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No Deposit or Guarantor mortgage types: A Complete guide.

  • September 1, 2023

No Deposit or Guarantor Mortgage Types

The UK mortgage market, ever-evolving and expansive, offers a wide array of options tailored to different financial situations. Within this space, “No Deposit” and “Guarantor” mortgages have become increasingly popular, especially among first-time homebuyers and those with limited savings. Understanding these options can be the key to securing your dream home.

Couple being handed keys to first home

This document covers:

    • Introduction
    • No Deposit Mortgages
    • Guarantor Mortgages
    • Case Study
    • Which one is right for you?
    • FAQ

Introduction

Over the years, as the cost of living surged and the traditional 10% deposit became a distant dream for many, financial institutions had to innovate. Thus, emerged mortgage solutions like No Deposit and Guarantor mortgages, ensuring that the dream of homeownership remained accessible.

Distinct Features

– **No Deposit Mortgages**: As the name suggests, this mortgage type doesn’t require the borrower to put down any initial deposit. The lender provides 100% of the property’s value.

– **Guarantor Mortgages**: Here, a third party (usually a family member) vouches to cover the mortgage repayments should the borrower default. The guarantor’s assets or savings act as collateral.

Qualifying Criteria

For both mortgage types, lenders look beyond the standard credit score. They assess the borrower’s repayment capacity, existing debts, and, in the case of Guarantor mortgages, the guarantor’s financial stability.

Pros and Cons

Every coin has two sides, and so do these mortgage types. While they make homeownership accessible, they also come with potential pitfalls. It’s crucial to be aware and informed.

Comparison with Traditional Mortgages

Unlike the conventional 10% deposit mortgages, these options offer flexibility. However, the interest rates might be higher, reflecting the increased risk for lenders.

The Nitty-Gritty of No Deposit Mortgages

At the heart of this mortgage type lies a simple premise: enabling homeownership without initial savings. However, this also means that the entire property value is borrowed, leading to larger monthly repayments.

The 100% Mortgage Landscape

The majority of 100% LTV mortgage products disappeared following the 2007-2008 financial crisis. Nevertheless, in May 2023, Skipton Building Society made headlines by launching a 100% LTV mortgage product aimed at assisting first-time buyers currently renting their homes.

Known as the Track Record Mortgage, this product allows customers to buy a property with a 0% deposit without needing a family guarantor. This move signals a renewed confidence in the housing market and a commitment to getting first-time buyers onto the property ladder.

Eligibility Criteria for the Track Record Mortgage

To qualify for the Track Record Mortgage, applicants must satisfy several criteria.

    • Aged over 21
    • Current renters who have never owned a property
    • Pass an affordability assessment
    • Provide evidence of 12 months of on-time rent payments and a good credit history
    • Maximum loan of £600,000
    • New build flats are not currently eligible; however, new build houses and non-new build flats are eligible[^3^]

Diving Deep into Guarantor Mortgages

While it might sound like a breeze to have someone back your mortgage application, it’s a substantial responsibility. The guarantor, often a close relative, is legally bound to cover any missed repayments.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for these mortgages requires meticulous documentation. Lenders delve deep into the applicant’s (and guarantor’s) financial health, ensuring the loan’s security.

Case Study: John’s and Emily’s Journey

In the diverse world of the UK mortgage market, understanding the nuances of various mortgage types is critical. John and Emily, two young professionals, navigated this labyrinth, each choosing a different path. Their journeys shed light on the intricacies of No Deposit, Guarantor Mortgages, and the distinct Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor mortgage.

John’s Expedition with a No Deposit Mortgage

John, a 28-year-old software developer, had been living in a rented flat in London for six years. As he witnessed property prices soar, he realized that saving for the traditional 10% deposit would delay his dream of homeownership indefinitely. This led him to explore the No Deposit mortgage option.

The Process: John approached a lender who offered 100% of the property’s value without any upfront deposit. The lender assessed John’s credit history, monthly income, and expenditure. Given his stable job and lack of outstanding debt and showing he had a good track record with payments as a tenant and his

payments on the mortgage were less than he was paying as a tenant then he was considered a good candidate.

Remember though as 100% mortgages are higher risk to the lender then the interest rate will be higher than mortgages with a deposit. It is essential that the mortgage remains affordable. He is keen to get off the 100% mortgage deal as soon as practical so he can then move onto a more traditional mortgage and a lower rate once his current deal ends.

The Outcome: John managed to secure a mortgage for a cozy two-bedroom flat. Whilst he was now paying less then the rent he was previously paying on another property he needs to remember to put money aside for other costs such as service charge, ground rent and general other property related costs.

Challenges and Learnings: While the No Deposit option allowed him to bypass initial savings, it demanded financial discipline in the long run.

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Emily’s Dive into Guarantor Mortgages

Emily, John’s university mate and a freelance graphic designer, had fluctuating monthly earnings. Though she managed to save a bit, her inconsistent income posed a challenge for traditional mortgages. Enter the Guarantor Mortgage.

The Process: Emily’s father stepped in as a guarantor, using his own property as collateral. The lender evaluated both Emily’s and her father’s financial situation. The added security of the guarantor made Emily a favorable candidate.

The Outcome: With her father’s backing, Emily got her mortgage approved for a beautiful studio apartment in Bristol. The interest rate was slightly higher than conventional loans, reflecting the increased risk for lenders.

Challenges and Learnings: While Emily had the comfort of lower monthly repayments, her father’s role as a guarantor meant he was legally obligated to cover any missed repayments. It emphasized clear communication between Emily and her father regarding finances.

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John and Emily’s Discovery: The Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor Mortgage (JBSP)

During one of their catch-ups, John and Emily discussed another intriguing mortgage type – the Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor (JBSP) mortgage. Unlike the previous two mortgages aimed at low deposit clients, the JBSP targets those wishing to leverage family members’ income to obtain a higher mortgage amount.

The Mechanics: In a JBSP mortgage, family members come on board as joint borrowers. They pledge to cover the mortgage repayments if needed, allowing the primary borrower to secure a more substantial loan amount. The catch? Only the primary borrower owns the property, even though others are jointly responsible for the debt.

The Difference:

    • No Deposit Mortgage focuses on eliminating the need for an upfront deposit.
    • Guarantor Mortgage allows a third-party to provide a safety net for lenders, ensuring repayments if the borrower defaults.
    • JBSP Mortgage merges the financial capabilities of family members, increasing the loan amount without sharing property ownership.

Insights: While John and Emily didn’t opt for the JBSP mortgage, they realized its potential, especially for individuals aiming for properties beyond their immediate financial reach. The involvement of family members not as co-owners, but as co-borrowers, makes this mortgage type stand out.

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Through John’s and Emily’s journeys, we witness the diversity and flexibility of the UK mortgage market. Whether it’s bypassing a deposit, leaning on a family member for support, or leveraging combined incomes for a dream home, there’s a mortgage solution tailored for every unique need. The key is informed decision-making, understanding the implications, and aligning choices with long-term financial goals.

No Deposit vs. Guarantor Mortgages: What’s Right for You?

As this is often the first mortgage someone has taken out and being of more risk and complexity than a normal mortgage it is wise to seek advice through a mortgage broker. You can find them locally but do check out their reviews. Alternatively use a search provider like Unbiased or VouchedFor.

FAQs

– How do interest rates for these mortgages compare with traditional ones?

They generally tend to be higher due to the increased risk for lenders.

– What if the guarantor faces financial difficulties?

This could potentially affect the mortgage terms, and it’s essential to keep the lender informed.

– Can the guarantor be changed midway?

Typically, changing a guarantor mid-term is challenging and might require refinancing or renegotiation.

– Are there any specific tax implications?

The tax implications remain similar to traditional mortgages, but consulting a financial expert is always advisable.

– What happens if there’s a default?

In the case of a Guarantor mortgage, the guarantor’s assets might be at risk.

– Are there any hidden fees?

Always discuss potential fees upfront with the lender. Transparency is key.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of “No Deposit or Guarantor mortgage types in the UK” requires understanding, research, and careful consideration. With the right guidance and knowledge, these mortgages can open doors to new possibilities, ensuring that the dream of homeownership remains within reach for many.

Your home is at risk if you fail to keep up payments on your mortgage or any other loans secured against it. Buy to Let mortgages are not usually regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Compton Financial Services Ltd is an Appointed Representative of New Leaf Distribution Ltd. who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Number 460421. Head Office 165 – 167 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA. Co registration Number 5520001.