Tips on... getting a mortgage.

• Each bank and building society has different criteria to calculate how much you can borrow. So if one bank doesn't offer you a big enough mortgage, don't panic. Another lender could come up trumps.
  
  
• A mortgage broker can usually negotiate a better deal in less time for you, because they know how the system works. Choose a mortgage broker with at least 10 lenders on their books.
  
  
• It is really important to get approval in principle before you do anything else. Not only does it remove the guess work and establish a price range for you, it also effectively makes you a 'cash buyer' which could be the difference between having your offer on a property accepted or rejected.
  
  
• Fixed rates make budgeting easier because your repayment isn't effected by interest rate changes, during the fixed rate period. The down side is that fixed rates don't offer the same flexibility as tracker rates, so if you are looking for some flexibility too, ask if you can split the mortgages in two - with part on a fixed rate and part on a tracker rate.
  
  
• If you are considering a fixed rate, remember that you will be charged a penalty if you pay off the mortgage during the fixed rate period.
  
  
• If you choose a fixed rate, find out what happens at the end of the fixed rate period. Ask if you can switch to a tracker rate at the end of the period, or will you automatically be put on a (more expensive) variable rate?
  
  
• Thankfully, most mortgage lenders have now waived upfront mortgage fees for first time buyers and owner occupiers. It's still important to ask if you are liable for any fees. In particular, ask if you will be charged an indemnity bond fee and if so, how much will it cost?
  
  
• Find out what flexible options, such as payment holidays, are on offer.
  
  
• If you are on a tight budget you could consider either an interest only mortgage or a deffered start mortgage, to keep your payments low at the start of the mortgage (when you have to pay for new furniture, legal fees etc).
  
  
• You can claim a free PDF report on how to find the best mortgage, along with a step by step home buyers guide and a money off voucher by signing up for our free property market email updates. Simply fill in your first name and email address in the box on the right hand column and will email you them free of charge.

Click here to arrange Approval in Principle or call 1890 44 66 44 to speak to a mortgage consultant.

• Legal Fees Calculator - don't get caught out by hidden fees - work out ALL your costs
  
  
• Buying a Home - Step by Step
  
• Mortgage Application Process
  
• Rates & Costs
• Do I Need a deposit?
  
• Which type of mortgage is best for me?
• How Much Can I Borrow?
• Would I Be Approved?
• Approval in Principle - Why it's so Important
• Online Mortgage Application

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