RemortgageStrategy UK
The best remortgage isn't always the lowest rate. It's the one that saves you the most money over the full deal period.
Timing, fees, penalties, and product type all affect the real cost. A slightly higher rate with no fee can save thousands compared to a "cheap" rate with a £999 arrangement fee.
29 Years
Experience
Whole Market
Rate Access
5★
Reviews.io
TL;DR — When Should I Remortgage?
- Start looking 3-6 months before your current deal ends
- SVR is expensive — switching typically saves £200-500/month
- Factor in fees and penalties — lowest rate isn't always cheapest overall
- You can borrow more to release equity for home improvements
- Many lenders offer free legal work and valuations for remortgages
Is This Page For You?
This page is for homeowners who want to understand whether remortgaging makes sense — not just chase the lowest headline rate. If any of these apply, we can help:
Why Remortgages Go Wrong
Most remortgage problems come from timing or product choice — not from not being able to get approved. Here's what typically goes wrong:
Waiting until you're on SVR
Standard Variable Rates are expensive — often 2-3% higher than fixed rates. Every month on SVR costs you money. Start looking 3-6 months before your deal ends.
Only comparing headline rates
A 5.00% rate with a £999 fee can cost more than a 5.20% rate with no fee, depending on your mortgage size and deal length. Total cost matters, not just the rate.
Ignoring early repayment charges
Some people pay thousands in penalties that could be avoided by waiting a few months. Others could save more by paying the penalty and switching early. You need to calculate it.
Assuming you'll automatically qualify
Lender criteria change. If you've become self-employed, changed jobs, or had credit issues, you might not qualify for the same products as before. Check first.
Not considering product type
Fixed vs tracker, 2-year vs 5-year, cashback vs lower rate — the right choice depends on your plans. Generic comparison sites can't advise on this.
How We Approach It Differently
We calculate the true cost of each option — not just the rate — and recommend the product that actually saves you the most money.
Total cost analysis
We calculate the full cost over the deal period: rate, fees, cashback, and early repayment charges. Then we recommend based on real savings.
Timing advice
We'll tell you whether to switch now, wait until your penalty ends, or lock in a rate now for later. Timing can save (or cost) you thousands.
Product selection
Fixed vs tracker, 2-year vs 5-year — we help you choose based on your plans, risk tolerance, and the current market. No generic recommendations.
Changed circumstances support
If you've become self-employed, had credit issues, or changed jobs, we know which lenders will still approve you. Not all do.
Common Remortgage Mistakes
Leaving it too late
If you start searching the week before your deal ends, you'll likely end up on SVR while you wait for a new offer. Start 3-6 months early.
Staying with your current lender by default
Product transfers are easy but not always the best deal. Check the whole market before accepting a retention offer.
Ignoring the fee
A £999 fee on a £150,000 mortgage over 2 years adds about 0.33% to the effective rate. Factor fees into your comparison.
Choosing the wrong term length
If you might move in 3 years, a 5-year fix with early repayment charges could cost you. Match the term to your plans.
"The best remortgage isn't the one with the lowest rate — it's the one that costs you least over the deal period. Fees, timing, and product type all matter."
Jay Sabine
Principal Adviser, Your Home Finance
Frequently Asked Questions
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Content reviewed: January 2026
CeMAP awarded by The London Institute of Banking & Finance. Cert CII (MP) awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute.