Adviser mortgage searches up 3.6% year-on-year

Adviser mortgage search activity remained robust in February despite a slight cooling following the strong start to the year, according to the latest data from Twenty7tec.

Data taken directly from its INSIGHT Pro platform shows total mortgage searches reached 1,814,583 in February 2026. This represents a 4.6% decrease compared with January, following the seasonal surge in activity seen at the start of the year. However, search volumes were still 3.6% higher than February 2025.

Remortgaging continues to play a central role in adviser activity. Residential remortgage searches reached 688,053 in February. While this was down 9% compared with January, it was 19% higher than the same month last year, suggesting many borrowers remain focused on reviewing their existing deals.

Residential purchase activity softened slightly after January’s uplift. Residential purchase searches totalled 670,259, down 1% month on month and 5% lower than February 2025. First-time buyer searches reached 164,803, representing a 2% decrease compared with January and a 12% drop year-on-year.

In the buy-to-let market, total searches reached 291,468, down 4% from January but still 2% higher than February 2025. Buy-to-let remortgage searches increased 8% year on year, indicating landlords continue to reassess borrowing arrangements even as purchase activity slows.

The report also highlights the continued complexity advisers face when placing cases, with many of the most frequently searched lending criteria relating to borrower circumstances, residency requirements and credit history.

Nathan Reilly, chief customer officer at Twenty7tec, said: “February’s figures suggest the market is settling into a more typical rhythm following the strong rebound in adviser activity at the start of the year. While search volumes have moderated slightly month on month, the fact activity remains higher than this time last year highlights the continued resilience of adviser demand.

“Remortgaging continues to represent a significant share of adviser searches, reinforcing the focus from borrowers reviewing existing deals and seeking certainty in a changing rate environment.”