Is It Time to Remortgage? Key Signs to Watch in 2025
Why 2025 is a critical year for remortgaging
Thousands of UK homeowners and landlords are coming off low fixed-rate deals this year—and facing very different rates than they locked in during the 1%–2% era.
Remortgaging in 2025 isn’t just about getting a better deal. It’s about protecting your monthly budget, futureproofing your finances, and avoiding nasty surprises.
With swap rates changing weekly, acting early and strategically is key.
What is a remortgage?
A remortgage is when you replace your existing mortgage with a new one—either with your current lender or a new one. It can be used to:
🔹 Get a better rate
🔹 Fix repayments for longer
🔹 Raise additional capital
🔹 Switch between interest-only and repayment
🔹 Consolidate debt
🔹 Remove or add someone from the mortgage (e.g., post-divorce or inheritance)
Done right, it can save you hundreds or even thousands per year.
🔍 7 signs it’s time to remortgage
Let’s break down the key indicators that a remortgage could benefit you right now:
1. Your fixed rate is ending in the next 6 months
This is the biggest red flag. If you do nothing, you’ll likely revert to your lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR) — often 6–8%+ in 2025.
You can lock in a new deal up to 6 months in advance with many lenders. Starting early gives you:
- More options
- Time to fix paperwork issues
- Better leverage
2. Your current deal isn’t competitive anymore
Even if you’re mid-way through a deal, it’s worth checking if better rates are now available. You’ll need to factor in:
- Any early repayment charges (ERCs)
- Exit fees
- Cost vs benefit over time
Sometimes, paying the fee still works out cheaper if you're on an uncompetitive rate.
3. You’ve built up equity
Has your property increased in value? If so, you may have moved into a lower loan-to-value (LTV) bracket, unlocking better rates.
💡 Example:
You borrowed £250k on a £300k home (83% LTV).
Now the home is worth £375k — that’s 67% LTV.
Lower LTV = lower risk for the lender = better pricing for you.
4. You want to raise capital
Whether you’re funding renovations, helping children onto the ladder, or investing in another property — a remortgage can be used to release equity.
In 2025, many lenders allow capital raising up to 85% LTV (and sometimes more with specialist lenders).
5. You’ve had a change in circumstances
New job? Self-employment? Divorce? Retirement?
Any major change could be a reason to review your mortgage:
- You may want to fix payments for certainty
- You may qualify for different products
- You might want to change who is on the mortgage
Life changes — your mortgage should too.
6. You’re stuck on interest-only
Many borrowers still sit on interest-only deals with no repayment plan in place. This may have been fine when rates were 1%, but in 2025 it’s a risk.
You could:
- Switch to capital repayment
- Refinance to a part-and-part deal
- Raise equity from other properties
7. You want to protect against rate rises
Markets expect base rate cuts in late 2025, but short-term volatility is real.
If you're anxious about rising costs, locking in a fixed rate now could give you peace of mind — especially if you're on a tracker or variable product.
How long does remortgaging take?
In 2025, average remortgage timeframes are:
- 2–3 weeks with your current lender (product switch)
- 4–6 weeks with a new lender (full application)
Start the process 3–6 months before your deal ends for best results. That gives you time to:
- Compare options
- Gather documents
- Clear any credit file errors
- Avoid lapsing onto SVR
How a broker can help
At Willow, we make the remortgage process seamless — even if your case isn’t straightforward.
We work across the whole market, including:
✅ High street banks
✅ Specialist lenders
✅ Private banks for high-net-worth clients
✅ Second charge and equity release providers
Whether you’re remortgaging a family home, rental property, or complex portfolio, we’ll find the smartest structure for your goals.
📞 Want Help Navigating Today’s Market?
Book a free strategy call with one of our mortgage specialists.
We’ll help you find the smartest way forward—whatever rates do next.