Simon Rock - Mortgage and Protection Advisor

Simon Rock - Mortgage and Protection Advisor I am a self-employed whole of market mortgage and protection advisor with several years experience.

01/04/2026

🏃‍♂️ Introducing our latest mortgage innovation… the treadmill mortgage

Keep running… and keep your rate low 😅

We’re excited to launch a brand new product where your interest rate is linked directly to your daily step count.

Hit 10,000 steps? You might shave a bit off your rate.
Slow down? Well… let’s just say your payments might notice 👀

It’s the perfect way to combine fitness goals with financial planning — who said mortgages couldn’t be motivating?

Jokes aside, while this one might not be making it onto the lender panels anytime soon… today’s a good reminder that mortgage products can be complex, and not everything is always as it seems.

And while we can’t promise lower rates for extra steps, we can help you understand your options and plan ahead in a changing market.

Happy April Fools’ Day from all of us at Ellis-Ridings 😄

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

🏡 What Is a Mortgage Product Fee — And Is It Worth It?When comparing mortgage deals, you’ll often see something called a...
18/03/2026

🏡 What Is a Mortgage Product Fee — And Is It Worth It?
When comparing mortgage deals, you’ll often see something called a product fee (or arrangement fee). But what does it actually mean — and should you pay it? 🤔
A mortgage product fee is a one-off charge set by the lender to access a specific deal — typically anywhere from £0 to £2,000+.
Here’s what you need to know 👇
🔹 Why do lenders charge it?
Product fees often allow lenders to offer lower interest rates, so you might pay a fee upfront in exchange for cheaper monthly repayments.
🔹 High fee vs low rate
Deals with higher fees usually come with lower rates, while no-fee options tend to have higher rates. The right option depends on your loan size and plans.
🔹 How do you pay it?
You can either:
• Pay it upfront
• Add it to the mortgage – subject to LTV limits and affordability (but this means paying interest on it over time)
🔹 Is it worth it?
A lower rate might look attractive, but it’s important to weigh this up against the fee and your overall plans.
🤝 This is where a mortgage broker adds real value
It’s not just about finding the lowest rate — it’s about understanding what actually works best for you.
A broker will:
✔ Compare deals with and without fees
✔ Calculate what works best based on your loan and term
✔ Explain whether paying a fee actually benefits you
✔ Recommend a solution based on your circumstances and plans
Because the cheapest-looking deal isn’t always the most suitable.
From your initial enquiry to picking up the keys, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

🏡 How Long Before I Can Move In?You’ve had your offer accepted — exciting! 🎉But now comes the big question “How long unt...
17/03/2026

🏡 How Long Before I Can Move In?
You’ve had your offer accepted — exciting! 🎉
But now comes the big question “How long until I actually get the keys?”
It’s completely normal to feel impatient at this stage. Behind the scenes, there’s a lot going on, mortgage checks, legal work, searches, surveys, and enquiries between solicitors, and it can feel slow when you’re waiting for updates.
💡 Setting realistic expectations helps.
In the UK, moving in after your offer is accepted typically takes 12–16 weeks. Sometimes it can be quicker, but it can also take longer depending on your circumstances.
Every purchase is different chains, surveys, legal enquiries, or mortgage approvals can all affect the timeline.
Knowing what to expect from the start makes the process far less stressful.
From your initial enquiry to picking up the keys, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

🏡 Why Use a Mortgage Broker?When you’re arranging a mortgage, whether you’re buying your first home, moving, or remortga...
16/03/2026

🏡 Why Use a Mortgage Broker?
When you’re arranging a mortgage, whether you’re buying your first home, moving, or remortgaging, it’s easy to assume you should just go directly to your bank.
But a mortgage broker can offer much more than simply answering questions about mortgages.
Our role is to understand your circumstances, your goals, and your future plans so we can recommend a mortgage that genuinely suits your situation 👇
Here’s how a mortgage broker helps:
🔹 Access to more lenders
A whole-of-market broker can look across a wide range of lenders, including deals that may not be available directly to the public.
🔹 Advice tailored to you
Every lender has different criteria for income, deposits, self-employment, bonuses, and credit history. A broker helps identify the lenders most likely to suit your circumstances.
🔹 Guidance through the process
Mortgages involve paperwork, lender checks, valuations and legal work. A broker helps manage the process and keeps everything moving.
🔹 Support with complex situations
Whether you're self-employed, have variable income, a smaller deposit, or previous credit issues, knowing which lenders to approach can make a big difference.
🔹 Regulated advice
Mortgage advice in the UK is regulated by the FCA, meaning recommendations must be suitable and in your best interests.
💡 The key thing to remember:
A mortgage broker isn’t just there to provide information — we’re here to give advice and recommend the most suitable option based on your circumstances.
From your initial enquiry to picking up the keys, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

🏡 Why Getting an AIP Is So Important When Buying a HomeIf you're starting your house-buying journey, one of the smartest...
13/02/2026

🏡 Why Getting an AIP Is So Important When Buying a Home
If you're starting your house-buying journey, one of the smartest first steps you can take is getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP), sometimes called a Decision in Principle (DIP).
It’s not a guaranteed mortgage offer but it is a powerful tool 👇

Here’s why it matters:
🔹 Shows you’re a serious buyer
Estate agents and sellers see an AIP as proof that you’re financially prepared. In a competitive market, especially if you’re in a chain or bidding against others, that credibility makes a difference. Most estate agents will ask to see your AIP when you submit an offer.
🔹 Defines your real budget (and gives you confidence)
An AIP gives you a clearer idea of how much a lender is likely to offer, so you can focus on properties within reach. It also gives you confidence when viewing homes, knowing you’re looking at properties you can realistically afford.
🔹 Allows you to move quickly
If you find a property you love, having an AIP already in place means you’re ready to act straight away, which can be crucial in a fast-moving market.
🔹 Speeds things up later
Once your offer is accepted, some initial checks have already been done, which can help the full application move more smoothly.
🔹 Highlights issues early
If there are any credit or affordability concerns, it’s far better to discover them before you’ve fallen in love with a property.

⚠ A few important things to understand:
• An AIP usually lasts 30–90 days
• Most lenders use a soft credit check (always worth confirming)
• It is not a guarantee — a full application, document checks and valuation are still required
• If your circumstances change (job, income, new credit), your AIP could be affected
💡 When should you get one?
Ideally before you start viewing properties.
One of the most important parts of our role as whole-of-market brokers is understanding your situation and identifying which lender is the right fit. Since no two lenders assess applications in exactly the same way, getting that match right early on can save time, stress and potential setbacks.
An AIP isn’t just about a number. It’s about making sure you’re positioned correctly from day one.
From your initial enquiry to picking up the keys, we’re here to guide you every step of the way

⏰ How to Avoid Payment Shock if Your Fixed Rate Is Coming to an End in 2026If your fixed-rate mortgage is coming to an e...
10/02/2026

⏰ How to Avoid Payment Shock if Your Fixed Rate Is Coming to an End in 2026
If your fixed-rate mortgage is coming to an end, it’s worth understanding what happens next — and what your options are.
When a fixed-rate mortgage ends in the UK, it usually moves automatically onto the lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR). SVRs are typically much higher than fixed rates, which can lead to a noticeable increase in your monthly mortgage repayments — often referred to as “payment shock.”
That’s why many homeowners begin reviewing their mortgage 3–6 months before their deal ends.
A few things to keep in mind:
🔹 Doing nothing has a cost
Moving onto the SVR can mean paying significantly more each month, often without realising until the first higher payment leaves your account.
🔹 You don’t have to wait until the end date
Most lenders allow you to secure a new rate several months in advance, which can help with planning and reduce last-minute pressure.
🔹 You have more than one option
This might include switching to a new deal with your current lender or considering alternatives elsewhere, depending on your circumstances.
🔹 This is where professional advice helps
A mortgage broker can review your current deal, explain your options clearly, and help you understand how rates, fees, early repayment charges and future plans all fit together — not just which rate looks lowest.
💡 A simple rule of thumb:
If your fixed rate ends this year, it’s sensible to start looking at your options now, even if you don’t plan to make an immediate change.
Taking advice early can help you avoid surprises and make informed, confident decisions about what comes next.

🏡 What does a mortgage broker really do?A mortgage broker isn’t just there to answer questions and leave you to figure i...
09/02/2026

🏡 What does a mortgage broker really do?
A mortgage broker isn’t just there to answer questions and leave you to figure it out yourself.
Our role is to advise, not just inform — and there’s a big difference.

A good broker takes the time to understand:
• your current situation
• what you’re trying to achieve now
• and your future plans
Only then can we recommend a mortgage that actually suits you, not just one with a headline rate 👇
Here’s what a UK mortgage broker really does:
🔍 Assessment & Advice
We look at your income, outgoings, credit history and affordability — then advise on how much you can realistically borrow and which type of mortgage fits your plans.
📊 Whole-of-market research
We search across a wide range of lenders, including specialist and exclusive deals you won’t find by going direct to a bank.
📝 Application & process management
Yes, we handle the paperwork — but we also liaise with lenders, solicitors and estate agents to keep everything moving and resolve issues before they become problems.
🧠 Support for complex situations
Self-employed, low deposit, gifted funds, adverse credit or changing circumstances? This is where advice really matters.
⚖ Regulated advice you can trust
All recommendations are made under FCA regulations, meaning they must be suitable, justified and in your best interests.
✨ The takeaway:
A mortgage broker isn’t just there to help you choose — we’re here to advise, guide and recommend the right solution based on your life, not just today, but where you’re heading next.

🏡 Just Moved In? Here’s a helpful checklist!Getting the keys to your new home is exciting but a few smart first steps ca...
04/02/2026

🏡 Just Moved In? Here’s a helpful checklist!

Getting the keys to your new home is exciting but a few smart first steps can save you stress later 👇
1) Take photos of gas, electric and water meter readings (you don’t want to pay for someone else’s usage).
2) Check all windows and external doors lock properly, and consider changing the locks — you don’t know who may already have a key (neighbours, cleaners, dog walkers, relatives, etc.).
3) Find the main water stopcock, gas shut-off and fuse box.
4) Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms (and buy & install if there aren’t any!).
5) Unpack the essentials and build/make your bed — you’ll thank yourself later when you’re exhausted.
6) Do a deep clean before fully unpacking (kitchen and bathrooms first).

Once you’ve unpacked and feel a bit more settled, here are a few more things to tick off:
1) Introduce yourself to your neighbours (they may offer help or useful local tips).
2) Find out when bin day is via neighbours or the local council website — moving creates a lot of rubbish.
3) Make sure utilities, council tax and broadband are set up in your name.
4) Register on the electoral roll.
5) Update your address with banks, work, family and friends (redirecting post can really help).
6) Go for a walk to get your bearings, find local shops and explore the area.

✨ Top tip: If you’re planning to decorate or tackle small jobs, do it before the furniture arrives — it’s so much easier.

👀 Viewing a Property? Don’t Just Fall in Love — Inspect It!A viewing isn’t just about vibes and decor. It’s your chance ...
03/02/2026

👀 Viewing a Property? Don’t Just Fall in Love — Inspect It!
A viewing isn’t just about vibes and decor. It’s your chance to spot red flags before they become expensive surprises 👇
Here’s what to prioritise when you’re walking around a property:

Structural basics first: Look closely at the structure, check for cracks in the brickwork or render, scan the roof for any missing or slipped tiles, and see if there’s vegetation growing out of the gutters. Also note whether the gutters and fascia's look tired, damaged, or are showing signs of leaking.

Damp & mould: Check corners of rooms, ceilings, around windows and inside cupboards — especially in bathrooms and bedrooms.

Heating & Boiler: Does the boiler look old or new? Do the radiators look in good condition? Does the fireplace look in use? Are there any signs of soot? as it might need sweeping.

Windows & doors: Do they open and close smoothly, feel secure, and are all windows double-glazed?

Flooring: Does the floor bounce or feel uneven? Are carpets or wood flooring fitted properly, and are they in good condition?

Electrics & plumbing: Check the fuse box, light switches, sockets and look for exposed wiring or tired fittings. Test taps in the kitchen and bathrooms to see if the water pressure is adequate.

Space & layout: Will your furniture actually fit? Is there enough storage, or scope to improve the layout later?

Kitchen & bathrooms: Check sealant, grouting, extractor fans, and the condition of any integrated appliances.

Outside matters too: Parking availability, garden privacy, drainage, large nearby trees, and any signs of Japanese knotweed.

The area: Check parking rules, broadband speeds, mobile signal, traffic noise, and visit at different times of day.

For flats: Confirm lease length, service charge, ground rent, managing agent, and condition of communal areas.

💡 Pro tip: Always ask why the seller is moving, what the council tax band is, and whether there are any planned developments nearby.
A property can look perfect on the surface — but it’s what you don’t notice that usually costs the most. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your instincts.

🏠 Landlords did you know!With the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Act and wider tax changes, many landlords are now reviewin...
30/01/2026

🏠 Landlords did you know!
With the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Act and wider tax changes, many landlords are now reviewing whether to retain, restructure, or sell their properties or portfolios.
If rising costs, regulation, or long-term viability are causing concern, there may be an option you haven’t considered yet..

💡 Selling to your tenant via a Concessionary Purchase
Did you know you can sell your property directly to your existing tenant at a discounted price?
🔹 A small reduction (often 5% or more) can be treated as gifted equity
🔹 This can act as the tenant’s deposit, sometimes meaning little or no cash deposit needed
🔹 Rental income can continue right up to completion

✅ Why landlords consider this route:
• A known buyer already living in the property
• Quicker, simpler sale• No void periods or refurbishment costs
• Avoids the complexity of evictions or open-market sales
• In reality, many properties reduce by a similar amount if they sit unsold

👥 And for tenants:
• Opportunity to buy the home they already live in
• No need to save a large traditional deposit
• Stability and long-term security

⚠ Important points to note:
• Tenants usually need 12+ months’ residency
• The discount must be a genuine gift, not a loan
• Capital Gains Tax is still assessed on market value
• Full transparency with the lender is essential

This approach is becoming an increasingly popular exit strategy for landlords navigating a changing rental landscape.
If you’re weighing up your options and want to understand what’s possible before making a decision, we’re here to help guide you through it.
Information correct as of 30th Jan2026

🏡 Offer Accepted – What Happens Next?Congratulations! 🎉 Your offer’s been accepted now what? Here’s a step by step guide...
28/01/2026

🏡 Offer Accepted – What Happens Next?
Congratulations! 🎉 Your offer’s been accepted now what? Here’s a step by step guide:
1⃣ Instruct a solicitor – they handle the legal side. The estate agent will these details along with your ID, mortgage AIP & proof of deposit.
2⃣ Memorandum of Sale issued – confirms the agreed price & parties involved in the transaction.
3⃣ Property marked as sold – now officially off the market.
4⃣ Full mortgage application – turn that AIP into a mortgage offer!
5⃣ Get a survey – optional but super important. Spot hidden issues before it becomes legally yours.
6⃣ Legal checks & searches – your solicitor digs into contracts, property records & planning, before reporting back to you.
7⃣ Exchange contracts – pay your deposit, and it’s legally binding. You'll need your buildings and contents insurance at this point.
8⃣ Completion day – final funds transferred, keys in hand, move in! 🗝
⏳ Timeline: It usually takes 12–16 weeks from offer accepted to completion. Knowing this sets realistic expectations.
From your initial enquiry to picking up the keys, we’re here to help and guide you every step of the way.

Address

Newton Abbot

Telephone

+447551354857

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