Five questions worth asking before your fixed rate ends
A short checklist to work through in the months before your current deal reaches its end date.
Help to Lend · 2026-07-14
Knowledge Hub
Guides written to be useful, not to sell.
Plain explanations of the decisions, documents and timescales involved in arranging a mortgage.
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From the blog
Preparing your accounts before a self employed application
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Help to Lend · 2026-06-02
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Help to Lend · 2026-05-08
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
General Mortgage Questions
- Do you charge a fee for advice?
- [CLIENT TO PROVIDE FEE DISCLOSURE. Any fee, when it becomes payable and whether commission is also received must be stated by the firm.]
- How long does a mortgage application take?
- Timescales depend on the lender, the property and the legal work involved, so we avoid quoting a fixed period and instead keep you updated at each stage.
- What is an agreement in principle?
- An initial indication from a lender based on the information provided. It is not a mortgage offer and is subject to full assessment.
- Will applying affect my credit score?
- A full application involves a credit search which is recorded on your file. We aim to avoid unnecessary searches by preparing properly first.
First Time Buyers
- How much deposit will I need?
- Minimum deposits vary between lenders and products. We will give you a realistic figure for your circumstances before you start viewing.
- Can I use a gifted deposit?
- Many lenders accept gifts from close family with written confirmation that the money is non-repayable. Criteria differ between lenders.
- What other costs should I budget for?
- Valuation and survey fees, legal fees, searches, Stamp Duty where applicable and moving costs.
Remortgages
- When should I start?
- Many clients begin three to six months before their current deal ends.
- Can I remortgage early?
- You can, but an early repayment charge may apply. We include that in the comparison.
- Can I change my term?
- Often yes, subject to affordability and the lender's maximum term and age policies.
Self Employed
- How many years of accounts do I need?
- This varies between lenders. Some will consider one full year where other aspects of the case are strong.
- Do lenders use profit or salary and dividends?
- Both approaches exist. We match your figures to a lender whose assessment method suits them.
Buy to Let
- How is the amount I can borrow decided?
- Primarily by the rental income the property is expected to achieve, assessed against the lender's stress rate.
- Should I use a limited company?
- This is a tax question for a qualified tax adviser. We can arrange finance for either structure.
Protection
- Do I have to take protection through you?
- No. Protection is always your choice. We will explain the options and the risks of proceeding without cover.
- Can I change cover later?
- Policies can usually be reviewed, though new cover is underwritten on your health at that time.
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