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Tag: Mortgage Rates

Later Life Lending: Growth Summit 2026 Insights and Impact
In this article:
Air has announced a later life mortgage summit, the Growth Summit, scheduled for 12 May 2026, at Lumiere London. The event, designed to equip advisers with strategies to navigate regulatory and market changes in the later life lending sector, is set to provide valuable insights into the evolving mortgage landscape.

Understanding the Later Life Lending Opportunity

Air’s chief executive, Will Hale, and Stephanie Charman, chief executive of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI), will provide a market overview and discuss the scale of the later life lending opportunity. With the current mortgage rates at 3.75%, the potential for growth in this sector is significant.

Scenario 1: A Remortgager

Consider a remortgager with a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV. If the rate were to decrease by 0.25% due to market shifts, their monthly payments would reduce from £1,432 to £1,389. This equates to a saving of £43 per month or £516 per year.

Scenario 2: A First-Time Buyer

For a first-time buyer with a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 90% LTV, a 0.25% rate decrease would lower their monthly payments from £1,017 to £991. This results in a monthly saving of £26 and an annual saving of £312.

Scenario 3: A Landlord

A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only BTL mortgage could also benefit from a rate decrease. A 0.25% drop in rates could reduce their monthly cost from £625 to £600. This translates to a saving of £25 per month or £300 per year.

Market Context and Regulatory Backdrop

With the UK base rate at 3.75% as of April 2026, the mortgage market is in a state of flux. Six months ago, the base rate was 3.5%, indicating a rising trend. This backdrop presents both challenges and opportunities for advisers in the later life lending sector. A year ago, the base rate was at 3.25%, which means it has increased by 0.5% over the past 12 months. This steady increase can impact the affordability of mortgages, particularly for those in the later life lending sector.

Role of Advisers in Meeting Growing Demand

Advisers have a crucial role to play in meeting the growing demand for later life lending. The Growth Summit aims to equip them with practical strategies to support business growth and improve client outcomes amid changing customer needs and regulatory landscape. With the right guidance, borrowers can make informed decisions and potentially save on their mortgage payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the later life lending sector?

The later life lending sector refers to mortgages and loans designed for individuals in their later years, typically over the age of 55. These products can include equity release, retirement interest-only mortgages, and more.

How can a decrease in mortgage rates benefit me?

A decrease in mortgage rates can significantly reduce your monthly payments. For example, a 0.25% rate decrease on a £200,000 repayment mortgage can result in annual savings of up to £312.

What is the current UK base rate?

The current UK base rate, as of April 2026, is 3.75%. This rate, set by the Bank of England, influences the interest rates offered by lenders.

What is the role of advisers in the later life lending sector?

Advisers guide clients through the complexities of later life lending, providing advice on the best products and strategies based on individual circumstances and market trends.
May 7, 2026
Cloud Mortgages Switches to Stonebridge Network: What it Means for Borrowers in 2026
In this article:
As of 5th May 2026, Cloud Mortgages has transitioned its network from Primis to Stonebridge. This move comes as the firm expands its team from two advisers in 2025 to six, with plans to reach ten by the end of the year. Here’s what this means for different types of borrowers.

Impact on First-Time Buyers

Scenario: £250,000 Repayment Mortgage at 90% LTV

For first-time buyers, assuming a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 90% LTV, the switch to Stonebridge could potentially offer more competitive rates. With the current base rate at 3.75% as of April 2026, a 0.25% reduction could decrease monthly payments from £1,194 to £1,163, a saving of £31 per month or £372 per year. This is a significant saving for those entering the property market for the first time.

Effect on Remortgagers

Scenario: £200,000 Repayment Mortgage at 75% LTV

Remortgagers could also stand to benefit. For instance, a homeowner with a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV could see their monthly payments drop from £1,020 to £997 with a 0.25% rate cut. This translates to a monthly saving of £23, or £276 annually. This saving could be used to pay off the mortgage faster or for other financial goals.

Scenario: £300,000 Interest-Only Mortgage at 60% LTV

For landlords with a £300,000 interest-only mortgage at 60% LTV, a 0.25% rate cut could reduce monthly payments from £750 to £725, a saving of £25 per month or £300 per year. This could improve rental yields and overall profitability for landlords.

Market Context

Compared to a year ago, the base rate has increased by 0.5%, from 3.25% in May 2025. This is a significant increase, and it has led to higher mortgage rates for many borrowers. The move by Cloud Mortgages to Stonebridge, a network known for its high level of service without high monthly fees, could be seen as a strategic response to these market conditions. Stonebridge’s CEO, Rob Clifford, has welcomed Cloud Mortgages, noting that the firm’s growth and strong customer service reputation make it a valuable addition to the network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current UK base rate?

The current UK base rate, as set by the Bank of England, is 3.75% as of April 2026.

How does the base rate affect my mortgage?

The base rate influences the interest rates offered by lenders. A higher base rate often leads to higher mortgage rates, increasing the cost of borrowing. Conversely, a lower base rate can lead to lower mortgage rates, reducing borrowing costs.

How has Cloud Mortgages grown recently?

Cloud Mortgages has expanded from two advisers at the start of 2025 to six as of May 2026, with plans to reach a team of ten by the end of the year.

What areas does Cloud Mortgages operate in?

Cloud Mortgages operates across the Midlands, North West and Scotland, with a central team based in Nottingham.
May 7, 2026
Omni Mortgage Club: A New Era for UK Mortgage Advisers in 2026
In this article:
On 6 May 2026, Fintel Services launched the Omni Mortgage Club, a new platform aimed at meeting the needs of advisers in an increasingly complex lending environment. This launch demonstrates Fintel’s commitment to raising professional standards and providing meaningful value to advisers, with a comprehensive lending panel, innovative technology, and self-service options.

Omni Mortgage Club: A Closer Look

Benefits for Advisers

Omni Mortgage Club offers a comprehensive lending panel, advanced technology, and self-service options. Tailored dashboards, compliance and ancillary resources are among the benefits. Advisers can register their interest in joining via the club’s website.

Impact on the Mortgage Market

David Morris, managing director of mortgages at Santander, noted that intermediary distribution forms a crucial part of the evolving mortgage market. He expressed his enthusiasm for working with Omni Mortgage Club as they bring their new club to market. This indicates a positive reception from major industry players.

Worked Examples: How Omni Mortgage Club Could Impact Borrowers

First-Time Buyer

A first-time buyer, securing a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV, could potentially benefit from the expertise of advisers using Omni Mortgage Club. Assuming an interest rate of 3.75% (the Bank of England base rate as of April 2026), their monthly payments would be around £1,157. The support and resources available to advisers through Omni Mortgage Club could help secure the best possible deal for such borrowers.

Remortgager

A remortgager with a £200,000 mortgage, looking to secure a better rate, could also benefit. Assuming a 75% LTV and an interest rate of 3.75%, their monthly payments would be around £926. The comprehensive lending panel and advanced technology available to advisers through Omni Mortgage Club could help identify the most suitable remortgage options.

Market Context: The Bigger Picture

Current Mortgage Climate

As of May 2026, the UK base rate stands at 3.75%. This is a significant increase from the 0.1% base rate seen in 2020, indicating a more challenging environment for borrowers. The launch of Omni Mortgage Club is timely, providing advisers with the tools to navigate this complex landscape.

Comparing to Previous Year

Compared to May 2025, the base rate has increased by 0.5%. This increase may have resulted in higher mortgage repayments for many borrowers, emphasising the importance of expert advice in securing the best rates. Omni Mortgage Club’s comprehensive lending panel and advanced technology could prove invaluable in this context.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Omni Mortgage Club?

Omni Mortgage Club is a new platform launched by Fintel Services on 6 May 2026. It provides advisers with a comprehensive lending panel, advanced technology, and self-service options to better serve their clients.

How can Omni Mortgage Club benefit advisers?

Advisers can benefit from Omni Mortgage Club’s comprehensive lending panel, advanced technology, and self-service options. These resources can help advisers better serve their clients and navigate the complex lending environment.

What is the current UK base rate?

As of April 2026, the UK base rate is 3.75%, as set by the Bank of England.

How has the base rate changed over the past year?

Compared to May 2025, the base rate has increased by 0.5%, from 3.25% to 3.75%.
May 6, 2026
84% of UK Landlords Profitable in 2026: What This Means for Your Mortgage
In this article:
As of May 2026, the majority of landlords in the UK are still turning a profit, with 84% reporting profitability, according to the latest Landlord Trends research from Foundation. This comes amid average rental yields of 6.5% and increasing portfolio values and rental income. However, the landscape is not without its challenges, with 42% of landlords considering selling at least one rental property in the next year.

Landlord Profitability and Rental Yields

The latest data, conducted in partnership with Pegasus Insight, shows that despite the current base rate of 3.75%, landlords are still managing to maintain profitability. The average rental yield has edged up to 6.5%, suggesting a healthy return on investment for landlords. For context, this is an increase from the 5.8% yield reported six months ago.

Scenario: Landlord with a £200,000 Buy-to-Let Mortgage

Consider a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage. With a rental yield of 6.5%, they would receive an annual income of £13,000 from their property. Even after deducting mortgage interest payments, which at the current base rate of 3.75% would amount to £7,500 per year, they would still be left with a profit of £5,500.

Scenario: Landlord with a Portfolio of 7.3 Properties

The data also reveals that the average portfolio size has increased to 7.3 properties. This indicates a shift towards more structured, portfolio-based investment. For a landlord with 7 properties, each valued at £200,000, the total annual rental income would be £91,000. Even after mortgage interest payments of £52,500, the landlord would still make a profit of £38,500.

Landlord Challenges and Future Expectations

Despite the profitability, landlords face challenges. 43% reported experiencing void periods and 30% reported rental arrears over the last 12 months. Additionally, 42% plan to sell at least one rental property in the next year. However, 62% of landlords with lower-rated EPC properties plan to carry out works to meet future requirements, suggesting a willingness to invest in property stock and maintain long-term viability.

Projected Rent Increases

Around 61% of landlords expect to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%. This is likely a response to the current base rate of 3.75%, which is higher than the 3.25% reported six months ago. This could potentially increase rental income and profitability for landlords.

Remortgaging Plans

Nearly four in 10 landlords with borrowing (39%) are planning to remortgage in the next year. This aligns with the current mortgage rates and could potentially lower their monthly payments, further boosting profitability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average rental yield for landlords?

The average rental yield for landlords is currently 6.5%, an increase from the 5.8% reported six months ago.

What percentage of landlords are currently profitable?

According to the latest data from Foundation, 84% of landlords in the UK are currently profitable.

What percentage of landlords plan to increase rents in the next 12 months?

About 61% of landlords plan to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%.

What percentage of landlords are planning to remortgage in the next year?

Approximately 39% of landlords with borrowing are planning to remortgage in the next year, potentially taking advantage of competitive mortgage rates.
May 6, 2026
Cloud Mortgages Joins Stonebridge Network: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026
In this article:
Cloud Mortgages, a growing firm in the UK mortgage market, has joined the Stonebridge network, aiming to expand its team of advisers from six to ten by year-end. This move, announced on May 5, 2026, is expected to impact mortgage seekers, with potential benefits for both first-time buyers and remortgagers.

Impact on First-Time Buyers

Cloud Mortgages’ integration into the Stonebridge network could potentially offer more competitive rates to first-time buyers. Let’s consider a scenario where a first-time buyer is looking to purchase a property valued at £300,000 with a 90% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. Assuming a fixed rate of 3.75%, the monthly repayment would be £1,393. However, with the increased competition and potential rate cuts, this could reduce to £1,350, saving the buyer £43 per month or £516 annually.

Scenario for Buyers at 80% LTV

For a first-time buyer purchasing a property at £400,000 with an 80% LTV, the monthly repayment at the current base rate of 3.75% would be £1,859. A potential rate cut to 3.5% would reduce the monthly payment to £1,798, resulting in an annual saving of £732.

Implications for Remortgagers

Remortgagers could also benefit from this development. For instance, a homeowner with a £250,000 mortgage at a 75% LTV, currently repaying at the base rate of 3.75%, would have monthly payments of £1,159. If Cloud Mortgages, through its association with Stonebridge, can offer a more competitive rate of 3.5%, this would reduce the monthly payment to £1,123, leading to an annual saving of £432.

Scenario for Landlords on Interest-Only Mortgages

A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage at the current base rate of 3.75% would have a monthly cost of £625. A potential reduction in the rate to 3.5% would lower the monthly cost to £583, providing an annual saving of £504.

Market Context

The UK base rate, as of April 2026, stands at 3.75%, a significant increase from 3.25% six months ago and 2.75% a year ago. This move by Cloud Mortgages comes at a time when the mortgage market is experiencing increased competition, which could potentially drive down rates, despite the rising base rate. The addition of Cloud Mortgages to the Stonebridge network, following the addition of Right Choice Mortgages in March, signifies Stonebridge’s expansion strategy and its potential impact on the current mortgage rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Cloud Mortgages joining the Stonebridge network?

The move signifies an expansion strategy from Stonebridge, potentially leading to more competitive mortgage rates for borrowers. It also indicates growth for Cloud Mortgages, which plans to increase its team of advisers from six to ten by the end of 2026.

How could this affect first-time buyers?

First-time buyers could potentially benefit from more competitive rates. For instance, on a £300,000 mortgage at a 90% LTV, a rate reduction could save a buyer up to £516 annually.

What does this mean for remortgagers?

Remortgagers could also see benefits. On a £250,000 mortgage at a 75% LTV, a rate reduction from 3.75% to 3.5% could lead to an annual saving of £432.

What is the current UK base rate?

As of April 2026, the UK base rate is 3.75%, up from 3.25% six months ago, according to the Bank of England base rate.
May 6, 2026
UK Homeowners Allocated a Fifth of Income to Mortgages in 2025
In this article:
As of May 2026, UK homeowners spent around a fifth of their income on mortgage payments in 2025, according to UK Finance. This is the highest level since 2008, with homebuyers spending on average 21.3% of their gross income. This article will delve into what this means for homeowners and potential buyers, with worked examples and a look at the broader market context.

Regional Differences in Mortgage Affordability

UK Finance’s Lending Where We Live report revealed significant regional differences in mortgage affordability. North Norfolk in East Anglia and the London Borough of Hillingdon saw borrowers spending over a quarter of their gross income on mortgage repayments, at 25.7% and 25.1% respectively. Other areas in the London commuter belt, such as Luton (24.9%), Slough (24.8%) and Spelthorne (24.8%), also ranked among the top 10 least affordable places. Conversely, seven of the 10 most affordable local authorities were in Scotland, including East Ayrshire and Inverclyde.

Worked Examples for Homeowners and Potential Buyers

First-Time Buyer

Consider a first-time buyer in London, where the typical borrower has £280,000 of mortgage debt. With a 75% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, this equates to a property value of approximately £373,333. At the current mortgage rates of 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be around £1,297. This would represent approximately 21.3% of a gross income of £73,000 – the median income in London as of 2025.

Remortgager

For a homeowner in Northern Ireland looking to remortgage, the average mortgage debt is significantly lower at £99,500. Assuming a 75% LTV on a property worth £133,000, and using the current mortgage rate of 3.75%, the monthly repayment would be around £461. This equates to about 18% of a gross income of £30,500 – the median income in Northern Ireland as of 2025.

Market Context

UK Finance found that there were 723,000 UK house purchase mortgages advanced in 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year. This growth occurred despite challenges such as stamp duty surcharges, the progressive removal of income tax relief for mortgage interest, and stricter underwriting standards. All regions of the UK saw growth in buy-to-let purchase activity in 2025, though returns varied widely. Scotland had the highest rental yields, with a gross yield of over 9%, while the lowest returns were scattered across England.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of income did UK homeowners spend on mortgages in 2025?

On average, UK homeowners spent 21.3% of their gross income on mortgage payments in 2025.

Which areas had the highest and lowest mortgage affordability in 2025?

North Norfolk in East Anglia and the London Borough of Hillingdon had the lowest mortgage affordability, with homeowners spending over a quarter of their income on repayments. The most affordable areas were in Scotland, including East Ayrshire and Inverclyde.

How has the number of UK house purchase mortgages changed year-on-year?

There were 723,000 UK house purchase mortgages advanced in 2025, representing a 17% increase from the previous year.

What were the rental yields in Scotland and England in 2025?

Scotland had the highest rental yields in 2025, with a gross yield of over 9%. The lowest returns were found in England, with areas such as South Hams in Devon yielding 5%.
May 6, 2026
Leeds BS and Coventry Slash Mortgage Rates: Impact on UK Borrowers in 2026
In this article:
As of May 2026, Leeds Building Society and Coventry for Intermediaries have reduced their mortgage rates by up to 0.35%. This significant decrease, which includes high loan-to-value deals with no fees, will have a tangible impact on both new and existing borrowers. Meanwhile, Monmouthshire Building Society has implemented the Phoebus platform to enhance mortgage account servicing.

Impact of Reduced Mortgage Rates

Scenario: First-Time Buyer at 90% LTV

A first-time buyer taking out a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 90% LTV from Leeds BS will see their monthly payments decrease from £1,201 to £1,163 due to the rate cut. This results in a saving of £38 per month, or £456 annually.

Scenario: Existing Borrower Remortgaging at 75% LTV

An existing borrower with Coventry, remortgaging a £250,000 property at 75% LTV, will see their monthly payments drop from £1,432 to £1,389. This equates to a £43 monthly saving, or £516 over the course of a year.

Scenario: Landlord with Interest-Only Mortgage

A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage with Coventry will see their monthly cost drop from £625 to £583. This equates to a saving of £42 per month or £504 per year, improving the rental yield.

Market Context

The recent reductions in mortgage rates come amidst a period of fluctuating interest rates. The current Bank of England base rate stands at 3.75%, having risen from 3.5% six months ago and 3.25% a year ago. Despite the rising base rate, major lenders including Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, and Santander have recently cut some fixed rates. However, the overall outlook remains unclear, with the potential for further changes in the current mortgage rates.

Monmouthshire BS and Phoebus

Monmouthshire Building Society’s move to implement the Phoebus platform is expected to improve efficiency through automation. The platform will support a full range of products, including residential and buy-to-let, and will onboard new loans. The society plans to migrate existing mortgage and savings accounts onto the system in a later phase. This is a significant step in the digital transformation of the mortgage industry, which aims to enhance the customer experience and streamline operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I save with the new Leeds BS and Coventry mortgage rates?

For a £200,000 mortgage at 90% LTV, the rate cut could reduce your monthly payments by £38, saving you £456 per year. For a £250,000 mortgage at 75% LTV, you could save £43 per month, or £516 annually. A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only mortgage could save £42 per month, or £504 per year.

What is the current Bank of England base rate?

The current Bank of England base rate is 3.75% as of April 2026.

What is the Phoebus platform?

The Phoebus platform is a mortgage account servicing system that enhances efficiency through automation. It supports a full range of products, including residential and buy-to-let.

What is the overall outlook for mortgage rates?

While some major lenders have recently cut fixed rates, the overall outlook for mortgage rates remains uncertain due to fluctuating interest rates. Borrowers should monitor the mortgage rate comparison for potential changes.
May 6, 2026
UK Homeowners Spend 21% of Income on Mortgages: What This Means in 2026
In this article:
As of May 2026, UK homeowners are committing around 21.3% of their gross income to initial mortgage repayments, according to a recent report by UK Finance. This is the highest level since 2008, with significant regional differences in mortgage affordability and buy-to-let returns.

Dissecting the Numbers

Regional Differences

UK Finance’s Lending Where We Live report reveals that borrowers in North Norfolk and the London Borough of Hillingdon spend over a quarter of their gross income on mortgage repayments, at 25.7% and 25.1% respectively. Other areas of high expenditure include Luton (24.9%), Slough (24.8%), and Spelthorne (24.8%), all within the London commuter belt. In contrast, seven of the ten most affordable local authorities are in Scotland, where borrowers need almost nine percentage points less of their gross income to cover initial mortgage repayments.

Buy-to-Let Returns

Despite challenges such as stamp duty surcharges and stricter underwriting standards, all regions of the UK saw growth in buy-to-let purchase activity in 2025. However, returns varied widely. The highest rental yields were found in Scotland, with a gross yield of over 9%. Meanwhile, the lowest returns were scattered across England, with areas such as South Hams in Devon, Cambridge in East Anglia, the Derbyshire Dales, and Rutland all seeing returns of around 5%.

Worked Examples

First-Time Buyer

Consider a first-time buyer in London, where the typical borrower has £280,000 of mortgage debt. Assuming a 75% loan-to-value ratio, their mortgage would be £210,000. With the current mortgage rates at 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be approximately £1,029. This represents around 25% of the average UK gross monthly income of £4,110, which is above the national average of 21.3%.

Remortgager

Now consider a borrower in Northern Ireland, where the average mortgage debt is significantly lower at £99,500. If they were to remortgage at 75% loan-to-value, their mortgage would be approximately £74,625. With the same interest rate of 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be around £366. This represents just over 8% of the average UK gross monthly income, significantly below the national average.

Market Context

These figures represent a significant increase from 2024, when the average UK homeowner spent just over 18% of their income on mortgage repayments. The increase in the proportion of income spent on mortgages is likely due to the rise in the Bank of England base rate, which currently stands at 3.75% as of April 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of my income should I spend on a mortgage?

The general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing expenses, including your mortgage. However, as of 2025, the average UK homeowner is spending 21.3% of their income on mortgage repayments.

What are the least affordable areas in the UK for mortgage repayments?

As of 2025, the least affordable areas in the UK for mortgage repayments are North Norfolk and the London Borough of Hillingdon, where borrowers spend over 25% of their gross income on mortgage repayments.

What are the most affordable areas in the UK for mortgage repayments?

As of 2025, seven of the ten most affordable local authorities for mortgage repayments are in Scotland, where borrowers need almost nine percentage points less of their gross income to cover initial mortgage payments.

What is the average mortgage debt in the UK?

As of 2025, the typical borrower in London has £280,000 of mortgage debt, the highest in the UK. The region with the next highest level is the South East, while Northern Ireland has the lowest average mortgage debt at £99,500.
May 6, 2026
Cloud Mortgages Joins Stonebridge Network: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026
In this article:
Cloud Mortgages, a rapidly growing mortgage firm, has switched its network to Stonebridge from Primis. The firm, which has grown from two advisers in 2025 to six and plans to expand to 10 by the end of the year, is known for its strong customer service reputation. This move could potentially influence the mortgage rates and services available to borrowers in the Midlands, North West, and Scotland.

Impact on Mortgage Rates and Services

First-Time Buyer Scenario

Consider a first-time buyer in Nottingham looking to purchase a property valued at £250,000 with a 90% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. With the current mortgage rates at 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be approximately £1,169. However, if Cloud Mortgages, under the Stonebridge network, were able to offer a competitive rate of 3.5%, the monthly repayment would decrease to £1,122, resulting in a yearly saving of £564. This could make homeownership more affordable for first-time buyers, especially in a market where property prices have been steadily rising.

Remortgager Scenario

A remortgager in the North West with a £200,000 mortgage at a 75% LTV could also benefit. At the current base rate of 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be around £926. If Cloud Mortgages were able to offer a lower rate of 3.5% under the Stonebridge network, the monthly repayment would drop to £898, resulting in a yearly saving of £336. This could provide significant relief for homeowners looking to remortgage, especially in a market where rates have been on an upward trend.

Landlord Scenario

For a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage, the monthly cost at the current base rate of 3.75% would be around £625. If Cloud Mortgages, under the new network, were able to offer a lower rate of 3.5%, the monthly cost would drop to £583, resulting in a yearly saving of £504. This could potentially increase rental yields for landlords in a market where rental demand is high but profits have been squeezed by rising costs.

Market Context

As of May 2026, the UK base rate stands at 3.75%, a significant increase from the 0.1% rate seen in May 2021 according to the Bank of England. This rise has led to increased mortgage rates across the board. Over the past year, the average two-year fixed mortgage rate has risen from 1.19% in May 2025 to 1.95% in May 2026, according to mortgage rate comparison data. Cloud Mortgages’ move to the Stonebridge network could potentially offer more competitive rates to borrowers, providing some relief in a market characterized by rising costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cloud Mortgages’ switch to Stonebridge mean for borrowers?

This move could potentially lead to more competitive mortgage rates and improved services for borrowers in the Midlands, North West, and Scotland.

How could this move affect first-time buyers?

First-time buyers could potentially benefit from lower mortgage rates. For example, a 0.25% reduction in rate on a £250,000 mortgage could lead to a yearly saving of £564.

What could this mean for those looking to remortgage?

Remortgagers could also benefit from lower rates. A 0.25% reduction on a £200,000 mortgage could result in a yearly saving of £336.

How does this fit into the wider market context?

In a market characterized by rising mortgage rates due to a higher base rate, Cloud Mortgages’ move to Stonebridge could potentially offer some relief to borrowers by providing more competitive rates.
May 5, 2026
700 Ex-Rental Homes Listed Daily: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026
In this article:
As of May 2026, around 700 formerly rented homes are being listed for sale every day, marking a significant shift in the UK property market. This trend, highlighted by Savills, could influence mortgage rates and property values, impacting both homeowners and landlords.

Analysis of the Current Property Market

According to property firm Savills, 254,000 previously let buy-to-let homes were listed for sale in Great Britain in the 12 months to the end of March 2026. This works out at approximately 697 properties per day. The amount of buy-to-let stock for sale has risen by 28% on March 2024 and is 9% above levels seen in the year to March 2025. The trend is most pronounced in London, where former rental properties accounted for 30% of all new sales instructions, compared to 13% across the rest of Great Britain.

Impact on Homeowners and Landlords

Scenario 1: First-Time Buyers

For a first-time buyer considering a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV, this influx of properties could potentially lead to more competitive pricing. Assuming the current mortgage rates of 3.75%, monthly payments would amount to £1,157. If property prices were to drop by 5% due to increased supply, the mortgage would reduce to £237,500, and the monthly payment would decrease to £1,099, saving £58 per month or £696 per year.

Scenario 2: Landlords

A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage could also be affected. If property prices fall and they decide to remortgage, they may find their LTV ratio has increased. This could lead to higher interest rates and monthly costs. For instance, if their property value falls by 10% to £180,000, their LTV would increase from 75% to 88%. If their interest rate subsequently rises to 4.25%, their monthly payment would increase from £625 to £708.

Market Context and Future Trends

Compared to the situation six months ago, the number of ex-rental properties on the market has significantly increased. This surge is partly due to landlords serving Section 21 notices to test achievable rents in the open market. Interestingly, 14% of these homes were purchased by other landlords, effectively returning to the private rented sector. With the Bank of England base rate currently at 3.75%, the direction of travel for mortgage rates will be influenced by these market dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ex-rental homes are being listed for sale daily?

Around 700 ex-rental homes are being listed for sale every day, according to Savills’ analysis of the market in the year to March 2026.

What is the trend in buy-to-let stock for sale?

The amount of buy-to-let stock for sale has increased by 28% on March 2024 levels and is 9% above levels seen in the year to March 2025.

How does this trend affect first-time buyers?

The increased supply of properties could lead to more competitive pricing. For example, a 5% drop in property prices could save a first-time buyer with a £250,000 mortgage £58 per month, or £696 per year.

What is the impact on landlords?

Landlords may face higher LTV ratios and potentially higher interest rates if property prices fall. For instance, a 10% drop in property value could increase the monthly payment on a £200,000 mortgage from £625 to £708.
May 5, 2026