What First-Time Buyers Need to Know This Summer And How to Be Prepared

Summer 2025 presents a rare opportunity for first-time buyers. Lenders are reintroducing 100 % mortgages, increasing income multiples, and easing affordability tests. While this may help those struggling to save for a deposit, thorough preparation is essential. If you are considering buying your first home this summer, here is what to know and how to get ready.

Understand the New Mortgage Landscape

Several lenders, including April Mortgages and Gable Mortgages, have launched 100 %, meaning buyers can borrow the full value of a property without any deposit if they meet strict criteria¹.

Gable Mortgages offers a five year fixed rate of approximately 5.95%  for standard properties and 5.65% for newbuild homes¹. Other lenders, including Skipton, Barclays and Halifax, are launching or reintroducing similar no deposit products.

Get Your Finances in Order

Before applying, especially for First-Time Buyers, you need to present a strong financial profile. Lenders will assess the following carefully:

1. Your credit report, ensuring it contains no errors.
2. Your existing debts, including credit cards and loans.
3. Clear and documented bank transaction history, showing consistent income and no unexplained withdrawals or gambling transactions.
4. Your rental payment history, as some lenders use this as proof of affordability.

Your mortgage adviser can guide you in cleaning up your financial records, advising on what is acceptable and what could harm your application.

Secure a Mortgage in Principle

A mortgage in principle is a preliminary agreement from a lender based on your income and credit profile. It provides clarity on how much you might be able to borrow and shows estate agents and vendors that you are a serious buyer. Crucially, a mortgage in principle arranged by your adviser will not affect your credit rating.

Consider the Total Costs

Buying your first home involves more costs than just the purchase price. You should budget for:

• Solicitor and conveyancing fees
• Valuation and survey costs
• Possible mortgage arrangement fees (some lenders allow these to be added to the loan)
• Stamp duty, though many firsttime buyers pay little or none 
• Home insurance and life or income protection, which your adviser can help to include in a review

Your mortgage adviser can help plan these costs to avoid financial surprises later on.

Understand the Risks

Zero deposit mortgages come with higher interest rates and a greater risk of negative equity should house prices fall. Ask your adviser to stress test your budget against repayment rates increasing by 1% or 2%. This helps ensure you can comfortably meet repayments, even if economic conditions change. Vital for First-Time Buyers.

Speak to Your Mortgage Adviser Early

Preparation is key. Your mortgage adviser can:

• Help you understand which nodeposit and low deposit options you qualify for
• Run credit and affordability health checks
• Explain the implications of higher interest and monthly costs
• Advise on protection policies to safeguard your financial commitments
• Keep track of repayment buffers, interest rises and building equity

With 100% mortgages and flexible lending returning this summer, the time to act is now. Speaking to a mortgage adviser if you are First-Time Buyers early will ensure you approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Sources:

1. Mortgage Solutions (2025). Gable Mortgages enters market with 100% LTVs. Available at: https://www.mortgagesolutions.co.uk/news/2025/05/20/gable-mortgages-enters-market-with-100-ltvs/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025]. 
2. For more information go to Mortgage – The Finance House

‌Your home/property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 3^rd July 2025. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Home Insurance and Emergency Cover: Are You Protected for Summer Risks?

Summer should be a season of rest, sunshine and barbecues rather than worry about your home. Yet the warm months can bring specific risks that many homeowners overlook. Leaving windows open, hosting garden parties, holiday travel and the strain of burst pipes from evening temperature drops all bring hazards. Now is the time to check that your home insurance and emergency cover are fit for purpose.

Summer Risk Checklist

It is important to consider the main summer threats your home might face and whether your policy provides adequate protection:

Accidental damage
This includes mishaps like breaking a window or damaging internal walls during DIY. Most standard policies exclude this unless the option is added separately¹.

Fire
BBQs, patio heaters and outdoor fires may seem harmless but pose serious risks. Check that your policy covers fire damage from such activities, especially close to the house.

Theft
Gardening tools, outdoor furniture or bicycles can be attractive targets when left outside, especially when homes are unoccupied on holidays.

Water leaks or burst pipes
Summer showers or heater malfunctions can cause sudden water damage. Most buildings policies include sudden leaks but may not cover the cost of locating the leak unless that option is added².

Storm or weather damage
Extreme weather and storms remain a threat even in summer. Structural damage from fallen branches or flooding is normally covered, but you should confirm the level of excess and limits of your policy.

Policy Add-Ons to Consider

Many homeowners are unaware of additional options that could prove vital:

• Garden theft cover
  Standard contents policies may exclude items kept outside, yet these can be stolen. 
• Home emergency cover
  This protects against urgent issues such as burst pipes, boiler breakdowns, electrical faults or roof damage. It typically includes callout fees, labour costs and basic parts with a capped limit per claim³ .
  A recent review shows that adding emergency cover may cost just about £40 to £50 annually, yet it can save hundreds if a tradesperson is needed out of hours⁴.

Why You Should Review Annually

An annual checkin on your buildings and contents cover is advisable, particularly ahead of the summer season:

• In 2024, The average UK home insurance premium was £395 per year, an alltime high due to the rise in weather damage claims⁵.
• Claims for escaped water account for about 29 per cent of all claims, making sure you are adequately covered is incredibly important⁶.
• Some policies may include emergency cover automatically but place caps on callout costs or number of claims. It is best practice to check both your insurer’s terms and your policy schedule regularly.

How Your Mortgage Adviser Can Help

We can help you review your protection alongside your mortgage to ensure everything is in place. This can save you from unwelcome surprises and allow you to act swiftly if the unexpected happens. When you discuss the summer risks and your cover, we can:

• Check whether your mortgage and insurance policies are consistent
• Confirm that substantial home improvements or contents changes are covered
• Help you decide if you should add emergency cover or accidental damage protection
• Advise on whether your insurance excess and caps are appropriate for your home and budget

Final Word

Summer should be about enjoyment, not worry. Take a few moments during June or July to tick off your Home Insurance protection checklist. Do you have accidental damage cover, burglary protection, water leak cover, storm damage safeguard and emergency callout insurance? And are your home insurer and mortgage adviser both fully aware of what you need? If you are unsure or would like reassurance, speak to your mortgage adviser today. Ensuring your protection is aligned with your mortgage can give you peace of mind and keep both your home and your finances secure.

Sources:

1. Directline.com. (2020). Accidental Damage Cover: What’s Included? [online] Available at: https://www.directline.com/home-cover/magazine/accidental-damage [Accessed 25 Jun. 2025].
2. 0800homefix.  (2024). 0800homefix.. Available at: https://www.0800homefix.com/plumbing/does-building-insurance-cover-leaks-navigating-policy-details-for-water-damage-claims/ [Accessed 25 Jun. 2025].
3. Gocompare.com. (2024). Plumbing and Drainage Insurance Cover | GoCompare. Available at: https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/home-emergency-cover/plumbing-and-drainage/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
4. The Sun (2024). Is home emergency cover worth it? We explain whether insurance is an alternative…  Available at: https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/30062726/home-emergency-cover-insurance-worthwhile/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
5. Abi.org.uk. (2024). More action needed to protect properties as adverse weather takes record toll on insurance claims in 2024  Available at: https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2025/2/more-action-needed-to-protect-properties-as-adverse-weather-takes-record-toll-on-insurance-claims-in-2024/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025]. 
6. MorganClark (2020). Home insurance claim statistics 2021. Available at: https://www.morganclark.co.uk/about-us/blog/uk-home-insurance-claim-statistics/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
7. For more infomation, go to Protection – The Finance House

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 3^rd July 2025. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Mortgage Timebomb: Could Your Monthly Repayments Be About to Soar?

Millions of households across the country are heading for a financial jolt as their fixed-rate mortgage deals start to come to an end and your repayments Be About to Soar?. These deals were often taken out during the pandemic when interest rates were at record lows. Now, with those rates no longer available, many borrowers could see their monthly repayments rise sharply¹.

The average household switching from a fixed-rate mortgage in the coming two years is projected to see a monthly increase of £146. That may not sound much in isolation, but for households already feeling the pinch, it could be the tipping point¹. 

This change will affect many borrowers between now and the end of 2026 Repayments as repayments be About to Soar?. If you are one of them, it is important to understand what is coming and to act now before the pressure begins to build.

What You Need to Do Right Now

The first step is to check when your existing mortgage deal ends. If you are within 6 to 12 months of expiry, you should speak to your mortgage adviser straight away. Getting early advice can make a big difference. There may be opportunities to secure a new deal well in advance, helping you avoid last-minute panic and potentially saving you money.

Your adviser can help you review your current rate, compare what is available on the market, and ensure your next step is the right one for your personal circumstances.

Be Prepared for Higher Monthly Payments

If you took out a mortgage during the pandemic, it is likely you have been enjoying a very low interest rate. With those deals ending, you may find your repayments increase substantially. This is particularly true if you move on to your lender’s standard variable rate without arranging a new deal.

Your mortgage adviser can help you stress-test your budget to see what future repayments might look like. This means calculating how your monthly payments could change, giving you time to adjust your finances before any increases take effect.

Is Your Income Protected?

As monthly payments rise, more households will be operating with smaller financial safety nets. That is why it is important to consider how you would continue to meet your repayments if your income were to fall due to illness, injury, or redundancy.

Income protection and mortgage payment cover can offer a financial lifeline in difficult times. These types of policies are designed to help cover essential costs like your mortgage if the unexpected happens. Speak to your adviser about what protection options are available and which ones might be suitable for you.

Why You Should Not Wait

The mortgage market is already becoming busier. Many borrowers are looking to remortgage early, which could lead to delays later in the year. By acting now, you can beat the rush and give yourself the best chance of securing a good deal.

Some lenders allow you to reserve a mortgage rate in advance. That means you may be able to secure today’s rates even if your current deal does not end for a few more months.

Your mortgage adviser will be able to tell you whether this is an option and help you navigate the process and help if your repayments Repayments Be About to Soar?

In Summary

If your mortgage deal is ending within the next year, now is the time to act. Speak to your mortgage adviser to:

• Review your current deal and find out when it ends
• Understand how your repayments may change
• Explore new mortgage deals ahead of time
• Consider income protection or mortgage payment cover

The sooner you start planning, the more options you are likely to have. A quick conversation now could prevent a costly shock later.

Sources:

1. The Independent (2024). Mortgages: Bank of England warns costs will jump for millions by end of 2027. Available at: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/best-mortgage-rates-deals-price-b2655926.html [Accessed 25 Jun. 2025].
2. For more information go to Mortgage – The Finance House

‌Your home/property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 3^rd July 2025. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Simple Summer Projects That Could Add Thousands to Your Home’s Value

Summer is the perfect time to tackle those home improvements you have been putting off. But instead of just ticking off a list of repairs, why not focus on the projects that can actually add value to your property? Add Thousands to Your Home’s Value.

Whether you are planning to sell soon or simply want to enhance your living space, these simple updates could increase your home’s appeal and potentially boost its value by thousands of pounds.

Freshen Up the Exterior with a Coat of Paint

The outside of your home is the first thing anyone sees, and a tidy, well-maintained exterior makes a lasting impression. Painting your front door, window frames or external woodwork can dramatically improve kerb appeal. According to several property experts, a smart and clean-looking exterior could add £15,000 to a home’s value, depending on the scale of the work and the existing condition of the property¹.

These types of jobs are ideal for summer, as dry, warm days help paint and treatments to set properly. They are also low-cost, often requiring little more than a weekend of effort and a few cans of quality paint. If you are repainting near open walls, fences or doors, remember to check that fire alarms remain active and that you are not doing anything that might affect your home insurance without informing your provider.

Tidy Up Your Patio or Decking Area

Outdoor spaces are a big selling point, especially during the summer. Cleaning up your patio or refreshing your decking can make your garden far more usable and attractive. Tasks like replacing broken slabs, power-washing surfaces, sanding and re-staining decking, or adding simple lighting features can transform a tired space into a relaxing retreat.

Well-maintained gardens can contribute as much as 5% to a property’s sale value¹. For a home valued at £300,000, that could mean a potential boost of £15,000 . Before carrying out any electrical work outdoors, always use a qualified professional and check that your home insurance policy covers outdoor fixtures.

Add Loft Insulation for Year-Round Savings

Loft insulation might not be the most glamorous summer project, but it is one of the most cost-effective. Adding or upgrading insulation can help reduce heat loss during winter and keep your home cooler in the summer. Studies suggest that homeowners can save up to  £790 a year on their energy bills after insulating a poorly insulated loft².

Although the cost of professional insulation varies depending on the size and accessibility of the space, it is an investment that can pay for itself within a few years. Summer is an ideal time to get this work done because loft spaces are dry and easier to access when temperatures are higher.

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to manage their heating more efficiently. These devices allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely and can adjust automatically to your habits. Some models can even detect when windows are left open and respond accordingly.

The cost of a smart thermostat device typically ranges from £110 to £300, and installation may cost a further £70 to £150 depending on the complexity of your heating system. Homeowners often save between 10%-15% a year on energy bills, and smart technology can add up to 2% to 5% of the property’s value³. 

If you are considering installing a smart thermostat, make sure your boiler is compatible and use a certified engineer. You should also let your home insurer know about the upgrade, as it may affect your policy.

Before You Begin: Safety and Financial Considerations

Before starting any improvement project, when trying to add Thousands to Your Home’s Value, test your smoke alarms and check that you are not invalidating your insurance policy. This is particularly important if you are doing DIY or using external tradespeople. If you are planning structural work, installing new wiring or making major upgrades, you may also need to notify your local authority or mortgage provider.

This is where your mortgage adviser can help. If you are making significant changes to your home, it is always best to check whether trying to add Thousands to Your Home’s Value will affect your mortgage terms, your insurance cover or your overall protection. An adviser can guide you on whether you need additional cover, whether a valuation will be affected, or whether now might be a good time to review your mortgage deal in light of your investment in the property. Add Thousands to Your Home’s Value

The Bottom Line

July is a great time to invest in your home and add Thousands to Your Home’s Value. From painting and patios to insulation and smart tech, there are projects that suit every budget and can boost the comfort, energy efficiency and value of your property. Just remember to plan carefully, stay safe, and always speak to your mortgage adviser before making any big decisions that could affect your finances or your cover.

Sources: 

1. The Sun (2025). 7 easy and cheap home improvements that could add £75,000 to your home…  Available at: https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/33358192/easy-cheap-cost-effective-home-improvements/ [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
2. EDF. (2024). Home Insulation Installs | Loft & Cavity Wall Insulation | EDF. Available at: https://www.edfenergy.com/heating/insulation#footnote-energy-saving-trust-home-insulation-costs [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
3. Homeadviceguide (2021). Understanding Smart Thermostat Installation Cost: A Complete Guide. Available at: https://www.homeadviceguide.com/smart-thermostat-installation-cost/  [Accessed 24 Jun. 2025].
4. For more mortgage information, go to Mortgage – The Finance House

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 3^rd July 2025. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.