Blog

When you're beginning your mortgage search, it's easy to get drawn in by Best Buy Tables. These tables—found on comparison sites or lender websites—are designed to give a quick snapshot of the most competitive mortgage deals available based on interest rates, fees, and overall cost. But while they can be a helpful tool, they don’t always tell the full story—especially if your circumstances fall outside the ‘standard’ borrowing criteria.At Mortgage321, we believe in giving you a clear, informed perspective. So, here’s our guide to using Best Buy Tables—and when it’s time to go beyond them.<h3>✅ What Are Best Buy Tables?</h3>Best Buy Tables are simple comparison charts showing a selection of top mortgage deals, usually ranked by interest rate or initial monthly cost. They typically include:<ul><li>The lender’s name</li><li>The type of mortgage (e.g., fixed, tracker) </li><li>The interest rate and term </li><li>The lender’s fees </li><li>The APRC (Annual Percentage Rate of Charge) </li><li>The initial monthly payment </li></ul>Some tables even allow basic filters—like property value, loan amount, or repayment type.They’re useful for building initial awareness and identifying potential mortgage products—but that’s where their usefulness ends for many borrowers.<figure id="figure-rhhawa5exmd3pjv60"><img id="rhhawa5exmd3pjv60" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/231vAWYcyRODVxwIC55GmQiJ2AfidPcij6NGV57WOa7ARrIxMxuwAbjilBM9HnPR.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/231vAWYcyRODVxwIC55GmQiJ2AfidPcij6NGV57WOa7ARrIxMxuwAbjilBM9HnPR.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>🚫 Limitations of Best Buy Tables</h3>While helpful at a glance, Best Buy Tables have significant limitations—especially for clients with non-standard scenarios:<ul><li>They assume “vanilla” criteria: These tables generally base results on ideal borrower profiles—clean credit, stable income, standard property types, and low LTV (loan-to-value). </li><li>No room for complexity: If you’re self-employed, have adverse credit, own multiple properties, or are purchasing under value or via auction—Best Buy Tables don’t reflect lenders who specialise in these areas. </li><li>Not tailored to affordability: Just because a rate looks competitive doesn’t mean the lender will agree to lend the amount you need. Every lender assesses affordability differently. </li><li>Fees can distort true cost: A product with a low interest rate but a high arrangement fee may cost more overall than one with a slightly higher rate and no fee. </li><li>Not all lenders are listed: Many specialist or intermediary-only lenders—those we regularly work with at Mortgage321—don’t feature in public comparison tools. &nbsp; <h3>🔍 How We Use Best Buy Tables at Mortgage321</h3></li></ul>At Mortgage321, we do review Best Buy Tables as part of the initial market scan—but more importantly, we combine that data with over 30 years of specialist experience to assess:<ul><li>Your individual circumstances</li><li>Your income structure (PAYE, self-employed, company director, portfolio landlord, etc.) </li><li>Credit history and debt profile</li><li>Property type (e.g., HMO, mixed-use, or commercial units)</li><li>Purpose (purchase, remortgage, capital raising, bridging, etc.)</li></ul> From there, we access a wider panel of lenders, including those who don’t appear on public tables—offering bespoke terms tailored to your needs.<figure id="figure-97mi8bezmmd3plgmg"><img id="97mi8bezmmd3plgmg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cwy2UZ0Vv8WGfwNbtUQDT5C3GHqNVgMhBhNmo8zWehIP5ijxwZUsjSKZNkYMTnr.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cwy2UZ0Vv8WGfwNbtUQDT5C3GHqNVgMhBhNmo8zWehIP5ijxwZUsjSKZNkYMTnr.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>🔐 Best Buy Doesn’t Always Mean Best Fit </h3>The lowest rate isn’t always the best option. We regularly help clients who come to us after applying directly via a Best Buy Table—only to be declined due to:<ul><li>Historical credit issues </li><li>Non-standard income (e.g. dividends, retained profits) </li><li>Unusual property types</li><li>Insufficient automated affordability</li></ul> That’s where our tailored approach comes in. We focus on getting the mortgage that works for you, not just the one that looks good online.<h3>&nbsp; 💡 When Should You Speak to a Broker Instead? </h3>If any of the following apply, it’s time to go beyond the table and speak to us directly:<ul><li>You’ve been declined by a high street lender </li><li>You’re self-employed or have complex income </li><li>You're looking at a buy-to-let, HMO, or commercial property </li><li>You have adverse or limited credit history </li><li>You’re raising capital for business or investment </li><li>You’re considering a bridging loan or auction purchase </li><li>You’re buying under market value or via gifted equity &nbsp; <h3>👋 Let’s Make the Best Choice, Not Just the Best Rate</h3></li></ul>Best Buy Tables are a good starting point—but they’re no substitute for tailored advice. At Mortgage321, we take time to understand your full picture, then use our access to specialist lenders and industry knowledge to secure the most suitable deal—one that gets approved and aligns with your financial goals.If you're unsure whether the rates you're seeing are truly right for you, get in touch today for a no-obligation chat. We're here to bring clarity and confidence to your mortgage journey.<figure id="figure-2m21ydu8tmd3pnu1l"><img id="2m21ydu8tmd3pnu1l" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29vZl3tYnwHSX8oL3ocQYE1qcudx0NyoeVU4LF1ZiK5VxthldUolpGb8FeTSQ8U2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="45%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

How to Use Best Buy Tables – And Why They’re Just the Starting Point

Businessman Walking On Hand That Bridges The Gap

In today’s fast-moving property market, opportunities don’t always wait for traditional mortgage timescales. That’s where bridging finance comes in—a short-term funding solution designed to “bridge” the gap until a more permanent mortgage can be arranged.At Mortgage321, we often assist clients in structuring a bridging loan that transitions into a traditional term mortgage. But when does this strategy make sense? And what are the potential benefits and risks? Let’s explore.<h3>🏡 What Is Bridging Finance?</h3>Bridging finance is a short-term loan, usually secured against property, that is typically repaid within 12 months. It is designed for speed and flexibility, and is often used to solve time-sensitive funding needs.Once the immediate need is met—whether it’s purchasing a property, funding renovations, or resolving a chain break—the loan is repaid by refinancing onto a traditional mortgage or through the sale of an asset.<h3>✅ When to Consider Bridging Followed by a Remortgage </h3>Here are some of the most common scenarios we handle at Mortgage321:1. Buying Before You Sell (Chain-Break Solution) Client Profile: Homeowners upgrading or downsizing Use Case: A client finds their dream home but hasn’t sold their current property yet. Strategy:<ul><li>Use bridging finance to complete the purchase quickly.</li><li>Repay the bridge with proceeds from the sale of the existing home. </li><li>If the property isn’t sold in time, remortgage onto a term loan to repay the bridge. 👉 This avoids missing out on a new property and provides a fallback plan through remortgaging.</li></ul>2. Purchasing Below Market Value (BMV) Client Profile: Property investor purchasing from family or through a distressed sale Use Case: A landlord purchases a property from a family member at £100,000 under market value. Strategy:<ul><li>Secure a bridging loan based on the open market value. </li><li>Use it to purchase quickly and refurbish the property. </li><li>Remortgage within 6 months at full market value to release equity and repay the bridge. 👉 Ideal for gifted equity, repossessions, or “undervalue” transactions.<figure id="figure-zh326vygfmctpy946"><img id="zh326vygfmctpy946" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14uiF0j5c8eyVZZbmoAVFG2lIFRQaHMfu6Tqa7QOVyYSd8hG6irEvish5g491RuR.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure></li></ul>3. Auction Purchases Client Profile: Investors or developers purchasing at auction Use Case: Auction rules require completion within 28 days. Strategy:<ul><li>Use bridging finance for fast access to funds.</li><li>Carry out essential works to bring the property to mortgageable condition. </li><li>Remortgage to a buy-to-let or residential product once eligible. 👉 Bridging enables acquisition within tight timescales, with exit via traditional lending.</li></ul>4. Renovation Projects Client Profile: Landlords or developers buying uninhabitable properties Use Case: A property without a kitchen or bathroom is unmortgageable by high-street lenders. Strategy:<ul><li>Use a bridging loan to buy and renovate the property. </li><li>Refinance to a term mortgage once works are complete and the property is habitable. 👉 Useful when a property doesn’t meet mortgage lender criteria at the outset.</li></ul>5. Capital Raising Against Existing Property Client Profile: Self-employed or clients with complex income Use Case: Raise funds quickly to seize a business or investment opportunity. Strategy:<ul><li>Bridge secured against an existing asset. </li></ul>Once income or paperwork is in place, refinance to a longer-term mortgage. 👉 Especially helpful where mainstream lending isn’t immediately accessible. <figure id="figure-xucvscpriamctpwguc" class=""><img id="xucvscpriamctpwguc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26YrH4mEMmC5WV9hNqM5sJRi5EDu0aUb6PGSK3S894IFSr7m53KyH7KpmOxhooAP.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26YrH4mEMmC5WV9hNqM5sJRi5EDu0aUb6PGSK3S894IFSr7m53KyH7KpmOxhooAP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>⚠️ Points to Consider Before Using a Bridge-to-Term Strategy </h3><ul><li>Exit Strategy is Critical: You must have a clear and realistic plan for repayment—whether via remortgage, sale, or other means. </li><li>Interest Roll-Up vs. Monthly Payments: Many bridging loans allow for rolled-up interest, but this can increase your total repayment amount. </li><li>Lender Requirements Post-Bridge: Some lenders impose a minimum 6-month ownership before refinancing—though specialist lenders (like those Mortgage321 work with) may offer immediate refinancing options. &nbsp; <h3>🤝 How Mortgage321 Can Help</h3></li></ul>Bridging finance can unlock opportunities that traditional mortgages can’t—but only if structured correctly. At Mortgage321, we take a tailored approach, carefully assessing:<ul><li>The exit strategy </li><li>The client’s long-term affordability </li><li>Property value trends and development potential </li><li>Remortgage viability at the end of the bridging term With over 30 years of experience in complex and non-conforming lending, we work closely with lenders that understand the nuances of bridging and exit refinancing. Whether you’re purchasing at auction, unlocking equity, or developing a portfolio, we ensure a seamless transition from short-term to sustainable finance.</li></ul><h3>📞 Ready to Explore Bridging with a Remortgage Exit?</h3> If you’re facing a time-sensitive purchase or need flexible funding, don’t let traditional lending timescales hold you back.Contact Mortgage321 on 01255 440142 today for expert guidance on bridging and bespoke mortgage exit strategies—built entirely around your circumstances.&nbsp; Mortgage321 – Your Specialist Partner in Bridging Finance and Complex Mortgages.<figure id="figure-oucvtaxyumctpv4m5"><img id="oucvtaxyumctpv4m5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1cqnxrjs3pTgKCRZJAdLKwSGTq3rXgXGerVjBtEvlarZengHdpugnNvUL3cIJGsy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1cqnxrjs3pTgKCRZJAdLKwSGTq3rXgXGerVjBtEvlarZengHdpugnNvUL3cIJGsy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

🔗 When to Consider Bridging Finance with a Remortgage Thereafter

<h3>Navigating the New Normal: Why Now’s the Time to Review Your Mortgage Options </h3>As we reach the halfway point of 2025, the UK mortgage landscape continues to evolve—presenting both challenges and opportunities for homeowners, first-time buyers, and property investors alike.At Mortgage321, we’ve seen a notable increase in enquiries as clients reassess their borrowing in light of recent market movements. Whether you're looking to purchase your first home, refinance for a better deal, or capital raise against existing property for investment or development purposes, this may be a pivotal moment to take action.<h3>🔍 What’s Happening in the Market? </h3>Following the Bank of England’s decision to hold the base rate during the June MPC meeting, lenders are cautiously adjusting product offerings. While rate reductions are expected in the latter half of the year, current lender pricing remains mixed—with some tightening affordability calculations and others offering selective reductions in fixed rates to remain competitive.Key developments this month:<ul><li>Product Transfer opportunities: Existing borrowers may now secure better rates than they did 6–12 months ago.</li><li>Buy-to-let reshaping: More lenders are opening up to limited company structures, with enhanced rental stress tests. </li><li>Bridging &amp; development finance: Short-term funding is gaining traction for investors looking to convert, refurbish or complete projects delayed by 2023–2024 rate volatility.</li></ul><h3>💼 Why This Matters for You</h3>With property prices stabilising in many regions and more competitive borrowing options returning to the market, this is the time to review your financial positioning and lending strategy. However, the key to unlocking the right solution lies in understanding your personal or investment profile—and that's where we come in.<h3>&nbsp;✅ How Mortgage321 Can Help </h3>At Mortgage321, we specialise in:<ul><li>Complex income structures (self-employed, contractors, directors) </li><li>Adverse credit mortgages and declined applicants </li><li>Bridging and refurbishment finance </li><li>HMO and semi-commercial property finance </li><li>Capital raising for investment, business, or personal purposes </li></ul>Whether you're buying your next home, remortgaging to save money, or expanding your property portfolio, our team delivers clear, experienced, and tailored advice—with direct access to specialist lenders often unavailable via high street channels.<figure id="figure-6vk3evg3rmcg8w3oh"><img id="6vk3evg3rmcg8w3oh" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/956437954/photo/spectacles-jackpot-entrepreneur-economist-banker-chic-posh-manager-jacket-concept-handsome.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CMYhIl43xzg1faoLopFu10gRgj057h-Muwh88cm1ddA=" alt="Spectacles jackpot entrepreneur economist banker chic posh manager jacket concept. Handsome confident cunning clever wealthy rich luxury guy holding wasting stack of money isolated on gray background" title="Spectacles jackpot entrepreneur economist banker chic posh manager jacket concept. Handsome confident cunning clever wealthy rich luxury guy holding wasting stack of money isolated on gray background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/956437954/photo/spectacles-jackpot-entrepreneur-economist-banker-chic-posh-manager-jacket-concept-handsome.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CMYhIl43xzg1faoLopFu10gRgj057h-Muwh88cm1ddA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>🚀 Time for a Mortgage Health Check? </h3>It’s never been more important to know where you stand. A 15-minute conversation with us could:<ul><li>Highlight untapped borrowing potential </li><li>Prevent you from overpaying on your current deal </li><li>Clarify how best to structure your next purchase or refinance </li></ul>We offer free initial consultations, with no obligation—just clear, informed guidance to help you make the right next move.<h3>📞 Get in Touch Today</h3>Let’s talk about your mortgage goals—whether that’s saving money, investing in your future, or restructuring your portfolio. Use our expertise to your advantage.👉 Call us today on 01255 440142 📧 Or email us at <a href="mailto:hello@mortgage321.co.uk" data-mce-href="mailto:hello@mortgage321.co.uk">hello@mortgage321.co.uk</a>&nbsp; 🌐 Or submit your enquiry at <a href="http://www.mortgage321.co.uk" data-mce-href="http://www.mortgage321.co.uk">www.mortgage321.co.uk</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; Mortgage321 – Experienced. Insightful. On Your Side.“We don’t just place mortgages—we solve problems others walk away from.”

Mortgage Market Update – June 2025

The Bank of England has announced its decision to hold the base interest rate at 4.25%, maintaining a cautious stance amid rising global uncertainty. This marks a continued pause in rate changes as policymakers assess both domestic inflation and international risks—particularly those stemming from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.But what does this decision mean for you as a homeowner, first-time buyer, or property investor?<h3>🌍 Global Events: Why They Matter for UK Mortgage Rates </h3>The Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) made it clear in their June statement that they are closely monitoring external shocks—especially in energy markets. Since May, oil prices have surged by 26% and natural gas prices are up 11%, largely due to instability in the Middle East.In response, the Bank stated that it would remain sensitive to the “heightened unpredictability” affecting the global economy. In short, while inflation is gradually falling at home, any sudden spike in energy costs could reverse progress and trigger renewed inflationary pressure.This is why the Bank is currently holding firm on rates—it's a balancing act between supporting economic recovery and guarding against another surge in inflation.<h3>🏠 What This Means for Your Mortgage </h3>At Mortgage321, we’re already seeing the effects of this decision play out in real time, especially across fixed and tracker rate products.<ul><li>Existing fixed-rate borrowers remain insulated for now, but should begin planning well in advance of product expiry. Remortgaging early, or securing a new rate before a potential upward shift, could save thousands. </li><li>Tracker mortgage holders will see no immediate change in repayments, but must stay vigilant. Any future rate hikes could impact affordability quickly. </li><li>Buy-to-let landlords and portfolio investors may benefit from this rate hold, especially those considering capital raising or refinancing to expand their portfolios. However, rising energy prices could affect tenant affordability and operating costs—something we help clients factor into their investment strategy. &nbsp;</li></ul><h3>🧭 Strategic Planning Amid Uncertainty </h3>While the 4.25% base rate offers short-term stability, the Bank’s emphasis on geopolitical risks signals that the mortgage market may remain volatile in the months ahead.This is where Mortgage321 comes in. With over 30 years’ experience in non-conforming and complex lending, we’re well-placed to provide tailored advice that considers:✅ Your individual risk profile ✅ The potential for future interest rate fluctuations ✅ The impact of energy prices on affordability and yield ✅ Suitable lender products for your unique circumstances<h3>📌 Final Thought </h3>The Bank of England is playing the long game, but that doesn’t mean you should wait to act. Whether you're a first-time buyer, self-employed applicant, or a landlord reviewing your portfolio, now is the time to review your borrowing strategy and stay ahead of the curve.Need help navigating the market? Get in touch with Mortgage321 for clear, professional advice backed by decades of experience in complex mortgage scenarios.

📉 Bank of England Holds Base Rate at 4.25% – What This Means for Borrowers and Property Investors

At Mortgage321, we regularly help clients navigate the financial complexities of moving home. One of the most common mistakes we see? Sellers overestimating how much they’ll have available for their next property deposit.It’s easy to assume that the equity in your current home will seamlessly fund your next move. But without accurate calculations, this can quickly unravel—causing delays, stress, or worse, a failed transaction.Here’s how to avoid that scenario and make sure your onward purchase is built on solid financial ground.<h3>🧮 Step-by-Step: How to Calculate Your Deposit for the Next Property </h3>To work out your true deposit amount, you need to account for all associated costs. Follow these steps:1. Estimate Your Sale Proceeds Start with your estimated sale price. Then deduct:<ul><li>Any remaining mortgage balance on your current home </li><li>Estate agent fees (typically 1%–1.5% + VAT of the sale price) </li><li>Solicitor fees for the sale (usually £750–£1,200) </li><li>Redemption fees from your lender (can be £100–£300 or more) </li><li>Early repayment charges (if applicable – check your mortgage offer) </li></ul>Example:Sale price: £350,000 Remaining mortgage: £250,000 Estate agent fees (1.2%): £4,200 Solicitor fees: £1,000 Redemption &amp; early repayment: £1,000Net sale proceeds = £93,800 2. Calculate Costs for the New Purchase Next, factor in all the buying costs:<ul><li>Deposit (typically 5%–25% depending on the lender and product) </li><li>Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) – based on property value </li><li>Legal fees for purchase (£1,000–£1,500) </li><li>Survey/valuation costs (£250–£1,000) </li><li>Moving costs (removals, storage, temporary accommodation if chain breaks) </li><li>Broker or advisor fees (e.g. Mortgage321’s fee of 0.5%, £200 payable on application) &nbsp; <h3>⚠️ Common Pitfalls: Where Buyers Often Go Wrong</h3>🔸 Underestimating Selling Costs Sellers often forget estate agent VAT, early redemption fees, or the actual balance owed after daily interest.</li></ul>🔸 Overestimating Sale Price Relying on an optimistic agent valuation without considering market fluctuations or condition of property can backfire—especially if you accept an offer lower than asking price.🔸 Ignoring Tax Stamp Duty remains one of the largest costs when buying a new home. Even at modest purchase levels, it can significantly erode available deposit funds.🔸 Chain Delays and Temporary Costs If your onward chain stalls, costs like temporary accommodation or double removals may arise—these are rarely budgeted for but can add hundreds or even thousands.<h3>📈 Where Costs Typically Escalate </h3>Even with careful planning, some costs tend to increase unexpectedly:<ul><li>Legal costs if issues arise with titles, leases, or searches </li><li>Survey upgrades when a basic valuation flags structural issues </li><li>Stamp Duty recalculations if completion is delayed into a new tax year or if your status as a buyer changes (e.g. second home vs. main residence) </li><li>Mortgage interest if the completion is delayed and your current deal ends before drawdown </li><li>Removal and storage fees if your moving date changes last minute &nbsp;<h3>✅ How Mortgage321 Helps You Stay in Control</h3></li></ul>At Mortgage321, we specialise in helping movers understand the full financial picture. Our process includes:<ul><li>Realistic affordability calculations </li><li>Review of all likely sale and purchase costs </li><li>Guidance on sale proceeds vs. onward deposit </li><li>Access to lenders suited to your timeline, credit profile, and property type </li><li>Strategic advice if your chain is complex </li></ul>With over 30 years of specialist mortgage experience, we help you plan ahead and avoid surprises—ensuring you can move with confidence.<h3>🏠 Final Thought </h3>When it comes to moving home, assumptions are costly. Before making an offer on your next property, make sure your figures are watertight. A conversation with an experienced broker can highlight hidden costs, stress-test your affordability, and secure a product that fits your timeline.Ready to calculate your true budget and move with confidence? 📞 Call Mortgage321 today on 01255 440142 or complete our <a data-mce-href="https://mortgage321.co.uk/contact" href="https://mortgage321.co.uk/contact">online form</a> for a tailored affordability assessment.

💼 Moving Home? Why Calculating Your Deposit Properly Is Critical to a Smooth Purchase

When your mortgage deal is nearing its end, it’s time to consider your next move. Should you stay with your current lender and switch to one of their new products—or remortgage to another lender for potentially better terms?At Mortgage321, we help clients navigate this crucial decision every day. It’s not just about chasing the lowest rate—it’s about understanding the full picture. Here's a breakdown of how to assess your options and why using a specialist broker like Mortgage321 can make all the difference.<h3>What Is a Product Switch? </h3>A product switch (also called a rate switch or product transfer) is when you stay with your existing mortgage lender but move to a new deal—usually when your current fixed or discounted rate is due to expire. The main benefits are:<ul><li>No legal or valuation fees (in most cases) </li><li>Quicker and simpler process—no full underwriting or legal work </li><li>No need for affordability reassessment in many scenarios &nbsp;</li></ul>What Is a Remortgage?A remortgage means moving your mortgage to a new lender, often to take advantage of a lower interest rate, raise additional capital, or change the mortgage terms. While this can unlock better pay rates, it also involves:<ul><li>A full application process (including income verification and credit checks) </li><li>Legal and valuation fees (some lenders offer incentives to cover these) </li><li>Longer completion times<figure id="figure-htpp4gz4v8mawjyy11" class=""><img id="htpp4gz4v8mawjyy11" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19Ki2YT7pdERu2JI6lMCjbyDWYcmJ28IkHgkTyG8w21lC8Qh3SU5scPdbhFQWpOJ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19Ki2YT7pdERu2JI6lMCjbyDWYcmJ28IkHgkTyG8w21lC8Qh3SU5scPdbhFQWpOJ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure></li></ul>How to Assess Which Is Right for You1. Compare True Cost, Not Just RateA lower interest rate from a new lender might look appealing—but once you factor in legal costs, valuation fees, and possibly a broker fee, it may end up costing more than staying put.2. Consider Your Current CircumstancesIf your income has changed, your credit profile has weakened, or you're now self-employed with complex income, it might be more difficult to secure a remortgage. A product switch could be the safer and quicker option.3. Factor in TimingRemortgaging can take 4–8 weeks or more. If your current deal is about to expire and you're heading for the lender’s higher Standard Variable Rate (SVR), a product switch can offer immediate protection.4. Think Beyond the Headline RateThe cheapest pay rate doesn’t always win. Consider:<ul><li>Early repayment charges </li><li>Product fees (and whether they can be added to the loan) </li><li>Fixed rate period length </li><li>Flexibility (e.g. overpayments, portability)</li></ul><figure id="figure-8r8oxbakwmawk1a1f"><img id="8r8oxbakwmawk1a1f" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bLctu2raJqHGRipJM6NpKj6Xzo3p68E7zWDPv065TPBfoLFiW807Qtth2L5Q3B2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bLctu2raJqHGRipJM6NpKj6Xzo3p68E7zWDPv065TPBfoLFiW807Qtth2L5Q3B2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Pitfalls of Assessing the Market YourselfWe regularly help clients who have spent hours scouring comparison sites or speaking to lenders directly—only to hit roadblocks such as:<ul><li>Misinterpreting eligibility criteria </li><li>Overestimating savings due to hidden costs </li><li>Wasting time with declined applications due to affordability or credit issues </li><li>Missing specialist lenders who don’t deal with the public directly</li></ul><figure id="figure-md9lpewdacmawk7082"><img id="md9lpewdacmawk7082" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/3ajQcRmlMfsU6cgm3hszIBNenv7GatahAXgG4vS1eU63SbCX94U95gbqqeCqJPn3.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/3ajQcRmlMfsU6cgm3hszIBNenv7GatahAXgG4vS1eU63SbCX94U95gbqqeCqJPn3.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Why Use Mortgage321? </h3>At Mortgage321, we don’t just search the market—we strategically assess your unique situation. With over 30 years of experience, we specialise in:<ul><li>Complex cases—self-employed, credit issues, unusual property types </li><li>Tailored advice that weighs up product switch vs. remortgage properly </li><li>Maximising borrowing potential while keeping costs in check </li><li>Client-first service—we handle the paperwork, lender liaising, and everything in between</li></ul>Most importantly, we compare both options: the deals offered by your current lender and what’s available across the broader market. In many cases, we recommend staying with your lender if that’s the most cost-effective option—and we’ll tell you that upfront.<h3>In Summary </h3>A product switch can be a smart move if speed, simplicity, and minimal fees are key. A remortgage may suit you better if you’re seeking additional borrowing or your lender’s products aren’t competitive.But the key is getting expert advice tailored to your situation. At Mortgage321, we specialise in cutting through the confusion and helping you make a confident, informed decision—without falling into costly traps.<h3>Ready to review your mortgage options? </h3>Let Mortgage321 do the legwork and secure the right deal for you. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned landlord, or self-employed professional, we’re here to help.📞 Call us today on 01255 440142 or complete our <a href="https://mortgage321.co.uk/contact" data-mce-href="https://mortgage321.co.uk/contact">quick online enquiry form</a> to get started.<figure id="figure-vn64e0a5irmawk2hie"><img id="vn64e0a5irmawk2hie" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dC65Zb4Au6XK3oJKqaNIphw55usQQNLthkskcTWalbNDPKMpKVATDRWFfYXTCNo.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="45%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dC65Zb4Au6XK3oJKqaNIphw55usQQNLthkskcTWalbNDPKMpKVATDRWFfYXTCNo.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 20%;"></figure>

Product Switch vs. Remortgage: What’s the Best Option for You?

Mortgage321

Mortgage and Protection Broker based in Colchester

Hanken Grotesk

General Sans

We use cookies. By clicking “Accept,” you agree to our use of cookies as described in our <a href="https://mortgage321.co.uk/privacy-policy">Privacy Policy</a>.

Mortgage321

Mortgage321

Blog

How to Use Best Buy Tables – And Why They’re Just the Sta...

🔗 When to Consider Bridging Finance with a Remortgage Th...

Mortgage Market Update – June 2025

📉 Bank of England Holds Base Rate at 4.25% – What This M...

💼 Moving Home? Why Calculating Your Deposit Properly Is ...

Product Switch vs. Remortgage: What’s the Best Option for...