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Tom Garvie Mortgage Services

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United Kingdom
Hinckley
Tom Garvie Mortgage Services

We offer whole of market mortgage advice with access to thousands of mortgage schemes, many of which are not available direct with high-street lenders.

Providing you with a much broader choice of mortgage products tailored to your personal circumstances.

03/06/2026

Take a Look at Our Fantastic Review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nothing means more to us than happy clients, and we are incredibly grateful for this wonderful feedback from Jeremy:

"Tom has been dealing with my mortgage for many years. As always the whole experience has been simple and communication superb. I can’t recommend highly enough and look forward to our continuing relationship."

Thank you, Jeremy, for your kind words and continued trust. It has been a pleasure helping you over the years, and we look forward to continuing to support you with your mortgage needs in the future.

Helping our clients make the mortgage process simple, stress free, and straightforward is always our goal. Reviews like this mean the world to us. 🙌

If you are looking for expert mortgage advice from a team that puts communication and customer service first, we would love to help.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

27/05/2026

Key Questions to Ask Your Estate Agent

Speaking to an estate agent is a key part of the home buying process, but knowing the right questions to ask can help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises later on. Here are some important ones to keep in mind:

🏡 How long has the property been on the market?

If a property has been listed for a while, there may be room for negotiation or a reason it has not sold yet.

💷 Has the price been reduced?

This can give you an idea of the seller’s expectations and whether they may be open to offers.

📍 Is there a property chain?

Knowing whether the seller is in a chain can help you understand how quickly the purchase may move.

🔧 Has any work been carried out on the property?

It is helpful to know about extensions, renovations, or repairs, especially if building regulations or planning permission were required.

🧾 What are the running costs?

Ask about council tax, service charges, ground rent, and utility costs so you can budget properly.

🚗 What is included in the sale?

Fixtures, fittings, appliances, and garden items are not always included, so it is worth clarifying early.

🏠 Why is the seller moving?

This can give useful insight into how motivated they are and whether there may be flexibility on price or timescales.

📅 Have there been any other offers?

Knowing the level of interest can help you decide how quickly to act if you love the property.

Asking the right questions can help you buy with confidence and avoid costly surprises later in the process.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

22/05/2026

How Do Tracker Rate Mortgages Work?

A tracker mortgage is a type of mortgage where the interest rate moves in line with an external rate, usually the Bank of England base rate. This means your monthly payments can go up or down over time. Here’s how it works:

📈 Your Rate Tracks the Base Rate

With a tracker mortgage, your lender charges a set percentage above the Bank of England base rate.

For example: If the base rate is 4.5% and your tracker mortgage is base rate +1%, your mortgage rate would be 5.5%.

If the base rate goes up, your mortgage payments increase. If it goes down, your payments reduce.

💷 Potential Benefits

✅ You could benefit if interest rates fall
✅ Some tracker deals have lower starting rates than fixed mortgages
✅ Greater flexibility, with some products offering lower early repayment charges

⚠️ Things to Consider

Because the rate can change, your monthly payments are less predictable. If interest rates rise, your mortgage could become more expensive, so it is important to make sure your budget has some breathing room.

📅 How Long Do Tracker Deals Last?

Some tracker mortgages are available for a fixed introductory period, such as 2 or 5 years, before moving onto the lender’s standard variable rate. Others are lifetime trackers that follow the base rate for the full mortgage term.

🏡 Who Might a Tracker Mortgage Suit?

A tracker mortgage may be suitable if you:

- Are comfortable with payments changing month to month
- Want to benefit if rates fall
- Prefer flexibility over fixed payment certainty

If you prefer stable monthly payments and easier budgeting, a fixed rate may be a better option.

Choosing the right mortgage depends on your financial situation and attitude to risk, which is why getting professional advice can be so valuable.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

14/05/2026

How Long Does a Mortgage Application Take?

One of the most common questions homebuyers ask is how long a mortgage application takes. While every case is different, here is a general guide to what you can expect.

📄 Agreement in Principle

Before the full application, you can usually get an Agreement in Principle within a few minutes to 24 hours, depending on the lender. This gives you an idea of how much you may be able to borrow.

📝 Submitting the Full Application

Once you have found a property and submitted all your documents, the full application can usually be completed within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on how quickly everything is provided.

🔍 Lender Assessment

The lender will then review your income, outgoings, credit history, and affordability. They will also arrange a property valuation. This stage usually takes 1 to 3 weeks.

🏠 Mortgage Offer Issued

If everything goes smoothly, a formal mortgage offer is often issued within 2 to 4 weeks from submitting your full application. Some straightforward applications can be quicker, while more complex cases may take longer.

⚠️ What Can Cause Delays?

- Missing or unclear documents
- Self employed or complex income cases
- Property valuation issues
- High lender demand
- Additional underwriting checks

💡 How to Speed Things Up

Having all your documents ready and working with an experienced mortgage advisor can help avoid unnecessary delays and keep your application moving smoothly.

While timelines vary, being prepared can make a big difference and help you get to the finish line faster.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

06/05/2026

Can Decorating Increase Your Property Value? 🎨🏡

Yes, decorating can increase your property value and in many cases it is one of the simplest and most cost effective ways to do so. The key is to focus on improvements that appeal to the widest range of buyers.

🎨 First Impressions Matter

Fresh paint, clean finishes, and a well presented home can make a huge difference. Buyers often decide how they feel about a property within minutes, so a tidy and modern look can instantly boost appeal.

💷 Simple Updates Can Add Value

You do not always need a full renovation. Small changes such as repainting walls, updating light fittings, or replacing worn carpets can make a property feel newer and more desirable.

📊 Neutral Colours Work Best

Keeping your décor neutral helps buyers imagine themselves living in the space. Bold or very personal styles can sometimes put buyers off or reduce perceived value.

🏠 Focus on Key Areas

Kitchens and bathrooms tend to have the biggest impact on value. Even minor upgrades like new cupboard handles, taps, or regrouting tiles can make a noticeable difference.

🧼 Clean and Declutter

A well presented home looks bigger, brighter, and more valuable. Decluttering and deep cleaning can be just as important as decorating.

⚠️ Do Not Overdo It

It is important not to overspend on decorating beyond what the property is worth. Aim for improvements that offer a good return rather than high end finishes that may not add equal value.

Done right, decorating can help you sell faster and potentially achieve a higher price. It is all about creating a space that feels fresh, well cared for, and move in ready.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

29/04/2026

Take a look at our fantastic review!

Used these for my remortgage again recently, Tom Fuller was great as usual and got s a great deal, very pleased with the service, takes all the stress away! And special mention for Sally who was always extremely helpful. - Conor B.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help with your first home!

"

15/04/2026

How Much Would My Monthly Mortgage Payments Be?

One of the first things most buyers want to know is how much their monthly mortgage payments will be. The answer depends on a few key factors, but here’s how it works:

💷 1. Loan Amount

The more you borrow, the higher your monthly payments will be. Your loan amount is the property price minus your deposit.

📊 2. Interest Rate

Your mortgage rate has a big impact on your repayments. Even a small difference in rate can significantly change your monthly cost.

📅 3. Mortgage Term

This is how long you repay the mortgage over, typically 25 to 35 years.
- A longer term means lower monthly payments
- A shorter term means higher payments but less interest overall

🏦 4. Type of Mortgage

- Repayment mortgage: You pay off both the loan and interest each month
- Interest only mortgage: You only pay the interest, not the loan itself

📈 Example

If you borrowed £200,000 over 25 years at 5 percent interest, your monthly payments would be roughly £1,170 per month on a repayment mortgage.

🧮 Use a Mortgage Calculator

The easiest way to get an estimate is by using a mortgage affordability or repayment calculator, like the one on our website. This gives you a quick idea based on your own figures.

💡 Top Tip

Always leave room in your budget for other costs such as bills, insurance, and maintenance. Just because you can borrow a certain amount does not mean you should stretch to it.

Your exact monthly payment will depend on your personal circumstances, but getting an early estimate helps you plan with confidence.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

08/04/2026

What Documents Do I Need for a Mortgage Application?

Getting your documents ready early can speed up your mortgage application and reduce delays. While requirements can vary slightly between lenders, here are the key documents you will usually need:

📄 Proof of Identity

- Valid passport or driving licence

🏠 Proof of Address

- Recent utility bill
- Council tax bill or bank statement

💷 Proof of Income

For employed applicants:
- Last 3 months payslips
- Latest P60

For self employed applicants:
- Last 2 to 3 years tax returns (SA302)
- Corresponding tax year overviews

🏦 Bank Statements

- Usually the last 3 to 6 months
- Showing income, regular spending, and any commitments

💰 Proof of Deposit

- Savings account statements
- Evidence of gifted deposit if applicable
- Sale of property if you are moving home

📊 Credit Commitments

- Details of loans, credit cards, or finance agreements
- Some lenders may request statements

📑 Property Details

- Information about the property you are buying
- Estate agent details and purchase price

⚠️ Additional Documents (If Needed)

Depending on your situation, you may also need:
- Bonus or commission proof
- Proof of rental income
- Visa or residency documents

💡 Top Tip

Make sure all documents are up to date and clearly readable. Providing everything upfront helps avoid delays and keeps your application moving smoothly.

Being organised from the start can make the whole mortgage process faster and less stressful.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

01/04/2026

How Credit Utilisation Affects Your Credit Score

Credit utilisation is one of the most important factors in your credit score, yet many people are not aware of it. Simply put, it measures how much of your available credit you are using.

📊 What Is Credit Utilisation?

It is the percentage of your total credit limit that you are currently using. For example, if you have a £1,000 credit limit and a balance of £300, your utilisation is 30 percent.

💷 Why It Matters

Lenders use this to assess how reliant you are on credit. A high utilisation can signal financial pressure, while a lower percentage shows you are managing credit responsibly.

📉 What Is a Good Level?

- Under 30 percent is generally considered good
- Under 10 percent is even better and can help boost your score further
- Over 50 percent can start to negatively impact your score

📈 How It Impacts Your Mortgage

A lower credit utilisation can improve your credit score, which may help you:
- Access better mortgage deals
- Secure lower interest rates
- Increase your chances of approval

🧾 How to Improve Your Credit Utilisation

- Pay down your balances regularly
- Keep old credit accounts open to maintain a higher total limit
- Spread spending across multiple cards if needed
- Avoid maxing out your credit cards

💡 Top Tip

Even if you pay your balance in full each month, high utilisation during the billing cycle can still affect your score. Keeping balances low throughout the month can make a difference.

Managing your credit utilisation well is a simple but powerful way to strengthen your credit profile and improve your mortgage options.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

25/03/2026

How to Prepare for Buying Your First Home 🏡

Buying your first home is a big milestone, and the more prepared you are, the smoother the journey will be. Here are the key steps to help you get ready with confidence:

💷 1. Understand Your Budget

Start by working out what you can realistically afford. Consider your income, monthly expenses, and how much you can comfortably repay each month.

📄 2. Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

An Agreement in Principle gives you a clear idea of how much you can borrow and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. It also helps you narrow down your property search.

💰 3. Save for Your Deposit and Costs

You will usually need at least 5 percent of the property price as a deposit. Do not forget to budget for additional costs such as legal fees, surveys, and moving expenses.

📊 4. Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score can impact your mortgage options and interest rates. Make sure everything on your report is accurate and take steps to improve it if needed.

📍 5. Research Locations

Think about where you want to live and what matters most to you. Consider transport links, schools, local amenities, and future plans.

🔍 6. Start Your Property Search

Register with estate agents and set up alerts on property websites so you can act quickly when the right home comes up.

🤝 7. Speak to a Mortgage Advisor

Getting expert advice early can save you time, money, and stress. A mortgage advisor can guide you through the process and help you find the most suitable deal.

Preparation is key when buying your first home. Taking these steps early will put you in a strong position and help you move forward with confidence.

Contact us today & let’s see how we can help you with your mortgage!

Address

The Atkins Building
Hinckley
LE101QU

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 8pm
Tuesday	9am - 8pm
Wednesday	9am - 8pm
Thursday	9am - 8pm
Friday	9am - 8pm

Telephone

+442477717130

Website

http://tomgarviemortgages.co.uk/

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