When the financial crisis hit, the mortgage market haemorrhaged products hitting a low of 1,209 on 1 April 2009, say Moneyfacts.co.uk.
Since then, lenders have become accustomed to the post financial crisis world and the number of products available has steadily risen, hitting 2,053 today (a 70% increase). A significant proportion of the increase has occurred since the start of the year, when the number of mortgages available has increased by 28% (1,061 mortgages available)
Furthermore, it is the higher LTV mortgages that are witnessing the biggest percentage increases as lenders continue to relax their credit criteria.
Michelle Slade, spokesperson for Moneyfacts.co.uk commented:
“By increasing the numbers of mortgages, lenders are showing that they are open for business. “Increased availability brings increased competition and the mortgage market is finally seeing some of the most competitive deals of the last few years.
“Lenders are becoming more accommodating with their lending criteria, which bodes well for increasing the competitiveness of the mortgage market. It is pleasing to see that the average mortgage rate continues to fall, while at the same time deposit requirements are easing.
“House prices appear to have bottomed out, meaning higher LTV mortgages are a less risky option for lenders.
“For a long time, borrowers with a small deposit have had few options. Many will be hoping the positive trend continues, with increased competition reducing the cost of high LTV mortgages.
“Only then will first time buyers, many of whom are currently priced out of the market, be able to return.”
Justin Moy