Independent Mortgage Experts Ltd

24/08/2026

20/08/2026

Inflation has bounced up to 2.9% in July according to the Office of National Statistics, which is a jump up from 2.6% in June.

With inflation exceeding the governments target, there is a chance of a rate increase in September when the Bank of England meet.

So although we don’t know what the BOE will decide yet, an increase could affect overall mortgage rates.

Lenders don’t price fixed deals on today’s rates, instead they are priced against where lenders expect rates to go next. So inflation data can affect mortgage interest rates.

If you are looking to remortgage soon, lenders typically start repricing products before the BOE make a decision.

So my advice is not to wait and see what happens after September as it could mean missing out on deals beforehand.

If you’re moving home it’s a good idea to check your budget again after the BOE meet in September if it does change.

19/08/2026

Heads up to all the professional portfolio Landlords 📣📣

The new EPC rules come into force from the 1st October 2030 where the minimum rating will change from an E to a EPC rating C for all private domestic rental properties in the U.K.

Many landlords will be concerned about how this affects their overall portfolio. If this is you, I suggest to take a look at the allowable exemptions.

One of which is the Cost Cap Exemption which is £10,000 per rental property. If the costs incurred are up to this figure or over it, then you can apply for this exemption, then continue to let the property for 10 years.

Any costs incurred from October 2025 will count towards the cost cap!

What to do now 📣📣

Rather than wait until the last minute, prepare now. Carry out a portfolio review and cost analysis to find out what the current EPC rating is and plan out your next steps.

If any of your properties are close to a C, you may be better off doing the work sooner and obtain an updated EPC certificate based on the current regulations as this will be valid for 10 years meaning you will benefit from the grandfather arrangement

If you would like a portfolio review please send me a direct message to book in a call

13/08/2026

If you’re a First Time Buyer paying rent and feeling frustrated with how long it’s taking to save for a deposit, then I may have some good news for you.

Did you know there is a “No Deposit Mortgage”available for tenants struggling to save a house deposit.

As long as you can prove you have paid your rent on time for the last 12 months, this might just be the key to unlock the door and get you on the ladder much quicker.

But there are additional eligibility requirements so it’s not suitable for everyone. Please get in touch if you are ready to move forward with your homeownership goals in 2026

06/08/2026

Ready to purchase your next rental property? 🏠💰

Getting approved for a Buy-to-Let (BTL) mortgage isn't quite the same as getting a residential loan—lenders look at different rules before handing over the keys.

Here are 3 critical things you need to know before applying to boost your chances of approval: 👇

1️⃣ Rental Income & Stress Testing (ICR)

It’s not just about what you earn; it’s about what the property earns.

Lenders run an Interest Cover Ratio (ICR) stress test.

They generally require your projected monthly rent to cover 125% to 145%+ of the mortgage payment at a hypothetical "stressed" interest rate.

👉 Tip: Speak with local letting agents for a realistic rental valuation before making an offer!

2️⃣ Higher Deposit & Clean Credit

Unlike residential mortgages, standard BTL loans usually require a minimum deposit of 25% (a 75% LTV), though 30–40% gets you access to much stronger rates.

Lenders also want to see a clean credit record and often ask for proof of personal income (typically £25k+ annually) to cover any unexpected tenant voids.

3️⃣ Ownership Structure & Property Eligibility

Are you buying in your personal name or via a Limited Company (SPV)?

Lenders treat both differently, affecting tax treatment and criteria.

Additionally, lenders inspect property condition, EPC ratings, and local licensing rules. Ensuring the property meets all standards upfront stops delays dead in their tracks.

💡 Pro Tip: Preparing your financial paperwork early (bank statements, tax overviews, deposit proof) turns a stressful application into a smooth process!

💬 Planning your next property purchase soon?

Drop a comment below or DM us to discuss your options!

:

30/07/2026

20/07/2026

First time buyer big news!!!

A new shiny ISA will be available exclusively for first time buyers from April 2028!

This ISA has some good benefits over the Lifetime ISA, namely there is no upper age limit unlike the LISA and there is no withdrawal penalty if your circumstances changes and you need access to your money.

The finer details are due to be released in August this year but it’s a fabulous step forward for making the process of buying your first home

Contact me for more information

13/05/2026

New Mortgage Product Alert for First Time Buyers ‼️

Lloyds Banking Group have released a low deposit mortgage product which means you only need £5000 deposit to get on the ladder!

There are some restrictions you need to be aware of, some of which are:

1) maximum purchase price £300,000
2) At least one applicant needs to be a First Time Buyer
3) The deposit can’t be from a gift
4) Affordability maybe restricted due to a max Loan to Income ratio

This is a great opportunity if you’re a FTB and struggling to save and feel frustrated with how long it’s taking to save up a 10% deposit

Get in touch with me to book in a free consultation to find out if this product is suitable for you

Please note that this product isn’t for everyone which is why it’s important to get independent mortgage advice from a professional. And this product could be withdrawn at any time.

*Your home maybe repossessed if you do not keep up your repayments on your mortgage*