Home buyers are increasingly opting for mortgages with a 30-year fixed interest rate, according to new figures published by mortgage group De Hypotheker.

In the first three months of this year, 33% more 30-year mortgages were signed, due mainly to the very low interest rates, the company said.

Nevertheless, a 30-year mortgage is not always the best deal, De Hypotheker’s director Wytzejan de Jong told broadcaster NOS. ‘Not every provider allows you to move your current interest rate to a new place if you move home,’ he said. ‘This can mean you are better off with a shorter fixed interest period.’

10-year mortgages are also increasing in popularity, while the number of people opting for a five-year fixed rate has halved. Around half of De Hypotheker’s clients opt for a 20-year fixed rate period.

The average interest rate on a 10-year fixed mortgage is currently around 2% while a 30-year mortgage is around 3%.