Absolutely Mortgages

Directions Website Contact the business

Absolutely Mortgages Mortgage Advice and Insurance Services Absolutely Mortgages is a small family run business based in Epsom.

We provide Mortgage advice to people from all over the country and have access to the majority of lenders on the market. We deal with first time buyers, home movers, remortgages and Buy to Lets. We can also provide competitive quotes for General Insurance, Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover and Mortgage Payment Protection Insurance. Further information and reviews on our Consultants can be found by following these links:

https://www.vouchedfor.co.uk/mortgage-advisor/epsom/7410-ciara-duffy

https://www.vouchedfor.co.uk/mortgage-advisor/epsom/5952-sean-duffy

https://www.unbiased.co.uk/profile/mortgage-adviser/absolutely-mortgages-479005

🏠 Thinking of Buying Your First Flat? Here’s What You Need to KnowIf you’re a first-time buyer, there’s good news. The n...
30/09/2026

🏠 Thinking of Buying Your First Flat? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re a first-time buyer, there’s good news. The number of flats coming onto the market has increased significantly as many landlords continue to sell their rental properties in response to changes in legislation, higher costs and increased regulation.

This means more choice for first-time buyers, and in many areas, flats represent some of the best value properties currently available.

However, not every flat is viewed in the same way by mortgage lenders, so it’s important to understand what could affect your mortgage before you make an offer.

🔑 What Could Affect Your Mortgage?

While one lender may be happy to lend on a property, another may decline it altogether. Some of the key factors lenders consider include:

📜 Lease length – The longer the lease, the better. Many lenders become cautious once a lease falls below around 85 years, and some may require it to be extended before they’ll lend.
💷 Service charges & ground rent – High annual charges can affect affordability and the amount you’re able to borrow.
📍 Location – Flats above restaurants, takeaways, pubs or other commercial premises can sometimes be more difficult to mortgage due to factors such as noise, smells and trading hours.
🏢 Ex-local authority properties – These can still offer excellent value, but some lenders have stricter criteria depending on factors such as construction, building height and the proportion of privately owned flats.
🏗️ New-build flats – Some lenders require larger deposits on new-build apartments, often between 10% and 20%, although more flexible options may be available depending on your circumstances.
🧱 Building construction – Certain non-standard construction types, cladding issues or ongoing building safety works can limit the choice of lenders.

💡 Why Mortgage Advice Matters

Finding your dream flat is only part of the journey.

Before you commit to a purchase, it’s worth speaking to a mortgage broker who can check whether your chosen property is likely to meet lender criteria.

Getting advice early could help you:

✅ Avoid looking at properties that may be difficult to mortgage
✅ Understand how much you could potentially borrow
✅ Save time and avoid unnecessary disappointment
✅ Identify lenders that may be more suited to your circumstances

🤝 How Absolutely Mortgages Can Help

As independent mortgage brokers, we have access to a comprehensive range of lenders, including those with more flexible criteria for flats.

Whether you’re buying your very first home or simply want to understand how much you could borrow, we’ll guide you through the process, explain your options in plain English and help you find a mortgage that’s suitable for your circumstances.

🏡 Ready to Take Your First Step onto the Property Ladder?

Contact Absolutely Mortgages today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

📞 020 8393 9222
📧 [email protected]

Is your fixed-rate mortgage ending soon? Now is the time to review your options.Although the Bank of England recently ch...
05/08/2026

Is your fixed-rate mortgage ending soon? Now is the time to review your options.

Although the Bank of England recently chose to keep interest rates unchanged, the mortgage market has continued to move. In recent weeks, some lenders have increased their fixed-rate mortgage pricing despite the base rate remaining the same, proving that mortgage rates don't always follow Bank of England decisions.

If your fixed-rate mortgage is due to end within the next four months, now is the ideal time to review your options. We can help you decide whether it's best to stay with your current lender and secure a new deal (known as a product switch) or remortgage to another lender offering a more suitable rate or product.

If you don't arrange a new mortgage before your current deal expires, your mortgage will automatically move onto your lender's Standard Variable Rate (SVR), which is typically much higher than fixed-rate deals. Many homeowners end up paying significantly more than they need to simply because they leave it too late.

Remortgaging can also be an opportunity to make your mortgage work better for your circumstances. Whether you're looking to release equity for home improvements, consolidate borrowing, adjust your mortgage term, or switch between repayment and interest-only, reviewing your options could save you money and help you achieve your financial goals.

As experienced mortgage brokers with access to a comprehensive range of lenders, we can compare the market, explain your options clearly, and help you secure the most suitable deal for your circumstances.

Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation mortgage review.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

Buying your first home may be more achievable than you think.Many people assume they need a large deposit to get onto th...
06/07/2026

Buying your first home may be more achievable than you think.

Many people assume they need a large deposit to get onto the property ladder, but several mortgage lenders now offer products specifically designed to help first-time buyers.

Here are some of the options currently available:

Low Deposit Mortgages
Several lenders now offer mortgages with deposits as low as 5%, and some have introduced products requiring as little as £5,000.
Featured lenders include:
• Nationwide Building Society – Helping Hand mortgage, allowing eligible buyers to borrow up to six times their income.
• Halifax – First-time buyer mortgages, including Income Boost and selected low-deposit products.
• Lloyds Bank – £5,000 Deposit Mortgage for eligible buyers.
• Santander – My First Mortgage with up to 98% loan-to-value and cashback on selected products.
• Barclays – Family Springboard and Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor options, ideal where family members are able to help.
• Skipton Building Society – Track Record Mortgage, designed for renters with a strong history of paying rent, with no deposit required for eligible applicants.
• HSBC UK – Competitive 90–95% loan-to-value mortgages.
• NatWest – A range of 95% mortgages and family-supported options.
• Virgin Money – Cashback available on selected first-time buyer mortgages.
• Yorkshire Building Society – Low-deposit mortgages, including products requiring a £5,000 deposit.

Which option is right for you?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all mortgage. The best lender depends on your income, deposit, credit history and personal circumstances.

As an independent mortgage adviser, we can compare products from a wide range of lenders to help you find the mortgage that's right for you and explain any government schemes you may also be eligible for.

If you're thinking about buying your first home in the next 6–12 months or you'd simply like to know how much you could borrow get in touch for a free, no-obligation chat.

Your first home could be closer than you think.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

Buying a Flat and Mortgages: What You Need to KnowBuying a flat can be a fantastic way to get on the property ladder or ...
04/06/2026

Buying a Flat and Mortgages: What You Need to Know

Buying a flat can be a fantastic way to get on the property ladder or downsize, but there are some important considerations—especially when it comes to mortgages.

If you are considering purchasing a flat, keep these factors in mind:
1. Commercial premises nearby: Flats above or near food outlets, bars, or other commercial premises may be problematic.
2. Ex-local authority flats: Lenders may require a larger deposit, or in some cases may not lend, depending on construction and block size.
3. New build flats: Often require deposits between 15% and 25% of the property value.
4. Lease length: All leasehold flats have a lease, and generally the longer the lease, the better. Flats with less than 85 years may be rejected by some lenders.
5. If the ground rent rises above the Retail Price Index or a specific cap this may also threaten mortgage eligibility.

These are just a few examples of the niche criteria different lenders may have. Its important that you seek professional advice to help you navigate these requirements before committing to a purchase.

As an independent broker, we have access to a wide range of lenders and can help you find the right mortgage for your situation. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving home, we can guide you through the process, assess your options, and ensure you make an informed decision.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

A surprisingly high number of people who apply for mortgages don't protect them. No-one likes to think about dying or ge...
13/05/2026

A surprisingly high number of people who apply for mortgages don't protect them. No-one likes to think about dying or getting seriously ill but if it were to happen to you, the monthly mortgage payment will still have to be made. A simple policy could offer some comfort and reassurance to both yourself and loved ones.

Ask yourself the following questions;

1) If you have a joint mortgage and you are the main bread winner, will your partner be able to pay the monthly mortgage commitments if the worst was to happen?

2) Have you considered how they will manage with all the additional household costs; such as food, utilities, or the cost of raising children?

3) If you were to be taken seriously ill during the term of your mortgage and had to take a long-time off work for treatment and recovery, will you be able to manage financially?

4) How long will your employer help you for, if at all?

5) What support can you get from your wider family or the state?

Many people think that mortgage protection insurance such as life cover, serious or critical illness is too costly. If you are in reasonably good health and a non-smoker, premiums are a lot lower than you think. Insurers accept most applications, even for people who have underlying health issues or who have been seriously ill in the past. And for those who might be sceptical about mortgage protection insurance - 98% of claims are successful.

We now have a preferred supplier for all our Mortgage Protection Insurance. Our new partner, Protection Matters, is on hand for all our clients to advise on Life Cover, Critical Illness and Income protection requirements.

Protection Matters will ensure that you have the right cover that is best suited for your circumstances. They take the time to understand your unique needs and provide tailored advice and solutions to protect you in the right way at the right price.

Protection Matters have access to an excellent panel of providers and a wide range of knowledge and experience in helping to provide your family with the cover it deserves. If you would like to discuss this further, please get in touch and we will refer over to the team.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]



Mortgages for the self-employed - what you need to know.Although lending criteria for self-employed people has eased up ...
17/02/2026

Mortgages for the self-employed - what you need to know.

Although lending criteria for self-employed people has eased up since the Covid pandemic, mortgage applications will still undergo detailed underwriting checks. With more than 4 million + people in the UK now self-employed and lender requirements continuing to evolve, there has never been a better time for self-employed borrowers to work with a mortgage broker.

Lenders take different approaches when assessing self-employed income, depending on whether you are a Sole Trader, Partner, or Director of a Limited Company (holding more than a 20% share). Most lenders require at least two years of trading history along with two years of tax calculations or SA302s and/or two years of company accounts. A small number of lenders will consider just one year of accounts. Many will also request up-to-date trading information such as business bank statements or an accountant’s letter to build a clear picture of your current financial position.

As an experienced mortgage broker with a strong overview of the market and a proven track record of supporting self-employed applicants, we can guide you through the most suitable options before you commit to moving. Contact us for a free consultation.

Speaking to a mortgage broker first is always recommended. At Absolutely Mortgages, we have extensive knowledge of the m...
07/01/2026

Speaking to a mortgage broker first is always recommended. At Absolutely Mortgages, we have extensive knowledge of the mortgage market and can guide first-time buyers through what lenders expect and how to improve the chances of approval. This consultation is free, and many clients find it extremely useful.

If you are a first-time buyer with a 5–10% deposit, the following steps can help you secure approval:

• Ensure you are registered on the electoral roll at your current address. If a lender cannot verify this, it may affect their decision.
• Review your most recent credit report. Reports that cover all credit reference agencies—such as those provided by checkmyfile—are the most comprehensive. Your broker can review this with you and highlight anything that may cause concern.
• Sensible use of a credit card can demonstrate good financial management, but avoid having it at or near its limit, as this will negatively affect your credit score.
• Keep all payments up to date, including overdrafts, mobile phone bills, and utilities. Even one late payment can lead to a declined application.
• Be prepared to show proof of your deposit. If it comes from savings, lenders will want to see a steady build-up of funds. Any large, unexplained deposits will need clarification. Gifted deposits from family are usually acceptable, including those from overseas, but confirm this with your broker.
• If you receive additional income such as bonuses, commission, overtime, or allowances, these may be used to increase your borrowing capacity. Each lender has different rules on what they accept, so you will need guidance from your broker.

These steps can significantly strengthen your application and improve your chances of securing a mortgage as a first-time buyer.

To explore mortgage options, contact us to discuss your requirements.
020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

We live in a time where ethical awareness is higher than ever. People are more socially conscious, more mindful of how t...
05/12/2025

We live in a time where ethical awareness is higher than ever. People are more socially conscious, more mindful of how they spend their money, and more selective about the organisations they support. As a result, many are choosing to make financial decisions that align with their values.

Ethical banks operate with social and environmental responsibility at the forefront. They carefully consider where their money is invested, avoiding industries that harm the environment or engage in practices that are not in society’s best interests. Their choices reflect a commitment to positive impact and transparency.

But does this apply to mortgage lending and home buying?

In today’s economic climate, ethical financial decisions matter. Choosing a mortgage from an ethical lender ensures your money does not support fossil fuels, human rights abuses, harmful lobbying, or other practices you may object to. In doing so, you contribute to the transition toward a more sustainable and responsible financial system.

How Absolutely Mortgages can help

An independent mortgage broker like Absolutely Mortgages is well placed to help home buyers find ethical mortgage options. Our independent status gives us access to a wide range of products across the market, including exclusive deals. We have the expertise to identify lenders committed to social and environmental responsibility, giving you the opportunity to secure a mortgage that aligns with your values.

To explore ethical mortgage options, contact us to discuss your requirements.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

If your fixed-rate mortgage is due to end within the next four months, contact us so we can help you decide whether to s...
17/11/2025

If your fixed-rate mortgage is due to end within the next four months, contact us so we can help you decide whether to stay with your current lender and secure a new deal (product switch) or remortgage to another lender offering more competitive rates.

If you don't secure a new rate before your current deal expires, your mortgage will move onto the lender’s standard variable rate, which is usually much higher. Many homeowners allow this to happen and end up paying far more than necessary.

Remortgaging may be the better option if you want to restructure your mortgage, such as releasing funds for home improvements or investment, changing your mortgage term, or switching between interest-only and repayment.

As an experienced mortgage broker with a comprehensive view of the market, we can guide you toward the most suitable options. Get in touch for a free consultation.

020 8393 9222 | [email protected]

As you are now aware, the Bank of England has held the base rate at 4%. Although, some people were expecting it to drop,...
07/11/2025

As you are now aware, the Bank of England has held the base rate at 4%. Although, some people were expecting it to drop, several lenders have already reduced rates over the last week.

If your rate is now due for review and you are eligible to do so, I would encourage you to secure the new rate before the Autumn Statement - 26th November. We live in unpredictable times and whatever decision is made could result in a negative market reaction. Consequently the mortgage market might put rates back up again as a result.

Tying in to a new deal now protects you from any unforeseen rate increases. If time allows and rates reduce later, we can always re-switch you to the better deal before the new rate starts.

If you want to discuss this or any other mortgage issues, please get in touch.

Address

68 Cheam Road
Epsom
KT171QF

Opening Hours

Monday 9:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 9:30am - 5:30pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Absolutely Mortgages posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Absolutely Mortgages:

Shortcuts

Share

Category