The Rettie Blog

The UK mortgage market is set for another pivotal year, with a significant number of borrowers approaching the end of their current deals.

The mortgage landscape today looks very different to the environment seen just a few years ago. While the Bank of England (BOE) has already taken significant action to address inflation through a series of base rate increases, the focus has now shifted towards how long rates will remain at current levels and whether further changes may still be required.

Recent analysis highlights that financial support from family is playing an increasingly significant role in the housing market.

Moving home is an exciting step, but it’s also a financial commitment, and understanding the true cost of your move is one of the best ways to prepare with confidence. At Rettie Financial Services, we help buyers and sellers across Scotland get clarity on what they can afford, what they’ll need to budget for, and how their move will work financially from start to finish.

Getting mortgage-ready is one of the most important steps a first-time buyer can take, and the earlier you start, the smoother the journey becomes. Lenders look at more than just income when assessing an application, so understanding how your finances are viewed can give you a real advantage. By focusing on a few key areas in advance, you can strengthen your position, improve your options, and approach your first purchase with confidence.

As we approach the end of 2025, I’ve been reflecting on how much the UK mortgage market has shifted over the past year. From changes in lender offerings to evolving affordability trends, it’s been a year of cautious optimism, innovation and opportunity. This blog takes you through the latest trends, lender updates and what we can expect as we move into 2026.

As the year draws to a close and the holiday season approaches, many of us take a moment to reflect on the past year and plan for the year ahead. While you’re celebrating with family and friends, it’s the perfect time to think about your financial well-being, starting with your mortgage. A little prep now can help set you up for long-term stability and savings.

In the lead-up to the end of 2025, it’s the perfect time to take a step back and assess your financial situation with a financial health check. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, but regularly reviewing your finances ensures you are on track for your goals and prepared for whatever the future may bring.

As we approach the holiday season, it's easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of presents, food, and family gatherings. But amidst the festivities, it’s important to take a step back and think about your family’s future security.

When it comes to your mortgage, the easiest choice might seem to be sticking with your current lender. But life changes and your mortgage should too. Remortgaging is more than just a way to save money; it’s an essential step in aligning your finances with your life goals, both now and in the future.

When Alan Cumming recently wrote in The Scotsman about the rising number of US residents eyeing a move to Scotland, it struck a chord. Alan noted in the article, “Scotland has replaced London as the most popular region for potential US movers to enquire about, with Edinburgh the most popular area…”

With interest rates expected to fall slightly over the next year or so, many buyers are asking the same question: is it better to wait or buy now?