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Guides & insights

Mortgage and protection guides, in plain English

Practical answers to the questions our clients ask most - written by our advisers, not a content farm.

Protection

Life Insurance vs Income Protection: Which Do You Need for a Mortgage?

Compare life insurance and income protection for your mortgage, including what each policy covers and when a combination may be suitable.

6 October 2026 17 min read
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Self-employed

Contractor Mortgages: How Day-Rate Income Can Be Used to Calculate What You Can Borrow

Understand how lenders can annualise contractor day-rate income and assess your contract, IR35 position and mortgage affordability.

29 September 2026 16 min read
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Self-employed

Can Mortgage Lenders Use Retained Profits? A Guide for Limited Company Directors

How lenders assess salary, dividends and retained company profits when a limited company director applies for a mortgage.

22 September 2026 17 min read
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Remortgage

Product Transfer vs Remortgage: Which Is Better in 2026?

Compare product transfers and remortgages, including rates, fees, affordability checks and when to review your existing mortgage deal.

15 September 2026 17 min read
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First-time buyers

How Much Deposit Do I Need for a Mortgage in 2026? 5%, 10% and LTV Explained

You will usually need at least 5% of the property price, though 10% or more can open up better rates. Here is how deposit size and LTV work in 2026.

11 September 2026 12 min read
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Bad credit

Can I Get a Mortgage With Bad Credit? UK Guide to Defaults, CCJs and Missed Payments

Defaults, CCJs and missed payments do not automatically rule out a mortgage. Here is how UK lenders view adverse credit and what improves your chances.

4 September 2026 16 min read
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Self-employed

Self-Employed Mortgage: How Many Years' Accounts Do You Need?

Most UK lenders want two years' accounts, but some will consider one year. Here is how sole traders, company directors and contractors are assessed.

28 August 2026 12 min read
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First-time buyers

How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage in the UK? 2026 Affordability Guide

A common starting point is 4 to 4.5 times your annual income, but lenders also weigh your debts, spending, deposit, credit history and mortgage term.

21 August 2026 13 min read
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