Mortgage guides and advice

From “We Didn’t Think It Was Possible” to a Family Home That Fits
Mr & Mrs C came to us feeling stuck. With a small deposit and some previous credit blips, they had already started to believe that

New Conveyancing Rules from May 2026: Why Stamp Duty Changes Could Impact Your Property Purchase
What’s Changing in May 2026? From 18 May 2026, the UK is introducing a major regulatory shift that will affect every property transaction involving Stamp

Being self-employed shouldn’t stop you from owning your home.
At Oak Mortgages, we help sole traders, directors, and business owners secure mortgages every day, even when income is complex. The key isn’t whether you’re

The Sun Is Out… Could It Be the Perfect Time to Make Your Move?
There’s something about the first stretch of sunshine that changes everything. The days feel longer, the mornings feel brighter, and suddenly those plans you’ve been

Mortgage Rates in 2026: What’s Happening and What It Means for You
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the property market recently, you’ll know things have shifted. Mortgage rates have climbed back above 5% (depending on

Can You Get a Mortgage While on Probation in a New Job?
Starting a new job should feel exciting, not stressful. But if you’re also thinking about buying a home, it’s completely normal to wonder: “Will being

20 Questions to Ask When Buying a Home
Buying your first home is one of the biggest (and most exciting) decisions you’ll ever make… But in the middle of viewings, offers, and emotions,

Why Specialist Lending Is So Important to the Housing Market
Over the last few years, the housing market has faced some real challenges. Rising interest rates, increased living costs, and tighter lending criteria have meant

Can You Borrow More on Your Mortgage to Make Your Home Energy Efficient?
With energy bills still a big concern for many households, improving the energy efficiency of your home is becoming a priority for homeowners across the

2 or 5 Year Fixed Mortgage? What Should You Choose When Your Rate Is Ending Soon?
If your mortgage deal is coming to an end in the next 6 months, now is the perfect time to start planning your next move.

Can First-Time Buyers Really Buy a Home with Just £10,000?
A Simple Guide to 98% Mortgages for First-Time Buyers Saving for a house deposit can feel like trying to fill a bath with the plug

Completion Day Explained: What Happens When You Finally Get the Keys?
If you’re buying your first home (or moving up the ladder), completion day is the moment it all becomes real. It’s the day you officially