Our Blog

Expert insights on mortgages, protection, and property finance from the FG & Cook team.

7 September 20269 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage on a Non-Standard Construction Property?

Can you get a mortgage on a concrete, steel-frame, timber or modular home? Learn what lenders assess and how to prepare before applying.

4 September 20269 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage on a Flat Above a Shop?

Can you get a mortgage on a flat above a shop, restaurant or takeaway? Learn what lenders assess, including access, leases, noise and resale.

1 September 202610 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage on an Ex-Local-Authority Flat?

Can you get a mortgage on an ex-local-authority flat? Learn how construction, block height, deck access, lease terms and cladding affect lenders.

28 August 20269 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage With Only One Year's Self-Employed Accounts?

Can you get a mortgage with only one year's self-employed accounts? Learn how lenders assess income, trading history and supporting evidence.

24 August 20269 min read

Can Retained Company Profits Help a Director Borrow More?

Some lenders can assess a director's share of company profit rather than salary and dividends alone. Learn when retained profits may increase mortgage borrowing.

21 August 20269 min read

How Do Mortgage Lenders Calculate a Day-Rate Contractor's Income?

Learn how mortgage lenders calculate a contractor's income from a day rate, including worked examples, evidence requirements and common lender differences.

17 August 20269 min read

Can a CIS Subcontractor Get a Mortgage Using CIS Payslips?

CIS subcontractors may be able to use gross income from CIS payment statements for a mortgage. Learn how lenders assess income and what evidence is needed.

13 August 20269 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage During a Probation Period or Just After Starting a New Job?

You may be able to get a mortgage during probation or soon after starting a new job. Learn what UK lenders assess and which documents may be needed.

10 August 20269 min read

Can I Get a Mortgage While on Maternity or Parental Leave?

You may be able to get a mortgage while on maternity or parental leave. Learn how lenders assess return-to-work income, reduced hours and childcare costs.