The study, which surveyed more than 2,000 renters and 2,000 homeowners, showed that the majority (83%) would consider a long-term fixed-rate mortgage over a short-term if it provided greater certainty of mortgage repayments.
Despite this, there is a general lack of awareness around long-term fixed rate mortgages, with a quarter of renters and homeowners (26%) indicating they believe the longest fixed-term rate available is between two and five years. More than 1 in 10 - 12% - believe the longest is up to 40 years and 16% do not know at all.
The new study also reveals that most homeowners are unaware that long-term fixed rate mortgages can improve affordability. If homeowners were to buy again, three-quarters (75%) would choose a long-term fixed rate mortgage if it increased their chances of borrowing more and were able to buy a bigger home.
Despite misunderstandings, it is one of the most common products - 59% of homeowners surveyed are on a fixed rate product, perhaps as many will have taken financial advice on the best product for their needs. However, more than two-thirds (68%) do not have a fixed-rate mortgage that exceeds five years, and 33% were concerned about being locked into a product if wider market rates decreased. Other respondents were concerned about their circumstances changing during the fixed term (30%) and 26% expressed fears that moving home would mean costly fees.
However, when asked if they would still be concerned about these issues if there was a long-term fixed-rate product that removed these barriers, 88% of survey respondents would consider one.
Vicki Harris, Chief Commercial Officer, Kensington Mortgages comments:
“While mortgage terms of 30 years or higher are the norm, our research shows that the benefits of long-term fixed-rate mortgages are less well-known.
“These products may have higher interest rates than shorter-term mortgages in the early years, but you can often borrow more and they reduce the risk of being unable to remortgage, if any financial circumstances take a turn for the worse after the mortgage is taken out. It also acts as a protection against any future interest rate rises."
“For some, it could be the only way to afford a property. And for those who are struggling to step onto the property ladder, speaking to a mortgage adviser about these products could be a serious alternative if they haven’t already been considered. That’s why we’re soon launching our own long-term fixed product range to help give borrowers even more choice and flexibility."
