How to Get a Mortgage: A Simple Guide for Home Movers

Read our guide to understand the steps involved, from checking your credit score to getting your keys

Introduction:

At Hartgrove Bros, we know that moving house can feel like a juggling act — and for most people, securing a mortgage is the first big step on that journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the property ladder, understanding how to get a mortgage is key to making your move as smooth as possible.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, from checking your credit score to getting your keys.

Let’s break it down…

1. Understand What a Mortgage Is:

A mortgage is a loan from a bank or lender to help you buy a home. You’ll pay it back (with interest) in monthly instalments, usually over 25–35 years. If you don’t keep up with repayments, the lender can repossess your property — so it’s important to borrow responsibly and within your means.

2. Check Your Finances First:

Before you approach a lender, take a good look at your own finances:

Credit Score – Check your credit score with agencies like Experian, Equifax or TransUnion. A higher score usually means better mortgage rates.
Income & Outgoings – Lenders will want to see proof of steady income and manageable outgoings. If possible, reduce debt and avoid large new credit commitments before applying.
Deposit – Most lenders ask for at least 5–10% of the property price as a deposit. The more you can put down, the better your mortgage deal is likely to be.

Top tip: Keep your bank statements tidy for a few months before applying — lenders will look closely at your spending habits.

3. Work Out How Much You Can Borrow:

Most lenders offer online mortgage calculators to give you a rough idea of what you could borrow, based on your income and expenses. As a general rule, you might be offered around 4–4.5 times your annual income, though this varies.

Don’t overstretch yourself — remember to leave breathing room in your monthly budget for bills, maintenance, and unexpected costs that come with owning a home.

4. Decide Which Type of Mortgage Suits You:

There are different types of mortgages available, including:

Fixed-rate – Your interest rate stays the same for a set number of years (typically 2–5 years), giving you predictable monthly payments.
Variable-rate – The rate can go up or down depending on the lender or the Bank of England base rate.
Tracker – Follows the base rate, plus a set percentage.
Offset – Links to your savings account, potentially reducing your interest payments.

Each has pros and cons depending on your situation, so it’s worth getting advice from a mortgage broker or adviser before deciding.

5. Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP):

Before you start seriously viewing homes, it’s a good idea to get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (also called a Decision in Principle). This is a statement from a lender saying they’re likely to lend you a certain amount, based on a basic check of your finances.

An AIP isn’t a full mortgage offer, but it can help you stand out to sellers and estate agents as a serious buyer.

6. Find the Right Property:

With your budget confirmed and AIP in hand, you can now start house-hunting! Once you’ve had an offer accepted, the mortgage application process officially begins.

7. Apply for a Mortgage:

At this stage, you’ll submit a full mortgage application to your chosen lender. You’ll usually need to provide:

Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
Proof of income (payslips, P60s, or tax returns if self-employed)
Bank statements (typically the last 3 months)
Details of your deposit and where it’s coming from

Your lender will also carry out a valuation of the property you want to buy, to ensure it’s worth what you’ve offered.

8. Get a Mortgage Offer:

If your application is successful, you’ll receive a formal mortgage offer — congratulations! This will outline the amount you’re borrowing, the interest rate, repayment terms, and any conditions.

Once you accept, your solicitor or conveyancer will coordinate with the lender to finalise the purchase.

9. Exchange Contracts and Complete:

Once all legal checks are done, and your mortgage is in place, you’ll exchange contracts with the seller. This is the point where everything becomes legally binding.

Your completion date is usually set at this stage — this is when the funds are released, the keys are handed over, and you officially become the new owner.

10. Book Your Move with Hartgrove Bros!:

Final Thoughts:

Getting a mortgage might seem complicated at first, but taking it step by step makes it much more manageable. Be prepared, get advice when you need it, and don’t rush into anything without understanding the long-term commitment.

And when you’re ready to move? You know who to call.

Hartgrove Bros — Making house moves easy, every step of the way.