Top Mistakes To Avoid When Getting A Moving Home Mortgage 

Moving home is often one of life’s most exciting and stressful experiences. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger property, downsizing, or relocating for work, securing the right mortgage to move home is a critical part of your journey. Unfortunately, many home movers make avoidable mistakes that cost time, money, and peace of mind.  

At Conran Mortgages, we’ve supported countless clients through smooth, stress-free moves, and we want to help you avoid common pitfalls too. Call us on 020 8528 2251 or email hello@conranmortgages.co.uk to discuss your move. 

[quote_block quote= “Our experts at Conran Mortgages know that moving home should be exciting, not stressful. By avoiding these common pitfalls with your Moving Home Mortgage, we’ll help you secure the best terms and enjoy peace of mind every step of the way.”] 

Understanding Your Moving Home Mortgage 

Before we dive into the top mistakes to avoid, let’s clarify what a moving home mortgage is. Essentially, it’s a mortgage taken out when you’re selling your current property and purchasing a new one. Depending on your circumstances, you may port your existing mortgage to the new property or obtain a new mortgage. Why consider this with an expert broker? Mortgage porting and comparing the whole market can save you significant money and stress. 

Mistake 1: Not Planning Early Enough 

One of the most common mistakes we see is people leaving mortgage planning too late. The earlier you start the conversation, ideally as soon as you consider moving, the more options you’ll have. Lenders often require proof of income, affordability checks, and, in some cases, evidence of consistent mortgage payments before they consider a new application. Starting early gives your broker time to identify the best solution, whether that’s porting your existing mortgage or switching to a new product. 

Mistake 2: Ignoring Mortgage Portability 

A portable mortgage allows you to transfer your existing mortgage deal to your new home. Not all mortgages are portable, and eligibility depends on your lender’s terms and the suitability of your new property. Assuming your mortgage can be ported without checking can lead to surprises, including penalties or unsuitable loan terms. An independent broker will evaluate whether porting or taking out a new mortgage will save you more money. 

Mistake 3: Underestimating Costs And Fees 

Mortgage fees can be sneaky. From early repayment charges on your current mortgage to arrangement fees, valuation fees, and conveyancing costs, it’s easy to underestimate the total cost of moving home. Many brokers focus solely on interest rates, but without factoring in all associated costs, you might end up worse off. At Conran Mortgages, we review both rate and fee structures to give you a complete picture before you commit. 

Mistake 4: Choosing The Wrong Mortgage Type 

There are many mortgage types, including fixed-rate, variable-rate, tracker, interest-only, and repayment. Choosing the wrong one can cost you dearly in monthly repayments or limit your future flexibility. A moving home mortgage requires careful consideration of your current financial goals, plans for your new property, and future income expectations. We explore options such as remortgaging and home mover mortgages, ensuring you make informed decisions at each step. 

Mistake 5: Overlooking Affordability And Stress Testing 

Lenders use affordability stress tests to check whether you can still afford your mortgage if interest rates rise. Underestimating this can put you in a difficult position if market rates rise after your move. Ensure you consider future financial changes, such as family size, job changes, or other commitments, with your broker. Our team helps model different scenarios to keep you secure long term. 

Mistake 6: Incomplete Or Incorrect Documentation 

Mortgage applications require accuracy. Missing payslips, incorrect employment details, or inconsistent bank statements can slow down your application or even lead to rejection. Before you apply, make sure all your documents are up to date. We walk every client through a clear checklist so nothing is overlooked. 

Mistake 7: Failing To Use Whole-Of-Market Advice 

Many home movers make the mistake of checking only a couple of high-street lenders or relying on direct online tools. This approach often misses specialist deals and competitive products outside those lenders’ panels. As independent mortgage brokers with access to the whole market, we help you explore options you might not otherwise see, without a broker fee. 

Mistake 8: Neglecting Future Plans And Flexibility 

Your mortgage should support your future lifestyle. Whether you plan to rent rooms, work from home, or expand your family, these factors should influence your mortgage choice. A deal that suits your needs now might not be ideal in a few years. We help align your mortgage with both current and future goals. 

Conclusion — Move With Confidence 

Securing the right moving-home mortgage doesn’t have to be stressful, but avoiding these common mistakes is essential to saving time, money, and stress. When you work with Conran Mortgages, you gain expert support, whole-of-market access, and fee-free advice tailored to your situation.  

Mortgage advice is subject to eligibility and affordability checks. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. 

Call us today on 020 8528 2251 or email hello@conranmortgages.co.uk to book your personalised discovery call and take the stress out of your move. 

FAQs 

1. What is the difference between porting and taking a new mortgage? 

Porting transfers your existing mortgage to a new property; a new mortgage is a fresh loan with better terms. 

2. How soon should I start planning my mortgage before moving? 

Ideally, at least 3–6 months before your existing deal ends or before you put your property on the market. 

3. Can I avoid early repayment charges? 

Sometimes, check your mortgage terms and discuss options with your broker. A better rate can often offset penalties. 

4. Will my current mortgage automatically transfer to my new home? 

You don’t always need to check portability and lender approval; your broker can handle that. 

5. How does a broker help with a moving home mortgage? 

We search the whole market, provide tailored advice, handle paperwork, and secure the best terms based on your situation.