As five-year fixed-rate mortgage deals are set to expire in 2026, millions of homeowners face a potentially hefty jump in their monthly payments. If you're one of them, knowing when your deal ends is crucial. With interest rates on a rollercoaster ride since late 2021, borrowers can expect to either save hundreds of pounds per month or face higher repayments.
For those whose two-year fixed deals are ending, it's possible to secure an even better rate than the original one they had. This could be a tempting option for those looking to lower their monthly payments. However, for five-year fixers, the situation is less clear-cut, with some borrowers facing higher rates if interest rates rise.
The Bank of England base rate cuts are anticipated this year, which could lead to further reductions in new mortgage deals. Borrowers should weigh up their options carefully and consider whether they want a fixed-rate deal or a base-rate tracker, which moves in line with the official rate.
While some lenders throw in free valuations and legal services when borrowers remortgage, doing your own research is essential. Best-buy tables published by Moneyfacts and MoneySavingExpert can help you compare deals from different lenders. Additionally, mortgage brokers can assist with product recommendations, paperwork, and ensuring a "whole of market" approach to finding the best deal.
Borrowers should reserve a loan now if their current deal ends within six months, as offers are typically valid for this period. If rates have fallen since your original deal was secured, you may be able to switch to a lower rate without losing any product fees.
For those who need to borrow more money for home improvements or other expenses, it's worth asking your lender if they offer further advances. This can sometimes be the cheapest option, but not all lenders will allow it.
For those whose two-year fixed deals are ending, it's possible to secure an even better rate than the original one they had. This could be a tempting option for those looking to lower their monthly payments. However, for five-year fixers, the situation is less clear-cut, with some borrowers facing higher rates if interest rates rise.
The Bank of England base rate cuts are anticipated this year, which could lead to further reductions in new mortgage deals. Borrowers should weigh up their options carefully and consider whether they want a fixed-rate deal or a base-rate tracker, which moves in line with the official rate.
While some lenders throw in free valuations and legal services when borrowers remortgage, doing your own research is essential. Best-buy tables published by Moneyfacts and MoneySavingExpert can help you compare deals from different lenders. Additionally, mortgage brokers can assist with product recommendations, paperwork, and ensuring a "whole of market" approach to finding the best deal.
Borrowers should reserve a loan now if their current deal ends within six months, as offers are typically valid for this period. If rates have fallen since your original deal was secured, you may be able to switch to a lower rate without losing any product fees.
For those who need to borrow more money for home improvements or other expenses, it's worth asking your lender if they offer further advances. This can sometimes be the cheapest option, but not all lenders will allow it.