What exactly is the guarantor responsible for?
The guarantor is legally responsible for the guaranteed portion of the loan if you can't meet your repayments. This is real financial liability, not a formality.
How do I release the guarantor from my loan?
Typically through refinancing once you've built enough equity in the property - either through value growth or by paying down the loan. We plan this from the start so there's a clear timeline.
Does the guarantor need to have a mortgage-free property?
Not necessarily. Many lenders accept a guarantee from a property with an existing mortgage, as long as there's enough equity to cover the guarantee amount.
Can a friend be a guarantor?
Most lenders only accept family members as guarantors, typically parents. We'll check the specific lender policy for your situation.