The number of mortgages available to those with a limited deposit has risen to its highest level in over two and a half years, bringing hope for first time buyers who tend to have smaller down payments.
Average monthly rents in England and Wales burst through the £700 barrier last month as a shortage of new homes and mortgage constraints fuelled tenant demand.
House prices increased slightly last month, according to the bank Halifax, although the market still faces "significant headwinds" as household finances come under pressure.
Mortgage-holders with variable rate loans could face financial difficulty as lenders effectively hike costs, according to new research from consumer group Which?
Lenders have slashed interest on fixed rate mortgages, while the number of mortgages available to those with small deposits has also risen, new figures show.