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Mortgage & Protection Guides
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Mortgage Insight
Welcome to our Mortgage Insight section — where we break down the latest mortgage trends, news, and expert opinions to help you stay ahead of the curve.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or just keeping an eye on the market, this is where you'll find deep dives into everything affecting the mortgage world today.


How the War in Iran Is Affecting UK Mortgage Rates in 2026
A lot has changed very quickly for UK mortgage borrowers over the past six weeks. Since the US and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on 28 February 2026, mortgage rates have jumped, hundreds of products have been pulled from the market and the Bank of England rate cuts that everyone was expecting have been put on hold. If you are coming to the end of a fixed-rate deal, thinking about remortgaging, or trying to buy a home right now, this guide explains what is happ
Liam Drummond
3 days ago7 min read


What Documents Do I Need to Apply for a Mortgage?
Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially when lenders start asking for documents. Knowing what is required in advance can make the process far smoother and reduce delays or stress. While exact requirements vary between lenders and individual circumstances, most mortgage applications in the UK follow a similar structure. Below is a clear guide to the documents you are likely to need and why lenders ask for them. Proof of income Proof of income is one of the mo
Liam Drummond
Dec 19, 20252 min read


Self-Employed Mortgages: How Lenders Really Assess Your Income
If you are self-employed and trying to get a mortgage, you have probably heard something along the lines of "it is harder for you than someone who is employed." That is partially true, but it is also a bit misleading. The reality is that self-employed mortgages are not harder; they are just different. The lender is doing the same assessment; they just need to look at your income differently. And how they do that varies enormously from one lender to the next. This guide explai
Liam Drummond
Dec 11, 20257 min read


Can You Get a Mortgage Without an EWS1 Form in 2025
If you have ever considered buying a flat in a block with cladding, you already know how confusing the EWS1 situation can be. Some people say you need it. Some say you do not. Some say it is impossible to get. Others say their mortgage sailed through without anyone mentioning it. So, what is actually true in 2025, and can you still get a mortgage without this form? Let’s clear it all up in simple, friendly language. So What Is the EWS1 Form and Why Does Everyone Mention It An
Liam Drummond
Nov 17, 20253 min read


Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor Mortgages: How Parents Can Help Their Child Buy
Getting onto the property ladder has never been easy, and for a lot of young buyers right now, it is genuinely hard. Mortgage affordability is tight, property prices in areas like Oxford and Bicester are well above the national average, and saving a deposit while paying rent takes years. Many parents want to help, but going on the deeds of their child's property brings its own complications. A joint borrower sole proprietor mortgage, which solves this problem neatly, lets you
Liam Drummond
Nov 17, 20255 min read


What is the difference between a mortgage in principle and a full mortgage offer?
Buying a home is exciting, but it can also feel confusing with all the jargon you come across. Two phrases that often cause a bit of head scratching are Mortgage in Principle and Full Mortgage Offer . They sound similar, but they mean very different things, and it is worth understanding the difference so you know where you stand in the buying process. What is a Mortgage in Principle? A Mortgage in Principle, sometimes called an Agreement in Principle or Decision in Principle
Liam Drummond
Aug 27, 20253 min read


Is It Ever Too Late to Get a Mortgage?
Many people assume that once you hit your 60s, your chances of getting a mortgage drop dramatically. In reality, age isn’t the barrier...
Liam Drummond
Jun 4, 20254 min read


Oxford HMO Investments: Why the Right Mortgage Matters More Than Ever
Planning to invest in a House in Multiple Occupation in Oxford? Here’s what to expect and how to finance it properly. What will be...
Liam Drummond
Jun 2, 20254 min read


Limited Company vs Personal Name Buy-to-Let Mortgages: Pros and Cons Explained
If you’re planning to invest in a buy-to-let property in Oxford or anywhere in the UK, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is...
Liam Drummond
May 31, 20253 min read


Mortgage Broker Bicester | Expert Local Mortgage Advice
Looking for a reliable mortgage broker in Bicester ? Whether you're buying your first home, moving house, switching mortgage products, investing in a buy-to-let property, or financing a commercial space, Drummonds Finance Group is here to guide you through every step of the mortgage journey. 🎁 Get Free Advice – No obligation, expert mortgage consultations for everyone.➡️ Contact us today Why Choose a Local Mortgage Broker in Bicester? Working with a local Bicester mortgage
Liam Drummond
Apr 22, 20253 min read


Can a Mortgage Broker Help If I Have Bad Credit?
Many people ask, Can I get a mortgage with bad credit? If you’ve got a less-than-perfect credit score, applying for a mortgage might feel intimidating. But here’s the good news: yes, a mortgage broker can help you even if you have bad credit—and in many cases, they might be the key to getting you a deal you didn’t think was possible. Straight Answer: Yes, They Can Help Mortgage brokers are experts in navigating complex financial situations, including adverse credit. Whether y
Liam Drummond
Apr 13, 20253 min read


Can You Get a Mortgage with Adverse Credit?
Can You Still Get a Mortgage with Adverse Credit? In many cases, yes. Having adverse credit does not automatically stop you from getting a mortgage, but it does affect which lenders are suitable. Some high street lenders may say no straight away. Others, including specialist lenders, will look at the full picture. That includes how long ago the credit issue happened, whether it has been settled, and how your finances look today. This is where a whole of market broker makes a
Liam Drummond
Mar 26, 20253 min read


Local Mortgage Broker in Oxford & Bicester Could Be Your Smartest Move.
Best Mortgage Broker Oxfordshire If you are looking for a trusted mortgage broker in Oxford or Bicester, getting the right advice from the start can make a huge difference. Whether you are buying your first home, moving house, remortgaging, or investing in property, expert guidance helps you secure the right mortgage for your circumstances. At Drummonds Finance Group, we provide clear, professional mortgage advice to clients across Oxford, Bicester, and the surrounding areas.
Liam Drummond
Mar 18, 20252 min read


UK Mortgage Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you'll ever make, and understanding the UK mortgage market is crucial. Whether you're a first-time buyer, moving home, or remortgaging, this guide will help you navigate the process and make informed decisions. 1. What is a Mortgage? A mortgage is a loan secured against a property. You borrow money from a lender (such as a bank or building society) and repay it over time, typically 25-40 years, with interest. If you fa

Drummonds Financial Group
Feb 19, 20253 min read
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