The Rettie Blog

Are you a first-time homebuyer feeling overwhelmed by the process? Don't worry - we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll share three crucial steps to take before purchasing a property, including completing an affordability test, creating a budget, and obtaining an agreement in principle from a mortgage lender. Plus, we'll introduce you to our homebuying app, which provides all the tools and information you need to make informed decisions and simplify your journey to homeownership.

The second article in our first time buyer series of blogs explains the different types of mortgage and protection products available.

The first blog in our First Time Buyer Series covering the topic of deposits and buying costs, including budgeting, saving, first time buyer schemes, LISAs, the Bank of Mum and Dad, legal fees and mortgage fees.

Watch this week's Mortgage Update from Rettie Financial Services' Managing Director, Bob Duncan

A green mortgage rewards you for buying or owning an energy efficient home. The same rules will apply if you make improvements or renovations to your home with the goal of making it more energy efficient. With green mortgages, lenders or banks will offer preferential terms to a house buyer if they can prove that the property they're looking at meets certain environmental standards. Homeowners will either get cheaper interest rates on their properties with high energy efficiency ratings, or they'll be offered cash back incentives to buy energy efficient properties. Some standard mortgages can also become green mortgages, but only if the homeowner commits to making energy efficient improvements. While some green mortgages can be more expensive, the main point of them is to incentivise homeowners to be greener.

If you're feeling the pinch as a landlord in the current climate, and you're worried about the upcoming changes in EPC legislation, don't panic, we're here to help. Interest rates are changing at their quickest pace seen in over a decade. If you are within 6 months to the end of your current deal then act now, as remortgaging could help to ease the pressure.

We are all seeing the headlines about mortgage products being withdrawn or changed. In these changing times, expertise from Mortgage & Protection specialists, such as Rettie Financial Services, has never been more important. Although it is a turbulent time, you don’t need to be in it alone. Talking to Rettie Financial Services can really help.

As one of the most trusted and well-respected names in property, earlier this year, Rettie Financial Services was launched. Offering expert advice on mortgages, personal protection, and insurance, the Rettie Financial Services team will work with you to find the product and deal that is right for you and your requirements.

Hefty deposits are usually what stands in the way of a first time buyer taking their first steps onto the property ladder. Often first time buyers can afford the monthly repayments, but just don't have the lump sum for a deposit. That's why many people are turning to their parents for help: enter the bank of Mum and Dad.

You don't have to keep the same mortgage for the entire period of your loan. In fact, doing so could cost you thousands of pounds extra over the repayment period.

Many of us will know someone who has died or suffered a critical illness, which can have devastating effects on those around them. Whilst our lives may be going well, none of us know what is around the next corner, but it is at this point that plans should be made, so should something go wrong, you are protected, and your finances do not become a problem. For most people, their mortgage is their largest financial commitment, and should the worst happen, it would be good to know that your mortgage payments will be maintained, or that your mortgage would be paid off.

Taking out protection cover and putting the policy into trust can help you protect the financial future of your family and provide them with security and peace of mind. It can mean the right people will benefit from your policy at the right time. Putting your policy in trust can be done for no extra cost.