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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 often negotiate a better deal in less time for you, because they know how the system works.
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 variable 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 variable 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.
It's still important to ask your lender 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). (Interest only mortgages & deffered start mortgages may be difficult to arrange in current market conditions)