Mortgage affordability for UK homebuyers reached its most challenging point since 2008 last year, a leading industry body has revealed. Figures from UK Finance show that the average homebuyer across the country dedicated just over a fifth (21.3%) of their gross income to mortgage payments, marking the highest proportion recorded in 15 years. Certain regions experienced even greater strain, with North Norfolk in East Anglia identified as the least affordable local authority, requiring 25.7% of gross income for initial mortgage payments. The London borough of Hillingdon also saw new borrowers typically spending over a quarter of their gross income. Other areas facing significant pressure included London commuter belt towns such as Luton (24.9%), Slough (24.8%), and Spelthorne (24.8%). Conversely, the most accessible areas for homebuyers were found in Scotland, notably East Ayrshire and Inverclyde.…