With an estimated 1.8 million mortgage deals set to expire in 2025, remortgaging is poised to be a crucial financial decision for many homeowners this year. If your fixed-rate deal is coming to an end, navigating the remortgage process doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful planning and expert guidance, you can secure a deal that aligns with your financial objectives.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to securing the best remortgage deal.
Understand Your Current Mortgage
Before exploring new mortgage options, take time to review your existing mortgage terms, including:
- Your current interest rate and monthly repayments
- The expiry date of your fixed-rate deal
- Your remaining mortgage balance
Having these details readily available will help you assess whether switching to a new deal will be beneficial or increase your repayments.
Seek Expert Mortgage Advice
Consulting a mortgage adviser can provide tailored insights based on your financial situation. Advisers often have access to exclusive deals and can guide you through market complexities.
Benefits of Using a Mortgage Adviser:
- Unbiased, professional advice
- Access to exclusive mortgage deals
- Expert knowledge of lender requirements
Explore Your Remortgage Options
There are two primary routes to consider when remortgaging:
- Switching to a New Lender: This option may provide better interest rates or more flexible terms.
- Product Transfer with Your Current Lender: This allows you to switch to a different deal with your existing lender, often with reduced paperwork and fewer administrative hurdles.
Your mortgage adviser will help weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option to ensure you select the best fit for your financial goals.
Timing Your Remortgage
Start your remortgage planning 3–6 months before your current deal expires. This proactive approach allows time to secure a competitive rate and prevents your mortgage from reverting to your lender’s typically higher Standard Variable Rate (SVR).
Even if your fixed deal is ending soon, it's not too late to act. Many lenders enable you to secure a deal in advance, ensuring a seamless transition.
Prepare Your Application
Once you've selected a new deal, your mortgage adviser will guide you through the application process. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as:
- Proof of income (payslips or tax returns for self-employed individuals)
- Identification documents
- Recent bank statements
Avoid Early Repayment Charges
Exiting your current mortgage too soon can trigger Early Repayment Charges (ERCs), which can be as high as 5% of your outstanding balance. However, many lenders allow you to secure a deal in advance and activate it once your current fixed term ends, helping you avoid unnecessary fees.
Check Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a crucial role in determining the mortgage rates and deals available to you.
- Higher Credit Score: Increased access to better rates and lenders
- Lower Credit Score: Higher rates or possible application rejection
If your score has declined, take steps to improve it before applying, such as reducing debt and avoiding unnecessary credit applications.
Market Trends: What to Expect in 2025
The remortgage landscape is evolving, influenced by fluctuating interest rates. While rates are expected to decline, they remain higher than the historically low rates seen in previous years.
- 2025 Forecast: Five-year fixed rates may drop to around 4.0%, yet still above the 2.5% average in 2019.
- Impact: If transitioning from a lower fixed-rate deal, prepare for potential repayment increases.
Best Practices for a Successful Remortgage
- Plan Ahead: Start exploring options well in advance.
- Maintain Financial Stability: Avoid excessive spending, new credit applications, or overdrafts close to your remortgage application.
- Utilise Expert Advice: Mortgage advisers can help secure the most favourable terms and simplify the process.
Take the Next Step
Securing the best remortgage deal doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning and expert advice, you can take control of your financial future.
Talk to JW Wood Estate Agents today to connect with trusted mortgage advisers who will guide you every step of the way.
Let’s make 2025 the year of smarter property decisions.
Adapted from www.Whatmortgage.co.uk
