How to Get the Best Remortgage Deals

The ideal time to start looking is about 3 to 6 months before your current mortgage deal ends. This gives you time to compare offers, apply, and switch without slipping onto your lender’s standard variable rate, which is usually higher.

Not necessarily, but a good mortgage broker can help you access deals that aren’t available directly to the public. They can also save you time by narrowing down the best options for your circumstances and guiding you through the application process.

It might be more difficult, as a lower property value means you own less equity. However, it’s still possible depending on how much you owe and the lender’s criteria. Some lenders specialise in higher loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages, though the rates may be higher.

Yes, some lenders offer fee-free remortgage packages that cover valuation and legal costs. However, these deals may come with slightly higher interest rates, so it’s important to work out which option saves you more over the full term.

This depends on your income, outgoings, credit history, and the value of your home. Lenders usually carry out affordability checks to ensure you can comfortably afford the repayments, especially if you’re looking to borrow extra money.

Applying for a remortgage can lead to a hard credit check, which may slightly lower your score temporarily. However, making regular mortgage payments on your new deal can have a positive impact over time.

Yes, you can remortgage with a different lender if they offer a better deal. Just be sure to factor in any early repayment charges or exit fees from your current lender when deciding whether to switch.

Typically, you’ll need proof of income (such as payslips or accounts if you’re self-employed), recent bank statements, ID documents, and details of your current mortgage.

Sometimes, but you need to weigh up the savings against any early repayment charges. If the savings on the new deal outweigh the penalties, it could still be worthwhile.

Maintain a good credit score, reduce debts where possible, and ensure your paperwork is in order. It also helps to regularly check your property’s value and review the market so you’re ready to act when good deals appear.

You can technically remortgage as often as you like, but most homeowners wait until near the end of their fixed-term deal to avoid early repayment charges. Some people remortgage every two to five years, depending on market conditions and personal needs.

Yes, though your options may be more limited. Some specialist lenders offer remortgage deals for people with poor credit, but you might face higher interest rates. It’s worth improving your credit score if you can before applying.


Usually, yes — but many lenders include free legal work as part of their remortgage package. If you’re borrowing more or changing property ownership at the same time, you may need to instruct your own solicitor.

Applying for a remortgage will involve a credit check, which can leave a small mark on your credit file. But as long as you manage your credit responsibly, the overall impact should be minimal.

It can be, as mortgage rates are usually lower than personal loans or credit cards. However, you’re shifting unsecured debt onto your home, which raises the stakes if you can’t repay. It’s wise to get financial advice before consolidating debts this way.

On average, the process takes four to eight weeks. Straightforward cases with the same lender (a “product transfer”) may complete faster, while switching to a new lender might take longer, especially if extra checks or valuations are needed.

Yes, but it could be harder to secure the best deals. Lenders work off your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, so if your property’s value has fallen, your LTV goes up — and you may lose access to the most competitive rates.

Not always. Some mortgage deals come with no arrangement fees, while others charge them but offer lower rates. It’s important to weigh up the total cost over the deal period, not just focus on whether there’s a fee.