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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:
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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).
- Fixed Rate: Good if you want predictable payments.
- Be ready for rate changes and have a financial buffer.
- 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.
- 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. - 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.