Halifax slashes mortgage rates for first time buyer contractors

For a limited time, first-time homebuyers with at least a 10% deposit can fix 2.94% for two years. This is nothing short of an absolute bargain.

The new 2-yr fixed interest rate represents a cut of 0.45% off its previous 3.39% deal. In mortgage terms, that’s a substantial reduction or should I say 'saving', for borrowers.Contractors will save both over the entire mortgage term and on their monthly repayments. But they'll have to be quick. This exclusive-to-broker offer won't last forever.

2-year fixed at 2.94%, 90%-LTV until 31/12/2017

For a 10% deposit, 2.94% is one of the best first-time buyer mortgage rates on the market. Here are the details and formalities of the deal ‘at-a-glance’:

• up to 90% LTV (in English, minimum 10% deposit, but you can put down more);
• the terms are available to first-time home buyers only;
• the maximum loan size (mortgage) is £750,000;
• a £999 product fee applies;
• you get £500 Cashback on completion.

Can’t I get first-time buyer contractor mortgages direct from Halifax?

It’s worth repeating that these exclusive rates are only available through select brokers. We’re delighted to announce that we’ll be one of them offering this best buy mortgage deal.

Halifax Intermediaries head of sales Ian Wilson has this to say:

“The changes made to these products demonstrate our ongoing dedication to helping customers save money by taking out a mortgage with Halifax. We will continue to develop our product base to offer excellent value to our customers.”

Halifax set the precedent over a decade ago. Today, they continue to lead the market in affordable mortgages for first-time buyers.

It’s hard to put into words just how awesome this news is. For contractors who want to buy their first home but have only 10% down payment, it’s a game changer.

Why the cuts for first-time home buyers now?

Influential city analysts have put the slew of rate cuts down to falls in swap rates. Swap rates, just so you know, are the rates banks use to charge their mortgage loans. As these rates have fallen, lenders have a little more leeway in the rates they charge.

It's a good thing, too. Many mortgage lenders want (and need) to attract new customers to meet end-of-year targets.

The introduction of the Mortgage Market Review saw a tentative start to the year. This meant stricter lending guidelines imposed on the mortgage market.

As a result, some mortgage lenders could miss their annual targets. To make sure they don’t, lenders are rolling up their sleeves to make up for lost business.

Why is the Halifax a great choice for contractors?

Halifax will accept contractors’ applications from their first contract. This includes company owners looking for first time buyer contractor mortgages.

Using daily rates sets Halifax apart from other lenders, many of whom use accounts. For an established contractor, their accounts might get them by. But contract-based underwriting isn't the same underwriting process used for a standard mortgage.

The Halifax assesses contractors’ affordability based on their gross contract earnings. That’s net contract rate income before expenses and tax, not take-home pay or accounts!

This method is a huge relief to contractors utilising a limited company. Most keep their take home drawings (salary & dividends) low to reduce tax liability. It’s a legitimate tax-planning strategy, but one that fails contractors looking for a mortgage.

One thing Halifax does insist upon is having a good credit rating. Most high-earning contractors have great credit, making obtaining a mortgage easy for them. But it's worth noting that those newer to the lifestyle may need to check their credit score. And that will be the same almost everywhere they go.

So, yes. The Halifax has done it again. The bank's change in strategy was a landmark for independent professionals a decade ago. This reverse in trend in interest rates for first time buyers is just as iconic, albeit temporary.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer while the going’s this good. The sooner you make your move, the sooner you'll be saving on your mortgage loan.