Can You Remortgage with Help to Buy?

Yes, you can. Most people look to remortgage when their fixed-rate deal ends—typically after two, three, or five years. However, because Help to Buy mortgages are more specialised, your choice of lenders and products may be more limited compared to standard residential mortgages.

To make the process smoother, it’s a good idea to speak to a mortgage broker around six months before your current deal ends. We’ll help you explore all available options and guide you through the process.

Can You Remortgage to Repay the Help to Buy Equity Loan?

The Help to Buy equity loan is interest-free for the first five years. After that, interest starts to accrue annually. Some lenders may require the loan to be repaid before offering a new mortgage, but many will still consider you even if the loan remains in place.

You’re not obligated to repay the equity loan until you sell the property, but many homeowners choose to remortgage to repay it—either in full or in part. This is often easier if your property has increased in value, as you can release equity to fund the repayment.

Keep in mind that repaying the equity loan will increase your mortgage balance and monthly repayments, so affordability is key. Some borrowers choose to extend their mortgage term (e.g., from 25 to 35 years) to help manage the monthly cost.

Are There Many Lenders Offering Help to Buy Remortgages?

The number of lenders offering Help to Buy remortgages is more limited, as having two loans secured on the property can be seen as higher risk. These mortgages may also come with slightly higher interest rates and fees.

However, remortgaging is still likely to save you money compared to staying on your lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR), which typically has much higher interest rates.

How to Get the Best Help to Buy Remortgage Deal

There are two key factors:

1. Timing – Start the process around six months before your current deal ends. Mortgage offers are usually valid for six months, giving you plenty of time to secure a new deal.
2. Expert Advice – Working with a mortgage broker gives you access to a wider range of lenders, including those who don’t deal directly with the public. We’ll help you find the most suitable product for your circumstances.

You’ll also benefit from better rates if your Loan to Value (LTV) ratio is lower. This means you owe less on your mortgage compared to the property’s value—either through repayments or property appreciation.

What If You’re in Negative Equity?

Negative equity means you owe more on your mortgage than your home is currently worth. Fortunately, this is rare in today’s property market. If it does happen, remortgaging becomes more difficult, and you may need to remain on the SVR until property values recover.

Making lump sum payments during this time can help reduce your mortgage balance and improve your position.