Hiring a Right to Buy Mortgage Specialist

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Right to Buy Mortgage Specialist

If you’re a council tenant looking to buy your home, you might be searching for a Right to Buy mortgage specialist near me to guide you through the process. The Right to Buy scheme allows eligible tenants to purchase their homes at a discounted price, but finding the right mortgage can be tricky.

Not all lenders offer Right to Buy mortgages, and the application process comes with unique challenges, especially if you’re self-employed, have bad credit, or need a no-deposit option. That’s why working with a local mortgage specialist who understands the scheme can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll explain how a Right to Buy mortgage specialist near you can help, what to expect from the process, and how to secure the best mortgage deal for your home. Whether you’re in London, Birmingham, Manchester, or anywhere else in the UK, finding the right expert can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s get started!

What Is a Right to Buy Mortgage?

The Right to Buy scheme allows eligible council and housing association tenants to purchase their home at a discount. The discount can be substantial, up to £38,000 in England, depending on how long you’ve been a tenant.

A Right to Buy mortgage works similarly to a standard mortgage, but there are key differences:

  • No deposit needed – Many lenders accept the Right to Buy discount as your deposit.
  • Different affordability checks – Lenders assess your ability to repay based on rent history and income.
  • Valuation considerations – Your home is valued at full market price, but you only pay the discounted amount.

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Why Use a Right to Buy Mortgage Specialist?

Unlike standard mortgages, Right to Buy comes with unique requirements that not all banks or brokers understand. A specialist can:

  • Find the right lender – Not all lenders offer Right to Buy mortgages. A specialist knows which ones do.
  • Maximise your approval chances – They can advise on credit history, income proof, and paperwork.
  • Help if you’re self-employed – Lenders often require extra documents for self-employed buyers.
  • Explain your options – If you have bad credit, they can guide you to lenders willing to help.

Working with an experienced Right to Buy mortgage specialist could save you time, money, and stress.

Who Can Apply for a Right to Buy Mortgage?

You may be eligible if:

  • You’ve been a council or housing association tenant for at least three years.

  • The property is your main home and is self-contained.

  • The home is not owned by a housing association that does not participate in Right to Buy.

You don’t have serious debts or a history of mortgage issues.

Even if you have bad credit or are self-employed, some lenders will still consider you with the right support.

Steps to Getting a Right to Buy Mortgage

1. Check Your Eligibility

Use the government’s Right to Buy calculator to see how much discount you qualify for.

2. Get a Right to Buy Application (RTB1 Form)

You need to submit this to your landlord. They have four weeks to respond (eight weeks if they’ve owned the property for less than three years).

3. Find a Right to Buy Mortgage Specialist

A specialist broker can check your finances, find lenders, and improve your chances of approval.

4. Get a Mortgage Offer

Once approved, your lender will give you a mortgage offer. Make sure it covers the discounted purchase price.

5. Complete the Purchase

Your solicitor will handle contracts and legal checks. Once complete, you’ll officially own your home!

Common Issues & How to Overcome Them

Bad Credit?

Some lenders accept applicants with poor credit. A specialist can help you find them.

Low Income?

Lenders may accept benefits or joint applications to boost affordability.

Self-Employed?

You’ll need to provide at least one to two years of accounts to prove income.

Landlord Delays?

If your landlord is slow in processing your Right to Buy application, you can take legal action.

Finding the Best Right to Buy Mortgage Deals

Mortgage rates vary based on your credit score, income, and the lender. Some lenders offer 100% Right to Buy mortgages, meaning you won’t need extra savings.

A Right to Buy mortgage specialist can help you compare deals and find the lowest rates available.

FAQs

What is the Right to Buy scheme?

The Right to Buy scheme allows eligible council and housing association tenants in England to purchase their homes at a discounted price. The discount amount depends on factors such as the length of tenancy and the type of property.

Is it advisable to wait until the default is removed from my credit file before applying?

To qualify, you must have been a public sector tenant for at least three years, and the property must be your only or main home. Additionally, the property should be self-contained.

Do I need a specific Right to Buy mortgage?

No, you have access to the same mortgage products available on the market as everyone else. It’s advisable to shop around and get impartial advice before deciding on the mortgage product that best suits you.

Can I use the discount as a deposit for a mortgage?

Many lenders consider the Right to Buy discount as a form of deposit. However, it’s essential to discuss this directly with potential lenders to understand their specific requirements.

What if I have rent arrears?

You can apply to buy your home even if you have rent arrears. However, your landlord is not obligated to complete the sale if you haven’t paid all the rent or any other payments within four weeks from the date you were asked to pay.

How long does the Right to Buy process take?

After submitting your Right to Buy application (RTB1 form), your landlord has up to four weeks to reply, confirming whether you have the Right to Buy. They then have up to eight weeks to send you an offer notice for a house.

What happens if my landlord delays the sale?

Landlords are required to process Right to Buy applications within specific time limits. If there is a delay, you may be able to get the purchase price reduced. There are procedures in place to address such delays.

Can I sell my home after purchasing it through Right to Buy?

Yes, but if you sell within five years, you may have to repay some or all of the discount. Additionally, if you decide to sell within ten years, you must first offer it to either your former landlord or another social landlord in your area.

Who is responsible for repairs after purchasing the property?

Once you’ve purchased your home, you are responsible for all maintenance and repairs. If you buy the freehold, this includes both routine and major structural repairs.

Are there any restrictions on the type of property I can buy?

Some properties, such as those designated for the elderly or disabled, may be exempt from the Right to Buy scheme. It’s essential to check with your landlord regarding any specific restrictions.

Can I apply for Right to Buy with someone else?

Yes, you can make a joint application with someone who shares your tenancy or with up to three family members who have lived with you for the past 12 months, even if they are not on the tenancy agreement.

What if I want to remortgage after buying my home?

You can remortgage your home at any time. However, before doing this, you should talk to your mortgage provider and obtain professional advice, as this may incur a penalty charge, especially if you are considering borrowing extra money.

How does being self-employed affect my Right to Buy mortgage application?

If you’re self-employed, lenders may require additional documentation, such as at least one to two years of accounts, to assess your income and determine your eligibility for a mortgage.

Can I apply for Right to Buy if I have bad credit?

Having bad credit can make obtaining a mortgage more challenging, but it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. Some lenders specialise in offering mortgages to individuals with adverse credit histories. It’s advisable to consult with a mortgage specialist to explore your options.

What are the recent changes to the Right to Buy scheme?

As of November 2024, the UK government announced plans to tighten the Right to Buy scheme to address the shortage of socially rented housing. Proposed changes include reducing the number of people eligible for discounts, extending the qualifying period beyond the current three years, and exempting newly built social homes from the scheme.

How can a Right to Buy mortgage specialist help me?

A specialist broker can:


  • Find the best mortgage deals.
  • Improve your chances of approval.
  • Help with paperwork and affordability checks.
  • Guide you if you have bad credit or are self-employed.

If you’re unsure where to start, speaking to a Right to Buy mortgage expert is a smart move.

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