By now you’re probably familiar with our tips, tricks and guides on how to get a mortgage. So, it’s probably no surprise that this is, indeed, an article containing a few tips and tricks. What may be a surprise, however, is that this has nothing to do with applying for a mortgage. Or mortgages full stop.
Have you heard of HM Land Registry’s Property Alert Service? If not, then you have something in common with over 70% of the UK’s homeowning population.
Fraud tends to be carried out in many deceptive and cunning ways. So deceptive and cunning, in fact, that you’d be forgiven for having no idea it was even happening to you. When it comes to property fraud, there are a number of red flags that might alert you to the fact that something is amiss. And that’s where the Property Alert Service comes in, by making you aware of any official searches and applications received against your property that haven’t been authorised by you.
Simply put, the UK’s Property Alert Service exists to protect homeowners from fraud. Not only that, but it’s FREE!
Out of 29 million homes in the UK, only a quarter are registered with the scheme despite its benefits and the fact that it’s so easy to set up. You can even set up alerts on up to 10 properties. Whether that includes your portfolio of buy to let properties or the properties of family members (particularly those who might be vulnerable) who you’re keeping an eye out for, this service can help you stay two steps ahead of fraudsters.
Those more exposed to property fraud include: property owners whose identity has been stolen; landlords who let their property; property owners that now live overseas; a property owner whose property is currently vacant; those who own an unencumbered property; those whose property isn’t registered with HM Land Registry.
Do any of those descriptions match you? If so, then all you need to do is click here to set up an account. Then, if you are alerted to any suspicious activity, you’ll receive an email with instructions on what to do if you don’t recognise or feel comfortable with what’s been happening without your consent or knowledge.
See, just because we’re a Guildford mortgage broker doesn’t mean we have to be talking about the benefits of using a mortgage broker. Sometimes it’s just nice to share. It is Christmas, after all.
We look forward to helping you in what we all hope will be a Happy New Year.
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