Timber-framed house mortgages
In the past, getting a mortgage for a timber frame property was difficult. However, this is no longer the case. These frames have been used to build homes for hundreds of years, but mortgage lenders still consider timber-framed buildings a risk.
This article will explain timber-framed house mortgages, how to obtain one, the possible issues and how to avoid them.
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Is it possible to get a mortgage for timber-framed houses?
Yes. However, approval of your mortgage for a timber-framed house depends on many factors. Some mortgage lenders consider timber frame properties ‘nonstandard’ despite their popularity. They may be concerned about the property’s quality, longevity, and increased risk of fire damage.
These issues can make getting a timber frame mortgage difficult, but not impossible. The advisors that we work with can help you. Our network includes brokers who are experts in timber frame property mortgages. They are aware of all the potential pitfalls, and they know which lenders offer the best rates for these mortgages.
Requirements for eligibility
Many factors could affect your ability to obtain a mortgage on a timber frame home. If so, what terms might a lender offer?
Type and age of the property
The category of timber-framed houses offers a wide range of options. The less reliable timber-framed property varieties can lead to mortgage problems. There are over 200 types of timber frame properties on the market. It is essential to consider the time frame in which the property was constructed. However, newer properties are not always better. Reports indicate that houses built in the 1400s have held up better than those built in the 1970s.
A detailed survey is essential. Your lender may request a timber and damp survey to mortgage a timber framed property. This is to identify the type of timber frame you are dealing with.
This report could also include a complete structural engineering report. Surveyors may be unable to inspect the frame or inspect cavities filled with foam, which can cause problems. If this is something you are concerned about or the lender, ‘hidden defects insurance’ might be necessary.
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Other materials in the property
Lenders often care about the exterior and cladding of the building. Lenders prefer timber-framed properties that have a predominant brick or stone exterior. A timber-framed house with an exterior made of more fragile materials, such as metal sheeting or timber, could make it more challenging to get a mortgage.
The mortgage lender
Timber-framed properties are often more attractive to lenders. – at higher rates. Our expert advisors will be able to help you locate one of these lenders.
Your credit history
Your credit history will influence how risky your lender considers you. This can be a problem, but it is not usually a deterrent. Recently missed payments, defaults, or repossessions can all affect your credit history. Our article on Bad Credit Mortgages will help you understand how credit history affects your application.
A mortgage is required to finance a timber-framed extension.
Although theoretically possible, a timber-framed extension may require a specialist lender. Some lenders are strict about what exterior finishes they allow.
Timber frame extensions are more affordable than traditional ones because they require less labour. However, whether you’re refinancing an existing mortgage or taking out a new one for a property you already own, it is essential to ensure the extension adds value to your home beyond the cost of the bankroll.
Do I need planning permission?
Permitted Development Rights (PD) allow you to expand if the project is not larger than a predetermined size. Any project that exceeds the PD criteria will need planning permission from your local authority. If your property is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or Conservation Zone, you should consult the local council.
Can I get a mortgage for a house with timber cladding
Timber cladding is a good option for specialist lenders if the property you are interested in is timber clad. Many mortgage lenders will accept decorative cladding above blockwork. However, they may reject you if there is no blockwork underneath the timber cladding.
Lenders do not recommend Timber cladding because it is expensive and requires frequent maintenance. If the owner fails to maintain it, the home will lose its value, making it more challenging to sell if the lender takes possession.
The amount of timber cladding on the property may impact your choice of lender. Some lenders will lend if the home is covered by timber cladding, while others only allow you to borrow on the first floor.
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Timber lodge mortgages
You have two options to finance the purchase or construction of a timber lodge: apply for a mortgage on a log cabin from a niche lender, or go down the self-build mortgage route. Log cabin mortgages tend to have higher insurance and interest rates than self-build mortgages.
It is harder to get self-build mortgages than standard residential loans. If you require one to finance a nonstandard construction property, such as a log cabin or a lodge, it is essential to seek specialist advice.
This is a specialist lending market, but with the help and support of our whole-of-market broker, you will have the best chance to find timber lodge financing at favourable rates.
The link below will begin your timber-framed house mortgage journey.
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Can I get a mortgage to buy a timber-frame home?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements of the lender. A timber frame property can be mortgaged if it meets the same criteria as a residential property.
Only the affordability of the loan is different. The viability of the investment will be the main factor in a mortgage provider’s lending decision on whether the monthly rent income is sufficient to cover the mortgage payments.
Timber-framed properties can be self-built mortgages.
You may be able to obtain a self-build mortgage to build a timber-frame home, provided you have the skills and resources to do so. Due to their energy efficiency and speed, timber frame is very popular among self-build mortgage borrowers.
Self-build mortgages are typically released in stages as the building progresses. Most lenders require site inspections before each stage to verify the work. For a timber frame self-build mortgage, specialist advice is essential. To find out your options, contact a whole-of-market advisor.
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Problems with a timber frame house
Timber frame houses, like many other non-standard properties, can be more challenging to sell or insure. The perceived fire risk from a timber frame will concern insurers, while property buyers and lenders may be more concerned about a wooden frame house. This is because it might be less durable than standard construction properties.
Talk to an expert about a timber frame property mortgage
No matter what property type, one of the whole-of-market mortgage brokers we work with can help you get the financing you need to purchase the property you desire.
Our expert mortgage brokers offer a great source of mortgage advice for timber-framed homes. Sometimes they can even get you broker-only deals or lenders that aren’t available to the public.
The mortgage brokers will know from experience which lenders are most suitable for you and save you the stress, time, and money of rejecting applications.
Click the link below for a mortgage on timber-framed buildings. We can help with any residential and commercial mortgage. Timber framed houses are very popular in this day and age. We work with these mortgages daily.
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FAQ
What is a timber frame property?
It’s simply a property that has a timber frame. Although timber frame construction is becoming more popular, houses constructed this way for many years are still in use. Timber-framed dwellings often have an outer layer of brick, so it is not immediately apparent if the house has a timber frame.
Timber frames are inexpensive to build and can be used in many new homes. However, they can vary in quality, just like other houses.
What are the main problems with timber frame properties
Timber decay and dampness are the main problems that timber-framed properties can face. Timber frames are increasingly being used in the construction of many properties. These timber frames are often much more affordable than older models.
Contact us now to talk about a timber-framed house mortgage with a specialist
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