News

08/08/2012 18:01:40

Home buyers advised to look beyond mortgage headline rates

Home buyers have been advised to look beyond the headline rates when choosing a mortgage product.

MoneySupermarket.com found that fees can add hundreds of pounds to the cost of a mortgage.

Its research revealed that while banks and building socities tend to have similar headline rates, banks often charge higher fees than building societies.

For instance, customers could save over £700 on a two-year fixed rate mortgage thanks to the lower arrangement and booking fees offered at a building society. However, banks do tend to offer better value for first time buyers.

Commenting on the findings, Clare Francis, mortgage expert at MoneySupermarket.com had the following financial advice for those looking to take out a mortgage: "When comparing mortgages you need to calculate the total amount you'll pay over the term of the deal - monthly repayments plus fees - in order to work out which will be the best value for you."