According to an article in The Sunday Times, the number of borrowers taking out "marathon" mortgages lasting 35 years or more has reached its highest level since the 2011 recession. This is according to data from the Financial Conduct Authority. The figures, released after a Freedom of Information request, show 28,310 mortgages running for 35 years or more were approved in 2017, the most recent year for which the data is available — a 27% annual rise. Barclays last week extended the maximum term on its Family Springboard mortgage from 25 to 35 years, a further sign that first-time buyers are being encouraged to take out marathon deals. The FCA said 2.5% of mortgage approvals in 2017 were for marathon deals, compared with 1.6% in 2011. Spreading out repayments over a longer term is a way for squeezed borrowers to get a bigger mortgage, as it allows them to pass the strict affordability tests used by lenders. A borrower with a £250,00 repayment mortgage at 2.5% would pay £1,122 a month on a 25-year term; a 35-year deal would cost just £894 a month. However, this would rack up an extra £39,000 in mortgage interest over the 35 years. Using an experienced and independent mortgage adviser can help you navigate the mortgage minefield and to obtain the best deal for your circumstances. "Your One Stop Mortgage Shop!" https://local.google.com/place?id=15022266394329617825&use=posts&lpsid=2387238208292401651