Category Archives: Uncategorized

Yes – and here’s what you need to know.
If you’re currently on maternity leave and wondering whether it’s even possible to get a mortgage right now – you’re not alone.
We get this question a lot at HLC Mortgages, and the good news is: yes, you absolutely can apply for a mortgage while on maternity leave.
But, like with anything mortgage-related, there are a few things to be aware of – and some key steps you can take to make the process smoother.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, or looking to remortgage, here’s everything you need to know about securing a mortgage during maternity leave.

If you’re over 55 and own your home, you’ve probably heard the term equity release—maybe on the radio, TV ads, or through a friend. But what exactly is equity release, and more importantly, is it a good idea?

Changing your mortgage, or remortgaging, simply means switching from your current mortgage deal to a new one. This could be with your current lender or a completely different one.

When people think about putting down a deposit for a house, they usually imagine saving up tens of thousands of pounds in cash over many years. And yes—having a traditional savings pot is one way to do it. But what if we told you there are other, lesser-known ways to raise a deposit and get onto the property ladder faster?

When it comes to choosing a mortgage, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. If you’re looking at your options and wondering “What is a tracker mortgage?”—you’re not alone. With interest rates and mortgage deals constantly changing, it’s important to understand how each type of mortgage works so you can make the right choice for your situation.
In this blog, we’ll break down what a tracker mortgage is, how it works, the pros and cons, and who it might be right for.

Remortgaging can be a smart financial move—whether you’re looking to save money, release equity, or switch to a more suitable deal. But jumping into a new mortgage without doing your homework could cost you more in the long run. Before signing on the dotted line, it’s important to ask the right questions and fully understand your options.

Spoiler: yes – and here’s how.
When it comes to getting a mortgage, there are two routes: you can go it alone and try to figure it all out yourself… or you can work with a mortgage advisor or broker to guide you through it.
But the big question on many people’s minds is:
Will using a mortgage broker actually save me money – or will it just cost me more?
It’s a fair question – and one we hear a lot at HLC Mortgages. So, in this article, we’ll break down exactly how a good mortgage advisor (like us!) can potentially save you time, stress, and – most importantly – a lot of money over the life of your mortgage.
Let’s dive in.

It’s not just about protecting your home — it’s about protecting your future.
When you’re applying for a mortgage, there’s a lot to think about — interest rates, deposits, monthly payments… and then someone brings up critical illness cover, and you wonder: Do I really need that too?
It’s a fair question — and one we get asked a lot. So, in this article, we’ll explain what critical illness cover actually is, how it works, and whether it’s something you should seriously consider when taking out a mortgage.
Let’s break it down simply, without the jargon.

Is it time to make the move from tenant to homeowner?
If you’ve ever found yourself debating whether it’s better to rent or buy a home, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear – and it’s a big decision, especially with property prices, interest rates, and living costs on everyone’s minds.
Renting can offer flexibility, but long-term? Owning your home often comes with major advantages – both financially and emotionally.
In this blog, we break down the key differences between owning and renting over the long haul, and why buying a property might be one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make.

What to do (and what to avoid) to give your application the best chance of success.
Applying for a mortgage can feel like navigating a maze – full of forms, financial jargon, and fine print. But with the right prep (and a few insider tips), it doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing.
At HLC Mortgages, we guide people through this process every day, and we’ve seen what works – and what causes unnecessary delays or declines.
So, here are 10 essential do’s and don’ts to help you feel confident and prepared when it’s time to apply for your mortgage.