Stephen Perkins's Media Coverage

MoneyWeek

Whether you’re buying a home, remortgaging or you’re a buy-to-let landlord, we look at the outlook for 2026.

MoneyWeek

Whether you’re buying a home, remortgaging or you’re a buy-to-let landlord, we look at the outlook for 2026.

Daily Express

That dream rate could cost you big

InYourArea

Act quickly if you’re looking for a new mortgage

Daily Mirror

A broker said that it was never more important to be ready

The Guardian

Treasury officials consider shake-up that could see tax paid by sellers of homes worth more than £500,000

The Sun

THE Bank of England is widely expected to hold interest rates this week, in a blow to first-time buyers and homeowners.

The Sun

MAJOR lenders have been slashing mortgage rates as banks react to Donald Trump’s trade tariffs. Mortgage brokers have told The Sun it’s possible we could now see a “full-blown rat…

The Mirror

The average home in England now costs 8.6 times a typical households’ income - with many areas now “unaffordable” for millions of people - leaving a “financial Everest they need to climb”

Financial Times

Office for National Statistics data highlights property market pressures

The Telegraph

Once tipped to revolutionise the market, long-term loans fail to take off closer to home

Sky News

Welcome to Money, where we bring you the latest personal finance and consumer news - and the fallout from the budget. Listen to Politics at Jack and Sam’s for a budget debrief as you scroll.

The Telegraph

The average UK house price has come within a whisker of a new record high as homeowners raced to sell up ahead of expected tax rises in the Budget.

Financial Times

UK house prices rose at their fastest annual pace for two years in September, as falling mortgage rates boost the property market.

Moneyweek

Shares in UK property portal Rightmove have soared on news of a possible takeover attempt. What does it mean for investors?

The Sun

UK HOUSE prices rose annually by 2.4% in August and are now increasing at the fastest rate since December 2022. This means the typical home is around £6,000 more expensive than what it was this tim…

The Mirror

The mortgage price war has intensified with Barclays launching the UK’s cheapest home loan at 3.84 percent as banks and building societies battle to attract homebuyers

The Sun

TWO major banks are slashing mortgage rates as the Bank of England (BoE) gears up to make a major interest rate decision tomorrow. NatWest and Virgin Money are both cutting home loan deals by up to…

The Mirror

This week alone Barclays, Halifax, First Direct, Nationwide and Virgin Money have all announced changes to their home deals while last week HSBC, Yorkshire Building Society, and Santander also lowered...

inews.co.uk

Labour have said that first-time buyers could use the state as a guarantor for their mortgages under a ‘Freedom to Buy’ scheme

The Sun

HOMEOWNERS have been handed a fresh boost as three major lenders gear up to slash mortgage rates. TSB, Barclays and HSBC are all cutting rates on home loans by up to 0.45% from tomorrow. TSB is dro…

This Is Money

Lenders continue to increase interest on their home loans, meaning borrowers may miss out on the cheapest deals unless they act quickly.

The Sun

BORROWERS are being hit with a “hurricane of rises” as almost half a dozen lenders prepare to hike mortgage rates. NatWest, Accord, HSBC, The Co-Operative Bank and Barclays have all ann…

Daily Mirror

New figures released this week paint a difficult picture for tenants

Surrey Live

Santander has launched a deal with Octopus Energy

Chronicle Live

Santander has launched a deal with Octopus Energy

Daily Mirror

Brokers from across the UK have analysed the direction of travel

Daily Express

Vacancies are now at their lowest level since 2014, excluding the pandemic

Daily Express

The figures will provide some much-needed reassurance to households

Daily Mirror

The Renters’ Rights Act came in earlier this year

AOL.com

The Renters’ Rights Act came in earlier this year

Daily Mirror

Experts have explained the detail behind it

AOL.com

Experts have explained the detail behind it

Daily Express

Experts have given a summary of how things stand

The Sun

NATIONWIDE Building Society has become the first major lender to cut mortgage rates after weeks of increases across the market.

Sky News

Nationwide has cut its mortgage rates by up to 0.19% today.

Introducer Today

House price growth slowed in July as higher mortgage rates tempered buyer demand, despite continued resilience across the market. – Higher mortgage rates impact house price growth

Birmingham Live

Changes from Tuesday

AOL

Things are really up and down at the moment

Daily Mirror

Things are really up and down at the moment

AOL.com

Experts have reacted to the latest figures

Birmingham Live

The building society, the UK’s biggest, says annual house price growth slowed to 1.8% in July.

Daily Mirror

Experts have reacted to the latest figures

Daily Mirror

Santander followed Halifax earlier this week

AOL.com

Experts have explained that it is ‘where the market is heading’

Daily Mirror

Experts have explained that it is ‘where the market is heading’

AOL.com

Andy Burnham has hinted at council tax reform as Labour MPs stepped up calls for action.

Daily Express

Andy Burnham has hinted at council tax reform as Labour MPs stepped up calls for action.

Sky News

Reports that Andy Burnham is looking to axe stamp duty have been dismissed by Number 10, much to the disappointment of property experts.

Daily Express

Mortgage experts say the levy has ‘no place in a modern housing market’

AOL.com

An expert has warned against holding off for ‘the perfect time’

Birmingham Live

Extra borrowing power for those using Octopus Zero Bills initiative

Daily Mail (Print)

Mortgage rates saw their biggest spike this week since the beginning of the war in Iran

AOL.com

The bank ‘deserves genuine credit’ says one expert

Cambridgeshire Live

Santander has launched a deal with Octopus Energy

Wales Online

Santander has launched a deal with Octopus Energy

North Wales Live

Santander has launched a deal with Octopus Energy

Daily Express

Nice one

Thisismoney

Mortgage rates are spiking as five mortgage lenders upped their pricing in the last 24 hours in response to the escalating conflict in Iran.

Daily Express

Sounds helpful, but don’t get carried away

Daily Express

The triple hit comes as fears grow over a fresh escalation in the Middle East

The Sun

ANOTHER major lender has launched a 100% mortgage this week to first time buyers struggling to get on the ladder – but experts say you should beware of the risks.

The i Paper

A small number of prospective homeowners are taking out short mortgages of 20 years or less in the hope of financial independence- but is it really worth it?

FT Adviser

A credit checking company has removed questions about client goals following concerns they could potentially poach clients from mortgage brokers.

FT Adviser

There have been mixed reviews from mortgage brokers on the “brand refresh” of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries.

FT Adviser

An update from credit checking company Checkmyfile, following concerns it was “poaching” clients, has been welcomed by brokers.

North Wales Live

NatWest has introduced a significant new offer

Daily Express

All right for some.

Daily Mirror

NatWest has introduced new changes for some lenders

Teeside Live

NatWest has introduced a significant new offer

Cambridge News

NatWest has introduced a significant new offer

Birmingham Live

Santander did the same yesterday

Daily Express

Blink and it’s gone

Liverpool Echo

Halifax has also given an update and others are predicted to follow

Lancs Live

Halifax has also given an update and others are predicted to follow

Cambridge Live

Halifax has also given an update and others are predicted to follow

Daily Star

Halifax also gave an update on Monday afternoon

Teeside Live

Halifax has also given an update and others are predicted to follow

Birmingham Live

It comes after a recent update regarding the conflict in the Middle East

Express.co.uk

This is going to sting

Daily Mirror

Halifax also gave an update on Monday afternoon

Get Surrey

Halifax has also given an update and others are predicted to follow

Daily Mirror

Savvy people can have ‘best of both worlds’

Express.co.uk

Mortgage rates have risen sharply amid Middle East tensions

Daily Mirror

These changes form part of a broader hit for borrowers as lenders across the board ramp up mortgage rates

Express.co.uk

The changes are part of a wider blow for borrowers

Birmingham Live

Services showed no growth, production fell by 0.1%, and construction grew by 0.2% in January 2026

Freelance Informer

Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax becomes mandatory on 6 April 2026 for anyone with a qualifying income over £50,000.

Express.co.uk

“Awareness is still incredibly low” among individuals affected, experts have said.

what MORTGAGE

2026 is set to be a ‘booming’ year for the mortgage market thanks to falling rates and an ‘abundance’ of deals for borrowers to choose from.

GB News

Homebuyers now have access to more mortgage options than at any point in almost two decades, according to new industry data.

Birmingham Live

“Now is an excellent time to buy or move,” one broker said

Express.co.uk

Britain’s unemployment rate rose to its highest level for nearly five years in the three months to October, the ONS said.

Thisismoney

Finally, some good news. Data published this morning showed that inflation has edged down from 3.8 per cent, falling to 3.6 per cent in the twelve months to October.

FT Adviser

Both primary and secondary school pupils will learn more about the fundamentals of money, as part of a revitalised curriculum.

Express.co.uk

The unemployment rate has hit its highest level in over four years, ONS figures show.

This Is Money

Average mortgage rates are on the rise for the first time in eight months, as lenders exercise caution ahead of possible tax rises in November’s Budget.

Express.co.uk

Property experts have warned homebuyers that “the devil is in the detail”.

Estate Agent Today

HSBC has increased its loan-to-income (LTI) ratio for first-time buyers.

Daily Telegraph

Mortgage brokers raised the alarm that Rachel Reeves’s upcoming Budget could disrupt the housing market.

Financial Times

UK lenders approved the most mortgages for six months in July...

This Is Money

I’m looking to buy my first home. If I buy a flat with a share of the freehold, what are the potential pros, cons and costs involved?

FT Adviser

The “assault of successive governments on landlords continues” after rumours Rachel Reeves may apply national insurance to

Express.co.uk

Critics argue hikes to capital gains tax (CGT) risk punishing long-term savers and destabilising the housing market rather than raising sustainable revenue.

The Independent

The chancellor is reportedly planning to levy capital gains on the sale of first properties

London World

A property expert has said homeowners in London and the South East will be hit hardest by Rachel Reeves' proposed mansion tax

This Is Money

In the latest furore over Labour’s plans for property taxes, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reported to be considering taxing some of those who sell their home and make a profit.

Express.co.uk

Analysts have noted that bankruptcy rates have dipped only because many struggling households cannot even afford the court fees associated with going bust.

FTAdviser

Rumours the government is considering a new property tax to replace stamp duty have been branded an “attack on homeowners”.

Birmingham Live

The local property tax could replace council tax within two Parliaments

Daily Mail

The Chancellor has been accused of seeking to ‘punish people’ for making sacrifices to buy their own homes.

Express.co.uk

The housing market “could change forever” if the rumoured tax were to go ahead, warn experts.

Birmingham Live

Mortgage possession claims are up 22% when compared to the same quarter in 2024

Small Business UK

Find out how to verify your identity with Companies House as a director or PSC before the deadline kicks in on November 18, 2025

Business Matters

From 18 November 2025, all UK company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity, in a major Companies House reform to curb fraud and phoenixing.

Express.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE: Business leaders have given their views after it was revealed the UK’s jobless rate is up again - and they didn’t hold back.

Chronicle Live

Nationwide, Barclays and Skipton Building Society have all unveiled rate cuts this week, as competition heats up across the high street. The cuts come as mortgage rates are tumbling across the market,...

Express.co.uk

The 1.5 million new homes target “certainly won’t be achieved in this political term”, said Stephen Perkins, managing director at Yellow Brick Mortgages.

Leicestershire Live

A summer mortgage price war is now in full swing

Yorkshire Live

Banks have slashed rates

Express.co.uk

Nationwide, Barclays and Skipton Building Society have all unveiled rate cuts this week

Birmingham Live

Nationwide, the UK’s biggest building society, is rolling out new switcher and additional borrowing rates.

The Independent

Stock markets updates and business news from Tuesday

FTAdviser

Advisers at Openwork now require pre-approval on debt consolidation cases before giving advice, which advisers have warned could see borrowers ‘go elsewhere’.

Express.co.uk

Mortgage experts are divided over a digital tool which promises to speed up mortgage applications over fears

Sky News

A new online mortgage lender tool could have "dangerous" consequences, brokers have warned.

Birmingham Live

3.79% headline rate is market-leading

Express.co.uk

Industry experts say the move could help jolt the housing market back to life after a slowdown in mortgage approvals

What Mortgage

Mortgage rates are falling lower as Halifax announced price cuts which included a deal at 3.79%.

Moneyweek

The Financial Conduct Authority has recorded a fall in complaints across banking, pensions and investments. How does your provider compare?

The Independent

Interest rates remain in flux in the UK but are likely to change this year - here’s how it might affect your pocket

This Is Money

Several mortgage lenders have made reductions amid the tariff turmoil, but brokers warn that these may be short-lived.

The Guardian

Bank is largest UK lender to cut rates in apparent response to turbulence, and experts predict others will follow

London Property News

Amid all the ongoing market turmoil, Coventry Building Society has today gone sub-4% on a 2-year fixed rate (at 65% LTV with a £999 fee). The lender is reducing all…

Express.co.uk

Homeowners could see ‘much needed relief’ as mortgage rates are expected to fall.

Daily Mirror

President Trump’s tariffs bombshells - which keep on coming - have unsettled financial markets but there could be benefits for millions of UK households

FTAdviser

A number of UK mortgage lenders have announced rate cuts as swap rates improve as a result of the recent Trump tariffs.

Express.co.uk

Stock markets may be experiencing a period of turmoil but experts claim it may also be an ideal time for Brits to reset their finances.

Wisbech Standard

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Express.co.uk

A mortgage lender said it was reducing its rates as a result of US President Donald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs.

North Wales Pioneer

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Western Telegraph

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

FTAdviser

Trump’s tariffs “may be single-handedly rescuing the UK housing market” after SONIA swap rates tumbled following the president’s ‘liberation day’ announcement.

Cumnock Chronicle

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Gazette & Herald

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

The Herald

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Islington Gazette

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Eastern Daily Press

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Wandsworth Times

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Swindon Advertiser

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

York Press

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Wymondham & Attleborough Mercury

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

Northwich Guardian

In an unexpected twist, President Trump’s tariffs may inadvertently help UK buyers by lowering mortgage rates

CNBC

U.K. house prices fell for the first time in nine months in December, as the Budget and higher mortgage rates dampened a recent flurry of homebuyer activity.

Lancs Live

The fall in inflation was largely driven by lower clothing prices, particularly in women’s fashion

Devon Live

The fall in inflation was largely driven by lower clothing prices, particularly in women’s fashion

London Business News

Discover the impact of ‘The anti-business Budget is starting to bite’ on UK companies, marking a significant drop in registrations.

Birmingham Live

Halifax is the latest lender to announce rate cuts, which will go live from tomorrow, Friday 7 March.

Yahoo News

Mortgage rates continue to be cut by lenders as competition warms up and swap rates fall slightly.

Express.co.uk

A shock rise in inflation, up from 2.5%, has rattled markets

FTAdviser

Low level parking fines are affecting some people’s credit scores and causing them to pay more for their mortgage, brokers have found.

News and Star

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

Southend Echo

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

Eastern Daily Press

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

Hexham Courant

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

The Bolton News

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

Bradford Telegraph and Argus

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

Times Series

Lloyds Bank and Halifax customers have been urged ‘do not make repeat payments’ after banking app issues

FTAdviser

Issues with several banking apps over the past few days show how much technology is relied upon, brokers have said.

FTAdviser

With UK gilt yields recently spiking, many prospective homebuyers are asking whether it’s time to panic.

FTAdviser

Santander “could be playing a dangerous game” as reports emerge the major bank is considering leaving the UK.

Birmingham Live

One broker warned this is “likely aimed at the government following last week’s deregulation announcement” but added — “it could backfire”.

Nerd Wallet

Knowing the cheapest places in the UK to rent can be a good starting point if you’re looking for somewhere affordable to live. Here’s where rents are lowest right now.

Express.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE: Kundan Bhaduri said it was time for the Chancellor, the Prime Minister “and the rest of this bumbling Labour circus to exit stage left - before the British public hurls them out”.

Business Matters

Traders are increasingly betting on a significant drop in the pound as concerns mount over the Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s ability to stick to her fiscal targets following a sharp rise in borrowing costs.

Property Soup

Westminster Council is seeking to outlaw “For Sale” signs across the borough, citing their visual impact and declining relevance in the digital property market. If approved by the Ministry of Housing,...

Birmingham Live

The bank has not given details of what these cuts will be, but said it will apply to residential and buy-to-let (BTL) deals

Express.co.uk

The high street giant has issued new interest rates on fixed rate deals running for two, five and 10 years.

Express.co.uk

News last week that the UK economy has shrunk for two months in a row has triggered fears of a recession.

Express.co.uk

Rising inflation meant the prospect of a cut in interest rates now seems remote, says Andrew Montlake, Managing Director at Coreco.

Birmingham Live

Jobcentre reform will be at the centre of the Labour Party government’s plans to “get Britain working again”, it has emerged today.

Express.co.uk

A number of banks and building societies have raised interest rates on fixed rate mortgages in recent days

What Mortgage

Forecasts the Bank of England is to cut interest rates from 5% to 4.75% on Thursday remain despite jitters following last week’s Budget.

Introducer Today

Consensus remains that the Bank of England will cut rates by 0.25%

FTAdviser

Lenders have 'no right' to question the fees charged by brokers, many in the industry have argued after one broker was told to lower his fees.

Proactive Investors

Two banks had different reactions after the Budget, with Virgin Money nudging up mortgage rates and Santander reducing the price of borrowing.

FTAdviser

Virgin Money has increased its mortgage rates following the Autumn Budget.

Sharecast

UK mortgage approvals have climbed to their highest level since before 2022’s disastrous mini Budget, official data showed on Tuesday.

FTAdviser

Customers accessing their health records via the NHS mobile app could be “a game changer” for the protection market, New Leaf Distribution managing director, Daniel Hobbs, has said.

Proactive Investors

Lloyds Banking Group PLC and Barclays PLC have followed NatWest in hiking mortgage rates, despite expectations that Bank of England will lower borrowing costs over the next two months.

FTAdviser

More2life has launched the UK’s first and only lifetime mortgage with no early repayment charges.

CityAM

House prices rose to their highest level since June 2022, but the Autumn budget could derail the positive momentum.

Manchester Evening News

A number of lenders are also introducing a raft of mega mortgages that will allow first-time buyers to borrow up to six times their salary

Birmingham Live

A “cliff edge” approach to stamp duty could see bills skyrocket to a staggering £6,250 - and it is feared households only have a couple of months left to act.

GB News

First-time buyers face a potential £6,250 tax hike unless changes are announced in the upcoming Autumn Budget.

Express.co.uk

Just today, Halifax and The Mortgage Works(TMW) joined rivals, including Nationwide and Barclays, in cutting rates

FTAdviser

Nationwide is to let first-time buyers borrow up to six times their earnings, while also cutting mortgage rates by up to 0.31 per cent.

CityAM

House prices grew at their fastest annual rate in nearly two years in August, boosted by interest rates being cut and a stabilising economy.

Nottinghamshire Live

The flurry of price cuts comes amid growing optimism that interest rates are set to remain at record lows for the foreseeable future

Birmingham Live

The flurry of price cuts comes amid growing optimism that interest rates are set to remain at record lows for the foreseeable future

Express.co.uk

NatWest, Barclays and HSBC are reducing the prices on new home loans both for buyers and people looking to remortgage.

The Sun

BORROWERS can benefit from lower mortgage bills as major lenders slash rates – but with costs set to come down even further, should you fix now or hang on a bit longer? Barclays, HSBC, Nation…

This Is Money

The Bank of England recorded 62,000 approvals for house purchases in July, the highest total since the disastrous mini-Budget in late 2022.

Express.co.uk

There were 62,000 home loan approvals in July as falls in interest rates made monthly repayments more affordable.

Derbyshire Live

Virgin Money has made a series of positive changes to its residential purchase mortgage range, with rates being reduced by up to 0.20 percent

This Is Money

First-time buyers could now be able to secure bigger mortgages when applying with Halifax.

Birmingham Live

The Lloyds group, which includes the Halifax, will also allow young buyers to borrow up to 5.5 times their income which means they will need smaller deposits

Express.co.uk

Rising house prices, the cost of living squeeze, high interest rates and affordability challenges mean conditions are the most difficult in 70 years for first time buyers.

Express.co.uk

The provider has also made a series of changes to remortgage and buy-to-let options

Express.co.uk

House prices are steadily rising, but tenants are experiencing “the real pain” as rental costs continue to climb.

This is Money

Major lenders continue to reduce their mortgage rates on a daily basis, with Nationwide set to launch a new market best-buy tomorrow.

Evening Standard

Cheaper home loans expected to fuel a bouyant property market in the autumn

The Mirror

A number of Barclays mortgage products have seen interest rates cut to below four percent for the first time in months, following the Bank of England’s base rate decision last week

Sky News

Barclays is making cuts to a selection of products across its residential purchase, remortgage and reward ranges from tomorrow.

This Is Money

HSBC became the third lender to reintroduce a sub-4 per cent five-year fixed deal, following mortgage rate cuts by Nationwide and NatWest in recent days.

Proactive Investors

Barclays has cut the rates on several of its main mortgage products, including some below 4%.

Express.co.uk

Further cuts are expected in the coming days which are predicted to trigger a rush to buy through the rest of this year.

FTAdviser

Introducing a hardship test for landlords will force many good landlords to flee the rental sector, some brokers have warned.

Express.co.uk

The interest rates at which financial institutions lend money to each other - so-called SWAP - rates have come down in the last few days.

London Property News

Following the Base Rate cut on Thursday, swap rates have improved across the market. Both 2- and 5-year swap rates have dropped circa 9bps and are now around the 3.7%…

Bristol Live

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted 5-4 in favour of a quarter-point reduction in the base rate - the first time it has been cut in more than four years

WalesOnline

The Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee voted 5-4 in favour of a quarter-point reduction in the base rate - the first time it has been cut in more than four years

Express.co.uk

It is hoped the move will bring down the cost of borrowing for those carrying mortgages, credit card debt and other loans.

FTAdviser

Smaller mortgage lenders have been praised by brokers for providing innovation in the sector.

Introducer Today

Tomorrow’s Interest Rate Decision - stick or drop?

Yorkshire Live

Natwest and Virgin Money is trimming rates on new business fixed products in welcome boost

Sky News

Natwest and Virgin Money have announced reductions to their range of fixed rates accounts ahead of the Bank of England's interest rate decision tomorrow.

Birmingham Live

Virgin is also launching a number of exclusive deals for those looking to remortgage.

FTAdviser

Brokers have claimed that transaction times are currently “the longest experienced in over 20 years in the industry".

Sky News

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Share your thoughts on any of the stories we cover in the box below.

Express.co.uk

In the past, parents might have acted as guarantors for the mortgages of adult children - however, these new schemes go much further.

Yorkshire Live

There is a new way to get a mortgage that could help you buy a bigger house

Moneyweek

Self-assessment taxpayers have until the end of July to pay the latest instalment of their tax return bill, but is the charge fair. Marc Shoffman explains why this is hurting self-employed people

Sky News

New mortgage deal allows friends, parents and even aunties/uncles to help you get loan

Sky News

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment with your thoughts below.

Birmingham Live

The high street bank is not alone in shaking up its mortgage criterIa and eligibility, either, with Halifax, First Direct, Nationwide and Virgin Money also making changes.

This Is Money

Barclays has upped the ante in the mortgage price war that is currently playing out between banks and building societies.

FTAdviser

Cancellation fees on mortgages charged by some brokers are 'diabolical' and do not adhere to consumer duty.

FTAdviser

Green mortgages can "hugely support"; first-time buyers by offering financial incentives to keep costs down, according to Alex Dowling, head of sales and marketing at David Wilson Southern Counties.

Sky News

While our previous post may suggest a potential bump in the road ahead, things look more promising on the high street - with Nationwide and Virgin just announcing mortgage rate cuts.

FTAdviser

The first lender to offer capped rate mortgages will “make an absolute killing”, Orchard Financial Advisers managing director, Ben Perks, has said.

This is Money

Barclays, HSBC and Yorkshire Building Society have all reduced their mortgage rates, following Santander and Halifax earlier this week.

Express.co.uk

The reductions follow a number of small cuts by other lenders in recent days, such as Halifax, Santander and NatWest.

GB News

The UK’s mortgage price war is heating up as two of the country’s biggest lenders slash interest rates even further.

Sky News

Santander has become the latest lender to announce cuts across a range of its mortgage products.

This is Money

Two more big banks have announced mortgage rate cuts in the latest downward shift for home loan pricing.

Birmingham Live

The high street bank has confirmed new rates which brokers say will kick off a war among high street banks.

Express.co.uk

Industry experts say this latest move has the potential to ramp up a rates battle between Britain’s biggest lenders.

Express.co.uk

The reductions come despite the fact the Bank of England refused to cut the base rate from its 16 year high of 5.25 percent last week.

Express.co.uk

There is some pessimism that the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will answer the call to cut the cost of borrowing and mortgages when it announces its decision tomorrow.

Introducer Today

Explore the effects of rising mortgage rates on the housing market.

FTAdviser

Hybrid working has become a staple of financial services since the pandemic, and while research points to the many positives

Express.co.uk

Mortgage brokers have slammed the increases, questioning whether they are justified.

Birmingham Live

TSB has increased rates across their residential and BTL ranges by up to 0.35%

London Business News

Stay updated on the latest interest rate projections amidst inflation concerns. Find out if the Bank of England will hold rates steady this winter.

Introducer Today

Labour’s ‘Freedom To Buy’ initiative faces scepticism from the industry.

The Negotiator

Labour it would change the existing mortgage guarantee scheme into a permanent fixture if it wins the election, but leading brokers are unimpressed.

Sharecast

House prices were largely unchanged last month, industry data showed on Friday, as the market continued to stabilise.

Yahoo Finance

The average UK home was worth £288,688 in May, says Halifax

FTAdviser

Gen H's tool to address credit search transparency has been hailed as a “mortgage market game-changer” by brokers.

FTAdviser

Brokers have called out the Liberal Democrats’ for “stating the obvious to borrowers”as part of its latest research, after saying many would face mortgage rate hikes before the election.

Newspage News

“Lib Dems? Who are they?” - Bob Singh, Chess Mortgages.

Express.co.uk

The situation is so serious that brokers are urging City watchdogs at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to take an urgent look at the issue.

Express.co.uk

Mortgage possession actions against home buyers in the first three months of this year were the highest since 2019 with a total of 5,182.

AOL

HSBC and Barclays fire the starting gun on what some advisers predict will be a new mortgage price war

This Is Money

Average mortgage rates have been on the increase since the start of February - and mortgage brokers say today’s announcements could mark a change in direction.

Yahoo Finance

HSBC and Barclays fire the starting gun on what some advisers predict will be a new mortgage price war

Evening Standard

HSBC and Barclays fire the starting gun on what some advisers predict will be a new mortgage price war

The Intermediary

The latest official jobs data is out and showed, among other things, that the UK unemployment rate was estimated at 4.3% in January to March 2024, above estimates of a year ago, and increased in the latest...

Mortgage Solutions

The rise in cost to register a limited company will not deter lanldords choosing this route as the upfront cost is “minor”, brokers have said.

Yahoo News

These rate changes are effective from tomorrow, Wednesday 8 May.

Share Talk

Santander UK has announced a second increase in fixed mortgage rates in under a week. Joining other lenders like Nationwide and NatWest that have raised fixed mortgage rates this week,

Proactive Investors

Evening Standard

Lenders have been increasing mortgage rates again as the bank of England’s first cut appears further away than previously hoped

This Is Money

A number of best buys have disappeared from the market, meaning the lowest rates available to borrowers have ticked up.

Yahoo! News

UK house prices fell unexpectedly for the second month in a row in April, as prospective homeowners continue to be hit with higher mortgage rates.

The Telegraph

House prices fell for a second month in a row as mortgage lenders put up rates, according to a closely-watched survey.

Sharecast

Mortgage approvals continued to rise in March, official data released on Tuesday showed, to reach an 18-month high.

Introducer Today

Bank of England Base Rate Cut - when will it happen?

The Telegraph

House prices suffered a decline as mortgage approvals remain below pre-pandemic levels, according to a closely watched survey.

Express.co.uk

Rising mortgage arrears, personal and business failures have sounded alarm bells among brokers, banks and building societies.

Sky News

Skipton Building Society has announced it will be increasing some of its mortgage rates from next week - with the move facing some criticism. It comes after the Bank of England opted to keep interest rates...

Bridging & commercial

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) has fallen to 3.4% in the 12 months to February 2024, down from 4% in January, the lowest it has been since September...

The Intermediary

Atom bank has announced that it is increasing its mortgage rates as of tomorrow (Thursday 21st March).

Sky News

UK inflation fell to 3.4% in February - a bigger than expected drop that has been followed by NatWest cutting mortgage rates. Read this and all the latest personal finance and consumer news below - and...

The Intermediary

The changes will come into effect from tomorrow (21st March 2024).

Sharecast

UK house prices dipped only marginally in January, official data showed on Wednesday, providing more hope that the market was stabilising.

The Intermediary

A spokesperson said: “Dr. Mann will continue to hold the post until 31 August 2027.”

The Intermediary

The number of registered company insolvencies in February 2024 was 2,102, 17% higher than in the same month in the previous year.

Express.co.uk

The total number of insolvencies reached 10,136 in February compared to 8,239 in the same month last year.

Birmingham Live

Britain's biggest mortgage lender is reducing the maximum age at which it will allow many borrowers to say they intend to retire from 75 to 70.

Express.co.uk

The move by Halifax has been branded “outrageous” and goes against evidence about working habits during the cost-of-living crisis.

The Intermediary

Across its remortgage products including large loans, Affordable Housing – Shared Equity/ Shared Ownership and equivalent green home products, the lender will be introducing rate increases up to 0.17%...

The Intermediary

In its residential range, the lender will be withdrawing all of its fixed rates at 80% loan-to-value (LTV) for new borrowers.

The Intermediary

Real GDP was estimated to have fallen by 0.1% in the three months to January 2024, compared with the three months to October 2023.

The Intermediary

In light of labour market data, Newspage asked experts when the Bank of England should cut the base rate — and if a cut may now come sooner.

Moneyweek

Mortgage rates have seen their biggest drop since 2022 following a January pricing war. But rate cuts are now starting to slow. What’s going on with mortgage rates?

Express.co.uk

Halifax has warned customers applying for mortgages about potential increases of up to 0.2 percent.

Birmingham Live

Newspage asked mortgage brokers for their reaction to this, and why the mortgage market has started this week on such a dour note.

Birmingham Live

From Tuesday March 12, Santander says it is increasing residential fixed and tracker rates in the new business and product transfer ranges.

FTAdviser

Lenders withdrawing rates with only a couple of hours’ notice is “not fair on consumers or on brokers” and goes against consumer duty, according to brokers.

The Intermediary

The UK housing market sees a steady start to 2024 with a consistent rise in house prices, as industry experts call for interest rate cuts to sustain growth and support homebuyers.

Sky News

A typical home in the UK now costs £291,699 after prices rose for the fifth month in a row.

Mortgage Solutions

Mortgage brokers are assuring borrowers that mortgage rates are not everything, meaning most don’t have a narrow-minded view on pricing, advisers say.

Sky News

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, cost of living advice and the latest on the economy. We’ll be back with live updates on Monday but for now you can read our weekend features, and submit...

Financial Times

Please use the sharing tools found via the share button at the top or side of articles. Copying articles to share with others is a breach of FT.com T&Cs and Copyright Policy. Email licensing@ft.com to...

The Intermediary

The average house price was recorded at £260,420, compared to a slightly lower figure of £257,656 in January.

The Telegraph

House prices returned to growth for the first time in more than a year and are approaching their record high, according to a lender, as mortgage approvals surged.

Birmingham Live

It marked the first month since January 2023 that Nationwide recorded positive annual growth in house prices.

Mortgage Solutions

Interest in new-build is on the rise at the moment, with lenders needing to be more innovative in order to support new-build buyers.

London Property News

Coventry has just announced it is increasing fixed rates, from tomorrow night. Newspage asked brokers for their views. Coventry are increasing “all fixed rates” and they will close “all offset…

Yahoo Finance

Move follows similar increases from HSBC and Santander as lenders fear interest cuts will be slower than expected.

Evening Standard

Move follows similar increases from HSBC and Santander as lenders fear interest cuts will be slower than expected.

Sky News

A mortgage that could see people paying less than 1% interest initially for a new home has received a mixed response. Read this and more in the Money blog, your place for consumer and economic news. Comment...

The Intermediary - Latest UK mortgage news

Newspage asked a selection of financial services experts how they would you rate the Bank of England’s performance over the past two to three years

Bloomberg

UK house prices rose for the first time in four months at the end of 2023, according to official data that affirms recent industry surveys pointing to the property market turning the corner.

Financial Times

Lender’s data adds to signs of stabilisation in property market as mortgage rates ease

Evening Standard

Prices were up 2.5% year-on-year, but in London they were slightly down on January 2023

The Intermediary

Newspage asked mortgage brokers for their thoughts on this move by two significant lenders.

Birmingham Live

This continues a common trend last week with other high street lenders.

The Sunday Times

First-time buyers keen to escape rising rents may find that a cheeky offer made to a buy-to-let owner may be more than welcome, says George Nixon

FTAdviser

Brokers have questioned how the government expects households to cope with increased mortgage costs if minsters themselves are struggling.

This Is Money

Government data showed the number of sites where building work started on site was 21,300, down 68% between 1 July and 30 September, compared to the same point a year ago.

Financial Reporter

The goverment is reportedly planning to introduce the new scheme in the Spring Budget.

Evening Standard

Mortgage market had been waiting for the first big move in weeks from Britain’s biggest building society

Yahoo Finance

Mortgage market had been waiting for the first big move in weeks from Britain’s biggest building society

CityAM

Brokers have warned that the government could push up house prices even further if it guarantees mortgages for first-time buyers with one per cent deposits.

The Telegraph

Households at ‘breaking point’ as they struggle to keep pace with interest rate rises

The Independent

Mortgage defaults expected to get ‘even worse’ over the coming months as high interest rates pile ‘immense’ pressure on households

Australian Financial Review

There are signs rental inflation is easing, which is good news for tenants. Landlords, meanwhile, are making changes to reduce the impact of higher mortgage costs.

Bloomberg

London rental-price inflation cooled for the first time in two years, providing relief to tenants who have faced a record rise in costs and a dwindling supply of available houses.

BNN Bloomberg

London rental-price inflation cooled for the first time in two years, providing relief to tenants who have faced a record rise in costs and a dwindling supply of available houses.

Yahoo Finance

The average London home has lost £26,000 in value in just two months, according to official data

Evening Standard

The average London home has lost £26,000 in value in just two months, according to official data

Moneyweek

Increasing numbers of landlords are running buy-to-let portfolios in a company structure to manage higher mortgage rates. We explain the pros and cons

The Independent

Top mortgage broker says major lenders are now engaged in a price war as rates dip below 4 per cent

FTAdviser

The mortgage market may see “sub 3 per cent rates” by the end of the year, according to some brokers. 

The Independent

Goldman Sachs says faster-than-expected fall in borrowing costs will ease the pain for millions

CityAM

It is not “that difficult” for first time buyers to get on the housing ladder, the chair of Natwest Sir Howard Davies has claimed.

Evening Standard

Lib Dem Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney MP said: “This is laughable. What planet is he living on?”

Yahoo Finance

First Direct and TSB were among the latest lenders cutting rates

Evening Standard

First Direct and TSB were among the latest lenders cutting rates

FTAdviser

When leaving our corporate roles to set up our own mortgage brokerage we wanted to ensure that we gave back to our community, to charities and the environment with every transaction.

CityAM

House prices in the UK fell 1.8 per cent over the course of 2023, according to the latest data from the Nationwide House Price Index.

The Intermediary

The Nationwide Building Society’s house price index for 2023 shows a 1.8% decrease in UK house prices compared to the previous year.

Bloomberg

UK house prices finished 2023 little changed from a year ago, defying predictions for a sharp downturn, figures from one of the biggest mortgage lenders indicated.

The Intermediary

Brokers have accused the Bank of England of strangling the UK economy as new data shows that GDP shrank in the third quarter of the year.

Express.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE: Business leaders say confidence in the BoE’s ability to manage UK Plc is at an all time low.

The Intermediary

Approximately 2,466 companies registered for insolvency throughout November.

The Intermediary

Brokers debate whether reverting to a three-month window for Product Transfers will work better for the industry.

The Intermediary

In addition, around four in 10 (40%) adults reported that affording their rent or mortgage payments remained very, or somewhat, difficult.

Sharecast

The number of homes sold the in the UK fell sharply in October, official data showed on Thursday.

The Intermediary

November witnessed a 0.2% increase in UK house prices, the most significant annual improvement since February 2023.

Birmingham Live

Across the UK, the average property cost £258,557 in November.

Birmingham Live

The headline grabbers, brokers said, were with Barclays, which revealed a 5-year fixed rate purchase mortgage

FTAdviser

The rate war drum is now becoming louder by the day, Contractor Mortgage Services director, Ken James, has said following recent rate reductions from both NatWest and Halifax.

The Intermediary

HMRC’s latest statistics show a downturn in UK residential property transactions in October 2023 compared to last year, while non-residential transactions saw a modest increase from September.

Financial Reporter

NatWest is now offering a residential two-year fixed remortgage from 4.87%.

The Intermediary

NatWest now offering a 2-year fixed remortgage from 4.87%.

FTAdviser

The mortgage guarantee scheme has been extended by 18 months to June 2025 from December 2023, following an announcement by Jeremy Hunt in the Autumn Statement today (November 22).

The Intermediary

From tomorrow, Thursday, 23rd November, Nationwide will reduce selected mortgage rates by up to 0.43%.

Birmingham Live

This includes rates across their New Business, Switcher, Additional Borrowing, Existing Customers Moving Home and Tracker product ranges, the UK’s largest building society said.

The Intermediary

Brokers welcomed the news and said it should boost the property market as the year draws to a close.

Birmingham Live

This morning, both HSBC and TSB announced cuts, following on from Virgin Money yesterday.

The Intermediary

Ahead of Wednesday’s CPI data, mortgage brokers have said that if inflation cools materially, the mortgage rate war will become even more fierce as lenders compete for business after a quiet year of purchase...

FTAdviser

Barclays’s announcement of the first sub-5 per cent 2-year fixed remortgage product in months will “fire up the rest of the high street”, EHF Mortgages managing director, Justin Moy,...

Mortgage Solutions

The intermediary market has been a ‘cottage industry’ for too long, with consolidation among advice firms inevitable and necessary, brokers have argued.

Mortgage Professional

A visit to mortgage broker changed the course of his working life

London Property News

Barclays has just announced the first sub-5% 2-year fixed remortgage product for months, which will go live on Friday. Brokers said it would fire up the rest of the High…

The Intermediary

Brokers say that some banks will not alert borrowers to a cheaper rate should one become available before they complete.

Mortgage Professional

High street lender to slash as much as 30bps on purchase and remortgage two-year fixes

Mortgage Solutions

The revolving door of the housing minister is actively harming the sector, holding back the chances of building enough homes, brokers have argued.

Bloomberg

UK house prices fell for the first time in more than a decade in September, according to the Office for National Statistics, as higher mortgage rates weighed on activity.

The Business Times

UK HOUSE prices fell for the first time in more than a decade in September, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), as higher mortgage rates weighed on activity.

The Intermediary

Hot on the heels of HSBC, Halifax has announced it is reducing its mortgage rates again on Wednesday 15th November. Following the news, one broker said some rates, based on the current direction of travel,...

Mortgage Professional

Rates will be reduced by up to 46bps across the lender’s homebuyer ranges

This Is Money

Mortgage lenders continue to slash rates faster than expected, as the cheapest five-year deals edge towards 4.5%.

Eastern Daily Press

Interest in the property market might be falling across the UK, but in Norfolk, house hunters are bucking the trend.

The Intermediary

With the Treasury considering cuts to stamp duty in the Autumn Statement, or at least before a General Election, experts are divided on the move, with some welcoming it, but many more ridiculing it as...

London Property News

UK Finance has just published its mortgage arrears & possessions update for Q2 2023, showing, among other things, that there were…

Mortgage Solutions

Brokers have reported seeing substantial increases in interest in limited company buy to let from their landlord clients, and have highlighted the importance of working with tax firms who can support clients...

Sidmouth Herald

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Somerset County Gazette

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Express.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE: Small business owners have called on the Chancellor to quit, claiming Jeremy Hunt is ‘stifling growth’.

FTAdviser

Nationwide has become the first lender in months to bring a sub-5 per cent two-year fixed rate mortgage to market in what brokers have called a “watershed moment.”

The Intermediary

According to UK Finance, there were 11,540 buy-to-let mortgages in arrears of 2.5% or more of the outstanding balance in the third quarter of 2023.

Dereham Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Hillingdon Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Intermediary

Brokers have expressed their concerns around a new ‘Help to Stay’ scheme launched in Wales, with one saying “Help to Stay but of what - execution?”.

Weston Mercury

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Swindon Advertiser

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Bromsgrove Advertiser

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Leader

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Watford Observer

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Dorset Echo

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Wisbech Standard

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Wiltshire Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Southend Echo

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Ilkley Gazette

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Bicester Advertiser

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Glasgow Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

North Somerset Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Whitchurch Herald

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Central Fife Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Halesowen News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Irvine Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Hexham Courant

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Penarth Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Mirror

Halifax said house prices rose by 1.1% on average in October, compared to a fall of 0.3% in September - marking the first monthly increase since March

Moneyweek

UK house prices have gone up for the first time in six months amid supply shortages, the latest Halifax house price index shows. Are property prices rising again?

Bury Mercury

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Bolton News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Irish News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Witney Gazette

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Diss Mercury

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Barrhead News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Ilford Recorder

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Whitehaven News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Dunfermline Press

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

York Press

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Slough Observer

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Stourbridge News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Clydebank Post

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Harrow Times

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Milford Mercury

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Sudbury Mercury

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Kent Online

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Brentwood Live

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Halstead Gazette

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Ledbury Reporter

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Stirling News

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Bournemouth Echo

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Ayr Advertiser

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

The Independent

A lack of supply has strengthened prices in the short-term, mortgage providers said

Your Money

House prices rose in October, bringing an abrupt end to six straight months of falls, the latest Halifax house price index reveals.

AOL

A lack of supply has strengthened prices in the short-term, mortgage providers said

Exmouth Journal

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Royston Crow

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.

Warrington Guardian

A low supply of homes for sale is likely to have strengthened prices in the short-term, the bank said.