This article was published on 4 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

The Bank of England’s December 2025 interest rate cut marked another step away from the peak borrowing costs of the last two years. While rates are still higher than the ultra-cheap era many of us remember, the direction of travel is now much clearer.

Here’s what the latest cut means, where that leaves us in 2026, what mortgage deals look like right now and how individuals and couples can prepare to buy or sell property over the year ahead.

The December 2025 interest rate cut – the bigger picture

The December cut was the latest in a small series of reductions during 2025, following a long period where the Bank of England held rates steady to bring inflation under control.

The key points are that:

• Recent trends indicate interest rates are no longer increasing

• Rate cuts are happening, but slowly and cautiously
• We are not heading back to near-zero rates anytime soon

This matters because mortgage pricing is influenced as much by expectations of future rates as by the base rate itself. This sense of cautious reduction in interest rates is a careful balance between managing the economy and managing inflation.

Where does that leave rate cuts so far?

Through 2025, rate reductions happened in small steps rather than dramatic drops. The Bank of England has been clear it wants to avoid cutting too fast and reigniting inflation.

Lenders had already priced in these expectations months earlier, meaning:

• Many mortgage deals were improving even before December
• Borrowers have started to feel real, tangible benefits

The environment for homebuyers and home-movers is now noticeably more stable than it was just a year ago.

What’s expected for 2026?

Current market expectations point to:

• Further modest rate cuts in 2026, rather than sharp falls
• A ‘new normal’ where base rates settle higher than pre-2020 levels
• Mortgage rates becoming more stable and predictable

In practical terms:

• Mortgage rates may drift down in small, steady steps
• Volatility should reduce compared to the last few years
• Lenders are likely to compete more aggressively on pricing
• For buyers, sellers and anyone remortgaging, this means it’s now much easier to plan your next steps

What mortgage deals are available now?

Mortgage pricing has improved noticeably compared to 12–18 months ago.

Fixed-rate deals are more competitive, especially at 2- and 5-year terms, we’re seeing:

• Five‑year fixes appealing to buyers wanting long-term certainty
• Two‑year fixes chosen by those anticipating further rate drops
• More affordability flexibility from lenders
• A wider choice of products for first-time buyers, movers and re-mortgagers

What this means for buyers in 2026

If you’re planning to buy in the next 6–12 months:

1. Affordability is improving
Lower rates mean borrowing power is gradually increasing, which helps first-time buyers and movers alike

2. Competition may return
As confidence improves, more buyers will re-enter the market. That can mean more competition for good properties

3. Preparation matters more than timing
Getting ‘’mortgage‑ready’ is more important than trying to predict rate bottoms

What you should do now:

• Get a mortgage Agreement in Principle early
• Review your credit profile
• Build a realistic budget that works even if rates don’t fall much further

What this means for sellers

For sellers, improving mortgage affordability is positive news.

You can expect a larger pool of active buyers, with fewer sales falling through due to mortgage issues and gradually improving confidence. However, price growth is likely to remain modest and buyers are still value-conscious and well-informed.

Seller preparation tips:

• Avoid overpricing – today’s buyers are well‑informed
• Make sure your onward mortgage options are clear
• Be ready to move when the right offer appears

Homeowners coming to the end of a fixed deal

If you’re coming off a fixed rate in 2026:

• You’re likely to remortgage at a lower rate than those rolling off in 2023–24
• But payments may still be higher than your original deal

Action points:

• Start reviewing options 6 months before your deal ends
• Don’t default to your lender’s standard variable rate
• Consider your risk comfort when choosing between fixing or a variable rate

How couples and individuals can prepare for the year ahead

Whether buying, selling or remortgaging, preparation is key.

Financial preparation:

• Stress-test your budget at slightly higher rates
• Reduce unsecured debt where possible
• Build a buffer for moving costs and rate changes

Strategic preparation:

• Be clear on your timeframes
• Understand how rate choices affect long-term plans
• Get advice early, not after you’ve found a property

Summary

• The December 2025 cut confirms that rates are trending downward, but gradually
• Mortgage deals are already improving and competition between lenders is increasing
• 2026 looks more stable, predictable and buyer-friendly than the last two years
• Preparation and good advice matter more than ever

Daniel Mumford the Managing Director of Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd stated that “conditions look a lot more favourable over the next 12 months, with increased competition and improving interests rate, but if the last 36 months have taught us anything, the world can be an unpredictable place and as such if the opportunity ever exists to secure a new mortgage deal at todays terms, that would always be advisable. However with a view if things do improve you can still take advantage of them, which is a concept we are happy to assist with and could prove really valuable if market conditions ever changed for the worse”.

Navigating the mortgage market is easier with expert support. That’s where the Police Mutual mortgage advice service – provided by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, comes in, supporting serving and retired Police Officers, Staff and their families by helping them find the right mortgage deal by providing:

• Fee-free, impartial mortgage advice
• Access to thousands of mortgage deals across the market
• Specialist support for complex income, shift‑based pay and police‑specific needs
• Help with first‑time buys, home moves and remortgages
• A dedicated adviser throughout the process

Whether you want to understand your borrowing potential, secure a competitive rate, or plan-ahead for later in the year, the mortgage advice service can help you make confident, informed decisions.

Important things you need to know

PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, has chosen Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd to provide customers with a mortgage advice service. Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd will provide you with independent mortgage advice and make a recommendation based on your circumstances and requirements. You will not receive advice or any recommendation from Police Mutual.

If you take out a mortgage recommended by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, PMGI Limited will receive a fee for the introduction which is a percentage based on the loan amount. We may also earn an additional fee based on performance of our account. If you wish to know the fee we receive please contact Grange Mortgages.

Grange Mortgages & Protection Services Ltd, is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd. Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Find out more

This article was published on 7 January 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

The New Year is all about fresh starts, whether that means moving to a new home, improving your financial security, or planning ahead for the future. If your mortgage deal is due to end soon or you’re considering a move in 2026, now is the ideal time to take action. Acting early can give you access to a broader range of mortgage options and may help you secure a competitive rate. However, please note that mortgage rates can vary and are subject to change.

Why acting early matters

Mortgage rates and lender criteria can change quickly. Waiting until your current deal expires could mean paying a higher rate, or missing out on a wider range of mortgage options that may be available earlier. By starting the process early, you could:

• Avoid costly standard variable rates (SVR) when your deal ends
• Secure a competitive rate that works for you
• Plan with confidence, knowing your finances are secure

What should you do now?

1. Check your current mortgage deal
   Find out when your fixed or tracker rate ends. If it’s within the next six months, it’s time to start planning
2. Understand your options
   Whether you’re remortgaging or buying a new home, the right advice could save you money over the life of your mortgage
3. Get expert guidance
   Navigating the mortgage market alone can be overwhelming, especially with shift work and family commitments. Professional advice can help you make informed decisions without the stress.

Fee-Free mortgage advice service

We understand the unique needs of serving and retired Police Officers, Staff and their families. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd to offer fee-free mortgage advice, giving you access to:

• Whole-of-market lenders for the best possible deals.
• Specialist knowledge of police pay structures and allowances.
• Flexible appointments to fit around your shifts.

You’ll be guided through every step, from comparing rates to securing the right mortgage for your circumstances, all at no extra cost.

Contact Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd today for fee-free advice and start the year with confidence.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Find out more here.

PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual acts as an intermediary for the purposes of introducing its customers to Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd. PMGI Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd. Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

If you take out a mortgage recommended by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, PMGI Limited will receive a fee for the introduction which is a percentage based on the loan amount. We may also earn an additional fee based on performance of our account. If you wish to know the fee we receive please contact Grange Mortgages

This article was published on 15 September 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

From June 2025 to 2028 Q2, roughly 3.6 million households are expected to re-finance onto higher rates. Some who fixed during the 2022–23 volatility may see payments fall, others coming off 2% and 3% deals could face higher monthly costs.

What you can do before your mortgage deal ends.

6–9 Months Before Your Deal Ends:

1. Lock in a rate early
   Many lenders let you secure a new rate up to 6 months ahead. If rates drop before your deal completes, you can switch to the lower one. This could give you protection and flexibility.
2. Improve your Loan-to-Value (LTV)
   Making small extra payments or adding savings can reduce your LTV. A lower LTV often means better mortgage rates.
3. Check your credit report
   Make sure your address is correct, it would be good to clear any small debts, and avoid taking out new loans or credit cards if possible.
4. Choose between Fixed or Tracker rates
   • Fixed Rate: Good if you want predictable payments.
     • 5-year fix = long-term stability
     • 2–3 year fix = short-term option if you think rates will drop
   • Tracker/Discount Rate: Offers flexibility (e.g., easier to overpay or repay early).
5. Be ready for rate changes and have a financial buffer.
6. Compare Product Transfer vs Remortgage
   • Product Transfer: Usually quicker to arrange and more straightforward, less paperwork.
   • Remortgage: Might get better rates or features (like offset or portability) but involves a full financial check.
7. Build a safety net
   Try to save 3–6 months of essential expenses. If that’s tough, you could set up a monthly transfer to build it gradually.
8. Think about protection
   Income protection or life/critical illness cover can help keep your finances stable if something unexpected happens, especially if your mortgage costs are going up.

When you apply:

• Get your documents ready
  Depending on the lender, you’ll typically need:
  • Last 3-6 payslips and P60 (or SA302s if self-employed)
  • ID and proof of address
  • Evidence of deposit or any overpayments
  • Bank statements: Showing regular outgoings like rent, loans, credit cards
  • Other commitments: Insurance, child maintenance, etc.

• Look beyond the rate
  Make sure you compare fees, early repayment charges and features like offset or overpayment options. Sometimes the best deal isn’t the lowest rate.

If you’re a Buy-to-Let landlord

• Expect lenders to keep using strict rent coverage checks.
• Review your portfolio and consider adding funds if needed.

If you’re buying a new build

• If you reserved off-plan, check how long your mortgage offer is valid (usually 3–6 months).
• Be ready to update paperwork if the build is delayed.

You can find more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service, provided by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd here.

This article was published on 11 July 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

Grange Mortgages have released their latest Residential Property review that reveals how the UK housing market showed renewed momentum in May 2025, with Rightmove reporting the busiest month for agreed property sales since March 2022.

After a rush to beat April’s Stamp Duty changes and a short-lived dip in buyer demand, activity bounced back strongly. Sales agreed rose 6% year-on-year across Great Britain, with Wales leading at +15% and London showing a modest +1% rise.

May 2025 also marked the most active May since 2021, pointing to growing confidence among buyers and sellers who are adjusting to a changing tax and borrowing environment. Rightmove data suggests that buyers are increasingly willing to proceed, despite higher costs—indicating that demand for homes remains resilient.

Meanwhile, in Prime Central London, average house prices fell by 2.2% year-on-year—the sharpest drop since August 2024—according to Knight Frank. The slowdown is being linked to changes in the non-dom tax regime and higher Stamp Duty on additional properties. In contrast, Prime Outer London has remained steadier, with prices rising 1.1%, driven more by domestic buyers.

In wider policy news, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a £39bn investment in affordable and social housing over the next decade—described as the biggest cash injection in 50 years. Analysts at JLL believe this could help deliver up to 500,000 new homes.

Yopa also reports that properties near major UK music festivals come at a premium, with average prices around 41% higher than the national average. The LS22 postcode near Leeds Festival tops the list, with house prices 91% above the city average.

To read the full report and to find out the average price by region click here.

For information on Police Mutual and Grange Mortgages, visit our Mortgages page.

Correct as of 18 June 2025. Always seek personalised financial advice before making property decisions.