Small Steps That Make a Big Difference Before Remortgaging
For many households across the UK, remortgaging has become one of the most important financial decisions of the year. With thousands of fixed-rate deals due to expire in 2025, homeowners face the prospect of moving onto their lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR)—often much higher than the deal they’ve been on.
But here’s the good news: a few simple steps taken early can save you money, stress, and time when it comes to finding your next mortgage.
Why Remortgaging Matters Now
The Bank of England’s base rate currently sits at 4%, with lenders continuing to adjust their products accordingly. While this is lower than the peaks we saw in 2023 and 2024, it still means that many households will see their repayments rise when they come off fixed rates agreed during the ultra-low-rate years.
Energy bills are also rising again, food prices remain high, and inflation is stubbornly above target. All of this makes it more important than ever to prepare properly before approaching a lender for your remortgage.
Step 1: Check Your Credit Profile
Lenders will look at your credit history to help decide whether to offer you a new mortgage deal—and at what rate. Simple actions such as:
- Reviewing your credit report for errors.
- Registering on the electoral roll.
- Avoiding unnecessary new credit applications in the months before you remortgage.
These small adjustments can strengthen your profile and improve the deals available to you.
Step 2: Organise Your Paperwork Early
Nothing slows down a mortgage application like missing documents. Before you start the remortgage process, gather:
- Recent payslips or self-employed income accounts.
- Latest bank statements.
- Identification documents (passport, driving licence).
- Proof of address (utility bill, council tax).
Having these ready means your application can move quickly, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Step 3: Review Your Outgoings
Affordability isn’t just about your income—it’s about how much you spend. Lenders will factor in your monthly commitments, from loan repayments to childcare costs.
This is a good opportunity to review your budget:
- Could you cut unused subscriptions?
- Are there better deals available for utilities, insurance, or broadband?
- Can you reduce discretionary spending in the short term?
Even small changes can improve your affordability assessment and open up more options with lenders.
Step 4: Start Early
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is leaving their remortgage too late. Most lenders allow you to secure a new deal up to six months before your current one ends. Acting early means:
- You avoid the risk of rolling onto a higher SVR.
- You can “lock in” a rate now, with the option to switch if a better deal becomes available before completion.
- You give yourself time to compare options properly, rather than rushing into the first offer.
Step 5: Get Expert Advice
The mortgage market is constantly shifting, with lenders regularly adjusting their affordability criteria and stress testing. What wasn’t possible a year ago might be achievable today.
A mortgage broker like Prospect Tree Mortgages can:
- Search across a wide panel of lenders to find the most suitable options for your circumstances.
- Advise on which lenders are more flexible with income types, credit history, or affordability rules.
- Save you time by handling the paperwork and negotiations.
- Help you plan not just for today, but for future rate changes or lifestyle shifts.
The Bottom Line
Remortgaging doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require preparation. By taking a few small steps now—checking your credit, organising documents, reviewing spending, starting early, and seeking expert advice—you can make a big difference to your financial security.
Whether your fixed deal is ending soon or you simply want to explore whether a better rate is available, taking action today could save you thousands over the life of your mortgage.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Prospect Tree Mortgages to review your options and secure a deal that works for you.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. The information contained within was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change (correct as of 24 September 2025).
What’s Next?
If you’re thinking about moving home, remortgaging, or buying your first property, now is a great time to review your mortgage options. At Prospect Tree Mortgages, we’re here to help you understand your choices and find the best mortgage for your situation.
Get in touch with our expert advisors today to discuss how this base rate cut could benefit you. We aim to ensure you make the most of the opportunities available.
Call us at 0800 8620 840 or visit our website at www.ptmortgagesltd.co.uk to learn more.
If you’d like to learn more about mortgage products and how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We’re here to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of mortgages and guide you toward a brighter, greener home.