Mortgage rates have been on a downward trajectory since the beginning of March, with fixed rates in particular benefiting from the best reductions, according to the latest datar. Added to this is an increase in the number of fee-free deals and other incentives for borrowers, making the landscape increasingly attractive to property owners and investors.

Since the coronavirus outbreak in the UK, the Bank of England has reduced its base rate twice. It now sits at just 0.1%, a record low, so it is unsurprising this has fed into UK mortgage rates. For mortgaged homeowners, or those looking to invest in property, there is no better time to look into borrowing options.

Cheap time to borrow

Moneyfacts has compiled comparison data looking at a range of changes between March and 19th June. Positive trends have been found across the board, starting with a significant reduction in average rates.

The average rate for fixed-rate deals with a fee has reduced from 2.89% in March to 2.30% in June. Similarly, the average fixed rate for fee-free products has fallen from 2.8% to 2.28%. Even standard variable rates, have fallen from 4.9% to 4.48%.

What incentives are available?

Most mortgage providers offer a range of products with certain incentives and ‘added bonuses’ for the borrower. The rate on offer should always be considered in conjunction with the incentive, of course. However, depending on your individual situation and needs, these offers can be worth considering.

Some lenders offer to waive or refund legal fees with certain products. This can save the borrower a good chunk of money at the outset of their property purchase. According to Moneyfacts, the number of deals available with free or refunded legal fees has increased by 5% between March and June.

Likewise, the number of options with a free or refunded valuation has increased by 7%. The number of deals offering cashback has also risen by 2%.

Savings for homeowners, buyers and investors

The Moneyfacts data demonstrates how fixed rates across the UK mortgage market have fallen to “attractive lows” over recent weeks. As such, customers who are on lenders’ standard variable rates are strongly urged to fix if they can. There is also the possibility that rates could begin to rise, adding further impetus to taking action now.

In the buy-to-let space, while the figures do not touch on this directly, rates have seen similar reductions. Product numbers have also increased as lenders are keen to get more borrowers on their books. Therefore, property investors seeking new additions to their portfolio or looking to reassess their finances are also likely to benefit from the current landscape.

If you want any help from the Red Squirrel team, we can put you in touch with trustworthy and experienced independent mortgage advisors, who can help find the right deal for you.