Esther Barnes

Saving for a deposit while paying rent can feel like you’re trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it. For many aspiring homeowners, the dream of owning your first property feels further away than ever, especially when you see the average deposit hitting a staggering £61,090 [1]. I’ve […]

You might think that getting a mortgage is all about you and your finances, but from a lender’s perspective, it’s just as much about the house you want to buy. As a mortgage adviser since 2005, I’ve seen countless first-time buyers focus intensely on their deposit and income, only to

Did you know that a staggering 82% of recent first-time buyers have regrets about their purchase, often related to unexpected costs and choices they wish they’d made differently? [5] As a mortgage broker who has been helping people find their way onto the property ladder since 2005, I’ve seen first

Still paying your landlord’s mortgage instead of your own? With escalating rents and a cost of living squeeze, saving for a mortgage deposit can feel nearly impossible. The good news is that if you’ve been reliably paying rent for the past 12 months and have a good credit score, you

Your credit rating is more than just a number. It’s a reflection of your financial health and a key factor lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. A good credit score can give you access to the best mortgage products and interest rates, making it easier to achieve personal

As the UK government unveiled its highly anticipated Autumn Budget for 2024, first-time home buyers across the country have been left with a mix of emotions. While some of the changes announced offer glimmers of hope, others pose significant challenges to their homeownership dreams. Understanding these changes is crucial for

As the UK’s new Labour government prepares to unveil its first Budget statement on October 30th, first-time buyers are understandably anxious about how the upcoming changes could impact their ability to purchase a property. With the Chancellor warning of a “painful” budget aimed at addressing a £22 billion deficit, it’s

If you’re thinking of buying your first home, or moving to another property, it’s often difficult to know where to start. There are so many variables involved in the buying process that it’s important to be prepared and mortgage ready before viewing potential properties. Understanding Your Mortgage Options A mortgage

A Decision in Principle (DIP), also known as an Agreement in Principle (AIP) or Mortgage in Principle (MIP), is an informal decision made by a mortgage lender confirming the maximum they are willing to lend based on specific initial checks. These include: Affordability, such as how much you can borrow

Although mortgage interest rates have started to fall, house prices remained “resilient” in 2023 according to Kim Kinnaird, director at Halifax Mortgages. According to the Halifax house price index, UK house prices rose by +0.5% in November, making the average now £283,615. This is welcome news for existing homeowners and