Navigating the Mortgage Maze: What You Need to Know in a Rising Interest Rate Environment
With interest rates predicted to rise again and the cost of fixed-rate deals increasing, finding the right mortgage option has become more challenging than ever. The prospect of multiple interest rate hikes and the rising costs of fixed-rate mortgages are putting pressure on those seeking new mortgage deals. In this article, we will discuss the current state of interest rates and mortgage costs, as well as explore various options available to individuals in search of a mortgage.
The Bank of England has raised interest rates 12 times since December 2021, bringing the central bank's key base rate to 4.5%, its highest level since 2008. Experts now predict that the Bank of England may raise interest rates an additional five times in the future, signalling a prolonged period of high rates. Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney recently stated that interest rates are likely to remain high "for the foreseeable future." These developments are creating a challenging landscape for prospective mortgage borrowers.
UK banks and building societies have responded to the inflationary pressures by increasing the cost of fixed-rate mortgage deals. Higher than expected annual inflation of 8.7% has prompted markets to speculate that interest rates could surpass 5% by the end of the year. Some projections even suggest rates nearing 5.75% or potentially 6% due to the influence of hawkish comments from the Bank of England or further inflationary data.
This environment poses particular challenges for those with variable-rate mortgages. Approximately 2.2 million people are on a variable-rate mortgage, with half of them on base-rate tracker or discounted-rate deals, and the other half paying their lender's standard variable rate (SVR). As interest rates rise, the monthly payments for variable-rate mortgages are set to increase, potentially impacting borrowers' financial stability.
The average rate on a new two-year fixed-rate mortgage has experienced significant fluctuations. In May of the previous year, it was just over 3%, peaking at 4.74% on September 23, the day of the mini-budget, before fluctuating above 6% and then declining. However, recent inflation data has driven the average rate back up. As a result, individuals securing a typical two-year fixed-rate deal today could end up paying nearly £4,000 more per year compared to someone who obtained a similar deal in May of the previous year.
It is estimated that approximately 1.3 million people have fixed-rate mortgage deals expiring between the beginning of next month and the end of June 2024. For those whose deal is not ending for another year or so, options may be more limited. However, individuals in other situations can take proactive steps.
If your mortgage deal is ending in a few months, you can consider reserving a remortgage offer now and monitoring market fluctuations. If the cost of new deals decreases, you are not obligated to proceed with the reserved offer. However, if rates rise, you have the advantage of securing a lower rate. Timing is crucial, as mortgage deals are subject to change rapidly, and advice received today may differ from next week's recommendations.
For stability seekers, fixed-rate mortgages remain a preferred option. Consult with your broker or lender well in advance to discuss available advice. Some borrowers may have the opportunity to extend the mortgage term, reducing monthly payments. Although this approach extends the loan duration and accrues more interest, some individuals may view it as a justifiable trade-off.
In certain cases, lenders may agree to convert a portion of the mortgage to an interest-only payment plan, allowing borrowers to cover only the accrued interest and reducing monthly repayments.
In conclusion, the current landscape of rising interest rates and increasing costs of fixed-rate mortgages presents a significant challenge for individuals seeking a mortgage. With the Bank of England predicted to raise interest rates further and inflationary pressures impacting mortgage costs, borrowers must navigate this environment wisely.
For those on variable-rate mortgages, the prospect of rising monthly payments necessitates proactive measures. Exploring options such as reserving a remortgage offer now and monitoring market fluctuations can provide flexibility in securing a favourable rate. Consulting with brokers and lenders early on allows borrowers to receive tailored advice and potentially extend the mortgage term to reduce monthly payments.
Fixed-rate mortgages continue to be a popular choice for stability seekers. Despite the higher costs associated with these mortgages, locking in a fixed rate provides certainty in monthly payments, enabling better budgeting and protection against future rate increases.
Lenders may also offer alternatives, such as converting a portion of the mortgage to an interest-only payment plan, reducing monthly repayments. However, it is crucial to carefully consider the implications of such arrangements, as they may extend the loan duration and result in additional interest payments.
Overall, in this challenging mortgage landscape, it is essential for individuals to stay informed, seek professional advice, and carefully weigh the available options to make the best decision based on their financial circumstances and long-term goals.
