An Own New Rate Reducer mortgage is a new product which has been launched to help first time buyers with the cost of their monthly mortgage payments, allowing buyers to purchase a new build home with a lower interest rate mortgage. It’s a normal mortgage, just with lower monthly payments for the initial two-year or five-year fixed period.
The Building Societies Association’s Property Tracker Report from March 2024 shows that the recent interest rate rises have meant that the affordability of mortgage repayments remains the biggest challenge facing prospective first time buyers. Own New’s newest product aims to help with this problem.
How does it work?
Pocket has partnered with Own New, who work behind the scenes with mortgage lenders to reduce the cost involved with mortgage loans on new build properties. The reduction is funded by a contribution by Pocket towards the cost of the mortgage and enables the mortgage lender to offer buyers more competitive interest rates during the initial two-year or five-year fixed period of their mortgage.
A purchaser would obtain advice from an independent mortgage adviser (IMA) who is trained on the Rate Reducer scheme. Then once a purchaser has reserved a Pocket home and the purchase is proceeding, Pocket would liaise with Own New to arrange for the lower mortgage rate to be applied to the purchaser’s mortgage. The contribution from Pocket would be paid to Own New when the sale completes (completion is when you get your keys!)
What mortgage rates are available?
Mortgage rates will depend on a number of factors, such as the size of the buyer’s deposit, the lender, the level of incentive available, and whether an initial fixed term of two years or five years is taken out. In some circumstances, particularly when a buyer has a larger deposit, rates below 1% could be available.
Buyers can choose between two and five-year fixed terms, depending on the lender’s criteria.
Where is Own New Rate Reducer available?
An Own New Rate Reducer mortgage is currently available on Pocket homes at Addiscombe Grove CR0.
Buyer’s will need to meet the Pocket eligibility criteria for Addiscombe Grove CR0. Eligibility is at Pocket’s discretion, subject to receiving regulated advice from an independent mortgage advisor, and is subject to lender terms and conditions.
The thought of owning your first home is undoubtedly exciting, but for a lot of people it can also feel daunting (and financially impossible), especially in London’s market. Thankfully, there are lifelines. Initiatives and schemes like Pocket and First Homes are designed to help you on your journey to homeownership by giving you a discount on your first home. The two are somewhat similar and sometimes confused but there are crucial differences, so in this blog we’ll be shedding some light on exactly what Pocket and the First Homes scheme are, and how they compare. It’s important for you to make an informed decision that aligns with your homeownership goals when choosing how to buy, so whether you’re exploring your options or ready to take the leap, this blog is a must-read.
What is the First Homes scheme?
The First Homes scheme is a government scheme that offers newly built homes at a minimum discount of 30% of the market price to first-time buyers and key workers in England. To be eligible, you must be a first-time buyer, purchasing the property to live in as your sole residence, and have a combined household income of £80,000 or less (£90,000 in London).
What is Pocket?
Similarly, Pocket provides discounted homes for first-time buyers – exclusively in London. Our properties are specifically designed for Londoners (those who make our vibrant city what it is – we call them city makers) who are struggling to get onto the property ladder. To be eligible, applicants must also meet certain criteria, including being a first-time buyer, having a maximum household income of £90,000, and, sometimes (when a scheme is first launched for sale), living or working in the borough of the development. Pocket offers well-designed, energy-efficient homes sold at 20% less than the market rate.
What’s the difference between Pocket and First Homes?
At first glance, these schemes can look very similar, but there is one key difference: the absence of the First Homes scheme in London. Now, before we jump to conclusions, it’s not that developers aren’t keen to build First Homes in the city, but it’s very difficult for developers to offer homes at First Homes discount levels in London. Pocket, however has a different model which does allow us to offer 20% discounted homes, still at 100% ownership. Rather than simply discounting standard new-build homes (as with First Homes), the Pocket model works because we have developed a unique and efficient one-bedroom layout designed to suit the needs and lifestyles of those looking to get onto the property ladder in London, which we are able to offer at a discounted price.
Ultimately, the decision between buying using the First Homes Scheme or buying with Pocket depends on individual circumstances, including financial considerations, lifestyle preferences (including whether you want to live in London), and housing needs. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, first-time buyers can make an informed choice that aligns with their homeownership goals.
Visit pocketliving.com and get started on your homeownership journey today. By creating your My Pocket account, you can explore the range of 20% discount, 100% ownership homes tailored for you.
So, it’s officially 2024 and you’ve decided that this is the year you’re going to begin your homeownership journey. It may be tempting to hop straight on to Zoopla and start browsing homes, but unfortunately you’ve got a little way to go before that step, first you’ll need to save for your mortgage deposit.
In this blog, we’re uncovering the most practical and effective ways to save money in 2024 – NOT including sacrificing your social life or keeping your wallet under lock and key.
Set Financial Goals
Your first port of call is to set your financial goals. You’ll need to fully understand your budget in order know what exactly you’re aiming towards and how you’ll save for your mortgage deposit.
Understand your budget: Begin by evaluating your monthly income and spending. Differentiate between essential spending, like bills and food shops, and non-essential spending. This will help you allocate funds wisely whilst creating your budget.
Create a savings timeline: A well planned timeline will keep you on track and motivated during your savings journey. Make sure you set achievable goals and stick to them!
Potential costs and expenses: It’s important to be aware of costs that might creep up on you. Make sure you have an emergency pot with enough money to tie you over should you have any surprise expenses, like car trouble (or a last minute birthday present for your Mum).
Budgeting Tips
It’s one thing to understand your budget, now it’s time to implement those saving strategies.
Cut down on unnecessary expenses: Identify non-essentials, like unused subscriptions or impulse buys, and wave goodbye. Redirect those funds into your first home fund. It’s about creating space for what really matters.
Utilise budgeting apps for tracking: Budgeting apps such as Snoop and Emma will help you to stay on tracks and enable you too see all of your spending and upcoming payments in one place. Some will highlight wasteful subscriptions, and some give you ways to save based on where you spend.
Spending Habits
It’ll be tricky to save for your mortgage deposit if you’re still splashing your cash willy-nilly. Here are a couple ways you can rein it in.
Make informed purchasing decisions: It’s time to adjust your mindset to make every penny count. Instead of impulse buys, try digging into reviews, comparing prices, and snagging deals.
Explore affordable alternatives: Craving your morning latte fix from Gail’s or a fancy dinner out? Explore affordable alternatives! Opt for homemade coffee or a cosy night in with friends. Small changes add up, leaving more cash for your first home fund.
Income Boosting Strategies
As well as saving, it’s worth thinking about ways that you can boost your income to reach your mortgage deposit.
Exploring additional income streams: Consider exploring side hustles. Whether it’s freelancing, tutoring, or turning a hobby into cash, these additional income streams can fast-track your journey to homeownership.
Remember, saving for your mortgage deposit isn’t about skipping the fun stuff – it’s about making savvy choices that align with your goals. From budgeting to exploring side gigs, every step counts toward your dream home. So, sip your homemade coffee and know that each penny saved gets you closer to that front door key. Here’s to getting one step closer to saying “home sweet home”!
Visit pocketliving.com and get started on your homeownership journey today. By creating your My Pocket account, you can explore the range of 20% discount, 100% ownership homes tailored for you.
In a world filled with clickbait headlines and seemingly endless debates about the right time to buy a home, it’s easy to feel like you’re caught in a whirlwind of uncertainty. But guess what? Amid all the noise, there’s one simple truth that stands tall and steadfast: Now could very well be the perfect time for first-time buyers to embark on their homeownership journey. We interviewed seasoned Mortgage Advisor, Anthony Hall, to explore why, despite what you might have heard about mortgage interest rates, the time to buy is now.
Current Market Overview
Let’s start with the big question: Is now the right time to buy? To find out, we’re diving deep into the mortgage market with the guidance of Anthony Hall, an expert with 16 years of experience in the mortgage industry, including 12 years helping Pocket buyers onto the ladder.
What are Mortgage Rates Today? The last update on the base rate was in September 2023, when the Bank of England maintained it at 5.25%. The base rate remaining unchanged at 5.25% is good news for the mortgage market as new borrowers are boosted by the base rate being held as lenders use the BOE base rate when calculating their stress test rate. When the rate rises this in turn reduces the amount of borrowing available to purchasers. Mortgage borrowers on variable rates or trackers will be breathing a sigh of relief as they will not see an increase in their monthly payments which has gone up 5 times this year!
According to Anthony, “the current mortgage market is, I would say, currently stable.” However, it’s been a journey to this point. Following a rollercoaster ride of interest rate fluctuations, the market has landed on a steadier path. What once felt like financial whiplash due to volatile rates has now evolved into a more predictable landscape. Factors like inflation, the Bank of England’s rate adjustments, and lender responses have all played their part in the market’s ups and downs.
Historical Mortgage Rate Trends Let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Anthony’s expertise is instrumental in navigating these waters and he highlighted an essential point: the current rates, while seemingly high in today’s context, are comfortably within the historical average. For the past quarter-century, the norm has hovered around 5%. The record-low rates we’ve grown accustomed to in recent years following the 2008 financial crisis were the real anomaly. Yes, we’ve been spoiled by those low rates, but in reality we’re returning to a more typical interest rate scenario, akin to that of 2008 when rates exceeded 7% for some buyers. We’re heading toward a market where 3% to 5% interest rates are the new normal. The good news? We’re not expecting rates to crash anytime soon. It’s all about settling into a healthier, more sustainable range.
What does this mean for the average homebuyer? In Anthony’s words, “if you can afford a mortgage now and get a fixed rate for five years, your rate won’t change during that time.” It’s about securing financial predictability. While the crystal ball remains elusive, the outlook is one of gradual, measured rate increases. The takeaway? Buying a home today, with a manageable fixed-rate mortgage, can set you on a path to financial stability and potential long-term gains. History has shown that property in the UK consistently appreciates, and despite occasional dips in reported growth rates, the underlying value remains robust.
The Downsides of Waiting to Buy a House
Here’s the deal: when you put off buying a home, you’re not just hitting the pause button on homeownership. You’re also missing out on a world of potential benefits. Let’s delve into why waiting might not be the best move.
First and foremost, it’s all about opportunity. So you’ve got your eye on a brand-new property, and it ticks all your dream home boxes. The catch? New builds tend to have limited availability. So while you’re contemplating your options, someone else might swoop in and claim your ideal property. When it comes to securing that perfect place, hesitation could cost you more than you think.
Now, let’s talk finances. Renting is like pouring your hard-earned money into a bottomless pit. Every month, you’re handing over your cash without building equity or investing in your future. Plus, there’s the looming spectre of rent increases. As interest rates go up, landlords may decide to pass those costs onto you. So that sweet rental deal you’ve got today might not look so great in the near future.
Average rental value for new tenancies in London according to Home Let Rents in London have increased by 13.0% compared to last year.
Security matters, too. Renting means you’re at the mercy of your landlord’s plans. They might decide to sell the property, forcing you to pack your bags and find a new place to call home. That’s hardly the stable and secure future you envision, is it?
Then there’s the question of interest rates. Anthony puts it bluntly: “We don’t know what’s going to happen definitively with interest rates.” Waiting for them to drop might leave you in a never-ending waiting game. While rates aren’t likely to return to the super-low levels of the past, they’re also not skyrocketing uncontrollably. So the real question is: when do you decide it’s the right interest rate for you? The sooner you start paying down your mortgage, the quicker you’re building equity and securing your financial future.
So, when you consider all these factors, it’s pretty clear – waiting might not be the wisest move. You could be missing out on the perfect property, wasting money on rent, and forfeiting the security and equity that come with homeownership. It’s time to seize the day and embark on your homeownership journey. Your future self will thank you.
Is now the right time to buy for you?
There are a number of things to consider when contemplating if now really is the right time for you to buy.
Anthony stresses the importance of understanding your current financial standing. He remarks, “A lot of people don’t realise that they are in a position to buy because they haven’t been assessed or received proper advice.” The first step he suggests is getting a clear picture of your affordability. Start by creating a budget planner. Analyse your recent pay stubs and bank statements, meticulously documenting your income and expenses. This budget planner becomes your invaluable tool for determining what’s genuinely affordable each month. Anthony recommends, “Look for a mortgage affordability calculator online to assist you in this process.”
Credit Check
In addition to your budget, your credit report plays a pivotal role in the affordability equation. Anthony advises, “Take a close look at your credit history and reports to understand where you stand.” Outstanding commitments, such as car loans and credit card balances, impact your borrowing capacity, which, in turn, defines what you can afford to purchase. Keeping your credit history in check ensures you’re in the best position to secure a mortgage that aligns with your goals.
Life Goals and Needs
Here’s the exciting twist – your decision to buy a home isn’t just about market trends. It’s about your unique life goals and needs. Anthony’s take? “The right time to buy is when you can afford it.” Waiting for the stars to align in the market can be like waiting for a unicorn sighting – uncertain and lengthy. Meanwhile, you could be pouring your hard-earned cash into rent or living in a place that doesn’t quite fit your vibe. So, if your life goals and needs harmonise with homeownership, don’t wait for the market’s permission slip.
Addiscombe Grove CR0, Croydon
The Decision to Wait
Once you’ve conducted your affordability assessment and it aligns with your current budget, the question arises: should you wait for market conditions to shift, or is it time to take the plunge? Anthony offers a clear perspective: “The right time to buy is when you can afford it.” Waiting for interest rates to fluctuate or for headlines to declare an optimal moment can be a protracted, uncertain endeavour. During this wait, you could be spending substantial sums on rent or residing in a place that doesn’t quite suit your preferences. Anthony reinforces the point that “if you can afford to buy, waiting for market changes might not be the best course of action.”
3 Tips for first time buyers
In essence, the decision to buy a home is not solely driven by market dynamics but by your unique circumstances and financial capacity. Anthony suggests, “Speak to experts who understand the intricacies of interest rates and mortgages. They can provide tailored advice and guide you toward a decision that’s right for you.”
Tip 1: Income Insights First off, your income – it’s a game-changer when it comes to mortgages. Anthony says, “Different lenders treat your income differently.” If you’re the proud owner of a P60, get it ready. If you’re self-employed, gather those tax overviews and financial statements. And hey, if you’ve got an accountant, give them a shout – they’re like financial wizards for these kinds of things. Understanding how your income plays into the mortgage puzzle is your ticket to making the right moves.
Tip 2: Savings Savvy Now, let’s talk savings – the magic potion for a hefty deposit. Anthony advises, “Understand how much savings and deposit you’ll potentially have access to.” Whether it’s a generous gift from family or friends, get all the deets lined up. The more you know about your deposit, the clearer the borrowing picture becomes. Plus, it’s like having the answers before the big test – confidence booster, right? Oh, and here’s a pro tip: Check your credit report. Grab one for free from credit agencies, scrutinise it, and if you spot any hiccups, sort them out. Clean credit makes for smooth sailing in the mortgage world.
Tip 3: Budget Brilliance Lastly, let’s get down to brass tacks – your budget. Anthony’s top advice? “Put together a detailed budget planner.” Knowing how much you can comfortably spend each month is like having a superpower. It not only helps you choose the right mortgage but also lets you explore the mortgage products that are tailor-made for you. So, dive into your expenses and income, and emerge with a budget that’s your trusty sidekick on this homeownership journey.
In the world of real estate, the waiting game often leads to missed opportunities. The current mortgage market is stable, with rates favourable compared to historical trends. Hall emphasises that homeownership offers security, equity, and freedom from the rent cycle, So why wait for the perfect moment if you can make it now?
Visit pocketliving.com and get started on your homeownership journey today. By creating your My Pocket account, you can explore the range of 20% discount, 100% ownership homes tailored for you.
It’s that time of year again where we all start thinking about sprucing up our homes for the warmer months ahead. If the thought of spring cleaning fills you with dread, then read on for 10 tips that will make the process a breeze!
So, you’re a first time buyer. You dream of getting onto the property ladder but it seems totally overwhelming… sound familiar? We can help! Buying your first home can be daunting, but it needn’t be. Here we have broken down the process so you have a step by step guide on how to buy a home.
For many first time buyers, the most daunting part of the home buying process is saving for a house deposit. In particular, many wonder how to save for a house on a lower income and whether it’s even possible to do it at all.
Pocket Living is built around the idea that everyone should have a fair opportunity to get onto the housing ladder, so we’re going to share our best tips on saving for your first home, whatever your circumstances. We’ve included a range of information on ISAs, bank accounts and more to show you that there are plenty of options to consider to get yourself onto the housing ladder. Let’s get started.
The UK’s rising cost of living has affected us all, but if you’re a first time buyer, you might feel particularly keen to keep your finances in check. If you’re wondering how to save money on gas and electric bills, there are many simple ways to reduce your outgoings, particularly by living more sustainably.
Our residents are first time buyers on middle incomes, so we know how important it is to them to make savings wherever possible. Buying a new build home is a great start, and by making an energy savings plan, you can reduce your bills and rest assured that you’re taking measures to live more efficiently and cut down on unnecessary costs.
Read on to find out our tips for saving money on your bills. They may seem small but can make a big difference over time, so start now to let the pennies begin to add up!
This Second Hand September, we’ve teamed up with Haule, an online marketplace for vintage and second hand homeware, to talk about furnishing your first home. Second Hand September was created by Oxfam in 2019 and has inspired thousands of people to shop in a way that is kinder to people and the planet.
We invited Haule to give some advice on furnishing your first home using vintage and second hand items. Read on to find out what they have to say.
Buying a home is an investment in your future – but when you do it for the first time, it can feel really daunting. Considering the doom and gloom we hear every day on the news, it may seem particularly risky to take that next step. That’s why we asked Censeo Financial, our recommended Independent Mortgage Advisor, their thoughts on the benefits of buying a home right now, rather than waiting.
