"Buyers face an even more stressful experience than usual": Atom bank comments on ONS Private Rent and House Price data

25 March 2026

Chris Storey, Chief Commercial Officer, Atom bank:

“Between the chaotic rate of change in the mortgage market, and continued house price volatility, it’s not easy for would-be homebuyers at the moment.

“While the headline rate of house price growth may be down, the reality is there is real variance between different types of property. Rightmove last week reported the price gap between typical first-time buyer properties and larger homes has reached a record high, making it far harder for homeowners to move up the ladder. Meanwhile potential first-time buyers face a real battle to save a decent deposit, given the continued cost of living pressures putting every penny under pressure.

“Throw in the volatile mortgage market, where lenders are being forced to reprice and adapt their ranges due to the impacts of geopolitical events, and buyers face an even more stressful experience than usual.

“For brokers and borrowers, now is the time to prioritise working with lenders who can move quickly, providing reassurance and easing some of that stress. In such fast-moving volatile times, brokers have a crucial role to play in bringing some calm, and the right partnerships can help them do just that.”