Get mortgage fit with our top tips

We’re encouraging homebuyers to get financially fit by sharing our top tips on how to get mortgage ready.

With the average age of a first-time buyer steadily increasing, we’re here with helpful advice on how best to prepare for taking on a mortgage—helping to make the sometimes daunting process of buying your first home a little easier. It’s important to have a solid understanding of the financial side of getting onto the property ladder, as making that big step is a major milestone for many. At Cerris Homes, we’re passionate about supporting people into their first homes and believe it’s important to help house hunters get off on the right foot.

  • Maximise your credit score: Lenders look for a good history of managing credit, such as car repayments, credit cards, and loans. Using less of your available credit and making regular, timely payments can help increase your score. If you don’t have any credit history, consider using a credit card for regular purchases (like fuel or food shops) and paying it off in full each month to build your score.
  • Don’t exceed your overdraft: Try to avoid going above your agreed overdraft limit, as this can negatively impact your credit score and your mortgage application. Staying within your limit also helps you avoid extra fees and keeps more of your savings available for your deposit.
  • Set a borrowing target: Setting a savings goal for your deposit and future mortgage can help you plan your finances and stay motivated. Decide how much you need to save each month and make your savings part of your routine—this shows lenders you’re financially responsible and ready for homeownership.
  • Get your documents in order: Make sure your passport, driving licence, and bank statements are up to date and registered to your current address. Check your credit file for any errors and get them corrected. Registering on the electoral roll is also important, as it helps verify your address for lenders.
  • Source independent advice: There are many organisations and advisors who offer free, independent guidance for first-time buyers. Mortgage advisors and comparison websites can help you understand the application process, compare rates, and estimate how much you can borrow based on your income.