South East Mortgage Rates (2026)
Current mortgage rates, median house prices, and first-time buyer schemes in South East. Rates are representative — your actual rate depends on your deposit, credit history, and lender.
2yr Fixed
4.9%
Representative
5yr Fixed
4.5%
Representative
Median Home
£390,000
Median price
Rank
#2 of 12
1 = highest rates
2yr Fixed
4.9%
Representative
5yr Fixed
4.5%
Representative
Median Home
£390,000
Median price
Rank
#2 of 12
1 = highest rates
Top Mortgage Lenders in South East
Nationwide
Competitive rates2yr Fixed
4.9%
5yr Fixed
4.5%
Max LTV
95%
Barclays
Remortgage2yr Fixed
4.85%
5yr Fixed
4.45%
Max LTV
90%
HSBC
Low arrangement fees2yr Fixed
4.8%
5yr Fixed
4.4%
Max LTV
90%
NatWest
Existing customers2yr Fixed
4.92%
5yr Fixed
4.52%
Max LTV
90%
Santander
Cashback offers2yr Fixed
4.88%
5yr Fixed
4.48%
Max LTV
90%
First-Time Buyer Schemes in South East
- ✓First Homes Scheme
- ✓Shared Ownership
- ✓Lifetime ISA
- ✓Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
For a full overview of government schemes and eligibility criteria, see MoneyHelper's first-time buyer guide.
Mortgage Requirements in South East
- •Minimum 5% deposit via Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
- •Standard affordability: 4.5× income multiple
- •Credit history check required
- •Proof of employment or self-assessment for self-employed
South East Housing Market Facts
Mortgages in South East: Local Insights
Why Mortgages Rates Differ in South East
In the South East, mortgage rates can be influenced by the region's strong economy and high property values, particularly in affluent areas like Surrey and Sussex. The proximity to London drives demand for housing, while property taxes can also vary, impacting overall borrowing costs. This combination of factors often results in slightly higher mortgage rates compared to other regions.
South East Mortgages Market
The South East features a mix of national lenders and local providers such as Kent Reliance, which cater to the unique needs of the region. The market is competitive, with recent trends showing an increase in first-time buyers taking advantage of government schemes, which has intensified competition among lenders.
Local Saving Tip for South East
Consider the Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme available in the South East, which can provide up to 20% of the property price as a government loan, allowing buyers to enter the market with just a 5% deposit.
Also compare in South East
See how other insurance costs compare in your area
Tips for Getting the Best Mortgage Rate in South East
Improve your credit score first
Check your Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion reports. Register on the electoral roll and correct any errors before applying.
Save a larger deposit
Moving from a 90% to an 85% LTV can cut your rate significantly. Each 5% LTV band unlocks better deals.
Use a whole-of-market broker
A fee-free, whole-of-market mortgage broker can access thousands of deals including exclusive rates not available directly.
Consider fix length carefully
A 2-year fix gives flexibility to remortgage sooner. A 5-year fix protects against rate rises but may cost more if rates fall.
Budget for fees and stamp duty
In South East, stamp duty, arrangement fees, and solicitor costs can add £5,000–£15,000 to your purchase. Factor these into your budget.
Get an Agreement in Principle
An AIP shows sellers you're a serious buyer and speeds up the process. Most expire after 90 days.
Are you overpaying?
See how your rate compares to the South East average
Products That Can Lower Your Mortgages Costs
These items may help you save money or reduce risk.
Detecting damp before purchase avoids costly surprises — protects your investment and mortgage terms
Reduces energy bills by up to 30% — lower outgoings improve your mortgage affordability assessment
Protects your biggest asset — also helps lower home insurance premiums on your mortgaged property
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