Buying your first home is exciting, but it can feel hard when you’re saving for a deposit and trying to work out what you can afford. 

At Perenna, we believe owning a home should feel more achievable. That is why we take a flexible approach to lending, helping more people take the next step with confidence. 

Start with a smaller deposit 

Saving a deposit is one of the hardest parts of buying a home. 

For example, on a £300,000 home, a 5% deposit is £15,000. It is still a lot of money, but easier to reach than a larger deposit. 

With Perenna, you can buy a new build home with just a 5% deposit*, helping you get started sooner. 

We are also flexible with how you fund your deposit, whether it is savings, developer incentives, or a mix. This can make getting a home easier. 

Flexible mortgages built around real life 

No two people are the same, and financial circumstances do not always follow a straight line. 

That is why our approach is clear, supportive, and flexible: 

• Fixed-rate mortgages for predictable monthly payments  

• Borrow up to 6 times your income* 

• Flexible early repayment charges if you decide to sell or move 

It is not just about the first step. Buying a home is often part of a longer journey. 

People move, circumstances change, and needs evolve. 

That is why flexibility matters at every stage, so you can move forward with confidence. 

Ready to take the next step? 

If you are thinking about buying a home, speaking to a broker can help you understand your options based on your individual circumstances. You may find there are more routes available than you first expected.

Speak to your broker or visit Unbiased to find one near you. 

*Subject to criteria 

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments. 

Correct at time of publishing.

Mortgages can feel complicated. Rates move, headlines change, and it’s not always clear what it means for you. 

The good news? You don’t need to react to every change. With the right information, you can take a calm, confident approach. 

Why mortgage rates change 

Mortgage rates naturally rise and fall over time. 

They’re influenced by things like: 

• the wider economy  

• inflation  

• changes in financial markets  

You don’t need to track every detail. What matters is understanding how changes could affect your own plans. 

What this means for you 

If you’re on a fixed-rate mortgage, your payments stay the same for your fixed period. That gives you certainty, even if rates move. 

If you’re not fixed, your payments may change over time. 

Either way, planning can help you: 

• avoid surprises  

• feel more in control  

• make decisions at your own pace  

Your options 

There’s no single “right” choice, only what works for your life. 

At Perenna, we focus on giving you flexibility and certainty: 

• Fixed rates from 5-15 years → keeps your payments predictable so you can plan ahead  

• Options to move or overpay (subject to criteria)  

• A more balanced view of affordability  

Because your mortgage should work around your life, not the other way around. 

Taking the next step 

You don’t need to rush decisions because of market changes. 

Taking time to understand your options, and speaking to a broker, can help you choose what’s right for you. 

At Perenna, we design flexible mortgages built for real life, helping you plan ahead with more certainty and less stress. 

Explore your options or speak to a broker to learn more. 

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments. 

Correct at time of publishing.

We’re excited to announce that Perenna is now authorised to accept retail deposits. These are offered via our partner, Raisin, Europe’s leading savings marketplace. 

Retail deposits provide a stable, long-term way to fund our mortgages, helping us offer certainty for homeowners across the UK. 

This launch marks an important step in Perenna’s journey as a bank that grows and evolves with its customers. We’re committed to creating products that give people stability and flexibility, so they can focus on living their lives, not worrying about their finances.

By adding retail deposits, we are strengthening our funding approach, supporting long-term lending, and helping more UK homeowners plan with confidence. 

Read the full announcement here.

As we step into 2026, home design is moving away from perfectly polished interiors. Instead, the focus is on homes that feel personal, lived in, and full of character. 

Over the past few years, bold wallpapers, smart tech, and eco-friendly upgrades have led the way. Now, the focus is shifting to comfort, character, and spaces designed for real life. 

2026 is about warmth, character, and homes that feel genuinely lived in. Spaces that support real life. Materials that age well. Design choices you will not tire of quickly. 

Here are the key home design trends for 2026 to inspire your space… 

1. 1. Lived-in, loved interiors

Perfectly styled rooms are giving way to homes that feel personal and relaxed. Think layered textures, well-loved furniture, and pieces collected over time. 

Imperfections are part of the charm. A slightly worn table or a vintage chair tells a story and makes a space feel welcoming rather than staged. 

2. 2. Characterful wood

Light, uniform wood is out. Rich, textured wood is in. Reclaimed or dark-stained pieces add warmth and depth, whether it is a statement dining table or built-in shelving. 

3. 3. Textile wall art

Walls are becoming softer and more expressive. Handmade textiles, tapestries, and even vintage quilts are being used as wall art. 

This trend adds texture, warmth, and personality, especially in living rooms and bedrooms. It is an easy way to make a space feel more human and less polished. 

4. 4. ‘Occasional’sofas 

Smaller, playful sofas are back in style. Vintage or antique pieces add colour and character without taking over a room. 

They work well in bedrooms, hallways, or quiet corners that create flexible spaces that feel inviting and lived in. 

5. 5. Hand-painted and painterly tiles

Tiles are getting more expressive. Hand-painted, floral, or patterned designs bring charm to kitchens and bathrooms. Each tile feels unique, adding a personal, crafted touch. 

6. 6. Earthy, layered colours

Colour palettes in 2026 are grounded and calm. Think chocolate browns, dusty blues, deep greens, and warm ochre tones. These colours work together to create restful spaces, perfect for rooms you spend a lot of time in. 

7. 7. Tactile metals and sculptural furniture

Metal remains popular but in softer, more tactile forms. Brushed finishes, aged brass, and sculptural shapes add interest without feeling cold. Paired with wood, marble, or linen, these pieces bring balance and texture to a room. 

8. 8. Decorative details and tassels

Small touches can change a room. Tassels, trims, and fringes on cushions, lamps, or furniture add charm and personality. A simple way to refresh your space without a full redesign. 

9. 9. Freestanding showers

Bathrooms are becoming more flexible and stylish. Freestanding showers open up the space, letting light flow and creating an airy feel. They pair perfectly with timber floors, classic windows, and textured tiles, blending practicality with a touch of everyday luxury. 

Trends come and go, but the best homes are built around the people who live in them. Choosing timeless materials, flexible layouts, and pieces you truly love can help your home support you for years to come. 

At Perenna, we believe your home should fit around your life, not the other way round. Whether you are planning your next move or making the most of the home you already have, thinking long term can help you feel more confident and at ease. 

Correct at time of publishing. 

Here are the things people ask us most. 

1. 1. Is my mortgage safe with Perenna?

Yes. Perenna is a fully authorised UK bank, regulated by the FCA and PRA. We follow strict rules to protect our customers, so you can have confidence that your mortgage is secure. 

2. 2. What does “Fixed for Life” mean?

It means the interest rate on your mortgage is fixed for the whole term. So if you take out a 30 or 40-year mortgage, your monthly payments will not change during that time – even if interest rates rise. No teaser rates. No payment shocks. 

3. 3. Who can apply for a Perenna mortgage?

You can apply if you: 

• Are aged 18 or over. 

• Are buying or remortgaging a home in England or Wales. 

Like all lenders, we carry out affordability checks to make sure the mortgage is right for you. 

4. 4. How do I apply?

All Perenna mortgages are arranged through independent mortgage brokers. A broker can help you: 

• Understand your options and find the right mortgage for you. 

• Check how much you could borrow based on your circumstances. 

• Guide you through the application process step by step. 

Use our broker finder to get started and connect with a local, trusted professional. 

5. 5. How are Perenna mortgages funded?

Our mortgages are funded through long-term covered bonds. This allows us to offer long-term fixed rates and focus on stability rather than short-term deals. 

6. 6. What types of mortgages does Perenna offer?

We currently offer: 

• Fixed for Life mortgages. 

• 5, 7, 10 and 15-year fixed-rate mortgages with flexible features. 

All our mortgages are for homes you live in (we do not offer buy-to-let mortgages). 

7. 7. Are Perenna mortgages flexible?

Yes, flexibility is built in. Depending on the product, you could: 

• Take your mortgage with you if you move home. 

• Make extra payments of up to 10% of the balance outstanding on your mortgage. 

• Switch to a new deal after five years with no charge. 

This means your mortgage can adapt as your life changes, giving you more control and peace of mind. 

8. 8. What happens when my fixed term ends?

When a fixed-term deal ends, your mortgage moves to the Perenna Reversion Rate.
This is like a standard variable rate and can go up or down based on market conditions. Your broker can talk you through your options before your fixed rate ends. 

9. 9. Can I get a mortgage later in life?

Yes. Some Perenna products have no maximum age limit, so age is not a barrier – what matters is affordability. You will still get predictable monthly payments and flexible features, like the ability to move home or make extra payments. Use our mortgage calculator to see what you might be able to borrow or speak to a broker for guidance tailored to your situation.

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments. 

Correct at time of publishing.

Buying your first home in 2026 can feel exciting – and a little overwhelming. But by following the right steps, the process becomes much clearer. This First-Time Buyer Checklist breaks everything down, so you know what to do, when, and what to prepare. 

Let’s take it one step at a time. 

1. 1. Get clear on your budget

A clear budget is the foundation of your home-buying journey. 

Checklist: 

• Work out how much deposit you’ve saved 

• List your regular monthly spending to work out how much you can afford to pay towards a mortgage each month 

• Use a mortgage calculator to see example monthly payments 

• Factor in extra costs like legal fees, surveys, and moving costs 

• Don’t forget about extra costs into your budget that you may not have had to pay before if you were renting – such as buildings insurance, or service charges if you are thinking of buying a flat.  

2. 2. Check your credit score

Your credit score helps lenders understand how you manage borrowing. 

Checklist: 

• Check your score with a trusted credit agency 

• Correct any errors on your report 

• Pay bills on time 

• Be aware of how much of your available credit you are using. 

3. 3. Understand your mortgage options

There is no “one perfect mortgage.” What matters is choosing a structure that works for your lifestyle and budget. 

Checklist: 

• Speak with a mortgage broker 

• Understand long-term vs short-term fixed rates 

• Ask how different choices affect your payments and flexibility 

• Get a decision in principle to show estate agents that you qualify for a mortgage 

4. 4. Start your property search

Once you know your budget, you can look for homes with confidence. 

Checklist: 

• List your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” 

• Explore areas that match your lifestyle and budget 

• Set up property alerts on major sites 

• View a range of properties to compare options 

5. 5. Understand the extra costs

Many first-time buyers are surprised by additional fees – planning ahead helps you stay in control. 

Checklist: 

• Legal and solicitor fees 

• Valuation or survey costs 

• Moving and storage expenses 

• Home insurance 

• Potential Stamp Duty (if applicable to your purchase) 

6. 6. Make your offer

When you have found a home you love, you are ready to make an offer. 

Checklist: 

• Confirm your budget with your broker 

• Submit your offer through the estate agent 

• Wait for acceptance (negotiation is normal!) 

• Keep your broker updated 

7. 7. Prepare for the next steps

Once your offer is accepted, things start to move. 

Checklist: 

• Complete your mortgage application with your broker 

• Check the valuation report to make sure you don’t have any nasty surprises waiting for you when you move in – speak to your broker if you have any concerns 

• Work with your solicitor on the legal process 

• Review and sign the necessary documents 

• Confirm your exchange and completion dates 

The legal process can be quite lengthy and complex; be prepared to wait several months before you finally get the keys to your new home.  

Buying your first home in 2026 can be simple. Plan your budget, check your credit, explore mortgage options, and account for extra costs to stay in control every step of the way. 

Ready to take the next step? Perenna can help you find the right mortgage for your first home. Find a broker for personalised guidance.

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments.

Correct at time of publishing.

Buying a home in 2026? You will hear plenty of advice – some of it out of date. The market has changed. Long-term fixed rates and more flexible lending now give many buyers real certainty. 

Here are five mortgage myths you can safely ignore and how Perenna can help. 

Myth 1: You must remortgage every 2-5 years.

Truth: You don’t have to remortgage frequently.

Short-term fixes used to be the norm, but many people now prefer longer terms. With Perenna’s 7, 10 and 15-year fixed mortgages, your payments stay predictable for years. You won’t need to renegotiate every few years. 

Why people choose long-term fixes: 

• Predictable monthly payments 

• No need to remortgage every few years 

• Protection from sudden rate rises 

• Less admin, less stress 

Perenna benefit: Long-term fixed products with flexible ERCs – no charge to move home or repay with your own funds, plus up to 10% annual overpayments.

Myth 2: You need a huge deposit to buy a home.

Truth: Not anymore – many buyers start with 5%.

You don’t need a huge deposit to get started. What matters most is that your monthly payments are manageable. Perenna works with brokers on 5% deposit cases and can support schemes like Deposit Unlock.

How to approach it: 

• Start with the deposit you have 

• Explore 5% and 10% examples with a broker 

• Check first-time buyer schemes and incentives 

Perenna benefit: Borrow up to 95% of the property’s value and up to six times your income (subject to criteria), making it easier to get on the ladder.

Myth 3: Fixed rates are always more expensive.

Truth: Fixed rates are not always more costly.

A fixed rate can look higher at first, but it can save money and stress if rates rise. Perenna’s long-term fixes give you stability without tying you down. 

Fixed-rate benefits: 

• No sudden payment increases 

• Fewer remortgaging costs 

• Clear, predictable budgeting 

Perenna benefit: Long-term stability plus flexibility – switch product or move home without ERCs in many cases.

Myth 4: You can’t get a mortgage if you’re self-employed.

Truth: Self-employed buyers get mortgages every year.

Lenders will want proof of income, such as accounts or tax returns. The steps are slightly different if you are self-employed, but it is still very doable. A broker who understands these cases can help get everything in order. 

What helps most:

• Clear income documents 

• A broker who understands self-employed cases 

• Packaging your application correctly from the start 

Perenna benefit: Your income is presented clearly through a broker, and long-term fixed payments mean you can plan ahead with confidence – even if your earnings vary.

Myth 5: You cannot get a mortgage later in life.

Truth: You can get a mortgage at any age, even in retirement.

Many lenders no longer set a maximum age. What matters is whether you can afford the mortgage. That makes it easier to move, remortgage, or borrow in retirement. 

What lenders look for: 

• Your income 

• Long-term affordability 

• A clear plan for repayment 

Perenna benefit: No maximum age on certain products – applications are assessed on the property and your ability to repay, not your age.

Final thoughts 

The mortgage market in 2026 is more flexible than many think. Don’t let old myths hold you back. Speak to a broker who has access to Perenna’s products to see what’s possible.

Correct at time of publishing.

We are excited to add a 5-year fixed mortgage to our range, giving you even more flexibility and peace of mind. 

With this new product, you can:
• Make up to 10% overpayments each year
• Enjoy flexible ERCs – no charges if you sell, move, or repay with your own money 

Our 5-year fix sits alongside our Fixed for Life, 7, 10, and 15-year fixed products, so you can choose the mortgage that fits your life. 

At Perenna, we want to take the worry out of borrowing. Don’t build your life around your mortgage. One fix could give you the certainty and freedom to live your way. 

𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘂𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀.

Perenna has been named Best Remortgage Lender at the 2025 Personal Finance Awards. 

Because this award is voted for by real customers, it means a lot. It shows people want the certainty and calm that long-term fixed payments can bring. 

At Perenna, we want to make mortgages simple and steady. No surprises. No rising payments. Just clear, long-term confidence you can trust. 

Thank you to everyone who voted for us! 

We are looking forward to helping even more people feel secure about their future. 

Correct at time of publishing. 

At Perenna, we believe your mortgage should fit around your life – not the other way round! 

In a world of rising rates and uncertainty, w e are here to help you feel secure. That is why we have launched our new 7, 10, and 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, giving you long-term peace of mind, with the freedom to move when life does. 

Why homeowners are choosing Perenna? 

With our new long-term fixed rates, you can: 

• Enjoy steady payments for years to come – no surprises, no sudden changes. 

• Move home without penalties – no early repayment charges if you sell. 

• Pay a little extra each year to get mortgage-free faster (up to 10% overpayments). 

• Borrow with confidence – up to 6x your income and no maximum age. 

• Choose a term that suits your plans – 7, 10, or 15 years fixed. 

Stability that gives you freedom 

Whether you are buying your first home, growing your family, or planning for later life, our new range gives you control and certainty – so you can focus on living, not rates. 

Our 7-15 year fixed-rate mortgages have a flexible early repayment charge (ERC). There is no ERC if you move home or sell your house. 

Find out more about our long-term fixed rate mortgages here. 

Find a Perenna mortgage through a broker. Expert advice, tailored to you, every step of the way. 

Correct at time of publishing. 

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆.