Mortgage guides, tips and advice
Helpful articles to support first-time buyers, home movers, remortgage clients, self-employed applicants and anyone who wants to understand their mortgage options more clearly.
At Cariad Mortgage Solutions, education is a big part of what we do. This section includes helpful mortgage guides, practical tips and plain-English explanations to help you feel more confident about the mortgage process.
If you have a question about buying a home, remortgaging, protecting your family or understanding what may be possible for your circumstances, you are welcome to get in touch.
Can I Get a Mortgage With a New Job or During Probation?
Starting a new job does not always mean putting your home buying plans on hold. This guide explains how lenders assess new employment, probation periods and job changes.
Should I Use a Mortgage Adviser or Go Direct to a Bank?
Should you arrange your mortgage directly with a bank or use a mortgage adviser? This guide explains the differences in lender choice, criteria, costs and support.
Mortgage Agreement in Principle: What Is It and Does It Affect Your Credit Score?
A mortgage Agreement in Principle can help you understand your potential property budget. Find out how it works, how long it lasts and whether it affects your credit score.
What Do Mortgage Lenders Look for on Bank Statements?
Worried about what a lender might see on your bank statements? This guide explains what can be reviewed and why context matters.
When Should I Start Looking at Remortgaging?
Is your mortgage deal coming to an end? Find out when to start reviewing your options and what to consider before choosing your next mortgage.
2-Year or 5-Year Fixed Mortgage: Which Is Right for You?
Trying to choose between a 2-year and 5-year fixed mortgage? This guide explains the differences and the questions to consider before deciding.
How Much Deposit Do I Need to Buy a House in Wales?
Wondering how much you need to save before buying a home? This guide explains mortgage deposits, loan-to-value and gifted deposits in plain English.
The Mortgage Process Explained Step by Step
Not sure how the mortgage process works? This guide walks you through every step from initial conversation to completion day.
How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage?
Wondering how much you could borrow? Learn what lenders look at, why online calculators are only a rough guide, and how to get a clearer picture.
Buying a Home in Swansea: Choosing an Area and Preparing for a Mortgage
Choosing where to buy a home is one of the most personal decisions you will ever make. Explore popular areas around Swansea and practical mortgage guidance.
The Base Rate Has Held Again. What Does That Mean for Your Mortgage?
On 30 July 2026, the Bank of England held the base rate at 3.75%. Learn what this decision means for your mortgage and what steps to consider.
Why Mortgage Protection Matters Once You Buy a Home
Getting the keys is only part of the journey. Knowing you can stay in your home, whatever life brings, matters just as much.
What Happens If My Bank Says No to My Mortgage?
Getting turned down for a mortgage can feel devastating. A decline from one lender does not mean every lender will say no. Learn why and what to do next.
Can I Get a Mortgage If I'm Self-Employed?
If you are self-employed and thinking about getting a mortgage, you may have heard that it is complicated, difficult, or even impossible. The good news is that it is none of those things.
First-Time Buyer Mortgages in Swansea: Where Do You Even Start?
Thinking about buying your first home can feel exciting and completely overwhelming at the same time. Cariad Mortgage Solutions explains the full first-time buyer journey in simple, reassuring steps.
Need mortgage advice now?
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