Money Box Live: Mortgages

BBC Radio 4's Money Box Live Wednesday, 21 September 2011 at 1502 BST On Radio 4 and Online Listen to the programme Programme transcript (19 pages)

Mortgage lending has risen slightly over the summer, but the housing market is still sluggish according to experts.

Economic uncertainty and a lack of mortgage lending are chiefly to blame, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyorshas said.

First time buyers are still struggling to get on the housing ladder, having to find deposits of around 20% of the purchase price to get a loan.

However they may be helped by the fact that in many areas, like East Anglia and the West Midlands, house prices are continuing to fall.

Scotland and Northern Ireland also recorded property price drops. But London still bucks the trend with house prices continuing to rise.

What are the best rates for fixed, discounted or variable mortgages?

How much can you afford to borrow?

What are the associated set up and exit fees?

Are you able to overpay?

What are the options if you are self-employed?

If you are a first time buyer do you need advice about deposits or parental help?

Vincent Duggleby was joined by:

• Melanie Bien, Private Finance

• David Hollingworth, London and Country Mortgages

• Jane King, Ash-Ridge Asset Management

Presenter: Vincent Duggleby
Producer: Lesley McAlpine

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