Mortgages

Your next home and your mortgage

When buying your next home, your existing mortgage, the sale of your current home and the purchase come together. Their order and timing can significantly affect your financial flexibility.

Start with your current mortgage

Begin with the terms of your current loan: the outstanding amount, loan parts, fixed-rate period and term. An arrangement allowing you to take your interest rate terms with you when moving has its own conditions and deadlines. Do not assume your current rate will automatically apply to your next home. Even with the same lender, your new application may need to be assessed.

Coordinate your purchase and sale

It makes a difference whether you sell or buy first. An expected sale price is different from a completed sale. Discuss several scenarios: what happens if completion is delayed, the proceeds are lower than expected, or the new home becomes available earlier? An overview of the potential overlap helps establish how much financial reserve you need.

If bridging finance is considered, its terms, costs and repayment require a separate assessment. Bridging finance is not an automatic solution for every move.

Equity and your own funds

Equity is tied up in your home until you sell it or arrange finance against it. It is therefore not the same as immediately available savings. How you use sale proceeds and any tax consequences must also be assessed for your own circumstances. Include planned spending on the new home, so that all your available funds do not disappear into the purchase unnoticed.

  • Expected sale proceeds and the amount actually available.
  • Costs and payments while ownership of two homes overlaps.
  • A budget for renovations, moving and furnishings.
  • A buffer for delays or unexpected costs.

Review affordability again

Your life may have changed since your previous mortgage. Perhaps your working arrangements have changed, your family has grown or retirement is approaching. Make sure your new budget reflects your current plans. A higher property price need not be the only reason to review monthly payments. A different term or fixed-rate period can also change how your payments develop.

Discuss the timetable early

Have the details of your existing mortgage and the outline of your buying and selling plans to hand for a meeting. Also explain which deadlines are already fixed. RFD discusses which mortgage questions need attention and what work can be agreed. See the Mortgage service comparison card for general information about services and costs.

Moving is also a time to review home insurance and risks for your household. This page provides general considerations; it does not confirm finance or determine the tax outcome for your circumstances.

Before moving, also check the changes affecting your home insurance.

Services and comparison documents

The service comparison document describes our financial services and the stated costs. We agree the services and costs for your enquiry with you personally.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take my current interest rate with me?

That depends on your mortgage terms, the moving arrangement and the new assessment. Check the deadlines too; it is not an automatic right to the same financing.

Can I buy before my home is sold?

This requires an assessment of your funds, potential double housing costs and the terms of any temporary finance. Discuss the risks before taking on commitments.

Is all expected equity available immediately?

No. Expected proceeds are not yet money in your account. Timing, selling costs and completion determine which funds become available.

Do I need to change my insurance too?

A different address, building or family situation can affect cover. Review the changes in good time, with your policy details to hand.

This is general information. It is not personal financial advice, a promise of acceptance or confirmation of insurance cover. What is suitable and possible depends on your circumstances and the provider's terms. Read the disclaimer.

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What would you like to discuss?

Have a question about your mortgage, insurance or finance? We are happy to help.