Frequently Asked Questions

We offer access to a wide range of lenders, competitive rates, and personal advice tailored to your situation — all with friendly, local service.

We offer free initial consultations, and we’re transparent about any fees before you proceed.

Absolutely. We work with clients across the UK, offering virtual meetings and phone consultations.

Simply get in touch for a free, no-obligation chat. We’ll discuss your goals and guide you every step of the way.

A mortgage broker searches the market to find the best mortgage deal for your circumstances. At GWT Mortgages, we handle the paperwork, liaise with lenders, and guide you through every step of the process.

Using a mortgage broker gives you access to a wider range of lenders and exclusive deals you won’t find on the high street. Brokers can also save you time and money by managing the full application.

You’ll need ID, proof of income (such as payslips or accounts if self-employed), bank statements, and proof of deposit. We’ll guide you through what’s needed for your specific lender.

A mortgage offer usually takes 1 to 4 weeks once your application is submitted. Timings vary depending on the lender and how quickly documents are provided.

A higher credit score can mean better mortgage rates. If your credit isn’t perfect, we can still help — many lenders cater to those with low credit or previous defaults.

It’s a statement from a lender confirming how much they might lend you based on basic information. It helps show estate agents and sellers that you’re a serious buyer.

Yes, there are lenders that specialise in bad credit mortgages. We can help find a deal that suits your circumstances.

You’ll usually need at least 5% of the property price. The more you can save, the better your mortgage rate will be.

Schemes like Shared Ownership and First Homes can help make buying your first home more affordable. We can explain which one suits you best.

If your property costs under £425,000, you won’t pay stamp duty as a first-time buyer in England.

Yes — many lenders offer 95% mortgages for buyers with smaller deposits.

It’s best to start looking around 3–6 months before your current deal ends. Remortgaging can help you save money or release equity.

Yes, if your home has increased in value, you can release some of that equity to fund home improvements, consolidate debts, or invest elsewhere.

Some lenders offer fee-free remortgage deals, while others may charge valuation or legal fees. We’ll compare all costs for you.

Yes, though it may limit your options. We’ll review your situation and find the most suitable lender.

A buy-to-let mortgage is designed for landlords purchasing property to rent out. The loan amount is usually based on the expected rental income.

Most lenders require a 25% deposit, although some may accept less depending on your circumstances.

Many are interest-only, meaning you pay just the interest each month and repay the balance when you sell or refinance.

Yes — rental income is taxable, but you can often offset certain expenses. Always check with a tax adviser for personal guidance.

Life insurance helps pay off your mortgage if you pass away, protecting your family from financial stress.

Most lenders require a 25% deposit, although some may accept less depending on your circumstances.

Life insurance pays a lump sum to your loved ones, while mortgage protection is designed specifically to clear your mortgage balance.

Yes — rental income is taxable, but you can often offset certain expenses. Always check with a tax adviser for personal guidance.

Ideally, enough to repay your mortgage and cover family living costs. We can help you calculate the right level of cover.

Typically, it includes cancer, heart attack, and stroke — but cover varies by provider.

No, but it’s strongly recommended to protect your loved ones if something unexpected happens.

It should ideally match the length of your mortgage term or until your financial dependents are independent.