Frequently Asked Questions
Over 20 Years in Financial Services. Local Knowledge. Global Perspective.
FAQs
1. What documents will I need for a mortgage application?
Typically, lenders require:
Passport or ID
Proof of income (payslips or contracts)
Bank statements (usually 3–6 months)
Proof of address
Credit report (you can use Checkmyfile)
Tax returns (for self-employed clients)
Expat clients may also need:
Employment contracts
Foreign bank statements
Residency visa or permit
2. Can you help if I live outside the UK?
Yes — I specialise in UK mortgages for expats, including clients living in:
Doha
Dubai
Abu Dhabi
Singapore
Thailand
Hong Kong
Europe
All consultations and processes can be completed digitally using Zoom, WhatsApp, email and a secure online portal.
3. Do expats need a UK credit record?
Not always — but it helps.
I will guide you through the process of updating or rebuilding your UK credit profile where needed.
4. Can I use foreign income for a UK mortgage?
Yes. Many lenders accept income in: AED QAR USD EUR SGD HKD THB I will match you to lenders who accept your currency and employment type.
5. Do you charge a fee?
Fees vary depending on the type of mortgage and whether you are UK-based or an expatriate client.
All fees will be confirmed clearly in writing before any application is submitted.
There are no hidden charges.
6. Do you offer Zoom meetings for advice?
Yes — all consultations can be done via Zoom, phone or WhatsApp depending on your preference and time zone.
7. Do you help with Buy-to-Let mortgages?
Yes — including:
Individual BTL
Limited company BTL
HMOs
Holiday lets
Portfolio landlords
8. Can you help with product transfers?
Yes — if your existing mortgage rate is ending, I can help you switch products with your current lender, often with:
No new valuation
No legal fees
No affordability assessment
9. Do you help first-time buyers?
Absolutely — I provide step-by-step guidance, tailored explanations, and access to competitive first-time buyer products.
10. Do you provide referrals for solicitors?
Yes — through Smoove, which provides quick quotes and a panel of rated UK solicitors.
A referral fee may apply, fully disclosed in advance.
11. How do I track my mortgage progress?
You will have access to a secure online client portal to upload documents, complete fact-finds, and track your case progress.
12. How long does a mortgage take?
Typical timelines:
AIP (Agreement in Principle): within 1–24 hours
Full mortgage offer: 2–4 weeks depending on lender and valuation
Completion: 4–12 weeks depending on legal work
13. Can you help me release equity?
Yes — through a remortgage or secured loan depending on your lender options.
14. Can you help foreign nationals buying in the UK?
Yes — depending on visa type, income, and deposit size, many lenders accept foreign nationals.
15. Do you assist with mortgage protection?
Yes — including life cover, income protection and critical illness cover.
16. Can I invest in UK property while living abroad?
Definitely — and many expats do.
I can help you structure your lending for personal or investment purposes.
Ready to get started?
Book a free initial call to discuss your situation, explore your options, and understand what’s possible — with no obligation.
No pressure • No jargon • Just clear guidance
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. We may receive commissions that will vary depending on the lender, product, or other permissible factors. The nature of any commission model will be confirmed to you before you proceed.
SJ Clarke Mortgages is a trading name of Simon Clarke, Mortgage advice is provided through Cedar Crest Group Limited, an appointed representative of Headway Wealth Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Cedar Crest Group Limited is registered in England and Wales (Company Number: 12851894). Registered Office: Durham Workspace, Abbey Road, Pity Me, Durham, DH1 5JZ, United Kingdom. FCA Register Number (Cedar Crest Group Limited): 933936.