With the end of the tax year approaching in April, now is the ideal time to review your finances – and your mortgage should be part of that conversation.
Many homeowners wait until summer to make changes, but there are smart mortgage moves to make before the end of the tax year that could put you in a stronger position for 2026.
Whether you’re a homeowner, first-time buyer, landlord or self-employed, here’s what to consider before 5th April.
1️⃣ Use This Year’s ISA Allowance Before It Resets
The ISA allowance currently sits at £20,000 per tax year, and it resets in April.
If you’re saving towards a deposit, particularly using a Lifetime ISA, now is the time to check:
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Have you maximised your allowance?
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Could you benefit from the 25% government bonus?
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Are your savings positioned correctly for a mortgage application?
For first-time buyers, reviewing ISA savings before the tax year ends can make a significant difference to your deposit strategy.
2️⃣ Review Your Fixed Rate Before It Expires
One of the most important mortgage moves before the end of the tax year is reviewing your current deal, especially if it ends in 2026.
Many lenders allow you to secure a new rate up to six months in advance. That means:
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You could lock in a deal now
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Protect yourself from potential rate fluctuations
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Avoid reverting to your lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR)
Even if your rate doesn’t end until later this year, February and March are smart months to start reviewing options.
3️⃣ Consider Overpayments (If Allowed)
Some mortgage products allow overpayments of up to 10% per year without penalty.
Before the tax year ends, ask yourself:
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Could a small lump sum reduce your overall interest?
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Are you within your lender’s overpayment allowance?
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Would it benefit your future remortgage position?
Always check Early Repayment Charge (ERC) rules first.
4️⃣ Self-Employed? Prepare for the New Tax Year
If you’re self-employed, the end of the tax year is particularly important.
Mortgage lenders typically assess:
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Tax year overviews
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Consistency of income
Getting your accounts organised now can make applying for a mortgage far smoother in the months ahead.
5️⃣ Landlords: Review Portfolio Strategy
For landlords, the end of the tax year is a natural review point.
Consider:
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Portfolio performance
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Limited company vs personal ownership structures
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Upcoming regulatory or cost changes
Planning before April puts you ahead of the spring market.
6️⃣ First-Time Buyers: Get Mortgage Ready Now
The property market often becomes more active in spring.
Getting an Agreement in Principle (AIP) before the end of the tax year can:
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Strengthen your buying position
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Help you understand affordability
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Reduce delays once you find the right property
Being mortgage-ready early can give you an advantage.
The end of the tax year isn’t just an accounting milestone, it’s a smart checkpoint for your mortgage strategy.
Reviewing your position now could help you:
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Avoid unnecessary costs
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Strengthen your financial planning
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Enter the new tax year with clarity
If you’d like to discuss the mortgage moves to make before the end of the tax year, our team at Your Mortgage Shop is here to help.
