Mortgage Advice & Protection
One of Northern Ireland's longest-established mortgage brokers.
For over 30 years, we've helped people across Northern Ireland buy their first home, move up the ladder and remortgage.
What can we help you with?
Pick one and we'll show you how it works.
Established, local, trusted
Over 30 years of mortgage advice in Northern Ireland
For more than 30 years, families across NI have trusted McDowell Financial Services with the biggest financial decisions of their lives. We're still the same local team in Bangor who pick up the phone and see things through.
Mortgages
Whatever stage you're at
Every situation is different, so every type of mortgage gets its own page — written in plain English.
First-time buyer mortgages
Buying your first home? We'll explain every step and find a lender that fits.
Find out more →Moving home mortgages
Moving up or downsizing — we'll look at porting your deal or finding a better one.
Find out more →Remortgage advice
Deal ending soon? Don't roll onto the standard variable rate — let us compare.
Find out more →Co-Ownership mortgages
Buy a share of a home in NI and rent the rest — ideal for smaller deposits.
Find out more →Buy-to-let mortgages
Buying your first rental or growing a portfolio, personally or through a company.
Find out more →Raising money against your home
Borrow more against your home for improvements or other big plans.
Find out more →Equity release
Aged 55+? Unlock money from your home — with advice that includes your family.
Find out more →Protection
Look after the people who matter
A mortgage is usually the biggest commitment a family makes. The right cover means it's still paid if life doesn't go to plan.
Life insurance
Make sure your mortgage is paid off and your family looked after if you die.
Find out more →Critical illness cover
A lump sum if you're diagnosed with a serious illness such as cancer or a heart attack.
Find out more →Income protection
A monthly income if illness or injury stops you working.
Find out more →Business protection
Cover for key people, business partners and employee benefits.
Find out more →How it works
Four simple steps
Free chat
A 15-minute call to understand what you want to do and what you earn.
We search
We compare lenders and explain your options, including the costs, in writing.
We apply
We complete the application and deal with the lender and underwriters.
You complete
We keep you and your solicitor updated right through to completion.
Borrowing calculator
How much could you borrow?
A quick rough guide. We'll give you an accurate figure on a free call.
You could borrow around
giving a property budget of about £177,500
Illustration only — not a mortgage offer. What you can borrow depends on your circumstances, credit history, commitments and each lender's criteria.Reviews
What our clients say
"Mark and Michelle were both fantastic from start to finish."Ashleigh S. · Mortgage
"I was buying my first house. From start to finish. Outstanding work."Matthew D. · First-time buyer
"Lovely staff and made remortgage straight forward."Frances M. · Remortgage
Our team
Real people, based in Bangor
You'll deal with the same adviser from your first call to completion.
Areas we cover
Local advice across Northern Ireland
Based in Helen's Bay, Bangor, we help clients right across NI by phone, video or in person.
Common questions
Do you charge a fee?
We'll always tell you clearly, in writing, whether a fee applies and how much it is before you commit to anything. Your first consultation is free.
How much deposit do I need?
Most lenders ask for at least 5% of the purchase price, and a bigger deposit usually gets you a better rate. Co-Ownership can reduce what you need.
Can you help if my credit history isn't perfect?
Often, yes. Some lenders are more flexible than others — that's where advice helps.
Do I have to come into the office?
No. Most clients speak to us by phone or video, but you're very welcome to call in to our Bangor office.
Get in touch
Book your free call
Tell us a little about what you need and we'll call you back — usually the same working day.
McDowell Financial Services Ltd
Bangor, BT19 1LE