Sellers hit the ground running in 2024

Eager home sellers got the year off to a good start before it had even begun, with over 10,000 properties put up for sale on Boxing Day 2023 – the highest number of new listings in one day since 2011. This momentum carried over into the new year as estate agents received a record number of requests for in-person home valuations in January.

Plan ahead with a property survey

When buying a house, a property survey can seem like one more cost among many. But getting the right survey is more than a burden - it can be crucial to ensuring you are paying a fair price.

House prices expected to rise in 2024

Property experts anticipate an upturn in UK house prices this year, with Pantheon Macroeconomics estimating a 5% increase.

After prospective and existing mortgage borrowers had a tough year in 2023, there looks to be good news on the horizon.

When will the Bank Rate go down in 2024?

Sellers accept discounts in late 2023

Here for you in 2024 – come what may

As research1 reveals that 45% of UK adults are losing sleep over money, we’re here to remind you of the value of professional advice.

Counting cost-of-living sheep

The squeeze on people’s finances caused by the cost-of-living crisis is understandably a key reason why people are struggling to get enough shut-eye. If you’re awake with worry, you are not the only one struggling.

High mortgages may mean more equity released

It’s no secret that higher interest rates have caused mortgage repayments to increase significantly.

Should you fix or track your mortgage?

If your mortgage deal is coming to an end, you may be deciding whether to fix or get a tracker. With mortgage rates starting to drop and uncertainty whether Bank Rate has peaked, there is a lot to consider…

Mortgages won’t be paid off by age 65.

Research* has found that 32% of mortgage holders do not think they will pay off their home loan by 65.

‘When will mortgage rates drop?’

Research has shown that online searches for the phrase ‘when will mortgage rates drop?’ surged from practically zero a year ago, to almost 7,000 during June and July this year, as worry clearly dominates for UK mortgage holders.

With mortgage rates at their highest since the 2008 financial crisis1, those looking to remortgage have more to think about than usual.

Many whose deals are coming up for renewal will have agreed their mortgage at a time when Bank Rate was just 0.1%. Now, it stands at 5.25%.

If your deal is coming to its end, what do you need to think about before signing on the dotted line?

The majority of UK lenders have signed a government charter to support borrowers.

The charter includes allowing borrowers to contact their lender for help without impacting their credit file and enabling borrowers whose payments are up to date to switch when their fixed term ends without another affordability check.

Considering choosing a ‘mammoth mortgage’?

A standard mortgage used to run for 25 years but there is a growing trend for so-called ‘mammoth’ loans spread over up to 40 years as first-time buyers and movers opt for lower monthly payments.

Can I get a Mortgage on an Annex?

I sometimes get enquiries from people looking to buy a house with an annex. But getting a mortgage on a property with an annex is not always straight forward.

When I am discussing a client's needs and requirements on a mortgage the discussion always brings up the question as to whether the client is happy to pay a lender fee. This fee is usually called a product fee, booking fee or lender's arrangement fee.

Lenders make their money from either interest charged on a mortgage, or interest charged and a fee. Many lenders sometimes offer deals either with or without a product fee.

When you commence a mortgage it most cases you have a 'deal' for an initial period. This is typically 2, 3 or 5 years although sometimes there are 1 or 10-year initial periods.

Moving home is an exciting and often stressful process. One crucial aspect that should not be overlooked is the importance of hiring a good solicitor. A skilled and experienced solicitor can make a significant difference in ensuring a smooth and successful home-buying or selling experience.

For many individuals, owning a home is a lifelong dream. However, purchasing a house often requires financial assistance in the form of a mortgage. When considering a mortgage, understanding the relationship between income and affordability becomes crucial. This article aims to shed light on this important aspect of the home-buying process.

The decision to choose between a shorter mortgage term and overpaying on a mortgage can have a significant impact on your financial future. Both options come with their own set of benefits, and understanding them can help you make an informed choice. Let's delve into the advantages of each approach.