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Help to buy 2 scheme – what we know

04.10.13

Originally set to start on 1st January 2014, this scheme now starts, er, next week! This no doubt politically motivated move is remarkable as one of the key issues was whether or not lenders would be ready for January, let alone October. Undoubtedly, this will increase demand as more 95% Loan To Value mortgages become available and with housing stock still constrained no doubt prices will rise.

Whether this ultimately causes a “bubble” is one of extreme debate.

Whilst there are still a couple of important details that are unknown, like how much will the cost be to lenders and will they get much needed capital relief within the scheme, I know from personal experience that many people have questions so here is a brief guide.

Help To Buy 2

The aim is to encourage lenders to offer more 85%, 90% and 95% mortgages

  • The government provides the lender with a guarantee, which the lender pays a fee for, of up to 15% of the loan amount. This is not a loan to the borrower but simply insurance between the lender and the government.
  • The guarantee last for 7 years
  • Scheme to run for 3 years but reviewed each year by the Bank of England who can change the terms if house prices are rising too fast.
  • Available on purchase and remortgage for properties up to £600,000
  • Applicants must only have one property
  • Must be a repayment mortgage and in personal name

 

What does this mean?

It should mean more availability of 90% and 95% mortgages which should in turn lead to cheaper rates at that level. This means more borrowers will be able to buy with smaller deposits which should increase demand for property. Lenders will still have tight underwriting standards at this level and affordability will be strict.

The only lenders so far to say they will participate are the state-backed lenders Halifax, RBS and NatWest but others should follow suit in due course.

I will of course update you as we learn more…

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Andrew Montlake

Written by Andrew Montlake

Andrew Montlake, better known as Monty, began his journey with an Hons degree in Economics & Politics before starting in the mortgage industry in February 1994. As a main founder of Coreco in 2009, he successfully grew the brand, marketing, and communications, and was made MD in 2019 focussing on the overall vision, strategy, and culture of the company. As Coreco’s media spokesperson, Andrew can often be seen or heard on TV and radio as well as regularly commenting in the national, local, and trade press. He is the author of this acclaimed Mortgage Blog and is well-known for his social media, podcasts, and public speaking. Andrew is now proud to serve as Chairman of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries, (AMI) as a cheerleader for the Mortgage Industry as a whole and continues to work at the coal face, writing mortgage business and advising clients.

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