Personal finance advice

Don’t bank on these cosy low interest rates lasting

Published 26 June 2009

The banking sector has rarely been out of the news in the last nine months or so, hitting the headlines again this month with stark warnings of interest rate rises ahead.

B&Bs all set for a healthy season

Published 26 June 2009

There has been much press speculation as to whether the recession and exchange rate will lead to a bumper season for the domestic tourist industry.

The ups and downs of the pound

Published 19 June 2009

With the summer holidays fast approaching, thoughts turn to how many euro, dollars, etc one can get for a pound.

Look out that old account

Published 19 June 2009

A £5 note in a pair of trousers you haven’t worn for a while, or an heirloom that’s been in the loft for years – finding something you’d forgotten about is always a pleasant surprise.

Finding a deposit is just the start

Published 12 June 2009

With property prices having down slightly in recent months and with the decrease in interest rates – making some mortgages as cheap as they have ever been – there should be more properties within the reach of first-timers.

Tough choices when you may be at your weakest

Published 12 June 2009

For many people, one major uncertainty in older life is whether or not it will be necessary to enter a residential or nursing home.

Could your family manage alone?

Published 5 June 2009

It’s almost impossible to turn on the TV these days without seeing talking dogs, red telephones on wheels or annoying film directors telling us what great deals there are on insurance.

The Costa del credit card

Published 5 June 2009

With travellers cheques becoming less popular, more of us are opting for the convenience of using our plastic when we head off on our trips overseas.

Flipping homes: the rules

Published 29 May 2009

The subject of Capital Gains Tax on second homes has been a topical one of late. Many will have wondered how it is possible for MPs to have one main residence for expenses purposes and another for Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

Check out your savings umbrella

Published 29 May 2009

If you are thinking about saving for a rainy day there are a number of options available.

The smarter way to sell

Published 22 May 2009

Although there have been recent indications of an improving housing market and “green shoot” signs of recovery, we are still some way off a return to normal conditions.

Don’t leave a troublesome legacy

Published 22 May 2009

Are you old enough to vote, to get married and to drink alcohol – but not responsible enough to make a will?

Low interest rates, less costs, more sites – what better time to self-build?

Published 17 May 2009

When property speculation looks like a risky investment, self-build will always hold its own. But getting the finances right is the key to any successful building project.

Makeover time for your money

Published 17 May 2009

Spring brings with it a new financial and tax year. So while you may be thinking of giving the house a good clean, it could also a good time to get your finances in order with these tips.

Can’t move house? Use your loft

Published 8 May 2009

Given the current climate in the property market more and more people are looking at how they can improve on what they already have instead of moving to achieve more space.

A gift of a new deal!

Published 8 May 2009

Remortgaging is probably not one of things you will choose to do this weekend. In fact, it may not be one of things you choose to do at all.

That troubling mortgage dilemma

Published 6 May 2009

Interest rates are now at their lowest levels since records began. That may not be good news for savers, but for those looking for a mortgage some of the cheapest-ever deals are currently available on the market.

Can we still trust trusts?

Published 6 May 2009

The Budget is now becoming a distant memory although the economic issues raised will be with us for some time yet.

Tentative stirrings of new life on the housing front

Published 24 April 2009

The impact of the credit crunch and the resulting turmoil in the UK housing market has been widely reported over the last 18 months.

Easing the squeeze on first-timers

Published 24 April 2009

For the last eight months or so first-time buyers have effectively been squeezed out of the property market due to loan-to-value lending restrictions, lack of available credit in the markets and lenders being unwilling to lend on what they perceive as a high risk area.