Mortgage brokers from Primis Mortgage Network in the Midlands have expressed strong optimism regarding their business outlook for 2026. A recent survey conducted during an event in Warwickshire revealed that 74% of the brokers are either ‘optimistic’ or ‘somewhat optimistic’ about the year ahead.
Survey Insights on 2026 Projections
When discussing their expectations for 2026 compared to 2025, an impressive 81% of respondents foresee an increase in their business volume. Meanwhile, 18% anticipate steady business levels, and only 1% expect a decrease.
Confidence in Protection Volumes
- 83% of brokers predict more protection coverage arrangements this year compared to last.
- 13% expect their volumes to remain unchanged.
- 3% anticipate a decline in protection volumes.
Challenges Faced by Brokers
Despite their upbeat outlook, brokers remain realistic about the challenges ahead. Economic uncertainty or unemployment was cited by 51% of respondents as their biggest challenge in 2026. Additionally, 22% pointed to customer affordability pressures. Only 2% mentioned lower transaction volumes as their primary concern.
Opportunities in the Refinance Market
According to the survey, 56% of brokers see the refinance market as the most significant opportunity for their business in 2026. Other areas of interest include:
- First-time buyer mortgages: 16%
- Income protection: 13%
- Specialist or complex lending: 5%
- Life insurance: 4%
- Home mover mortgages: 3%
Interest Rate Expectations
Confidence is further bolstered by expectations surrounding interest rates, with 92% of brokers predicting a fall in the Bank of England’s base rate by the year’s end. Even amidst concerns regarding the FCA’s removal of the ‘advice trigger’, 65% of brokers stated this change did not worry them.
Expert Opinions
Neil Hoare, the sales director at LSL Financial Services, noted the significant potential for growth in 2026. He emphasized the opportunity presented by approximately 1.8 million fixed-rate mortgage deals set to expire, driving demand in the refinance market, particularly with anticipated lower rates. Additionally, brokers see this as a critical moment to reassess protection for clients whose circumstances may have changed.
Hoare stated, “As a network, our focus is on ensuring that our brokers have the right tools at their disposal. We aim to help them capitalize on the opportunities available and end 2026 in a considerably stronger position.”
