How long does it take to remortgage?

The remortgage process usually takes around 4 to 8 weeks, as you’ll be switching to a new lender. In some cases, it could take slightly longer, so it’s best to start the process a few months before your deal runs out.

 
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Remortgage process – at-a-glance

Step 1 - Find a remortgage deal 

Start researching around 3 months before your deal ends and apply for an agreement in principle (AIP) if you see a rate you want with a new lender.

Step 2 – Apply for the mortgage

If your AIP is approved, you can then apply for the mortgage and start the legal work.

Step 3 – Start your new mortgage

If your application is successful, your new mortgage will start when your current deal ends.

Remember, everyone’s remortgage journey is different. This just gives you an idea of what yours might look like.  

 

The full remortgage timeline

1. Finding a remortgage deal

Around 3 months before your deal ends

Review your current mortgage deal to check your existing mortgage rate, monthly repayments and any early repayment charges. Then compare your rate with deals from other lenders. 

There are various tools online which can help you quickly research the rates available and find a deal that suits you. When researching, consider whether: 

  • you want the same type of mortgage and how long you want to fix your rate 
  • you want to borrow more 
  • your circumstances could change.

If you’re interested in remortgaging to Lloyds, you can use the remortgage calculator to see if you could get a better rate.

2. Apply for an AIP

When you’ve found the mortgage you want

If you’ve decided remortgaging is right for you, you can apply for an AIP with your new lender. 

This gives you an idea of how much you could borrow. 

Applying for an AIP with Lloyds usually takes about 10 minutes. At this stage, we’ll ask for your personal information and check your credit history and affordability. We’ll then aim to give you an instant decision.

3. Completing your application

If your AIP is approved

At this point, you might be asked to provide proof of your identity and income. This is usually in the form of your passport or driving license, and payslips. You might want to have these ready in advance to avoid delays. 

If you have a current account with Lloyds, Halifax or Bank of Scotland, we'll let you know if we can verify your income instantly. This saves you from sending payslips and speeds up your application. 

Your lender might also arrange a valuation of your property to confirm its value.

4. Getting a conveyancer

Around 4 to 8 weeks before you remortgage

You’ll also need to sort the legal side of the remortgage process. This is carried out by a conveyancer who works with your lender to draw up the mortgage deed and make sure the transfer is completed correctly.

If you’re remortgaging to Lloyds, you can use the Lloyds Conveyancing Service to compare quotes from a comprehensive nationwide panel.  We’ll pay your basic legal fees. Extra fees may apply for any additional legal work required.

5. Remortgage to your new lender

On completion day

Your conveyancer will transfer the money from your new lender to pay off your old mortgage balance. If you chose to borrow more on your mortgage, you should receive the remaining funds in your bank account.

From here, you officially start your new mortgage repayments with your new lender.

When should you remortgage?

Most people choose to remortgage when their current mortgage deal is coming to an end. That way, you can avoid moving on to your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR).

You can usually start this process a few months before the end date. But this depends on the lender.

If you remortgage early, an early repayment charge (ERC) could apply. So, it’s worth checking your mortgage details to decide the best time to switch.

Tips to help speed up the remortgage process

There are a few steps you can take to help your application run smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays. 

Research in advance

Take time to understand the remortgaging process. Get to know who’s involved, what each step entails and any costs you might need to pay, so things don’t come as a surprise.

Get your paperwork ready ahead of time

Lenders might ask you for proof of ID, such as a passport or driving license, and proof of income, in the form of payslips. Missing or outdated evidence could cause delays, so try to have these documents ready before you apply.

If you have a current account with Lloyds, Halifax or Bank of Scotland, we'll let you know if we can verify your income instantly.

Sign up to your conveyancer’s online portal

If your conveyancer has an online portal, you should try to use it. This is often the quickest and securest way to respond to their queries and share essential documents or ID. 

Stay responsive throughout the process

Quick responses to queries from your conveyancer can prevent your application from stalling. Look to complete any forms they ask for as quickly and as fully as possible. Make sure to pay attention to any specific guidance.

Want to remortgage to Lloyds?

 
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Remortgage Calculator

See if you could remortgage to a new deal and save money with Lloyds. Use the remortgage calculator to get a quick estimate and take the next step when you’re ready.

Use the Remortgage Calculator

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

Let’s take a closer look

  • Remortgaging can be simpler than getting a first mortgage, as you don’t have to deal with other factors around moving house and changing property ownership. But we’ll still need to assess your application, carry out a property valuation and transfer your mortgage.

    Staying with your existing lender and choosing a product transfer often involves fewer checks than switching lenders. Even so, comparing options could help you find a better deal.

  • Yes, it’s possible to be declined for a remortgage. Common reasons might include a low or poor credit rating, missed or late payments, high levels of existing debt, or recent drops in income. Applications could also be refused if you have mortgage arrears or a high loan-to-value ratio (LTV).

    Find out what to do if your mortgage application is declined

  • Your remortgage might get delayed for a range of reasons, including: 

    • delays with property valuations
    • missing or incomplete ID or income evidence
    • changes to your employment or income
    • leasehold properties requiring additional legal work.

    While there are things you can do to prevent some of these delays, others might be out of your hands. It’s worth being clear with your new lender and conveyancer if you’re on a tight timeline so that they can set realistic expectations.

  • You need a conveyancer to handle the legal checks involved in the remortgage process. They can:

    • help with title checks
    • liaise with your lender
    • make sure your existing mortgage is repaid
    • register your new mortgage with the Land Registry. 

    This helps prevent legal or financial issues down the line.

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Help and guidance

Use our mortgages hub to discover everything you need to know about applying for a mortgage, moving house or remortgaging. 

Mortgage help

Help and guidance

Use our mortgages hub to discover everything you need to know about applying for a mortgage, moving house or remortgaging. 

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