If you’re looking to buy your council house under the Right to Buy scheme, finding the right mortgage broker can make a world of difference. With the right support, you can secure a mortgage that works for your situation—without unnecessary stress or delays.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in a mortgage broker near you, how to avoid common pitfalls, and where to begin your search in the UK.
What is Right to Buy?
The Right to Buy scheme gives eligible council and housing association tenants in England the opportunity to buy their home at a discount. The amount you can save depends on how long you’ve lived in the property, its value, and other factors.
While the discount can be generous, arranging a mortgage for a Right to Buy purchase isn’t always straightforward. That’s why it’s important to find a broker who understands the scheme and the lenders that support it.
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Why You Need a Specialist Mortgage Broker
Not every mortgage adviser will be experienced with Right to Buy. A general broker might miss out on key opportunities—or even give poor advice that slows things down. That’s why you need someone who:
- Knows how the Right to Buy process works
- Has access to lenders who accept Right to Buy applications
- Can explain things in plain English
- Is familiar with local property markets
- Understands how to deal with council paperwork
Working with a specialist could help you find better mortgage deals, avoid delays, and make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
What to Look For in a Right to Buy Mortgage Broker
Here are a few signs you’re speaking to someone who can truly help:
Experience with Right to Buy
Ask how many Right to Buy cases they’ve handled. A good broker should be able to talk through the scheme confidently and tell you what to expect.
Whole-of-Market Access
Ideally, you want a broker who isn’t tied to just one or two lenders. Someone with whole-of-market access can compare deals from across the mortgage market, including lenders who understand Right to Buy.
FCA Authorisation
Make sure they’re authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). You can check their registration on the FCA website.
Clear Fee Structure
Some brokers charge a flat fee, others work on commission. Either way, they should be upfront and transparent about how they’re paid.
Good Local Knowledge
If they’ve worked with properties in your area before, they may already know how the local council handles Right to Buy applications, which can save time.
Real Reviews
Check their online reviews—not just star ratings, but real customer stories. Look out for mentions of successful Right to Buy cases.
Where to Find the Right Broker Near You
Local recommendations: Ask neighbours or friends who’ve bought their council home.
Specialist mortgage firms: Some brokers focus entirely on Right to Buy or similar schemes.
Online directories: Sites like Unbiased, VouchedFor or Google Maps can help you find FCA-authorised mortgage advisers near you.
Questions to Ask Before You Decide
Before you go ahead, speak to a few brokers and ask:
- Have you helped other Right to Buy buyers recently?
- Which lenders do you work with?
- What are your fees and how are they paid?
- How long does the process usually take?
What documents will I need?
A trustworthy broker won’t rush you into anything. They’ll take time to understand your situation, explain your options, and guide you through each step.
Choosing the Right Broker Makes All the Difference
Buying your home through Right to Buy is a major milestone—but it can be a bit daunting without the right guidance. A good mortgage broker won’t just find you a deal; they’ll help you feel confident and in control from day one.
So take your time, do your research, and make sure the person advising you genuinely understands Right to Buy mortgages. With the right help, your dream of owning your home could be closer than you think.
FAQs
A broker suited for Right to Buy should have experience dealing with discounted property values, council paperwork, and lenders who accept applications based on scheme-specific criteria. It’s not just about finding any mortgage—it’s about navigating a unique process efficiently.
Yes, and it’s often a good idea. A local broker near you may already understand how your council operates, the timelines involved, and any common hurdles in your area—whether you’re in Birmingham, Leeds, or a London borough.
Yes, some brokers specialise in government-backed schemes like Right to Buy, Shared Ownership, and Help to Buy. These advisers tend to know which lenders are most flexible, even if your income or credit history isn’t perfect.
You can search for the broker’s name or firm on the Financial Services Register at register.fca.org.uk. Every authorised broker will have a unique reference number and status shown clearly.
Not necessarily. Some brokers charge a fixed fee, others get paid by the lender. Right to Buy cases might take extra paperwork, but costs vary. Always ask for a full breakdown of any fees up front.
Yes, some online brokers are well-equipped to handle Right to Buy, especially those with dedicated teams or tools for council house purchases. Just make sure they’re experienced in this specific scheme and not offering generic advice.
No, it’s not legally required—but having a broker on your side often helps speed things up and avoid mistakes, especially if it’s your first time buying a home or you’re unsure which lenders support Right to Buy.
Several UK lenders support Right to Buy mortgages, including some high street banks and building societies. However, availability changes often and not all deals are advertised online, so a broker can help access lesser-known options.
Timescales vary depending on your council’s processing speed and the lender, but a good broker can help move things along by ensuring your paperwork is spot-on and your application is submitted correctly first time.
Yes. A broker can help you find a mortgage to cover the remaining amount after the discount is applied. They’ll also assess whether your income, deposit (if any), and credit score meet the lender’s criteria.
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