by Brian Downton | J, May, 2018 | blog, mortgages
November 2017 saw the Bank of England raise interest rates for the first time in a decade, from 0.25 per cent to 0.5 per cent, causing a number of lenders to increase their mortgage rates. The Bank of England has indicated there could be further rate rises, so if...
by Brian Downton | J, May, 2018 | blog, mortgages
If you think property auctions are only for professional property developers or investors think again. They can be a great place to pick up a family home. In 2017, some £3,190 million worth of UK residential property was sold at auction, accounting for 21,024...
by Brian Downton | J, May, 2018 | blog, mortgages
Major changes in taxation for owners of buy to let properties are being phased in over the four years starting April 2017. If you own buy to let properties, it’s important to take a look at how these gradual changes may affect you over the next few years in order to...
by Brian Downton | J, May, 2018 | blog, mortgages
When buying a property, you can do so either on a leasehold or freehold basis and there are important differences to be aware of before you sign on the dotted line. With a leasehold property you own the property and its land for a fixed period, depending on the...
by Brian Downton | J, Apr, 2018 | blog, mortgages
If you let out a residential property but haven’t declared the rental income, you might be interested in a new campaign from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). HMRC estimates landlords fail to pay £550m every year and their ‘Let Property Campaign’ aims to reclaim the...
by Brian Downton | J, Mar, 2018 | blog, mortgages
In 2007 Bulgaria and Romania joined the European Union, Lewis Hamilton got his first drive in Formula 1 partnering with Fernando Alonso at McLaren, the final book in the Harry Potter series was published and England played their first match at the new Wembley Stadium....
by Brian Downton | J, Jan, 2018 | blog, mortgages
Conveyancing is an important part of the home buying process, and it’s important to note it’s required when both buying and selling a property. So, what should you consider when choosing a property solicitor to carry out your conveyancing? It’s important to use a...
by Brian Downton | J, Jan, 2018 | blog, mortgages
If you think an increase in your mortgage repayments could have a negative impact on your lifestyle or financial wellbeing, you may want to consider fixing your mortgage. With a fixed rate mortgage, your payments are set at a certain level for an agreed period,...