Firefighters can face numerous challenges when seeking a mortgage. They might change jobs within the service as their career progresses, or they might have a period of absence for one of many possible reasons. Let’s not forget that some firefighters only work on a part-time or emergency basis (on-call firefighters).
All of the above can cause changes to regular pay, which creates challenges when seeking a mortgage and proving income. Public Sector Mortgages is here to explain the support and options available for firefighters wanting a mortgage.
Use a specialist firefighter mortgage broker
Not all mortgage advisers are the same. Some mortgage advice services are tailored to people working in unique professions, including firefighters. If you work in the fire service, you should consider getting firefighter mortgage advice instead of using generic mortgage advice services.
The benefits of choosing firefighter mortgage advice are:
- Receive bespoke advice from advisers who already understand the challenges facing (part-time) firefighters, especially regarding challenges with payslips, bonus payments, etc.
- Firefighter mortgage advisers may already know which lenders are more accepting of the issues facing firefighters, and some lenders might even reward firefighters with better loan terms. They could help you get a better mortgage deal, even if you work as an on-call firefighter alongside other employment
- A specialist firefighter mortgage broker already understands the situation and firefighters won’t need to re-explain themselves, saving valuable time!
- You still receive all the important generic mortgage advice surrounding mortgage types, interest rates, credit scores and more
Further support from the firefighter community
Additional housing guidance can be accessed from the Firefighters' Pension Scheme (FPS). Some local fire stations and unions will also offer comparable support and information. Last but not least, don’t forget to speak with colleagues who may have already gone through the mortgage application process with a challenging circumstance.
Help from the government and financial bodies
The UK Government and financial bodies are also helping people to get on or move up the property ladder. The Help to Buy Scheme is the latest government initiative to help first-time buyers get a property without requiring the standard 20% deposit. Firefighters could get a property with as little as a 5% deposit. General financial advice can also be found by visiting the Money Advice Service website or from the National Firefighters' Credit Union.
Public Sector Mortgages can assist firefighters!
Public Sector Mortgages offers bespoke mortgage advice services to the people who keep us safe and healthy. We have already helped scores of firefighters secure the mortgage they need for the home they want.
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the mortgage options available to you, whether you’re a full-time, part-time or on-call firefighter. Don’t worry if you have unstable pay or have recently had a period of absence from work. Call now for a friendly chat with our fire service mortgage brokers to uncover your options.
