Getting A Mortgage Quickly | Advice From A Mortgage Broker | First Time Buyer

Hello, welcome back to our channel and podcast. My name’s Gemma, and here at WIS we talk about all things relating to money, mortgages, and positive money mindset. If that interests you, be sure to subscribe and hit the thumbs up – it really helps with our YouTube algorithm so you don’t miss out on future videos.

At WIS, we are a fee-free broker (we get paid by the lender, not you). Originally, we started to help our WIS Accountancy clients (mainly contractors and self-employed), but over the past 10 years we now help all types of clients – first-time buyers, contractors, self-employed, expats and more. We can also assist with accountancy, wealth, pensions, insurance, and mortgages.

On today’s episode of Let’s Talk Money and Mortgages, we’re joined by Ifd, a trained accountant, mortgage advisor with over 10 years of experience, and one of the founding directors here at WIS.

Q1: What is the first thing I should do when I arrive in the UK?

A: Get on the Electoral Roll as soon as possible.

Many people wrongly assume they need to be British to register. That’s not true.

As soon as you settle, register – this starts your credit history.

Don’t wait until a card arrives at home – register immediately.

Q2: How important is opening a bank account?

A: Very important – do it as soon as possible.

Bring your address history from abroad (e.g., bank statements from the last 3 years).

Banks offer two types of accounts:

• Basic bank account – does not go on your credit file.
• Standard account – involves a credit check, appears on your credit file, and helps build your credit.

Choose the second type if possible (no extra cost).

Q3: When should I start saving for my deposit?

A: From day one.

If you have savings abroad, bring them – but be prepared to show an audit trail of where the money came from.

Lenders need proof it was legitimately earned.

Explore government schemes like the Lifetime ISA – but note you must open it at least a year before using it.

Q4: Why should I register with utility companies?

A: It builds your credit score.

UK lending relies heavily on credit score.

Set up accounts for: council tax, electricity, gas, water.

Pay via direct debit – lenders see this as proof you can manage commitments.

Be cautious if sharing bills with friends – their missed payments can affect your credit too.

Q5: Should I open a credit card?

A: Yes – but use it wisely.

After 2–3 months (once on electoral roll, with bank account and utilities), banks may offer you a card.

If not, apply for a credit-builder card.

Use it, but always pay in full each month – this builds history without creating debt.

One card is enough; two at most.

Q6: Why is working with a mortgage advisor important?

A: Because not all banks accept newcomers.

Some lenders require you to be in the UK for 1–2 years.

Others may accept applications after 6 months, depending on visa type and income.

Advisors know which banks to approach – saving you time and helping you buy faster.

Brokers like WIS work with most banks and can guide you to the best fit.

Q7: Is there anything else I should do to speed up the process?

A: Yes – get a job as soon as possible.

Lenders often don’t consider overseas income.

Having a UK job makes mortgage approval easier.

If married, having your spouse work can also strengthen the application.

Final Reminder

These tips may or may not apply to everyone, so please speak to an advisor to check your personal circumstances.

At WIS, we’re always happy to help – contact details are below.

Remember: Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up with mortgage repayments.

Thank you for joining us – we’ll be back next week with another episode of Let’s Talk Money and Mortgages.