Top 3 Do's and Don'ts when it comes to getting a mortgage

1. Don’t rely on using a single credit reference agency for checking your credit report. Use a multi agency report such as Checkmyfile because it compares your data for all three agencies in one simple report, and lenders use different agencies! You can check yours for free here just cancel in 30 days to avoid charge

2. Do you take the time to fully understand your own financial situation and your options. There is nothing worse than having to rush and you could potentially be left disappointed because you didn’t get access to the right information at the right time

3. Don’t make an offer without having your mortgage agreed in principle first. Personally I wouldn’t book any viewings until you have had your affordability confirmed. If you make an offer without having this in place then you will likely have a mad rush to find a broker or a lender, get all your documents and start the process from there

4. Do try and be realistic. For many of you this will be your first home, not your forever home. If your dream home isn’t quite in reach, speak to a broker who can search the market for any schemes to boost your affordability and make a plan from there. If you are a home mover you’ll need to get your current home valued, and request a mortgage statement from your current lender so you can work out the potential equity you will have for your onward purchase. Don’t forget to factor in costs such as stamp duty, legal fees and moving costs

5.Don’t apply for any new credit once you have received your mortgage offer. Lenders carry out a credit check before they release the funds to your solicitor to complete the purchase or remortgage. If you take out a new loan or credit commitment, it could affect the affordability and jeopardise the whole mortgage

6. Do get your affordability confirmed by a Bank or Broker, and in good time. That’s whether you are buying your first home or needing to remortgage