A couple who have devoted a decade to foster caring have finally landed a mortgage after suffering numerous rejections because lenders were concerned about their age and unconventional income.
Chris (69) and Debbie Girdler (55) from Devon will provide hope to many would-be homeowners who fear they may not get on the property ladder or remortgage because their circumstances are not in line with many lenders’ rigid criteria.
The couple began foster caring in 2008 following a stint hosting foreign students at their nine-bedroom Edwardian home in Plymouth.
Over the past ten years they have fostered 10 children and young people and currently look after three teenagers. They also have a 17-year-old son and a nine-year-old adopted son who live at home, while Debbie’s 89-year-old father Ian lives in a garden flat attached to the property.
“Because we were already hosting foreign students, it was suggested to us that we might make for suitable carers,” Chris said.
“Ever since, we’ve found the experience to be incredibly rewarding and have seen first-hand just how foster care can help young people to better themselves.”
Challenges
But problems arose when the Girdlers came to remortgage their property from an interest-only to a repayment mortgage and began researching potential lenders.
As well as raising concerns about Debbie’s foster income, which they viewed as an allowance, they were also put off approving their mortgage because of Chris’s age.
Surprise
Eventually, through their mortgage broker, the couple were put in touch with Earl Shilton Building Society (esbs) and were ‘surprised’ when they found out the lender was willing to consider their case.
Chris said: “From there on, much of the process was overseen by the broker, and on the occasions where we have spoken to esbs, we have found the mortgage team to work very swiftly and thoroughly.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to have secured the mortgage,” Chris adds, “and we would 100% recommend the Society to family and friends.”
Paul Tilley, Chief Executive for esbs, said: “We are pleased to hear that Chris and Debbie have had such a positive mortgage experience with us.
“Their devotion to foster caring is incredibly admirable and it was our pleasure to be able to help them with their circumstance.
“On behalf of everyone here at esbs, we would like to wish them many more happy years to come in their home.”
