Buying a house – Why mortgage advice should be your first step
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions – and it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. With so many steps involved, from saving a deposit to finding the right property and navigating the legal process, it’s easy to get lost in the noise.
But one question we hear time and again at Helen Ferneyhough Associates is: “Where do I even start?”
The answer is simple: start with mortgage advice.
Before browsing properties on Rightmove or heading to your first viewing, the most important thing you can do is get a clear understanding of your finances and what’s possible based on your personal circumstances.
Why Getting Mortgage Advice Comes First
Without professional mortgage advice, you’re effectively house hunting in the dark. You might be aiming too high – or even too low – based on assumptions about what you can borrow. Speaking to an experienced mortgage broker at the start of your journey means you’ll be informed, prepared, and confident when the right property comes along.
Here’s what early mortgage advice helps you understand:
• How much you can borrow based on your income, outgoings and credit profile
• What deposit you’ll need and whether your savings are enough
• How much your monthly repayments will be and how different rates will affect your budget
• Which lenders are suitable for your situation, especially if you’re self-employed or have a less-than-perfect credit history
• What documents you need to prepare, such as ID, bank statements, payslips or tax returns
At Helen Ferneyhough Associates, we often help buyers get “mortgage ready” months in advance of their application—giving them time to tidy up their credit files, save more towards fees or reduce their debts to improve affordability.
What Does the Mortgage Process Look Like?
Many people think the mortgage comes after you’ve found a home. But in reality, it starts much earlier when buying a house.
Here’s how we support clients through the early stages:
1. Initial Consultation – We get to know you, your financial position, and what you’re aiming for.
2. Affordability Assessment – We calculate how much you could borrow and what kind of monthly repayments you’d be looking at.
3. Decision in Principle (DIP) – We can apply for this on your behalf. It’s a lender’s indication that they’re willing to lend based on the basic information provided.
4. Tailored Mortgage Search – We scour the market for the most suitable product based on your needs—whether that’s a fixed-rate deal, a tracker, or something more flexible.
5. Application Preparation – We guide you through the paperwork, making sure everything is accurate and ready for submission once you’ve found the right property.
This process gives you a huge advantage. When you do find the home you love, you’ll be in a position to move quickly—and with confidence.
Can’t I Just Do It Myself?
You can. But much like trying to fix a leaky pipe without a plumber, doing it yourself often leads to confusion, unnecessary stress, or mistakes that cost you later down the line.
Comparison websites may give you a sense of the deals out there, but they don’t tell the full story. Many products have hidden criteria, fees, or eligibility restrictions that a first-time buyer might miss. And they won’t help you understand how lenders assess affordability or what to do if your credit history includes missed payments or defaults.
As mortgage advisors, we have access to a wide panel of lenders—including those who specialise in helping buyers buying a house with more complex circumstances. We also understand how to package your application so that it meets the lender’s expectations the first time around—helping to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
Planning Beyond the Mortgage
When you work with Helen Ferneyhough Associates, we also guide you through other important parts of the process of buying a house, including:
• Understanding solicitor and surveyor costs
• Budgeting for stamp duty and insurance
• Preparing for life after the move, including protection and budgeting advice
We believe in a supportive, step-by-step approach, particularly for first-time buyers who want someone to hold their hand through the process. We’re not just here for the paperwork—we’re here for the whole journey.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re thinking about buying a house — or moving up the property ladder—the best thing you can do is start with a conversation. Getting expert mortgage advice early ensures you’re ready to act when the time comes.
At Helen Ferneyhough Associates, we’re proud to offer personalised, jargon-free mortgage advice tailored to your unique goals and circumstances. Whether you’re months away from applying or ready to go now, we’re here to help you prepare, plan, and purchase with confidence.
Get in touch with us today to start your journey.
Important Notices
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount of the fee will depend upon your circumstances but will range from £195 to £1500, and this will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
