Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it often comes with a lot of questions, particularly around costs.
For first time buyers in Liverpool, understanding whether stamp duty applies can make a significant difference to your budgeting.
In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about stamp duty, how it affects first time buyers, and what specific rules might apply in the Liverpool area.
Stamp duty, officially known as Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) in England, is a tax applied to property purchases above certain price thresholds.
This tax is paid to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) when you buy a residential or commercial property.
The amount depends on the purchase price of the property and specific circumstances, such as whether you are a first time buyer.
Understanding how this applies locally can help you better plan for the costs associated with buying your first home.
For first time buyers in Liverpool, stamp duty can be a significant factor when budgeting for a property purchase.
The good news is that there are specific reliefs in place to make homeownership more accessible for those stepping onto the property ladder.
These reliefs can help reduce or even eliminate the stamp duty payable, depending on the value of the property you’re buying.
Being aware of these allowances ensures you don’t pay more than necessary.
Yes, first time buyers across England, including Liverpool, may benefit from stamp duty relief.
If the property you’re purchasing is valued at £425,000 or less, you won’t pay any stamp duty on the first £425,000. For properties priced between £425,001 and £625,000, reduced rates may still apply.
This exemption is available only if you’ve never owned a property before, so it’s essential to check your eligibility.
Stamp duty is calculated as a percentage of the property price and is based on defined bands.
For first time buyers in Liverpool, the amount varies depending on the purchase price and whether the property falls within the thresholds for relief.
For example, no stamp duty is charged on the first £425,000 of a qualifying property, but higher amounts may incur a tax.
Using an online calculator or speaking with one of our mortgage advisors in Liverpool can provide clarity on your specific situation.
First time buyers in Liverpool benefit from a stamp duty threshold of £425,000.
This means you won’t pay any stamp duty on properties purchased at or below this amount. For properties priced between £425,001 and £625,000, a reduced rate applies.
However, if the purchase price exceeds £625,000, standard stamp duty rates are charged on the entire amount. Knowing these thresholds is key to understanding your potential costs.
The type of property can have an impact on stamp duty, particularly if it’s a leasehold, freehold, or non-residential property.
For most first time buyers in Liverpool purchasing standard residential homes, the standard rules and thresholds for stamp duty relief apply.
However, properties with mixed-use or those bought under shared ownership schemes may involve additional considerations.
It’s worth seeking mortgage advice in Liverpool to understand how your specific property type might influence your stamp duty costs.
The type of property can have an impact on stamp duty, particularly if it’s a leasehold, freehold, or non-residential property.
For most first time buyers in Liverpool purchasing standard residential homes, the standard rules and thresholds for stamp duty relief apply.
However, properties with mixed-use or those bought under shared ownership schemes may involve additional considerations.
It’s worth seeking professional mortgage advice in Liverpool to understand how your specific property type might influence your stamp duty costs.
Navigating the complexities of stamp duty and purchasing your first home can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
As mortgage broker in Liverpool, we specialise in helping first time buyers in Liverpool understand the costs involved and secure the most suitable mortgage deals.
Whether you need clarity on stamp duty relief or guidance through the mortgage process, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
The process of saving a substantial deposit can prove challenging when you’re looking to buy your first property in Liverpool.
The ongoing surge in property prices spanning the past twenty years has made that deposit seem increasingly difficult to obtain.
If you are first time buyer in Liverpool looking to get onto the property ladder, this helpful guide should help answer some of your questions regarding saving for a mortgage with a 5% deposit.
More often than not, mortgage lenders request an initial deposit of roughly about 5% of the total property value.
For example, for a property costing £200,000, a deposit of £10,000 would be necessary. As a mortgage broker in Liverpool, we evaluate your income and your financial capacity to work out whether a 5% deposit is achievable or if you need to target a larger figure.
Under certain circumstances, it is possible to achieve a mortgage with a 5% deposit even with bad credit in Liverpool.
Nonetheless, the viability is largely influenced by the severity and duration of your credit complications.
Typically, candidates with poor credit histories are requested to present a higher deposit, usually around 10%-15% of the property value.
There are a variety of schemes available for homebuyers that can help applicants move up the property ladder. In Liverpool, if you are struggling to save for a deposit, perhaps some of these schemes could help:
This scheme might be beneficial for you as a first time buyer in Liverpool. It could assist you in securing a 95% mortgage, hence requiring only a 5% deposit.
Whether you qualify for this scheme entirely depends on your financial circumstances and creditworthiness.
Shared Ownership in Liverpool presents a realistic and affordable route to homeownership, by enabling individuals to own a portion of a property while renting the remainder.
You can buy a percentage of the property (usually between 25%-75%) and lease the rest. When the opportunity presents itself, you can gradually increase your percentage share in the property.
Sometimes, you will be able to build up to 100% ownership of the property.
This incentive caters to helping first time homebuyers build up a deposit. It’s suitable for individuals aged between 18 – 40 contemplating the purchase of their first home.
Essentially, the Lifetime ISA is just a savings account where you can save up to £4,000 annually. Whatever you manage to save within the year, the government will top-up your savings by an extra 25% (£1000 being the max).
For a comprehensive coverage of these schemes, you can head to OwnYourHome.gov.uk where you can find a complete list of the schemes available.
Alternatively, we invite you to connect with our team of mortgage advisors in Liverpool for a personalised discussion about your available options.
Depending on your personal financial situation, it may be possible to attain a mortgage with a 5% deposit without needing any additional support.
So if you’re a first time buyer in Liverpool, arrange your free mortgage appointment with us and kick-start your home ownership journey today.
In the past, if you were looking at getting a mortgage over 50 in Liverpool, you would have come across some restrictions as to what sort of product you could take out. Thanks to recent industry advancements and lending practices, this has now changed and the process of getting a mortgage over is becoming more straightforward.
This comprehensive guide dives into the realm of mortgages for borrowers over 50 in Liverpool.
There seems to be a myth that mortgage lenders are reluctant to cater to applicants above 50. We want to assure you that this is not true, and it is entirely possible to get a mortgage over 50 in Liverpool.
Recent adjustments in lending criteria have extended the age limit for a mortgage to be settled. This also eases the process for those seeking to remortgage. This shift addresses a significant obstacle, making it more accessible for individuals to manage their mortgage arrangements effectively.
Of course, you will not qualify for every different type of mortgage out there. But, there will be products that you do qualify for that better match your personal and financial situation.
Most mortgages will have an age cap on them. These caps can differ from lender to lender.
While some only consider your active work income until you’re 70, we have seen that others have set the age limit at 75 before.
Beyond this age, it could be more challenging, making you consider other alternatives such as a lifetime mortgage in Liverpool.
Regardless of the mortgage term you’re wanting, ensuring suitability is crucial.
Mortgage providers will examine your current earnings and forecast your post-retirement income.
As a rule of thumb, the borrowing limit doesn’t typically exceed four and a half times your income, but this benchmark can fluctuate.
To get an accurate measurement of your affordability, consult with our mortgage advisors in Liverpool for a complimentary affordability assessment.
If you are looking at your retirement mortgage options in Liverpool and are trying to work out whether it’s feasible to get a mortgage… the answer is yes!
A key consideration for lenders is your ability to showcase a dependable retirement income capable of covering your monthly repayment obligations.
Securing a mortgage over the age of 50 in Liverpool follows a process similar to traditional mortgages. Mortgage lenders place significant emphasis on affordability, assessing both present and future financial scenarios.
Those aged 50 or above have the option to explore retirement interest-only mortgages or lifetime mortgages, depending on their unique situation.
Generally, these choices are viewed as a last resort by applicants. Therefore, it would be advisable to speak with a mortgage advisor in Liverpool before moving forward with one of these options.
We often encounter applicants who wish to remortgage to withdraw funds from their property.
Given that many individuals over 50 have accumulated a considerable amount of equity in their property, remortgaging could offer an excellent solution to tap into this equity.
However, taking money out of your property when you are over 50 comes with certain restrictions. You may only be eligible to withdraw a particular sum, or in some instances, none at all.
Don’t hesitate to speak to an expert mortgage advisor in Liverpool if you are looking to get a mortgage over 50 in Liverpool. It can be difficult to know just where to start!
Our team of mortgage advisors in Liverpool can provide invaluable insight and guidance to help you successfully navigate through your mortgage journey.
Property prices have been on the rise, often outpacing the growth of wages. To tackle this, many people are considering joint property purchases with partners or friends.
This approach helps spread the financial load, making it easier to afford a suitable home. Joint ownership can also boost your borrowing capacity since lenders look at the combined incomes of all parties involved.
Some lenders surprisingly allow up to four individuals to co-own a property. This means if one person stops contributing to the mortgage, the remaining co-owners still have the legal right to stay in the property.
Planning ahead is important. If you’re thinking about making changes to the mortgage down the line, it’s important to get consent from all co-owners. This forward thinking helps avoid potential conflicts.
‘Joint tenancy’ is often favoured by couples or those in civil partnerships. In case one partner passes away, the property smoothly transfers to the surviving co-owner, usually covered by life insurance for mortgage repayment.
When buying with relatives or friends, ‘tenants in common’ is a flexible option. It allows joint ownership without requiring equal shares. This setup is handy when one person contributes more financially.
All borrowers on a mortgage share joint and several liability for payments. This means if one person stops paying, the other remains fully responsible to prevent the mortgage from going into arrears.
Recognising this shared responsibility is key. Lenders take a careful look at mortgage arrears, which could affect future borrowing.
Lenders want to see that you can manage payments independently. Before making any changes to the mortgage, they’ll check if you’re ready for the financial commitment.
After a separation, it’s important to monitor credit reports, especially if you’re helping your ex-partner with payments. Defaults can impact both of your credit scores.
Even with an agreement for one person to take full responsibility, joint responsibility for mortgage payments continues after a separation. This can impact your ability to secure a new mortgage.
When considering joint property ownership, clear agreements are essential. Whether you’re a first time buyer in Liverpool or moving home in Liverpool, knowing the outcomes in unexpected situations is important.
For tailored advice on joint property ownership, removing a name from a mortgage, or exploring your options for a remortgage in Liverpool, our team is here to help. Book a free mortgage appointment to discuss your options.
When stepping into property ownership, you’re presented with a decision between two routes: making an upfront purchase or choosing a mortgage for gradual repayment.
Each path has its associated costs. An upfront payment requires a substantial initial sum, whereas a mortgage spreads expenses out over the long term.
Choosing to make an upfront property purchase is a wise investment, whether you intend to live in the property or venture into buy to let in Liverpool. It sets you up for future financial stability in the property market.
Cash buyers often hold a favourable position compared to those opting for mortgages in property transactions. Sellers value the reliability of cash transactions, as they ensure quick sales without the complexities of property chains, which can lead to delays. Cash buyers bypass affordability checks and can proceed swiftly.
Moving home in Liverpool can be stressful, but cash buyers streamline the process, avoiding potential hurdles associated with mortgage procedures.
While mortgage applicants can also speed up the process with proper preparation, involving an experienced mortgage broker in Liverpool ensures a smoother journey through the intricacies of property transactions.
Opting for a mortgage entails a significant financial commitment, typically spanning 20-25+ years. A cash offer eliminates the burden of repaying a loan, avoiding interest payments that would inflate monthly costs in a mortgage scenario.
When cash isn’t readily available, the alternative is securing a mortgage.
Rather than depleting life savings for a property purchase, saving while obtaining a mortgage presents a viable alternative.
Both routes lead to property ownership, and with a good credit score, securing a mortgage may only require a 5% deposit. Monthly repayments vary based on interest rates, mortgage products, and property specifics, allowing for gradual payment and potential overpayments.
Properties labelled “cash buyers only” should prompt caution, often indicating underlying issues or the need for repairs.
While a mortgage might be challenging for such properties, it’s wise to conduct a property survey regardless of the payment method chosen. This step, recommended for both cash and mortgage buyers, ensures a thorough understanding of the property’s condition.
Embarking on a property purchase without guidance may disadvantage you compared to those with a mortgage advisor in Liverpool.
An advisor simplifies the moving home process, and our aim is to provide a swift and friendly advice service. Consider reaching out to our team for a free consultation to navigate your moving home journey effectively.
Starting your university journey not only signifies newfound freedom and independence but also entails significant costs, particularly in accommodation fees. The quality of student accommodation can vary widely, from excellent landlords to neglectful ones.
Frustrations with the latter have prompted some students to explore an alternative – becoming their own landlord through a student mortgage.
This approach not only offers short-term cost savings but also unlocks long-term benefits, empowering students to seize control of their living situation and craft a more enriching university experience.
Opting for a student mortgage extends beyond mere accommodation cost reduction; it marks an early foray into the property market.
Popular among higher education students, these mortgages provide flexibility, enabling students to either sell the property or retain it as a buy to let in Liverpool. As academic journeys progress, so does the potential equity in the property.
This accrued equity can be leveraged post-graduation, furnishing students with financial flexibility for various endeavours. The diverse opportunities associated with the property afford students the autonomy to make decisions aligned with their evolving needs and aspirations.
While securing a student mortgage poses financial hurdles, careful planning coupled with expert mortgage advice in Liverpool can help to minimise and overcome these.
As reputable mortgage brokers in Liverpool, we meticulously evaluate eligibility criteria, considering factors such as deposit capability, financial capacity, and income sources.
Government schemes and strategic approaches, such as augmenting the deposit or obtaining an agreement in principle (AIP), serve to bolster the application’s credibility.
Our dedicated mortgage advisors in Liverpool furnish tailored advice, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of the financial requisites for securing a student mortgage.
Demonstrating reliability as a mortgage applicant holds paramount importance for success. Strategies such as opting for a higher deposit, exploring government-backed initiatives, and procuring an agreement in principle can underscore financial stability and responsibility.
These tactics not only fortify the application but also contribute to a streamlined approval process. For bespoke insights and expert guidance, our proficient mortgage advisors in Liverpool stand poised to help.
Student mortgage approval hinges on meeting specific criteria, including the property’s location within a 10-mile radius of the university and its ideal size of 3-4 bedrooms.
Strategically planning for unused rooms and considering the option of renting them out can constitute a savvy financial manoeuvre.
Lenders, aware of the inherent risks associated with lending to students, put in precautionary measures by making sure the applicant has a guarantor.
Selecting a suitable guarantor is important, with criteria typically encompassing an age limit below 65, UK property ownership, and residency within said property. This arrangement provides mortgage lenders with a safeguard in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Our dedicated team stands ready to help students in realising their aspirations for a student mortgage, offering tailored mortgage advice for first time buyers in Liverpool. Reach out to us today to evaluate your eligibility and embark on your journey towards student homeownership.
Many of our customers often inquire about the process of becoming a first time buyer in Liverpool when purchasing a home. To guide you through this journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the 10 steps you’ll encounter during the mortgage process.
Our goal is to ensure you’re well-prepared for your mortgage journey and equipped with the necessary knowledge to navigate through each stage seamlessly.
Now comes the exciting step of purchasing your first home and securing a first time buyer mortgage in Liverpool. Taking this leap onto the property ladder marks one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make.
Understandably, the entire experience can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process. With the support of our dedicated mortgage broker in Liverpool, we’re here to ease your concerns and guide you through the process.
Our aim is to alleviate the stress and work tirelessly to secure a suitable mortgage deal for you. To get started, simply book your free mortgage appointment with one of our qualified mortgage advisors in Liverpool, who will gather essential details about your situation and goals to kickstart your journey.
During your free mortgage consultation, our mortgage advisors in Liverpool will conduct a thorough mortgage affordability assessment.
This assessment entails evaluating your monthly income and regular expenses to determine whether you can comfortably afford the monthly repayments for the mortgage amount you’re seeking.
Performing an affordability assessment before submitting your application to a lender is key as it ensures that you can meet your repayment obligations.
By mitigating the risk of arrears and potential repossession, both you and the lender can proceed with confidence. While lenders typically conduct their affordability checks, our initial assessment can streamline the process, saving time for all parties involved.
As part of your consultation, you’ll receive a mortgage agreement in principle, which can bolster your position as a first time buyer in Liverpool when making an offer on a property.
Commonly referred to as a ‘decision in principle’ or ‘mortgage in principle,’ this document signifies that you’ve passed the lender’s initial credit assessment, providing assurance to sellers of your serious intent to purchase.
While obtaining an agreement in principle doesn’t guarantee mortgage approval, it demonstrates your financial readiness and may facilitate negotiations with sellers. This document typically remains valid for 30-90 days and can be easily renewed if necessary.
Our mortgage advisors in Liverpool strive to expedite this process, often providing an agreement in principle within 24 hours of your initial appointment.
Following your agreement in principle, it’s essential to engage a conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal aspects of your homebuying journey.
Your conveyancing solicitor will oversee various tasks, including drafting contracts, conducting property searches, liaising with local authorities, and facilitating fund transfers. Choosing the right conveyancing solicitor is important, as they play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and legally compliant transaction.
While licensed conveyancers specialise in property matters, solicitors offer a broader range of legal services but may come at a higher cost. Although we don’t provide conveyancing services in-house, our dedicated mortgage advisors in Liverpool can refer you to reputable solicitors to help with your needs.
With the guidance of your mortgage broker in Liverpool, passing the affordability assessment, securing an agreement in principle, and enlisting the services of a conveyancing solicitor, you’re now ready to make an offer on your desired property.
Armed with an agreement in principle, you’re in a favourable position to negotiate the purchase price, demonstrating your financial readiness to sellers. While an agreement in principle strengthens your offer, it’s essential to remain flexible and open to negotiation.
In the event of a rejected offer, you can explore alternative properties or revisit your offer strategy. Upon acceptance of your offer, reconnect with your mortgage advisor in Liverpool to proceed with your mortgage application.
Ensure timely submission of required documents to your lender, as they play an important role in assessing your mortgage application. Documentation such as proof of identity, proof of address, recent payslips, and bank statements are vital for evaluating your financial position and creditworthiness.
For joint mortgage applicants, documentation from all parties involved is necessary to complete the application process. Our mortgage advisors in Liverpool can guide you through the document submission process, ensuring all requirements are met for a seamless application experience.
With your agreement in principle secured and your offer accepted, our mortgage advisors in Liverpool can initiate the submission of your full mortgage application.
Thoroughly reviewed and prepared, your application will be submitted to the lender for assessment, marking a significant milestone in your homebuying journey. Upon submission, our team will closely monitor the progress of your application, liaising with the lender to expedite the review process.
While there’s no fixed timeframe for a decision, our dedicated mortgage administration team will actively follow up with the lender to provide timely updates on your application status.
As part of the mortgage process, the lender will conduct a valuation survey of the property to ascertain its true market value. This valuation is vital in determining the property’s suitability as collateral for the mortgage.
In the event of a down valuation, where the property’s assessed value falls below the agreed purchase price, the lender may reconsider your mortgage offer. To mitigate this risk, our mortgage advisors in Liverpool can help you select the right survey option tailored to your needs and budget.
Once your lender completes the review of your application and assesses all supporting documentation, they’ll issue your mortgage offer. Our team of mortgage advisors and administrators in Liverpool will conduct final checks to ensure accuracy and completeness before forwarding the offer to you.
With the mortgage offer in hand, your conveyancing solicitor will proceed to finalise the legal aspects of your property purchase, bringing you one step closer to homeownership.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully transitioned from being a first time buyer in Liverpool to a proud homeowner.
As you eagerly anticipate receiving the keys to your new home and embarking on this exciting new chapter, we hope you’ve found our services valuable and received prompt and friendly mortgage advice throughout your journey.
Should you opt for a fixed-rate mortgage, our team will be on hand to help with your remortgage in Liverpool at the end of your term, ensuring continued support and guidance in managing your mortgage needs.
A fundamental aspect in the mortgage application process is securing an agreement in principle (AIP), also known as a decision in principle. This involves successfully passing a lender’s credit score, establishing your eligibility for a mortgage.
Securing an AIP not only demonstrates your readiness as a first time buyer in Liverpool but can also be a valuable tool in negotiations. Sellers often view it as a sign of your seriousness and financial capability, potentially aiding in discussions for a lower price.
Credit scoring typically involves soft searches more frequently than hard searches.
While both may have an impact on your credit score, hard searches are more likely to do so as they leave a credit footprint. Regardless of the method, lenders use credit checks with good intentions.
Occasional hard credit checks may not significantly impact your credit score, but caution is advised against too many within a short timeframe. However, if you possess a strong credit score and it aligns with the lender’s requirements, it shouldn’t pose a problem.
While having an agreement in principle is advantageous, it doesn’t guarantee a mortgage. Lenders still require a thorough review of all your documents before an underwriter makes the final decision.
Many applicants discover this reality after being declined due to overlooked details in their initial agreement.
Making an offer without an agreement in principle is possible but not recommended. Reputable estate agents typically expect first time buyers in Liverpool to provide evidence of their financial readiness before proceeding.
Obtaining an agreement in principle promptly is feasible, often within 24 hours, by reaching out to an experienced mortgage advisor in Liverpool.
Typically, an agreement in principle has a validity period of 30-90 days. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean rushing into a home purchase. If it expires, obtaining a new one before making an offer is a straightforward process.
Securing an agreement in principle early in your home-buying journey is advisable to avoid potential disappointments associated with declined mortgage applications. It provides a solid foundation and ensures you are well-prepared when moving forward with your property purchase.
Commencing the journey of acquiring your inaugural home in Liverpool is a thrilling milestone, albeit one that may initially seem overwhelming. To navigate the intricacies of home buying and the mortgage process with confidence, it’s important to comprehend the essential steps involved.
In this comprehensive article, our goal is to provide a detailed breakdown of the journey awaiting first time buyers in Liverpool. Additionally, we introduce the invaluable assistance offered by Liverpoolmoneyman. With our guidance, you’ll be well-prepared to initiate your homeownership journey.
For first time buyers in Liverpool, the journey commences with thorough research into the local housing market and a meticulous assessment of affordability.
Liverpool boasts diverse neighbourhoods, each with its unique character and property prices. Exploring various areas while considering amenities, transportation links, and nearby schools is essential for making informed decisions aligned with your preferences and budget.
Saving for a deposit is a pivotal step for first time buyers in Liverpool. The size of your deposit directly influences available mortgage options and interest rates.
Liverpoolmoneyman offers expert mortgage advice tailored to your needs, including insights on deposit-saving strategies. We guide you through government schemes like Shared Ownership, making homeownership more accessible.
Securing a mortgage marks a significant milestone, and Liverpoolmoneyman specialises in helping first time buyers in Liverpool in finding the right mortgage deals.
Our experienced mortgage advisors assess your financial circumstances, providing guidance on various mortgage options. They explain terms, interest rates, and repayment options, ensuring a clear understanding to make informed decisions aligned with your budget and goals.
With a mortgage agreement in principle secured, the next step involves the exciting search for your dream home in Liverpool. Utilise online property portals and local estate agents to explore available properties.
Property viewings offer a chance to immerse yourself in potential homes, envisioning your life there while considering key factors like proximity to amenities and future growth potential.
Upon finding the ideal property, the next step is making an offer to the seller, leading to the conveyancing process.
Liverpoolmoneyman recommends trustworthy solicitors or conveyancers to handle legal aspects, ensuring a smooth and thorough process. Their expertise provides assurance and peace of mind during this vital phase.
Arranging a survey and valuation for the intended property is essential for first time buyers in Liverpool. Professional surveyors assess the property’s condition, identifying potential issues.
The valuation report ensures the agreed price aligns with the property’s fair market value, key for making informed decisions and ensuring the property’s overall condition.
Post-survey, the focus shifts to finalising your mortgage application. Liverpoolmoneyman guides you through gathering required documents and submitting them to the mortgage lender.
Our dedicated team ensures a clear understanding of each step, aiming for a stress-free application process and successful mortgage approval.
After mortgage approval, the final steps involve exchanging contracts and completing the purchase. During the exchange, both parties commit to the transaction, with a specific completion date agreed upon.
On completion day, remaining funds are transferred, officially marking you as the proud owner of your new home in Liverpool.
Initiating your journey as a first time buyer in Liverpool is a blend of excitement and nerves. With Liverpoolmoneyman’s support, you can confidently navigate the home buying and mortgage process.
Our seasoned mortgage advisors specialise in guiding first-time buyers through the entire journey, covering key aspects from saving for a deposit to securing the dream home.
Reach out to Liverpoolmoneyman today and take the first step towards realising your homeownership dreams in Liverpool.
As a mortgage broker in Liverpool, we have come across many different applicants who ask the question “what is an agreement in principle?”. We feel like people ask this question as there are a lot of different variations of an agreement in principle.
You will have heard agreement in principle, mortgage in principle and decision in principle. In fact, these are all exactly the same!
But how do they work? What is an agreement in principle? This article covers these questions and why an agreement in principle is essential during the start of your mortgage journey.
A mortgage agreement in principle or AIP is a formal agreement between the buyer and the lender stating that the buyer is able to borrow from them. This agreement is reliant on evidential documents that can back up income and affordability.
Having an agreement in principle in place also shows that you have passed a lender’s credit check. Whether they perform a hard or soft credit search is down to the lender.
An agreement in principle is needed to be able to make an offer on a property. At the point of making an offer, the estate agent will likely ask you whether or not you have one in place.
Sometimes, an agreement in principle can help you negotiate the asking price. If you are a first time buyer in Liverpool, it could be really useful to try and get the price lowered by a small amount.
If you have an agreement in principle in place, the seller will know that you are serious about your purchase and you have the funds to proceed.
Some agreements in principle can affect your credit score. This is down to the credit search that lenders carry out.
Lenders will usually opt for soft credit searches, which will mean that your credit is unaffected. However, if they choose to perform a hard credit search, if something bad appears on your file, it could adversely affect your credit score.
If nothing appears on your file, an occasional hard credit check on your file should not harm your credit. When several hard checks are made, things can start to negatively affect you.
No one will ever be guaranteed a mortgage, however, agreement in principle may be able to increase your chances of getting accepted now.
With your agreement in principle, you will need to supply documents that evidence your income and affordability. Lenders will need to see your ID, bank statements, P60, payslips and proof of deposit before accepting your application.
If you are self employed in Liverpool, you may need to supply slightly more things.
Yes, you can, however, it may take slightly longer to get approved as you have no written agreement between yourself and the lender.
An agreement in principle can take as little as 24 hours to come through. As a mortgage broker in Liverpool, we are able to get this to you within 24 hours of your free mortgage appointment. It’s that easy!
Typically, your AIP will last between 30-90 days and if it expires before you proceed with a property purchase, don’t panic, it can easily be renewed! Just get in touch with one of our mortgage advisors in Liverpool.
We recommend obtaining an agreement in principle as early in the process as possible. This way, you can avoid the disappointment of being let down or declined for a mortgage.
Speak to one of our team members to get your process started and receive a free mortgage appointment online.
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