Mortgage News, Insights & Advice
All the latest UK mortgage news, insights and advice from the world of mortgage lending and Oportfolio
Why Is Insurance Important? – Real Life Stories
Many people ask, “Why is insurance important?” In this guide, we share two real-life stories that highlight the importance of life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection, and why arranging protection early can safeguard your family’s financial future.
Does Having Investments Help You Get a Mortgage?
Can having investments improve your mortgage application? Learn how UK lenders assess investment portfolios, dividend income, ISAs and wealth when deciding how much you can borrow.
UK Mortgage Market Update – 27th of July 2026
The latest UK Mortgage Market Update covering 20th–27th July 2026, including mortgage rate changes, house price trends, Bank of England expectations and what borrowers should watch next.
Skipton Announces Mortgage Rate Changes and Extensions
In a move aimed at providing relief to homeowners and potential buyers amid high mortgage rates, Skipton Building Society has announced a series of mortgage rate changes and product extensions set to take effect on the 12th of September 2023. The building society,...
Equity Release Expert Mike Hardy’s Latest Market Update Reveals Challenges and Optimism
At Oportfolio Mortgages, we regularly work with clients who require more specialist borrowing advice, including later life lending and equity release. Because equity release is a highly specialised area of the market, we work closely with trusted specialists to ensure...
Kent Provides Mortgages For People With Second Jobs
In 2023, the concept of a traditional 9-to-5 job has given way to the rise of the "gig" economy. This new way of working allows individuals to work multiple jobs, diversify their income sources, and enjoy the financial benefits of a flexible work schedule. Whether...
House Prices Drop by £14,000 in a Year – Fastest Decline in 14 Years
House prices in the United Kingdom experienced their most substantial annual decline in 14 years, with the average property value falling by £14,000 over the past year, according to a report released by the Halifax. The data, which was compiled until the end of August...
BM Solutions Announces Changes to Buy-to-Let Stress Rates
In a move that could impact landlords and property investors across the UK, BM Solutions (also known as Birmingham Midshires) has today announced significant changes to its buy-to-let stress rates, set to take effect on Thursday the 7th of September 2023. These...
Why Use A Mortgage Broker Instead Of A Bank
When it comes to securing a mortgage for your dream home, you have two primary options: working with a mortgage broker or going directly to a bank or lender. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, and the decision of whether to go to a mortgage broker or...
NatWest Buy-To-Let Stress Rate Reduced
In a move that is set to benefit landlords and property investors across the UK, NatWest has recently unveiled some reductions in their Buy-to-Let stress rate tests. The adjustments, which come into effect immediately, reflect NatWest's commitment to supporting the...
New NatWest Criteria for Non-UK Nationals Purchasing in the UK
In a recent move that is set to simplify the mortgage application process for non-UK nationals, NatWest has unveiled a new policy change concerning the use of share codes in conjunction with passports. This new change to NatWest's criteria opens up new possibilities...
Understanding TSB’s Mortgage Affordability Criteria
Buying a home is a significant financial milestone, and securing a mortgage is often a crucial step in this process. TSB, a prominent retail and commercial bank, has established a set of mortgage affordability criteria to ensure that potential borrowers can...
Pros and Cons of Buying Property With Friends or Family
Purchasing a residential house is a significant milestone in anyone's life, often symbolising financial stability and personal achievement. However, the soaring property prices in recent years have made this dream a bit more challenging to attain. Mortgage...
Understanding BM Solutions Mortgage Affordability For Buy-to-Lets
Owning a property is an aim held by many, and owning further properties to rent out and earn a secondary income is a dream that can become a reality, with the right mortgage partner and broker. In this blog post, we'll explore the realm of mortgage affordability with...
Virgin Introduces New Mortgage Products Whilst Retiring Others
In an effort to adapt to the ever changing UK mortgage market, Virgin Money, the banking arm of Richard Branson's Virgin Group, is set to launch a series of new mortgage products today (23rd of August 2023). These offerings cater to a range of borrowers, from...
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