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Will mortgage rates go down in 2024 UK?

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    On the 21st of March 2024, when the Bank of England (BOE) last had a committee they chose to keep the base rate at 5.25%. This was due to inflation dropping slightly in September 2023 and staying steady into November 2023. On the 20th of March 2024 UK inflation dropped sharply from 4% to 3.4% continuing a downward trend to reach the lowest point since September 2021.

    The base rate rises throughout 2023 were an attempt to curb UK inflation, which has worked, falling from its highest peak of 9.6% back in October 2022 but still above their desired goal rate of 2%. The latest base rate meeting was the fifth time since August 2023 that the base rate remained the same after a run of 14 base rate increases. Earlier this year the Monetary Policy Committee at the Bank of England approved the ability to increase interest rates by 0.25%, a more conservative rise compared to the previously forecasted 0.5%. This shift signifies a “massive improvement” from the figures reported in May and brings a sense of relief, especially considering that experts had anticipated a decrease between April and May, but the figures remained stagnant.

    Interest Rate Predictions

    Looking ahead, analysts now believe the UK interest rates have hit their peak. It is widely believed that the base rate will not rise anywhere near the earlier predictions of 6%. This is a notable decrease from early 2023 when the markets had priced in rates rising as high as 6.5% by March 2024. Now we have reached March 2024 the base rate sits a massive 1.25% lower than these rates predicted a year ago, showing we are heading in the right direction for rates to fall during 2024.

    It is widely predicted that the base rate will drop 0.25% three times during the second half of 2024.

    Given these new predictions, the landscape of mortgage rates in 2024 is set to change. Let’s explore what this means for homeowners and potential buyers.

    Mortgage Rate Predictions 2024

    Mortgage rate predictions for 2024 suggest a plateau in base rate rises until the second half of the year. Bank of England’s decisions, inflation rates, and global economic events all play an essential role in shaping these changes. As of March 2024, the average rate on a two-year fixed deal is 5.76%, and the average rate on a five-year fixed deal is 5.34%. These are hovering around the highest levels since August 2008, around the peak of the financial crash.

    The last Bank of England meeting was on the 1st February 2024, when they decided to keep the base rate at 5.25%. This could directly influence mortgage rates throughout 2024. Unexpected economic events could alter these predictions as well.

    It is my observation after reading market predictions that the Bank of England base rate will most likely not rise again during 2024. This will be the case if inflation continues to drop as it has been, which now currently sits at 3.4%.

    As inflation drops, we are starting to see a swing for 2-year and 3-year fixed rates over the longer 5-year rates, which will be the opposite of what we have seen over the last 18 months. We are already seeing mortgage rates drop from 5 to 4%, and by the end of the year, going into 2025, they are predicted to drop even further, potentially even to 3%.

    I can see a demand and trend for tracker mortgage rates in 2024 and the likelihood we may see new innovative products launched by the mortgage lenders. These could be tracker rates that would allow you to convert to a fixed rate during the term without paying extra fees. – Steve Roberts

    Mortgage Rate Predictions 2025

    Leading economists have recently updated their forecasts for interest rates in 2025, bringing some potentially good news for those seeking mortgages or renewals.

    Paul Dales, chief UK economist at Capital Economics, has revised their prediction, stating that the Bank Rate is expected to drop as low as 3% in 2025, lower than their previous expectation of 3.25%. This adjustment stems from softer-than-expected figures on both CPI inflation and wage growth released in December.

    Goldman Sachs anticipates an even earlier reduction, predicting the first rate cut in May, a decision that could save households £11bn by the end of next year. They expect policymakers to begin cutting rates by a quarter of a percentage point at every meeting from May, continuing until rates hit 3% in May 2025.

    Money markets align with this view, predicting that the Bank of England will start reducing interest rates from May, with bets implying rates will be cut to 3.75% by the end of the year.

    The Bank of England’s proactive approach to cutting rates is aimed at bolstering the economy, signalling a significant shift from the current rate of 5.25%. This change is anticipated to have a noticeable impact on the mortgage market in 2025.

    Fixed Rate Mortgages: Should You Fix Your Mortgage Rate Now?

    Over the last few weeks, mortgage lenders have pulled hundreds of fixed-rate mortgage deals and raised the mortgage rates on their best mortgage deals as they are worried the BOE may raise its base rate further.

    With the BOE base rate at 5.25% and the market pricing further increasing, you should consider fixing your mortgage if you are worried about how high-interest rates might go and whether you can keep up your mortgage monthly repayments.

    Even if you are currently on a fixed-rate mortgage, where the fixed period isn’t due to expire for another 6 months, it is possible to lock in a cheap rate now, which will start when your current fixed deal ends, avoiding any early redemption charges from your existing lender.

    Discuss your options with a knowledgeable advisor
    Put the odds of a successful mortgage in your favour with the help of a qualified and experienced mortgage broker.

    How is the Bank of England base rate set?

    The Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England is responsible for setting its official base rate. Meeting approximately every six weeks, MPC meets to decide on any potential changes and publishes its decision and meeting minutes on its website.

    The decision on setting the base rate is informed by several economic indicators, including employment, inflation, and GDP. The current Governor of the Bank of England Andrew Bailey continues to use an established list of 18 economic indicators as part of his Monetary Policy Committee decision-making process outlined by former Governor Mark Carney.

    When is the market predicting mortgage rates will change?

    The market’s predictions regarding mortgage rates have seen some significant changes recently. As of the 21st March, the Bank of England (BoE) kept the base rate at 5.25%. This is due to the drop in inflation that currently stands at 3.4% annually; lower than earlier in 2023 but well above its target rate of 2%.

    Looking further ahead, UK interest rates are now expected to be at their peak. This is a notable decrease from earlier this month when the markets had priced in rates rising as high as 6.5% by March 2024.

    Given these new predictions, homeowners and potential buyers alike should carefully evaluate all their mortgage options when making this important decision. The Bank of England will next meet on 9th May 2024, to decide whether interest rates will remain the same or decrease, it is not likely the base rate will rise again in 2024. If inflation continues to drop in 2024 it is believed the base rate will continue to remain the same or even drop slightly.

    What are the key indicators that will impact interest rate changes?

    The Bank of England uses several economic indicators when deciding whether or not to increase interest rates, including:

    • Inflation: In March 2024, UK inflation stood at 3.4% – this represents a decline from March 2023 but is still higher than its official target of 2%.
    • Official Support for Low Rates: The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to keep its base rate at 5.25%.
    • Economic Developments: The UK’s GDP is estimated to have grown by 0.2% year-on-year during January 2024; growth for Q1 2024 is anticipated at 0.3%.
    • Unemployment: From November 2023 to January 2024, unemployment in the UK stood at 3.9%.
    • Wage Growth: Regular pay (excluding bonuses ) rose 6.1% annually between January 2024 and January 2025, while average total pay grew 5.6% during this time.
    • Economic Forecasts: According to projections by the Bank of England, growth will occur at 0.8% for 2024-2025 and 1.9% thereafter.

    What to do with my mortgage in 2024?

    The ability to remortgage and fix your mortgage at the same sort of rate has become more difficult over recent years as the rules surrounding the affordability checks when applying for a mortgage were tightened leaving some borrowers stranded on their existing deals.

    It’s important to calculate the impact of future interest rate rises and seek advice from a mortgage expert ahead of time by following the steps below. Whether you are on a tracker mortgage, variable rate mortgage, or looking to remortgage your existing fixed rate deal that is coming to an end the steps below will take you a few seconds but could prevent your mortgage repayments crippling your finances in the future and help you secure fixed mortgage rates while they are still available.

    Step 1 – Determine your current mortgage situation

    Before you can determine the best course of action for your mortgage, it is important to understand your current situation. This information includes what type of mortgage (variable, fixed rates, or tracker rates), your current rate, and loan term. If you need help understanding these details further, contact your mortgage lender or review your documents to gain a clear picture.

    Step 2 – Calculate the impact of an interest rate increase on your mortgage payments

    An interest rate rise calculator allows you to quickly assess the potential effects of an increase in interest rates on your monthly mortgage payments. Simply input details such as loan amount, term length, and current interest rate before increasing it in various scenarios to calculate potential changes in monthly payments based on different interest rate scenarios and figure out how much additional funds would need to be set aside in case an increase takes place. This tool gives a good indication of what to budget for in case an interest rate increase occurs.

    Step 3 – Seek advice from a mortgage expert

    If an interest rate increase will have an adverse impact on your mortgage payments, consulting a mortgage expert is highly advised. They can assess the housing market as well as your current financial situation and assist in understanding potential solutions such as fixed rate or alternative types of loans; also helping find you the most competitive rates and terms possible according to your unique situation.

    Step 4 – Act quickly if you decide to fix your mortgage rate

    When considering fixing your mortgage rate as the optimal course of action, acting swiftly is key. The lowest fixed-rate mortgages offers often vanish quickly when there are indications from the Bank of England of potential rate hikes; take immediate steps to secure one before it disappears! A mortgage expert can help compare different mortgage deals and assist in the application process to make sure you secure an excellent rate.

    The best way to find out your mortgage options

    One way to find the right mortgage options for you is to collaborate with an independent mortgage adviser. While price comparison sites may seem like an effective solution, it’s important to remember that many deals only available through advisers aren’t listed here and may only appear after credit checks have taken place – which could negatively impact future applications for loans.

    Due to these considerations, working with an independent mortgage adviser is often beneficial; they can assist in finding you the most beneficial mortgage deal from lenders that will actually lend to you – approximately 70% of borrowers opt for this route. To start off your journey toward refinancing, reach out to an adviser or mortgage broker. With fixed-rate deals being withdrawn on a daily basis, it’s never been more important to be on top of your mortgage options before we see further interest rate rises.

    Discuss your options with a knowledgeable advisor
    Put the odds of a successful mortgage in your favour with the help of a qualified and experienced mortgage broker.

    Further reading

    FAQs

    In 2024, UK mortgage rates are expected to decline gradually, as the Bank of England lowers its base rate in response to easing inflation and slowing economic growth. As of December 2023, the average rate on a two-year fixed deal is 6.1%, and for a five-year fixed deal, it’s 5.5%. Forecasts suggest that the Bank of England base rate, which influences mortgage rates, might drop from 5.25% to 4.5% by the end of 2024. However, these are only estimates, and actual rates will depend on various factors such as the economy, inflation, and the Bank of England’s decisions. It’s always advisable to consult with a mortgage advisor when making decisions related to mortgages.

    Interest rates are likely to stay high for the first half of 2024, before falling significantly in the second half of the year. According to the IMF, the recent spike in real interest rates is temporary and should revert to pre-pandemic levels once inflation is under control. The Bank of England is expected to start cutting its base rate in February 2024, followed by steep cuts until mid-2025. This will have a positive impact on long-term mortgage rates, which are expected to drop below 5% by the end of 2024.

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    Steve Roberts (MAQ)
    Steve Roberts (MAQ)

    Stephen Roberts MAQ is the founder of YesCanDo Money, one of the UK's largest no-fee mortgage brokers. With more than 30 years of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, Steve really knows the ins and outs of mortgages. He's become a trusted expert and authority in the field, thanks to his deep understanding of the mortgage landscape. Speak to Steve or a member of his knowledgeable team today by completing our contact form:

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