Fixed or Tracker Mortgage in 2026? A Brighton & Hove Buyer’s Guide to Choosing Wisely One of the most searched mortgage questions right now is simple and stressful: “Should I choose a fixed rate or a tracker?” In April 2026, HomeOwners Alliance noted increasing uncertainty in mortgage rate direction and described how rate expectations can…

The Real Cost of Buying in Brighton & Hove: Stamp Duty, Fees & “Hidden” Extras Most buyers focus on the deposit, then get surprised by the rest. Here’s a clear breakdown of the typical upfront costs when buying in Brighton & Hove, including Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and the fees people forget. Stamp Duty…

Letting a fixed rate expire can be an expensive mistake. Here is a simple timeline to keep you off SVR and on a deal that fits your plans. 6 months out – information and options 4 months out – documents and valuation 3 months out – apply and lock 1 month out – coordinate completion…

First‑Time Buyer Schemes in Brighton & Hove (2026): What Still Helps & What to Watch If you’re trying to buy your first home in Brighton & Hove, you’ll quickly discover that saving a deposit is only part of the challenge. The right scheme (used properly) can make the difference between “maybe one day” and “this…

When buying a property in Hove, one of the most commonly misunderstood parts of the mortgage process is the difference between a mortgage valuation and a property survey. Many buyers assume they are the same thing, but they serve very different purposes and choosing the right survey could save you thousands of pounds in unexpected…

If you are buying your first home in 2026, combining a sensible deposit plan with the right product can make all the difference. Here is how to prepare and where to look for help. Nail the basics first Popular routes that help first-time buyers Property type watch-outs Lease terms matter. Check service charges, ground rent…

Mortgage rates in 2026 will continue to respond to inflation trends, lender funding costs and risk appetite. For buyers around Hove and Brighton, the smartest move is to plan for a realistic repayment range rather than chasing a single rate headline. What actually drives the rate you get Fixed vs variable in 2026 – quick…

Being self-employed does not mean a harder mortgage; it just means better preparation is needed. Here is a tight checklist to make underwriting smooth. What lenders look for Start with the basics in Securing the best self-employed mortgages and learn how lenders treat income types in What counts as income for a mortgage in Hove.…

It is increasingly common for people in Hove, Brighton and the surrounding areas to borrow into retirement. Pensions look different, careers are longer and property wealth plays a bigger role in planning. The good news is that there are more choices than ever for borrowers over 55. 1 – Standard mortgages into retirement Many mainstream…

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…