New Mortgage questions (travel/affordability)

vouch0r

hi all,

just a few questions as im considering going for a mortgage very soon..

1. I am planning on the idea of saving money and travelling for 6 month to a year in maybe 4-5 years.. i understand nationwide for example like to charge +1% as a fee... if i rent to a friend i guess i don't have to tell them but i guess this would affect insurance if my house burned down.. can i get landlord insurance if i rent to a friend? is getting a mortgage a good idea if i plan to not live there for 6 months? i have family that can manage the running or a estate agent while im away to make it easier..

2. how much money after bills/mortgage is acceptable for affordability checks? im looking at 1-200 spare per month if i pay all by myself.

my girlfriend is also moving in with me and paying half the bills but not on the mortgage deed (sole mortgage) , obviously if it turns sour its best to keep everything in my name plus im the one putting the deposit down lol.

im planning on going for a 2 yr fix of around 0.99-1.4% and remortgaging when that expires.
i will have a 60-70k deposit on a £165k~ property so should be able to get a good deal as im under the 70% ltv.

what are your thoughts ?