House Mover Mortgage

The Mortgage Process When Moving House

We explore options available in detail and provide practical steps that homeowners can take to ensure a smooth transition when moving house.

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Keith Ahmed
DipFA CeMAP CeRER
Mortgage & Protection Director
Category:
Read time:
7
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Published:
August 27, 2021
Updated:
April 4, 2022

A Home Mover Mortgage, also known as a porting mortgage, is a type of loan designed for individuals who want to sell their current property and move to a new one. This allows borrowers to 'port' their existing mortgage to the new property, which can be particularly beneficial if the current mortgage has favourable terms or if early repayment charges would apply to switch to a new mortgage.

The process is similar to remortgaging, but with the added complexity of coordinating the sale of an existing property and the purchase of a new one.

About
Eligibility
Pros & Cons
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The concept of a Home Mover Mortgage might seem as muddled as a British summer, but fear not, we're here to clear the clouds. Essentially, it involves transferring your existing mortgage to a new property, a process known as 'porting.' Think of it as taking your mortgage for a stroll from your current home to your new one. It's particularly handy if your existing mortgage has brilliant terms, or if you'd rather avoid those pesky early repayment charges that kick in if you switch to a new mortgage. However, it's not as simple as packing up and moving houses; there's a bit more juggling involved. You'll need to sell your current property whilst simultaneously buying a new one. It's akin to a delicate dance, requiring nimble coordination and precise timing. But with the right guidance, you'll be pirouetting through the process in no time.

Role of Existing Property Equity

When it comes to Home Mover Mortgages, the equity in your existing property plays a pivotal role. Think of it as the leading actor in your property drama. Equity is the difference between the market value of your house and what you owe on your mortgage. Basically, how much of your house you actually own. If you've been making payments on your mortgage for a while, you might be sitting on a nice nest egg of equity. This equity can be utilised in several ways when moving homes. It can be used as a deposit on your new home, reducing the amount you need to borrow.

Alternatively, if your home has increased in value significantly, you may be able to get a better mortgage deal. It's a bit like a game of Monopoly where you trade in your smaller green house for the grand red hotel. However, if you're in negative equity (where your outstanding mortgage is more than your home's value), moving homes could be more complicated, like trying to play chess on a rollercoaster. But even then, there are solutions available, and financial advice should be sought.

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Typical Process and Timeline

The process of securing a Home Mover Mortgage can be compared to a season of The Great British Bake Off – it requires a good mix of ingredients, precise timing, and a dash of patience. Here's a rough timeline:

  1. Financial Review (1-2 weeks)
    Just like Mary Berry inspects her Victoria sponges, your lender will scrutinise your financial circumstances. This includes confirming your income, outgoings, and the equity in your current property.
  2. Property Valuation (1-2 weeks)
    The lender will assess the value of your current and new property. Think of it as Paul Hollywood giving your buns a good poke to make sure they're baked to perfection.
  3. Mortgage Offer (1-2 weeks)
    Once satisfied, the lender will make a mortgage offer. It's a bit like getting that coveted handshake from Paul.
  4. Legal Work (4-6 weeks)
    Solicitors will then handle the conveyancing process. This involves transferring the property ownership, akin to passing the bake-off baton.
  5. Completion (1 day)
    Finally, you'll exchange contracts, complete the sale and purchase, and move into your new home. It's the showstopper moment when you present your final bake to the judges.

Remember, this is a typical timeline, but like any great baking contest, there can be unexpected delays and plot twists along the way.

Fixed vs Variable Rates

In the grand old game of mortgages, there are two main players when it comes to interest rates: fixed and variable.

A fixed rate mortgage is like your reliable cup of tea at four o'clock; you know exactly what you're getting. The interest rate stays the same throughout the length of the deal, so you can budget your monthly repayments with the ease of a maths whizz.

Variable rate mortgages, on the other hand, are a bit more like the British weather - unpredictable. These rates can rise or fall in line with the Bank of England base rate or the lender's own rates - hence the term 'variable'. This could see your monthly repayments change over time, either in your favour or not so much. So, if you're a bit of a risk taker, like to ride the waves and are financially prepared for changes, a variable rate mortgage could be your cup of tea. Remember, just as you would check the weather forecast before planning a picnic, do consult your financial adviser to understand which type of rate suits your circumstances the best.

Impact of Interest Rates on Repayments

Interest rates play a pivotal role in your mortgage repayments, much like the conductor in an orchestra, guiding the tempo and overall performance. If you're on a variable rate mortgage, a rise in interest rates can lead to your monthly payments increasing, like the rising crescendo in a symphony. On the other hand, if rates fall, your payments could decrease, providing a sweet lullaby to your financial worries. For those on a fixed rate mortgage, the interest rate (and therefore your repayment) remains steady and predictable - it's the comforting hum of the bass line that remains unchanging throughout the piece.

However, when the fixed rate period ends, you'll be subject to the fluctuating symphony of the standard variable rate, unless you choose to remortgage. Hence, understanding the impact of interest rates on your repayments is crucial in your home moving journey - it's akin to knowing the score before the performance begins.

The Application Process

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2

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3

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Eligibility

To qualify for a Home Mover Mortgage, you must meet certain criteria. These include: being over 18, having an annual income above a certain threshold (typically £25,000), and proving that you can afford the repayments on the new loan. In addition to this, your credit score and current financial circumstances will be assessed to determine whether or not you are eligible. You'll also need to demonstrate that you have sufficient equity in your current property and/or a large enough deposit to cover the difference between the cost of your new home and what's left on your existing mortgage.

The lender will assess your income, outgoings, credit score, and overall financial circumstances to determine if you're suitable for a Home Mover Mortgage. You'll also need to demonstrate that you have sufficient equity in your current property and/or a large enough deposit to cover the difference between the cost of your new home and what's left on your existing mortgage.

Aside from these criteria, there are other factors which might influence your eligibility for a Home Mover Mortgage. For instance, some lenders may require you to have been in your current home for a minimum length of time, or they might have higher rates for those with less equity in their existing property. Furthermore, if you plan on remortgaging or extending your mortgage term, the lender will need to approve this too.

There could also be other hurdles along the way such as obtaining permission from a freeholder or landlord if you're in a leasehold property. It's important to be aware that your lender may also carry out stringent affordability checks, such as stress testing your income and expenses against potential future interest rate increases.

Financial assessment

Under the "Financial Assessment" section, your lender will take a deep dive into your finances, exploring the depths much like a seasoned diver in the Great Barrier Reef. They'll evaluate your income, expenses, debt and credit history, aiming to ensure you can comfortably afford the new mortgage repayments. Lenders use multiple methods to assess affordability, including your debt-to-income ratio (the percentage of your income that goes towards paying off debt). A ratio below 35% is generally considered decent, it's like having a nice cup of tea – comforting and reassuring.

The lender may also consider future scenarios, like a potential increase in interest rates. It's a bit like looking into a crystal ball, but instead of predicting your love life, they're forecasting your financial future. Remember, the goal of this exercise is not to leave you high and dry, but to ensure your financial safety and stability. Always be open and honest with your lender about your financial situation, as it's a critical step towards securing a suitable Home Mover Mortgage.

Credit score impact

Your credit score is like the golden ticket in this Willy Wonka world of mortgages. Just as Charlie Bucket's life changed with a shiny piece of paper, so can your prospects for a Home Mover Mortgage with a healthy credit score. It's the lender's way of checking if you're a responsible borrower. A high score can open the door to better mortgage deals and lower interest rates.

On the other hand, a less-than-stellar score might see your mortgage application heading towards the shredder faster than a dodgy expense claim. But fear not, even if your credit history is a bit patchy, there are lenders who specialise in offering mortgages to those with less-than-perfect credit scores. Remember, every lender has different criteria, so don't lose hope if one door closes, another may well open.

Pros and Cons of a Home Mover Mortgage

  1. Upgrading Your Home
    A home mover mortgage allows you to move to a larger or more desirable property. This might become necessary with a growing family or improved financial circumstances.
  2. Location Change‍
    It provides the flexibility to relocate due to job changes, lifestyle requirements or personal preferences.
  3. Access to Better Rates‍
    If the value of your home has increased significantly, it could mean you're now in a lower loan-to-value band, and therefore eligible for better interest rates.
  1. Additional Costs
    Moving home involves various costs such as estate agent fees, solicitors' fees, stamp duty, and removal costs. These need to be factored into your budget.
  2. Potential for Higher Interest Rates
    If your financial circumstances have changed for the worse since your first mortgage, you might find yourself faced with higher interest rates.
  3. Risk of Negative Equity
    If the value of your home has decreased, you could end up in negative equity – where the outstanding mortgage is higher than the property value. This can make moving difficult.

Are there any alternatives to a Home mover mortgage?

Indeed, there are alternatives to a Home Mover Mortgage. If you're thinking of remortgaging your current home, a Remortgage can be a viable option. It allows you to either switch your mortgage to a different deal with your current lender or move your mortgage to another lender altogether.

Another alternative is a Second Charge Mortgage, also known as a secured loan. This type of mortgage allows you to use any equity you have in your home as security against another loan. It can be a viable option if you are unable to get a remortgage or a personal loan.

A Bridging Loan is also an alternative, typically used when there is a gap between the sale and completion dates in a chain. However, they can be expensive and should only be used as a last resort.

Why use Hello Mortgage?

At Hello Mortgage, we're like your personal mortgage maestro, orchestrating the perfect ensemble of mortgage deals for your new home. Our experts have been around the block a time or two, and they know the industry like the back of their hands. We compare a wide range of mortgage products from across the whole of market, not just a select few.

It's like having access to the entire sweets shop instead of just one shelf! We're unbiased, independent, and, most importantly, we work for you — not the lenders. We'll guide you through all the mortgage mumbo jumbo, explaining everything in simple, plain English.

We're committed to finding you the best deal that fits your needs and circumstances. After all, just like the perfect cuppa, your mortgage should be tailored to your taste!

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FAQs

House Mover Mortgage

Can I get a Home Mover Mortgage with a poor credit history?

Yes, indeed. It's like finding a good old British pub in the middle of Paris - rare, but possible. Some lenders specialise in helping those with less-than-perfect credit scores.

Is the process of getting a Home Mover Mortgage long and complicated?

Well, it's no longer than a game of Test cricket. However, it can be complex, given the factors involved - affordability checks, property valuation, legal procedures, etc. But fear not, with a good team (like at Hello Mortgage), it can be managed effectively.

Do I still need a deposit if I have equity in my current home?

The equity in your current home can be used as a deposit on your new home. However, if the equity in your current home is insufficient, you may need to top it up with additional savings.

What happens if the property I am buying is cheaper than the one I'm selling?

If the property you are buying is less expensive than the one you're selling, and you're porting the mortgage, you may end up borrowing less. This could potentially lead to 'overpayment', and you might have to pay an early repayment charge on the reduced amount.

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