Specialised mortgages are available to cater to your needs if you don’t fit the standard borrower profile or are purchasing an unconventional property. There is a large variety of mortgages available to accommodate various situations.
This article will explore mortgage options specifically created for individuals who may not qualify for a typical mortgage.
What's Included?
Holiday Let mortgages
If you plan to rent a holiday home, you should get a Holiday Let mortgage instead of a regular Buy to Let mortgage. The reason is that holiday homes are usually rented out for shorter periods, which makes lenders consider them riskier than traditional Buy to Let properties that are rented out for more extended periods, usually months or years.
If you plan to purchase a vacation home you intend to rent out, lenders will likely request a significant down payment, usually equivalent to 25% of the property’s value. Additionally, you must be capable of showing that you can manage to pay for the mortgage when the home isn’t being rented.
New build
Purchasing a newly constructed property is an excellent method of stepping onto or climbing the property ladder since it provides you with greater design freedom and fewer structural issues than an older or historic home. Additionally, new homes typically have a warranty in case of any problems.
Some lenders may not provide loans for new properties, especially newly built flats. Even if they do, there may be restrictions on the loan amount to the property’s value. As a result, if you plan to purchase a new build property, ensure you can obtain the necessary mortgage before making any commitments.
Shared Ownership
Shared Ownership mortgages can help you purchase a home even if you can’t afford the total price. You buy a portion of the property, usually between 25% and 75%, while a housing association owns the remainder. You pay rent on the housing association’s share but can increase your ownership by purchasing additional shares over time through “staircasing.”
Green mortgages
Borrowers who improve their home’s energy rating by installing measures like double-glazing or cavity wall insulation can receive discounted mortgage rates through green mortgages.
Homeowners can lower their heating bills and monthly mortgage payments by selecting a green mortgage. However, they must complete energy efficiency improvement works within a few months of the mortgage completion date to qualify for the discount. Typically, improving the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of the property by at least one band is a requirement to be eligible for the discount. There are various green mortgage options available.
Mortgages for Credit-Impaired Borrowers
If you have had trouble handling your debts, it might be difficult for you to get a regular mortgage deal. Situations such as not paying your loans on time, having County Court Judgements (CCJs), or bankruptcy may lead to homebuyers being rejected for a mortgage.
Mortgage providers categorize borrowers in such positions as more likely to default on their mortgages. Nevertheless, some specific lenders could be willing to assist.
If you’ve had trouble with debts and want to apply for a mortgage, you’ll likely need to provide a larger deposit than usual. Lenders may limit the amount they lend you based on your credit history, and you’ll likely face higher mortgage rates than those with good credit.
Self-build
A self-build mortgage is designed for individuals who need financial support to construct their property or renovate an existing one. Typically, the funds are released in portions as the project advances, and the mortgage provider will assess the progress at each stage. Depending on the terms, the money could be released before or after completion of each stage.
Some new build deals require your land to build on, while others provide financing for the land and construction. Because building your own home is risky, it’s crucial to have a detailed budget and steady cash flow before starting a project and securing financing.
Self Certification
In the past, self-employed individuals could apply for self-certification mortgages that allowed them to state their income without needing to verify. This option is no longer available.
In recent years, the rules for getting a mortgage have become stricter. As a result, self-certification mortgages are no longer available. If you’re self-employed and want to apply for a mortgage, you must show evidence of your earnings and expenses. Usually, lenders will require you to provide at least two to three years’ worth of accounts before they consider offering you a mortgage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a specialist mortgage?
A specialist mortgage is a type of mortgage designed for people who may not be eligible for standard mortgages. Specialist mortgages can include holiday let mortgages, self-build mortgages, and buy-to-let mortgages.
2. Who can apply for a specialist mortgage?
Anyone can apply for a specialist mortgage, but they are typically designed for people who don’t meet the eligibility criteria for standard mortgages.
3. What types of specialist mortgages are available?
Specialist mortgages can include holiday let mortgages, self-build mortgages, and buy-to-let mortgages.
4. How do specialist mortgages differ from standard mortgages?
Specialist mortgages can be more expensive than standard mortgages because they are considered higher risk by lenders.
5. What are the eligibility criteria for specialist mortgages?
The eligibility criteria for specialist mortgages can vary depending on the type of mortgage. For example, the eligibility criteria for a buy-to-let mortgage may be different from the eligibility criteria for a self-build mortgage.
6. How much can I borrow with a specialist mortgage?
The amount you can borrow with a specialist mortgage will depend on your individual circumstances and the type of mortgage you are applying for.
7. What are the interest rates for specialist mortgages?
The interest rates for specialist mortgages can vary depending on the type of mortgage and your individual circumstances.
8. How long does it take to get a specialist mortgage?
The time it takes to get a specialist mortgage can vary depending on the lender and your individual circumstances.
9. What documents do I need to apply for a specialist mortgage?
The documents you need to apply for a specialist mortgage can vary depending on the lender and the type of mortgage you are applying for.
10. How do I find the best specialist mortgage for me?
You can find the best specialist mortgage for you by comparing different lenders and their products. You may also want to consider working with a mortgage broker who can help you find the right product for your needs.
References:
Money advice service: https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/mortgages-how-to-get-the-best-deal
Money Saving Expert: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/mortgages/best-mortgages-cashback
Compare The Market: https://www.comparethemarket.com/mortgages
Expatica: https://www.expatica.com/uk/housing/buying/your-guide-to-uk-mortgages-747470
