Blogs
Helping Your Child Onto the Property Ladder
In today’s challenging housing market, getting onto the property ladder can be a daunting task for many young people. Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children to achieve this significant milestone. From early savings to more direct financial...
House Prices Rise at Fastest Pace Since End of 2022
What Homebuyers and Investors Need to Know Recent data from Nationwide has unveiled a significant shift in the housing market. House prices have risen by 2.1% over the year in July, marking the fastest pace of growth since December 2022. [1] The increase came in a...
Which Mortgage Rate Type Is Most Suitable for You?
Fixed, Tracker or Variable Rate? When it comes to choosing a mortgage, understanding the differences between fixed, tracker, and variable rate options is crucial. Making an informed decision about which type of interest rate meets your needs can save you money and...
Buy to Let Mortgage – Northern Ireland
Buy to Let Mortgage A Buy to Let Mortgage is specifically designed to allow the purchaser of a mortgage to let out or rent the property they have purchased to tenants. As with any form of borrowing there are risks you must be aware of before making major decisions. We...
The Importance of a Good Solicitor When Buying a Property
When buying a property, securing the services of a skilled solicitor is paramount. This professional guides you through the intricate legal process of property transactions, ensuring that everything is executed smoothly and efficiently. A good solicitor handles all...
The Right Time to Take Out a Life Insurance Policy
It’s never too early Life insurance is an important consideration for ensuring your loved ones are financially secure in the event of your untimely death. The question of when to take out a life insurance policy is often debated, but the consensus among experts is...
Tips for Saving a Deposit for First Time Buyers
Saving for a deposit is a big step on your journey to buying a home. If you're a first-time buyer in the UK, knowing how to save effectively is key in today’s housing market. With average deposits reaching around £61,000, a smart saving plan is crucial. Here are some...
Understanding Mortgage Pre-Approval
A Step-by-Step Guide One of the most important steps in the journey of buying a house is securing mortgage pre-approval. This step not only signals to sellers your financial readiness to buy a home, but also provides clarity on your expected monthly payments and the...
Renting vs Home Ownership
The debate between renting and home ownership has long been a prevalent topic in the UK, where a variety of economic factors and personal circumstances shape housing decisions. In recent years, the UK housing market has experienced considerable fluctuations, impacting...
Buying A Property at Auction
All you need to know Purchasing a property at auction can be a rewarding and exciting experience, offering opportunities to acquire property at potentially lower prices. However, it requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of the process. Here’s an...
Navigating Mortgages for Individuals with Diverse Income Sources
Strategies for Success When we think of homeowners, we often envision individuals with stable, traditional employment and a consistent income. But the reality of the modern workforce is far more dynamic. Freelancers, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs are...
Smart Home Upgrades for your Home
Enhancing Comfort, Convenience, and Energy Efficiency We’re currently witnessing technology integrate into our daily lives at a faster pace than ever, and our homes are no exception. Smart home upgrades are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK, offering a living space...
The Re-Mortgage Checklist
Key Considerations for Making Informed Decisions Owning a home is a significant financial commitment, and your mortgage plays a crucial role in managing that cost. Re-mortgaging your property involves taking out a new loan to replace your existing mortgage. This can...
Stress-Free Moving Tips
Making Your Transition to a New Home Seamless and Enjoyable Moving house can come with a whirlwind of emotions. The thrill of a fresh start and a new chapter intertwines with the undeniable anxiety of logistics and upheaval. If you’ve got a big home move coming up,...
Building Wealth Through Property
Becoming a Landlord and Starting Your Property Portfolio Achieving financial security is a dream for most, and property investment has demonstrably served as a springboard for countless individuals seeking to build long-term wealth. The tradition of property ownership...
A Springboard for First-Time Buyers
Lifetime ISA Dreaming of taking those first steps onto the property ladder? A huge milestone for many, but also a daunting challenge. A recent Zoopla study revealed a hurdle many first-time buyers face when they need to secure a £34,500 deposit for a £240,000 house...
Inheriting a House in the UK
What you need to know Inheriting a house in the UK is a situation many may find due to the nation's strong culture of property passing through generations. Predictions indicate that the total value of inheritances is expected to see a substantial increase,...
Mastering Your Home Extension Project
From Planning to Perfection Embarking on a home extension is an exciting journey towards creating your dream living space, offering an alternative to the daunting process of moving. According to TSB, two in five homeowners would actually rather build an...
First Impressions Count
First Impressions Count How to Enhance House Viewings For a Fast Sale Selling your home is a significant milestone, and viewings play a crucial role in securing a successful sale. Creating a welcoming, attractive, and memorable environment for potential buyers can...
Spring Into Home Maintenance
As the chill of winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge across the UK, homeowners are presented with the perfect opportunity to assess and address the needs of their homes. Seasonal maintenance is a crucial aspect of home ownership, ensuring that homes not...
What Mortgage Do You Need for an Airbnb?
To set the tone for the growing potential of Airbnb as an investment and hosting opportunity, consider the staggering statistics that underscore its global reach and popularity. The platform boasts over 5 million hosts worldwide, with more than 7.7 million active...
Secured & Assured: Insurance Auto-Renewals and Loyalty
Secured & Assured: Insurance Auto-Renewals and Loyalty Insurance policies are important financial instruments designed to provide a safety net during unforeseen life events. Understanding insurance auto-renewal, the necessity of reviewing your cover, and the...
Hard vs Soft Credit Checks
How Do Credit Checks And Credit Health Affect Mortgage Applications? Have you ever wondered how your past financial decisions could impact your dreams of owning a home? In the evolving world of UK mortgage applications, understanding the difference between hard...
Mortgage Anxiety Among Generation X
Navigating Retirement with a Mortgage In an era of financial uncertainty, a significant concern is surfacing among Generation X (individuals born between 1965-1980): the fear of carrying a mortgage into retirement. Recent research by Just Group uncovers that...
The Rise of Green Mortgages in the UK
57% of Major UK Lenders Are Now Onboard, Signalling a Shift in Sustainable Home Financing [1]. Picture this - a housing market that not only serves our needs, but also sustains our planet. This is no longer a distant dream, but an emerging reality in the UK,...
Your Mortgage Matchmaker
In today's fast-paced world, searching for the perfect mortgage can feel like navigating a dating app. With a wide variety of rates, terms and fine print, it is easy to get lost in the overwhelming sea of options. Enter a mortgage adviser: not just a financial expert,...
Bridging the Property Financing Gap
The Rising Significance of Bridging Loans in the UK Property Market. The UK property market is experiencing a shift with the rise of bridging loans. As a versatile financial solution, bridging loans are becoming increasingly popular vehicles for swift and...
Navigating Stamp Duty
Navigating Stamp Duty In recent years, the housing market in the UK has experienced a wave of changes, with one of the most notable being alterations in stamp duty regulations. Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a crucial consideration for homebuyers, as it can...
The Benefits of Falling Mortgage Rates for UK Borrowers
The Benefits of Falling Mortgage Rates for UK Borrowers The UK mortgage market has witnessed significant shifts over the past few years, with rising interest rates causing concern for many borrowers. The Bank of England (BOE), responsible for setting the official bank...
Sparkling Transitions from Renting to Owning Your Home
Sparkling Transitions From Renting to Owning Your Home Private rental prices paid by tenants in the UK rose by 5.7% in the 12 months to September 2023. [1] The recent upswing in rental prices in the UK has become a notable concern, potentially steering individuals...
Preparing Your Home for a Smooth Sale
Preparing Your Home for a Smooth Sale Did you know that it takes just 38 seconds for someone to form an opinion of your home? [1] In the ever-dynamic UK property market, selling your home can be as exciting as it is daunting. A smooth sale process depends not...
The Benefits of Re-Mortgaging with a Mortgage Broker: Unlocking Financial Opportunities with Complete Mortgage Solutions NI
Introduction For homeowners in Northern Ireland, re-mortgaging presents an opportunity to explore new financial horizons. As the mortgage market evolves, finding the most suitable re-mortgaging option can be a challenging task. That's where a mortgage broker comes in....
Understanding EPC Ratings and Their Impact on Mortgage Interest Rates in Northern Ireland
Introduction As a homeowner in Northern Ireland, you might have come across the term EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). An EPC is a standardized rating that assesses the energy efficiency of your home. This document plays a vital role in helping homeowners...
The Importance of Budgeting: Why Spreading Your Planning Over 12 Months Yields Financial Success
Introduction As a responsible mortgage broker based in Northern Ireland, we understand that financial stability is a key aspect of successful homeownership. One of the most effective tools for achieving this stability is budgeting. Creating and following a budget...
Why It’s Crucial to Consider Re-Mortgaging Six Months Before Your Current Fixed Rate Ends
Introduction As a homeowner in Northern Ireland, one of the most important financial decisions you'll make is selecting the right mortgage. Many people opt for fixed-rate mortgages for the stability and predictability they offer. However, as your fixed-rate term nears...
The Mortgage Charter: A Lifeline for Struggling Homeowners in Northern Ireland
Introduction The Mortgage Charter, implemented by the government of Northern Ireland, is a crucial initiative aimed at providing relief to homeowners facing financial hardship and struggling to pay their mortgages. This comprehensive framework sets out guidelines for...
Why It’s Crucial to Consider Re-Mortgaging Six Months Before Your Current Fixed Rate Ends
Introduction As a homeowner in Northern Ireland, one of the most important financial decisions you'll make is selecting the right mortgage. Many people opt for fixed-rate mortgages for the stability and predictability they offer. However, as your fixed-rate term nears...
Boosting Your Property’s EPC Rating: Energy Efficiency Tips for Homeowners in Northern Ireland
Introduction As a homeowner in Northern Ireland, improving your property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating can have numerous benefits. A higher EPC rating not only enhances the energy efficiency of your home but also increases its value and potentially...