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Mortgage KFI: All you need to know about mortgage key facts illustrations!
A KFI, that is also known as an ESIS, is a standardised, set of facts around a mortgage that are in a consumer friendly document, to outline the key areas, key costs and other specific information around your specific mortgage deal.
Regulated Mortgage Brokers work under the FCA (financial conduct authority). Under their rules (MCOB 5.5), your mortgage lender or broker must give you a KFI before you submit a formal mortgage application. This generally happens once they have searched and identified a suitable product and gathered your basic information.
A Mortgage KFI has to include the following:
- Details of all parties – Customer, Mortgage Lender, Mortgage Broker
- Mortgage Amount
- Mortgage Term
- Interest Rate(s) – Including APR
- Repayment Method
- Estimated Monthly Repayments and Total Amount Payable
- Arrangement Fees,
- ERC’s (Early Repayment Charges)
- Valuation
- Broker Fees
Then if there are any higher-lending charges or special conditions such as offset features or portability permissions.
Typically, these last between 30-90 days. They should include a “valid until” date and a cooling off period. This allows a timeframe for consideration of the KFI features and terms stated.
We of course don’t know the answer. However, we can very quickly check. You can speak to any independent mortgage broker to review any mortgage offer and see whether or not you have accessed the best mortgage rate or the right mortgage for your circumstances.
we had a key fact illustration, whilst it was invaluable, thank goodness we checked it and got independent advice. As we got a better deal.
A key facts illustration, does NOT LOCK in the mortgage or guarantee anything. It simply shows the deal available at the time of issue, but doesn’t tie you in to anything. Be aware, rates and fees can change between your KFI date and your formal offer.
An AIP (or also known as a mortgage in principle/decision in principle) illustrates how much a mortgage lender is willing to lend you – generally based on a soft credit check.
A KFI details the specific terms of a mortgage product recommendation. A KFI details the terms of a specific mortgage product recommendation. If you want details, terms and rates etc – then you need a Key Facts Illustration.
Both can provide you with a KFI. If you apply for a mortgage via a mortgage advisor (90% of mortgages are accessed via a mortgage broker) then they will generally generate the KFI for you. If you are getting a mortgage with a lender directly, they’ll issue their own KFI. Either way, they should be one and the same in content.
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Receiving your Mortgage Key Facts Illustration (KFI) can feel amazing and scary at the same time. Once you look at what it is outlining, and the actual cost of a mortgage – it feels like a big step. It is imperative, you have taken independent advice before you sign a mortgage deal.
Outlining rates, fees and repayment plans are very important so you can more confidently plan your next move and ensure your finances are sustainable and affordable. Also, you want to be confident your Mortgage KFI is giving you the best rate!
However, a key fact illustration while invaluable, is only a reflection of one lender’s offer at a single point in time. To truly make the most of your Mortgage KFI, you deserve a second pair of eyes and independent advice, and a thorough scan of the mortgage market.
Why Reviewing Your Mortgage KFI Matters
Every KFI Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle – Your KFI lays out a clear picture of your current deal: interest rate, APRC, term, arrangement fees and any early-repayment charges. Yet, the UK market boasts thousands of mortgages, each tailored to different borrower needs. By comparing beyond your initial KFI, you might uncover:
- Lower rates or cashback incentives
- More flexible repayment or overpayment terms
- Reduced fees or waived valuation costs
- Independent expertise helps you keep control
- An independent mortgage broker acts solely in your best interests.
At The Mortgage Broker, we offer a KFI Checking Service free of charge.
- Search & Compare Rates
- Interpret the fine print in your KFI
- Search over 130+ Lenders
- Access Exclusive Rates
Peace of Mind in Uncertain Times
Unpredictability in the market makes it so hard to know what is right. Shifting Bank of England base rates and quickly evolving lender criteria can make anyone lose sleep over such large borrowings. The Mortgage Broker are qualified mortgage advisers, who are specialists in knowing the market, with key insights into our trusted mortgage lender partners. We can monitor deals and mortgage rates and adviser
How We Enhance Your Mortgage KFI Review
Comprehensive Market Scan
We don’t stop at the big-name high street banks. From challenger banks to specialist lenders, we’ll collate every deal that suits your credit profile and long-term plans.
Tailored Product Matching
Your situation is unique—whether you’re self-employed, a first-time buyer, or looking for a buy-to-let mortgage. We align each option to your personal goals, not the other way around.
Transparent Fee Comparison
Arrangement fees, booking fees, broker charges: these can quickly add up. We lay out all costs side by side so you know exactly what you’ll pay over the life of your mortgage.
Ongoing Support & Reminders
Mortgage markets evolve. As your dedicated broker, we’ll alert you when your initial rate period ends or if a better deal becomes available, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to save.
Next Steps: Take Control of Your Mortgage KFI
Gather Your KFI: Have your document ready—your current rate, APRC, fees and term are the starting point.
Book a No-Obligation Review: We’ll walk through every line of your KFI, explain what it means for you, and identify hidden opportunities.
Compare & Decide: With a full suite of market options in front of you, feel confident choosing the mortgage that best balances rate, flexibility and cost.
Your Mortgage KFI should be a stepping-stone to the best possible deal—not the final word. Partner with an independent mortgage broker today to review, compare and secure a rate that puts more money back in your pocket—now and for years to come.
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Contact us for your free, no-strings-attached assessment and discover how much you could save.
Key Facts Illustration (KFI)
Key Facts Illustration (KFI)
A Key Facts Illustration (KFI) is a document that provides you with lots of key mortgage information, it may also be referred to as a European Standardised Information Sheet (ESIS). The document format was developed to help you compare the costs and features of several mortgages provided by one or more lenders. With the report in hand, you’ll be able to compare different home loans much more easily.
When you are looking for a suitable mortgage, it is advisable to source quotations from several places. Each bank or building society you approach is required to provide you with a KFI document for each mortgage product you want to know more about.
Some people use the services of a financial adviser who can search larger portions of the market on their behalf. In this case, the financial adviser must provide you with a document for each product. Typical items featured in the KFI should include any charges applicable for arranging that mortgage or service. It should also include information on whose products are included and whether they come from the entire mortgage market or only from one provider. Some advisers can only recommend from a limited portion of the market, for instance, and this will be highlighted on the report. The information is also written in an easy to understand format, rather than using complex phrasing.
The idea is that by receiving one or more KFI documents on a range of mortgages, you can more easily compare one with another. It is easy to become confused by differing interest rates, charges, and other features of a home loan. The KFI aims to dispel any confusion and to make it easier for you to find the best option that fits your circumstances.
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