Ready, set, remortgage!
Guest Blog Writer: Charlie Stack, Key Account Manager at The Mortgage Lender (TML)
15 April 2024We recently conducted a survey among residential landlords to delve into the state and sentiment of the current market. While two fifths of landlords have their mortgage coming up for renewal this year, a further 41% are due to renew their mortgage in the following 2-3 years.
Our findings were revealed positive sentiment about the market. The majority of landlords with a mortgage are currently on a 5 year fixed mortgage (42%), while 21% are on a 2 year fixed deals. 15% are on Standard Variable Rate (SVR) mortgages, and 8% are on a tracker mortgage, meaning that these mortgage borrowers tend to see an immediate change in their monthly payments if the Bank of England decides to change the base rate.
Clients have decisions to make
Although some mortgage rates have been lower recently, they still remain higher than they have been for much of the last decade, with the Bank of England base rate currently standing at 5.25%. The market is currently predicting a gradual reduction in rates from the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), however, this may not occur until late summer 2024. Until then, borrowers will have a decision to make about their mortgage deals.While mortgage rates have dropped from their peak, those needing to remortgage in the next year will very likely still have to pay more on their mortgage than they currently are or would have had to if they had taken out the same mortgage a few years ago. Of those landlords needing to renew their mortgage rate, they believe their monthly payments will increase by £615 on average.
Dealing with increasing costs
To deal with higher monthly costs, 30% of landlords have said they plan to increase the rent of the property, 23% have already budgeted for an increase, while 14% said they would sell the property. A further 14% said they plan to convert the property into an HMO in order to secure better returns, and 13% are considering converting to a holiday let.The Bank of England has been grappling with high inflation for well over a year now, introducing successive rate rises to drive it down to more manageable levels. Although they have had some success in achieving this, there is still a way to go. A rate cut could happen this year, though possibly not until the summer.
Advisers are more important than ever
With so many due to remortgage this year, the role of advisers is more important than ever. Landlords should speak to their broker to find the most suitable mortgage for them in order to maintain their property portfolios, particularly as costs of living challenges continue. The opportunity for advisers to show case that they can offer invaluable support and guidance to help provide a holistic view of what deals are most suitable for clients before they rush into any decisions continues to be strong. And here at TML, we will always be looking for ways to support you and your clients. Find out more about how we can help by visiting our website or contact your local BDM.
Methodology - The Mortgage Lender surveyed 1,001 residential (buy to let) landlords via Censuswide between the 18th October and 24th October 2023.
