When buying a home, most people focus on location, price, and layout. But there's another important detail that can affect your finances and future plans: whether the property is freehold or leasehold.
Understanding the difference can save you from surprises down the line. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide what’s right for you.
What Does Freehold Mean?
If you buy a freehold property, you own both the building and the land it stands on. You are fully responsible for maintaining the property, including the roof, walls, and garden.
Most houses are freehold
No ground rent or service charges
You can make changes (within planning rules) without asking a landlord
What Is Leasehold?
With a leasehold, you own the property for a set period, but not the land it sits on. The land remains owned by the freeholder (sometimes called the landlord).
The lease term matters — anything under 80 years can make mortgages harder to get
Most flats and some new-build houses are leasehold
You may pay ground rent, service charges, and permission fees to the freeholder
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature
Freehold
Leasehold
Ownership
Building + land
Building for set lease term
Ground rent
None
Usually required
Service charges
Uncommon
Common in blocks of flats
Permissions needed
Not usually
Often required for alterations
Lease length issues
Not applicable
Under 80 years may affect resale/mortgage
Things to Watch Out For With Leasehold
Short leases can reduce property value and increase difficulty getting a mortgage.
High service charges can add significant ongoing costs.
Permission fees may be required for even minor changes like replacing windows.
Ground rent increases could be built into the lease – check the small print!
Can You Extend or Buy the Freehold?
Yes. Leaseholders usually have the right to extend the lease or buy the freehold after owning the property for a certain period. It can be complex, but there are legal protections to support you.
Which Is Right for You?
Unsure? Speak to a mortgage broker and solicitor before committing.
Buying a house? Aim for freehold if possible.
Buying a flat? Leasehold is common – just check the lease length, costs, and conditions.
how we can help
Whether you're looking at freehold or leasehold homes, getting into the property ladder doesn’t need to be stressful. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we help clients:
Explain what the ownership terms mean for your mortgage
Help you understand additional costs
Recommend trusted legal advisers for lease reviews
What to do (or not do) Before Applying for a Mortgage
If you're planning to apply for a mortgage, your credit score will play a major role in what deals you’re offered or even whether you’re approved. Lenders use your credit history to judge how reliable you are with borrowing. A higher score usually means better interest rates and more mortgage choices.
Here are simple, practical steps you can take to give your credit score a healthy boost before applying for a mortgage.
1. Check Your Credit Report
Start by reviewing your credit report with all three major UK credit reference agencies: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Make sure there are no errors or fraudulent activity.
2. Get on the Electoral Roll
Lenders like to see stability, and being on the electoral roll at your current address boosts your score. It’s an easy win and shows you're traceable.
3. Pay Bills on Time
Your payment history is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. Set up direct debits to ensure your bills, credit cards, and loan payments are always on time.
4. Keep Credit Use Low
Try not to use more than 30% of your credit limit. This shows lenders that you're managing your credit well and not over-reliant on borrowing.
5. Avoid Applying for New Credit
Every application leaves a mark on your report. Avoid taking out new loans, credit cards, or finance agreements in the months leading up to your mortgage application.
6. Don’t Close Old Accounts
Older credit accounts show lenders a longer credit history, which can be a positive. Keep them open, even if you rarely use them.
7. Check for Financial Links
If you once had a joint account or credit with someone else, you could still be financially linked. If you're no longer connected, ask the credit agency to remove the association.
8. Consider a Credit-Building Card
If you have a thin credit file or a poor score, using a credit-building card responsibly for small purchases and repaying in full each month can help improve your rating.
how we can help
Getting into the property ladder doesn’t need to be stressful. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we help clients:
The UK property market continues to attract international buyers looking for a stable investment, a second home, or a future base for work or family. If you're considering buying a property in the UK from overseas, there are some important steps and details to understand before diving in.
Here’s a clear guide to help you navigate the process.
Why Invest in UK Property?
Stable market: The UK housing market remains one of the most resilient globally.
Strong rental demand: In cities and university towns, rental yields are attractive.
Legal ownership rights: Foreign buyers have the same property ownership rights as UK residents.
Who Can Buy?
There are no legal restrictions on foreign nationals buying property in the UK. You don’t need a visa or permanent residence to own a home here. However, the process can be more complex if you need a mortgage.
Financing as a Non-Resident
Exchange rates: Currency fluctuations can affect how much you pay.de translated and certified income documents, bank statements, and proof of identity.
Specialist lenders: Many mainstream banks don’t lend to overseas buyers, but brokers can access lenders who specialise in expat and foreign national mortgages.
Higher deposit requirements: Typically 25-40% of the property value.
Proof of income: Expect to provide translated and certified income documents, bank statements, and proof of identity.
Legal & Tax Considerations
Stamp duty: Overseas buyers pay an additional 2% surcharge on top of standard stamp duty rates.
Solicitor: Choose a UK-based conveyancer familiar with overseas transactions.
Tax on rental income: If letting the property, you'll pay income tax on UK earnings. Register with HMRC under the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme.
Capital gains tax: You may need to pay UK capital gains tax if you sell the property at a profit.
Practical Tips for Overseas Buyers
Work with a UK mortgage broker who can handle international applications.
Choose the right property for your goals — student housing, city flats, or family homes.
Visit in person if possible, or arrange virtual tours and local surveys.
Plan for ongoing costs, including service charges, ground rent (for leaseholds), insurance, and maintenance.
how we can help
Buying from abroad doesn’t need to be stressful. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we offer tailored guidance for overseas buyers:
Recommendations for trusted solicitors and surveyors
If you’re planning to buy a home, remortgage, or invest in property, you might be wondering: do I need a mortgage broker?
While it’s possible to go directly to a lender, working with a broker like Windsor Hill Mortgages can save you time, stress, and potentially thousands of pounds.
Here’s what a mortgage broker actually does – and why they might just be your best ally in the home-buying process.
What Is a Mortgage Broker?
A mortgage broker is a qualified professional who acts as a go-between for you and mortgage lenders. Their job is to:
Understand your financial situation and property goals
Search the market for the most suitable mortgage deals
Explain your options in plain English
Help you apply and stay on track through to completion
What Are the Benefits of Using a Broker?
1. Access to More Deals
Many of the best mortgage products aren’t available directly to the public. Brokers have access to a wide panel of lenders, including high street banks, specialist lenders, and exclusive broker-only deals.
2. Save Time and Hassle
Applying for a mortgage can be time-consuming and complex. A broker handles the paperwork, liaises with the lender, and keeps things moving, so you don’t have to chase updates.
3. Tailored Advice
Your financial situation is unique, and so is your mortgage. A broker considers your income, deposit size, credit history, and long-term plans to recommend a product that truly fits.
4. Support for Complex Cases
If you're self-employed, have irregular income, or want a buy-to-let mortgage, a broker can help find lenders who are more flexible or experienced with your situation.
5. Help Beyond the Mortgage
Brokers don’t just stop at the loan. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we also help you secure:
Life insurance and critical illness cover
Buildings and contents insurance
Landlord protection if you’re letting out a property
When Should You Speak to a Mortgage Broker?
It’s a good idea to contact a broker:
If your circumstances have changed (e.g. new job, divorce, or income drop)
Before you start house hunting (to find out how much you can borrow)
When your fixed rate is ending and you want to remortgage
how we can help
As a Bath-based brokerage, we offer personalised, jargon-free advice whether you're a first-time buyer, home mover, or landlord. We take the time to get to know you, explain your options clearly, and handle everything from application to offer.
If you're buying or selling a property in the UK, there's one document you can’t afford to ignore: the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It not only tells you how energy-efficient a home is, but it can also influence the property's value, running costs, and even your mortgage eligibility.
What Is an EPC?
An EPC is a legal requirement for nearly all homes being sold or rented in the UK. It rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), and includes:
Estimated energy costs
A summary of energy performance features
Recommendations to improve efficiency
Why Does It Matter?
For Buyers: A better EPC rating usually means lower energy bills.
For Sellers: A higher rating can make your property more attractive and potentially increase its value.
For Landlords: You legally need a rating of E or above to rent out a property — and upcoming changes may raise this requirement to C in future years.
How to Improve an EPC Rating
If your EPC rating is low, here are some upgrades that could help:
Installing loft or wall insulation
Upgrading to a modern boiler or heating system
Switching to LED lighting
Adding double or triple glazing
Using renewable energy sources like solar panels
Government-backed schemes and local grants may help cover the cost of some improvements.
How Long Does an EPC Last?
An EPC is valid for 10 years, but if you’ve made energy upgrades since your last assessment, it’s worth getting a new one before selling to reflect the improved rating.
What If a Property Has No EPC?
It’s a legal requirement to have a valid EPC when a property is put on the market. Sellers or landlords without one could face a fine, and estate agents typically won’t list your property without it.
EPCs and Green Mortgages
Some lenders now offer green mortgage incentives for properties with high EPC ratings. This could mean better rates or cashback offers, especially if you’re buying an energy-efficient new build.
how we can help
At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we work with buyers, sellers, and landlords to:
If you own a rental property, standard home insurance won’t cut it. As a landlord, you need specialist cover to protect your building, contents, and rental income. Whether you’re letting out a single flat or managing a portfolio, landlord insurance is a must-have for your peace of mind and long-term financial security.
What Is Landlord Insurance?
Landlord insurance is designed for properties that are rented out to tenants. It offers protection against the unique risks that come with letting a property, including:
Damage caused by tenants
Loss of rent if the property becomes uninhabitable
Legal expenses in case of disputes
What Does It Typically Cover?
While policies vary, most landlord insurance products include:
Buildings Insurance Covers the structure of the property against risks such as fire, flooding, storm damage, and vandalism.
Contents Insurance Protects items you provide in a furnished property, such as white goods, furniture, and curtains. It does not cover your tenant's belongings.
Property Owners’ Liability Covers legal costs and compensation if a tenant or visitor is injured on the premises due to negligence (e.g. a broken stair).
Loss of Rent Cover Compensates you for lost rental income if the property is damaged and becomes uninhabitable.
Legal Expenses Covers legal costs associated with tenant disputes, evictions, or property damage claims.
Optional Extras You May Want to Add
Accidental Damage – Covers unintentional harm to fixtures and fittings.
Malicious Damage by Tenants – Specifically for damage caused on purpose.
Rent Guarantee Insurance – Helps cover missed rental payments if a tenant defaults.
Why It Matters
Letting out a property is a serious investment, and without the right protection, you could face significant costs. From burst pipes to boundary disputes, unexpected events can quickly eat into your rental income or capital value.
Some mortgage lenders also require landlord insurance as a condition of the loan, so it’s worth checking your policy requirements.
Speak to the Experts
Choosing the right landlord insurance can be confusing, especially with so many add-ons and exclusions to consider. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we work with trusted providers to help landlords:
Falling behind on your mortgage can be incredibly stressful, but you're not alone and there are steps you can take to regain control. Whether you've missed a payment or are struggling to keep up, it's important to act early, understand your options, and get support before the situation worsens.
At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we believe no one should feel overwhelmed when it comes to their home. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to dealing with mortgage arrears.
Step 1: Talk to Your Lender Straight Away
Your first move should be to contact your lender. The earlier you speak to them, the more flexible they can be. Most lenders have dedicated teams to support customers in financial difficulty.
They may be able to offer:
A short-term payment holiday
Switching to interest-only payments for a period
Extending your mortgage term to reduce monthly payments
Remember, ignoring the problem won’t make it go away – it’s always better to be upfront and ask for help.
Step 2: Understand the Impact on Your Credit
Falling into arrears may affect your credit score, which can make borrowing more difficult in the future. But lenders are more understanding when you keep them informed and take action early.
Some options, like payment holidays or term changes, may not damage your credit if agreed in advance.
Step 3: Review Your Budget
Look at where your money is going each month. Could you:
Cut back on non-essential spending?
Temporarily pause subscriptions or memberships?
Speak to other providers (like utilities or credit cards) about lower payment options?
Small changes can help free up cash to get back on track.
Step 4: Explore Government & Free Support Services
There are charities and government-backed services offering free, confidential advice:
StepChange (debt advice and repayment plans)
Citizens Advice (general financial support)
MoneyHelper (budgeting and mortgage guidance)
These can help you understand your rights and what support you might be entitled to.
Speak to the Experts
If your mortgage no longer suits your situation, speak to an adviser. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we can help you:
Reassess your current mortgage deal
Look at remortgaging options (even with arrears, in some cases)
Work with your lender to agree on a manageable plan
We’re here to listen without judgement and find a practical way forward. Speak to our team today and we'll take you through your options.
Thinking about paying off your mortgage early? Whether you're eyeing financial freedom or simply want to cut interest costs, making mortgage overpayments can be a powerful way to reach your goals. But before diving in, it's important to understand how overpayments work and the potential penalties involved.
What Is a Mortgage Overpayment?
A mortgage overpayment is when you pay more than your agreed monthly repayment. This can be done:
As a lump sum (e.g. a bonus or inheritance)
As regular extra payments on top of your monthly direct debit
Overpaying helps to reduce your outstanding balance faster, which can:
Shorten your mortgage term
Reduce the total interest paid over time
Benefits of Overpaying Your Mortgage
Interest savings – The less you owe, the less interest you pay
Mortgage freedom sooner – Clear your debt ahead of schedule
Better remortgage deals – Reducing your loan-to-value (LTV) could unlock lower rates in the future
Know Your Limits: Overpayment Allowances
Most lenders allow you to overpay by up to 10% of your outstanding mortgage balance per year without penalty. However, you will need to check your mortgage terms to confirm your allowance.
Going over this limit may trigger an early repayment charge (ERC), especially during a fixed, tracker, or discounted rate period. Always double-check before making a large payment.
Understanding Early Repayment Charges (ERCs)
ERCs are fees charged by your lender if you repay all or part of your mortgage earlier than agreed. They are usually:
A percentage of your remaining balance
Higher earlier in your mortgage term, and reduce over time
For example, a five-year fixed-rate mortgage might carry an ERC of:
3% in Year 1
1% in Year 5
Even if you're remortgaging to a better deal, ERCs can apply – so it’s vital to calculate if the switch still saves you money overall.
Offset Mortgages: A Flexible Alternative
If you want to use your savings to reduce interest but still need access to the money, an offset mortgage could be worth exploring. Your savings account is linked to your mortgage, reducing the interest charged without actually making overpayments. However, these mortgages aren't always widely available and may come with slightly higher rates
When Overpayments Might Not Be Best
Before overpaying, consider:
Emergency savings – Keep a cash buffer in case of unexpected expenses.
High-interest debts – It may be smarter to pay off credit cards or loans first.
Investment returns – You might earn more by investing your spare cash, depending on your risk tolerance.
Speak to the Experts
Every mortgage is different, and the decision to overpay should be based on your personal circumstances. At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we can help you:
Find flexible mortgage products that suit your financial goals
Understand your lender’s overpayment rules
Assess the cost-effectiveness of early repayments
Speak to our team today and we'll take you through your options.
As we live longer and pension pots face more pressure, many people are turning to property to help fund their retirement. Buy-to-let can be more than just an investment strategy – it can be a practical, long-term source of income. If you're considering ways to support yourself later in life, here’s why property could be a smart addition to your retirement plan.
Why a Buy-to-Let Property?
Pensions can fluctuate with the stock market and may not always offer predictable returns. But bricks and mortar? That offers something tangible. Buy-to-let properties provide:
Regular rental income to support day-to-day living.
Capital growth potential as property values rise over time.
Inheritance value for loved ones.
According to recent data, rental demand is especially strong in urban and commuter areas, giving landlords consistent returns.
How Buy-to-Let Can Work Alongside Your Pension
Buy-to-let can either top up your existing pension or act as your main retirement income stream. Here's how:
Rental income can cover monthly costs or offer extra spending money.
Selling the property later could release a lump sum when needed.
You can even transfer the property to family members, passing on value in a tax-efficient way (with proper planning).
What to Consider Before Investing
Buy-to-let isn’t without its challenges. Here are some key points to weigh up:
Initial deposit – You’ll usually need at least 25% of the property value.
Tax – Income tax applies to rental income, and Capital Gains Tax may apply when selling.
Maintenance & management – Properties need upkeep, and you’ll either need to manage tenants yourself or pay a letting agent.
Void periods – Times when the property is unoccupied could affect your income.
That said, the potential returns often outweigh the effort – especially if you choose the right property in the right location.
Who Is It Right For?
Buy-to-let for retirement may suit you if:
You want a more hands-on investment than a traditional pension.
You have a decent amount of equity or cash to invest.
You’re comfortable being a landlord or hiring someone to manage it.
You want an income stream that isn’t tied to the performance of the stock market.
Seek Professional Guidance
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just exploring the idea of buy-to-let, our expert team can help you:
Understand buy-to-let mortgage options
Calculate your potential rental income
Navigate tax implications
Find the right property for your goals
Make a long-term plan tailored for you
Speak to our team today and we'll take you through your mortgage options.
What Is a Lifetime ISA (LISA) and How Can It Help You Buy Your First Home?
If you’re saving up to buy your first home, the Lifetime ISA (LISA) could give your savings a welcome boost. It’s a government-backed savings account that rewards you with a 25% bonus on what you save – and it’s specifically designed to help people like you get onto the property ladder.
Now that the stamp duty changes have been implemented, and the ISA allowance has reset, it's the right time to take a closer look at how it works and whether it’s the right move for your home-buying journey.
How Does a Lifetime ISA Work?
You can open a LISA if you’re aged between 18 and 39, and save up to £4,000 each tax year. The government then adds a 25% bonus to your savings. That means for every £1,000 you put in, you get an extra £250.
You can keep saving into your LISA until you turn 50, and use it to either:
Buy your first home (up to £450,000)
Save for retirement
Using Your LISA to Buy a Home
If you’re a first-time buyer, you can use your LISA savings – including the government bonus – towards the purchase of a home that costs up to £450,000. The account must be open for at least 12 months before you use it.
It can be used for any type of residential property, and the funds must go directly to your solicitor or conveyancer during the purchase.
The Benefits of a LISA
Free money from the government – up to £1,000 per year in bonuses
Tax-free savings – interest earned and the bonus are tax-free
A big boost towards your deposit – ideal if you're struggling to save
You can still get a mortgage – the LISA bonus just helps you get there faster
What are the Downsides?
There are a few rules to keep in mind:
If you withdraw the money for anything other than a first home or retirement, you’ll pay a 25% penalty (which could mean you lose some of your own savings, not just the bonus).
The property must be your main residence – you can’t use it for a buy-to-let.
You must use a conveyancer or solicitor to handle the purchase with your LISA provider.
here's an Example
Assuming no growth, initial savings of £800 will earn a 25% government bonus of £200 and give you a pot of £1,000. If you wish to withdraw the entire pot, a 25% charge will apply to the full £1,000. You’ll have to pay a government withdrawal charge of £250. This will leave you with £750.
If you only wish to access some of your money, you’ll have to take the withdrawal charge into account when requesting funds. You’ll have to withdraw more than the amount you need, to cover your needs and the 25% withdrawal charge.
How It Fits With a Mortgage
Your LISA is separate from your mortgage – it helps boost your deposit, which in turn can help you secure a better mortgage deal with lower monthly payments.
Seek Professional Guidance
At Windsor Hill Mortgages, we regularly help first-time buyers use their LISA savings as part of their deposit and find the right mortgage to match. We can also talk you through how much you might be able to borrow, what kind of mortgage suits your situation, and how to plan ahead.
Speak to our team today and we'll take you through your mortgage options.
