The mortgage market is facing uncertainty due to ongoing developments in the Middle East. Affordability challenges had been easing slightly in recent months - mortgage rates were slowly coming down due to cuts to Bank Rate. In January 2026, the average monthly mortgage payment was 7% lower than the previous year. However, the recent outbreak of war in Iran has made the short-term outlook much more uncertain. At the start of March, 472 residential mortgage products were taken off the market within a 48-hour period, in response to rising swap rates. This trend continued throughout the month, with a fifth of overall mortgage deals removed from the market by 21 March. First-time buyers have been hit particularly badly – they may notice that rates are higher on low-deposit deals. Adam French at Moneyfacts commented, “It’s unwelcome news for borrowers, as the prospect of falling mortgage rates has quickly given way to rate rises. How far they could go is now heavily dependent on how global markets and inflation expectations evolve as conflict in the Middle East unfolds.” We can help you understand how the economic situation affects you and your mortgage – get in touch for support. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/mar/23/uk-mortgage-interest-rates-markets-bank-of-england-iran-war https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y7gnkez3lo https://moneyfactscompare.co.uk/news/mortgages/impact-of-iran-war-on-mortgages/ https://moneyage.co.uk/472-mortgage-products-withdrawn-in-48-hours.php https://www.rightmove.co.uk/news/articles/property-news/average-monthly-mortgage-payment-down-january

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Moving home or renovating in 2026? Make sure you’re adequately covered. Before you move, it’s important to check the details of your home contents policy, as exclusions may apply to the removals process. For example, some insurers only cover belongings packed and moved by professionals. Additionally, your home insurance won’t automatically be applicable at your new address, so you will likely need to transfer the policy over (if allowed). Similarly, if you’re renovating your current home, it’s important to review your existing policies. If your project involves structural changes or new fixtures, you will likely need an extra layer of cover to ensure you’re sufficiently protected if something goes wrong. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/insurance/home-insurance/moving-to-new-home/#:~:text=You'll%20need%20to%20have,for%20longer%20than%2030%20days https://www.renovationplan.co.uk/news-and-insight/why-you-need-renovation-insurance-cover-in-2026/

A survey has revealed that homeowners are more likely to plan a new kitchen than seek out protection. Research found that respondents were more likely to spend money on new furniture (36%), redecorating (26%) or installing a new bathroom or kitchen (25%) than on taking out protection insurance, with only 15% saying it was a priority. However, many mortgage holders expressed concern about their financial security, with 62% saying they are worried they could lose their home if they became too ill to work. More than half (56%) admitted they would struggle to keep up with mortgage repayments after six months without an income. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Sources: https://www.covermagazine.co.uk/news/4524648/protection-ranks-lowest-importance-homebuyers

The average age of the population is getting older, which will likely change the type of protection people need in future. A report found that by 2050, 27% of people living in advanced economies will be over 65. As longevity increases, the demands placed on insurers - and on individuals - will evolve. Traditionally, protection products have focused on providing financial safety nets in the event of illness or death, often through income replacement. Longer lifespans mean cover may need to last longer and respond to more complex circumstances. People are working later, building assets over extended careers and supporting family members across multiple generations. There is also a growing need to consider later-life health risks and the potential cost of care. Protection is no longer just about replacing income for a limited period - it’s about safeguarding financial stability over decades. Regularly reviewing policies helps ensure cover remains appropriate as responsibilities, health and lifestyles change. As we live longer, protection must adapt - providing resilience, certainty and peace of mind for a longer, more unpredictable journey. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://www.ftadviser.com/content/8284146a-0a97-4de6-8e8e-52eb26fe51df