Major mortgage shake-up from NatWest and Rightmove with ‘instant’ decisions

Need to know

This new collaboration comes as the Bank of England holds interest rates at 3.75%, signalling a shift towards tech-driven, faster borrowing in 2026

NatWest has secured a three-year exclusive partnership with Rightmove to provide “instant” digital mortgage decisions directly within property listings. This collaboration arrives as the Bank of England holds interest rates at 3.75%, signalling a shift towards tech-driven, faster borrowing in 2026.

1. Homebuyers can now receive an immediate “mortgage in principle” decision from NatWest while browsing property listings on Rightmove. This three-year exclusive deal aims to give consumers clarity on their borrowing power at the very start of their search.
2. The service is integrated directly into property adverts and the Rightmove mortgages section for seamless access. Users who receive a positive digital decision can then transition straight into a full mortgage application with NatWest.
3. This partnership supports NatWest’s broader commitment to lend £10 billion to first-time buyers throughout 2026. The bank intends to be present at the exact moment customers begin considering a home purchase to streamline the journey.
4. On February 5, 2026, the Bank of England voted 5–4 to maintain the base rate at 3.75% despite inflation sitting at 3.4%. While a cut was avoided this month, the close vote suggests that further reductions are highly likely by spring.
5. Experts predict the base rate could fall to 3.25%-3.5% by the end of the year if inflation continues to cool. Mortgage lenders have already begun pricing these expectations into fixed-rate deals, which are currently at three-year lows.
6. About 1.8 million homeowners will see their fixed-rate deals expire in 2026, often facing a jump from historically low pandemic-era rates. Those switching from two-year fixes may find savings, but five-year fixers should prepare for higher monthly outgoings.
7. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is currently reviewing mortgage rules to help underserved groups, such as the self-employed, access the market more easily. These reforms, expected later in 2026, aim to encourage more flexible lending products and AI-driven advice.
8. Current market trends show a significant rise in low-deposit options, with some lenders now offering 2% deposit mortgages for first-time buyers. This shift, combined with relaxed affordability tests, is helping to unlock the market for younger Gen Z buyers.