Fix Ending Soon – How to Remortgage in Brighton and Hove Before Your Rate Jumps

If you live in Brighton or Hove and your fixed rate is ending, it can feel a bit like a ticking clock. You know something is coming, but you are not quite sure what to do or when to start.

The good news is that with a bit of planning, you can almost always avoid being dropped onto your lender’s standard variable rate and the payment shock that can come with it.

When should you start looking at remortgage options?

Most people underestimate how early they can begin. As a rough guide:

• Many lenders will let you secure a new deal up to 6 months before your current fix ends
• 3 to 4 months ahead is a very comfortable window to work in
• Leaving it until the last few weeks reduces your options and adds stress

Starting early does not mean you are committing to any one product straight away. It simply means you have time to compare options properly.

Step 1 – Check your current deal and expiry date

Dig out your original mortgage offer or log into your online account and find:

• The date your fixed rate ends
• What rate you will move onto afterwards (usually the SVR)
• Any early repayment charges and when they stop applying

This gives you the framework for planning.

Step 2 – Decide what you want your next few years to look like

Ask yourself:

• Am I likely to move within the next 2 to 5 years?
• Do I want the ability to overpay?
• How much certainty do I need in my payments with other costs rising?

For example, someone settled long-term in Hove might value a 5 year fix. Someone in a flat in central Brighton planning to upsize to Portslade in 2 or 3 years might want a shorter fix or more flexible product.

Step 3 – Check affordability with today’s income and spending

Lenders in 2025 remain very focused on affordability. Expect them to look at:

• Income – basic pay, bonuses, self-employed earnings
• Regular commitments – loans, credit cards, childcare
• Bank statements – showing how you actually spend and manage money

If your situation has changed since you last took a mortgage – for example a switch to self-employment or a new job – it is worth checking what is realistic before falling in love with a particular product.

Step 4 – Compare options from your current lender and others

Your existing lender may offer:

• A product transfer with less paperwork
• No new valuation in some cases

However, that is not a guarantee that it is the best deal available. Comparing across lenders can highlight:

• Lower rates for the same term
• Products that suit overpayments or changes you plan
• Deals that make better use of an improved loan-to-value band if your property value has risen

Step 5 – Get the timing right

When you apply, the idea is that:

• Your new rate starts the day after your existing fix ends
• There is no gap on to the SVR
• Direct debits are updated without interruption

Solicitors are sometimes needed for a full remortgage to a new lender, so building in a comfortable time buffer is important.

If you would like help lining up your dates and options, you can start things off through our contact page and we will walk you through it.