Everything you need for your property journey
Get access to the biggest marketplace of property professionals in the UK.
mortgages & loans
Welcome to the UK’s largest marketplace for mortgage deals, secured loans, bridging loans, and commercial loans.
insurance SOLUTIONS
Insurance Solutions for every stage of life! Whether you’re securing your family’s future or safeguarding your
new home.
financial planning
Get some extra brain power with the help of a specialist Will & Estate Planner or IFA for a pension review. Find your specialist here
The importance of choosing the right advisor
The right advisor will be your guide through the homebuying or refinancing journey and you should consider the following when making your selection.
Location
In today’s marketplace, there is no longer the need for in person meetings and the whole mortgage application can be processed over the phone / Zoom / Teams and documents shared over email or via WhatsApp or Advisor Portal.
If you really feel that you would benefit from a sit down appointment then you can use our location filters to find an advisor local to you.
Fee versus free
While advisors typically receive commission from the lender following successful completion of your mortgage, loan or insurance policy, there are significant costs and time involved in providing professional advice and managing the process. In the event that the sale does not go through, the advisor does not get paid.
If you are 100% confident that you have basic income, very straight forward needs and won’t require significant support then a fee free advisor may be for you. Just remember a typical experienced advisor will only ever represent a small % of the total cost.
Move Smarter with Expert Advisors
- If a sale doesn’t proceed, advisors typically don’t receive payment
- Consider a fee-free advisor if you have straightforward needs and basic income
- An experienced advisor usually represents a small percentage of overall moving costs
- Advisors earn commissions after completing your mortgage or insurance
- Their work involves costs for advice and paperwork management.
Non-English speaking
If you or a partner are not UK Nationals or do not speak or have a good comprehension of English, you may benefit from dealing with an Advisor who speaks your native dialect.Use the filters when searching for an advisor to find someone who speaks your chosen language. Don’t be afraid to ask or change your advisor!
Finding the right fit is important
If after your initial contact with your advisor, you don’t feel that they are the right match for you, don’t worry about looking again. The fit between advisor and client is important and just like dating, if for any reason you don’t feel like they are someone that you can get on with over the next few months then move on and find someone with who you feel comfortable.
Mortgage & Remortgage
All residential mortgages are regulated by the FCA and as such, your authorised and qualified advisor will search and advise you from over 10,000 products available.
First time buyers
Purchasing a property for the first time can be an extremely intimidating experience and it’s easy to feel totally out of your comfort zone.
Working with the right advisor who can explain the process, costs, budgeting and guiding you through can alleviate the stress and can be priceless.
In addition to the support, you may be entitled to additional support such as bonus on savings such as Help to Buy ISA, reduced Stamp Duty or exclusive products specifically for first time buyers.
Self-employed & Contractors
Purchasing a property for the first time can be an extremely intimidating experience and it’s easy to feel totally out of your comfort zone.
Working with the right advisor who can explain the process, costs, budgeting and guiding you through can alleviate the stress and can be priceless.
In addition to the support, you may be entitled to additional support such as bonus on savings such as Help to Buy ISA, reduced Stamp Duty or exclusive products specifically for first time buyers.
Right to Buy
Purchasing a property for the first time can be an extremely intimidating experience and it’s easy to feel totally out of your comfort zone.
Working with the right advisor who can explain the process, costs, budgeting and guiding you through can alleviate the stress and can be priceless.
In addition to the support, you may be entitled to additional support such as bonus on savings such as Help to Buy ISA, reduced Stamp Duty or exclusive products specifically for first time buyers.
Shared Ownership
Shared ownership in the UK is a scheme designed to help people get on the property ladder when they cannot afford to buy a home outright. It allows individuals to purchase a percentage of a property, typically between 25% and 75%, and pay rent on the remaining share, which is owned by a housing association or another provider.
Over time, buyers have the option to “staircase,” meaning they can increase their ownership by purchasing additional shares, up to 100%. This model makes homeownership more accessible by lowering the initial financial barrier, though it still comes with ongoing rent and maintenance costs.
Buy to Let
Buy-to-let in the UK refers to the practice of purchasing a property with the intention of renting it out to tenants, rather than living in it. Investors typically seek to generate income through rent payments while hoping the property’s value will appreciate over time. To finance a buy-to-let property, individuals usually take out a buy-to-let mortgage, which tends to have different terms compared to standard residential mortgages, including higher interest rates and larger deposit requirements.
The rent collected from tenants can cover the mortgage payments and other expenses, and any excess can serve as profit. However, landlords must also consider potential risks, such as fluctuating property values, tenant issues, and changes in rental market conditions.
Let to Buy
Let-to-buy in the UK is a strategy where homeowners purchase a new property to live in while renting out their existing home. This is often used by individuals who want to move to a new area or upgrade to a larger property but can’t afford to sell their current home outright. With a let-to-buy arrangement, the homeowner typically remortgages their current property to release equity, which is then used to fund the deposit on the new home. The existing property is then rented out, and the rental income can help cover the mortgage payments on both properties.
Let-to-buy offers flexibility, but it requires careful financial planning to manage the additional responsibilities of being a landlord while maintaining the mortgage commitments.
Debt Consolidation
Debt consolidation with a remortgage in the UK involves combining multiple debts, such as credit cards, loans, and overdrafts, into a single, more manageable monthly payment by remortgaging your home. This process typically works by taking out a new mortgage that is larger than your existing one, using the extra funds to pay off your debts. The new mortgage may have a lower interest rate compared to the rates on your other debts, which can help reduce overall monthly payments or the total cost of borrowing. However, it’s important to remember that consolidating debt through a remortgage means securing the debt against your property, so failing to keep up with payments could risk your home.
The process requires careful consideration, as while it can simplify debt management and potentially save money, it also extends the term of your mortgage and may result in higher overall interest payments in the long run.
Adverse Credit
In the UK, applicants with adverse credit may still be able to secure a mortgage, though they typically face higher interest rates and stricter criteria. There are specialist “bad credit” mortgages available from lenders who cater to individuals with poor credit histories, such as missed payments, defaults, or even bankruptcy. These mortgages often require a larger deposit and may involve higher fees. Lenders assess the applicant’s current financial situation, including income and affordability, rather than solely relying on past credit issues.
While options are more limited, working with a mortgage broker who specializes in adverse credit can help find the best deal for those looking to buy or remortgage with poor credit.
Bridging Loan
Used to bridge the gap when conventional finance is not suitable. Bridging finance can be used to purchase via property auction, for development projects and even cash flow funding for business projects.
Regulated & Non-Regulated Bridging
In the UK, the key difference between regulated and non-regulated bridging finance lies in the type of borrower and the legal protections available. Regulated bridging finance applies when the borrower is an individual or a sole trader and the property being used as security is their primary residence. This type of loan is subject to strict regulatory oversight by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring consumer protection, including clear lending terms and affordability checks. On the other hand, non-regulated bridging finance is typically used for business purposes or investment properties and is not subject to the same level of regulatory control.
As a result, non-regulated bridging loans may offer more flexibility in terms and criteria but lack the same consumer protections.
When a bridge is suitable?
A bridging loan is more suitable than a mortgage when you need short-term financing to bridge a gap, typically for property-related transactions. It is ideal in situations such as buying a new property before selling your current one, completing urgent property renovations, or securing a property quickly at an auction.
Bridging loans offer fast access to funds, often within a few days, and are designed to be repaid quickly, typically within 12 months. Unlike a mortgage, which is a long-term financial product, bridging loans are more flexible and can be used to cover short-term financial needs where a mortgage would be too slow or unsuitable.
Development Bridging
Bridging finance for property development is commonly used to secure short-term funding for buying, refurbishing, or converting properties before securing long-term financing or selling the developed property. Developers often use bridging loans to cover the costs of purchasing a property quickly, paying for construction or renovation work, and even to meet cash flow needs during the development process.
Since bridging loans can be approved quickly and offer flexible terms, they allow developers to seize time-sensitive opportunities, such as auction purchases or deals requiring fast completion, while they work on securing a longer-term mortgage or investor funding once the project is completed or near completion.
Non-Habitable Property Purchase
Bridging finance for uninhabitable property is often used by investors or developers who need to purchase and renovate a property that is not currently liveable. These properties may require significant repairs, such as structural work, or are in a state of disrepair that prevents them from being used as a home or rented out immediately.
Bridging loans are ideal for this purpose as they provide fast access to funds, allowing the buyer to quickly acquire the property and begin work. Once the property is renovated and becomes habitable, the borrower can refinance it with a traditional mortgage or sell it to repay the bridging loan.
Auction Purchase
Bridging finance is commonly used for properties purchased at auction, where the buyer often needs to pay for the property in full within a short timeframe, typically 28 days. Since traditional mortgages can take longer to process, a bridging loan provides quick access to the necessary funds, enabling the buyer to complete the purchase without delay.
Once the property is acquired, the buyer can either renovate and sell it, or secure long-term financing like a mortgage to repay the bridging loan. This type of finance is ideal for auction purchases where time is a critical factor.
Later life & Equity release
Specialist mortgage products for borrowers aged over 55. Weather you want to make monthly repayments or not, one of our specialists will be happy to look at your options.
Retirement Interest Only
A retirement interest-only mortgage (RIO) is a type of mortgage designed for older homeowners, typically over the age of 55, who wish to borrow money against their property in retirement. With a RIO mortgage, borrowers only pay the interest on the loan each month, rather than repaying the capital. The loan is repaid in full when the borrower passes away or moves into long-term care, at which point the property is sold.
This type of mortgage can be useful for those who want to access equity in their home while keeping monthly payments lower, but it does not reduce the overall loan balance during the term of the mortgage.
Equity Release
An equity release mortgage allows homeowners, typically aged 55 or older, to unlock the value of their property without having to sell or move out. The two main types are lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans. With a lifetime mortgage, you borrow against the value of your home and don’t need to make repayments until you die or move into care. In a home reversion plan, you sell part or all of your property to a provider in exchange for a lump sum or regular payments.
Pros:
Provides access to cash for retirement without needing to sell the home.
No monthly repayments (in lifetime mortgages).
Can improve quality of life by accessing the value tied up in your home.
Cons:
Reduces the inheritance you can leave to heirs.
Interest on lifetime mortgages can compound, increasing the loan balance over time.
May affect eligibility for means-tested benefits.
Can be more expensive than other borrowing options in the long term.
If you are looking for Equity Release, select this when searching for an Advisor as these types of mortgage require additional qualifications and may require a specialist in this particular area.
Retirement Interest Only
A retirement interest-only mortgage (RIO) is a type of mortgage designed for older homeowners, typically over the age of 55, who wish to borrow money against their property in retirement. With a RIO mortgage, borrowers only pay the interest on the loan each month, rather than repaying the capital. The loan is repaid in full when the borrower passes away or moves into long-term care, at which point the property is sold.
This type of mortgage can be useful for those who want to access equity in their home while keeping monthly payments lower, but it does not reduce the overall loan balance during the term of the mortgage.
Commercial finance
Where a remortgage may not be suitable due to reasons such as early settlement charges, a second charge (secured loan) may be the solution.
Commercial Mortgage
A commercial mortgage is a loan used by businesses to purchase, refinance, or develop commercial property, such as office buildings, retail spaces, or industrial properties. Unlike residential mortgages, commercial mortgages are specifically tailored to business needs and are typically secured against the property being financed. These loans tend to have higher interest rates than residential mortgages and usually require a larger deposit (typically 25% to 40% of the property value).
The terms of the loan, including repayment schedules and interest rates, vary depending on the lender, the business’s financial health, and the type of property. Commercial mortgages offer businesses the opportunity to own property and use it as an asset, rather than renting, which can contribute to long-term growth and stability.
Asset Finance
Asset finance is a type of lending that allows businesses to borrow money to purchase or lease equipment, machinery, vehicles, or other assets needed for operations. Rather than paying upfront for the full cost, the business can spread the cost over time, making it more manageable. Common types of asset finance include hire purchase (where the business eventually owns the asset after making payments) and leasing (where the business rents the asset for a period).
This type of financing helps businesses preserve cash flow, gain access to essential equipment, and keep their operations running smoothly without large initial outlays. It can be particularly useful for small to medium-sized businesses that may not have the capital to purchase assets outright.
VAT Finance
VAT finance refers to financial solutions designed to help businesses manage the cash flow impact of VAT (Value Added Tax) payments and claims. It is particularly useful for businesses that are VAT-registered and need to bridge the gap between paying VAT on purchases and receiving VAT refunds from HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs). VAT finance can come in the form of VAT loans or VAT factoring, where a lender provides short-term funding to cover VAT liabilities.
This allows businesses to avoid cash flow issues, ensuring they can meet their VAT obligations on time without affecting their working capital. It is especially helpful for businesses with irregular cash flow or large VAT bills, providing the liquidity needed to maintain operations without delay.
Unsecured Business Finance
Unsecured business finance refers to loans or credit facilities provided to businesses without requiring any collateral or assets to back the borrowing. This type of financing is typically based on the business’s creditworthiness, financial health, and ability to repay, rather than physical assets like property or equipment. Common forms of unsecured business finance include business loans, lines of credit, and merchant cash advances.
While unsecured loans tend to have higher interest rates due to the increased risk for lenders, they offer the benefit of not putting the business’s assets at risk. This makes them an attractive option for businesses looking for quick access to capital without the need for collateral.
SIPP / SASS Finance
SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) and SASS (Small Self-Administered Scheme) are types of pension plans that allow individuals or businesses to manage their own retirement savings with greater control over their investments.
A SIPP is a flexible pension scheme where the individual can choose and manage their own investments, including stocks, bonds, property, and other assets. It offers more investment options than traditional pensions and is suitable for those with a higher level of investment knowledge.
A SASS, typically used by company directors or business owners, is a type of occupational pension scheme that allows greater control over investments, including commercial property and company shares. It can also be used to lend money to the business.
Both SIPP and SASS finance offer tax advantages, but they require careful management to comply with pension regulations. They are ideal for individuals or businesses looking for more control and flexibility in their retirement planning.
Invoice Finance & Discounting
Invoice finance and invoice discounting are types of short-term funding that help businesses improve cash flow by leveraging their outstanding invoices.
Invoice finance involves selling or borrowing against unpaid invoices to receive immediate cash from a lender. The lender typically advances a percentage of the invoice value (usually 80-90%) and then collects payment from the customer. Once the invoice is paid, the business receives the remaining balance, minus any fees.
Invoice discounting, on the other hand, allows businesses to borrow against their outstanding invoices while retaining control over the collection process. The business continues to manage its customer relationships, while the lender provides funding based on the value of the invoices. The main difference is that with discounting, the business remains responsible for chasing payment, whereas with invoice finance, the lender may take over the collection process.
Both options help businesses bridge gaps in cash flow without waiting for customers to pay their invoices.
INSURANCE SOLUTIONS
When looking to purchase a new home or refinance your current property, it’s imperative to consider ‘what if?’ and how you would manage in the event that you weren’t able to work, or even worse, weren’t here anymore and how your family would manage financially. Speak to a protection specialist who can advise and put together a personalised protection plan.
Life Insurance
A life insurance policy designed to protect a mortgage, often referred to as “mortgage life insurance” or “decreasing term life insurance,” is a policy that ensures your mortgage balance is paid off in the event of your death.
The coverage amount decreases over time in line with your remaining mortgage debt, providing financial security to your family or beneficiaries so they are not left with the burden of the mortgage repayments.
It’s typically set to match the term and value of the mortgage, offering peace of mind that the home can be retained without financial strain.
Serious or Critical Illness
A critical illness insurance policy designed to protect a mortgage provides financial support if you are diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. If you’re unable to work due to the illness, the policy pays out a lump sum, which can be used to cover mortgage repayments and other living expenses.
This ensures that you can focus on recovery without the added worry of losing your home. The coverage amount is typically chosen to match your mortgage balance, offering peace of mind during a difficult time.
Private Medical Insurance
Private Medical Insurance (PMI) provides individuals with quicker access to medical treatment and care outside of the public National Health Service (NHS).
With PMI, policyholders can choose their healthcare providers, avoid long waiting times for procedures, and receive treatment in private hospitals. Key benefits include faster diagnosis and treatment, access to specialist care, and a broader range of treatments and services.
Additionally, many policies cover treatments that may not be readily available on the NHS, such as alternative therapies or specialist drugs. PMI offers peace of mind by ensuring timely and personalised care.
Income Protection
An income protection insurance policy to protect your mortgage payments is designed to replace a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.
The policy pays out a regular monthly benefit, which can be used to cover your mortgage and other living expenses during the period you’re off work. Payments usually start after a specified waiting period, such as 30 or 60 days, and continue until you’re able to return to work or the policy term ends.
This ensures that your mortgage remains manageable, even if your income is temporarily disrupted.
Family Income Benefit
A family income benefit insurance policy provides ongoing financial support to your family if you pass away, helping to protect mortgage payments and other living expenses. Instead of a lump sum payout, the policy pays a regular monthly benefit for a set period, which can be used to cover the mortgage and daily costs.
This ensures that your loved ones aren’t financially burdened by your death, helping them maintain their lifestyle and stay in the family home. The coverage amount is usually chosen to reflect the mortgage repayments and the family’s needs.
Buildings & Content
A buildings and contents insurance policy offers comprehensive protection for your home and belongings.
The buildings insurance covers the structure of your property, including walls, roof, and fixtures, against risks like fire, flooding, or vandalism.
The contents insurance protects your personal possessions inside the home, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing, from damage, theft, or loss.
Many policies combine both types of coverage, providing financial security for both the physical property and its contents, ensuring you’re covered in case of unexpected events.
FINANCIAL Planning
Our specialist advisors give you security and peace of mind, ensuring your estate or pension is managed correctly and in the most tax efficient manner.
Wills & Estate Planning
Wills and estate planning are essential aspects of preparing for the distribution of assets after death, ensuring that a person’s wishes are honored and their loved ones are cared for. Estate planning involves organizing one’s financial, legal, and health matters in advance, and can include creating a will, setting up trusts, making decisions about guardianship, and managing tax liabilities.
To ensure your will and estate plan are legally sound and reflect your intentions, it is important to consult with a solicitor who specializes in this area of law. A qualified solicitor will typically hold a Law degree and have expertise in probate and succession law. Additionally, they may be members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a professional body that certifies expertise in estate planning and administration.
Engaging a solicitor with the right qualifications and experience can help avoid disputes, reduce tax burdens, and ensure your estate is managed efficiently.
Pension Review
A pension review involves assessing the current status and performance of your pension plans to ensure they align with your retirement goals and financial needs. To conduct a thorough pension review, you’ll need to gather key information, including details about your existing pension schemes, such as workplace pensions, personal pensions, and any pension pots from previous employers. This includes the value of the pension funds, investment choices, contribution amounts, and projected retirement income. You’ll also need to consider your retirement goals, including the age at which you plan to retire, your desired retirement lifestyle, and any potential changes to your income or expenses in the future.
To ensure the review is comprehensive, it’s best to consult a qualified financial adviser who specializes in pensions. They should hold appropriate certifications, such as the Chartered Financial Planner designation or qualifications from the Personal Finance Society (PFS). A good adviser will analyze your pension options, review investment strategies, assess the tax implications, and provide tailored advice on how to optimize your retirement income.
This may also involve making adjustments to your pension contributions, switching investment options, or consolidating pensions from different schemes. The goal of a pension review is to give you confidence that your retirement planning is on track and will meet your financial needs when you stop working.