Redbike,
Hi, ive just noticed this thread.
To answer your very first question, yes, you can get a mortgage that low. I've not done one that low before, but close. And when I say that, its because I am a independant mortgage broker.
You should also try Woolwich, Nationwide Building Society, Abbey, Cheltenham & Gloucester & Halifax. You can also have your mortgage over what term you wish, within the lenders criteria, not just 25 years!
HSBC, are a pain in the ass and very very slow! Albeit they do often have good rates, its coupled with poor customer service and never ending and constant changing criteria. And they will want everything and the kitchen sink, plus the plug, and water!
I cant understand why shared ownership has been brought up! So ignore it please.
Estate Agents can be a pain to deal with and always take what they say with a pinch of salt. They are not your friend! If you want to put an offer in, get them to phone this to the vendor and dont take no for an answer. There's rules, guildlines and best standard practices they have to adear to, like I do, but they will lie, thats a fact!
Am sorry, but you cant haggle on what interest rates a lender is offering, and certainly not at your level of borrowing. Their product range is just that, nothing nice hiding in the background or under a closet somewhere! You can haggle on a purchase price however.
If you need any help, PM me! However I am away from this evening till tuesday, so wont be able to get back to you till then.
One word of note however, the more lenders that do credit scores on you, by either an applicaiton or and by an agreement in principle like, the more it can affect your credit score. Only agree to have your credit scored if you are happy to proceed with everything!
I hope this helps and good luck!
David