The UK mortgage market is experiencing significant shifts as lenders adjust their offerings and market conditions evolve. Santander has announced reductions in mortgage rates across its range, while Rightmove reports the largest decline in house prices for June in 14 years. These changes are pivotal for borrowers, landlords, and investors navigating the current market.
TL;DR: Santander is cutting mortgage rates and fees, impacting both new and existing customers; meanwhile, house prices have dropped 0.6% in June, the largest decline in 14 years.
What are Santander’s latest mortgage rate changes?
Starting from 18 June, Santander is reducing rates on a variety of mortgage products, including fixed and tracker options for residential and buy-to-let customers. This move includes lowering product fees and reintroducing certain first-time buyer deals. However, first-time buyer products at 85% loan-to-value (LTV) will see some rate increases. Additionally, Santander is launching new home mover products and extending application and completion deadlines by one month, which could provide more flexibility for borrowers.
How are house prices trending in June?
According to Rightmove, average asking prices for newly listed homes have decreased by 0.6% in June, bringing the average price to £376,191. This marks the largest decline for June in 14 years, indicating that sellers are responding to heightened competition and a more price-sensitive buyer market. This trend may affect potential sellers and buyers, as it suggests a cooling in the previously heated housing market.
What impact did the Renters’ Rights Act have on evictions?
Recent research from COHO indicates that nearly 20,000 tenants were evicted in the month leading up to the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, which bans Section 21 “no-fault” evictions. Approximately one in four tenants received eviction notices as landlords anticipated the upcoming changes. This surge in evictions highlights landlords’ concerns regarding managing risks associated with rent arrears and anti-social behaviour without the Section 21 process. The implications of this situation may lead to increased caution among landlords as they navigate tenant management under the new regulations.
What does this mean for the mortgage market and borrowers?
For landlords, the recent spike in evictions before the Renters’ Rights Act suggests a shift in how properties may be managed moving forward. The removal of the no-fault eviction option may lead to a more cautious approach in tenant selection and management. Borrowers, particularly first-time buyers, may benefit from the reduced rates offered by lenders like Santander and Nationwide, which are now providing lower fixed-rate options. With house prices declining, it may also present a more opportune moment for buyers to enter the market. For those interested in exploring the latest offerings, checking the current mortgage rates is advisable.
Frequently asked questions
How will the changes in mortgage rates affect first-time buyers?
The reduction in mortgage rates, particularly from lenders like Santander and Nationwide, may make borrowing more affordable for first-time buyers. However, some first-time buyer products at 85% LTV are seeing rate increases, which could impact those looking to secure a mortgage at higher LTVs.
What should landlords consider following the Renters’ Rights Act?
Landlords need to reassess their tenant management strategies in light of the Renters’ Rights Act. With the ban on no-fault evictions, they may need to focus more on tenant relationships and risk management to mitigate potential issues related to rent arrears and property maintenance.