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For most people, buying a home will involve taking out a mortgage but this isn’t as easy as it used to be. Mortgage lenders are increasingly restricting their lending and tightening their criteria which can make things difficult.
However, there are lots of things you can do to help you improve your chances of securing a mortgage and it is worth putting these in place well in advance:
If lenders see evidence of online gambling, you will be refused a mortgage. Shopping habits and entertainment expenditure can also go against you, so it is wise to start thinking about how you spend your money at least three months before you apply for a mortgage. Try not to rely on your overdraft and avoid pay day lending loans as some lenders will decline your application if you’ve had one in the last year.
Set up payment reminders, direct debits and standing orders so payments aren’t forgotten. All missed payments count against your credit report so it’s really important you pay your bills on time.
Contact any creditors to set up a payment plan for any missed payment deadlines. By addressing the problem quickly it can ease the negative effects of the late payments or outstanding balances.
Reduce your total debt rather than shifting balances to different accounts. Your credit report also takes account of the total amount of your debt as well as balances on bank accounts.
There are many websites that allow you to check your credit record, and many offer you a free trial (such as Experian or Equifax) or are free to use (such as Clearscore or Noddle). Dispute any errors and notify the credit reporting agency of wrong or outdated information, this can dramatically affect your score so get errors removed and old information updated.
Credit card balances are best kept low, even if you pay the balance of in full each month. This is because your credit report doesn’t take account of carried over or new balances, just the balance due.
Contact any creditors to set up a payment plan for any missed payment deadlines. By addressing the problem quickly it can ease the negative effects of the late payments or outstanding balances.
Reduce your total debt rather than shifting balances to different accounts. Your credit report also takes account of the total amount of your debt as well as balances on bank accounts.
If you’re not on the electoral roll you need to get on it by registering for free with your local electoral office. Mortgage lenders will use this to do identity checks.
A County Court Judgement against you will mean your credit score will be extremely low so getting a mortgage will be highly unlikely.
Before looking at a home to purchase, speak to a mortgage advisor or your bank to discuss getting a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP). This is a statement from a mortgage lender that states what they are prepared to lend you. This shows agents and sellers you are a serious buyer and can put you a step ahead of other buyers. However, it does mean you will need a full credit check so don’t do too many of these as it can lower your credit rating.
