Struggling Homeowners Need to Talk to Lenders
Over the past couple of years homeowners in the UK have faced severe problems when it comes to keeping on top of their mortgage loan repayments, with one problem after another affecting their ability to pay. Between August 2006 and July 2007 a series of five interest rate hikes of 0.25% each left many homeowners on variable rate mortgage struggling to make repayments. However, in July 2007 until December 2007 the base rate came to a standstill, although it was still high and therefore homeowners were still having problems with repayments.
Thankfully in December of last year the Bank of England cut the base rate by 0.25%, and there have been a further two 0.25% base rate cuts this year. However, whilst this should have eased the pressure for homeowners in many cases this has not happened. Despite the base rate cuts the cost of borrowing has continued to rise due to the effects of the global credit crunch. In addition to this credit conditions have become far tighter, making it difficult for homeowners to switch to a more cost effective deal. And to make matters worse the cost of living, such as petrol and food, as well as a range of bills have shot up in cost, causing real strain in household finances.
One official from the Council of Mortgage Lenders has stated that anyone that is struggling with their mortgage needs to ensure that they contact their lenders as soon as possible in order to discuss a suitable solution, adding that there are a number of solutions that lenders can offer. He said: “They might consider re-scheduling the loan, and there are possibilities for extending the term of the loans which could reduce payments. All of these will depend on what’s suitable in the individual’s circumstances, the lender and the borrower need to sit down and work out a plan that fits the individual’s circumstances.”


