blog mortgage118

Author: David Sampson

Remortgage With Bad Credit: Options & Specialist Lenders
TL;DR: Can you remortgage with bad credit? Yes. This guide covers your options, which specialist lenders consider adverse credit, and how a broker can find deals you won’t see on comparison sites.

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
What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?
TL;DR: What credit score do you need for a UK mortgage? This guide covers the minimum scores lenders look for, how to check your score, and practical steps to improve it before applying.

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
Interest-Only Mortgages: Who Can Still Get One in 2026?
TL;DR: Interest-only mortgages are harder to get but still available. This guide explains current criteria, which lenders offer them, repayment strategies, and alternatives if you don’t qualify.

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
Buying a Shop Unit: Commercial Mortgage Guide
TL;DR: Step-by-step guide to buying a shop or retail unit with a commercial mortgage. Covers tenant considerations, lease terms, valuation methods, and deposit requirements.

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
Retail Property Mortgages: Shops, High Street & Retail Parks
TL;DR: How to get a mortgage for retail property in the UK — shops, high street units, and retail parks. Covers lender criteria, typical rates, and how the retail market outlook affects lending.

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
Second-Charge Mortgages: How They Work & When to Use One
TL;DR: A complete guide to second-charge mortgages — how they work, when they’re better than remortgaging, typical rates and fees, and how to apply through a specialist broker.

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
High Street Property Investment: Is Retail Still Worth It?
TL;DR: An honest assessment of high street retail property investment in 2026 — covering yields, vacancy rates, changing consumer habits, and which retail formats still perform.

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
Second Charge Mortgage Lenders: Who Offers the Best Rates?
TL;DR: Compare specialist second-charge mortgage lenders in the UK. See current rates, maximum LTVs, lending criteria, and which lenders accept adverse credit or complex income.

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
Second Charge vs Remortgage: Which Is Right for You?
TL;DR: Should you take a second-charge mortgage or remortgage? Compare the costs, pros, and cons of each option. Understand when keeping your existing deal and adding a second charge saves money.

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
Self-Build Mortgage Calculator: Estimate Your Costs
TL;DR: Estimate your self-build mortgage costs including land purchase, build costs per stage, contingency buffers, and monthly payments. Understand how lenders calculate your borrowing limits.

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