Blog

First-Time Buyer Mortgage FAQs in Plymouth: Your Complete Guide for 2026 Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. From deposits and credit scores to mortgage agreements and solicitor timelines, many first-time buyers across Plymouth and the wider Devon & Cornwall area are unsure where to start. This guide covers [...]

Top 5 Ways Plymouth Homeowners Use Equity Release in 2026 A complete guide for homeowners in Plymouth exploring equity release and lifetime mortgages. Equity release has become an increasingly popular financial solution for homeowners aged 55 and over who want to unlock the value tied up in their property without having to move. Whether you're [...]

Mortgage Declined? Here’s What You Can Do Next Getting your mortgage application declined can feel frustrating — especially if you’ve already found a property or started planning your move. But a declined mortgage or agreement in principle (AIP) doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t buy a home. In many cases, the issue can be resolved with [...]

First-Time Buyer Tips in Plymouth: Your Complete Guide to Getting on the Property Ladder Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. If you’re a first-time buyer in Plymouth, understanding the process, costs, and mortgage options available to you is key to making confident decisions. Why Buy Your First Home in Plymouth? [...]

Income Protection Insurance: A Must-Have for Mortgage Protection (A Quick Guide) Secure your income and keep your home safe Introduction Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make. Income protection insurance ensures you continue receiving income if illness or injury prevents you from working. What Is Income Protection Insurance? Income [...]

Why Are Mortgage Interest Rates Rising? A Clear Guide for UK Homeowners Mortgage rates have been climbing again, and many homeowners are asking why lenders are increasing rates even when the Bank of England base rate hasn’t moved. At Stuart Ash Mortgage Services, we’ve seen lenders pulling products with little notice, repricing multiple times a [...]

Mortgages for Directors of Limited Companies in Plymouth: A Complete Guide (2026) Introduction If you’re a director of a limited company in Plymouth, getting a mortgage can sometimes feel more complicated than it should be. Traditional lenders often focus on PAYE income, which means business owners can face extra checks when proving affordability. However, many [...]

Mortgages for Sole Traders in Plymouth: The Complete 2026 Guide Introduction If you’re a sole trader living or working in Plymouth, getting a mortgage may feel more complicated than it is for someone in full-time employment. Many self‑employed professionals assume that lenders will automatically reject their applications because they do not have a fixed salary. [...]