Questions we regulary get asked about mortgages

What is a mortgage broker and how can they help me?

I’m more than just a broker. I’m a mortgage adviser.

That means I don’t simply arrange a mortgage, I take the time to understand you. Your circumstances. Your plans. Your concerns.

I’ll explain your options clearly, recommend a mortgage that’s genuinely suited to your needs, and guide you through every step, from first conversation to completion.

No pressure. No scripts. Just advice you can trust.

Do I need to pay a fee to work with Inspire Mortgage Solutions?

Yes, and I’ll always be open and clear about this from the start.

In many cases, I’m paid a procuration fee by the lender once your mortgage completes. This is for the work I undertake on the lender’s behalf in arranging and progressing your mortgage.

In addition, a broker fee is payable on application, for the advice you receive and support to completion.

  • For most standard residential cases, the fee is up to £499
  • For more complex cases, including buy-to-let, the fee can be up to £699

Any fee:

  • Will be clearly explained before you decide to proceed
  • Will be confirmed in writing
  • Is payable on application
  • Is only charged if I am able to provide advice

The exact amount will depend on the complexity of your circumstances and the work involved, and this will always be agreed with you upfront.

There are no hidden charges and no unexpected costs.

You’ll always know what you’re paying, why it applies, and what support you’ll receive in return.

What types of mortgages do you offer?

I offer advice on a wide range of residential mortgages, including:

  • First-time buyer mortgages
  • Home mover mortgages
  • Remortgages
  • Buy-to-let mortgages
  • Shared ownership
  • Residential bridging (where appropriate)

In specialist areas such as equity release or commercial lending, advice is provided by trusted third-party partners. I work closely with these partners and refer clients to them, as they share Inspire Mortgage Solutions’ values of clarity, care, and professionalism.

How much can I borrow?

This depends on more than just income.

Lenders look at your earnings, outgoings, credit history, and the type of mortgage you’re applying for.

Online calculators can give a rough idea, but they don’t tell the full story. I’ll help you understand what’s realistic, and comfortable – for your life.

What documents do I need?

This varies depending on your situation, but usually includes:

  • Photo ID
  • Proof of address
  • Proof of income
  • Bank statements
  • Details of your deposit

If your income is more complex, we’ll talk through what’s needed in advance, so nothing feels rushed or overwhelming.

How long does the mortgage process take?

Timescales vary, but as a guide:

  • A decision in principle can often be arranged quickly
  • A full mortgage offer may take a few weeks

I’ll keep you updated throughout, explain what’s happening, and be there whenever questions come up.

Can I get a mortgage if my credit isn’t perfect?

Possibly, and this is more common than people think.

It depends on what happened, how long ago it was, and how things look now. I’ll talk it through with you sensitively and honestly and explore lenders who may be more understanding of your situation.

There’s no judgement here. Just options.

How can I improve my chances of being approved?

Often, it’s about preparation rather than rushing.

That might include checking your credit file, reducing certain commitments, or simply getting the timing right. I regularly help clients plan ahead so they’re in the strongest position when they’re ready to apply.

I am a First Time Buyer, where do I start?

Right here.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. Our first conversation is simply about understanding where you are, explaining the process clearly, and helping you see what’s possible.

No pressure to commit. Just clarity.

Do I need mortgage protection?

Protection isn’t a mandatory requirement by lenders, but it’s worth talking about.

It’s about making sure your home, income & family are supported if life takes an unexpected turn. We’ll explore what might be relevant for you, what feels affordable, and what gives you peace of mind.

No scare tactics. Just honest guidance.

I’m self-employed or in a partnership, how do I evidence my income?

This is a really common question and something I help many of my clients with.

If you’re a self-employed sole trader or part of a partnership, your income is evidenced through your Self-Assessment tax return, rather than payslips. While that can sound complicated, it’s usually very straightforward once you know what’s needed.

I’ll guide you through it step by step, and if you have an accountant, I’m happy to work directly with them to make things easier.

What documents do lenders usually ask for?

Most lenders will ask for the last 2–3 years of the following HMRC-produced documents:

  • SA302 Tax Calculations
  • Tax Year Overviews (TYO)

These two documents work together:

  • The SA302 confirms your declared income
  • The Tax Year Overview confirms the tax due and the tax paid

Together, they form your official evidence of income.

If you have an accountant

If you use an accountant, they can usually provide your:

  • SA302 Tax Calculations
  • Tax Year Overviews

 


Helpful tip:

With your consent, Inspire Mortgage Solutions can liaise directly with your accountant. A simple email introduction between you, us, and your accountant is usually enough.

This often:

  • Saves time
  • Reduces back-and-forth
  • Helps resolve queries quickly
  • Allows documents to be sent securely and directly

One less thing for you to manage.

If you complete your Self-Assessment yourself

If you submit your own tax return, you can access everything you need through your HMRC online account.

Here’s how to find your documents, step by step:

  1. Log into your HMRC online account
  2. Select Self-Assessment
    (If you’re only registered for Self-Assessment, you’ll be taken straight there)
  3. Choose View and manage your Self-Assessment tax return
  4. Select Get SA302 Tax Calculation and View your Tax Year Overview
  5. Click Continue to your SA302 Tax Calculation
  6. Scroll to the bottom of the page
  7. Select Print your full calculation
  8. Save or print the document as a PDF

Repeat the same steps to download your Tax Year Overview.

Accessing previous years

To download documents for earlier years:

  • Return to the Your Self-Assessment screen
  • Select View more previous years
  • Choose the relevant tax years
  • Download both the SA302 and Tax Year Overview for each year

If anything doesn’t look right, or you can’t find what you need, just let me know.

What really matters

Your income doesn’t need to look “standard” to be valid.

Lenders understand self-employment, especially when your application is prepared properly.

My role is to:

  • Explain exactly what applies to your situation
  • Help you prepare everything in advance
  • Work with lenders who understand self-employed income
  • Make the process feel manageable, not stressful


Gentle reassurance

If this already feels like a lot,  that’s completely normal.

You don’t need to have everything ready before reaching out.

Book a Clarity Call and we’ll talk it through calmly, at your pace and work out the next step together.

My situation feels complicated, can you still help?

Yes. Especially then.

Whether you’re self-employed, navigating a life change, rebuilding after a difficult period, or simply unsure where you stand, you’re exactly the kind of person Inspire was created to support.

If it feels messy or uncertain, you’re welcome here.

If you still have questions, that’s okay.

Most people do.

Book a Clarity Call and we’ll talk things through calmly, at your pace.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some forms of Buy to Lets.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss getting
a mortgage please get in contact today

Thank you
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