What To Ask Yourself
We've come up with the must-ask questions that you should put to your lender, your estate agent, your removals company, your surveyor, your solicitor and yourself. Don't move home until you've got all the answers right just for you.
- Is this the right time to move?
- What am I gaining by moving now?
- Am I looking in an area on the up that's still going to be right for me in five years time?
- What are my motives for moving - am I looking for a home or somewhere to make a profit from, or both?
- Does my new house have enough storage space or will we have to invest in providing lots more?
- How much will the improvements cost that I have in mind and will they boost the house's value?
- If house prices dived while I was living there, would I be happy to sit things out there long-term?
- Am I prepared for all the work and stress, plus financial layout involved in a renovation project?
- How much can I borrow?
- How much should I borrow?
- How much will it all cost?
- How do I find the right mortgage?
- Do I need to get mortgage advice?
- Should I get an independent financial adviser to overhaul my finances first?
- What range of mortgage products is on offer? Is it just from one provider?
- How is the mortgage advisor paid?
- How do I decide between the deals/incentives on offer?
- How long will it take to get a mortgage approved?
- What information will I need for a mortgage application (proof of income, utility bills, etc)?
- What mortgage costs, stamp duty, solicitor fees will I incur?
- What happens when any special mortgage deal I take out, such as a fixed or capped rate, comes to an end?
- Is the mortgage portable? i.e. can I take it with me when I next move house
- Does the mortgage have any early redemption/repayment penalties?