Debt-to-Income Ratio

Understanding Debt-to-Income Ratio When it comes to applying for a mortgage, one factor that a lot of lenders consider is your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. This ratio provides insight into your financial health by comparing your total monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Understanding and managing your DTI ratio can impact your ability to… Read more
Why Use a Mortgage Broker?

Why Use a Mortgage Broker? Expert Advice from Kerr & Watson When it comes to securing a mortgage, you may wonder whether to go it alone or enlist the help of a professional mortgage broker. With the complex market of mortgage products, lenders, and ever-changing interest rates, having an expert guide you through the process… Read more
Do You Need Life Insurance to Buy or Remortgage a House?

Do You Need Life Insurance to Secure or Remortgage a House? When buying or remortgaging a house, you’re faced with numerous decisions, from choosing the right mortgage product to considering how to protect your investment. A question that often arises is whether life insurance is a necessary requirement for securing a mortgage. While the short… Read more
Equity Release for IHT Planning

Equity Release for Inheritance Tax Planning: Reduce IHT and Support Your Family If you’re a homeowner thinking about how best to pass on your wealth, inheritance tax (IHT) might already be on your radar. With property values having surged over recent decades, many people now find their estates exceeding the tax-free threshold, bringing the issue… Read more
Commercial Mortgage For Restaurants and Cafés

Commercial Mortgage Options For Restaurant And Café Owners If you run a restaurant or café, owning your premises can be very beneficial. It gives you stability, control over your space, and long term financial confidence. A commercial mortgage for restaurants and cafés is often the most effective way to make that step possible. Hospitality businesses… Read more
Mortgages for Flats Above Shops

How to Get a Mortgage for Flats Above Shops Buying a flat above a shop or commercial property comes with unique benefits and challenges. These flats are often in prime locations, close to amenities, and may be more affordable than other residential properties. However, getting a mortgage for a flat above a shop can be… Read more
What to Bring to Your Mortgage Appointment

Essential Checklist: Documents You Need for a Hassle-Free Mortgage Appointment Preparing for your mortgage appointment is crucial for a smoother and more efficient application process. Bringing or sending over the correct documents can significantly speed up the approval of your mortgage or remortgage. At Kerr & Watson, we aim to make this process as seamless… Read more
Case Study: Buy-to-Let Remortgage for Capital Raising

Summary We recently helped a portfolio landlord remortgage a two-bedroom buy-to-let flat in London to raise additional funds for home improvements. The property was valued at £650,000 with an existing mortgage of £392,000. The customer wanted to increase the borrowing to £422,500 while keeping monthly payments manageable through an interest-only structure. They also preferred a… Read more
How Much Does a £10 Million Bridging Loan Cost?

£10 Million Bridging Loan Costs Explained – Interest Rates, Fees & Real Examples A bridging loan can be a fast and flexible way to access large sums of money when timing is critical, particularly for property transactions or business opportunities. Whether you’re purchasing before a sale completes, renovating for resale, or unlocking capital for investment,… Read more
Mortgages for Listed Buildings

Can you get a mortgage on a listed building? Yes — but it can be more complex than a standard property. Listed buildings are considered higher risk by some lenders due to maintenance requirements, legal restrictions, and resale considerations. However, many lenders are still willing to consider these properties with the right approach. Listed building… Read more
Does Being in Your Overdraft Affect Mortgages?

Does being in your overdraft affect getting a mortgage? Yes, being in your overdraft can affect a mortgage application, but it does not automatically prevent you from getting a mortgage. Mortgage lenders will normally consider the wider picture, including how often you use your overdraft, whether you remain within the agreed limit, your income, regular… Read more
Auction Finance: How to Fund a Property Purchase Fast

Auction Finance for Property Buyers: Bridging Loans, Costs, and Timescales Buying a property at auction can be exciting, but it also brings pressure. The deadlines are tight, the rules are strict, and once you win, you are committed. That is why the finance matters. If you do not have the full purchase price in cash,… Read more

Category: Mortgages