The number of loans advanced to first-time buyers in October returned to levels similar to those seen over the summer following a slow September, according to new data released today by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

Lending to home movers also increased, contributing to a jump in house purchase lending. Remortgage lending, while still relatively modest, reached its highest level in 6 months.

A total of 20,000 loans were advanced to first-time buyers in October, a rise of 14% compared to last month and up by 19% compared to this time last year. In total, loans to first-time buyers were worth £2.5 billion in October, up on the £2.2 billion in September and the £2.1 billion advanced at the same time last year.

At 80%, the average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio was unchanged in October compared to August and September – this figure has essentially remained static for the last two years.

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First-time buyers continued to favour properties priced between £125,000 and £250,000 in October, with 49% buying properties in this band. The percentage of income consumed by initial mortgage interest and capital repayments was unchanged at 20.0%, remaining more favourable than in 2007 when total capital and interest payments typically consumed closer to 25% of first-time buyer income.

Although not matching the same rate of growth as first-time buyers, lending to home movers increased in October. A total of 29,400 loans were advanced to home movers, worth £4.8 billion, a rise of 13% compared to September and up by 5% on the same period last year.

Commenting on the data, CML director general Paul Smee said: "More positive figures in October, after a slow September, suggest that the underlying trend in house purchase lending of modest year-on-year growth will continue. However, usual seasonal factors may act as a counter to lending levels in the coming months.

"An up-tick in remortgage lending may be an early sign of a small positive impact of the Funding for Lending scheme, but it’s still too soon to evaluate the effects of the scheme.

"If the incremental improvements in house purchase lending that we are currently seeing persist as we expect them to, then next year should feel a more stable and positive year in the housing and mortgage markets."

(CD/GK)