Bank of England hike rates to levels last seen in 2008
The Bank of England (BoE) put further strain on households and businesses by increasing interest rates for the 12th time in a row.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), the group responsible for setting the base rate and therefore the official borrowing costs, have increased rates to 4.5%, the highest level since October 2008.
CONTRACTOR MORTGAGES – HOW MUCH YOU COULD BORROW?
But Why?
Figures due tomorrow are expected to show that gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.1% in the first 3 months of this year, beating the banks forecasts but more importantly putting the economy on track to dodge a technical recession. This coupled with inflation figures remaining stubbornly high at 10.1% appear to have forced the MPC’s hand.
Analysts at Japanese bank Nomura noted “Stronger data supports the hiking cause. Most notable releases include the upside surprise to March core inflation, a strong pick-up in underlying wage momentum, generally ongoing strength in labour market activity, a rise in consumer confidence, and a more resilient looking housing market,”
Sky’s economics and data editor Ed Conway added: “Less than a month ago investors were betting the Bank of England interest rates would peak at 4.5 per cent or even 4.25%. “Now they’re betting they’ll hit 5.0 per cent this year. The highest projected rate since the mini-budget fallout. Another consequence of unexpectedly high and stubborn inflation.”
What does this mean?
Andy McBride, Director at Professional Contractor Mortgages had this to say “In my opinion, today’s rate increase is likely to have little impact on the new rates being offered by lenders for those looking to buy a new home or re-mortgage. Most lenders have already factored in the expected increase into their new product ranges”
CALCULATE HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE BY REMORTGAGING
Mc Bride went onto to say, “For me, the concerning comment is around the expectation that rates may now reach 5%, before settling and this could lead to an increase in borrowing costs for households. The team at PCM have been encouraging clients coming to the end of fixed rate mortgage, to engage in a conversation as early as 12 months before expiry. The team can start monitoring all the options for households to ensure they can secure the best rate possible as early as possible”
Good news for those renters looking to buy their first home?
Despite today’s announcement, Skipton Building Society have announced they are launching a 100% mortgage. The product is being labelled as “revolutionary” way to help contractors off the never ending treadmill of high rents. Whilst still yet to be officially launched, the new product will allow those who can demonstrate a 12-month track record of paying rent and all associated household bills qualify for a mortgage at a similar monthly costs. It is worth noting that this will be subject to a number of factors including but not limited to first time buyers, loan to income restrictions and a maximum loan of £600,000.
If you are looking at a new purchase or to remortgage at the end of your current deal, speak with one of the PCM team as soon as possible. The advice may be to hold tight, but 10 minutes of your time could help form a plan that could save you a lot of money and time in the future.
Call Professional Contractor Mortgages on 02394 212912 for specialist advice from our qualified mortgage brokers, or complete our online contact form here.
Permalink
Permalink