Secured Loan FAQ

Straightforward answers to common questions
Thinking about applying for a secured loan but not sure what to expect? You are not alone. We speak to homeowners and property investors every day who want to understand how secured loans work and what is required to get approved.
Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about secured loan lending, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
A secured loan is a type of borrowing that is backed by an asset, usually your home. The lender uses your property as security, which reduces their risk and allows you to borrow larger amounts, often at lower interest rates than unsecured options.
Secured loans are commonly used for:
- Home improvements
- Debt consolidation
- Business investment
- Large personal purchases
- Property-related expenses
They can be arranged alongside your existing mortgage, often as a second charge.
To be eligible for a secured loan, you usually need to meet the following criteria:
- Be a homeowner with equity in your property
- Be aged 21 or over
- Have a stable income from employment, self-employment, or pension
- Pass an affordability check to show you can repay the loan
- Use the funds for an acceptable purpose, such as home improvements or debt consolidation
Some lenders will also consider applicants with adverse credit, depending on the overall strength of the application and the available equity.
Secured loans are generally easier to get approved for than unsecured loans, especially if you have a strong equity position and a clear repayment plan.
Approval depends on:
- Your credit history
- The amount of equity in your property
- Your income and affordability
- The loan size and term
- The purpose of the loan
Even if your credit is less than perfect, there are lenders who specialise in flexible underwriting. We can assess your circumstances and match you with lenders who are more likely to say yes.
The amount you can borrow will depend on:
- Your property's value and current mortgage balance
- Your income and monthly outgoings
- The lender’s maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
- Your credit profile and repayment history
Most lenders allow borrowing from £10,000 to over £500,000, with some going into the millions for high-net-worth clients or landlords. A typical range is 70 to 85 percent of your property's value, minus any existing mortgage.
We will calculate your borrowing capacity and provide a clear breakdown of repayments and total costs.
The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of your case and how quickly documents are provided. In general:
- A basic secured loan can be completed within 5 to 10 working days.
- More complex applications may take 2 to 3 weeks.
- Urgent cases may be fast-tracked if required.
We will handle the entire process for you, including valuations, lender liaison, and legal paperwork. Our goal is always to keep things moving quickly and efficiently.
Want to know more about secured or second charge loans?
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If you need to raise capital and want flexible, cost-effective borrowing, a second charge secured loan may be the right fit. Speak to our expert team or apply now using our online secured loans platform.
You can apply for an online secured loan using our secure form or speak directly with one of our advisers for a more personalised recommendation.
Still unsure about secured lending?
Whether you are ready to apply or just want to explore your options, our team is here to help. Speak to a specialist today for clear advice, tailored recommendations, and expert support.