Elevated house prices, high borrowing costs, and stringent affordability criteria are key drivers
According to recent data, mortgage terms are getting longer, with many buyers potentially still paying off their loans well into their retirement years.[1] Elevated house prices, high borrowing costs, and stringent affordability criteria drive more people to opt for 30 years or more home loans. However, this choice has the downside of incurring higher interest payments over time. Borrowers may have to dip into their pension savings to continue mortgage payments or clear the loan, leaving them with diminished financial resources during retirement.
Figures from the Bank of England reveal that over the past three years, more than one million new mortgages have been issued with end dates extending beyond the current state pension age of 66 for both men and women. This trend is accelerating, as the data shows that in the fourth quarter of 2023 alone, 91,394 new mortgages—or 42% of the total—had terms that stretched beyond the borrower’s state pension age.
Rising Trend Among Younger Borrowers
The trend highlights a significant rise from 38% in the same period in 2022 and 31% in the fourth quarter of 2021. The challenging task of entering the housing market is compelling large numbers of young homebuyers to commit to longer mortgage terms. Under substantial affordability pressures, younger borrowers, in particular, are increasingly securing mortgages that extend past their pension age. Between 2021 and 2023, the number of people under 30 who took out such mortgages surged by 139%.
In comparison, the number of people aged 30 to 39 taking out long-term mortgages increased by a more moderate 29%. In contrast, all other age groups saw a decrease in issuing these extended-term mortgages over the same period.
Lenders’ responsible practices
Lenders adhere to the Financial Conduct Authority’s responsible lending rules when assessing new mortgage applications. They meticulously evaluate whether the borrower can afford their mortgage in the future, including whether the requested term extends beyond the borrower’s anticipated retirement age. In such cases, it is common practice for lenders to request proof of pension income.
For those nearing retirement—typically within a decade—lenders often require assurance that the borrower can manage mortgage repayments based on their projected retirement income. This added scrutiny ensures borrowers do not face undue financial strain during retirement.
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[1] Freedom of Information (FOI) – Bank of England – data request compiled – 20/05/2024
