Property has always been more than bricks and mortar. It represents stability, independence, and, for many people, a significant life milestone. Whether it is a first flat, a family home, or a place chosen later in life, property often reflects a particular moment in time. It captures where someone is, what they value, and what they are building. Over the years, the way people view property has evolved. There have been periods where it felt accessible and straightforward, and others where it has felt more uncertain. Market conditions shift, interest rates rise and fall, and economic cycles influence what feels possible. Despite these changes, the underlying meaning of property has remained remarkably consistent. For many, it provides a sense of permanence in an otherwise fast-moving world. It is one of the few things that people fully inhabit. It holds memories, routines, and the details of everyday life that often go unnoticed at the time but become meaningful in hindsight. The way people engage with property has also changed. Online listings allow homes to be viewed instantly. Digital applications have streamlined processes that once took far longer. Conversations that were once held entirely in person now often begin remotely. Yet the emotional connection to property remains unchanged. People still remember their first home. They remember how it felt to collect the keys, to walk through the door for the first time, and to recognise that something had shifted. Property has a way of marking chapters in life, often quietly, but with lasting significance. It also reflects broader social and economic change. Different generations experience property differently, shaped by the conditions of their time. What remains constant is the role property plays as both a practical necessity and a personal milestone. In a world where much has become temporary, property continues to represent something more enduring.

Why People Do It and When It May Make Sense Remortgaging is often talked about as something you do when interest rates fall or when your fixed deal ends. In reality, people remortgage for many different reasons, and it is not always about chasing the lowest rate. For homeowners in 2026, understanding why people remortgage and when it may make sense can help you feel more in control of your options, rather than reacting under pressure. What does remortgaging actually mean? Remortgaging simply means switching your existing mortgage to a new deal. This can be with your current lender or with a different one. The property stays the same, but the terms of the mortgage change. Some people remortgage at the end of a fixed or discounted period. Others do it earlier, depending on their circumstances. There is no single “right” time that applies to everyone. Common reasons people remortgage One of the most common reasons for remortgaging is the end of a fixed-rate deal. When a fixed period ends, many mortgages move onto the lender’s standard variable rate, which is often higher and less predictable. Reviewing options in advance can help homeowners avoid unexpected payment increases. Another reason people remortgage is to release equity. This might be to fund home improvements, consolidate existing borrowing, or support other planned expenses. While this can make sense for some people, it also increases the amount borrowed and should always be considered carefully. Changes in personal circumstances can also prompt a remortgage. This might include changes to income, household structure, or long-term plans. A mortgage that suited you five years ago may no longer fit your current situation. Some homeowners remortgage to change the structure of their mortgage, such as moving from an interest-only arrangement to repayment, or shortening or extending the mortgage term to better align with future plans. When might it be worth reviewing your mortgage? Many people leave reviewing their mortgage until the last minute, but starting early often gives you more choice. Reviewing your position several months before a deal ends allows time to understand your options without pressure. It can also be worth reviewing your mortgage if your property value has changed significantly or if you have reduced the balance you owe. This may affect your loan-to-value ratio, which plays a role in the range of mortgage products available. That said, remortgaging is not always the right answer. Early repayment charges, legal fees and valuation costs can sometimes outweigh the benefits. This is why understanding the full picture matters more than focusing on rates alone. Understanding the costs involved Remortgaging can involve costs such as arrangement fees, valuation fees, legal fees and potential early repayment charges from your current lender. Some deals include incentives to help offset these costs, but they should still be factored into any decision. Looking only at the headline interest rate without considering fees can give a misleading impression of value. Understanding the overall cost over time is key. Affordability still matters Even if you have been paying your mortgage comfortably for years, lenders will still assess affordability when you remortgage, especially if you are borrowing more or changing lenders. Changes in income, outgoings or financial commitments can affect what is available. Being aware of this in advance can help avoid frustration or delays. Taking a measured approach Remortgaging does not have to be rushed or reactive. Taking time to understand why you might want to remortgage, what you hope to achieve, and what the implications are can help you make more confident decisions. Reliable, impartial information is a useful starting point before making any commitments. Please get in touch if you’d like to speak about your mortgage. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you start the year with a clear plan, confident decisions and a mortgage that works for you.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Inheriting a property can bring mixed emotions. Alongside the personal significance, there are often practical and financial questions to work through. Many people are unsure what happens if there is an existing mortgage, whether they need to sell the property, or whether they can take ownership and arrange a mortgage in their own name. It is common to feel unprepared when a property is inherited. You may be unsure what steps need to be taken legally, whether probate affects your options, or how lenders view inherited homes. Understanding the available mortgage routes can help you decide what to do next. This article explains the main mortgage options available when you inherit a property in the UK, including living in the property, renting it out, remortgaging, or buying out other beneficiaries. What mortgage options are available for an inherited property? When you inherit a property, your mortgage options depend on several factors. These include whether the property already has a mortgage, whether probate has been completed, whether the property is shared with other beneficiaries, and what you plan to do with the home. If there is an existing mortgage, the lender will need to be contacted early on. They will usually want to know how the outstanding balance will be dealt with. This typically leads to one of two outcomes. If no beneficiary wants to keep the property, it is usually sold and the mortgage repaid from the sale proceeds. Any remaining funds then form part of the estate. If a beneficiary wants to keep the property, the existing mortgage is usually repaid and replaced with a new mortgage in the beneficiary’s own name. This means applying for a mortgage based on your income and circumstances, rather than taking over the original loan. You are not usually required to stay with the original lender. If you are keeping the property, you can explore mortgages with any lender willing to consider your situation. Once this position is clear, inherited property mortgages generally fall into four broad categories. Standard residential mortgage. If you plan to live in the inherited property as your main home, a standard residential mortgage may be appropriate. This works in much the same way as any other residential mortgage, with the lender assessing affordability, income, credit history, and the value of the property. Buy-to-let mortgage. If you plan to rent the property out rather than live in it, a buy-to-let mortgage may be required. Lenders will typically assess the expected rental income as well as your personal financial position. This option may suit beneficiaries who do not wish to sell but are not planning to occupy the property themselves. Remortgaging an inherited property. If the inherited property is mortgage-free, it may be possible to remortgage it to release funds. This can be used for purposes such as renovations, paying inheritance-related costs, or supporting other financial plans. The amount available will depend on affordability and the lender’s criteria. Bridging finance. In some cases, short-term finance may be used to cover a temporary gap. This can be relevant if funds are needed quickly, for example to buy out another beneficiary or carry out essential work before a longer-term mortgage is arranged. Bridging finance is usually intended as a temporary solution rather than a long-term arrangement. Can I use a mortgage to buy out siblings or other beneficiaries? Yes, it is possible to use a mortgage to buy out other beneficiaries and take sole ownership of an inherited property. This is often done through a transfer of equity, where ownership shares are adjusted and one person becomes the sole owner. Lenders will usually require confirmation that all beneficiaries agree to the arrangement and that the mortgage is affordable based on your individual income. A solicitor will handle the legal transfer and ensure funds are distributed correctly. Can I get a mortgage if the property is still in probate? No. A mortgage cannot usually be completed until probate has been granted and ownership has legally transferred. Probate confirms who is entitled to manage and inherit the estate. While you can begin gathering information and speaking to lenders during probate, funds are not normally released until the legal process is complete and the property is registered in your name. Can I take over the deceased person’s mortgage? In most cases, lenders do not allow an existing mortgage to be transferred directly to a beneficiary. Instead, the original mortgage is repaid and replaced with a new mortgage in the beneficiary’s name, subject to affordability checks. What legal steps must be completed first? Before applying for a mortgage on an inherited property, several legal steps must be completed. Probate or letters of administration must be granted. Any inheritance tax due must be settled. Ownership must be registered with the Land Registry. Only once these steps are complete can a mortgage usually proceed. Frequently asked questions. Do I have to pay tax on an inherited property? Inheritance tax may apply depending on the value of the estate and available allowances. Capital gains tax may apply if the property is later sold for more than its value at the date of death. How long does probate take? Timescales vary. Straightforward estates may take a few months, while more complex cases can take longer. What if I inherit a property with a mortgage I cannot afford? In many cases, selling the property or arranging a more affordable mortgage may be considered. Understanding your options early can help avoid unnecessary pressure. Inheriting a property often involves both emotional and practical challenges. Taking time to understand the legal position and available mortgage routes can help you make informed decisions about what happens next. Please get in touch if you’d like to speak about your mortgage. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you start the year with a clear plan, confident decisions and a mortgage that works for you.   Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

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Discover tailored mortgage solutions at The Mortgage Network. From expert advice and clear borrowing guidance to seamless application processing, we specialise in competitive options for homebuyers and Buy-to-Let investors. Trust our experience and lender relationships to secure the best mortgage for your needs. Looking for a mortgage? Here’s what we offer: Expert advice tailored to your needs. Clear guidance on borrowing limits. Assistance in finding the right mortgage product. Submission and processing of your mortgage application. At The Mortgage Network, we specialise in securing competitive mortgages for both homebuyers and Buy to Let Investors. With our extensive experience and strong lender relationships, we keep up with market changes to offer you the best options available. Mortgages Offering individual mortgage guidance tailored specifically to your needs Contact Us Book a Call First-time Buyer Welcome to The Mortgage Network, where we specialize in guiding first-time homebuyers through the exciting journey of purchasing their first property. Navigating mortgages can be complex, but we're here to simplify the process for you, providing expert advice and walking you through every step until you reach your new front door. Here's how we can assist you: Establishing Your Budget: We'll help you determine a realistic budget using our budget planner tool, ensuring that your mortgage is comfortably affordable. Deposit Guidance: Understanding how much deposit you need is crucial. We'll explain the concept of loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and help you explore mortgage deals based on your deposit size. Considering Extra Costs: Beyond the purchase price, we'll help you factor in additional expenses like furnishings, renovations, conveyancing fees, and stamp duty. We source the most suitable mortgage options from a wide range of lenders. This ensures you have access to competitive rates and a mortgage product that matches your needs. Budgeting for Household Expenses: We'll guide you in budgeting for ongoing expenses such as council tax, utilities, and maintenance, ensuring there are no surprises once you're a homeowner. Remember, a mortgage is a long-term commitment, so finding the right solution tailored to your needs is paramount. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Read More on First Time Buyers Moving Home Welcome to The Mortgage Network, your go-to destination for expert mortgage assistance when you're moving home. Don't wait until the eleventh hour to determine your borrowing capacity or find the right mortgage product. Call us today to position yourself for a successful home purchase. Navigating the residential mortgage market can be daunting, with each lender offering different criteria and a myriad of products. With our extensive experience and wealth of knowledge, we're equipped to guide you through this maze, regardless of your background, credit situation, or unique requirements. When you choose The Mortgage Network, you benefit from: Expert Guidance : Our seasoned advisers will help you make informed decisions, ensuring you select a mortgage that aligns with your financial needs and goals. Comprehensive Lender Options: We source the most suitable mortgage options from a wide range of lenders, not limited to your current lender. This ensures you have access to competitive rates and suitable terms. Financial Clarity : We'll provide insights into how much you can afford to borrow, the associated fees, and what your monthly mortgage payments are likely to be, giving you a clear picture of your financial commitments. It's crucial to seek impartial advice rather than simply reverting to your existing lender. While they may offer mortgage products, there could be better options available elsewhere, potentially saving you money in the long run. Don't navigate the homebuying process alone. Contact The Mortgage Network today and let us guide you toward a smooth and successful move. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Switching to different lenders may incur extra costs. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Remortgage Could you be overpaying on your mortgage? As your mortgage renewal date approaches, it's crucial to explore whether you could secure a better deal. When your fixed-term mortgage expires, you're often shifted to your lender's standard variable rate (SVR), potentially resulting in higher monthly payments. Don't wait until it's too late – take proactive steps to obtain a competitive mortgage. Remortgaging requires a keen understanding of the market, and with our years of experience, we possess unparalleled market intelligence to guide you through this process. Consider the following factors when contemplating a remortgage: Fees: While lower rates may seem enticing, it's essential to account for administration and setup fees associated with changing your mortgage. Additionally, consider legal and valuation fees, which some lenders may pay upon switching. Equity: The amount of equity you have in your property plays a significant role in securing favorable mortgage deals. A higher equity can often result in better terms from lenders. Capital Raising: If you're seeking to release capital through a remortgage, assess how this will affect your equity and, consequently, the deals available to you. Fixed or Variable Rates: Evaluate market conditions and personal preferences to determine whether fixed or variable rates suit your needs. Transitioning to your lender's Standard Variable Rate may lead to increased monthly payments, making a switch to another deal advantageous. No matter your requirements, we're here to provide expert guidance and support throughout your remortgaging journey. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Buy to Let In today's ever-evolving buy-to-let environment, staying informed and securing the right mortgage product is paramount. At The Mortgage Network, our experienced Buy to Let mortgage advisers are dedicated to helping property investors like you find competitive mortgage offers tailored to your needs. Whether you're a novice investor or a seasoned landlord, seeking a standard loan or facing a more complex situation, our advisers are equipped to provide expert guidance and equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about your mortgage. Here are the key benefits of our service: Proven Experience : With over 30 years of demonstrated mortgage expertise, we excel in sourcing competitive mortgage products for our clients. Comprehensive Mortgage Options : We meticulously search and compare buy-to-let mortgage deals from over 70 different lenders, ensuring we find a product ideally suited to you. Fantastic Mortgage Deals: You’ll get access to various amazing deals that are not available without an intermediary or from the high street banks. Insightful Knowledge : Our clients value our deep understanding of the mortgage market, returning to us time and again for expert insights and guidance. Client Satisfaction : We're dedicated to delivering excellent client service and professional mortgage advice, ensuring your satisfaction every step of the way. When it comes to buy-to-let mortgages, it's essential to understand how they differ from residential mortgages: The deposit required for a buy-to-let mortgage is generally higher, typically at least 25% of the property value. Unlike residential mortgages, where borrowing is linked to income, buy-to-let lenders assess the property's rental potential to determine borrowing capacity. Whether you're venturing into property investment for the first time or expanding an existing portfolio, securing the right buy-to-let mortgage is crucial. Trust The Mortgage Network to guide you through the process and unlock the full potential of your property investments. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. 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Discover tailored mortgage solutions at The Mortgage Network. From expert advice and clear borrowing guidance to seamless application processing, we specialise in competitive options for homebuyers and Buy-to-Let investors. Trust our experience and lender relationships to secure the best mortgage for your needs. Your Complete First-Time Buyer Guide Thinking about buying your first home? This comprehensive guide walks you through every single step of the home buying journey, from your first mortgage conversation to the moment you get your keys! In this video, we break down: Initial mortgage consultation and what to expect Getting your Mortgage Agreement in Principle House hunting with confidence Making an offer and full mortgage application Valuation and survey process Understanding the legal process Exchange of contracts and completion Moving into your dream home! At The Mortgage Network, we've helped hundreds of first-time buyers navigate this exciting journey. Whether you're just starting to think about buying or you're ready to take the next step, we're here to make the process clear, simple, and stress-free. Contact Us Book a Call