What types of mortgages can you get?

Choosing a mortgage is one of the most important steps in buying a home. The type you choose affects your monthly payments, how quickly you build equity and how much interest you pay over the long term. With a wide range of mortgage options available, understanding the differences helps you make a decision that suits your budget and long-term plans.

Below is a clear breakdown of the main types of mortgages available in the UK and what each one offers.

Fixed-rate mortgage

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps your interest rate the same for an agreed period, usually 2, 5 or 10 years.

Good for people who want:

Predictable monthly payments
Protection from interest rate rises
A clear budget during the fixed term

Things to keep in mind: You may face early repayment charges if you want to switch deals or repay the loan during the fixed period. When your fixed term ends, you usually move to the lender’s standard variable rate unless you remortgage.

Variable-rate mortgage

A variable-rate mortgage means your interest rate can go up or down. Payments will rise or fall depending on rate changes.

There are two main types:

1. Standard variable rate (SVR)

This is the lender’s default rate. It’s usually higher and can change at any time.

2. Discounted variable rate

This gives a discount on the lender’s SVR for a set time. For example, if the SVR is 6% and your discount is 1%, you’d pay 5%.

Best for people who: Don’t mind changes in monthly payments and want flexibility without long fixed terms.

Tracker mortgage

A tracker mortgage follows the Bank of England base rate plus a set percentage. For example:

Base rate 5% + lender fee 1% = 6% pay rate.

Why people choose them:

Rates can drop, lowering monthly payments
They’re usually straightforward and transparent

Potential downside: Payments increase whenever the base rate rises.

Tracker deals sometimes come with early repayment charges, so check the details before applying.

Interest-only mortgage

With an interest-only mortgage, you pay only the interest each month. The amount borrowed stays the same until the end of the term, when you must repay it in full.

Suitable for:

Some buy-to-let investors
Borrowers with a clear repayment plan (investments, property sale, savings)

Important point: Lenders will require proof of how you plan to repay the balance. This option carries more risk for homebuyers because the debt itself doesn’t shrink during the mortgage term.

Repayment mortgage

A repayment mortgage is the most common choice for residential buyers, as each monthly payment covers interest and a portion of the loan. Therefore, by the end of the term, the mortgage is fully paid off.

Why it works for most people:

Debt reduces every month
No need for a separate repayment strategy
Often seen as lower risk

Repayment mortgages can be paired with fixed or variable rates.

Buy-to-let mortgage

Buy-to-let mortgages are designed for people purchasing property to rent out. These mortgages usually require:

A larger deposit (often 20–25%)
Evidence of rental income that covers the mortgage
Higher fees and different affordability checks

Most buy-to-let loans are interest-only, but repayment options exist too.

Government-backed options

Some buyers may qualify for government-supported schemes that help with affordability or deposits.

Shared ownership

You buy a percentage of the home (usually 25–75%) and pay rent on the rest, so over time, you can buy more of the property.

Right to buy

Council tenants may be able to buy their home at a discount.

How to choose the right mortgage for you

The best mortgage depends on your income, deposit size, long-term plans and comfort with payment changes. Many people work with a mortgage broker & adviser to compare deals, understand lender criteria and choose a mortgage suited to their financial situation.

Before deciding, think about:

Whether you want predictable payments
How long you plan to stay in the home
Your deposit size and credit history
How much flexibility you need
Whether rising rates would affect your budget

A mortgage is a long-term commitment, so clarity upfront makes the whole process smoother.

Picking the right mortgage for your needs

Understanding the types of mortgages available helps you feel more confident as you move through the home-buying process. Each option has benefits and limitations, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, goals and finances.

With the right guidance and a clear knowledge of how each mortgage works, you’ll be in a strong position to choose a deal that supports your long-term plans.

[disclosure*]

How a virtual number in Switzerland can transform your communication experience

Are you planning a trip to Switzerland or considering relocating there for work purposes? Struggling with the idea of managing communications without incurring high costs or facing logistical challenges? Curious about how you can maintain a professional image while navigating the picturesque Swiss landscape? If these concerns resonate with you, you’ve come to the right place.

In this post, we’ll explore how having a virtual number in Switzerland can enhance your communication strategy, ensuring you stay connected effortlessly while enjoying all that Switzerland has to offer.

Why a virtual number is a game changer for communication in Switzerland 📞

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and high quality of life, but it also presents unique challenges for communication, especially for expatriates and business professionals. Here’s why a virtual number can make all the difference:

Avoiding expensive roaming fees: International roaming charges can be steep. A virtual number helps you avoid these fees by providing a local Swiss number, ensuring cost-effective communication.
Maintaining a professional image: Whether you’re a business professional or a freelancer, having a Swiss number enhances your credibility and makes it easier for clients and colleagues to reach you.
Simplifying communication management: Managing multiple numbers can be cumbersome. A virtual number consolidates your communication needs into one convenient solution.

What’s a virtual number? 🤔

A virtual number is a phone number that operates over the internet rather than being tied to a physical phone line. It offers several advantages:

Local communication: Receive and make calls as if you had a local Swiss phone number.
Call forwarding: Forward calls from your virtual number to your primary phone or any device you prefer.
Privacy protection: Keep your personal number private while using the virtual number for business or local communication.

The benefits of a virtual number in Switzerland 🌟

Here’s how a virtual number can enhance your experience in Switzerland:

1. Cost-effective communication

Avoid the high costs associated with international roaming by using a virtual number in Switzerland. This number allows you to make and receive calls at local rates, saving you money and simplifying your communication.

2. Professionalism and local presence

A Swiss virtual number enhances your professional image by providing you with a local presence. This is especially beneficial if you’re dealing with national clients or businesses who prefer to communicate via a local number.

3. Flexible communication options

With a virtual number, you can easily manage your communication needs. Set up call forwarding to ensure you never miss important calls and use the number for both personal and professional purposes as needed.

How to set up a virtual number in Switzerland 🛠️

Setting up a virtual number in Switzerland is a straightforward process. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a reputable virtual number provider

Select a reliable provider for your needs. Telnum offers various virtual number services, including those tailored for Switzerland.

2. Select your Swiss virtual number

Choose a virtual number that suits your needs, whether for personal use, business purposes or both. Having a local number can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived by Swiss contacts.

3. Configure call forwarding

Set up call forwarding to direct calls from your virtual number to your main phone or another preferred device. This ensures that you stay reachable, no matter where you are.

4. Manage your settings

Regularly review and adjust your virtual number settings to ensure they meet your current needs. This helps you maintain efficient communication as your situation changes.

Tips for maximising your virtual number in Switzerland

To make the most out of your Swiss virtual number, consider these practical tips:

Update your contact information: Make sure your clients and business contacts have your Swiss virtual number for seamless communication.
Use Wi-Fi whenever possible: To minimise data usage, use Wi-Fi for calls and messages whenever possible.
Be aware of local time zones: When scheduling calls, be mindful of time differences to ensure you’re reaching your contacts at convenient times.

Conclusion: Elevate your communication with a Swiss virtual number

A virtual number in Switzerland is more than just a convenience; it’s a powerful tool that can enhance your communication, save you money and maintain your professional image. Whether you’re an expatriate, a business professional or simply visiting Switzerland, a virtual number ensures you stay connected without the hassle of international roaming charges.

For more information on setting up your Swiss virtual number and to explore the options available, visit Telnum’s virtual number services.

Stay connected and enjoy your time spent in Switzerland with the ease and flexibility of a virtual number! 🌟

[disclosure*]

Heritage house design – mixing vintage style with timeless quality

Why heritage house design is moving us away from the disposable interior

There’s a specific kind of magic found in homes that feel “assembled” rather than “bought”. If you spend any amount of time browsing through vintage interiors or mid-century design archives, you’ll quickly notice a common thread: a deep respect for materiality. In the mid-20^th century, products were manufactured and built with the expectation that they’d last a lifetime. And today, as we navigate a world of “fast interiors”, many of us are now looking backward to find a way forward, choosing pieces that offer both a nod to the past and a commitment to the future.

But creating a home with soul isn’t about living in a museum. It means choosing fixtures and furniture that possess a certain architectural integrity. Here’s how you can embrace a heritage-led approach to your home styling.

The architectural weight of heating

In many modern renovations, the radiator is something to be hidden, boxed in with MDF or painted the same colour as the wall to make it disappear. But in a heritage-focused home, the heating system is part of the room’s character.

If you’re looking to replace tired, characterless panel heaters, column radiators are the perfect bridge between vintage charm and modern performance. Their segmented, tubular design feels inherently “designed” rather than just manufactured. Whether finished in a bold, glossy retro shade or a muted, matte metallic, they provide a structural rhythm to a wall.

For those looking to get the details exactly right, Column Radiators 4u stands as an authority on the subject, helping homeowners select the perfect configuration to suit the unique scale of their rooms.

Aside from providing mere warmth, these pieces offer a sense of permanence and “heft” that will elevate the entire aesthetic of your room.

Sourcing with intent

A heritage-inspired home thrives on the “high-low” mix – pairing a high-quality, new architectural fixture with a weathered, second-hand find. The hunt for the perfect piece is half the fun. When sourcing vintage furniture, look for the hallmarks of quality: dovetail joints on drawers, solid wood backs and original brass hardware.

Mixing a sleek, 1960s sideboard with a heavy, traditional radiator creates a tension between eras that feels incredibly sophisticated. It tells a story of a home that has evolved over decades, rather than one that was finished in a single weekend.

The return of the “living” finish

In the 1990s and 2000s, “maintenance-free” was the buzzword of home design, leading to a surge in plastics and lacquered metals. But walking the path of the heritage philosophy means leaning toward “living” finishes – materials that age, patina and change over time:

Unlacquered brass: Watch it darken and dull, developing a unique character based on where you touch it.
Natural linen: Embrace the creases; they’re a sign of a natural, breathable fibre.
Reclaimed wood: Every scratch and knot is a piece of history.

By allowing your home to age, you remove the stress of keeping everything in “perfect” condition. A home that proudly wears its history is inherently more relaxing than one that demands constant polishing.

Colour palettes borrowed from history

To truly ground your home in a sense of heritage, look to historical colour palettes. And no; this doesn’t mean limiting yourself to drab browns. The 1930s gave us beautiful eau-de-nil and primrose yellows; the 1950s brought us vibrant teals and atomic oranges.

When integrating modern elements like your heating or kitchen appliances, consider how their finish interacts with these historical hues. A dark anthracite column radiator against a deep terracotta wall creates a moody, Victorian-meets-modernist vibe that somehow feels both timely and timeless.

Lighting as an artefact

Lighting should never be purely functional. Every lamp, every fixture is an opportunity to add a sculptural element to your living space. Look for iconic silhouettes – the gentle curve of a Guzzini-style mushroom lamp or the industrial utility of a machinist’s task light.

Layering your lighting is key to making heritage features stand out. Use spotlights to wash light over the textures of a brick wall or the rhythmic columns of a radiator, creating shadows that add depth and drama to the room after dark.

Why we should build for the next generation

The “Slow Design” movement encourages us to think about where our items come from – and where they’ll go when we’re finished with them. By choosing authentic materials; such as steel, wood, stone and wool, we’re choosing items that can be repaired, repurposed or recycled.

Investing in quality fixtures from trusted authorities ensures that your home isn’t just a place you live right now, but a legacy you’re maintaining. In a world that feels increasingly temporary, there’s something profoundly radical about building a home that’s designed to last.

[disclosure*]

Inside the junk removal process: What really happens after you call

Calling a junk removal company may seem like a small task, but it sets a detailed and well-coordinated process in motion. What looks effortless on the surface is actually a series of planned actions designed to remove clutter safely, efficiently and responsibly. From initial conversation to final disposal, in junk removal services, each stage plays a crucial role in delivering a seamless experience and a clean space.

The initial contact and understanding your situation

The process begins when you contact a junk removal company by phone, in person or online. During this first interaction, the company focuses on understanding your specific needs rather than offering a generic solution. They ask about the type of items you want removed, the size of the clean-up and any access challenges, such as stairs or narrow entryways. This step helps the company prepare the right crew and equipment, ensuring there are no surprises on service day.

Planning and appointment confirmation

Once the details are obvious, the company schedules a visit that fits your timeline. Many junk removal services are designed with convenience in mind, offering flexible appointment windows and quick turnaround times. Before the scheduled visit, you may receive a confirmation or reminder to ensure everything is aligned. You can prepare during this planning phase, which saves time and lowers stress levels.

Arrival and on-site evaluation

When the crew arrives, the process becomes hands-on. The team reviews the items to get removed and confirms the scope of work. In many cases, pricing gets finalised at this point based on volume or labour requirements. This transparent approach allows you to approve the service before anything gets removed. A professional crew takes time to answer questions and explain how the job will proceed, reinforcing trust and clarity.

Careful removal and handling of junk

Once the work begins, efficiency and safety take priority. The crew removes items, whether it is bulky furniture, broken appliances or accumulated household clutter. Protective measures are used to prevent damage to walls, floors and doorways. Trained professionals know how to handle heavy and awkward items without risking injury or property damage, a massive advantage over do-it-yourself removal.

Sorting items with purpose

A primary part of the junk hauling process happens behind the scenes but begins right on your property. Instead of treating everything as waste, responsible companies sort items as they go. Materials that can get recycled are separated and items in usable condition gets identified for donation. This thoughtful sorting helps reduce landfill waste and ensures items get handled in a way that benefits both the environment and the community.

Efficient loading and space management

As items get removed, they get loaded into the truck. Heavier items are secured to prevent shifting during transport, while lighter materials get arranged to maximise available space. This organised approach allows the crew to complete the job efficiently and minimises the number of trips required.

Transporting junk to the right facilities

After leaving your property, the job is far from over. The crew transports the collected items to the appropriate destinations based on their category. Reusable goods get sent to donation centres. Only legal waste gets delivered to approved disposal sites; recyclables get transferred to approved recycling facilities. This step requires knowledge of local regulations and partnerships with proper facilities, which professional companies handle seamlessly.

Responsible disposal and environmental considerations

Modern junk removal goes beyond simple disposal. Many companies are committed to environmentally responsible practices, ensuring that as much material as possible is reused or recycled. It reduces environmental impact and supports sustainability efforts. Proper disposal also helps customers avoid potential legal or environmental issues associated with illegal dumping.

Final checks and customer satisfaction

Once the junk has been removed and processed, the company may follow up to confirm your satisfaction. Your space is left clean, open and ready for its upcoming use. Whether you were clearing out a home, office or construction site, the visible transformation is immediate. This final step reflects the company’s commitment to quality service and customer care.

Why the process matters more than you think

Understanding what happens after you call a junk removal company reveals the actual value of the service. It is not about hauling items away and providing a structured, responsible solution to clutter. From planning and safety to recycling and disposal, every stage is designed to make your experience stress-free while protecting your property and the environment. Knowing the process helps you choose a reliable service and feel confident that your junk gets handled properly.

[disclosure*]