'2008 a good year for repayments'
Fri 30 Nov 2007 4pm
With property prices expected to flatline next year, borrowers should use the time to make secured and unsecured
debt repayments, one expert has said.
According to Kate Tucker, spokeswoman for broker John Charcol, re
mortgage customers are advised to take a long-term view, while those with smaller repayments may find that a percentage fee is the best value.
She said the fact that two-year swap rates remain at 5.56 per cent strongly suggests that there will be a Bank of England rate cut in the near future.
"Lenders are using the rate and fee pricing of
mortgages to help affordability for borrowers, but this can be confusing when shopping around," she stated.
"Professional advice should be the first port of call for home owners who want the best deals now."
The Council of Mortgage Lenders is urging the Bank to consider a rate cut as soon as possible if homeowners are to afford repayments in 2008.
