Just so you know, I'm very much still around and willing to contribute my time to the forum just as soon as the forum etiquette issues are resolved.

I'm afraid to say I agree with Foggy - for all the reasons he describes. The only option I can realistically see is re-mortgaging to pay off the IVA at the same time but whether that is possible or not will depend on many other things.

Hi Johnse. Easier said than done I know but do try not to worry about this too much. Closer to the time you need to look at a simple product switch (you can do this via a mortgage broker if you prefer, or otherwise you can do it yourself directly with your lender - hopefully it will fly 'under the r...

It should be possible for a specialist Mortgage Adviser to give you a good indication as to whether a mortgage could be achieved presuming that the Full and Final has been dealt with but your options will remain fairly limited all the same. Might be worth just focusing on sorting the IVA first anywa...

Definitely talk to your IP - you can't change the facts but at least that way you will be taking control and find out what your options are.

Just bear in mind that a Debt Management Plan will tarnish your credit record in the same was as an IVA, just want to be clear on that. Also just to add that, if you have a 4 year fixed mortgage that will take care of most of the term of the IVA. After that you may be able to get your lender to do a...

I agree with Foggy. It's not possible for all the reasons he describes, besides which it is unlikely that you will find a lender to consider it. My advice would be to focus on dealing with the IVA first and then things will hopefully start to ease. Good luck.

Hi Paul. Realistically your only chance of securing a new fixed rate is by doing a rate switch with your existing lender. With some lenders it's quite straight forward but we have also experienced some lenders asking questions about the IVA and then refusing it. As your current lender can obviously ...

Hi Emma. Congratulations on completing your IVA. Don't worry too much about the ratings the credit reference agencies give you - they are only their assessments and lenders all have their own assessment methods. All else being equal there's certainly a very good chance of you obtaining a really comp...

It's ordinarily the best time when it comes off your credit file. It can often be done before that but deals are not normally as competitive.

Hi Gemma. The simple answer to the question is that they will ask you.

Hi. Once your IVA is settled there may be limited options for you but the real 'sweet spot' is once the IVA disappears from your credit file. Whilst it still limits things for you to an extent, this opens up more competitive options for you.

Hi Steve. Equity Release mortgage are really a separate area of specialism and, like Ryan, we do not specialize in this area. It does look as though your options are fairly limited though. I presume down-sizing would not ease the situation (financially at least) or be a viable option?

This issue has been debated on the forum before and the consensus of opinion in generally that it's always better to be honest and up-front, rather than be constantly looking over your shoulder even if you are successful. Ultimately it is at the firm's discretion rather than the regulator and they w...

Just also be aware that many mortgage lenders normally require mortgage applications in the name of married applicants to be made jointly. With your present IVA that may cause an issue. This should be checked before she makes an application to avoid unnecessary credit searches being recorded on her ...