A 5 year fixed-rate mortgage lets you lock in your interest rate for five years, so your monthly repayments won’t change, even if the Bank of England raises its base rate.
Fixed rates are popular with first-time buyers due to the financial certainty they offer. With many lenders competing, a whole-of-market broker can help you find the best deal.
Fixing your mortgage for 5 years could be a smart move if you want peace of mind and predictable monthly payments, especially if you think interest rates might rise. It's also a popular choice for those on a budget or looking for financial stability.
However, 5 year fixed mortgage rates can come with higher initial rates and less flexibility. If you think you might move, remortgage, or repay early within that time, you could face early repayment charges (ERCs).
If you're unsure about committing for 5 years, you might prefer a shorter fix such as a 2 year fixed mortgage rate. On the other hand, if you want long-term certainty, some lenders offer 10 year fixed-rate mortgages or more.
Ultimately, it depends on your personal plans, finances, and how much flexibility you want.
Currently if you're looking to get a 5 year fixed mortgage, the average rate for a 75% loan to value ratio is 5.04% (as of 14th May 2025). However, the rate you get will depend on your financial circumstances and the size of your deposit.
It’s important to factor in any fees or costs when looking for the cheapest mortgage rate. You may find it’s cheaper to opt for a deal with a higher interest rate and no fee rather than one with a lower interest rate but a high fee.
The best 5 year fixed mortgage rate will typically have low fees and a relatively competitive interest rate.
Whether a 5-year fixed-rate mortgage is right for you really depends on your financial circumstances. Locking in a rate now would give you peace of mind that your repayments will remain the same for five years, which makes for easier budgeting.
However, if interest rates were to fall in the next few years, you wouldn't benefit from this.
Yes, but many lenders charge you for overpayments over a certain amount - you'll need to discuss the overpayment options with them. You’ll also usually have to pay a hefty fee if you want to switch before the end of the five year fixed term.
The lender will move you to its SVR, which is likely higher than the fixed rate you were on, meaning you will pay more each month. It is often best to remortgage to a new deal as soon as possible to save money.
However, being on the lender's SVR can offer a lot more flexibility then other deals, so if you're planning to move soon it can sometimes be worth remaining on it for a short time.