Options for first-time buyers include fixed, variable and interest-only mortgages
Buying a house in the UK is a major investment that requires careful planning and consideration. With various financing options available, it can be challenging to determine the best route to take. This article will explore different financing options for buying a house in the UK.
The first step to financing a house purchase is to determine your affordability. This will depend on your income, expenses, credit score, and the amount of deposit you can afford. A good rule of thumb is that your housing expenses, including mortgage payments, insurance, and taxes, should not exceed 35% of your net monthly income.
Size of deposit
The size of your deposit will also affect your financing options. The minimum deposit required in the UK is 5% of the purchase price, but a deposit of 10% or more will usually result in more favourable mortgage rates.
Fixed versus variable rate mortgages
Regarding mortgages, there are two main types: fixed-rate and variable-rate. A fixed-rate mortgage has a set interest rate for a specific period, typically between two and ten years. This provides stability and predictability as your monthly payments remain unchanged during the fixed-rate period. The average interest rate for a two-year fixed-rate mortgage in the UK is around 2.4%, while a five-year fixed-rate mortgage has an average rate of around 2.7%.
A variable-rate mortgage, also known as a tracker or discounted mortgage, has an interest rate that can change over time based on the Bank of England’s base rate. The initial interest rate is typically lower than a fixed-rate mortgage, but there is the risk of higher payments if the base rate increases. Variable-rate mortgages can be suitable for those comfortable with fluctuations in their monthly payments and willing to take on some risk.
How to get an interest-only mortgage
Another option to consider is an interest-only mortgage, where you only pay the interest on the loan for a specific period, usually between five and ten years. This can be attractive for those with a lower income initially but expect their income to increase. However, interest-only mortgages also carry risks, as you do not pay off house equity and may owe more than the property is worth if property values decline. It’s worth talking with a mortgage advisor who can help you to access the correct mortgage based on individual circumstances.
Help to buy
In addition to traditional mortgages, alternative financing options are available in the UK. One option is a Help to Buy equity loan, available to first-time buyers and existing homeowners looking to move. The loan provides up to 20% of the property’s value (40% in London) as an interest-free loan for the first five years. This can reduce the size of the mortgage required and lower monthly payments. However, the UK Government has currently discontinued the initiative for new applicants.
How to access a shared ownership mortgage
Another alternative financing option is shared ownership, where you buy a percentage of the property, usually between 25% and 75%, and pay rent on the remaining share. This can be an affordable way to get on the property ladder, but it can be challenging to sell the property later.
When it comes to deposit sizes, it’s worth noting that a larger deposit can result in better mortgage rates. For example, if you have a deposit of 15% or more, you may be eligible for a lower interest rate. On the other hand, if you have a smaller deposit, you may need to consider a higher interest rate or take out a guarantor mortgage, where a family member guarantees the mortgage payments.
In conclusion, buying a house in the UK requires careful consideration of your finances and the financing options available. It’s essential to determine your affordability and choose the right type of mortgage for your needs. Whether you opt for a fixed-rate or variable-rate mortgage, an interest-only mortgage or an alternative financing option, research and seek advice from a qualified professional before making any decisions.
