Completion day — AKA the magical moment when you pick up the keys to the home you’ve been dreaming about and complete the property buying process — is always a memorable moment.
Especially if it’s taken weeks, months or even years in the making. This was the case for mortgage advisor Jo Jingree’s two first time buyer clients (pictured above) who, by their own admission, didn’t know if getting on the ladder was possible.
“First time buyers come in all shapes and sizes,” Jo says. “And it’s my job as an adviser to find the most suitable mortgage for each person. In this case, my clients thought that the odds were stacked against them, due to their age and the fact that one of them was self-employed. But after easing apprehensions and discovering what was important to this couple, we were able to make a plan on how to get the pair to where they wanted to be — which was keys in hand to their own home!”.
Taking the fear factor away
In 2025, that feeling of ‘never becoming a homeowner’ isn’t unique. High house prices, fluctuating interest rates and hefty deposits all have a part to play.
“But if buying a home is important to you, instead of giving up at the first hurdle, it’s all about taking that first step and having a chat with a mortgage adviser to see what could be possible,” Jo explains.
For example, some people don’t realise that a 10% or 20% deposit isn’t always required. Some lenders offer a 95% loan to value, meaning you’ll need to put down a 5% deposit. There are also a range of alternative ways to get on the property ladder — no matter whether you’re a first time buyer or not.
“I often get my clients to really think about what’s important to them,” Jo says. “For example, are you able to work from home? If that’s the case, then could you live further out? Perhaps lower monthly repayments are crucial to you? If so, would you be happy taking a mortgage over a longer term? Or are you self-employed and you need to take proactive steps to get your businesses’ paperwork in order?”.
“There really is no cookie-cutter approach when it comes to getting a mortgage,” Jo says. “And buying a home isn’t always a linear process. Instead, as my two clients came to discover, a big part of my role is to have a reassuring conversation and help set people on the right path.”
Going the ‘extra mile’
But don’t take my word for it. Here is what my two first time buyer clients had to say about the process of getting their mortgage:
“Finding Jo at (aptly named!) Mortgage Confidence was a tremendous stroke of luck because she really helped us to feel confident about our mortgage application,” the clients said.
“Jo clearly explained all the steps and, throughout the entire process, she kept us informed of every development. She always took the time and trouble to listen to us, to answer every question that we asked, and she was flexible when we had a change of circumstances. It’s not just that Jo is a consummate professional who is brilliant at her job, she is also very kind.”
“In today’s busy world, people often forget about the ‘human’ side of business, but not Jo. Beyond her tremendous expertise and efficiency, she is a caring person. She’s understanding, patient, reassuring, and compassionate. Now that we’ve accepted our mortgage offer, we’re actually going to miss having contact with Jo.”
“If you are fortunate enough to work with Jo Jingree, you will be advised and guided with complete clarity. She will be honest with you about what you can expect. And, it’s not just that our mortgage application was successful thanks to Jo, she also went the extra mile to find the best mortgage deal possible for us.”
Making your home buying dreams a reality
Every home buyer is different. And you might not be in a place to buy right now, but how about in a few months or a year’s time?
“Either way, don’t be afraid to have that initial conversation as it can be the start of your home-buying journey,” Jo says.
Jo offers a free 30-minute no-obligation phone call where we can talk through your goals and current situation.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances, but we estimate it will be £399.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
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