Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our mortgage and insurance services. Can't
find what you're looking for? Get in touch with our team.

General

What services does IMT Mortgages provide?

We provide comprehensive mortgage and insurance services including residential mortgages, buy-to-let mortgages, bridging finance, commercial mortgages, remortgages, Sharia-compliant finance, life insurance, and general insurance.

Are you FCA regulated?

Yes, IMT Mortgages is fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures we meet the highest standards of professional conduct and client protection.

Do you charge fees for your services?

We offer a free initial consultation with no obligation. Our fee structure is transparent and will be clearly explained during your consultation. In many cases, we receive commission from lenders, which may reduce or eliminate direct fees to you.

How long does the mortgage process take?

The timeline varies depending on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Typically, residential mortgages take 4-8 weeks from application to completion, while commercial mortgages may take 6-12 weeks. We'll provide a realistic timeline during your consultation.

Mortgages

What deposit do I need for a residential mortgage?

Deposit requirements vary by lender and your circumstances. First-time buyers may be able to secure mortgages with as little as 5% deposit, while most lenders prefer 10-20%. We can help you find the best options for your deposit level.

Can you help if I'm self-employed?

Absolutely! We have extensive experience helping self-employed clients secure mortgages. We work with specialist lenders who understand self-employed income and can often provide more flexible criteria than high street banks.

What is a buy-to-let mortgage?

A buy-to-let mortgage is designed for purchasing property to rent out to tenants. These mortgages typically require a larger deposit (usually 25% minimum) and are assessed based on rental income potential rather than just your personal income.

Do you offer Sharia-compliant mortgages?

Yes, we provide Islamic finance solutions that comply with Sharia principles. These include Murabaha, Ijara, and Diminishing Musharaka arrangements for both residential and commercial properties.

Commercial Finance

What types of commercial properties can you finance?

We can arrange finance for various commercial properties including offices, retail units, warehouses, industrial premises, mixed-use buildings, and investment properties. Each case is assessed individually based on the property and your business needs.

What is bridging finance?

Bridging finance is short-term funding (typically 1-24 months) used to "bridge" a gap in financing. It's commonly used for property purchases at auction, chain breaks, refurbishments, or when quick completion is required.

How quickly can bridging finance be arranged?

Bridging finance can often be arranged much faster than traditional mortgages. In urgent cases, we can sometimes secure approval within 24-48 hours and complete within 1-2 weeks, depending on the complexity and lender requirements.

Insurance

Why do I need life insurance?

Life insurance provides financial protection for your family in the event of your death. It can pay off your mortgage, replace lost income, cover funeral costs, and ensure your loved ones can maintain their standard of living.

What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Term life insurance provides cover for a specific period (e.g., 25 years) and is typically cheaper. Whole life insurance provides lifelong cover and often includes an investment element, making it more expensive but potentially building cash value.

Do I need buildings and contents insurance?

If you have a mortgage, buildings insurance is typically mandatory. Contents insurance is optional but recommended to protect your personal belongings. We can help you find comprehensive coverage at competitive rates.