Research shows lengthy mortgage terms becoming standard

September 4, 2026 by Brendan O'Neill

Surveys and Statistics

The latest research has found that mortgages with very long terms of repayment are becoming standard among younger borrowers.

These loans have been given the name ‘marathon mortgages’ and typically have repayment periods of 30 to 40 years. This research found that two-thirds of people below the age of 30 are now opting for them. A total of 66% of them have chosen such loans, whereas for borrowers aged 30 to 39, it is 42%. Meanwhile, among older 40- to 49-year-old borrowers, just 6% have selected marathon mortgages.

The research was carried out by Sprive, a digital overpayment app. It indicates that younger borrowers are looking for ways to buy without facing unaffordable monthly mortgage payments.

However, what the research also shows is that they are paying higher rates on average. Those below the age of 30 face a 4.5% average rate, while for older borrowers it is 3.89%. The monthly mortgage repayments are more than £1,000 for all age ranges. The average paid by those under 30 is £1,008. For 40- to 49-year-olds, it is £1,138.

Jinesh Vohra is the chief executive of Sprive. Talking to Mortgage Strategy, he said marathon mortgages are the only option for some younger borrowers.

Then he added:

“Spreading repayments over 30 or even 40 years can make monthly payments affordable, but it also means paying interest for much longer and staying in debt well into later life.”

A mortgage advisor with the CeMAP qualification can help them decide if a loan of this kind is the right choice.