Category: Blogs

17 Feb
Today’s Mortgage Options

An Overview of Today’s Mortgage Options for First-Time Buyers, Homeowners and Property Investors

Buying your first home, reviewing an existing mortgage, or expanding a property portfolio can feel confusing given the range of lenders, products, and criteria available today. In 2026, the UK mortgage market offers significant choice — from high-street lending designed for straightforward cases to specialist funding supporting more complex circumstances such as self-employment, credit blips, […]

13 Feb
Moving in

What Is a Decision in Principle – And Why Do You Need One?

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably heard the term Decision in Principle (DIP). It might sound technical, but it’s actually one of the simplest — and smartest — first steps in the mortgage process. Before you start booking viewings or making offers, here’s what you need to know. What Is a Decision […]

05 Feb
Landlords

What the Renters’ Rights Act Means for Landlords & Renters in England

On 1 May 2026, one of the most significant overhauls of the private rented sector in decades takes effect. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is designed to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants — giving renters greater security and transparency, while setting clearer rules for landlords to follow. It’s a landmark shift with wide-ranging […]

19 Jan
Self employed

Self-Employed and Looking for a Mortgage? What You Need to Know

Being self-employed offers flexibility and independence, but when it comes to applying for a mortgage, the process can feel less straightforward. Many self-employed borrowers worry that irregular income or complex accounts will limit their options. The reality is that self-employed mortgages are very achievable — provided lenders understand your income properly. At Impact Specialist Finance, […]

03 Dec
Factfind

Be Mortgage Ready: Complete Your Fact Find with Confidence

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a home mover, getting “mortgage ready” is one of the most important parts of your property journey. With lenders applying increasing scrutiny and criteria becoming more complex, working with an experienced, whole-of-market broker can make all the difference. At Impact Specialist Finance, we guide you through the full process […]

19 Nov
Crypto

Cryptocurrency and Mortgages: What Buyers Need to Know

Cryptocurrency has become one of the most talked-about financial topics in recent years. From Bitcoin to a wide range of digital assets, many people hold crypto they might hope to use towards a property deposit. However, turning crypto into a mortgage-ready deposit isn’t straightforward. UK lenders are still navigating this new and rapidly evolving market. […]

28 Oct
Bridging

Why Use Short-Term Finance or Bridging Loans?

Short-term finance, more commonly known as a bridging loan, was originally designed to help homeowners “bridge the gap” between buying a new property and selling their existing one. It provided a quick funding solution when timing didn’t line up – for example, when a buyer needed to complete before their own sale went through. Over […]

15 Sep
Remortgage

Fixed-Rate Mortgage Ending – What Are Your Next Steps?

Many homeowners choose a fixed-rate mortgage for peace of mind, knowing their repayments won’t change for a set period. But when your fixed term comes to an end, it can feel like a pivotal moment. Suddenly, your mortgage may revert to your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR), which is often higher. Acting early and understanding […]

12 Sep
Credit score myths

7 Common Credit Score Myths Every Mortgage Seeker Should Know

When applying for a mortgage, your credit score can play a big role in what products are available and at what rates. But with so much misinformation out there, it’s easy to fall into traps that could harm your chances of securing the best deal. Let’s clear up some of the most common credit score […]

02 Sep
Renovations

Buying to Renovate? Here’s How Specialist Finance Can Help

For many people, the dream home isn’t found ready-made. It might be a dated house with huge potential, a fixer-upper bought at auction, or a property that needs a complete overhaul. Renovating or refurbishing can be a smart way to create the home you want, while also adding value. But here’s the challenge: standard mortgages […]