Adding Partners or Spouses to an Existing Mortgage

Adding Partners or Spouses to an Existing Mortgage
Adding partners or spouses onto an existing mortgage
Changing names on an existing mortgage is a legal procedure. First, you will need to apply to your lender. They will conduct standard income and credit checks. You will also need a solicitor to Add your partner’s name to the title deeds, a process known as 'transfer of equity'. In most cases, this can take several weeks, but it can be easier than you think.

Approach your existing lender


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When attempting to add a partner or spouse to your existing mortgage, there are many things you should do before approaching your existing lender. Mortgage providers are unlikely to agree to add another name to a loan. Before adding a new name, they will first check to see that the person is financially responsible and able to make the repayments. If you are adding your partner or spouse to an existing mortgage, you should also consider approaching other lenders to refinance the mortgage. Make sure the mortgage rate is competitive and that fees are reasonable.

Marriage is the most common way to add a spouse or partner to an existing mortgage. This is a natural way to combine your finances and share homeownership responsibilities. However, lenders are less likely to be amenable to the idea of adding someone's name without a refinancing. While this can be the best option for your situation, it's not always the best choice.

Remortgaging

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Remortgaging your partner onto your existing mortgage may be a viable option for you, especially if you're about to reach the end of your repayment period. Your spouse or partner may not qualify for the current mortgage and may want to be added to it for tax and insurance reasons. You can also add them to your property deeds if you're approaching the end of your repayment period.

The process of adding a spouse or partner onto your current mortgage will require you to speak to your lender to get permission. Your lender may not allow the transfer, and you will almost certainly have to pay the fees involved. You may also be subject to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) which is charged for purchases above a certain amount. This process can be complex so make sure you do your research before you attempt to remortgage.

You must apply to the lender for a new mortgage before you can remortgage your spouse or partner onto an existing mortgage. The lender will assess your ability to repay the mortgage, and may conduct a credit check. You may need to provide bank statements, payslips, or other documentation to prove that you have the income and assets to repay your mortgage. You may have to revalue the property if you are self-employed.

Although remortgaging your spouse or partner onto an existing mortgage may be less expensive than switching lenders, it's not always the best option. When remortgaging, make sure you take into account the amount of early repayment charge. This fee may be high enough to prevent you from remortgaging until the incentive period is over. If you are unhappy with your current mortgage, it may be a smart decision to remortgage your spouse or partner onto an existing mortgage.

Once you have determined how much equity each person has, the next step will be to determine how much equity it will take to get rid of your ex-spouse from your mortgage. This process is often done through a Transfer of Equity (TOE). Many lenders will allow this. You'll be responsible for a credit check and affordability check on both parties, and there are also legal and administrative fees. Despite the additional costs, many people make use of this opportunity to make changes to their mortgage and refinance with their partners.

Association of credit

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Adding your partner or spouse onto an existing mortgage will link both of your credit scores together, a process known as association of credits. Your credit report will include financial information about your partner, as they will be responsible for the payments on both your mortgages. Bad credit will have an adverse effect on your good score, making it difficult to remortgage or move house. Here are some facts about the process.

Your current mortgage lender may be willing to add your spouse or partner to your existing mortgage. Some may even do it for free, so don't be shy. Switching lenders could offer you a better deal. There are many good deals out there, so make sure you shop around to find the best deal. Listed below are some benefits of adding a partner or spouse to your existing mortgage.

Legal work

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Your lender will require background checks to be done on any spouse or partner you add to an existing mortgage. After all, you're jointly responsible for the mortgage payments. Lenders don’t want to add partners who could run away and not pay. Before adding a spouse or partner, lenders will want to check their criminal and credit histories.

If you are considering splitting up with your partner, you might need a solicitor. Although your mortgage lender may not allow this, you can transfer your equity. You may be eligible to receive legal fees from your ex-spouse depending on the terms of the divorce settlement. A solicitor will be able to advise you on whether you need to pay Stamp Duty and what your eligibility is.