Mortgage for N. Ireland Property

A friend of mine is looking to purchase a property in Northern Ireland. However, he is from the Republic; working and living here. He is looking for a £40,000, 50% LTV mortgage. He does have a tiny existing mortgage, but no other borrowings, so affordability is no issue.

Which lenders would be able to provide such a mortgage? Would he have to apply down here, or would it make more sense to open a bank account in the North and apply through a Northern-based lender?

Why has this topic been moved?

This topic is about securing a mortgage for a property that won't even be an investment.