Hilltop Mortgage Solutions – Your Questions Answered

Re-mortgage FAQs

1. When is the best time to re-mortgage?
Usually 3–6 months before your current mortgage deal ends. This gives us time to secure you a better rate before you roll onto your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR).

2. What is a re-mortgage?
A remortgage is when you switch your mortgage to a new deal, either with your current lender (a product transfer) or a new one, to save money or find a deal that suits your needs better.

3. Can I re-mortgage with my current lender?
Yes, that’s called a product transfer. It’s often quicker, but we’ll compare it with other lenders to make sure it’s the best option for you.

4. Do I need to pay fees to re-mortgage?
It depends. Some lenders offer fee-free deals, while others have arrangement, valuation, or legal fees. We’ll help you weigh up the overall cost, not just the interest rate.

5. How long does a remortgage take?
Typically 4–8 weeks, but product transfers can be completed much faster.

6. Can I re-mortgage to consolidate debt?
Yes, sometimes you can combine debts into your mortgage to reduce monthly payments — but we’ll guide you through the pros and cons to ensure it’s right for you.

First-Time Buyer FAQs

7. How much deposit do I need as a first-time buyer?
Most lenders require at least 5–10% of the property price, but the bigger your deposit, the better the rate you may get. There are some lenders that can offer a mortgage with 0% deposit -subject to status.

8. What help is available for first-time buyers?
We can guide you through schemes like First Homes, Shared Ownership, or mortgage deals with low deposits.

9. How do I know how much I can borrow?
We’ll assess your income, outgoings, and credit history, then match you with lenders who suit your situation.

10. Do I need to have a perfect credit score?
No — there are lenders who work with all types of credit histories. We’ll help you find the right fit.

Home Mover FAQs

11. Can I take my current mortgage with me when I move?
Yes — this is called “porting” your mortgage. We’ll check if it’s the best choice or if a new deal would save you more.

12. Do I need a bigger deposit to move home?
Not always, but it can help. We’ll explain your options based on your equity and property price.

13. How quickly can I arrange a mortgage for a new home?
We can start your application as soon as you’ve had an offer accepted — sometimes even sooner for an agreement in principle.

Buy-to-Let Investor FAQs

14. How much deposit do I need for a buy-to-let mortgage?
Usually around 25%, though some lenders may accept less.

15. How do lenders assess a buy-to-let mortgage?
They look at expected rental income and your personal circumstances.

16. Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes — some lenders welcome new landlords, especially if you have a good deposit and income.

Adverse Credit FAQs

17. Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?
Yes — specialist lenders can consider applicants with CCJs, defaults, or missed payments.

18. How far back do lenders check credit history?
Most look at the past 6 years, but minor issues can have less impact over time.

19. Will my interest rate be higher with bad credit?
It can be, but we’ll shop around to find you the most competitive deal possible.

General Mortgage FAQs

20. How long does a mortgage offer last?
Typically 3–6 months, giving you time to complete your purchase or re-mortgage.

21. What documents will I need?
Usually ID, proof of income, bank statements, and proof of deposit.

22. Can you help with life insurance and mortgage protection?
Yes — we can help you protect your home and family with the right insurance cover.

23. Why should I use Hilltop Mortgage Solutions instead of going direct?
Because we’re a family-run business that puts customer service first. We have access to exclusive deals you won’t find on the high street.