Mortgage News, Insights & Advice
All the latest UK mortgage news, insights and advice from the world of mortgage lending and Oportfolio
How to Pay Off an Interest-Only Mortgage
Interest-only mortgages have become increasingly popular among borrowers looking for lower monthly payments and greater financial flexibility. But with those lower payments comes a major responsibility. You must have a reliable plan for repaying the capital at the end...
Barclays Increases Maximum Loan-to-Income to 6x
Barclays has announced a major update to its affordability policy, increasing its maximum residential loan-to-income (LTI) multiple from 5.5x to 6x. This change is significant for borrowers who need a higher income stretch to secure the mortgage they want, especially...
What Is A Mortgage Holiday?
What Is a Mortgage Holiday? A mortgage holiday, also known as a mortgage payment holiday, is a temporary break from making your regular monthly mortgage payments. It’s an arrangement made with your lender that allows you to pause your repayments for a short, agreed...
The Truth About “5x Income” Mortgages – What Banks Don’t Tell You
It sounds simple enough, “We lend up to 5x your income.” But as Santander’s latest market update made clear, these catchy marketing lines can be misleading. In this bite sized blog, we will explore larger income multiple borrowing and what it actually means to people...
It Now Takes 11 Years to Save for a Deposit
In 1974, the average first-time buyer could save a property deposit in just three months. Today, that same goal takes more than 11 years. Le that sink in. Santander’s figures from their latest market update starkly illustrate the affordability crisis facing first-time...
Why Some Mortgage Applications Fail – Even With a Good Deposit
It’s one of the most frustrating experiences a client can face. A mortgage application declined, despite a solid deposit and a clean credit record. According to Santander’s latest insights, there are a few hidden reasons this happens. In this article we are going to...
The Hidden Credit Factors That Could Affect Your Mortgage – Even With a Good Score
Most buyers assume that a clean credit file and a healthy Experian score mean smooth sailing for a mortgage application. Unfortunately, Santander’s latest update revealed that this isn’t always the case. The Unspoken Issue: Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Services such as...
Why Now Could Be the Time to Buy in London
It’s been a turbulent couple of years for property buyers, but according to Santander’s recent market briefing, there’s reason to believe that 2025 could signal a turning point. In this blog, we will discuss interest rates, market confidence, lending improvements in...
London Property Market – Signs of Growth After a Challenging Year
The past year has been a story of two Londons, one of international prestige and one of everyday life. According to Santander’s latest market update, London’s property market has weathered a difficult 12 months, but there are encouraging signs that the tide may be...
Wandsworth New Builds: Wandsworth Mills and Riverside Living
If you’ve been searching for the perfect blend of modern London living, riverside charm, and long-term property potential, Wandsworth Mills might just be the place you’ve been waiting for. This stunning new development in Wandsworth by Berkeley Group is redefining...
6.5x Income Multiples for HSBC Premier Mortgage Customers
Latest news in the mortgage market is that HSBC has announced that it will now offer up to 6.5x income multiples on residential mortgages for its Premier banking clients, one of the most generous lending limits available from a major UK bank! In this article we will...
Barclays Mortgage Rates of 3.72% Launched
Barclays has announced a series of rate reductions across its residential mortgage range, introducing multiple new sub-4% products, including a standout two-year fixed rate at 3.72%, one of the most competitive deals currently available from a high street lender. The...
The Buy-To-Let Mistakes Every Landlord Should Avoid Making
Buying property to rent out can be an excellent way to build wealth, generate regular income, and secure your financial future. But becoming a successful landlord isn’t as simple as purchasing a property and finding tenants. The buy-to-let market is complex, and...
Nationwide’s 6x Income Mortgage Boosts First-Time Buyer Power
Nationwide Building Society has experienced an enormous rush in demand for its Helping Hand mortgage, following its decision to raise its upper lending limit to six times salary, allowing thousands more first-time buyers to obtain their initial foot on the property...
The Mortgage Works HMO Mortgage Criteria Explained
The Mortgage Works (TMW) has launched a new range of HMO (House of Multiple Occupation) mortgage criteria, including Limited Company deals, competitive loan-to-values of up to 75%, and a choice of fees. The revamp provides more flexibility for landlords looking to...
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