Brits over-estimate value of homes by more than £35,000

When it comes to valuing their homes, British homeowners are in danger of over-estimating prices by as much as £35,000 or more, according to research from Abbey Mortgages.

The research shows that on average homeowners estimate their home to be worth £190,175. This is an over-estimate of £37,280 when compared to official Land Registry house price figures, which puts today's average house price at £152,895.

Despite falling house prices, homeowners across all regions of the country estimate their homes to be worth more than industry figures would suggest. Those living in the East and the South East of the country are the most optimistic about the value of their properties, with these homeowners estimating their homes to be worth a massive £53,422 above Land Registry estimates.

Property prices have been hit badly by the credit crunch and while official industry stats show the average property value has dropped by over £30,000 since January 2008, Abbey Mortgages research suggests that homeowners across the country remain optimistic and resolute about the value of their home.

Nici Audhlam-Gardiner, Abbey Director of Mortgages, commented: "Homeowners looking to remortgage or sell their homes in the near future need to make sure that the value of their home is accurate and has been valued by professionals to avoid problems or disappointment further down the line. As house prices continue to fall, the longer a customer delays on SVR, the more they risk that the good rates are out of reach to them due to fall in value of their home and the increase in their loan-to-value."

This week, Abbey is launching two new mortgages at 85 per cent LTV. A first time buyer only 4-year fix 5.74 per cent with a £495 fee with the homebuyer solution (free valuation and £250 cashback on completion) and a 5-year fix at 5.79 per cent with a £995 fee with the remortgage solution (free legals and free valuation). Abbey also has a range of mortgages offering their lowest fixed rates in 10 years. The range of competitive 75 per cent LTV deals is available through the branch or over the telephone for a limited time only. The rates include a 3-year fix at 4.09 per cent, a 7-year fix at 4.99 per cent and a 15-year fix at 5.38 per cent all with a £995 fee and a maximum loan size of £250,000. There is also a special offer of 20 per cent off home insurance when you take an Abbey Mortgage.

For more information, visit abbey.com