be a bit more limited but that’s where having the right support makes all the difference. I can help you understand your credit profile, make improvements where needed, and guide you to lenders who are more flexible where you'll have a higher chance of approval.
  • How much deposit do I need for a mortgage?
    The deposit you need for a mortgage depends on the type of property and mortgage you’re applying for, as well as your personal financial circumstances. For residential mortgages, most lenders typically require a deposit of at least 5-10% of the property’s value. If you’re applying for a buy-to-let mortgage, the deposit requirement is usually higher, with most lenders asking for at least 25% of the property’s value. I’ll work with you to assess how much deposit you’ll need based on the type of property you’re buying and the kind of mortgage you’re after.
  • What are mortgage fees and costs?
    When taking out a mortgage, you’ll encounter costs like arrangement fees, valuation fees, which involve arranging and being approved for your mortgage. Legal fees and potentially Stamp Duty if your property exceeds certain thresholds for both purchases and remortgages. If you already have a mortgage you might also need to think about early repayment charges and building insurance if you own a house. Budgeting for these upfront costs is crucial. With the right guidance, you’ll receive a clear breakdown and avoid unexpected expenses.
  • Can I get a mortgage if I’m self-employed?
    Yes! If you’re self-employed you’ll need to have at least one full year of accounts. If you have two years or more then most lenders will be able to consider your-self-employed income. I’ll be able to help you find out how much you can borrow and present you in the best possible way to lenders, increasing your chances for approval.
  • What is a repayment mortgage?
    With a repayment mortgage, you’ll pay off both the mortgage amount and interest every month — paying off the mortgage in full by the end of your mortgage term. The length of your mortgage can help reduce your mortgage payments, by choosing a longer term. Or you can choose a shorter term if you want to pay the mortgage off sooner.
  • What is an interest-only mortgage?
    Interest-only mortgages pay just the interest during the mortgage term. The capital or amount borrowed is repaid using another method such as selling the property at the end of the mortgage term. They’re a popular option to free up cash flow for other investments, but they're much higher risk because the mortgage balance stays the same and isn't paid off without an intentional repayment method.
  • What happens if I miss a mortgage payment?
    Missing payments can lead to penalties, harm your credit score or in worst cases your property or home can be repossessed. It’s important to make sure you don’t miss any payments. If you’re struggling or need help, I can help get you back on track with actionable advice to address issues quickly to avoid long-term impacts.
  • Can I pay off my mortgage early?
    Yes, you can pay off your mortgage early, but you’ll need to check your lender’s terms for penalties. Many mortgages allow overpayments without penalties. But early repayment charges (ERCs) might still apply, especially during fixed-rate periods.
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No fee is payable for mortgages with a value above £300,000.

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A fee of £249 is payable on application for mortgages with a value between £200,000 and £300,000.

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A fee of £495 is payable on application for mortgages with a value below £200,000.

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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

 

Some buy to let and investment mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.​

Terms of Business

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Mortgages by Umair is a trading style of UMARI Finance Group Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is entered on the FCA register (www.fca.org.uk) under reference 994960. Registered office: 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX. Registered in England and Wales Number: 14439156.

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