100% Mortgages in the UK: Pros and Cons
100% mortgages are a trending topic of conversation at the moment, with the Building Society Skipton announcing their launch of 100%, no-deposit mortgages, the first in the UK since 2008.
So, what is a 100% mortgage?
A 100% mortgage is a loan that covers the entire cost of a property. This means that you do not need to have a deposit to buy a home. 100% mortgages are not as common as they once were, but they can be a good option for first-time buyers and renters, who are struggling to save for a deposit.
There are a number of pros and cons to 100% mortgages.
Pros:
- You can buy a home without having to save for a deposit.
- You can get on the property ladder sooner.
- You may be able to get a lower monthly mortgage payment than if you had a smaller deposit.
Cons:
- You will be borrowing more money, which will mean higher monthly payments.
- You will be more exposed to risk if the property market falls.
- You may have to pay a higher interest rate on your mortgage.
- Your income: You will need to have a good income to be able to afford the monthly payments on a 100% mortgage.
- Your expenses: You will need to make sure that you have enough money left over after your monthly expenses to cover the mortgage payments.
- Your credit score: Your credit score will affect the interest rate you are offered on your mortgage.
- The property market: The property market can be volatile, so it is important to be aware of the risks involved in buying a home with a 100% mortgage.
Skipton 100% Mortgage
- Must have been a renter for at least 12 of the last 18 months in a row, and all rent payments must have been made on time during this time. You will need proof of this.
- You must be a first-time home buyer and at least 21 years old to qualify for one of these mortgages (this requirement applies to all applicants).
- Household bills like council tax, electricity, and/or gas must have been paid in full for at least 12 of the previous 18 months in a row.
- Have no intention of purchasing a new-build flat.
However, there is a condition: You can only borrow an amount equal to, or lower than, the amount of rent you pay each month.
If you are considering a 100% mortgage, it is important to speak to a mortgage advisor to get independent advice. A mortgage advisor can help you to find the best mortgage for your needs and can also help you to understand the risks involved.
* Figures and information courtesy of The Money Saving Expert