The Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) has delivered a strong vote of confidence to the UK mortgage sector despite ongoing market turmoil.
In his first keynote speech, new IMLA chairman Jonathan Stinton called on the sector to embrace change and work collectively to help more people own their own home.
At his annual IMLA lunch in London, Stinton (pictured) acknowledged that recent geopolitical developments, including the conflict in the Middle Easthave created new uncertainty around the interest rate outlook.
Nevertheless, he emphasized the strength of the market and its adaptability, pointing to a strong market recovery in credit activity since the post-Truss turmoil as proof of that resilience.
Stinton noted that gross mortgage lending increased by 19% year-on-year to £288 billion by 2025, with home purchase loans up 18% and refinancings up 20%. Buy-to-let lending remained largely stable despite headwinds from higher taxes, additional stamp duty and the Renters’ Rights Act.
“These aren’t just numbers, they represent families moving, landlords adapting, buyers returning with confidence and advisors supporting them through uncertainty,” Stinton said.
“We have seen a rebalancing of demand, credit quality remains resilient and, crucially, the fundamentals of housing ownership in Britain remain as strong as ever.”
Looking ahead, Stinton described the industry as being at a pivotal moment shaped by rapid technological advancements and evolving regulations.
“These are busy times, and I believe we are now at a fascinating crossroads,” he said.
He highlighted the growing role of data, automation and digital integration in improving customer outcomes, while also cautioning that innovation must be accompanied by strong governance around issues such as cybersecurity and AI justice.
On regulation, he stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between consumer protection and market competitiveness.
“We must work together to ensure that regulation supports competitiveness, not conformity,” he said.
Stinton also emphasized the importance of collaboration across the market, especially between lenders and intermediaries.
“As we look to the rest of 2026 and beyond, I truly believe this is a moment of opportunity,” he said.
He concluded with a clear call to action for the industry:
“Let’s embrace technology with urgency and precision, not fear. Let’s invest not just in innovation, but in the safety and ethics that underpin it. Let’s strengthen and drive our relationships with regulators. And let’s lead, not follow, in shaping the way home ownership is financed in Britain.”