Commentary

    Message From A Regulated Broker

    March 12, 20262 min readtenant2owner Team

    We are grateful to Darryl Doffer for allowing us to share his views on the ‘war rates’ and how they should be considered by Savvy buyers.


    “We’ve all seen the headlines this week—mortgage rates are creeping back up. But if you're looking to get on the property ladder, this "tough" market might actually be the best opportunity you've had in years. 📈

     

    While other buyers are hesitating, the Power of Negotiation is back. Here is why simple negotiation actually works in your favour if you haggle a lower purchase price today.

     

    📉 The "Negotiation"

    Because demand has dipped, sellers are becoming much more realistic. Did you know that negotiating just a 1.1% reduction cancels out the recent rate rise today? But if you aim for 5%, look at the massive long-term win:

     

    🤔THE "WAIT & SEE" (2 Weeks ago):

    *Purchase Price: £300,000 (Full Price)

    *10% Deposit: £30,000

    *Interest Rate: 3.9%

    *Monthly Payment: £1,411

    🧮Balance after 5 years: £234,420

     

    👍THE "SMART MOVE" (Today):

    *Purchase Price: £285,000 (5% Off)

    *10% Deposit: £28,500

    *Interest Rate: 4.3%

    *Monthly Payment: £1,396

    🧮Balance after 5 years: £224,980

     

    Above examples are based on a 5yr fixed rate with an overall term of 25 years, and correct as of 12th March 2026

     

    💡 The Result?

    By negotiating the price down, you aren't just keeping your monthly payments lower. The real win is your mortgage balance. 💰

     

    After your 5-year fixed term ends, you would owe £9,440 LESS on your home than if you had bought at the "lower rate" but higher price two weeks ago. That is nearly £10k of extra equity in your pocket just for being a savvy negotiator!

     

    🚀 Why now?

    ✅ Less Competition: Fewer bidding wars mean you have the upper hand.

    ✅ Motivated Sellers: Sellers are more likely to accept a lower offer to secure a move.

    ✅ Equity Boost: You’re starting your journey with a lower debt-to-value ratio.

     

    Don't let the rate talk scare you off—let it be your leverage.

     

    YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP WITH YOUR MORTGAGE REPAYMENTS”

     

    Darryl Dhoffer CeMAP CeRER

    Managing Director at The Mortgage Geezer

    emaildarryl@themortgagegeezer.co.uk

    websitewww.themortgagegeezer.co.uk

    Phone: 01234 237321

    Address: Unit 1 Furtho Court, Towcester Road, Old Stratford Milton Keynes. MK19 6AN 

    Book a meeting with me

    at EHF Mortgages

    at EHF Mortgages

    Read my contributions in the National Press here image002.png


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