The UK mortgage market is evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for homeowners and potential buyers.
Whilst interest rates continued to rise this year for much of this year, it's worth noting that the Bank of England believes inflation – which fell more than many expected - will continue to drop throughout the remainder of 2023, which could potentially mark the end of rising rates.
Opportunities in the Current Market
Lower Rates in Q4: Despite continued increases throughout the first 9 months of 2023, the average fixed-term mortgage rates for homebuyers have recently seen a gradual downward trend.
Our weekly headline mortgage rates show the most up-to-date industry figures.
Competitive Deals: Competitive mortgage deals are available, catering to borrowers with smaller deposits or lower credit scores. Many lenders accept deposits as low as 5%. Specialist lenders also serve those with poor credit history.
Less Competition: Whilst rates are on a downward trend, seize the opportunity to buy your next home whilst competition is less fierce, offering more opportunity to negotiate on purchase price.
Challenges in the Current Market
Rising Interest Rates: The Bank of England has raised interest rates multiple times recently to combat inflation. As a result, the cost of borrowing continued to rise throughout much of 2023, affecting mortgage affordability.
Tighter Lending Criteria: Lenders have become more stringent in their lending criteria due to the cost-of-living crisis. To secure a mortgage, borrowers may need a larger deposit and a better credit score.
Cost of Living Pressures: Escalating expenses, including food and energy costs, have seen a strain on many household budgets. According to the Resolution Foundation’s annual Living Standards Outlook for 2023, the cost-of-living crisis should ease in 2024.
In the meantime, this financial pressure may make it more challenging for some to meet monthly mortgage repayments.
Tips for Homeowners and Potential Buyers
Expert Advice: Consult a trusted mortgage advisor for personalised guidance and assistance in finding the best mortgage solution for your needs. They will compare mortgage deals from different lenders to ensure you get the most competitive terms.
Prepare for Higher Rates: Interest rates may continue rising. Be prepared for potentially higher monthly payments by budgeting accordingly.
Budget Carefully: Before committing to a mortgage, carefully assess your budget and financial situation to ensure you can comfortably manage the repayments.
Why Use an Independent Mortgage Broker
Here’s just a few of the practical advantages and key reasons why choosing an independent mortgage broker such as Prestige Private Finance can be a smart move for your financial goals.
Access to the Best Deals: Partnering with
an independent mortgage broker such as Prestige Private Finance gives you access to exclusive mortgage options from various lenders.
This ensures that you are offered the most competitive rates and terms tailored to your specific financial needs.
Personalised Guidance: Prestige Private Finance provide tailored guidance, considering your unique financial situation and goals. They serve as your trusted advisors, helping you navigate the intricate mortgage landscape with expert insights, prioritising your financial wellbeing.
Time and Inconvenience Savings: Working with an independent mortgage broker streamlines the process, saving you valuable time and eliminating the hassle of dealing with multiple lenders. They will handle paperwork, negotiations, and the entire application process on your behalf, simplifying your journey to homeownership.
Conclusion
The UK mortgage market is evolving, but with expert guidance from an independent mortgage broker like Prestige Private Finance, homeowners and potential buyers can still achieve their financial goals, without compromising financial wellbeing.
Whether you're considering buying or selling a home or nearing the end of your current mortgage deal, reaching out to an advisor at Prestige Private Finance is the smart choice to benefit from their expertise and personalised service. They will help you make well-informed financial decisions tailored to your unique circumstances.