Secured Loans

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Borrow from £10,000 to £500,000 secured against your property. Your dedicated advisor searches across lenders to find a deal that fits your circumstances.

  • Borrow £10,000 to £500,000
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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.

What is a secured loan and how does it work?

A secured loan lets you borrow money using your home as security. Because the lender has your property as collateral, you can typically borrow larger amounts (£10,000 to £500,000) at lower interest rates than unsecured personal loans, with repayment terms stretching up to 25 years.

The loan sits as a second charge on your property, behind your existing mortgage. You repay the loan in fixed monthly instalments over the agreed term. If you fall behind on repayments, the lender can apply to repossess your home to recover the debt.

Secured loans are commonly used for debt consolidation, home improvements, and large purchases. Eligibility depends on the equity in your property, your income, credit history, and existing commitments. Most lenders require you to own your home with a mortgage or own it outright, and will carry out a property valuation before approving the loan.

Sources: MoneyHelper.org.uk, Citizens Advice, Bank of England

How do secured loans work?

Secured loans work by using your property as collateral for the borrowing. This gives the lender security, which is why secured loans typically offer larger amounts and longer repayment terms than unsecured alternatives. Here is how the process works from start to finish.

  1. Check your eligibility: Answer a few questions about your property, income, and what you need the loan for. This initial check does not affect your credit score.
  2. Get matched with deals: Your secured loan advisor searches across a range of lenders to find deals that fit your circumstances, equity position, and borrowing needs.
  3. Compare your options: Review the deals your advisor has found, including the total cost of borrowing, monthly repayments, and any fees involved.
  4. Property valuation: The lender arranges a valuation of your property to confirm the equity available. This usually costs between £150 and £600.
  5. Legal checks and completion: A solicitor handles the legal work to register the second charge on your property. Once complete, the funds are released to your bank account.

The whole process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, though complex cases may take longer. Your advisor manages each step and keeps you updated throughout.

What can you use a secured loan for?

Secured loans are flexible borrowing. You can use the funds for almost any purpose, though some are more common than others. The right option depends on how much you need, how quickly you need it, and your financial situation.

Debt consolidation

One of the most popular uses for a secured loan is consolidating existing debts into a single monthly payment. If you have multiple credit cards, store cards, or personal loans, rolling them into one secured loan can simplify your finances and potentially reduce your total monthly outgoings. Bear in mind that extending the repayment term means you could pay more interest overall, even if the monthly payment is lower.

Home improvements and renovations

A secured loan can fund significant home improvement projects that add value to your property. Common projects include kitchen renovations, bathroom refurbishments, extensions, and loft conversions. Because you are investing back into the asset that secures the loan, this can be a practical way to fund larger projects.

Large purchases

If you need to borrow a substantial amount for a wedding, car, or other major expense, a secured loan lets you access larger sums than a personal loan typically allows. You can borrow up to £500,000 depending on your equity.

Paying off car finance

Some homeowners use a secured loan to pay off expensive car finance agreements, replacing a higher-rate hire purchase or PCP deal with a lower-rate secured loan. However, you are converting unsecured debt into debt secured against your home, so consider this carefully.

Business purposes

While dedicated business loans exist, some self-employed borrowers use a secured loan against their residential property to fund business investment. Speak to a secured loan advisor for self-employed borrowers to understand your options.

What types of secured loans are there?

Secured loans come in several forms, each suited to different situations. The type you choose affects how much you can borrow, the rates available, and how the loan is structured.

TypeHow it worksBest forTypical amount
Homeowner loanA standard secured loan using your property as collateral. Fixed monthly repayments over 1 to 25 years.General borrowing, home improvements, large purchases£10,000 to £500,000
Second charge mortgageA second mortgage on your property, sitting behind your existing first charge. Often used for larger amounts.Borrowing £25,000+ without remortgaging£25,000 to £500,000
Debt consolidation loanA secured loan specifically structured to pay off existing debts and combine them into one monthly payment.Multiple debts, credit card balances, store cards£10,000 to £250,000
Long-term secured loanExtended repayment terms (15 to 25 years) for lower monthly payments. More interest paid overall.Maximising affordability on larger amounts£25,000 to £500,000

Not sure which type suits you? A secured loan advisor can assess your situation and recommend the right product. You can also compare options directly on our lender comparison table.

Find out how much you could borrow

Answer a few quick questions and your advisor will search across lenders for you.

What fees do secured loans charge?

Secured loans involve several fees beyond the interest rate. Understanding the full cost helps you compare deals accurately and avoid surprises. Your advisor will explain all fees upfront before you commit to anything.

FeeWhat it coversWho pays
Arrangement feeThe lender's charge for setting up the loan. Can sometimes be added to the loan balance.You (to lender)
Valuation feeA professional survey to confirm your property value and the equity available.You (to surveyor)
Legal feesA solicitor registers the second charge on your property with the Land Registry.You (to solicitor)
Broker feeIf applicable, a fee for the advisor who arranged the loan. Not all brokers charge this.You (to broker)
Early repayment chargeA penalty for paying off the loan before the agreed term ends. Not all loans have this.You (to lender)

Some lenders offer fee-free products where the arrangement and valuation costs are absorbed into the interest rate. Ask your advisor to compare the total cost of borrowing, including all fees, across different deals. For a full breakdown, read our guide to secured loan fees and charges.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it.

Lawrence Howlett

The biggest mistake I see is people comparing secured loans on the monthly payment alone. A loan with a lower monthly payment over 20 years will almost always cost more in total than a higher payment over 10 years. Always ask your advisor to show you the total amount repayable, not just the headline figure.

Lawrence Howlett,Founder of Money Saving Advisors

How much can you borrow with a secured loan?

How much you can borrow with a secured loan depends on several factors. Lenders assess each application individually, but these are the main things they consider.

  • Property equity: The difference between your home's current market value and the amount you still owe on your mortgage. More equity means you can borrow more. Most lenders cap at a combined loan-to-value (LTV) ratio.
  • Income and affordability: Lenders check your income against your outgoings to confirm you can comfortably afford the repayments. They will look at your salary, any other income, and your regular commitments.
  • Credit history: Your credit score affects both how much you can borrow and the rates available to you. Some lenders cater specifically to borrowers with bad credit or missed payments.
  • Loan purpose: Some lenders restrict what the funds can be used for. Debt consolidation and home improvements are widely accepted; business use may be more limited.
  • Existing commitments: Any existing loans, credit cards, or other financial obligations reduce the amount a lender will offer you.

Most secured loans range from £10,000 to £500,000, with typical terms of 3 to 25 years. To see what you might qualify for, try our secured loan calculator or read our guide on how much you can borrow.

Secured Loans

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Answer a few quick questions and your advisor will compare secured loan deals from a wide range of lenders.

App mockup

5 tips for getting a better secured loan deal

A secured loan is a significant financial commitment. These practical steps can help you find a deal that works for your situation and avoid common pitfalls.

  1. Check your credit report first: Before applying, review your credit file with Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. Correct any errors and pay down small balances if possible. Even minor improvements to your credit score can unlock better rates.
  2. Compare the total cost, not just the rate: Two loans with the same interest rate can cost very different amounts if one has higher fees or a longer term. Ask your advisor to show you the total amount repayable for each deal, including all fees.
  3. Borrow only what you need: It can be tempting to borrow a round number or add a buffer, but every extra pound incurs interest over the full term. Calculate exactly what you need and stick to it.
  4. Consider the term length carefully: A longer term means lower monthly payments but significantly more interest over the life of the loan. Use our secured loan calculator to compare different term lengths side by side.
  5. Use a specialist advisor: Secured loan products vary widely between lenders. An advisor who compares deals from a range of lenders can often find options you would not find on your own, particularly if you have adverse credit or are self-employed.

Step by step

How to apply for a secured loan

1

Tell us about your situation

Complete a short online form or call 01302 591302. We ask about your property, income, and what you need the loan for. This does not affect your credit score.

2

Your advisor compares deals

A dedicated secured loan advisor searches across a range of lenders to find deals that match your circumstances, equity position, and borrowing needs.

3

Review your options

Your advisor presents the best deals they have found, explaining the interest rate, fees, monthly cost, and total amount repayable for each one.

4

Valuation and legal checks

Once you choose a deal, the lender arranges a property valuation and a solicitor handles the legal work to register the second charge on your property.

5

Receive your funds

After completion, the loan funds are transferred directly to your bank account. The whole process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from application.

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Secured vs unsecured loans

FeatureSecured loanPersonal loan
Larger borrowing amounts
Lower interest rates
Longer repayment terms
No collateral needed
Faster to arrange
Less paperwork

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about secured loans

A secured loan can be a good option if you need to borrow a large amount, have equity in your property, and can comfortably afford the repayments. However, your home is at risk if you fall behind on payments. Consider whether a personal loan, remortgage, or other option might suit your situation better. Speak to an advisor to compare your options.

Most lenders offer secured loans from £10,000 to £500,000. The exact amount depends on your property equity, income, credit history, and existing financial commitments. Use our secured loan calculator to get an estimate based on your circumstances.

Yes. Some lenders specialise in secured loans for people with adverse credit, including CCJs, defaults, and missed payments. Having equity in your property can offset a lower credit score, though you may face higher interest rates. An advisor can search lenders who accept your credit profile.

A secured loan adds a second charge behind your existing mortgage. A remortgage replaces your current mortgage entirely with a new, larger one. Remortgaging may offer lower rates but can trigger early repayment charges on your current deal. Read our full comparison in our guide to secured loan vs remortgage.

From application to receiving funds, a secured loan typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. This includes the property valuation, legal checks, and registration of the second charge. Complex cases or higher amounts may take longer.

If you fall behind on repayments, the lender can ultimately apply to repossess your home to recover the debt. Before this happens, most lenders will work with you to find a solution, such as a temporary payment reduction. Contact MoneyHelper (0800 138 7777) for independent advice if you are struggling.

Most secured loans allow early repayment, but some charge an early repayment fee. The amount varies by lender and how far into the term you are. Ask your advisor about early repayment terms before committing to a deal. Read our guide on paying off a loan early for more detail.

They are very similar. A second charge mortgage is a type of secured loan that sits behind your existing mortgage. The terms are often used interchangeably, though some lenders distinguish between them based on the loan amount or term length.

Applying for a secured loan involves a hard credit search, which temporarily affects your score. Once approved, making repayments on time can improve your credit rating over time. Missing payments will negatively affect your score and remain on your credit file for six years.

A secured loan uses your property as collateral, allowing you to borrow larger amounts at lower rates over longer terms. An unsecured personal loan does not require collateral but typically limits borrowing to £25,000 with shorter repayment periods. Read our full comparison of secured vs unsecured loans.

Yes. Most lenders accept self-employed applicants, though they typically require at least two years of accounts or tax returns. Some specialist lenders are more flexible with documentation requirements. An advisor experienced with self-employed borrowers can help you find suitable options.

Common fees include an arrangement fee from the lender, a property valuation fee, legal fees for registering the second charge, and potentially a broker fee. Some lenders offer fee-free products. Always compare the total cost of borrowing, including all fees, not just the interest rate.

Equity is the difference between your property value and your outstanding mortgage balance. Most lenders require a minimum amount of equity and cap the combined loan-to-value ratio. Try our LTV calculator or speak to an advisor to find out how much equity you have available.

A broker or advisor who searches across a range of lenders can often find deals you would not find going direct, particularly for larger amounts or complex circumstances. They handle the paperwork and negotiate with lenders on your behalf, saving you time and potentially money.

What our clients say

Reviews from real customers

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Had a really good experience regarding arranging a secured loan. They introduced me to a great advisor. Thanks for the help.

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"Like having a business development team that understands our ICP"

The filtering is what sold us. We only want high-value remortgage and purchase cases above £200k. MSA Pro delivers exactly that—no sub-£100k enquiries eating up our time. It's like having a business development team that actually understands our ICP.

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"Closing £2.3M in AUM per month from platform leads alone"

After 15 years relying on word-of-mouth, we needed a scalable way to grow. MSA Pro's pension and investment leads are genuinely high-intent. We're now closing £2.3M in AUM per month from platform leads alone, with an ROAS that makes every other marketing channel look expensive.

5/5
Principal Advisor, Legacy Financial Planning

"Highly recommnded"

The representative I spoke with was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain everything clearly. What I particularly appreciated was that I never felt pressured into buying anything. Instead, I was presented with a range of options and given the information I needed to make an informed decision.

5/5
Holly Elmhirst

"Helped us make an informed decision"

We had everything explained to us clearly and in great detail and we also had excellent guidance and advice we are so happy with the service we received and we now have peace of mind about our future so glad we chose legacy wills and I would highly recommend them.

5/5
Paula Smith

"Clear, Thorough and Empathetic"

We had a positive experience from beginning to end. Everything was explained in great detail all through the will making and power of attorney process. Suggestions were made if we were unsure. All in all we are tremendously pleased with our choice of company to help us in these matters.

5/5
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"Very helpful advice"

Shortly after I spoke with Anna, she was also very helpful and made it effortless and a nice experience.

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"No stress consolidation loan"

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Had a really good experience regarding arranging a secured loan. They introduced me to a great advisor. Thanks for the help.

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Had a really good experience regarding arranging a secured loan. They introduced me to a great advisor. Thanks for the help.

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"Clear, Thorough and Empathetic"

Shortly after I spoke with Anna, she was also very helpful and made it effortless and a nice experience.

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These guys were so helpful. Gave me great advice and helped me secure a loan at a great rate for my garage conversion. Would definitely recommend to friends and family.

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"Highly recommnded"

From when we were first contacted by Geoff Riley he guided us through the whole process efficiently and effectively, answering all our questions clearly and honestly.

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"Helped us make an informed decision"

We were looking into Equity release for some time and couldn't decide if it was for us until Patrick Keogh took the time to explain how it worked in terms that we could understand. No pushy selling... thank you Patrick!

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"Clear, Thorough and Empathetic"

Our advisor, Dean Harrison, was extremely helpful at all stages of the process. No hard push, making all facts and figures clear and open to questions to ensure clarity of messaging throughout..

5/5
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"Very helpful advice"

Shortly after I spoke with Anna, she was also very helpful and made it effortless and a nice experience. Plus I got the best price - always a winner!

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"Great team of advisors"

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"Helped us make an informed decision"

Had a really good experience regarding arranging a secured loan. They introduced me to a great advisor. Thanks for the help.

5/5
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"Clear, Thorough and Empathetic"

Shortly after I spoke with Anna, she was also very helpful and made it effortless and a nice experience.

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Tyler Elsworthy

This article was written by:

Lawrence Howlett
Lawrence Howlett

Founder of Money Saving Advisors

Lawrence Howlett brings a results-driven mindset to his writing, shaped by over a decade of experience across finance, legal, and energy sectors. As the founder of Moneysavingadvisors, he’s built a reputation for turning complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights for consumers. His writing stands out for its clarity, structure, and focus on delivering value.

Article last updated 21 July 2026

Reviewed by Nick McDonald on 21 July 2026

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