If your current fixed-rate mortgage ends soon, the key is to start early so your next deal is ready to begin the day your fix finishes. Starting around six months before your end date gives you time to compare lenders, line up paperwork, and avoid slipping onto a costly Standard Variable Rate (SVR).
Why starting early matters
- Most offers last 3–6 months: Many lenders will let you secure a rate in advance so it starts when your current fix ends.
- Remortgages take time: Switching to a new lender typically takes 4–8 weeks from application. Staying with the same lender (a product transfer) can be much quicker, often under a week.
- Avoid the SVR jump: If you do nothing when your fix ends, you’ll usually move to your lender’s SVR, which is often higher. Starting early helps you switch seamlessly.
The best time to start
A practical rule of thumb is to begin shopping for your next deal about six months before your fixed rate ends. Many lenders allow you to apply and hold a remortgage offer this far in advance. For simple “product transfers” with your current lender, the booking window is often four months (some lenders are three months), so don’t leave it too late.
A simple timeline to follow
Example: your fixed rate ends on 30 June 2026.
- By 31 December 2025 (≈ 6 months out): Start comparing deals or speak to a broker; check what your current lender will offer vs the wider market.
- January–February 2026 (5–4 months out): Get documents ready (ID, payslips, bank statements, proof of income if self‑employed) and request an Agreement in Principle.
- March–April 2026 (3–2 months out): Submit a full application for your chosen deal. Allow 4–8 weeks for underwriting, valuation and legals if switching lender.
- May–June 2026 (1 month out to completion): Your new deal is lined up to start the day your current fix ends, avoiding time on SVR.
How long mortgages take to set up
- Switching to a new lender (remortgage): Typically 4–8 weeks from application to completion, depending on lender workloads, valuation, and legal checks.
- Staying with your current lender (product transfer): Often 1–7 days, as there’s usually minimal underwriting and no legal work.
- Offer validity: Most mortgage offers remain valid for 3–6 months, letting you lock in ahead of time.
- Booking windows by lender: Many lenders allow product transfers about four months before your deal ends; some three, sometimes six. Check your lender’s current policy.
Checklist: make your remortgage smoother
- Know your fixed-rate end date and set a reminder six months before.
- Calculate your loan-to-value (LTV)—a lower LTV can unlock better rates.
- Gather documents early: ID, proof of address, payslips or SA302s, bank statements.
- Check and tidy your credit file before you apply.
- Compare a product transfer with remortgaging to a new lender—don’t assume your current lender is cheapest.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Leaving it too late: You might spend time on an expensive SVR while your remortgage completes.
- Early Repayment Charges (ERCs): If you try to switch before your fixed term ends, ERCs may apply—usually a percentage of your balance—so do the maths before breaking a fix.
- Changes in circumstances: A job move or big new credit commitments during underwriting can slow or derail the process.
Ontopp tip
Add your mortgage end date in Ontopp and set an early reminder at T‑6 months. You can assign a task to yourself or a teammate to gather documents, and add notes on lender options so your next deal is ready to go on time.
Bottom line
For most borrowers, the sweet spot is to start planning around six months before your fixed rate ends. That gives you room to compare, apply and complete—without paying SVR—and to pivot if better rates appear before completion.
This article provides general information, not financial advice. Mortgage criteria and lender timelines can change—consider speaking to a qualified broker for personalised guidance.
