With house prices rising you might think that your chances of being able to own your own property and getting a mortgage is impossible. 

But don't worry, as mortgage expert and managing director of KIS Finance, Holly Andrews has rounded up some of the best tips. 

From using a mortgage broker to paying of outstanding balances, Holly has all the tips that are worth a look. 

Find out what the best tips on getting a mortgage are.

Harrow Times: Mortgage brokers could be a great help. (Canva)Mortgage brokers could be a great help. (Canva)

Tips to get a mortgage:

1. Be selective with other loan applications

If you have hard credit searches on your credit file it could temporarily bring your credit score down, affecting your chances of the rates you will be offered. 

As it could give lenders the impression that you may have poor financial management, and make them inclined to deny applications over the uncertainty of ability to repay. 

But if it is something that you need to do then one application should not make too much difference depending on the credit and its affordability. 

However, Holly absolutely suggests you should avoid payday loans.

In order to get the best chances, you should avoid credit application in at least three to six months prior to applying for a mortgage. 

2. Use a mortgage broker

An experienced independent broker could really help your chance of getting a  mortgage, especially if you are self-employed or don't have a great credit history. 

Brokers will search the market for you, helping you get the best deal and saving you time, plus they'll be your guide during the process. 

Some brokers don't even have a fee as they're paid by lenders, meaning you save money and get a lot of help. 

3. Check your credit report and fix mistakes

In the six to 12 months ahead of applying, you'll need to check your credit file and make sure it's in the best shape.

You can boost your score by checking you're on the electoral roll and checking for any mistakes that might have been made. 

Check to see there are no credit applications you didn't make and that all credit limits and outstanding balances are accurate. 

If they are incorrect it may look like you're using more of the available credit than you really are. 

4. Pay off outstanding balances

If you have any credit card balances or loans that you can afford to pay off, then you should. 

Fewer loans on your file will look better to the lender and bring your expected monthly outgoings down too. 

Making your mortgage repayments more affordable and you may be offered better rates too.

5. Avoid changing jobs before you apply

Lenders want someone with a secure and stable income, so they may not lend to you if you have recently changed jobs and are in a probationary period. 

Try to avoid changing jobs in the six months before applying but if you have no choice maybe hold off applying for a mortgage until the probationary period is over. 

6. Sever old financial links

If you had past financial links with ex-partners you will need to make sure that all accounts have been closed. 

Whether that be a joint bank account, credit card, loan account that you both have access if you no longer use it together cut all ties and close them. 

By looking at your credit report, you'll be able to see if you have any financial links to a person.