My wife and I are looking to purchase our first property in Edinburgh. We contacted HSBC for a mortgage and this was accepted in principle. They then informed us we could go ahead and make offers, which we did (on a fixed price property).
Being a fixed price property, our solicitor's offer was immediately accepted. The survey has been completed. the ONLY thing we have been waiting on is HSBC.
Then, a week ago they just turned around and said we were being declined due to my wife's visa status!
She has been in the country since 2002. She obtained her Masters degree at Durham University in 2003. We met in 2003 and married in April 2005. Since May last year, she has been in the country on a marriage visa. Next year she applies for indefinite leave to remain and there are no grounds whatsoever on which this could be refused.
But HSBC refuse to accept our mortgage until they have a letter from the Home Office stating that she will be definitely be staying here for the next 5 years, which of course they would never do! Particularly ironic coming from the HONG KONG SHANGHAI Bank!
I have complained to their managers all of whom seem to agree with me, but they have yet to change their minds. I have even been round the nearest branch complaining and we were assured something would be sorted out, but it hasn't.
I simply can't believe this sort of decision could be made. This absolutely stinks of facial discrimination. Has anyone else had the same sort of experience as this?
Does anyone know what we can do? Can you recommend a mortgage provider who might be a little less ridiculous?
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