Comfort, character, and homes that feel lived in. If 2025 was the year people tried to make their homes look perfect, 2026 looks more like the year people want their homes to feel good. Across the interior trend write-ups so far, there is a clear shift away from show-home styling and towards spaces that support real life: friends coming round, hobbies taking up space, a reading chair that actually gets used, and a home that reflects the people living in it. Here are a few of the themes that keep cropping up, and why they might be resonating right now. The joy-first homeThis trend is less about a specific colour palette and more about permission. Permission to choose things because you like them, not because they are neutral, safe, or "what you are meant to do". That might mean brighter colour, playful details, or simply making space for the things you enjoy. There is also a practical side to it. Homes are being used harder than ever, and people are choosing items that encourage connection, whether that is hosting family, having friends round, or setting up a corner for a hobby. Digital escape cornersOne of the most interesting trends is the rise of small "digital escape" spaces. It is not about building a library room. It is more like claiming a corner: a comfortable chair, lighting that feels warm, and a spot where your phone is not the main character. Call it a reading nook, a journalling chair, or just a quiet corner. The point is the same: people are making room for a breather at home, even in small spaces. Cocooning bedroomsThis one is not going anywhere. The focus is on comfort and sleep, but without the sterile feel. Expect softer textures, better lighting, and bedrooms that feel nurturing rather than purely functional. It is also a reminder that interiors are not only about how a room looks, but how it supports your day-to-day life. A bedroom that helps you switch off is not a luxury idea, it is a quality-of-life idea. Lived-in, layered spacesAnother theme showing up across 2026 interiors is a move towards rooms that look collected over time. Less "everything matches", more "this is us". That might look like mixing old and new, using vintage pieces, choosing darker woods with character, or simply allowing a room to feel like it has been used. People are showing rooms as they are actually lived in, and it is making homes feel warmer and more personal. Natural materials and tactile finishesWood, textured fabrics, and handcrafted details are everywhere in the trend forecasts. There is something grounding about natural materials, especially when life feels fast and digital. It is not about chasing perfection. It is about creating a space that feels real. What does this have to do with moving home?Nothing in this blog is about mortgages, but trends like these often pop up when people are reassessing how they live. Sometimes that results in a refresh of a room. Sometimes it results in bigger questions, like whether a home still fits what you need now. If you have found yourself thinking about space, comfort, or what you want your home life to feel like this year, you are not the only one.

As the year draws to a close, many of us start thinking about fresh starts and new goals. It’s also the perfect time to take a closer look at your mortgage. Whether your current deal is due to end soon, your financial situation has changed, or you simply want to make sure you’re still on the best possible rate, a quick review now could set you up for a stronger 2026. Why a mortgage review matters Your mortgage is likely to be your biggest monthly expense, but it’s also one of the easiest areas to forget about once it’s set up. Rates, products and personal circumstances change all the time, so what suited you a year or two ago might not be the best fit now. A mortgage review doesn’t have to mean making changes straight away. It’s about understanding your position, checking what’s available, and identifying opportunities to save money or make your mortgage work harder for you. If your fixed rate is ending soon If your fixed rate is due to end in the next six to twelve months, it’s worth acting early. When your deal finishes, you’ll usually move onto your lender’s standard variable rate, which is often higher than a new fixed or tracker deal. Starting the process early gives us time to review all the available options and secure a new rate in advance. Some lenders will allow you to lock in a deal several months before your current one ends, so you won’t miss out if rates change in the meantime. If your circumstances have changed Life rarely stays still. Perhaps you’ve had a pay rise, started working for yourself, or want to borrow more for home improvements. Maybe you’d like to reduce your payments to free up cash for other goals. Whatever the reason, reviewing your mortgage can help you make adjustments that support your current lifestyle and long-term plans. It’s all about making sure your mortgage is working for you, not the other way around. If you want to make overpayments or shorten your term The start of a new year often inspires people to focus on financial wellbeing. If you’re in a position to make small overpayments, or you want to see how much time and money you could save by shortening your term, I can help you run through the numbers. Even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference over time, and it’s always better to have a clear picture before making changes. Planning ahead for 2026 The mortgage market is still finding its balance after a few years of volatility, but there are reasons to be optimistic. Lenders are competing for business, and rates are beginning to stabilise. For homeowners and buyers, that creates opportunities to plan ahead with more confidence. A simple review now could give you peace of mind going into the new year. It’s a chance to tidy things up, explore your options, and know exactly where you stand. If you’d like to start 2026 on the right foot, get in touch and we’ll review your mortgage together. I’ll help you find the best way forward so you can move into the new year with clarity and confidence. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you start the year with a clear plan, confident decisions and a mortgage that works for you.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Most people picture getting a mortgage as a straightforward financial step, but for many it happens during some of the toughest moments in life. A new diagnosis, work worries, a relationship ending, juggling childcare, or coping with loss can all hit at the same time as making big decisions about a home. When everything feels up in the air, even looking at mortgage paperwork can feel like a mountain. The regulator acknowledges this too, noting that anyone can become vulnerable at any time. Stress, illness or major life changes can affect how well we take in information or how confident we feel making decisions. That’s where calm, clear support makes a real difference. It’s about explaining things in a way that feels manageable and giving people space to process what’s being discussed. It may mean checking understanding more often, slowing things down or adjusting communication to suit how someone feels on the day. Sometimes people value having someone they trust join a conversation with them. Sometimes they need information broken down into smaller parts. And sometimes they just need reassurance that it’s OK not to know everything straight away. The heart of it is simple: no one should feel alone with complicated decisions when they are already carrying a lot. Mortgage support isn’t only about products or repayments. It’s also about making a stressful moment feel a little less heavy, and helping someone move forward with clarity they can rely on. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Guiding you through the big decisions that shape your home, your finances and your future together.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Discover tailored mortgage solutions at The Mortgage Network. From expert advice and clear borrowing guidance to seamless application processing, we specialise in competitive options for homebuyers and Buy-to-Let investors. Trust our experience and lender relationships to secure the best mortgage for your needs. Looking for a mortgage? Here’s what we offer: Expert advice tailored to your needs. Clear guidance on borrowing limits. Assistance in finding the right mortgage product. Submission and processing of your mortgage application. At The Mortgage Network, we specialise in securing competitive mortgages for both homebuyers and Buy to Let Investors. With our extensive experience and strong lender relationships, we keep up with market changes to offer you the best options available. Mortgages Offering individual mortgage guidance tailored specifically to your needs Contact Us Book a Call First-time Buyer Welcome to The Mortgage Network, where we specialize in guiding first-time homebuyers through the exciting journey of purchasing their first property. Navigating mortgages can be complex, but we're here to simplify the process for you, providing expert advice and walking you through every step until you reach your new front door. Here's how we can assist you: Establishing Your Budget: We'll help you determine a realistic budget using our budget planner tool, ensuring that your mortgage is comfortably affordable. Deposit Guidance: Understanding how much deposit you need is crucial. We'll explain the concept of loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and help you explore mortgage deals based on your deposit size. Considering Extra Costs: Beyond the purchase price, we'll help you factor in additional expenses like furnishings, renovations, conveyancing fees, and stamp duty. We source the most suitable mortgage options from a wide range of lenders. This ensures you have access to competitive rates and a mortgage product that matches your needs. Budgeting for Household Expenses: We'll guide you in budgeting for ongoing expenses such as council tax, utilities, and maintenance, ensuring there are no surprises once you're a homeowner. Remember, a mortgage is a long-term commitment, so finding the right solution tailored to your needs is paramount. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Moving Home Welcome to The Mortgage Network, your go-to destination for expert mortgage assistance when you're moving home. Don't wait until the eleventh hour to determine your borrowing capacity or find the right mortgage product. Call us today to position yourself for a successful home purchase. Navigating the residential mortgage market can be daunting, with each lender offering different criteria and a myriad of products. With our extensive experience and wealth of knowledge, we're equipped to guide you through this maze, regardless of your background, credit situation, or unique requirements. When you choose The Mortgage Network, you benefit from: Expert Guidance : Our seasoned advisers will help you make informed decisions, ensuring you select a mortgage that aligns with your financial needs and goals. Comprehensive Lender Options: We source the most suitable mortgage options from a wide range of lenders, not limited to your current lender. This ensures you have access to competitive rates and suitable terms. Financial Clarity : We'll provide insights into how much you can afford to borrow, the associated fees, and what your monthly mortgage payments are likely to be, giving you a clear picture of your financial commitments. It's crucial to seek impartial advice rather than simply reverting to your existing lender. While they may offer mortgage products, there could be better options available elsewhere, potentially saving you money in the long run. Don't navigate the homebuying process alone. Contact The Mortgage Network today and let us guide you toward a smooth and successful move. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Switching to different lenders may incur extra costs. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Remortgage Could you be overpaying on your mortgage? As your mortgage renewal date approaches, it's crucial to explore whether you could secure a better deal. When your fixed-term mortgage expires, you're often shifted to your lender's standard variable rate (SVR), potentially resulting in higher monthly payments. Don't wait until it's too late – take proactive steps to obtain a competitive mortgage. Remortgaging requires a keen understanding of the market, and with our years of experience, we possess unparalleled market intelligence to guide you through this process. Consider the following factors when contemplating a remortgage: Fees: While lower rates may seem enticing, it's essential to account for administration and setup fees associated with changing your mortgage. Additionally, consider legal and valuation fees, which some lenders may pay upon switching. Equity: The amount of equity you have in your property plays a significant role in securing favorable mortgage deals. A higher equity can often result in better terms from lenders. Capital Raising: If you're seeking to release capital through a remortgage, assess how this will affect your equity and, consequently, the deals available to you. Fixed or Variable Rates: Evaluate market conditions and personal preferences to determine whether fixed or variable rates suit your needs. Transitioning to your lender's Standard Variable Rate may lead to increased monthly payments, making a switch to another deal advantageous. No matter your requirements, we're here to provide expert guidance and support throughout your remortgaging journey. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Buy to Let In today's ever-evolving buy-to-let environment, staying informed and securing the right mortgage product is paramount. At The Mortgage Network, our experienced Buy to Let mortgage advisers are dedicated to helping property investors like you find competitive mortgage offers tailored to your needs. Whether you're a novice investor or a seasoned landlord, seeking a standard loan or facing a more complex situation, our advisers are equipped to provide expert guidance and equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about your mortgage. Here are the key benefits of our service: Proven Experience : With over 30 years of demonstrated mortgage expertise, we excel in sourcing competitive mortgage products for our clients. Comprehensive Mortgage Options : We meticulously search and compare buy-to-let mortgage deals from over 70 different lenders, ensuring we find a product ideally suited to you. Fantastic Mortgage Deals: You’ll get access to various amazing deals that are not available without an intermediary or from the high street banks. Insightful Knowledge : Our clients value our deep understanding of the mortgage market, returning to us time and again for expert insights and guidance. Client Satisfaction : We're dedicated to delivering excellent client service and professional mortgage advice, ensuring your satisfaction every step of the way. When it comes to buy-to-let mortgages, it's essential to understand how they differ from residential mortgages: The deposit required for a buy-to-let mortgage is generally higher, typically at least 25% of the property value. Unlike residential mortgages, where borrowing is linked to income, buy-to-let lenders assess the property's rental potential to determine borrowing capacity. Whether you're venturing into property investment for the first time or expanding an existing portfolio, securing the right buy-to-let mortgage is crucial. Trust The Mortgage Network to guide you through the process and unlock the full potential of your property investments. For more information, please call us on 020 8798 0184 or use our contact form. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Contact Us Call us on: 020 8798 0184 Or fill in the form and we will get back to you as soon as possible First Name* Last Name* Email* Phone Number Reason for enquiry* Residential Mortgage Message* SUBMIT By submitting your details in the form you are consenting to our Privacy Policy and understand how we collect and use your personal data.

The Mortgage Network’s role is to provide you with professional mortgage advice. We are dedicated to Buy to Let and Residential mortgages – helping you find the most suitable mortgage solution for your needs. The mortgage market has never been so complicated. Our expert mortgage advisor will guide you on your options and find you a solution that is specifically right for your needs. Guiding First-Time Buyers, Home Movers, Buy-to-Let & Remortgages We’ll help find the right mortgage for you Contact Us Book a Call Experience With over 30 years mortgage experience we pride ourselves in finding our customers a competitive mortgage deal. Choice We offer a wide choice of Residential and Buy to Let Mortgages from a comprehensive range of lenders. Knowledge Our customers return time and time again for our insightful knowledge and understanding of the mortgage market. Satisfaction We are totally committed to providing excellent client service & professional mortgage advice. See what our clients say. What We Offer Residential Mortgages Mortgages for first-time buyers, home movers and remortgages. Access to over 65 lenders. Buy to Let Mortgages Mortgages for first-time property investors and experienced landlords. Access to over 70 lenders. Insurance We offer tailored advice for life cover, critical illness cover and income protection. Learn More Learn More Learn More Contact Us Book a Call Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. If you are experiencing financial difficulty and struggling to make repayments, then you can contact your lender who may be able to help taking account of your individual circumstances. You may want to contact one of the free impartial money guidance and debt advice services such as StepChange, Citizens Advice, or Turn2Us. You can make a complaint to our network Sesame. Please contact them on the details below: Write to: The Customer Relations Department, Sesame Limited, Fourth Floor, Jackson House, Sibson Road, Sale, M33 7RR. Email: CustomerRelations@sbg.co.uk | Telephone: 0345 0456 800 (Mon-Fri 9.00 am to 5.00 pm) Speak to an advisor Mortgage News & Articles 1 2 3 4 5 Contact Us Call us on: 020 8798 0184 Or fill in the form and we will get back to you as soon as possible First Name* Last Name* Email* Phone Number Reason for enquiry* Residential Mortgage Message* SUBMIT By submitting your details in the form you are consenting to our Privacy Policy and understand how we collect and use your personal data.

Earn rewards with The Mortgage Network's Refer a Friend program. Recommend our mortgage or life insurance services to friends and family, and receive a £50 Gift Voucher once their application is approved. It's our way of saying thank you for your trust and support. Refer A Friend We value your referrals: Let us show our appreciation with rewards Enjoy a £50 Gift Voucher! Satisfied with our service? Spread the word to friends and family, and we'll show our appreciation with a £50 Gift Voucher of your choice. Simply encourage them to reach out to us directly and mention your recommendation. Once their Mortgage or Life Insurance application is approved, we'll send you a £50 Gift Voucher as a token of our gratitude. Terms & Conditions Vouchers are paid per introduction and are not based on products sold i.e. if an introduction is made for a Mortgage, and Life Insurance is also sold, only one voucher will be paid. There are no restrictions on the number of referrals made to The Mortgage Network, however there is a maximum of six vouchers issued to a referrer per annum. The voucher is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. Mortgages: The voucher will be sent to the referrer upon legal completion of the mortgage. Life Insurance: The voucher will be sent to the referrer once the Life Insurance Policy has been put on risk. The Mortgage Network cannot be held liable for any delivery issues once the voucher has left their offices. The Mortgage Network reserves the right to amend, vary or cancel these terms and conditions at any given time.