blog mortgage118

Author: David Sampson

Commercial Mortgage Rates 2026: What to Expect & How to Compare
TL;DR: Current commercial mortgage rates in the UK for 2026 — including fixed vs variable options, how rates are set, and what affects the deal you are offered.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Commercial Mortgage Deposit: How Much Do You Need?
TL;DR: How much deposit you need for a commercial mortgage in the UK, typically 25-40% depending on property type, your experience, and the lender. Tips to reduce your deposit.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Bridging Loans Explained: When to Use Them and What They Cost
TL;DR: A complete guide to bridging loans in the UK — how they work, typical costs and rates, when they make sense, and how to choose between regulated and unregulated bridging.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Best Bridging Loan Rates UK 2026: Lender Comparison
TL;DR: Compare the best bridging loan rates in the UK for 2026. See which lenders offer the lowest monthly rates, arrangement fees, and most flexible terms for your project.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Regulated vs Unregulated Bridging Loans: Key Differences
TL;DR: Understand the difference between regulated and unregulated bridging loans, when each applies, FCA protections, and which type you need for your property transaction.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Mezzanine Finance: How It Works for Property Development
TL;DR: How mezzanine finance works alongside senior debt in property development, typical costs, when to use it, and how it affects your returns and risk profile.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
UK Property Development Finance: A Complete Guide
TL;DR: Everything you need to know about development finance in the UK — from application to drawdown, covering rates, GDV calculations, experience requirements, and lender criteria.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Can You Get a Mortgage With a CCJ? (Yes — Here’s How)
TL;DR: Yes, you can get a mortgage with a CCJ. This guide explains which lenders accept CCJs, how long you need to wait, what size CCJ matters, and how a specialist broker helps.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Development Finance Rates 2026: How Lenders Price Risk
TL;DR: Current development finance rates in the UK for 2026, how lenders price risk based on GDV, experience, location, and project type. Reduce your costs with these strategies.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Declined a Mortgage? What to Do Next
TL;DR: Been declined for a mortgage? Don’t panic. This guide explains the most common reasons for rejection and the practical steps you can take to get approved, including specialist broker options.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026