Seasonal Market Insights - Autumn 2025
03 October 2025
Mortgages: More Choice, More Movement
- Remortgaging on the rise in Horsham and Southwater: With many fixed-rate deals ending, more homeowners are reviewing their mortgage. Even a small improvement in rate can save thousands over the overall mortgage term.
- First-time buyers adjusting their strategy: Longer mortgage terms and aiming for ‘forever homes’ are becoming more popular across West Sussex, particularly in family-friendly areas like Horsham and Southwater.
AboutMortgages Tip
Don’t wait until your deal ends – reviewing early could help you secure a better rate.
Request a review today >>>
Equity Release: Growing Role in Retirement Planning
- Older homeowners released over £600m from property in Q2 this year – many in West Sussex are using property wealth to support retirement.
- Flexible drawdown plans are proving especially popular, allowing you to access funds now with more available later.
AboutMortgages Tip
Equity release isn’t just for topping up retirement income – many use it to support family, clear debts, or adapt their home.
Explore your options: Contact our specialist team >>>
Financial Protection: Your Safety Net
- Bigger mortgages and rising living costs mean life cover, income protection or critical illness insurance are more important than ever.
- Without the right cover in place, unexpected events can hit family finances much harder.
AboutMortgages Tip
Regularly review your protection – does it still match your mortgage, income and family needs?
Review your financial protection options >>>
Starting your Next Chapter
Whether you’re:
- Buying your first home in Horsham,
- Remortgaging in Southwater,
- Considering equity release in nearby villages, or
- Reviewing your protection,
…our team at About Mortgages can give you the tailored advice you need to move forward with confidence. Getting expert guidance now can save you money and give you peace of mind.
Our Top Tips for 2026 buyers are:
- Get your Agreement in Principle early – January regularly sees a surge in property listings. January 2025 saw an 86.3% increase in local properties listed, from the previous month, so expect to increase your pool of properties to view! We recommend securing your mortgage offer as early as possible, to be in the strongest position to buy in early 2026. Agents will want to see know affordability has been confirmed before you start viewing homes.
- Use the festive slowdown wisely – if you start or even finish preparing before Christmas, you’ll be ready to act quickly in the New Year.
- Budget beyond your deposit – factor in solicitor fees, surveys, moving costs, and any stamp duty (if applicable).
- Be realistic about renovations – balance the excitement of a fixer-upper with the cost of works and rising living expenses.
- Stay organised with paperwork – ID, proof of income, bank statements, and deposit evidence should be ready to avoid delays.
- Utilise professional advice – mortgage brokers, solicitors, and estate agents can guide you through unfamiliar steps. Our sister company At Home Estate & Lettings Agency had the highest percentage of sold properties and the lowest percentage of fall-throughs in January 2025 - out of the top 5 local competitor agencies in Horsham, Southwater and the surrounding areas.
“Using an experienced adviser will make the process less stressful; we’re here to guide, advise and help you navigate through the house buying and selling process. It’s important to have someone in your corner during the process…
With uncertainty having eased the market, we’re expecting a post budget bounce. Brave and contrary buyers may well make an advantageous acquisition this side of the new year!”
Keep your focus on what really matters this Christmas, by having your New Year mortgage offer secured before the festivities begin!
01403 283928
p.davies@aboutmortgages.co.uk