Tag: mortgage completions

Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) has reported a notable increase in first-half revenue and mortgage completions, despite facing a challenging UK housing market characterized by low consumer confidence and fluctuating mortgage pricing. The technology-driven property finance group revealed that mortgage completions surged by 16%, reaching approximately £16.5 billion for the six months ending 30 June 2026, compared to £14.2 billion in the same period last year.

TL;DR: MAB’s revenue rose by 8% to around £160 million, supported by refinancing; this growth indicates resilience in the mortgage market despite economic challenges.

How Did MAB Achieve Growth in a Tough Market?

MAB’s revenue increased by 8% to about £160 million, up from £148.2 million in the first half of 2025. This growth was largely driven by an uptick in property refinancing, contrasting with the previous year’s surge in purchase lending, which was influenced by anticipated changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax relief in 2025. The company’s share of new mortgage lending slightly increased to 8.3%, while its share of product transfers rose to 3.2%.

What Are the Implications for Borrowers and Investors?

The rise in mortgage completions and revenue suggests that borrowers are actively seeking refinancing options, particularly in light of ongoing uncertainty regarding interest rates. MAB noted that mortgage applications were 15% higher year-on-year during the first 19 weeks of 2026, driven by customers looking to refinance early. However, a subsequent decline of 13% in applications over the next seven weeks indicates a potential cooling in consumer activity, leaving year-to-date applications 7% higher than the same period last year.

For landlords and investors, this could signal a window of opportunity to refinance existing mortgages at potentially more favorable rates, especially with 70,000 fixed-rate mortgage maturities expected in the second half of the year.

What Should Brokers Watch for Next?

Brokers should pay attention to MAB’s upcoming interim results, scheduled for 22 September 2026, as these will provide further insights into market dynamics and consumer behavior. The stability in adjusted profit before tax, expected to be around £14.6 million, indicates that MAB is managing to maintain profitability despite market fluctuations. Brokers may find opportunities in the refinancing market, particularly as MAB’s increased market share suggests a competitive environment.

What This Means for the Mortgage Market

The resilience shown by MAB in increasing its market share and revenue amidst a challenging environment highlights the adaptability of the mortgage market. Borrowers looking to refinance might find advantageous conditions, while brokers can capitalize on the evolving market by offering tailored advice and products. The anticipated increase in refinancing volumes due to fixed-rate maturities could lead to a more dynamic market in the latter half of 2026.

Frequently asked questions

What factors are influencing MAB’s growth in the mortgage market?

MAB’s growth is primarily driven by an increase in property refinancing, which has been significant amidst changing consumer confidence and interest rate uncertainties.

How can borrowers benefit from the current mortgage market conditions?

Borrowers may benefit from refinancing opportunities, particularly with a notable number of fixed-rate mortgages maturing, allowing them to potentially secure better rates in a fluctuating market.

Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) has announced a notable increase in its first-half revenue and mortgage completions, despite facing a challenging UK housing market characterized by low consumer confidence and fluctuating mortgage rates. The technology-driven property finance group reported a 16% rise in mortgage completions, reaching approximately £16.5 billion in the six months ending 30 June 2026, compared to £14.2 billion during the same period last year. Revenue also saw an 8% increase, climbing to around £160 million from £148.2 million in the first half of 2025, bolstered by a surge in property refinancing.

TL;DR: MAB’s mortgage completions rose 16% to £16.5 billion, indicating resilience in a tough market; borrowers can expect continued refinancing opportunities amid interest rate uncertainty.

How has MAB performed in the mortgage market?

The recent performance of MAB highlights its ability to navigate a challenging mortgage market. The group’s share of new mortgage lending increased slightly to 8.3% in the five months leading to 31 May 2026, up from 8.2% the previous year. Additionally, its share of product transfers rose from 2.9% to 3.2%. This growth illustrates MAB’s expanding influence in the mortgage sector, particularly as it adapts to changing market conditions.

What does this mean for borrowers?

For borrowers, MAB’s results suggest a continued opportunity for refinancing, especially as the company anticipates 70,000 fixed-rate mortgage maturities in the second half of the year, which could drive refinancing volumes. The first 19 weeks of 2026 saw mortgage applications increase by 15% year-on-year, indicating that many borrowers are taking proactive steps to secure better rates amid ongoing interest rate uncertainties. However, a subsequent 13% decline in applications over the last seven weeks of June signals potential caution among consumers.

What challenges are affecting the mortgage market?

The UK housing market remains under pressure due to subdued consumer confidence and volatile mortgage pricing. MAB’s adjusted profit before tax is projected to be around £14.6 million, which is relatively stable compared to £14.5 million in the first half of 2025. This stability in profit, despite market challenges, reflects MAB’s effective strategies in managing its operations and responding to market demands.

What this means for brokers and investors

Brokers and investors should take note of MAB’s growth in market share and completions, as it indicates a shift in borrower behavior towards refinancing rather than new purchases. With mortgage applications showing mixed signals, brokers may need to adjust their strategies to focus on refinancing opportunities. Investors should also be aware that the market dynamics are shifting, and understanding these trends will be important for making informed decisions moving forward.

Frequently asked questions

What should borrowers do in the current mortgage market?

Borrowers should consider refinancing options, especially with a significant number of fixed-rate mortgages maturing in the second half of the year. Keeping an eye on market trends and interest rates will help in making timely decisions.

How can brokers adapt to the changing mortgage market?

Brokers should focus on refinancing opportunities and stay informed about market shifts. Understanding borrower needs and providing tailored advice will be key to maintaining competitiveness in the evolving mortgage market.