Mortgage Insider

The UK rental market has undergone significant change following the introduction of the Renters Rights Act 2025, with new rules around tenancies, the end of Section 21, rent increases, tenant selection and how landlords can regain possession of a property. But what do these reforms mean in practice for landlords and renters, and what should mortgage brokers be aware of when advising their buy-to-let clients? In the latest episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, and Catherine Westerling, Executive Head of Residential Lettings UK at Hamptons, to consider what they mean for the private rented sector. The discussion covers assured periodic tenancy agreements and Section 8 eviction grounds, alongside new landlord rent increase rules and growing tenant referencing problems. It also looks at the wider buy-to-let market, from the continuing imbalance between rental supply and demand to…

Around 1.8 million fixed rate mortgages are expected to mature over the course of 2026, underlining the scale of the UK remortgage market. And with many borrowers potentially facing higher monthly payments, understanding the options available at maturity is increasingly important for a range of homeowners. In the latest episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Caroline Ambrose, Managing Director of Mortgage Customer Journeys for Barclays UK, and Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfacts, to discuss what the changing remortgage market means for brokers and their clients. Drawing on Bank of England mortgage data, they consider the potential payment shock facing borrowers, with around 750,000 customers currently paying rates below 3% due to come off their existing deals by the end of 2026. The episode explores product transfer vs remortgage, mortgage rate volatility and the launch of the new Barclays Fast Track remortgage proposition, designed to…

The UK housing affordability crisis continues to reshape the path to homeownership, with more young adults relying on family support than ever before. Host Phil Spencer is joined by Hannah Aldridge, Senior Research and Policy Analyst at the Resolution Foundation, and James Tatch, Principal and Head of Analytics at UK Finance. Together, they explore the growing role of the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ and the rise of the ‘Hotel of Mum and Dad’ as strategies to overcome one of the biggest barriers in the market, which is deposit. With saving timelines now stretching beyond a decade for many, and nearly 2 in 5 young adults living with their parents, their conversation reflects the reality facing first-time buyers across the UK today. Drawing on insights from across the market, the discussion also looks at how lenders are responding through mortgage product innovation, from guarantor mortgages to higher loan-to-value options. The episode also addresses the broader challenges shaping the market, including…

AI is playing an increasingly important role in the mortgage and home buying journey; shaping how consumers, brokers and the wider industry engage with technology, where trust sits, and what comes next. Host Phil Spencer is joined by Dr. Carol McNaughton Nicholls, Managing Partner at Thinks Insight & Strategy and expert on human behaviour and financial decision making, and Chris Williams, Founder & Managing Partner of Novus Strategy, specialising in digital transformation across the property ecosystem. Drawing on insights from across the market, their conversation explores how innovation is transforming the mortgage journey, while highlighting the areas where human expertise still remains critical with AI around. From AI-powered mortgage advice in the UK to the growing use of AI tools by brokers, they explore where the technology is already delivering impact. With consumer sentiment evenly split, 18% of UK consumers are enthusiastic AI adopters, matched by another 18% who remain sceptical, AI adoption is…

The Scotland housing market 2026 continues to stand apart and for any mortgage broker Scotland-based, understanding the Scottish property market is key. In this episode of Mortgage Insider, host Phil Spencer is joined by Colleen Badcock (Rightmove, Head of Partner Marketing and Property Expert) and Lynne Peterkin (First Mortgage, Managing Director, Scotland) to explore what it really takes to buy a house in Scotland. From how the Home Report shapes pricing and bidding, to the realities of offers over and the speed of transactions, they unpack how the Scottish system works including how long it takes to buy a house in Scotland, compared to Scotland vs England conveyancing speed. With high demand from first-time buyers in Scotland, the conversation shares practical Scotland first-time buyer tips and how to get on the property ladder in Scotland. We also cover the technical detail such as Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), the Scotland additional dwelling supplement tax, whether Scotland is a seller’s…

The 2026 housing market is shaping up to be a story of returning demand set against a continuing housing supply crisis, with new build homes at the centre of the challenge. In this episode of Mortgage Insider, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Neil Jefferson, Chief Executive of the Home Builders Federation, and Craig Hall, Director of Strategic Partnerships at LSL Financial Services, to explore the latest property market outlook and what it means in practice. The discussion looks at how planning delays and policy changes are influencing new build delivery, and how this is affecting demand across the UK. It also explores current mortgage trends, how lenders are adapting, and the role mortgage rates and affordability play in shaping buyer behaviour. A key part of the conversation focuses on first-time buyer challenges and the growing debate around Help to Buy alternatives. It also considers how homebuilders are adjusting to current conditions, and what this means for brokers. This episode…

There has been no shortage of change in the UK economy, and mortgage brokers are having to help potential and existing homeowners interpret fast-moving headlines, swap rate turbulence and the potential direction of Bank of England interest rates. In this episode of Mortgage Insider, Phil Spencer is joined by Julian Lafarge, Chief Market Strategist at Barclays Private Bank, and David Baker, Managing Director of Brooks Mortgages, to break down what is driving current conditions and what brokers should focus on. They explore the link between oil prices, inflation expectations and central bank decisions, alongside the latest UK inflation forecast and what it could mean for future interest rate hikes. The discussion also explores the role of swap rates, why market pricing can shift so quickly, how the fixed rate mortgage market is being impacted, and what can learned from previous periods of disruption, from the credit crunch to more recent geopolitical shocks. The episode also looks at the human side of market…

For many first-time buyers, the home buying process can feel confusing, full of jargon and hard to follow. And with affordability concerns and rate changes still shaping the UK housing market, securing a first-time buyer mortgage can feel more daunting than ever for all too many. In this episode of Mortgage Insider, Phil Spencer is joined by Louise Baxter MBE, co-CEO of Consumer Friend, and Kate Faulkner OBE, Chair of the Home Buying and Selling Council and founder of PropertyChecklists.co.uk, to discuss how the experience of buying a house can be improved for first-time buyers. They explore why clearer language and better communication are vital when arranging a first-time buyer mortgage, and how many people still struggle to ask questions if they do not fully understand the information being shared. The discussion also looks at how the challenge can be even greater for neurodivergent buyers, including those with dyslexia. Complex language, the volume of documentation and unclear explanations can make the…

The home buying process remains slow and uncertain for all too many. On average, it now takes around 120 days to complete a property purchase in the UK, a sharp rise since 2007, and around one in three deals still falls through. The cost of failed property transactions runs into billions each year and creates stress for buyers, sellers and mortgage intermediaries alike. In this episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Justin Young, CEO of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), and Claire Beardmore, Director of L&G Mortgage Club, to look at why the home buying process takes so long and what could help improve outcomes across the market. The discussion looks at how poor timing and late checks add delay, why repeating property surveys and searches wastes time and money, and how doing more work upfront could allow steps to run side by side rather than one after the other. They also explore what England can learn from Scotland’s home report system, as well as other…

Welcome to the award-winning Mortgage Insider - back for 2026. Property expert and TV presenter Phil Spencer MBE will once again guide you through the trials and tribulations of the housing world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For mortgage intermediaries, few periods have felt as complex or fast-moving as they are today. Keeping track of regulations, understanding the impact of AI, and managing rising client uncertainty in the current political climate are among the biggest challenges shaping the advice process. In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Stephanie Charman, CEO of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI). Together, they discuss how the trade body provides clear, practical guidance to more than 80% of the UK’s intermediary community, helping them navigate an ever-evolving environment. The discussion examines how technology is reshaping advice and asks the critical question - can technology keep up with regulations? Steph also highlights the ongoing importance of protection and the need to close the protection gap, while sharing how AMI’s ‘Working in Mortgages’ initiative is helping attract and retain new, diverse talent across the industry.…

Forecasting into 2026 is already being shaped by lingering economic uncertainty, shifting consumer trends and tighter consumer spending. With the labour market slowing, the unemployment rate edging up and the impact of AI changing early-career roles, these pressures are influencing confidence, demand and how homebuyers and homeowners plan their next steps. This special episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, recorded live at Barclays HQ in London, brings host Phil Spencer together with Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times, Richard Donnell, Executive Director for Research at Zoopla, and Lee Hopley, Director of Economic Insight and Research at UK Finance, to explore these themes and much more. They tackle inflation, rising household bills and tax changes, and why younger households feel less certain about pay and job security. The discussion also looks at the growing role of the Bank of Mum and Dad, regional contrasts, changes in buy-to-let, the move towards more structured portfolios, the…

2024 saw a record number of fraud cases filed with the National Fraud Database. While mortgage fraud still represents a small proportion of overall UK fraud, there is a reported 5% increase in the number of mortgage fraud cases involving false application. In the latest instalment of the Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Mike Haley, CEO of CIFAS, and Nicola Mawby, Financial Crime Manager at Mortgage Advice Bureau. Together, they examine the different types of mortgage fraud, including application fraud, manipulated income, identity misuse, money laundering and scheme abuse. The discussion goes beyond definitions to ask the crucial question: why do people commit fraud in the first place? The discussion also considers who bears responsibility in mortgage fraud cases and the long-term impact of CIFAS markers for those found guilty of deception. With technology and AI enabling more sophisticated false documentation, and affordability pressures prompting…

Figures from the National House-Building Council saw Q1 2025 register a 36% increase in new homes built across the UK compared with the same period last year, representing a striking development for the first-time buyer market. But with the higher cost of building, ongoing planning challenges and new and changing regulations, how sustainable is this growth? And what does it mean for brokers? In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Jenny Anson, Head of Sales at Pocket Living, and Ed McCoy, Group Sales Director at Persimmon Homes, to answer these questions. In addition, the conversation shines a light on the opportunities and pressures in the affordable housing sector, from innovative schemes that serve as an alternative to shared ownership, to specialist mortgages that support discounted purchase models. They also explore how larger housebuilders are adapting to regulatory change and why the intermediary mortgage market plays such a vital…

What do the most expensive parts of the country reveal about shifting demand? And why is the Manchester housing market now outperforming many southern counterparts? In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Lucian Cook, Head of Research at Savills, and Ross Jones, founder of Home Financial and Evolve Commercial Finance, to explore how regional trends are redefining the UK housing, mortgage and buy-to-let markets. They take a closer look at London house prices and the ripple effect they’re creating across commuter zones. The conversation also turns to the Scotland housing market, which is showing late-cycle strength in key urban centres, and the Wales housing market, where contrasting conditions range from second-home hotspots to areas still grappling with post-industrial decline. They also unpack what the increased professionalisation of buy-to-let means for brokers, and how factors like yield, transport connectivity and tenant demographics are shaping smarter…

A rising number of borrowers are finding it harder to access mortgages due to being credit challenged - whether that’s from historic debts, a county court judgment, or having little to no credit history. Research indicates that 14.8 million people in the UK have experienced adverse credit at some point, with 8.4 million affected in the past three years alone. For any mortgage broker, this growing segment of credit challenged borrowers represents not only a need for specialist support but also a significant opportunity to add real value. In the latest episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, Phil Spencer is joined by Eloise Hall, Head of National Accounts at Kensington Mortgages, and Alastair Douglas, CEO of TotallyMoney. Together, they unpack what it means to be credit challenged, the influence of the Buy Now Pay Later culture, how lenders are adapting, plus the lasting impact pandemic and the cost of living crisis. They explore the role of specialist lending, the value of personalised advice, and how…

The mortgage market continues to evolve, and so too does the answer to the question: what is a high net worth individual in today’s market? In this episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Stephen Moroukian, Head of Product and Proposition for Real Estate Financing at Barclays Private Bank, and Islay Robinson, founder and CEO of Enness Global. Together, they explore what brokers really need to know when supporting high net worth individuals. The discussion covers the growing use of shorter term mortgages and interest only mortgages, often used to support wealth structuring or for managing cash flow across complex portfolios. In addition, they highlight how traditional affordability checks rarely reflect the financial realities of clients with multiple income streams, differing levels of liquidity, offshore assets, or business holdings. The conversation also shines a light on how specialist private banks take a more holistic view, considering everything from bonus income and…

An estimated 1.8 million fixed rate mortgage deals are due to expire in 2025, 400,000 more than in 2024. This surge in remortgaging presents a critical opportunity for mortgage brokers to offer essential advice and financial support to homeowners across the UK, ensuring they transition smoothly to new deals amid stabilising interest rates and heightened affordability checks. In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Karina Hutchins, Principal, Mortgage Policy at UK Finance. Together, they explore the unique factors driving this spike in fixed-rate maturities, from the post-COVID stamp duty holiday surge to the volatile interest rate environment following the 2023 mini-budget. The conversation focuses on the importance of affordability checks, the distinction between product transfers and full remortgages, and the value of the advice process. Further insights are shared on how brokers can help borrowers avoid payment shock when transitioning from their existing…

A recent report from Barclays revealed that right-sizing – when homeowners move to a more suitably sized property – could potentially free up 3.8 million homes and tackle the issue of 10 million unused bedrooms across the UK. By supporting last-time buyers to make the move and release equity, this shift could help in unlocking the housing market and creating greater levels of movement across the entire housing chain. In this episode of the Mortgage Insider podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Sian McIntyre, Head of Acquisition & Engagement at Barclays UK Life Moments, and Jo Pocklington, Managing Director at Purplebricks Mortgages to evaluate this complex conversation. Together, they explore what right-sizing really means, what’s stopping people from making the move, and why brokers should care – even when the customer may not need a mortgage. They also discuss the needs of last-time buyers, the benefits of releasing equity, and how developers, policymakers and families can all play a…

Who are Gen Z, and why are they rewriting the financial advice rulebook? In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by two industry thought leaders to explore how Gen Z navigates financial education through the digital world, their engagement with Finfluencers, and how brokers can use social media platforms to build trust and extend their reach to younger customers. Joining the conversation are Dr Erika Anderson, Research Associate at the Financial Regulation Innovation Lab, University of Glasgow, and Tayo Oguntonade, former financial adviser, broker, TV presenter, and founder of Bricks with Tips. Together, they examine the factors influencing Gen Z’s financial decisions, their approach to evaluating trustworthy advice, the role of social media in shaping their knowledge base, and how the intermediary market can adapt. Tune in to this insightful discussion to discover how brokers can adapt, connect, and thrive in the Gen Z era. See…

For many first-time buyers, the homeownership dream feels increasingly out of reach, with rising house prices and affordability challenges making it harder than ever to step onto the property ladder. As a result, gifted deposits from family - often referred to as the ‘Bank of Mum & Dad’ - have become a crucial source of support. But what about those who don’t have parental help? From high LTV mortgages to Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor arrangements and Shared Ownership, there are a range of available options. In this episode of the latest Mortgage Insider podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Simon Betteridge, CFO of Kensington and Barclays Mortgages, and Paula Higgins, founder and CEO of the Homeowners Alliance to explore the different types of mortgages designed to help first-time buyers for those with, and without this financial support, including solutions for freelance and self-employed borrowers. Within this discussion, the trio also assess the role of specialist mortgage brokers…

Ever wondered how Phil met Kirsty or what he really thinks about the UK housing market? In this special episode of the Mortgage Insider Podcast, Phil Spencer takes the hot seat as Barclays Business Development Manager Claire MacPhail flips the script and puts him under the spotlight. Phil tackles your burning questions from across the intermediary market, covering topics such as tips for first-time buyers, current property trends, the state of the buy-to-let sector and the great north/south divide. He also shares his opinion on the best and worst home improvements, shifts in demand and homeownership aspirations, the impact of AI, and the value of the advice process. But that's not all, Phil reveals how he got into TV, reflects on his history with Kirsty Allsopp, and even settles the age-old debate: jam or cream first on a scone? Tune in for expert insights, candid moments, and a few laughs with one of the most relatable voices in property. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mortgage Mum is a business that has achieved impressive growth by embracing open dialogue, fostering an inclusive culture, leveraging flexible working, and adopting an innovative social media approach. In this episode of the Mortgage Insider Podcast, Sarah Tucker, founder and CEO of The Mortgage Mum, joins host and property expert Phil Spencer to share her inspiring journey from competing on The Voice to leading a thriving team of nearly 30 female brokers. She candidly reveals the realities of managing a business with a family and addresses the unique challenges facing women in the mortgage industry. Sarah also discusses her passion for finance education, aiming to embed mortgage literacy in schools to create healthier relationships with money. As a leader, she emphasises the importance of listening and adapting her approach to empower each team member, reflecting on how the industry is evolving to support female brokers more effectively. Championing a “lift as you climb” philosophy, she advocates for…

The performance of the UK housing market in 2024 has largely exceeded many people's expectations, although challenges remain for first-time buyers due to house prices increasing and a testing rental market for many. Regional disparities, such as the North-South divide, also continue to influence housing accessibility and affordability for many buyers in pockets of the country. In this episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Zoopla's Executive Director of Research, Richard Donnell, to discuss the intricacies of the UK housing market over the course of the year and explore what lies ahead in 2025. They delve into its resilience amid high interest rates and inflation, exploring key topics including the current state of the residential and buy-to-let purchase markets, house price trends, and the rising prominence of professional landlords. They also cover the supply gap, the impact of affordability checks, and the two-tiered mortgage market, highlighting refinancing,…

Allyship is a vital component in advancing diversity and inclusion efforts, as it involves using our privilege to support underrepresented groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals and those within the neurodiversity spectrum. By actively participating in DEI initiatives and mentoring, allies help normalise conversations around representation while providing guidance and opportunities for marginalised communities. Creating a more equitable world where everyone can thrive through allyship is at the heart of the latest episode of the Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast. This sees host and property expert Phil Spencer joined by Sidney Wager, head of intermediary market development at Barclays, and Aleka Gutzmore, award-winning financial adviser and educator, to discuss how allyship can be defined, perceived and implemented. As well as covering topics such as the upcoming Barclays Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit and Awards, reverse mentoring and what actions brokers can be taking, the trio outline the importance…

With a new Labour government in place, an autumn budget and the US election fast approaching, the old suspects of inflation and tax rises still generating much debate, there’s plenty to discuss from an economic standpoint. To help break down this complex economic landscape and explore its implications for the intermediary mortgage market, by popular demand, Will Hobbs, Head of Multi-Asset Wealth at Barclays UK Wealth Management, returns to share his insights, clarify key trends and offer expert analysis on what the future holds for the industry. With his characteristic optimism and boundless enthusiasm, Will joins host and property expert Phil Spencer to chat about the UK’s position in the global market, the upcoming budget, technological advancements, the lasting impact of the pandemic, housing supply challenges, public sector wages, and why he remains positive about the UK’s economic outlook. This detailed assessment provides brokers with valuable perspectives and essential indicators on how to navigate…

During a cost of living crisis, the additional expense of life insurance, critical illness, income protection and even protecting a mortgage may seem like an unnecessary burden for homeowners. However, this protection is arguably more crucial than ever. According to ONS figures, 2.5 million people in the UK are unable to work due to long-term illness, and Cancer Research data indicates that half of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetime. So, how can mortgage intermediaries help their clients prepare for worst-case scenarios without coming across as if they're making a sales pitch? Host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Barry Kellegher, performance manager at Legal & General, to discuss these three pillars of protection—life insurance, critical illness, and income protection. They explore how these protections differ, how individuals can better safeguard themselves, their loved ones, and their mortgages, and highlight just how tough these conversations can be. Barry also shares his…

Machine learning in finance, the adoption of AI and technology regulation are all hot topics in their own right. Then throw into the mix the potential of automated mortgage advice and what an AI mortgage broker may look like and it's little wonder that intermediary firms across the UK are considering how the role of a broker may change as the AI revolution continues to gather pace. So, what exactly does the mortgage intermediary market need to know about AI and how is it going to change the way they do business? This is the question posed by host and property expert Phil Spencer to guests Stuart Cheetham, CEO of Mpowered Mortgages, and Lilia Christofi, Microsoft's banking lead for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, in the latest episode of the award-winning Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast. This leads to an enlightening discussion which explores the differences between machine learning AI and generative AI, the reliance on cultural adoption, how the banking industry is coping with the adoption of AI, the…

So, what are green mortgages? Green mortgages come in many different forms, but all aim to incentivise buyers in the purchase of energy efficient homes or make energy-related improvements. Through increased innovation and rising environmental awareness, green mortgage products are being launched at an ever-increasing rate to incorporate important factors such as decarbonisation, EPC ratings and retrofitting. With this in mind, the latest episode of the award-winning Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast sees host and property expert Phil Spencer joined by Kieran Campbell, head of sustainability & customer experience at London and Country and Rachael Hunnisett, associate director for built environment at the Green Finance Institute to help break down exactly how green mortgages work, who can get one, how they are financed and what brokers need to know about them. The discussion also explores the history of the sector, how brokers can help stimulate demand, the nuances connected with green finance, the state of…

Mortgage brokers have long been experts in dealing with new challenges. Be this in the form of regulation, technology – especially AI –, a worldwide pandemic, rising interest rates and heightened cost of living pressures. That’s quite a list, but it still doesn’t cover a fraction of the questions being asked of them by their clients in the current financial climate. So, how can brokers adapt their businesses to deal with this ever-changing world? Will AI replace mortgage brokers? And how important is greater collaboration in the industry to ensuring a more seamless homebuying and mortgage journey? Joining host Phil Spencer to examine how brokers can overcome these testing times is Max North, director at Strategy&, the strategy consulting arm of PWC and Liz Syms, owner and founder of brokerage Connect Mortgages and mortgage network Connect for intermediaries. The trio talk about the key factors which are impacting brokers’ daily lives and the advice they are giving. This highly illuminating discussion…

In recent times, there’s been much talk around the financial challenges facing the UK population. However, it’s important to remember that financial circumstances can also improve. Additional, and often unexpected, funds can come in differing forms such as inheritance, insurance payout(s) or even winning the lottery. With inheritance being the most likely scenario, and paying off a mortgage high on the financial planning agenda of many homeowners, this often leads to the question - should I use this inheritance to pay off my mortgage? The answer to this important question is one of the key talking points in the latest instalment of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast which sees host Phil Spencer joined by mortgage broker Carly Cheeseman and content creator, financial adviser and partnership development manager at The Openwork Partnership, Robyn Allen. This discussion evaluates the options available to people when it comes to planning their financial future, the importance of the advice process, the strength of…

The buy-to-let market has undergone some major challenges and changes in recent years, all of which have impacted landlords and property investors to varying degrees. Rental yield has long been a vital component within landlord calculations but another increasingly important consideration in recent times has been whether to set up a limited company. To incorporate or not to incorporate is one of the key talking points in the latest episode of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider Podcast. This discussion on the nuances of the current buy-to-let market sees host and property expert Phil Spencer joined by Emily Mays, founder of The Mortgage Stuff and Gina Peters, partner and head of landlord and tenant law at Dutton Gregory Solicitors. Within this, the trio focus on the stamp duty surcharge, the Renters Reform Bill, opportunities for property investors, short-term and holiday lets, ongoing tax implications, rent-to-rent, how brokers can help buy-to-let clients in 2024 and where to aim their advice. All of…

For almost 10 years, the Help to Buy scheme proved incredibly successful in helping over a quarter of a million borrowers across the UK to buy a home. But, with this scheme now having ended in England and Scotland, this leads to the question of what – if anything – can replace it. In the latest episode of Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer is joined by Mobeen Akram, New Homes Director at the Mortgage Advice Bureau and Mitch Atkins, director at Michael Usher Mortgage Services as they delve into the history of Help to Buy, why it worked, why it ended, alternative buying schemes and the challenges facing young house buyers. The conversation also highlights some of the government-backed and private schemes currently available to help first-time buyers, including Lifetime ISA’s, the First Homes Scheme and shared ownership. It also touches on individual mortgage products such as Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor, the increasingly prominent role being played by the Bank of Mum and Dad,…

The mortgage market is currently experiencing growing demand for long-term mortgages – otherwise known as marathon mortgages - with some lenders even offering up to 40-year terms to help attract more young buyers onto the property ladder. So, will marathon mortgages be THE 2024 trend for first-time buyers? Or, with mortgage rates falling, is it simply a passing phase? To answer these questions and more, James Tucker, CEO at Twenty7Tec and Lewis Shaw, owner of Shaw Financial Services join host and property expert Phil Spencer in the latest instalment of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast - now brought to you on a monthly basis. This discussion delves into attitudes towards longer-term mortgages from within the UK and overseas, lending approaches from a risk perspective, the ability for such a product to prop up the housing market and how vital it is for borrowers to fully understand the potential implications. It also examines the impact of age, occupation and conditions best suited to working beyond potential…

The past few years have seen the relentless rise of the Bank of England base rate dominate lending and borrowing decisions across the mortgage market. This significant uplift has led to an even more complicated picture around affordability, stress testing, the influence of mortgage swap rates and generated a flurry of future interest rate forecasts amid some lingering economic uncertainty. To add some clarity to these shifting market dynamics, the latest episode of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast sees host and property expert Phil Spencer joined by Charles Roe, director of mortgages at UK Finance. With a huge number of moving parts involved in the lending and advice process, Charles carefully evaluates the different funding mechanisms, outlines the subtle variations between traditional building society and banking models and explains the impact of Consumer Duty. He also broaches the current Table Mountain interest rate approach as opposed to the more recent Matterhorn effect, emphasises the importance of…

The UK's housing market remains in a state of flux. Interest rates are at their highest level for 15 years, house prices are faltering, and the UK economy is still feeling the lingering aftermath of last year’s mini-budget. On a more positive note, following a period of swap rate turbulence, mortgage rates are slowly but steadily coming down, inflation is falling and we continue to see a very different regional picture, especially in and around the London housing market. This all leads to ongoing uncertainty. So, to help lift the lid on the UK housing melting pot, the latest instalment of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider Podcast sees Tom Bill, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank join host and property expert Phil Spencer to evaluate some of the most prominent influencing factors. The episode focusses on topics such as ongoing affordability issues, transaction volumes, the performance of the buy-to-let sector, new build and the impact of a changing political landscape. The discussion also…

The UK economy continues to dominate conversations across the country in the wake of the transition to a higher interest rate environment, rising cost of living pressures, an increased focus on unemployment figures and shifts in the labour market. In a bid to unpick the current economic position and help us understand what it all means for the intermediary mortgage market, the latest season of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider Podcast kicks off with host and property expert Phil Spencer being joined by regular guest and Chief Investment Officer, Barclays Private Bank & Wealth Management, Will Hobbs. In his own unique style, Will highlights the importance attached to positive real wage growth, how historic interest rate conditions relate to the current economic climate and the ongoing performance of European and US markets. He also tackles the question of whether interest rates have peaked and outlines why he remains so optimistic about UK economic conditions. This in-depth discussion offers some…

Returning soon, a new series Mortgage Insider, Barclays' award-winning podcast for mortgage brokers. Hosted by TV presenter and property expert Phil Spencer, the new series will see leading industry experts, brokers and Barclays’ own team of experts continue to delve deep into the pressing issues that are shaping the mortgage and housing markets. The conversations will cover topics such as the performance of the UK economy, the intricate processes behind rate-setting and potential alternatives for the help to buy scheme. The new series returns on the 14th November so hit follow now so you don’t miss any future episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite the need for financial advice growing exponentially in an increasingly complex economic landscape, many perceived barriers remain for all too many people across the UK. The final episode in Season 4 of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast evaluates where these barriers appear, the progress being made by the mortgage industry to overcome them and what more brokers can be doing to make the advice they offer more inclusive, more accessible and easier to understand. Host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Jodi Spreadbury, Senior Mortgage & Protection Adviser at The Mortgage Broker Ltd, Sidney Wager, Mortgage Intermediary Partnership Director at Barclays and media commentator, financial adviser and author of ‘Get Your Money Right’ Emmanuel Asuquo. They dissect a plethora of topics including the perils of unregulated advice, how to identify vulnerable clients, the influence – both negative and positive – of social media, Consumer Duty, breaking perceptions around the advice process, the importance…

Following on from episodes which have focused on why buying a house is so complicated and the changing role of the mortgage broker, the latest instalment in the award-winning Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast dusts off its crystal ball to predict the homebuying and selling journey of the future, what’s going on behind the scenes to make this happen and the future role of the mortgage broker. Host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by Maria Harris, Chair of the Home Buying & Selling Technology Group and John Reynolds, Chief Operating Officer and founder of Coadjute as they offer their thoughts on what the homebuying process might look like in 5, 10 or even 20 years’ time and how the intermediary mortgage market can keep up with any digital transformation. This illuminating analysis charts the impact of AI, the importance of good data, open banking and the steps required to create a seamless end-to-end property transaction. It also includes a call to action for brokers to demand more from their tech…

Following his appearances on Series 1, 2 and 3 of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, William Hobbs, Chief Investment Officer at Barclays Wealth & Investments, is back by popular demand to help make sense of current economic conditions in his own inimitable style. Will joins regular host and property expert Phil Spencer to carefully plot his way through what remains a mixed economic picture. Within the podcast, he outlines the ramifications of recent economic shocks, the role played by the media, interest rates projections, inflationary challenges and how technology can help regenerate the UK economy. He also addresses fears of a new banking crisis, how the government can manage debt burdens accumulated over the pandemic and outlines the key areas for mortgage brokers to focus on in their daily business activities and throughout the advice process. This episode offers some fascinating insights into the complex nature of the UK economy and how it reacts to domestic and world events. This episode was recorded…

Evolving and adapting to meet ever-changing lending and borrowing needs is second nature to mortgage brokers. Which leads to the question - how are they doing business differently in 2023? In the latest episode of Barclays Mortgage Insider Podcast, host and property expert Phil Spencer is joined by two mortgage brokers - Helen Pierson, director at Mortgage Advice Bureau, New Homes and Neil Ryner, director of Ryner and Partners - to discuss shifting client needs and the impact on the advice process. Within this discussion, they tackle a range of topics ranging from how to advise a generation of borrowers who haven't experienced an interest rate rise through to the importance of realigning business practices and marketing efforts to align with current market conditions. The trio also address the pace of change throughout the mortgage industry, the difference between information and advice, the ongoing need for education and training, the impact of consumer duty, and the difficulties of identifying and…

Buying a house remains one of life’s most stressful events but is the methodology too onerous, lengthy and overly complex? This is the question, amongst many others, which was posed to representatives of three of the most prominent components in the homebuying process - the mortgage broker, the estate agent and the conveyancer. Episode 8 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast sees mortgage broker Tom Jackson, managing director at Cooper Associates, Peter May, sales director at estate agency Location, Location and Suman Dally, head of conveyancing at law firm Shoosmiths join regular host and property expert Phil Spencer to provide an in-depth overview of the homebuying and selling journey. This discussion includes their individual takes on the procedures involved in this journey, the importance of preparation and education for buyers and sellers, the reliance on government and trade bodies, the impact and limitations of technology, and how to speed up the transition from offer to exchange. It’s…

The UK mortgage market has always generated a huge variety of ways to help people achieve their homeownership goals and, despite operating in a higher interest rate and inflationary environment which is placing additional pressure on affordability, an array of mortgage products remain available to meet individual borrowing needs. In the latest episode of Barclays Mortgage Insider podcast, regular host and property expert Phil Spencer chats with Rebekah Commane, Group Editor of Mortgage Strategy and Mortgage Finance Gazette and Michael Clarke, Product, Policy and Regulatory manager at Barclays to evaluate the many different types of mortgages currently on offer. The discussion transitions from the multiple options available for first-time buyers through to the nuances of the Offset mortgage. It includes an in-depth look at Barclays Family Springboard mortgage, the Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor option, the appeal of tracker mortgages and a number of government and lender-led ways to bridge the gap left by the…

Mortgage brokers have always been on hand to support and deliver solutions for a variety of borrowers on what remains one of the largest and most emotive financial decisions they are ever likely to make. But how has the mortgage advice process changed following a string of events which have put personal and household finances under even greater scrutiny and resulted in an increasingly complex housing and mortgage market? Host and property expert Phil Spencer speaks to Andrew Montlake, managing director of Coreco and chairman of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI) and Charlotte Bates, co-founder of BatesWilcox Mortgage Solutions about the evolution of the mortgage advice process, how people are looking to receive this advice in the modern age and the challenges and opportunities facing mortgage brokers in the current market. The latest episode in series 4 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast also sees the trio discuss the impact of technology, explore how to develop relationships…

With awareness rising over the environmental and cost implications generated by greater levels of energy efficiency within our homes, it’s little wonder that potential buyers are exploring the benefits of purchasing a new build property. In Episode 5 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast, Matt Aston, Head of New Build at Barclays and James Holmear, Group Sales Director at Redrow join host and property expert Phil Spencer to gauge the temperature of the new build sector. They evaluate how an increased consumer focus on energy efficiency is positively impacting the sector, the cost differentials between running a new home compared to older property types, retrofitting, sustainability, financing and the benefits attached to purchasers working with a broker for new builds. Topics which make for a wide-ranging and highly engaging discussion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The buy-to-let mortgage market has experienced many highs and some lows over the years but in the wake of speculation around a potential great buy-to-let property sell-off, what impact are recent events having on landlords and mortgage brokers? The latest instalment in Series 4 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast sees host and property expert Phil Spencer canvass the opinion of Aneisha Beveridge, Head of Research at Hamptons International and Michelle Leyland, specialist BTL mortgage broker at South Yorkshire Money on the current and future state of the buy-to-let sector. This discussion includes a focus on the rise of the limited company structure, the impact of a higher interest rate environment, the changing landlord profile, Build to Rent and the types of conversations advisers need to be having with their landlord clients. With landlords needing more guidance than ever before and additional support with their scenario planning, this is an episode which mortgage advisers and landlords…

The value of mortgage advice continues to rise in line with the number of challenges facing a variety of homeowners and potential buyers across the UK housing market. Challenges which are generating a host of difficult conversations between clients and mortgage advisers. Episode 3 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast sees host and property expert Phil Spencer sit down with two highly respected and experienced mortgage advisers - Jane King, mortgage adviser at Ash-Ridge Private Finance and Sonya Matharu, senior mortgage broker at The Mortgage Mum - to explore how their client engagement has changed in recent times and how they are addressing some difficult conversations. The trio cover a range of topics including the impact of the media, how to better prepare for such conversations, the importance of knowing your client as well as offering some examples of tricky exchanges and financial revelations which potential buyers have and haven’t made. This proves to be an eye-opening and enlightening…

Consumer Duty is currently the hottest topic across the mortgage market and, with new rules coming into force on 31 July 2023, it’s an area that no business can afford to ignore. In the latest episode of the award-winning Mortgage Insider podcast, host Phil Spencer carefully navigates this complex issue with the help Richard Merrett, director of strategic relationships at SimplyBiz Mortgages and Melanie Spencer, head of finova Payment and Mortgage Services. The trio discuss the main principles of Consumer Duty, its impact on the intermediary market, how to better engage with individual clients and the importance of reviewing pre and post-sale processes. They also offer a host of practical tips and examples of good practice to help brokers document and deliver good consumer outcomes. This proves to be a highly insightful discussion into what the FCA has described as a ‘paradigm shift’ in what it expects from firms. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are thrilled to open the highly anticipated Series 4 of Barclays award-winning Mortgage Insider Podcast with a focus on the UK housing market through the eyes of our brand new host, the one and only Phil Spencer. This first instalment in the 12-episode series sees property expert Phil joined by one of the country's most respected housing market commentators Lucian Cook, Head of Residential Research at Savills, to discuss the current performance and potential of the UK housing market. In addition to discussing the current state of play in the UK sales market, this high-level housing conversation also covers a plethora of key topics including the impact of rising mortgage rates, how housebuilders are faring, the challenges facing first-time buyers, the future of buy-to-let and the reasons why mortgage brokers should remain optimistic. This really is a must listen for anyone working in and around the housing and mortgage markets, and even for those who aren’t. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy…