Should You Use Self-Build Mortgage Advisors?

What Are Self-Build Mortgages and How Do They Work?

A self-build mortgage is a loan specifically for people who want to build their own home. 

Unlike a standard mortgage where you receive all the money at once, a self-build mortgage releases funds in stages as your building project progresses. 

This approach aligns the financing with the needs of your construction schedule. The primary difference between self-build and traditional mortgages is the payment structure. 

In a self-build mortgage, you get money in phases – for buying land, laying foundations, and completing various construction milestones. 

These stages can include initial land purchase, foundation laying, wall construction, making the property weather-proof, and completion. 

This staged release helps manage finances efficiently, ensuring you only borrow what you need when you need it.

Why Choose a Self-Build Mortgage Advisor?

Choosing a self-build mortgage advisor brings several distinct benefits to your project. Let’s break down exactly what they can do for you:

• Avoid Pitfalls. Advisors are experienced in identifying and avoiding common issues in self-build projects. They foresee potential problems and guide you around them, ensuring your project stays on track.
• Get Exclusive Deals. With their industry connections, advisors can access exclusive deals and competitive rates from specialised lenders. This might include favourable terms or options not available directly to the public.
• Plan Smarter. A self-build mortgage advisor helps you create a more effective and realistic financial plan. They tailor this plan specifically to your project, ensuring you can manage costs effectively throughout the build.
• Save Time & Stress. Managing a self-build project can be time-consuming and stressful. Your advisor takes on complex tasks, from negotiating with lenders to managing paperwork, freeing you to focus on the building process.

Ultimately, a self-build mortgage advisor smooths out the process, helping turn your dream home into a reality with less hassle and more confidence. They are your partner in ensuring the project goes as smoothly as possible from start to finish.

How to Identify the Right Self-Build Mortgage Advisor?

To find the right self build mortgage advisor, here’s what you must consider:

• Seek an advisor with proven experience and necessary accreditations. These indicate professionalism and expertise.
• Check their recommendations and reviews. Positive feedback from past clients is a good sign of their reliability and skill.
• A personalised approach is crucial. Your advisor should understand your specific needs and tailor their advice accordingly.
• Don’t hesitate to ask potential advisors questions about their experience, approach, and how they’ve handled challenges in past projects. This can give you a clearer insight into their expertise and suitability for your project.
• Good communication is essential. Your advisor should be easy to talk to, clear in their explanations, and responsive to your queries and concerns.
• Look for advisors who are up-to-date with current market trends, regulations, and available financing options. This ensures they can provide you with the most relevant and advantageous advice.
• Consider using a free broker-matching service. They can help you find a qualified advisor suited to your project.

To find the perfect mortgage advisor, send us an enquiry. We’ll connect you with a self build mortgage advisor who can help you solve your financial situation.

How Will a Self-Build Mortgage Advisor Help?

A self-build mortgage advisor plays a crucial role in guiding you through various aspects of your project’s financing. Here’s how they’ll assist you:

• Budgeting. Advisors explain how your deposit size affects your mortgage deal and outline other significant costs. They’ll give you a clear picture of your financial commitments, helping you plan your budget effectively.
• Credit Check. They’ll review your credit reports with you, helping you understand your financial standing from a lender’s perspective. This is vital to anticipate and navigate any potential hurdles in your mortgage application.
• Exclusive Deal. Self-build mortgage advisors can access deals unavailable to the general public. They can find exclusive offers that suit your needs, potentially saving you money over the term of your mortgage.
• Paperwork. They’ll help you manage the extensive paperwork required for a self-build mortgage. This includes ensuring you meet the lender’s eligibility criteria, such as affordability checks and credit history, and the project’s suitability, like building regulations and planning permissions.
• Planning Permission. Your advisor will assist in securing the necessary planning permissions before you apply for the mortgage. They’ll advise whether you need an outline or detailed consent, crucial steps before approaching lenders.
• Unique Challenges. Whether you’re self-employed or planning a non-standard build, your advisor will know the best approach to take. They’re equipped to handle unique challenges that might arise during your application.
• Understand the Fine Print. Mortgages can be filled with complex terms and conditions. Your advisor will help you understand the intricacies of self-build mortgages, ensuring you’re aware of all the important details and obligations.

How Does a Self-Build Mortgage Advisor Help with the Help to Build Scheme?

A self-build mortgage advisor is key in helping you understand and apply for the Help to Build scheme. 

This government scheme is there to help people, especially those with lower incomes, build their own homes. It’s quite new and has its own set of rules and a detailed application process.

First off, your advisor will explain what the scheme is all about and how it works. They’ll make it simple for you to see how this scheme can help your building plans. 

Understanding all the government rules might seem tricky, but your advisor will make it clearer for you.

Next, they’ll help you figure out if you can apply for this scheme. They know exactly what’s needed and will guide you through the application, making sure you have a strong chance of being accepted.

Your advisor will also take care of the heavy lifting for you. They’ll sort out all the paperwork, talk to the right people, and make sure every part of your application is right. They’re all about making things smoother and more straightforward for you.

How Much Does a Self-Build Mortgage Advisor Charge?

Self-build mortgage advisors usually have different ways of charging. Some might charge a fixed fee between £300-£600, which means you pay a set amount for their services. 

Others work on a commission basis, getting paid a percentage based on the mortgage they help you secure.

It’s important to understand what you’re paying for. As discussed, these advisors offer valuable services like finding the right mortgage, handling paperwork, and giving expert advice. Their fees reflect the work they do to make your building project easier.

Always look for transparency in financial agreements. Good advisors will be clear about their fees and how they’re calculated. This means no hidden costs and you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for

>> More about Mortgage Broker Fees and Charges

The Bottom Line: How to Get Started

Getting started with a self-build mortgage advisor is straightforward. Here’s your action plan:

First, choose the right advisor. Search online or ask for recommendations. Once you’ve found a potential advisor, arrange your first meeting. This is where you discuss your project, your budget, and what you need from their expertise.

For this first meeting, preparation is key. Have a clear idea of your budget, the type of property you want, and any questions you might have. This preparation helps make the meeting as productive as possible.

If you’re finding this process a bit overwhelming and want to save time, get in touch with us. We’ll connect you with the perfect self-build mortgage advisor who can help with your financial situation.