With Rachel Reeves’ first Budget now unveiled, many homeowners and prospective buyers are assessing a post-budget review for what the announcements mean for their finances, the mortgage landscape and the wider housing market. Headlines have focused heavily on the potential for slower rate reductions, possible tax changes and the impact of government borrowing, which has understandably created uncertainty.
At HFA Mortgage & Protection, our perspective is clear and measured. Markets always react to fiscal events, but the key is understanding how to navigate the environment rather than being driven by fear. Change does not remove opportunity; it reshapes it.
Post-Budget Review – Rates May Not Drop right now, but the Right Deals Are Still Out There
Much has been made of the fact that mortgage rates may not fall as rapidly as some hoped following the Chancellor’s plans. Factors such as gilt yields, government borrowing and market sentiment are likely to steady the pace of reductions.
However, it is vital to remember that the rates most people see, the ones on comparison sites or advertised by major high-street lenders, represent only a fraction of the mortgage market.
As a mortgage advisors, we regularly access:
- lenders not visible on Google or comparison sites
- exclusive broker-only products
- specialist solutions tailored for complex or unique circumstances
- competitive options for remortgaging, purchases and portfolio restructuring
While mainstream lenders may move cautiously, many specialist and mid-tier lenders react faster and price more competitively in changing markets.
Property Taxes and Market Adjustments Are Only Part of the Picture
Discussions within the Budget around potential property taxes have caused concern, particularly at the upper end of the market. While any taxation on higher-value homes may influence prices, it can also create positive effects across the wider market, including:
- more accessible pricing for buyers
- greater movement in previously stagnant property chains
- opportunities for those looking to upsize or downsize
- improved conditions for first-time buyers in overheated regions
A calmer market does not equate to a weaker one. In many cases, it becomes more balanced, predictable and supportive of long-term planning.
Uncertain Times Make Guidance More Important, Not Less
Economic events like the Budget often lead to assumptions that options are limited. The reality is the opposite. Periods of adjustment are when professional advice becomes most valuable.
Large lenders may tighten their criteria, but many alternative lenders assess applications more holistically, taking broader circumstances into account. Good advice can uncover options that borrowers would not find alone, and certainly would not see through a basic online search.
There are always mortgage solutions available; the difference lies in knowing how to reach them.
Our View: The Housing Market Remains Active and Full of Possibilities
Despite speculation, we continue to see strong engagement from first-time buyers, homeowners preparing for remortgage deadlines and landlords restructuring their portfolios. The market is moving, just differently. With the right guidance, those shifts can work in your favour.
In our post-budget review, Rachel Reeves’ Budget has undoubtedly shaped the next phase of the mortgage landscape, but it has not closed the door on opportunity. Far from it. It simply reinforces the importance of informed, independent advice.
At HFA Mortgage & Protection, we ensure that your decisions are based on the full picture, not the limited information presented by mainstream lenders or search engines.
Disclaimer:
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount of the fee will depend upon your circumstances but will range from £195 to £1500.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
