Affordability remains a central constraint on UK buyer demand. West Brom has introduced a fee-free 95% loan-to-value purchase mortgage at 5.72%, while selected fixed-rate deals elsewhere are available at lower rates for borrowers with stronger equity positions. House prices were reported flat in September after a 0.3% fall in August, creating a more measured backdrop for first-time buyers.
The IMF has upgraded its UK growth forecast for the current year to 1.3%, but expects a slowdown in 2027. Advisers should frame product selection around the client’s full affordability position, likely time horizon and tolerance for payment changes—not simply headline rate. The proposed Your First Home scheme may also cause some purchasers to delay decisions while they await detail.