Specialist Mortgages in Reading & Caversham

Not everyone fits the standard mortgage criteria. At Templar Mortgages, we work with lenders who consider individual circumstances. Whether you have adverse credit, need a later life mortgage, want to release equity, or are using Right to Buy, we have the expertise to help.

Our specialist services

Adverse Credit Mortgages

Past credit problems do not have to prevent you from getting a mortgage. We work with specialist lenders who look at your current circumstances. The key is understanding which lenders will consider your specific credit issues and when the time is right to apply.

Later Life Mortgages (55+)

Age should not be a barrier to getting a mortgage. Later life mortgages are designed for borrowers aged 55 and over, including retirement interest-only mortgages. We work with lenders who understand income from pensions, investments, and other sources.

Equity Release*

Equity release and lifetime mortgages allow homeowners aged 55 and over to access the wealth tied up in their property without moving. Our Equity Release specialist advisors follow strict standards to ensure you receive appropriate advice and find the right service.

Right to Buy Mortgages

The Right to Buy scheme typically allows council and housing association tenants to purchase their home at a discount. We work with lenders who understand the Right to Buy process and can guide you through the application from start to finish.

How Templar Mortgages helps you

Free Consultation

We start with a free, no-obligation conversation about your situation. We can meet in person at our Caversham office, over the phone, or by video call.

Search & Recommendation

We search our extensive panel of lenders to find the options that best suit your circumstances. We explain your choices in plain English and recommend the most suitable solution.

Application to Completion

We handle everything from application through to completion. You will have easy access to your adviser throughout, making the process smooth and stress-free.

Why choose Templar Mortgages?

Plain English

We explain everything in clear, simple language without confusing jargon.

Local Expertise

Based in Caversham, we understand the Reading and Berkshire property market.

Extensive Market Access

We search our large panel of lenders for the right solution for you.

Transparent Fees

No hidden charges. We tell you upfront what our service costs.

FCA Regulated

Fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Common questions about specialist mortgages

What counts as adverse credit?

Adverse credit includes any negative marks on your credit file such as missed payments, defaults, County Court Judgements (CCJs), Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), debt management plans, or bankruptcy. Even small issues like missed mobile phone payments can affect your mortgage application. The severity, how recent it was, and whether it has been resolved all affect which lenders will consider you.

How long after a CCJ can I get a mortgage?

Some specialist lenders will consider applications immediately after a CCJ, though typically you will face higher interest rates. Generally, the more time that has passed since the CCJ was satisfied (paid off), the better rates you will access. After six years, the CCJ drops off your credit file entirely. We can assess your specific situation and let you know what is achievable now versus if you wait.

Can I get a mortgage after bankruptcy?

Yes, though timing matters. Most mainstream lenders want bankruptcy to be discharged for at least six years. However, specialist lenders will consider applications from 1-3 years after discharge, though with higher interest rates and larger deposit requirements (typically 25-40%). We work with lenders who understand that past financial difficulties do not necessarily reflect your current situation.

What is equity release and who is it suitable for?

Equity release and lifetime mortgages allow homeowners aged 55+ to access cash from their property without moving. The most common type is a lifetime mortgage where you borrow against your home and the loan (plus rolled-up interest) is repaid when you die, sell the property or move into care. Equity release is suitable for people who need capital and have no plans to move, but it reduces the inheritance you leave. It is not suitable for everyone and requires careful consideration. Equity release can also be used as part of an estate planning strategy.

What is a retirement interest-only mortgage?

A retirement interest-only (RIO) mortgage is designed for older borrowers (typically 55+). You only pay the monthly interest, with the capital repaid when you die, move into care, or sell the property. Unlike standard interest-only mortgages, there is no end date—the mortgage continues for life. RIO mortgages are assessed on your retirement income (pensions, investments, etc.) rather than employment income, making them suitable for retirees.

How much can I release through equity release?

The amount you can release depends on your age and property value. Typically, you can release 20-60% of your property value, with older homeowners able to release a higher percentage. For example, a 65-year-old might release around 35% while an 80-year-old might release 50%. The exact amount depends on the lender and product chosen. We can provide illustrations showing exactly how much you could release.

What is the Right to Buy discount?

The Right to Buy scheme gives council and housing association tenants the right to buy their home at a discount. The discount depends on how long you have been a tenant—typically £9,000 to £84,600 in England (limits vary by region and property type). You must have been a public sector tenant for at least three years. The discount is treated as part of your deposit, meaning you may be able to buy with little or no cash deposit of your own.

Are there restrictions after using Right to Buy?

Yes. If you sell your Right to Buy property within five years, you must repay some or all of the discount on a sliding scale. You must also offer to sell back to the council or housing association first if you sell within ten years. Some properties have additional restrictions. We explain all the implications before you proceed so you understand your obligations.

YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

*Lifetime Mortgage / Equity Release - A lifetime mortgage is not suitable for everyone and may affect your entitlement to means tested benefits, so it is important to seek financial advice before taking any action. If you are considering releasing equity from your home, you should consider all options available before equity release.
This interest accrued over the long term with a Lifetime Mortgage, may mean it is not the cheapest solution. As interest is charged on both the original loan and the interest that has been added, the amount you owe will increase over time, reducing the equity left in your home and the value of any inheritance, potentially to nothing.
Although the final decision is yours, you are encouraged to discuss your plans with your family and beneficiaries, as a Lifetime Mortgage could have an impact on any potential inheritance. We would also encourage you to invite them to join any meetings with your Financial Adviser so they can ask questions and join in the decision, as we believe it is better to discuss your decision with them before you go ahead.