News

Don’t get caught out in the storm It is no secret that the UK’s weather can be unpredictable and, at times, unpleasant. And with climate change making extreme weather ever more extreme, there is plenty more wild weather in store. How can you protect your home? Storms ahead After three gales in February 2022, UK households made 170,000 insurance claims1, with insurance firms paying out £473m to support affected homes, highlighting the disruption that weather events can cause – ...

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the base rate at 5.25 per cent as many industry experts predicted. The MPC voted by a 6-3 majority to maintain the base rate at 5.25 per cent. Three members preferred to increase it by 0.25 percentage points to 5.5 per cent. This is now the third time in a row that the base rate has been frozen, with the latest hold decision widely predicted by industry analysts and experts who suggest it has reached its peak. If you need ...

Navigating a separation involves tough decisions, notably the choice to buy out a partner's share in shared assets like property or a business. This complex process, emotionally charged but providing closure and financial independence, requires careful consideration. Buyout Process Overview: When separating, couples may opt for one partner to buy out the other's share in a property or business, securing sole ownership. Financial Considerations: Cash Payment: Paying a lump sum from savings, ...

Are you over 50 and dreaming of owning your first home? It's feasible! With the right guidance, you can achieve homeownership. Advantages include financial stability from a solid career, potentially higher income, and savings. Age may lead to a better credit history, improving mortgage approval chances.Considerations for older first-time buyers include aligning mortgage repayments with retirement plans and opting for a manageable mortgage term. The Mortgage Hub, your trusted local expert, specia...

The local property market - November Despite the first five days of the month being quiet, it went on to be a very good month . Activity in and around the area remained very healthy. We received instructions to market 106 properties, which was slightly higher than in October; we registered 658 new potential buyers and received 272 new offers, again more than in October. Mortgage rates continued to reduce, with Barclays launching a two-year fixed rate of 4.75%, accompanied by a low arra...