Standard variable rate

All lenders have a Standard Variable Rate (SVR) which is variable and normally fluctuates with any changes in Bank of England base rate. Although it is not directly linked to the Bank of England base rate lenders will generally adjust their SVR in response to any changes in base rate. Most mortgages with special terms revert to the SVR after the period of the special term expires.

Discount Rate

A discount rate mortgage is a variable rate mortgage which offers a discount from the lenders standard variable rate for an initial period of time. The lower discounted rate increases or decreases in line with any changes in the lenders standard variable rate. As a general rule the shorter the period of the discount the higher the level of the discount. At the end of the discounted period you will revert to the lenders standard variable rate.

Tracker Rate

A tracker rate mortgage is another type of variable rate mortgage however the interest rate is linked to the Bank of England base rate rather than the lenders standard variable rate. The lender will charge the borrower a percentage, for example 0.5%, on top of the base rate. This rate can apply for a certain period or for the term of the mortgage

Fixed rate

A fixed rate mortgage fixes your interest rate for a period of time, meaning your monthly payment won't change. This period can be as short as 1 year or as long as 25 years. As a general rule the longer the period of the fixed rate the higher the interest rate that applies. If you are a first time buyer you may like the idea of a fixed rate product, as having fixed monthly payments will make it easier for you to budget. At the end of the fixed rate you will revert to the lender’s standard variable rate which is often higher than the fixed rate.

Capped Rate

A capped rate mortgage is a variable rate mortgage with a maximum interest rate for a specific period. The interest rate cannot rise above the pre agreed capped rate during the specified period. If the lender’s interest rates fall below the capped rate the borrower will benefit from any reduction. Capped rates may also have a 'collar' which means the rate can not fall below this level.

Current Account Mortgage

A current account mortgage (CAM), is a variable rate mortgage which is linked to your bank account. The interest is calculated daily and any money in your bank account can be offset against the outstanding mortgage balance. This can be used to reduce your monthly payments or reduce the term of the loan. Interest is calculated on a daily basis on a CAM and they offer a lot of flexibility. CAMs are often suitable for people with fluctuating incomes. They can be particularly tax efficient for higher rate taxpayers.

Offset Mortgage

An offset mortgage is similar to a CAM however it often uses a savings account balance as well as your current account balance. Any savings accumulated in the savings account and your current account can be offset against the outstanding mortgage balance. This will have the effect of reducing the interest charged on your mortgage which can either reduce your monthly payment or reduce the term of the mortgage.

When you are thinking about which type of mortgage that you are going to take consider these points.

The best way to do this is to use a mortgage comparison site that allows you to look at all the mortgage types: one that is independent of all lenders and compares the whole of the market; and one that enables you to apply directly to the lender.

Francis Ghiloni