Following the recent decision by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to cut the base rate from 5.25% to 5% (the first reduction seen in over four years), we have seen lots of lenders reducing their rates to remain competitive.
Over the past week we have seen giants such as HSBC, Barclays, NatWest, and Nationwide take part in a “rate war” to become the champion of the lowest rate, as well as smaller lenders also competing to gain their share of new borrowers.
It seems that all lenders are fighting for that number one spot of the lowest rate. Since the first sub 4% product appeared in the market recently, other lenders have followed suit. While these deals won’t be helpful for everyone (they all have specific criteria), it does lead the way for rates for other products to reduce.
Although market commentators say we are unlikely to see substantial reductions in rates until inflation remains steady at 2% (the Bank of England’s target), we at Mortgage Required are pleased to hear about the rate wars!
“It’s great to finally see the move away from products over 5% and welcome the new sub 4% rate! Although we don’t see significant reductions in the immediate future, we are definitely seeing this as a step in the right direction for all mortgage borrowers, and it’s a positive step for getting first time buyers onto the property ladder again” commented Tracy, Director at Mortgage Required.
Mortgage Required are on hand to answer any questions and can help you to find the best option for you. Give them a call on 01628 507477 or email team@mortgagerequired.com.
The chancellor will deliver her second budget this autumn. Due to slow economic growth and high inflation, the government need to manage a £40 billion shortfall in public finances. There have already been reports about changes to taxes including income tax and capital gains tax.
5 days ago
The chancellor has advised that landlords could have another tax to pay this autumn as the Treasury decide whether to extend national insurance contributions to rental income.
According to a report in the Guardian, senior ministers have asked Treasury officials to look into a “proportional” property tax to see how it would work as an alternative to the existing stamp duty land tax on owner-occupied homes.
More than a quarter of UK adults in long-term relationships (26%) have reported that despite living together, they keep their finances separate from one another.
There has been a rise in both rent and mortgage costs over the last three years, with renters seeing a greater increase in their monthly payments than those with a mortgaged property.
28 days ago
The new Delayed Start Mortgage launched by Skipton Building Society allows first time buyers to postpone the first three mortgage payments. This product has been designed to help soften the blow of moving in costs for first time buyers.
4 Aug 2025
Mortgage lenders are starting to recognise their “Green” responsibilities when it comes to the different products they offer.
A recent study by Boon Brokers where 1,000 people who had used an estate agent over the last year were surveyed, showed that a whopping 52% said they were pressured into using the estate agents’ in-house mortgage broker.