For some, owning a home has been portrayed through various media channels as a bridge too far however you may be closer to owning a property than you think.
Here are the key factors to consider if you wish to take the next step on your property journey:
Stable employment status
Buying a home and being granted a mortgage means you need income to meet the loan repayments. To make these repayments, lenders need to be confident that your income is stable and consistent. There are many ways in which employees are remunerated (base, bonus, commissions…) so every individual’s case is treated differently. Additionally, different lenders have different policies that will make them view your personal position more or less favourably. Simply put, if you have a consistent ongoing income, then there is a lender for you.
Saving a Deposit
Previous generations of first home buyers have always purchased with at least a 20% deposit. With the average house price rising sharply in proportion to average wages, getting to this 20% figure is harder than ever. Lenders have many products for borrowers that have a 10% deposit… in fact, the smallest deposit you would need would be just 5% in some instances.
Consistency, consistency, consistency
Another sign that you may be closer to buying than you think is that you can prove how you have saved the deposit. Having a consistent and transparent savings history is a sign to a lender that you have been diligent and can demonstrate genuine savings. This is looked upon favourably by lenders as you can show that you are not only responsible with your money, but also able to save the equivalent of the repayment per month.
The understanding of debt and being smart about it
Having a sufficient deposit is one thing however being aware of the way lenders view debt is another. Debt such as credit cards and car loans can directly influence a bank’s decision about granting you a loan. Lenders understand that debt such as these are necessary for some however being financially savvy can help you set in motion decisions on either keeping or paying off these debts prior to purchasing a home. This takes careful consideration but can certainly be a factor in placing you in a more favourable position of purchasing sooner than you think. A well maintained repayment history on an existing debt wont harm your application, however an existing debt where you have missed or made late repayments will.
Property is for the long run
Having a stable income, being aware of existing debt and proving you have a sufficient deposit saved are all very important factors when deciding to buy. Understanding that property is a long-term investment and that the first property doesn’t have to meet all requirements is the difference between a savvy buyer that makes the most out of opportunities as oppose to a unconfident buyer looking for endless reasons why not to purchase.
A discussion with the team at 40 Forty Finance can analyse your existing financial situation and provide information on potential barriers within your application.
