If your fixed-rate mortgage is due to end, you may be able to arrange a new deal before the current one finishes. In many cases, it is sensible to start reviewing your position up to 6 months ahead. Some lenders may allow eligible borrowers to secure a new rate several months before the existing deal ends, although exact timings vary.
This can give you more time to compare options, prepare documents and avoid moving automatically onto a lender’s standard variable rate. However, it does not mean every borrower can reserve every product early, or that switching will always be suitable.
Why timing matters
A remortgage review can involve more than choosing a new rate. You may need to check your current mortgage, any early repayment charge, lender fees, property value, income evidence and future plans.
If you leave the review too late, there may be less time to compare options or deal with lender questions. If you start too early, some products may not yet be available, or the offer period may not run long enough.
A sensible first step is to check your fixed-rate end date and ask when your current lender will allow you to choose a new product.
Remortgage timing checklist
| Area to check | What to review | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Deal end date | When your current fixed rate finishes | Helps avoid moving onto a standard variable rate |
| Early repayment charge | Whether a charge applies before the end date | Switching too soon could be costly |
| Offer window | How long a new offer or product switch remains valid | Some timings may not match your end date |
| Fees and costs | Product fees, valuation, legal work and exit fees | The lowest rate may not be the cheapest overall |
| Future plans | Moving, borrowing more or changing ownership | Product terms and charges may affect flexibility |
What does securing a rate mean?
Securing or reserving a rate usually means applying for a product before your current deal ends. If accepted, the new deal may be arranged to start when your existing fixed rate finishes.
This may help if rates change before completion, but it does not remove all risk. Lender rules, offer validity periods and product availability can vary. A mortgage offer may also depend on valuation, underwriting and the information you provide.
If another suitable option becomes available before the switch happens, some lenders may allow a change. This is not automatic, so check the lender’s process before relying on it.
What should you check first?
Before making a decision, review your current deal end date, early repayment charge, remaining balance, mortgage term, income, spending, credit commitments, property value, product fees and legal costs.
You should also check whether your current lender offers a product transfer, and whether switching to a new lender would require a full application. If the terminology is unclear, the mortgage jargon buster may help.
Staying or switching lender
A product transfer with your current lender may be simpler in some cases, especially if your circumstances have changed. However, it may not provide the most suitable option for everyone.
Switching lender may offer different choices, but it can involve affordability checks, credit checks, valuation and legal work. You can read more about mortgage advice, why use a mortgage broker and support from a mortgage adviser in Essex.
Think about wider plans
If you may move home soon, borrow more or change ownership, check how a new deal could affect you. Early repayment charges and product terms can matter.
You may also want to review home mover mortgages, buyers advice, conveyancing and home insurance. If you are buying for the first time, first-time buyer mortgage advice may be more relevant than remortgage advice.
FAQs
Can I secure a remortgage rate 6 months early?
Some borrowers may be able to review options around 6 months before their current fixed rate ends. The exact timing depends on lender rules, product availability and your circumstances.
Should I always secure a rate early?
Not always. It may give certainty, but you should still consider fees, flexibility, early repayment charges and whether your plans may change.
Can I change if rates fall later?
Some lenders may allow you to move to another available deal before completion, but this is not guaranteed.
Will I need another affordability check?
A new lender will usually assess affordability. A product transfer with your current lender may be treated differently, depending on the lender and your situation.
Can Alexandra Hamilton help me review my options?
You can complete a mortgage enquiry or contact Alexandra Hamilton to discuss your circumstances. Any recommendation would depend on your needs, affordability and available products.
Important information
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances and will be agreed with you before proceeding, but we estimate this to be £995.
