[For Intermediaries Only]

From 1st March 2026, The Stafford Building Society will reduce its Standard Variable Rates (SVRs) by 0.25 percentage points. The residential SVR will fall to 5.10%, now among the lowest in the UK. This change could improve affordability for complex mortgage cases that are often underserved by standard lending models. 

New SVRs from 1st March 2026: 

  • Residential SVR: 5.10% 
  • Buy-to-Let & Holiday Let SVR: 7.15% 

A Timely Move as Market Conditions Settle 

This reduction follows the Bank of England’s base rate cut in December 2025, a sign that mortgage markets are beginning to stabilise. However, many borrowers, especially those with layered incomes, non-standard properties, or unconventional ownership structures, still face rigid affordability assessments. 

The Stafford’s manual underwriting process and lower SVR, allows brokers to revisit previously declined cases and explore outcomes based on a full view of the applicant’s circumstances. 

“This isn’t just a rate cut, it’s about improving real-world affordability,” said Laura Lawton, Head of Mortgages at The Stafford Building Society. 

“Dropping our SVR to 5.10% gives brokers a valuable tool, especially when clients are close to affordability limits. We look at the full picture, not just a formula for responsible lending” 

Supporting a Broader Range of Borrowers 

Unlike lenders who apply fixed income multiples, The Stafford assesses affordability manually, enabling greater flexibility. This SVR cut could positively influence affordability, particularly for: 

  • Borrowers with multiple income sources (e.g. salary, bonus, pension) 
  • Applicants purchasing non-standard or rural properties 
  • Older clients drawing on pensions or SIPP income 
  • Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor (JBSP) arrangements 

Market Context 

According to Moneyfacts Group, the average residential SVR in the UK was 7.15% in February 2026. The Stafford’s new rate of 5.10% sits well below the national average. 

Source: Moneyfacts Group 050226 

Why Brokers Re-Choose Stafford: Complex Case Credentials 

Flexible Affordability 

  • Manual affordability assessments – no income multiples 
  • Earned income accepted up to age 75 
  • SIPP and investment income considered 
  • JBSP accepted – up to 4 applicants and incomes 

Property Versatility 

  • Up to 60% commercial use on mixed-use properties 
  • No maximum acreage 
  • Annexes and outbuildings accepted for own use or letting 
  • Section 106 agreements, overage clauses, and agricultural ties considered 
  • Properties requiring refurbishment welcomed 

Decisions Made by Real People 

  • Manual DIPs with direct access to underwriters 
  • Interest-only up to 70% LTV with a credible downsizing plan 
  • Individual case assessments with full-context underwriting 
  • Opportunity to Reassess Marginal Affordability Cases 

This SVR change gives brokers a reason to review cases that may not have fit previous affordability models. A lower variable rate, combined with a manual approach to underwriting, may improve outcomes for clients on the margins. 

“For borrowers near affordability thresholds, a 0.25% SVR drop could shift the outcome,” added Laura. 

“We remain focused on individual case assessment – especially when conventional models don’t tell the full story.” 

[Information For Intermediaries Only]