Get mortgage‑ready in 2026 (without the panic)
Thinking about moving home or remortgaging in 2026? The smartest move you can make isn’t rushing to Rightmove or hammering comparison sites.
It’s getting mortgage‑ready early.
A little prep now can lead to a smoother application and fewer headaches later. Below is a clear, jargon‑free guide to getting yourself in the best possible shape for a mortgage in 2026 - whether you’re a first‑time buyer, home mover, or remortgaging in the Wirral.
1. Check your bank statements (the "Coffee and Netflix" audit)
Now that the Christmas decorations are back in the loft, it’s a great time to see where your money is actually going. Grab your phone, open your banking app, and look for:
Ghost subscriptions: That gym you don't go to or the TV app you haven't watched since 2024.
The "Where did that go?" spending: Those little daily spends that add up to a big chunk by the end of the month.
The Essentials: What do you actually need to live on?
Why this matters: When you apply for a mortgage, lenders look at your income versus your outgoings. Cleaning up your statements now makes you look like a "low-risk" borrower, which is exactly what they want to see.
2. Your deposit: Why having a bit more helps
Your deposit is the amount of cash you’re putting into the house yourself.
A bigger deposit usually means you can access lower interest rates.
Most people aim for at least 5% of the house price BUT every additional 5% you add on will normally make things a little bit easier and a little bit cheaper.
Even if you aren’t buying tomorrow, tucking a little extra away now gives you more choice when the time comes.
3. Don't forget the "hidden" costs of moving
The deposit is the big one, but moving costs money too. Make sure you’re saving a little extra for:
Solicitors: The people who handle the legal paperwork.
Surveys: Paying a pro to check the house isn't falling down.
The Van: Paying someone to move your stuff (or buying pizza for the friends who help you).
Stamp Duty: A tax you might have to pay depending on the price of the house.
Planning for these now means no nasty surprises on moving day.
Planning your Wirral move? Start by getting mortgage-ready early.
4. Keep your bank account "tidy"
Lenders usually want to see your last three months of bank statements. They aren't judging you, but they are looking for "red flags" like:
Being in your overdraft every single month.
Lots of gambling transactions.
Using "Buy Now, Pay Later" (like Klarna) for every purchase.
Showing that you can pay your bills and still have money left over makes the whole process much easier.
5. Pay down your credit cards if you can
If you have a credit card, a car on finance, or a personal loan, the monthly payments are taken out of your "affordability."
Think of it like this: the less you owe to other people, the more a mortgage lender might be willing to lend to you. You don't have to be debt-free, but "trimming the fat" helps.
6. Check your credit score (it’s free!)
Your credit score is like a financial CV. You can check yours for free on sites like Experian or ClearScore. Doing it now gives you time to:
Fix mistakes: Sometimes companies put the wrong info on there.
Get on the Electoral Roll: Being registered to vote at your current address is a massive help.
Check your history: Make sure you haven't missed any payments by mistake.
7. Talk to a mortgage broker early
You don’t need to wait until you’ve found a house to talk to us. In fact, talking to a broker early is the best way to:
Find out exactly what you can afford so you don't fall in love with a house that's out of reach.
Get your paperwork ready so when the "Dream House" pops up, you're first in the queue.
The "Must-Read" Important Bit
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
This article is for information only and isn't formal financial advice.
The interest rate you get will depend on your own situation.
If you are remortgaging, you might have to pay a fee to leave your current lender early.