Applying for a mortgage is a slightly nerve racking exercise at the best of times. Getting all of your paperwork together, will the bank reject your application etc.

However, add on the financial uncertainty surrounding a divorce and this makes the process even more difficult.

For example, you may be looking to refinance the family home across to one partner, (and often the one without much income to show the bank).

Or is it purchasing a property as a newly single person, which may be the first time you have made such a purchase for some.

What is absolutely important in each case, is to start researching what you will need to do and this includes talking to a divorce, financial planner as EARLY AS POSSIBLE. (preferably one like myself who is also a mortgage broker)!

Depending on your circumstances, creative ideas and “out of the box” strategies can be drawn up to help you achieve your property purchase or refinance goal.

If left too late in the process, or a simple, “Oh, I’ll just wonder into the bank” approach is taken, it could lead you with very few options.

So, be proactive, just as you will have to be once your divorce has come through. Approach everything step, by step and engage professionals early, (even if you do not end up needing them later).