Home improvements can transform your property, whether you are planning a new kitchen, an extension, or energy efficient upgrades. For many homeowners in Hove, the question is not whether to improve their home but how to fund it sensibly. Using your mortgage to raise funds for home improvements can often be one of the most…

Brighton flats “quirks”:Lease length, service charge, seafront conversions, cladding/EWS1 (lender friendliness) Brighton & Hove has an amazing mix of flats; regency conversions, seafront blocks, maisonettes above shops, and ex‑local authority stock. But these are also the purchases most likely to produce a nasty surprise halfway through a mortgage application. Here’s what buyers commonly search for…

Your Local Guide to Getting on the Property Ladder Buying your first home in Brighton is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel complex if you are new to the process. From understanding deposits to choosing the right mortgage, having clear guidance makes everything easier. Whether you are aiming for a seafront flat in…

DIY projects and renovations are increasingly popular in Hove, particularly as many homeowners choose to improve rather than move. From updating tired interiors to full property refurbishments, finding the right funding is key to avoiding financial stress. Using your property as security can unlock lower interest rates and higher borrowing compared to unsecured lending, but…

If you’ve typed “how much can I borrow for a mortgage?” into Google, you’ll know the answers online can be vague. In reality, lenders don’t just multiply your salary, they assess affordability in detail. And because Brighton & Hove prices remain high, getting clarity early can save you weeks of wasted viewings. ONS data shows…

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…