The number of product illustrations downloaded by brokers has increased for the second week in a row, figures from Mortgage Brain reveal.

Over the past seven days the number of European standardised information sheets downloaded by mortgage advisers increased by 8.4 per cent, following an increase of 3.8 per cent the week before.

This came after six weeks of falling volumes as the coronavirus lockdown weighed heavily on activity.

ESIS downloads are now 12.5 per cent higher than the lowest point. 

But when compared to the average over the nine weeks to March 15, the number of ESIS produced remains down by 40.3 per cent.

There has been little change in the number of mortgage products available in the past week. 

There are currently 7,995 deals available on the market which is 45.5 per cent lower than pre-pandemic levels.

Mortgage Brain chief executive Mark Lofthouse says: “As time passes, the indications are that we have passed the low point and are now on the journey to the ‘new normal’. 

“The growth so far has been led by a sustained increase in ESIS for higher LTV residential mortgages as lenders increase their LTVs. 

“And, following the announcement by the government, growth may be expected to continue over the coming weeks as the home mover market restarts. 

“With so many borrowers in testing financial positions, whether or not they have been asked to take furlough leave or requested mortgage payment holidays, the advice and expertise offered by intermediaries will be more vital than ever in the months to come.”