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While most homes in the UK have traditionally been built using bricks and mortar, there are a sizeable number constructed from non-traditional materials, such as steel and timber.
You may be concerned that these types of properties are not accepted as security by secured loan lenders, as some unfairly have developed a reputation for being difficult to buy and sell.
We take a closer look at the types of properties usually classed as non-traditional and explain why lenders are open to accepting them as security against a loan.
If you want to use a PRC property as security against the loan, there are specialist lenders that will allow it provided you can meet their criteria.
Pre-cast reinforced concrete (PRC) homes were built in-between the first and second world wars as a time and cost-efficient alternative to traditional bricks and mortar.
Because PRC properties are classed as non-traditional construction they may require a referral to the relevant lender.
During the property valuation process, the lender will need to verify the type of PRC property you own and its current condition. This is because certain PRC types but NOT all maybe on the Housing Defects Act 1984 and Housing Act 1985 list will need to have been repaired and have the appropriate certification confirming satisfactory repair has taken place need special consideration. If the PRC type is not on the Defects Act we can proceed as normal.
PRC certification will likely be required to confirm the company responsible for building the property and if any repairs have been carried out.
We work with several lenders that will allow you to use Wimpey No Fines or Laing Easiform properties as security against your loan.
Wimpey No Fines is a type of non-standard construction concrete property first built in the 1940s, at a time when skilled labour and traditional housing materials were in short supply.
Laing Easiform properties fall into the same category, although they are slightly older as they first appeared in the UK in 1919 in the aftermath of World War I.
If you need guidance on the type of documents you may need to submit, you can speak with one of our advisors who will be more than happy to help.
Steel-framed properties can be used as security for secured loans, and we can help you find the best match based on your circumstances.
They are another form of non-traditional housing that were first built in the post-World War II era as a quick solution to housing shortages, however some modern properties are also if this is case Lenders will usually ask you to provide the National House Building Council (NHBC) paperwork for your steel-framed property along with any other documents needed to meet their loan criteria.
There are some specialist secured loan lenders that will accept BISF (British Iron & Steel Federation) properties as security.
They are classes as a type of steel-framed non-standard construction house developed by the BISF and introduced in the UK from 1946 to satisfy housing demand.
It is important to note that BISF houses are not prefabricated (unlike Airey properties built during the same period) or temporary dwellings and are expected have a similar lifespan to traditional brick-built homes.
The vast majority of these properties are semi-detached, with a smaller percentage being terraced homes, which the lender will need to clarify as part of your application, along with the location.
A referral to a relevant lender may also be needed, and the Willows team can help you prepare your documents and answer any questions you have about using a BISF property as security.
Owners of timber-framed properties are usually able to use their homes as security without any issue.
Most lenders accept hardwood timber frame period houses and modern softwood timber-framed properties, provided they meet the usual valuation criteria for the loan.
You will be asked to provide the relevant documents for your property along with any other information needed to support your application.
As we have mentioned a few times above, lenders will usually carry out a valuation of your property to establish whether the request loan amount can be secured against the value of the property.
For non-traditional property types, which includes PRC, Wimpey, Laing and steel and timber-framed houses, lenders will likely want to get a more detailed report, so an in-person valuation may be required.
Physical valuations can also be required if the lender hasn’t lent in the area before or if they are not able to find the information, they need about the property online.
Once the lender has received the final report, they will then use it to determine the size of the loan they are willing to offer.
Getting a quote won’t affect your credit score
Finding the right finance doesn’t have to be complicated – so, we’ve made the process clear and simple. Whether you’re applying for a Secured Loan, Mortgage or Bridging Finance, we’ll compare the market for the best options that meet your criteria and provide you with a fast no-obligation quote.
There’s no reason why being the owner of a non-traditionally constructed property should get in the way of finding the financial help you need.
While there may be some additional steps involved, with the right guidance you can find a solution that works for you and satisfies the lender’s loan criteria.
To find out more about how we can help, or if you have any questions about the type of properties accepted by secured loan lenders, you can speak with one of our expert advisors today by calling 01656 766 158.
If you have a question – we’d be happy to talk to you – simply call us…
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LOANS ARE SECURED AGAINST PROPERTY. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED UPON IT.
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At Willows Finance Ltd, we appreciate that your privacy is extremely important to you. With this in mind, we have put in place a number of measures to ensure that any personal details we obtain from you as a result of visiting this website is processed and maintained in accordance with accepted principles of good information handling and also in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988.
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Willows Finance Limited
Brocastle, Bridgend, CF35 5AS
Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Firm Reference Number: 670052
Company Number: 6678545 (Registered in England and Wales)
This document outlines the services we provide. If you need clarification, please contact us at 01656 766158.
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Other finance options may include:
Regulatory Status:
We offer an advised mortgage broking service and provide enough information for you to make an informed decision.
We are not independent financial advisers. Free debt advice is available from the Money Advice Service.
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Lenders may also have their own privacy policies which will be provided to you.
We charge a broker fee upon loan completion. The average fee is approximately 5%, depending on your situation.
Fee details:
No refund is offered after completion. You may pay upfront or add the fee to your mortgage. Fees and commission will be detailed in your ESIS and Mortgage Agreement.
You will receive a Mortgage Agreement and an ESIS document detailing:
You may cancel your application anytime before completion without any charge. Mortgages cannot be cancelled after completion.
Missing payments can lead to charges, repossession, and negative impacts on your credit rating.
Consolidating debt may result in higher long-term interest. Securing debt against your home increases risk.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it.
If you wish to complain, contact us at:
Willows Finance Limited
Brocastle, Bridgend, CF35 5AS
Tel: 01656 766158
You may be able to refer your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
We are covered by the FSCS. You may be eligible for compensation of up to £85,000 per person per firm for mortgage advice and arranging.
More info: www.fscs.org.uk
After processing your application, you’ll receive a Mortgage Agreement and have a 7-day reflection period.
Contact us during this period with any questions. To proceed, sign and return the agreement.
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