There’s plenty going on in the mortgage world right now – and if you’re thinking about buying a home, remortgaging, or supporting someone else to do so, staying up to date can really help you make informed decisions.
Here are four key developments worth knowing about this month:
1. Could borrowing limits be about to change?
Regulators are reviewing the long-standing rule that restricts most mortgage lending to no more than 4.5 times a borrower’s income.
At the moment, lenders can only offer mortgages above this threshold to a limited number of borrowers. But the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) are now consulting on whether this cap is still appropriate.
What could this mean?
If the rules are relaxed, more people – especially first-time buyers – might find it easier to borrow what they need, particularly in high-price areas. That said, this is a consultation, not a done deal, and any changes are likely to come with safeguards to avoid irresponsible lending.
2. Nationwide makes its Helping Hand mortgage more accessible
In a welcome move for lower-income borrowers, Nationwide has reduced the minimum income required to access its Helping Hand mortgage.
Previously, you’d need to be earning £40,000 a year to qualify – but that threshold has now dropped to £35,000 for individuals (and £55,000 for joint applicants). The Helping Hand mortgage allows borrowers to stretch their affordability a bit further – borrowing up to 6 times income in some cases.
What could this mean?
This change could help more people, particularly single applicants, get onto the property ladder—especially those in stable jobs but without high salaries.
3. Yorkshire Building Society helps over 800 buyers with £5k deposit mortgage
Since launching last year, Yorkshire Building Society’s £5k deposit mortgage has helped more than 800 first-time buyers purchase a home*.
The product, which allows buyers to borrow up to 99% of a property’s value, is designed to tackle the deposit hurdle many face when trying to get on the ladder. Eligible applicants need a minimum income of £40,000 and the product is available on selected new-build homes.
What could this mean?
For those struggling to save a full 5% deposit, this mortgage offers a valuable route to homeownership –particularly in areas where property prices make saving feel out of reach.
4. Global events are fuelling speculation about interest rate cuts
Global financial markets have been reacting to renewed trade tensions, particularly the prospect of US tariffs under a possible second Trump presidency. While that might seem far removed from UK mortgages, it’s feeding into wider economic expectations – especially when it comes to inflation and interest rates.
What could this mean?
Markets are now increasingly betting on a Bank of England base rate cut in the coming months, possibly as early as summer. If that happens, mortgage rates – particularly fixed deals – could come down further.
What to do now?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, remortgaging, or simply keeping an eye on the market, these updates show how quickly things can shift. Borrowing rules, lender policies, and global events all play a part in shaping the options available to you.
If you’re unsure how these changes could affect you – or want to talk through your own situation – speaking to a qualified mortgage adviser is always a smart move.
Need advice?
Chase de Vere offers fee-free, independent mortgage advice to help you navigate the market with confidence. Get in touch to find out how we can support you.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
* source: https://www.mortgagesolutions.co.uk/news/2025/04/08/yorkshire-bs-helps-over-800-ftbs-through-5k-deposit-mortgage/