Primis Mortgage Network brokers in Northern Ireland have entered 2026 with a clear growth agenda and 82% expecting to write more mortgage business this year than last.
In a survey conducted at a Primis Kick Off event in Northern Ireland, brokers also signaled particularly strong momentum in protection with 90% anticipating that they will arrange more protection business in 2026.
More than two-thirds (68%) of those surveyed described themselves as either ‘optimistic’ or ‘somewhat optimistic’ about the year ahead.
However, respondents were clear about the hurdles they expect to face. Customer affordability pressures were cited as the single biggest challenge for 43%, ahead of economic uncertainty or unemployment (23%) and the burden of regulation and compliance (16%).
A further 13% identified lower transaction volumes as their main concern, while 5% pointed to the risk of interest rates remaining higher for longer.
When asked where they see the greatest sales opportunity this year, brokers highlighted a balanced mix across both mortgage and protection business.
Remortgage activity was most frequently cited (by 29%), closely followed by first-time buyer mortgages (24%) and income protection (19%). Critical illness cover was identified by 12% of respondents, while life insurance and general insurance were each selected by 5%.
Expectations around interest rates also underpin brokers’ outlook. The majority (86%) expect the Bank of England base rate to be lower by the end of 2026, with 73% predicting a reduction of between 25 and 50 basis points.
Despite ongoing industry debate around the potential return of execution-only sales, sentiment among Northern Ireland brokers was broadly relaxed. Nearly three-quarters (74%) said they are not worried at all, while 21% said they are somewhat concerned about non-advised business.
Neil Hoare, Sales Director at LSL Financial Services, said: “What stands out among Primis brokers in Northern Ireland is just how central protection is to growth plans this year. With nine in 10 expecting to write more protection this year, customer resilience and long-term financial security will be a major focus.
“Affordability pressures are the biggest concern for customers in Northern Ireland. Nonetheless, opportunities present themselves to brokers in the region with remortgaging, first-time buyers and, most notably, protection all identified by respondents as areas of growth.
“It is our job at Primis to help convert opportunity into sustainable growth by providing the tools and practical regulatory support they need to navigate affordability challenges. In doing so, brokers are best placed to deliver strong customer outcomes and make the most of the prospects 2026 presents.”
