It's not all doom and gloom in the current climate as the media would have you believe. I appreciate that many lenders are withdrawing loans, whilst at the same time increasing rates to make it difficult for homeowners to re-mortgage. However, I agree with Sam and feel there are still some good deals to be had... all you need to do is shop around.

just having a good credit rating and some decent equity in your house doesnt necessarily mean that you will be able to get a re-mortgage! Having applied though my current bank (who I've been with for over 5 years), I was refused! Only to be told that according to their scoring system, I was not eligible. Angry with the situation, I proceeded to approach another bank and was instantly accepted on a rate of 5.92% for 5 years. I even managed to release some equity for a small extension I had planned for several years. My current bank really let me down and I have since closed my account and moved it to my new one. Moral -keep trying, even in today’s climate, there are lenders out there who want to give you money.

Being a bad credit risk, one of the most difficult hurdles Ive had recently is getting a re-mortgage. Ive no experience in this area and approached several high street banks that all refused. I was then put in touch with a local IFA via a friend and managed to secure a loan for a three year fixed period.

A word of advice – If you are in a similar situation, forget the mainstream banks / building socs. & find a local mortgage advisor. It seems that these bad credit lenders often operate through them, even though they are usually owned by one of the main high street bodies!! So much for regulation eh!!!!

a lot of uk home owners have bought property without really assessing the risks. when taking out mortgages, most of them had forgotten that fixed rates would come to end, interest rates could rise and the banks could stop lending! i think greed has a lot to do with it and these people now deserve whats in store for them.

I first went through a re-mortgage a couple of years ago and all I had to do was sign the application form. Now, my financial advisor has asked for bank statements, wage slips, utility bills etc. etc. etc.....
I've been told that the bank will not process the application until they have this information. What a nightmare!

I'm trying to get a re-mortgage at the moment as my existing fixed rate ended last month. My main problem is that I have a CCJ against my name and low equity in my main home, which is about 10%.

I have re-mortgaged over the years to buy a couple of buy to let properties which arent producing yields I would have liked. i have been offered rates at over 6.55% which I feel are way too high.

So I guess in short, yes, it is hard!!

I'm sure this whole thing about borrowing works the wrong way round. Banks throw money at you when it's not required and then turn their back on you when you really need it.