Home repossession figures Lowest since 2010
9 August 2012

The number of household repossessions for the second quarter was at the lowest since the final quarter of 2010, according to new figures.

There were 9,600 repossessions in 2012 first quarter, and the reduction in the three months to June to 8,500 was in line with a seasonal pattern that has occurred for the last three years.

The data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) also shows that the number of loans with arrears of 2.5 per cent or more of the outstanding balance stood at 157,400 at the end of June - fractionally lower than the total of 157,800 at the end of the first quarter.

The figures show the number of repossessions totalled 18,100 in the first six months of 2012, implying that possessions so far are on a lower trajectory than the CML's forecast of 45,000 for the year as a whole.

CML director general, Paul Smee said: "The figures show that lenders, borrowers and debt advisers are working together to get through the current period of economic difficulty and keep mortgage possessions in check.

"Generally, when borrowers prioritise their mortgage commitments, lenders can provide help appropriate to their individual circumstances.

"But success in managing temporary payment problems depends on everyone working together and it is essential for anyone worried about their mortgage to talk to their lender as soon as possible."

Full details can be found on the Council of Mortgage Lenders site