Solve Mortgages

16/04/2026

13/03/2026

📈 Mortgage & Equity Release Rates: What’s Been Happening This Week

Over the past week, every major lender has increased both mortgage rates and equity release rates. This comes after a year of relative stability, where rates had been gradually trending downwards.

The recent rises are driven by volatility in the swap rate market and an increase in gilt yields, two key factors that influence the cost of fixed‑rate mortgages.

These movements are largely linked to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, which has created uncertainty across global financial markets.

Some smaller, privately funded lenders have even withdrawn entire product ranges and haven’t yet returned them to the market.

🔒 Why this matters for borrowers

I always encourage clients to avoid trying to “time the market” based on short‑term rate movements. No one can predict what’s around the corner, and recent events are a perfect example of how quickly things can change. Choosing a longer‑term fixed rate can provide stability and protect your monthly payments from sudden market shocks.

🏦 Looking ahead

The Bank of England meets next Thursday. Given the current global situation, a rate reduction now looks unlikely. Rising oil and gas prices may also feed into wider inflation, which could mean the base rate remains at 3.75% or potentially increases.

As always, I’ll continue monitoring the market closely and will keep clients updated so they can make informed, confident decisions.

09/03/2026

Today marks five years since the dreaded phone call asking me to come to the hospital and to bring my wife. We both knew it wasn’t going to be good news, but nothing prepares you for what came next.

“I’m sorry to tell you… you have Acute Myeloid Leukaemia.”

I knew something wasn’t right, but hearing those words still knocks the air out of you.

Thankfully, the incredible team in Haematology at St James’s Hospital in Leeds, Anthony Nolan, advances in medical science, and the tireless work of charities like Blood Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK means I’m one of the lucky ones. It was great to see the news this morning that Cancer Research UK reports an 11% fall in cancer death rates over the past decade — progress that genuinely saves lives like mine.

A serious illness doesn’t always have to be the end of your story. I studied for my CeMAP and CeRER exams in hospital just to pass the time. Since recovering from my stem cell transplant, I’ve started my own business and I’m out riding with the Saturday Gang — a brilliant bunch of cyclists aged 27 to 65. That alone shows what’s possible at any age… though it definitely helps having the almighty Jesus with us (the guy with the stripy beard) 🙏

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: don’t give up. Not on yourself, not on your future, not on the possibility that things can get better even when life feels impossible. There were days I couldn’t see past the next hour, never mind the next five years, but here I am. Progress happens quietly, strength builds slowly, and hope has a way of returning when you least expect it. Keep going. You never know what the next chapter might hold.

16/01/2026

📉 A bit of good news in the mortgage world…

After a couple of years of turbulence, UK mortgage rates have been remarkably steady over the past six months and many lenders have been quietly trimming their rates again, with several making further reductions in just the last few weeks. A welcome shift for anyone keeping an eye on the market.

But here’s the big headline: around 1.7 million fixed-rate mortgage deals are due to end this year.

If you’re one of them, it’s worth knowing what to expect.

🏡 When your fixed rate is coming to an end, your lender will write to you roughly 3 months before the deal expires.

That letter is your cue, it’s the perfect time to start comparing options, checking what else is available, and making sure you’re not rolling onto a higher rate than you need to.

A bit of preparation now can make a big difference to your monthly payments later. If you want help understanding your options or exploring what the market looks like, just get in touch always happy to help make things clearer.

06/01/2026

Is Your Fixed‑Rate Mortgage Ending This Year? Let’s Find Your Best Next Step

When your fixed rate comes to an end, you’ll usually have two main options and understanding the difference can help you avoid paying more than you need to.

🔹 Product Transfer (Staying With Your Current Lender)

A product transfer is often the simplest route. You stay with your existing lender and switch to a new rate before your current deal ends. There’s no legal work involved, and it’s usually quick and straightforward.

🔹 Remortgage (Moving to a New Lender)

A remortgage allows you to switch to a different lender if they’re offering a better rate or a product that suits you more. Many lenders include free valuations and free legal work, but there can still be additional costs such as legal disbursements or a higher first payment depending on the timing.

Why Choose Solve Mortgages?

At Solve Mortgages, we:

• Search the whole of the market to find the most suitable deal for your circumstances.

• Track rates right up to completion, so you don’t miss out if something better becomes available. If you go direct to a lender, they will not tell you if a new lower rate becomes available.

• Explain all potential costs clearly, so there are no surprises.

• Work with trusted solicitors and conveyancers who offer fully packaged services, including disbursements, for complete peace of mind.

If your fixed rate ends this year, now is the perfect time to explore your options and stay ahead of any changes.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

01/01/2026

Happy New Year. Here’s to a healthy and happy 2026 for all.

03/12/2025

🏡 The Right Time to Begin Your Mortgage Journey

First-Time Buyers & Home Movers

If you’re buying your first home or moving to a new one, it pays to start your mortgage journey before you begin viewing properties. Doing so helps reduce stress and avoid disappointment.

By knowing exactly what you can borrow and what your monthly payments might look like, you’ll save valuable time and avoid falling in love with homes that are outside your budget.

Current Mortgage Deal Ending

If your mortgage deal is coming to an end, the best time to start looking is around 3 months before. Most lenders release new deals at this stage, giving you a clear idea of what to expect. It’s also the perfect opportunity to explore remortgaging with a new lender, potentially unlocking better rates and products.

Interest-Only Mortgage Approaching Term End

If your interest-only mortgage is nearing the end of its term, don’t leave things to the last minute. Starting early can save you a lot of stress.

You might be considering options such as using a pension lump sum, switching to a repayment mortgage, or exploring equity release. These solutions can take longer than expected, so planning ahead is key.

✨ At Solve Mortgages, we’re here to guide you through every stage of your mortgage journey — making the process clear, stress-free, and tailored to your needs.

** YOUR HOME OR PROERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP WITH YOUR MORTGAGE REPAYMENTS **

04/11/2025

🏡 Mortgage Rates – Made Simple 🏡

Mortgage jargon can feel like a maze of confusing terms. Here's a quick guide to help you find your way:

🔒 Fixed Rate – Your interest stays the same for a set period (usually 2–5 years). Great for budgeting and peace of mind.

💸 Discounted Rate – A temporary reduction on the lender’s standard variable rate (SVR). It can rise or fall, so it’s cheaper upfront but less predictable.

📈 Tracker Rate – Moves in line with the Bank of England base rate. If the base rate goes up or down, so does your mortgage.

🌊 Variable Rate – Set by the lender and can change at any time. You’re at the mercy of market movements, but often more flexible.

Each option has its pros and cons depending on your goals, income, and risk comfort. If you're unsure which suits you best, I'm here to help.



📌 Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.