Forge Financial Solutions

01/09/2026

There's nothing worse than finding your dream home only to realise you haven't arranged your finances.

Getting a mortgage agreed in principle first shows estate agents you're a serious buyer and gives you confidence about your budget.

It can also make your offer more attractive to sellers.

A little preparation before you start viewing properties can make the whole buying process much smoother.

Sometimes the first step isn't looking at houses—it's understanding what you can afford.

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Approved on 03/08/2026

28/08/2026

Your credit score matters, but it doesn't have to be perfect.

Many buyers assume one missed payment years ago means they'll never get approved.

That's simply not true.

Every lender has different criteria, and some are far more flexible than others.

If you're unsure where you stand, it's much better to ask before assuming the worst.

Don't let myths stop you from owning your first home.

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Approved on 03/08/2026

27/08/2026

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork
Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by
the Financial Conduct Authority
Approved on 24/03/2026

19/08/2026

How long does the house-buying process take?

On average, buying a home takes around 8-12 weeks after an offer has been accepted, but it can be quicker or take longer depending on the circumstances.

• Instructing solicitors and applying for your mortgage usually happens first.

• Property searches and surveys can take several weeks.
• Your mortgage lender will carry out checks and issue a formal mortgage offer.

• Once all legal work is complete, contracts are exchanged.

• Completion usually takes place a few days to a few weeks after exchange.

Every purchase is different, but being organised and responding quickly to requests can help keep things moving smoothly.

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Approved on 04/08/26

18/08/2026

Can I get a mortgage if I'm changing jobs?

Yes, it's often possible to get a mortgage when changing jobs, but it can depend on your circumstances.

• If you're moving to a new permanent job in the same industry, many lenders will consider your application.

• Some lenders may accept a signed employment contract before you've started the new role.

• If you're still in a probationary period, lender options may be more limited.

• Always let your mortgage adviser know about any planned job changes as early as possible.

📞 Every lender has different criteria, so getting advice before making a move can help you find the right mortgage options.

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Approved on 03/08/2026

17/08/2026

13/08/2026

Can gifted deposits be used?
Yes, many lenders accept gifted deposits from family members.
• A gifted deposit is money given to you towards your home purchase that doesn't need to be repaid.
• Parents are the most common source, but some lenders accept gifts from other family members.
• The person giving the gift will usually need to sign a declaration confirming it's a gift and not a loan.
• Lenders may ask for proof of where the money has come from.
• Different lenders have different rules, so it's important to check what's acceptable.
A gifted deposit can be a great way to boost your buying power and help you get onto the property ladder sooner.

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Approved on 03/08/2026

06/08/2026

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Approved on 24/03/2026

04/08/2026

Forge Financial Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Openwork Partnership a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Approved on 05/06/2026