When remortgaging your property, your mortgage provider will arrange for a valuation. While this is standard practice for any remortgage deal, many homeowners are left wondering if the valuation of their existing property is accurate. In this article, we’re going to focus on how the remortgage valuation process works, how lenders arrive at their valuations and how to find out whether your existing lender is offering fair value for money.
How will my current lender value my property?
Your current mortgage provider will undertake its own valuation to determine what products they can offer you. They generally perform an indexed valuation but it is sometimes possible to ask your lender to complete a proper valuation. You should do this if you feel your home is worth more than their valuation, maybe following some home improvements which they will not be aware of.
Why A Lender Needs To Perform A Valuation
When remortgaging, a valuation provides the lender with an indication of the current market value by taking into account comparable sales data. This valuation is then used by the lender to calculate the loan to value (LTV), this is the amount you borrow as a percentage of the value of your property. This will have a bearing on the sort of mortgage deals you are likely to be offered as part of your remortgage.
When Remortgaging How Do Lenders Value My Property?
When remortgaging, the lender is responsible for valuing your property. This valuation process involves appointing a qualified surveyor to assess the property's current market value relative to its purchase price or last refinanced amount. Various methods can be employed, including a full valuation by a surveyor, a drive-by valuation, or an automated desk-top valuation. The valuation is crucial as it determines the current Loan-to-Value ratio which directly impacts the remortgaging process and deals offered to you.
Can I Submit My Own Valuation In My Remortgage Application?
When seeking out remortgage deals, you can offer your own valuation prior to getting a remortgage without having to arrange for a surveyor to undertake a valuation – and this could of course help to save money. However, you will need to have a rough idea of the market value of your property before submitting your application. You can use online sites like Zoopla as a starting point, although these can sometimes be somewhat inaccurate. Another good way of doing this is to check in with one or two local estate agents, perhaps starting with the agent who originally helped you purchase your home.
Should I Get A Valuation From An Estate Agent?
You might think a valuation from an estate agent will help you to secure the best deal when remortgaging and you’d be right to do so. However, this will not always be the case as estate agents tend to provide enquirers with the value of the property as if it were to be listed on the market. This is not the same as a valuation offered by the bank and could be inflated slightly.
How Accurate Does My Own Individual Remortgaging Valuation Have To Be?
When submitting a remortgaging application in an attempt to get a better mortgage deal, you don’t need to worry about providing a valuation with pinpoint accuracy. It won’t be the end of the world if your own estimated valuation is slightly out. Lenders will arrive at their own conclusions with regard to the value of your property. You should however be mindful that if the lender doesn't share your optimisim and offers a lower valuation, this could negatively impact on the interest they offer you.
Will A Potential New Lender Charge Me For A Remortgaging Valuation?
When remortgaging, most new lenders will offer you a free valuation as an incentive to attract your business. Lenders are often keen to offer attractive remortgaging options which also often include free legals, where they instruct their own solicitor to handle your remortgage free of charge. (fees will apply if you require any other changes, for example a Transfer of Equity)
Can A Mortgage Lender Down-Value My Property?
A down-valuation is when a lender’s estimate of your property comes back lower than the valuation provided. If your lender has carried out a “drive by” valuation or ‘desktop’ mortgage valuation, you have every right to ask them to come and perform a physical property valuation. However, whilst some may charge a fee to complete a proper valuation, some lenders will in fact often decline to do so. If your lender has down-valued your property and you feel your proposed valuation is more than realistic, your next step should be to try an alternative lender as they may just offer a more reasonable valuation, thus ensuring that you secure the best possible deal.
What Is The Purpose Of Remortgaging?
There are lots of reasons why homeowners choose to remortgage their property, including the following:
To release equity towards some home improvements
To reduce existing monthly payments
To pay off a mortgage sooner
To raise capital for another purpose
To consolidate some unsecured debt
Is It A Good Idea To Keep Remortgaging?
Homeowners on fixed rate deals will find it necessary to remortgage once the deal comes to a close. Otherwise, the homeowner will find themselves sitting on the standard variable rate (SVR), which could mean paying a much higher interest rate than the initial arrangement.
Thinking About Remortgaging? Get Help From A Mortgage Broker Today
If you want to understand more about remortgaging and what's involved, why not get in touch with Beechwood Mortgages today? With a wealth of experience, our friendly, professional and knowledgeable team are here to offer advice on how to get the most out of your remortgage. For further information, call, email or use our online contact form and we’ll be happy to assist you further.
Published by Beechwood Mortgages Ref: 219335 with review and approval from Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions Limited who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Ref: 454811.