AKP recommend that anyone looking for advice on mortgages should speak to an independent adviser, to draw on their expertise and knowledge. There are tremendous number of mortgage products available and it is important to ask an independent mortgage adviser to look for a number of options to suit individual needs.

Is AKP regulated by the Financial Services Authority? Yes. Membership of these bodies ensures a top level of service and the assurance that we are qualified to offer advice and recommendation.

How much do I need to tell AKP about my affairs? It is important to be honest and open with your broker, guaranteeing that all relevant facts are revealed to help secure the most suitable deal, and avoiding costly delay in applications being submitted to the wrong companies.

How long will I be committed to my mortgage and are there redemption penalties if I wish to change? AKP recommends regular review of all mortgages, constantly looking for the best financial deals for clients. As a result, many AKP mortgage recommendations involve only minimal commitment to a specific lender, potentially, allowing a client to change lender comparatively frequently, without penalty.

What will happen to interest rates? It is part of AKP's business to be as familiar as possible with world markets, trends and interest rates, ensuring that clients receive up to date appropriate advice for all individual circumstances.

How experienced is AKP? The AKP team has many years involvement in the mortgage world, with knowledge of best products available from all UK lenders. AKP will be able to recommend a mortgage product based on an individuals unique circumstances and aspirations.

How much can I borrow? This largely depends on two factors, your income and the size of your deposit as a percentage of purchase price. Mortgage lenders normally work on multiples of income between: . 3.25 to 3.50 x main income for a single applicant,
. 3.25 to 3.50 x main income plus 1 x the second income,
. 2.5 to 2.75 x joint income.

These multiplies can be reviewed dependent on the size of a client's deposit, as the larger the deposit, the less risk is incurred by a lender. However, AKP's long established relationships with underwriters, can enable AKP to negotiate higher multiples if required.

Does it make a difference if I am self employed? Having access to mortgage schemes where lenders use different ways of proving income means that AKP have become experts in this area, and can help the self employed to maximise their borrowing.

How long will it take to arrange my mortgage? Individual circumstances inevitably effect the time in which a mortgage can be arranged. AKP, however, recognise that in some situations, speed is imperative, and will always 'pull out all stops' to help a client meet deadlines.

What if I am unhappy with the service, or wish to complain? In the unlikely event that you are unhappy with the service that you have received from AKP or wish to make a complaint, please write in the first instance to Adrian Knott, Managing Director at the head office. We will always try to resolve your complaint quickly and to a satisfactory conclusion for you. If however, you are still not happy with the investigation and response to your complaint you are able to take the matter further with the Financial Services Compensation Scheme: 7th floor Lloyds Chambers, Portsoken Street, London E1 8BN.
(Their website gives recommendations of how to resolve problematic issues.)