Getting the right mortgage advice should be easy

High-street banks only offer their own restricted product range. As an independent, whole-of-market broker regulated by the FCA, Austin Friars scans hundreds of lending programs across prime banks, specialist building societies, and private lenders to secure the lowest rates, lowest fees, and optimal underwriting criteria tailored to your specific income structure.

Under the FCA Consumer Duty, an advised sale means Austin Friars takes full regulatory and legal responsibility for verifying that the mortgage or insurance product is completely suitable for your budget and long-term circumstances. Non-advised digital platforms place 100% of the liability onto the consumer if the policy fails to pay out or excludes critical conditions.

Most UK lenders require a minimum deposit of 5% (95% Loan-to-Value). However, securing a deposit of 10%, 15%, or 25%+ unlocks progressively lower interest rate tiers and substantially reduces your monthly repayment amount. Our advisers help you calculate the sweet spot between deposit size and interest savings.

An Agreement in Principle (AIP) is an official statement from a lender confirming how much they are willing to lend you based on initial financial screening. Estate agents and sellers typically require an AIP before accepting an offer. Austin Friars can issue an AIP rapidly without harming your credit profile via soft credit footprint checks.

Writing a life insurance policy into trust ensures that the payout goes directly to your nominated beneficiaries without passing through your estate. This legally shields the proceeds from the standard 40% UK Inheritance Tax (IHT) and eliminates lengthy probate court delays, providing immediate financial relief when your family needs it most.