Black & White Bridging's comment on today's MLAR stats

10 June 2025

Martyn Smith, CEO, Black & White Bridging commented:

“The latest MLAR data paints a nuanced picture of the mortgage market’s recovery. On the one hand, the sharp rise in gross advances and outstanding mortgage balances signals growing confidence among borrowers and lenders alike. But dig a little deeper, and we see a market still feeling its way forward.

“The surge in lending to first-time buyers is encouraging, showing that pent-up demand is being unlocked — yet the dip in remortgaging and softening in new commitments suggests many homeowners remain cautious, likely waiting for greater rate stability.

“From a specialist lending perspective, the uptick in high LTV borrowing — now at its highest level since 2008 — speaks to a growing appetite for risk and the increasing importance of lenders who can handle more complex cases. But this must be balanced against a rise in possessions, which is a warning that affordability remains under pressure for many households.

“In short, while momentum is returning, it’s far from a straightforward bounce-back. Lenders will need to remain agile, responsive and more personalised in their approach as the market continues to rebalance.”