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We've been trusted by thousands of customers for life insurance since 2013. Appy for a quote in confidence with Lending Expert.

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Protection Experts

We’re secured loan experts. This means we know our stuff when it comes to loans! We know where the best rates are and have access to exclusive deals just for Lending Expert customers.

Huge Market Comparison

We’re not tied to one lender which means we can search the wider market to find you the cheapest debt secured loans from across the UK.

Authorised & Regulated

Lending Expert is an FCA regulated credit broker which means you can be assured you are dealing with a legitimate and reputable finance company.

Flexible Lending

If you have bad credit or have previously been refused a secured loan we can consider your application. Whatever your circumstances please get in touch to see how Lending Expert can help.

FAQ's

How long does it take to get a secured loan?

Loans can be completed within a matter of a few weeks assuming all the application and supporting documents are provided quickly. Perform an eligibility check here on Lending Expert to compare rates and get expert advice from an approved broker.

Do I need to be a homeowner?

Yes, as these types of loans are secured against your home in the same way a mortgage is. They are often referred to as a second charge loan or homeowner loans.

Do I need to pay any upfront fees?

No, there are no up front fees to pay. However, there is a loan broker fee and lender fees to pay upon completion of the loan. In most cases there is also a home survey/valuation fee to pay in addition to the broker and lender fee. These fees and the amount to pay will be explained to your prior to taking out an application.

Are these types of loans suitable for buy to let?

Yes, secured loans can be taken out on buy to let property.

What are the alternatives to secured loans?

There are many alternatives to secured loans if you do not want to risk using your property as collateral. There are unsecured loans if you prefer to borrow money without your house at risk - and your eligibility will be based on your income and credit score. In addition, you can consider a guarantor loan whereby you have an extra person you know to act as your guarantor and agree to cover your repayments if you cannot.

How much can I borrow?

The amount you can borrow will depend on factors such as home equity and affordability. A quick assessment from a secured loan broker will be able to establish how much you are able to borrow and how much the loan will cost.

Why not just remortgage?

A secured loan has many benefits over a remortgage and in many cases will be the best solution such as: If your credit rating has worsened since taking out your first mortgage, remortgaging could mean you end up paying more interest on your entire mortgage, rather than just on the extra amount you wish to borrow. If your existing mortgage has a high early repayment charge (ERC), it may be cheaper for you to take out a second charge mortgage rather than to remortgage.

Are secured loans available to self employed?

Yes. If you are self employed either as a sole trader or company director you can apply for a second charge loan. You must have a minimum of 6 months of trading and be able to provide proof of income.

Can I get a homeowner loan without proof of income?

No. You will be required to show proof of suitable income to demonstrate you can afford the loan repayments. SA302 and accountants projection accepted as proof of income for self employed applicants.

What purpose can a secured loan be used for?

Secured loans can be used for any legal purpose such as debt consolidation, home improvements, tax bills, business use or to purcase a new car for example.

What is the maximum secured loan to value (LTV)?

Loans can be arranged up to 100%, and 95% LTV loan to value with a small handful of lenders. The lower the LTV the more attractive the interest rates and fees are.

Can I appy with a bad credit history?

Our lenders do accept CCJs and Defaults (even in the last 12 months) If you have a bad credit history then there are a selection of second charge lenders who offer loans within this category. Your secured loan broker will be best to advise you on which lenders and products will be available and the interest rates chargable.

What is the maximum term for a second charge loan?

Second charge loans are like mortgages and loan terms can arranged up to 35 years for some lenders while others will have a maximum loan period of 25 years for example.

Are secured loans available on ex council houses?

Yes, our lenders will consider secured loans for:

  • ex-council houses, flats and maisonettes
  • high-rise properties (yes, even ones above 6 floors)
  • properties with poor valuations (when the property is in a less than perfect condition)
  • non-standard constructions (When the property you want is a little out of the ordinary)
  • normal brick-built houses, flats and maisonettes
  • properties where more than 40% will be owner occupied

Are there any early repayment charges (ERC's)?

Yes and no, not all products on offer here will come with ERC's. The broker will be best to advise on the individual lender products and which ones carry early repayment charges.

How much do secured loans cost?

Rates for secured loans start from 3.34% APRC, with the rates charged dependent on factors such as income, outstanding debt, credit score, value of your property and equity in your home. Additional fees may apply including broker, arrangement, valuation and solicitor fees - especially for borrowing large amounts.

Can I take out a secured debt consolidation loan?

Yes. Debt consolidation is a popular option with many customers who take out these types of loans. If you would like to learn more then request a quote from our approved brokers here on the website.

Are secured loans easier to get?

If you have bad credit then you may find that secured loans are easier to get when compare to an unsecured loan for example. This is because the lender has additional security in the form of your home or property.

Is a secured loan a good idea?

A secured loan may be a good idea if you are unable to get an unsecured loan as a lender may be more willing to borrow to you on a secured basis. It is important to check you are able to afford the repayments and the loan is affordable. To get an idea of the repayments and costs then contact a broker here on Lending Expert.

How much collateral is needed for a secured loan?

For a homeowner loan you will need a maximim of 5% equity as collateral for a small secured loan. The more collateral you are able to offer then the more preferable interest rates you will be offered. Perform an eligibility check here on Lending Expert to compare rates and get expert advice.

What credit score is needed for a secured loan?

Secured loans are available for a range of people with mixed credit scores. Loans are available for excellent and bad credit applicants, and products are available to suit most credit types. Perform an eligibility check here on Lending Expert to compare rates and get expert advice.

What is needed for a secured loan?

A secured loan is one that requires collateral such as property, assets, or cash. A few common types of secured loans include mortgages, homeowner loans, and car loans. If you don't pay back your secured loan, the lender could take repossession the property you put up to get the funding.

Do you get a better rate of interest with a secured loan?

Borrowers who use a secured or homeowner loan will also typically pay a lower rate of interest than with an unsecured personal loan. Lenders will see you as less of a risk because the loan is secured against your home or buy to let property if you are unable to repay it. Perform an eligibility check here on Lending Expert to check interest rates and get expert advice from a broker.

Can secured loans be written off?

If you're struggling with your loan repayments, speak to your lender as they may be able to help. Don't just stop paying, as your property could be put at risk of repossession. A lender is unlikely to write of any debts as the loan is secured against a property or your home.

Can I sell my house with a secured loan on it?

Yes it is possible to sell your house and the money from the sale to pay off your secured loan alongside your first charge mortgage. Your conveyancing solicitor will normally handle the repayment of your loan and deal with the lender as part of the sale process.

What are the benefits of a secured loan?

You can often borrow larger amounts because lenders are more confident that they will get their money back, either from loan repayments or sale of the property. Secured loans are often popular for larger loans over £10K with longer repayment terms up to 35 years. If you have adverse credit then secured loans typically come with a lower interest rate than unsecured loans

What is the max LTV (Loan to value)?

The max LTV or loan-to-value is 95% with a limited number of lenders. These higher LTV products are more expensive as they charge higher interest charges, and are limited to smaller value loans.

You can quickly apply online for life insurance with Lending Expert's trusted protection advisors. Simply check your eligibility for a quote to get started.

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