Barclays Mortgages has announced a reduction in rates across a selection of their residential purchase products effective from Wednesday, 8th May 2024.
The changes include a reduction in the 2-year fixed rate mortgage from 5.23% to 4.99% with an £899 product fee at 85% loan-to-value (LTV), applicable to loans between £5k and £2m.
Another 2-year fixed rate mortgage will see rates decrease from 5.57% to 5.18% with no product fee and the same 85% LTV, for loans ranging from £5k to £2m.
Additionally, the 5-year fixed rate mortgage will drop from 4.92% to 4.78% with an £899 product fee at 85% LTV for loans between £5k and £2m.
A second 5-year fixed rate mortgage with no product fee will see a reduction from 5.13% to 4.95% at 85% LTV, also applicable to loans from £5k to £2m.
Reaction
Dariusz Karpowicz, director at Albion Financial Advice:
“Barclays’ decision to lower rates on its fixed-rate Purchase deals, particularly at higher loan-to-value levels, is a refreshing departure from the recent trend of rate hikes among mainstream lenders. While this reduction brings welcome news for potential homebuyers, I’m hesitant to anticipate a similar trend from other lenders amidst the current economic uncertainty. It’s certainly a breath of fresh air, but whether it will influence other lenders remains uncertain.”
Ben Perks, managing director at Orchard Financial Advisers:
“Barclays bringing better news for borrowers by announcing cuts to their purchase product range. This is a stark contrast to the majority of lenders that have been increasing lately. It shows a real intent to lend and a willingness to price aggressively where possible.”
Michelle Lawson, director at Lawson Financial:
“Messed up mixed message May has started. Barclays reducing while HSBC and Natwest have increased today. Who knows what is going on…anyone?!”
Justin Moy, managing director at EHF Mortgages:
“Barclays has made a surprising move with its purchase rates, mirroring a strategy adopted by many lenders back in January to stimulate the crucial home-moving market. Given the significance of this segment, I anticipate other High Street lenders following suit with similar changes to their products. However, we may see remortgage products increase to offset these discounted deals. Overall, it’s a positive move from Barclays that is likely to attract a lot of business in the short term.”
Stephen Perkins, managing director at Yellow Brick Mortgages:
“Positive rate reductions from Barclays on purchase applications is very welcome news, especially after so many rate rises from top six lenders over the past seven days. This is likley more about business mix goals, trying to attract more purchase and less remortgage business for a short period.”
Ranald Mitchell, director at Charwin Private Clients:
“The UK housing market is in urgent need of revitalisation, with potential homebuyers poised yet hesitant due to escalating mortgage rates. The demand to purchase or relocate is evident, but high rates have kept many prospective buyers on the sidelines. Barclays latest move lowering their mortgage rates, offering more affordable borrowing costs will assist some buyers. However, further rate reductions are necessary to truly kickstart the property market.”
Gary Bush, financial adviser at MortgageShop.com:
“Wow, Barclays bank is pushing its mortgage rates in the right direction, downwards, against a lot of its competitor lenders who are increasing still. UK households truly need to see rates coming down to ease some of the pressure that they have come under for the last two years.”
Hannah Bashford, director at Model Financial Solutions:
“Barclays is setting out their stall as a lender that wants to lend and help to stimulate the housing market. Not a great day for existing borrowers, with other lenders increasing their existing borrower rates and Barclays focusing on purchases, but any decrease in rates at this point is very welcome.”
