The Natwest Bank has announced a reduction to its tracker and fixed rate mortgage rates with cuts of up to 0.3 percent.
Most of the Natwest Bank mortgages have seen rate reductions of 0.1 percent, though a small number have had the full 0.3 percent taken off them, something anyone looking for a mortgage will appreciate. The bank has also introduced a three year tracker that steps down on its rate each year.
A spokesman discussing the rate cuts stated that the Natwest Bank was committed to doing what it could for borrowers in what are difficult times. They are pleased to be able to help both first time buyers and those moving on, feeling that both parts of the housing market need to be helped in order for growth to be seen.
In the current property situation it appears that the majority of homeowners improving their properties are doing so to increase its value according to the Halifax.
The Halifax survey found that around 28 percent of people are planning home improvements this year, with the primary objective being add value. Of these people around half of them are expecting to add in the region of GBP5,000 to what the property is worth, with over 10 percent aiming for between GBP10,000 and GBP25,000.
By far the most popular improvement is redecorating, followed by garden improvements and adding new furnishings. A Halifax spokesman said that home improvements can add value to a home, although expectations of higher property values should be balanced against a market where the buyer is stronger right now, so prices can be variable.
Find the best rate available on a Halifax mortgage and save money.
Some Abbey National mortgage customers, specifically those looking for fixed rate mortgages, are facing rate increases of up to 0.56 percent. This comes only a week after rates were reduced by the company.
The biggest increases are in the short term period fixed rate mortgages, with the 3 year one going up to 6.49 percent from 5.93 percent. The Abbey National is citing a major increase in swap rates for the rises, feeling they will force the Bank of England to increase the base rate.
An Abbey spokesman, aiming to explain the shifts in interest rate commented on their strong market position enabling them to reduce mortgage interest rates last week, but this latest news has forced them to increase them again.
