Mortgage Trends & News

By Ricky Gandhi | 1st Choice Mortgages If you are self-employed and thinking about getting a mortgage, you have probably heard that it is harder than it is for someone in employment. That is partly true — but it is not the full picture. The reality is that being self-employed does not stop you getting a mortgage. What it does mean is that self-employed mortgages in the UK require the right lender, the right preparation, and ideally a broker who understands how self-employed i

By Ricky Gandhi | 1st Choice Mortgages Securing a mortgage as a foreign national in the UK is about far more than having a healthy salary. It comes down to finding a lender whose specific criteria line up with your exact situation: your visa type, how long you have been resident in the UK, the size of your deposit, and how much they are prepared to lend against your income. At 1st Choice Mortgages, we work with clients from all over the world — on Skilled Worker visas, Spouse

Affordable housing has become a pressing issue across the UK, with many people struggling to find homes they can reasonably afford. Despite government promises and various schemes, the reality on the ground tells a different story. This post explores what affordable housing really means today, why it remains out of reach for many, and what factors contribute to the ongoing crisis. What Does Affordable Housing Mean in the UK? Affordable housing is often defined as housing that

Remortgaging can be a powerful financial move, but knowing when and why to do it makes all the difference. In 2026, changing economic conditions, interest rates, and personal circumstances create new opportunities and challenges for homeowners. This guide breaks down the key reasons to consider remortgaging this year and the best timing to make the switch. What Is Remortgaging and How Does It Work? Remortgaging means replacing your current mortgage with a new one, either with