Coming to the end of the mortgage product term. What next?
We’re seeing some issues for those coming up to the end of their product promotional rate period, especially where the lender is not offering them anything attractive to stay. Lenders want to lend, but in some cases are not able to, or may choose not to, even to existing customers. The simple reason being that the customers may not pass the same lenders new criteria. Reasons can include, original borrowing on a multiple of income, age, small equity levels in property. Lending rules have changed dramatically over the last few years and more stringent measures are in place, as well as tougher reporting to the regulator. Lenders have to be sure the customer can afford their mortgage for a number of years ahead and stress test against possible rate rises. Seek professional advice if you are concerned or are looking for an alternative lender as some might be considered to be hiding behind the rules!
Remortgaging away from your current lender should not be looked upon negatively. Many lenders will cover the cost of surveying your property, as well as covering the legal fees in transferring your mortgage from one lender to another. But most of all, you should think of number one as this could save you money on your monthly budgets and, subject to terms and conditions, this can only be a good thing.
Products continue to increase and one of the fastest growth markets seems to be in the Ex-Pat sector. A British Ex-Pat in good employment abroad is favoured by a growing number of lenders who are willing to provide a mortgage to help them obtain a Buy to Let property in UK . The rules are tight but there are lenders who will advance up to 75% of the property value. Incomes usually need to be from a recognised and preferably multi-national business abroad and in a region upwards of £40000 sterling equivalent. A couple of lenders will also allow Ex-Pats to own a residential property in UK and where their family, usually off-spring, will reside pending their return to UK .