Autumn is a surprisingly popular time to buy a home. With Christmas on the horizon, many buyers are motivated to complete before the year ends, and sellers are often more open to negotiation. But if you're planning to move this side of December, there's no time to lose.
At Skyline, we speak to buyers every day who are eager to secure their next home before the festive season. But rushing the process, or missing small but crucial steps, can cost you time, money and peace of mind.
Here are 5 mortgage mistakes to avoid if you're planning to buy this autumn.
1. Waiting too long to get a Mortgage in Principle
You don’t need to wait until you find a property to speak to a broker or secure a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP). In fact, it’s one of the best things you can do early.
An AIP shows sellers and estate agents you’re serious, and tells you exactly what you can afford. In busy markets or when time is tight (like now), buyers without an AIP risk being overlooked in favour of those who are mortgage-ready.
Skyline tip: We can usually secure your AIP in under 24 hours, giving you clarity and confidence to start viewing.
2. Assuming your bank offers the best rate
It’s natural to think your existing bank will offer you a great deal, but they rarely show you everything on the market. With over 90 UK lenders and hundreds of mortgage products, it’s easy to miss better-value options if you’re not comparing widely.
Rates changes are commonplace in today’s market, and while they’re lower than this time last year, some of the best fixed deals may not be advertised directly to consumers.
Skyline tip: We’re a whole-of-market broker, which means we compare deals from across the UK, not just one lender. And we tailor everything to your individual needs.
3. Focusing only on the interest rate
A low rate might look great on paper, but it doesn’t always mean a better deal overall. Some mortgages come with high product fees, early repayment charges or limited flexibility, costing you more in the long run.
If you're planning to move again in the next few years, or want the option to overpay, those terms matter. We help you weigh up the total cost, not just the headline rate.
Skyline tip: We break down each mortgage option into real numbers, so you know exactly what you’re paying across the life of the deal.
4. Leaving it too late to act
With a typical property transaction taking 8–12 weeks to complete, you’ll need to move quickly if you want to be in before Christmas. Mortgage applications can take time too, especially during busy periods.
Autumn tends to bring a spike in buyers who delayed their summer plans, so lenders and solicitors often get swamped. Starting early gives you the breathing room to make smart decisions rather than rushed ones.
Skyline tip: Some lenders let you secure a mortgage offer for up to 6 months, giving you time to find the right property without pressure.
5. Going it alone without advice
A mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Yet too many buyers try to navigate it alone, only to end up confused, delayed or paying more than they need to.
Working with an independent broker like Skyline doesn’t just mean access to better deals, it means having someone who can explain everything clearly, spot potential pitfalls, and handle the paperwork for you.
Skyline tip: Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced mover, we tailor everything to your situation, and we’ll always put your best interests first.
Ready to make a move?
If you’re hoping to move before Christmas or lock in a deal before year-end, now’s the time to act.
Book a free online chat with Tony here
No pressure, just straightforward, expert advice tailored to you.
Your home (or property) may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debts secured on it. A fee may be charged for mortgage advice. The amount will depend on your circumstances.
Skyline Mortgage Consultants Ltd is an Appointed Representative of The Right Mortgage Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.