Buying a property to renovate

Renovating a house and putting your own stamp and style on it can be exciting. There is a lot you need to consider.

 

Here are some of the things we could help you with

  • Things to do before you get started.
  • Things to watch out for.
  • Payment options.
  • Energy-efficient options.

Before you get started

When you’re planning renovations, you’ll need to make sure you have the following in hand. 

Budget

You may come across things you hadn’t planned for. Add 20% onto your budget to cover yourself. You never know what you’ll find when you start ripping out old fixtures and fittings.

Buildings survey

This will tell you the condition of the building before you dive in. So, getting a full survey before you start could be a wise move.

Building permissions

Depending on what work you want to do, you may need to get planning permission from your local authority. It can take up to 12 weeks to get a decision on your application, so the sooner you apply, the better.

Some smaller changes won’t need planning permission. You can check what you need on the government website for building regulations.

Accommodation

Depending on the extent of the renovations, you may not be able to live at the property while you’re doing the work. Factor in any extra living costs until your house is ready.

Use the budget calculator

The budget calculator is designed to help you manage your money.

It will show you where you can make extra savings each month, reduce any debts you may have, and help you prepare for the future.

Budget calculator

Things to watch out for

It can be tempting to try and cut corners or expenses when renovating. But sometimes, you need to trust the experts and have patience.

Get the experts in

You may be handy with a screwdriver, but for larger jobs like electrics, plumbing and construction, it may be worth leaving this to the experts.

These jobs will need to meet building regulations.

Timings

Renovating a property can be a lengthy process. Build a schedule with your contractors. Allow for applying for planning permission, ordering materials and availability of the professionals.

Add some extra time for dealing with the unexpected.

Older houses

Older properties are more likely to have hidden complications. An old cottage may look quaint, but it could have old electrics or hidden issues.

Get a thorough buildings survey and as much information as you can before diving in.

Paying for renovations

Remortgaging might be an option for raising the funds for your building work.

Remortgaging to us

If you’re shopping around for a new mortgage offer, we could help find the right deal.

We'll make switching from another lender simple, leaving you to concentrate on your renovations.

Remortgaging

Switch or borrow more

Do you already have a mortgage with us and are considering a new deal? Or perhaps you’re looking to borrow more.

If you’ve been with us for at least six months, you can explore your options on our existing customer hub.

Existing customers

Lending is subject to application and an assessment of your circumstances.

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments

Energy-efficient home improvements through our partners

We've teamed up with Octopus Energy and Effective Home to help make your home more energy efficient. By applying with one of our partners you could be entitled to cashback or a bill credit on qualifying home improvements.

Solar panels

Solar panels generate power for your home and could improve your EPC rating by converting sunlight into clean, renewable energy.

Find out about solar panels

Heat pumps

Heat pumps can be an energy-efficient way of heating your home and could help lower your home’s energy bills.

Learn more about heat pumps

Insulation

Adding loft, wall, and floor insulation to your home is vital for keeping it warm and cosy. It could also reduce the cost of your heating.

Learn more on home insulation

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Remortgage calculator

See our latest remortgage deals and interest rates​.

Use the remortgage calculator

Energy Performance

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) show how energy efficient a house is.

How to get an EPC

Get in touch

You can call us or book a video mortgage appointment from the comfort of your own home. 

Contact us

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