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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 02/05/2024

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Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant
Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant T: 01603 476169 E: Email Caitlyn
02/05/2024

Moneyfacts Pick of the Week

The Moneyfactscompare.co.uk Pick of the Week showcases the best of the latest products or rate changes to hit the consumer finance market.

Brief product details, together with independent Moneyfacts analysis, can be used with confidence in your finance sections. You can select one or two products to sit beside a relevant story or use them all as a general feature provided they are sourced to our expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Spokesperson, Caitlyn Eastell, has analysed the following deals, along with their perks, of note:

Moneyfacts Pick of the Week

The Moneyfactscompare.co.uk Pick of the Week showcases the best of the latest products or rate changes to hit the consumer finance market.

Brief product details, together with independent Moneyfacts analysis, can be used with confidence in your finance sections. You can select one or two products to sit beside a relevant story or use them all as a general feature provided they are sourced to our expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Spokesperson, Caitlyn Eastell, has analysed the following deals, along with their perks, of note:

Savings

Charter Savings Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Charter Savings Bank has increased the rate on its 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA this week, which now pays 4.70% boosting its position in the top rate tables when compared against other fixed rate ISAs currently available. Savers would be wise to carefully consider earlier access as any withdrawal before the one-year term is subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty. However, on a more positive note, further additions can be made for 30 days from account opening via a nominated account and savers can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.70% gross / 4.70% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.60% gross / 4.70% AER
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 30 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Permitted, allows Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range.

 

Paragon Bank – 2 Year Fixed Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank has removed the existing customers opening restriction from its range of fixed rate cash ISAs. The two-year fixed cash ISA pays a rate of 4.55% and takes a prominent position within the top rate tables when compared to other fixed ISAs of a similar term. Although earlier access is permitted, this is subject to a 180-day loss of interest penalty. Savers will need to invest a minimum of £500 initially, however, they may be glad to see that further additions can be made for 28 days from the account opening. Overall, this deal receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.55% gross/ 4.55% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.46% gross / 4.55% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £500
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted for 28 days from account opening
  • Transfers in: Permitted within 28 days of account opening. Accepts Cash and Stocks & Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Paragon’s range. Flexible ISA rules apply.

 

Castle Trust Bank – Fixed Rate e-Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, Castle Trust Bank has reduced the rate on its three-year Fixed Rate e-Cash ISA. The ISA retains a competitive position within its sector and pays an attractive 4.20%. This account may well appeal to savers looking to utilise their ISA allowance and receive a guaranteed return on their investments in the long-term. Although earlier access is permitted, it will be subject to 270 days’ loss of interest and closure of the account, which should be carefully considered. Additionally, it is important savers fund their account with a minimum opening investment of £1,000 within the first 14 days, otherwise they will receive no interest payment and their money will be refunded. However, savers will be able to contribute more funds if they wish as further additions are permitted for 14 days from the account opening. On assessment, the account secures an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.20% gross / 4.20% AER payable on maturity
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 270-day loss of interest penalty and closure of account
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 270-day loss of interest penalty and closure of the account
  • Opening account: Online and via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Online and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. New customers can only open an account via an online Self Service Portal, after which they gain access to the mobile app and can open subsequent accounts using the Self Service Portal or mobile app. Castle Trust Bank will plant a tree when an e-Cash ISA or e-Saver account is opened and funded within the 14-day funding window. If minimum investment is not made within 14 days of account opening, no interest is paid and the balance will be refunded.

 

Mortgages

Santander – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Santander was one of a few lenders to increase rates across its fixed rate offerings, this week. Seeing a small rise of 0.13% is its five-year 60% loan-to-value fixed rate mortgage, which is now priced at 4.35% and available for house purchase. Borrowers can also benefit from a reasonable £999 arrangement fee as well as an appealing incentive package, which includes a free valuation. Overall, this product earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% fixed rate to 2.9.29
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Leek Building Society – Two-year discounted-variable rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Alongside amending a few of its offerings to its mortgage range Leek Building Society has launched a new two-year discounted variable rate at 75% loan-to-value, priced at 4.99% (3.25% discount). This may be an enticing option for borrowers who are comfortable with a variable rate product, as this option offers a competitive initial rate and no upfront product fee. The deal also comes with an attractive incentive package attached, which may boost its appeal for those keen to save on upfront costs linked with their new mortgage. Assessed as a whole package, this option receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.99% discounted-variable rate (collared at 3.49%) for two years
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: England and Wales.

 

Nationwide Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 85% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Nationwide BS’s latest refresh has seen several rates increase across existing deals this week. One deal seeing a cut is its two-year fixed mortgage at 85% loan-to-value for house purchase customers. Now priced at an attractive 5.04% for the next two years, this deal takes a competitive ranking within its sector. It carries a fair fee of £999, which borrowers have the option of adding to the advance. Borrowers also have the choice of making overpayments and underpayments, subject to approval and having previously made overpayments. This deal also offers an incentive package, which includes a free valuation. Overall, it earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.04% fixed rate for two years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 85%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Underpayments considered subject to approval and overpayments having been made previously
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland (excluding Scilly Isles).

 

Buy-to-Let

Leek Building Society – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 65% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Leek Building Society has reduced the rate on its five-year fixed rate deal at 65% loan-to-value. It is now priced at 4.52% until 31 August 2029. The deal carries a £1,495 product fee, however, there is an attractive incentive package attached which may further appeal to landlords looking to save on the upfront cost as it includes a free valuation and, upon completion, £400 cashback. On assessment, this deal retains a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.52% fixed rate to 31.8.29
  • Product fee: £1,495
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 65%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £400 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: England and Wales.

 

Leeds Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, alongside extending end dates, Leeds Building Society has increased selected fixed rates across its buy-to-let range. One deal to see a small rise of 0.10% is its two-year fixed mortgage at 60% loan-to-value, now priced at 5.04% until 31.8.26. There is a £999 product fee associated, however, the deal also carries an attractive incentive package of a free valuation and, for those remortgaging, help towards costs. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.04% fixed rate to 31.8.26
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and, for those remortgaging, help towards costs
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments by lump sums, subject to approval, or regular methods
  • Lending area: England, Wales, mainland Scotland and Northern Ireland.

 

Savings

Charter Savings Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Charter Savings Bank has increased the rate on its 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA this week, which now pays 4.70% boosting its position in the top rate tables when compared against other fixed rate ISAs currently available. Savers would be wise to carefully consider earlier access as any withdrawal before the one-year term is subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty. However, on a more positive note, further additions can be made for 30 days from account opening via a nominated account and savers can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.70% gross / 4.70% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.60% gross / 4.70% AER
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 30 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Permitted, allows Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range.

 

Paragon Bank – 2 Year Fixed Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank has removed the existing customers opening restriction from its range of fixed rate cash ISAs. The two-year fixed cash ISA pays a rate of 4.55% and takes a prominent position within the top rate tables when compared to other fixed ISAs of a similar term. Although earlier access is permitted, this is subject to a 180-day loss of interest penalty. Savers will need to invest a minimum of £500 initially, however, they may be glad to see that further additions can be made for 28 days from the account opening. Overall, this deal receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.55% gross/ 4.55% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.46% gross / 4.55% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £500
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted for 28 days from account opening
  • Transfers in: Permitted within 28 days of account opening. Accepts Cash and Stocks & Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Paragon’s range. Flexible ISA rules apply.

 

Castle Trust Bank – Fixed Rate e-Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, Castle Trust Bank has reduced the rate on its three-year Fixed Rate e-Cash ISA. The ISA retains a competitive position within its sector and pays an attractive 4.20%. This account may well appeal to savers looking to utilise their ISA allowance and receive a guaranteed return on their investments in the long-term. Although earlier access is permitted, it will be subject to 270 days’ loss of interest and closure of the account, which should be carefully considered. Additionally, it is important savers fund their account with a minimum opening investment of £1,000 within the first 14 days, otherwise they will receive no interest payment and their money will be refunded. However, savers will be able to contribute more funds if they wish as further additions are permitted for 14 days from the account opening. On assessment, the account secures an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.20% gross / 4.20% AER payable on maturity
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 270-day loss of interest penalty and closure of account
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 270-day loss of interest penalty and closure of the account
  • Opening account: Online and via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Online and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. New customers can only open an account via an online Self Service Portal, after which they gain access to the mobile app and can open subsequent accounts using the Self Service Portal or mobile app. Castle Trust Bank will plant a tree when an e-Cash ISA or e-Saver account is opened and funded within the 14-day funding window. If minimum investment is not made within 14 days of account opening, no interest is paid and the balance will be refunded.

 

Mortgages

Santander – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Santander was one of a few lenders to increase rates across its fixed rate offerings, this week. Seeing a small rise of 0.13% is its five-year 60% loan-to-value fixed rate mortgage, which is now priced at 4.35% and available for house purchase. Borrowers can also benefit from a reasonable £999 arrangement fee as well as an appealing incentive package, which includes a free valuation. Overall, this product earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% fixed rate to 2.9.29
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Leek Building Society – Two-year discounted-variable rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Alongside amending a few of its offerings to its mortgage range Leek Building Society has launched a new two-year discounted variable rate at 75% loan-to-value, priced at 4.99% (3.25% discount). This may be an enticing option for borrowers who are comfortable with a variable rate product, as this option offers a competitive initial rate and no upfront product fee. The deal also comes with an attractive incentive package attached, which may boost its appeal for those keen to save on upfront costs linked with their new mortgage. Assessed as a whole package, this option receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.99% discounted-variable rate (collared at 3.49%) for two years
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: England and Wales.

 

Nationwide Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 85% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Nationwide BS’s latest refresh has seen several rates increase across existing deals this week. One deal seeing a cut is its two-year fixed mortgage at 85% loan-to-value for house purchase customers. Now priced at an attractive 5.04% for the next two years, this deal takes a competitive ranking within its sector. It carries a fair fee of £999, which borrowers have the option of adding to the advance. Borrowers also have the choice of making overpayments and underpayments, subject to approval and having previously made overpayments. This deal also offers an incentive package, which includes a free valuation. Overall, it earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.04% fixed rate for two years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 85%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Underpayments considered subject to approval and overpayments having been made previously
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland (excluding Scilly Isles).

 

Buy-to-Let

Leek Building Society – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 65% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Leek Building Society has reduced the rate on its five-year fixed rate deal at 65% loan-to-value. It is now priced at 4.52% until 31 August 2029. The deal carries a £1,495 product fee, however, there is an attractive incentive package attached which may further appeal to landlords looking to save on the upfront cost as it includes a free valuation and, upon completion, £400 cashback. On assessment, this deal retains a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.52% fixed rate to 31.8.29
  • Product fee: £1,495
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 65%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £400 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: England and Wales.

 

Leeds Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, alongside extending end dates, Leeds Building Society has increased selected fixed rates across its buy-to-let range. One deal to see a small rise of 0.10% is its two-year fixed mortgage at 60% loan-to-value, now priced at 5.04% until 31.8.26. There is a £999 product fee associated, however, the deal also carries an attractive incentive package of a free valuation and, for those remortgaging, help towards costs. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.04% fixed rate to 31.8.26
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and, for those remortgaging, help towards costs
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments by lump sums, subject to approval, or regular methods
  • Lending area: England, Wales, mainland Scotland and Northern Ireland.

 

Notes to editors

Pioneering financial comparison technology for over 35 years.

Moneyfacts Group plc is the UK’s leading provider of retail financial product data. Used by virtually every bank and building society in the UK, and supplied to the Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Ombudsman Service, HM Treasury, Prudential Regulatory Authority and UK Finance.

Our expert research team monitors the thousands of mortgages, savings, credit card, personal loan, business banking, life, pension and investment products in the UK.

Moneyfactscompare.co.uk is the financial product price comparison site, launched as Moneyfacts.co.uk in 2000 and rebranded to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk in 2023, which helps consumers compare thousands of financial products, including credit cards, savings, mortgages and many more. Unlike other comparison sites, Moneyfactscompare.co.uk shows whole of market data regardless of commercial bias, showing consumers a true picture of the best products based on the criteria they select.

We hope you find this press release insightful. We would appreciate a link back to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk if you decide to source this information.

For more information about us please see our key facts.

Broadcast

Our broadcast suite enables our finance experts to appear in-vision for television, and we regularly comment live on national and regional radio.

To arrange an interview for radio or television, please contact our press department. We have an in-house broadcast room.

 

Notes to editors

Pioneering financial comparison technology for over 35 years.

Moneyfacts Group plc is the UK’s leading provider of retail financial product data. Used by virtually every bank and building society in the UK, and supplied to the Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Ombudsman Service, HM Treasury, Prudential Regulatory Authority and UK Finance.

Our expert research team monitors the thousands of mortgages, savings, credit card, personal loan, business banking, life, pension and investment products in the UK.

Moneyfactscompare.co.uk is the financial product price comparison site, launched as Moneyfacts.co.uk in 2000 and rebranded to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk in 2023, which helps consumers compare thousands of financial products, including credit cards, savings, mortgages and many more. Unlike other comparison sites, Moneyfactscompare.co.uk shows whole of market data regardless of commercial bias, showing consumers a true picture of the best products based on the criteria they select.

We hope you find this press release insightful. We would appreciate a link back to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk if you decide to source this information.

For more information about us please see our key facts.

Broadcast

Our broadcast suite enables our finance experts to appear in-vision for television, and we regularly comment live on national and regional radio.

To arrange an interview for radio or television, please contact our press department. We have an in-house broadcast room.

 

Contact Us If you're looking for extra comment, a chart or more information, then please give us a call. We are always more than happy to help.
James Hyde Press & PR Manager
Rachel Springall Press Officer / Finance Expert
Caitlyn Eastell Apprentice Press & PR Assistant