The latest top financial deals

Savings

Julian Hodge Bank has reviewed its two-year fixed-rate ISA, which now pays 1.9% annually. Savers can invest from £5,000. No additions are permitted but early access to funds is allowed, subject to a penalty and closure of the account. Transfers in from cash and stocks & shares Isas are welcome. This deal is for savers aged 16 and over and is operated by post only.

It’s good because: This deal is one of the best on the market and is a great option for any saver who has yet to utilise this year’s tax-free allowance.

 

Harrods Bank has launched an 18-month fixed-rate bond paying 1.95% a year. Savers can invest between £20,000 and £2.5m. Additions and early access are not permitted. This deal is for savers aged 18 and over and can be operated in branch, by post and by telephone.

It’s good because: This sits just shy of the market leader and is a good choice for those looking to have a guaranteed rate over the shorter term.

 

Mortgages

West Bromwich Building Society has reduced its two-year fixed rate mortgage, which is now priced at 3.19% until the end of February 2017. This deal is available for customers who borrow between £25,001 and £500,000 at 90% loan-to-value (LTV). There is a fee of £499, which can be added to the advance. There is a free valuation worth up to £525, and the flexibility to make overpayments.

It’s good because: Borrowers with deposits of 10% will be delighted by this offer from the West Brom. The free valuation will help towards lowering the upfront costs.

 

Skipton Building Society has repriced its two-year discounted variable rate, which now has a rate of 1.89% (a discount of 3.1%). This deal is for applicants who successfully borrow at 75% LTV. There is no fee, and remortgage customers enjoy incentives of a free valuation and free legal fees. This deal allows overpayments up to a maximum of 10% of the outstanding balance, and payment holidays.

It’s good because: This sits comfortably in the top five within its sector. With no fee and a great incentive package, this is likely to prove to be a cost-effective choice for many.

 

Loans

M&S Bank has reduced its personal loan rates. Customers who borrow between £7,500 and £15,000 over five years can now apply for a rate 3.6% APR loan. Borrowers must be 18 or over to apply.

It’s good because: At this time of year, when debt is likely to be on many people’s minds, it is fantastic to see a market-leading loan rate that lowers costs. This is a great deal for customers looking to consolidate their borrowings.