APRC explained

Learn what APRC is, how it’s calculated and what it means for your mortgage.

What is APRC?

APRC stands for Annual Percentage Rate of Charge. It can help you understand the total cost of a mortgage over its lifetime. It includes fees and interest rates that change.

It can help you compare mortgage deals with more confidence. In general, the higher the APRC, the higher the cost of your mortgage over its full term.

APRC explained

Learn what APRC is, how it’s calculated and what it means for your mortgage.

 

What is APRC?

APRC stands for Annual Percentage Rate of Charge. It can help you understand the total cost of a mortgage over its lifetime. It includes fees and interest rates that change.

It can help you compare mortgage deals with more confidence. In general, the higher the APRC, the higher the cost of your mortgage over its full term.

How is APRC calculated?

The APRC is calculated using a formula that considers all your payments across the mortgage term, including any interest and fees. These are then averaged into a single yearly percentage, helping you understand the full cost of borrowing.

Here's what you include when calculating the APRC:

  • Interest Rate. The rate charged on your mortgage or loan each year.
  • Fees. Any upfront costs, such as valuation fees, arrangement fees, legal fees, and broker fees.
  • Introductory period. If there’s a temporary lower rate, the lender considers how long it lasts and what rate it will revert to when the standard variable rate (SVR) takes effect.
  • Loan term. The full length of your mortgage or loan.

APRC doesn’t account for things like overpayments, payment holidays or early repayment charges.

Benefits of APRC when comparing mortgages

Comparing mortgages can be hard, but the APRC could give you a clearer picture of what you’ll pay. It’s designed to help you compare mortgage options simply, clearly, and with greater peace of mind.

1. Makes lender comparisons easier

Every lender has to work out APRC in the same way, so you can easily compare the APRC on one deal with another. This can save you time when comparing deals across different lenders and mortgage products.

2. Accounts for rate changes

Many mortgages start with a lower introductory rate. After a while, this rate changes to the standard variable rate (SVR). The APRC considers both rates and estimates the total cost over the entire mortgage period. This reduces the chances of surprises later on and offers a clearer picture of what the mortgage might cost in the end.

3. Helps spot long-term costs

Introductory offers can sometimes be unclear, so a deal may become more expensive over time with rising variable rates or extra fees. The APRC rolls all costs into one figure, helping you judge if a deal that seems good today will still be worthwhile in the long term.

4. Is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) introduced the APRC to help regulate mortgage costs and make them more transparent. Lenders must present it in a clear, consistent format so that you can easily compare products.

5. Can improve borrowing confidence

A mortgage is often the largest financial commitment for many people. The APRC can help you feel more confident about borrowing by showing you the true cost of borrowing.

All costs are shown as a single percentage, making it easier to plan, budget, and decide what’s affordable over the life of your mortgage term.

6. Highlights the effect of fees

A mortgage with a low interest rate might not be the cheapest option once you factor in fees and charges. The APRC accounts for these, helping you understand the full cost. This can help you identify which deal offers the best overall value, not just the best rate.

APRC vs interest rate

The interest rate is the interest you’ll be charged on your mortgage, not including any extra fees. The APRC goes a step further by including the interest rate plus any upfront or continuous charges. This can give you a clearer view of the total cost.

APRC vs APR

APRC work outs the full cost of your mortgage over its lifetime, including interest and fees. APR only captures the yearly cost, which could make the APRC more useful for long-term mortgage comparisons. 

Looking to compare our mortgage rates?

Check the APRC on our mortgage rates to weigh up the full cost and compare deals confidently.

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