After interest rate hikes by the Bank of England during 2023, we now see a plateau going into 2024. The base rate now sits at 5.25% and has remained that way since September 2023, signalling an end to increasing rates for tracker or fixed mortgages. Many homeowners and prospective buyers are left questioning what this means for their mortgages in 2024, especially with higher mortgage interest rates and external interest rates driving up costs. It is therefore essential that you get a tracker or fixed mortgage product with the lowest interest rates and consider the benefits of securing a deal early.
What is a Tracker Mortgage?
A tracker mortgage is a type of variable-rate mortgage that adjusts according to the Bank of England (BoE) base rate, potentially offering a better mortgage deal when rates decrease. When the BoE rate changes, so does your mortgage interest rate, affecting your monthly mortgage payments. Lenders add a fixed percentage to the base rate, determining your total interest. To limit fluctuation, some tracker mortgages feature a cap (maximum rate) or collar (minimum rate), ensuring your rate stays within a predefined range, and offering predictability amidst rate variability.
What is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?
Fixed-rate mortgages work by fixing an interest rate so it remains consistent over their entire duration, usually 2,3,5 or 10 years. This ensures financial predictability and stability by shielding borrowers from rising interest rates, thus facilitating easier budgeting. However, if rates significantly decline, borrowers might find themselves paying more in interest compared to variable-rate mortgages. Nonetheless, when your current fixed-rate mortgage term ends, you have the opportunity to remortgage to secure a new deal at a better rate.
Fixed vs Tracker Mortgage: The Pros & Cons
In the current economic climate, evaluating your current deal, whether it’s fixed-rate or tracker, is more crucial than ever. Here’s what to consider:
Fixed-rate Mortgage Pro & Cons
For many homeowners, fixing their mortgage rate for a set fixed term is a sensible choice, offering financial predictability. A fixed-rate mortgage provides the certainty of knowing your exact monthly payments. A fixed term can be a relief, especially when compared to the variable rates of your mortgage lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR). However, like all financial decisions, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider:
Pros:
- Your monthly repayments stay the same even if the base rate rises, making budgeting simpler for those with fixed-rate mortgages.
- Fixed rates often offer better value than a lender’s standard variable rate (SVR).
- Provides financial stability as your mortgage payment remains constant during the deal’s set period.
Cons:
- It won’t benefit from lower mortgage repayments if the base rate falls, a consideration for those contemplating fixed-rate mortgages
- Early repayment charges (ERC) may apply if you switch deals prematurely.
Tracker-rate Mortgage Pro & Cons
Choosing a tracker mortgage provides the potential of lower rates of interest by following the Bank of England (BOE) base rate, contrasting with the stability of a fixed rate term. However, like all financial decisions, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider, especially when comparing fixed-rate mortgages to variable rate options.
Pros:
- Payments decrease when the BOE lowers the base rate, potentially offering a cheaper rate than fixed mortgages in certain market conditions.
- Tracker rates can have better interest rates than a lender’s standard variable rate.
- Sometimes cheaper than a fixed rate mortgage, offering potential savings, but not when the base rate is high as we see in 2024, which is why it’s vital to choose wisely to save money.
Cons:
- Payments increase if the bank of England raises the base rate, affecting both tracker and fixed mortgage holders.
- A rate collar may limit the benefits of significant base rate cuts, potentially resulting in a higher rate than expected.
- Switching deals early may incur early repayment charges (ERC), making it an expensive deal if not calculated properly.
Choosing a Fixed or Tracker Mortgage in 2024
In 2024, selecting the right mortgage, whether it’s a new deal in fixed or tracker mortgages, is crucial. A fixed-rate mortgage offers stability, ideal for consistent budgeting, while a tracker mortgage, tied to economic indicators, suits those prepared for rate fluctuations. Your choice should consider rate mortgage products, potential tracker mortgage comeback, and current economic indicators, aligning with your financial goals and risk tolerance. It’s vital to stay updated on mortgage rates and market shifts. Consulting a mortgage broker can provide personalised mortgage advice, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your unique situation.
“In 2024, and reflecting on the past year, with interest rates and market conditions constantly changing, choosing the right type of mortgage is more crucial than ever. Considering the Bank of England’s base rate and the mortgage market’s current state is key. At YesCanDo Money, we aim to demystify this process, providing clear, personalised mortgage advice. Whether it’s the stability of a fixed-rate mortgage or the flexibility of a tracker, our focus is on aligning with our clients’ financial goals for their long-term benefit.” – Steve Roberts, founder of YesCanDo Money.
Tracker vs Fixed Mortgage: Current Rates
Navigating the mortgage landscape can be complex, with tracker and fixed mortgage rates offering distinct advantages and challenges. Let’s compare current live tracker vs fixed mortgage rates, below is a snapshot of the current best rates for both. Use the tabs to switch between the current best fixed rates and tracker rate mortgages.
The Current Mortgage Landscape – Will Interest Rates Rise?
The Bank of England estimates that inflation reached its annual peak near the end of 2022, driven by energy and food price increases, reaching 8.7%. When inflation exceeds 2%, interest rates will typically be raised to try and bring it under control; interest rate rises have occurred regularly since December 2021.
On the 3rd of August 2023 the base rate increased from 5% to 5.25%; this mark represented inflation reaching its highest level since 2008. Since the base rate rose to 5.25% it has remained the same level half way through 2024. Leaving the question, what will the base rate do next?
The base rate rises have had serious repercussions for the mortgage market, with lenders withdrawing hundreds of mortgage deals and increasing fixed-rate interest rates by up to between 5 and 6%. This has increased monthly mortgage payments on typical 25-year mortgage by £68 per £100,000.
For current mortgage rate predictions read our guide on Will mortgage rates go down in 2024 UK?
Mortgage Lenders with Flexible Mortgages
Torn between choosing a fixed or tracker mortgage? Offering a best-of-both-world scenario, a flexible mortgage could be a great choice for you. Flexible mortgages give you greater control over how to repay your loan, potentially saving money while giving you greater payment flexibility depending on your current circumstances. They allow for overpayments on your mortgage with no early repayment charge which helps reduce balances more quickly while paying less interest overall.
Below we list some of the mortgage lenders that offer some flexibility on their fixed-rate and tracker-rate mortgages.
| Lender | Mortgage Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| NatWest | Tracker Switch | The NatWest ‘Track and Switch’ option, switch from tracker to fixed-rate after three months without a re-credit check. |
| Nationwide | Tracker Mortgages | No Early Repayment Charges for deals reserved after May 2, 2014, allowing overpayments or early payoff. |
| Leeds Building Society | Fixed-Rate Mortgages | Allows unlimited overpayments without Early Repayment Charges, combining rate stability with payment flexibility. |
| Newcastle Building Society and Kent Alliance | Discount Mortgages | Offer discount mortgages without Early Repayment Charges, enabling lower initial payments and flexible overpayments. |
| Barclays | Tracker Mortgages | Tracker mortgages with no redemption fees, payments adjust with the BOE base rate. |
| Coventry Building Society | Tracker Mortgages | Linked to the BOE base rate, no Early Repayment Charges, offering payment flexibility. |
| HSBC | Tracker Mortgages | HSBC Tracker Mortgages no Early Repayment Charges, allows for overpayments or early payoff for homeowners. |
| Skipton Building Society | Tracker Mortgages | Skipton Tracker mortgages without Early Repayment Charges, enabling overpayments and faster debt reduction. |
| TSB | Tracker Mortgages | Allows overpayments or early payoff without Early Repayment Charges, known for customer-focused service. |
FAQs
Is now a good time to fix a mortgage?
With inflation decreasing it will only be a matter of time before interest rates fall. Although this will often take several months the chances are that we will see interest rates and mortgage rates start to decrease in 2024.
Whether a fixed or variable mortgage is right for you will depend on your attitude to risk and how tight your finances are. We are seeing an increase in tracker deals and our clients are less open to a fixed rate deal as we move towards the end of 2023.
Is it worth getting a tracker mortgage now?
Tracker mortgages can be beneficial if you anticipate that the base rate will decrease, offering potential savings. But they involve risk if rates rise; currently, it appears the base rate has plateaued and inflation remains under control; this trend suggests tracker mortgage rates might remain stable, although economic indicators could potentially change interest rate trends over time.
Will mortgage interest rates go down in 2024 UK?
Predicting interest rates is challenging. They depend on economic factors and the Bank of England's policies. Monitor market trends for insights.
Is a tracker mortgage better than a fixed rate?
A tracker mortgage may be better if you can handle rate fluctuations and anticipate base rate drops. Fixed rates offer predictable repayments.
Is it better to stay on a tracker mortgage?
Staying on a tracker mortgage is beneficial if you anticipate a decrease in interest rates and are comfortable with potential rate variability.
Is it best to get a 2 or 5-year fixed mortgage in 2024?
Choose based on your financial plans. A 2-year fixed offers short-term stability, while a 5-year fixed rate deals provide longer-term rate security. Learn more here 2 or 5 Year Fixed Mortgage: The Best Choice for You
What is the current rate for a tracker mortgage?
As of February 2024, tracker mortgage rates for a 90% LTV start at 6.04% and 5.54% for a 70% LTV, influenced by the Bank of England's base rate of 5.25%. Rates vary based on financial circumstances and market conditions.
Is a tracker mortgage rate above the base rate?
Yes, tracker mortgage rates are usually set around 1.5% above the Bank of England base rate and adjust in line with its changes.
Working with a Mortgage Broker to Make the Best Decision for You
Selecting the right option among fixed-rate, tracker, or flexible mortgages is contingent on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and expectations for future interest rate movements. Partnering with a mortgage broker can clarify these options, helping you to make a well-informed decision that best fits your unique circumstances.
Keep in mind, that the mortgage market is constantly in flux. Staying in regular touch with your mortgage advisor is crucial to ensure that your mortgage plan remains aligned with your changing needs and the latest market trends.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that the information in this article should only be taken as educational and should not be seen as financial advice.
