Mortgages
Understanding mortgages
A mortgage is a loan you take out to buy a property. When taking out a mortgage, consider how much you can borrow. Check out the different interest rates available and any other fees or offers that may apply.
Applying for a mortgage
How can you apply for a mortgage? What do you need to know? Before you start looking at properties, try to get ‘approval in principle’ for a mortgage first so you know how much you can borrow.
Switching lenders or mortgage
If you are paying a mortgage, how much you pay back every month depends on: Your outstanding balance: This is the amount of money you have left to pay Your mortgage term: This is the length of time until you …
What to do if you are refused a mortgage
There are many reasons why a lender may refuse to give you a mortgage and you can find out the reasons from them.
Equity release mortgages
If you own your home, an equity release scheme could allow you to release some of the value of your home without having to make repayments during your lifetime, move out or sell your home on the open market. The conditions of equity release include that you cannot have an existing mortgage on your home and that you have reached a certain age, for example 60.
Changing your mortgage
Find out about changing your mortgage, including switching mortgages, extending the term, paying extra off your mortgage, trading up or trading down, switching from a subprime mortgage, consolidating debts, mortgage top-up and payment breaks.
Mortgage arrears
Being in arrears on your mortgage means that you have missed some or all of your mortgage repayment. If you can’t meet your mortgage repayments, or you’re worried you might fall behind, you should contact your lender as soon as possible as missing a mortgage repayment could have a negative effect on your credit rating.
State supports for first time buyers
As a first time buyer, you can avail of many supports. These include the first home scheme, help to buy and a local authority home loan. You may be eligible to apply, depending on your situation.
Mortgage protection insurance
Mortgage protection insurance is a life insurance policy that pays off your mortgage if you or your partner die during the term of the mortgage.
