Mortgage Guarantee Scheme launched
The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme aims to sustain availability of high LTV mortgages by incentivising lenders with government-backed guarantees. First-time buyers and home-movers across the UK can benefit, but professional advice is essential to help you choose the right deal.
Homing in on the mortgage challenges facing gig workers
For freelancers and contractors, securing a mortgage can be a real challenge due to multiple income streams. Many experience rejection because traditional lenders don’t understand gig economy finances. Expert advice can help you navigate this and strengthen your application.
Mortgage overpayments: small sums add up
Overpaying your mortgage, even by small amounts, could save you thousands and cut years off your loan. Thousands of homeowners could be tapping into these benefits, but a third of the people not making overpayments say they are being held back by a lack of understanding.
Stamp Duty changes – tune in
From 1 April 2025, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rates will revert to pre-September 2022 levels. First-time buyers will start paying SDLT on properties over £300,000, while all other buyers will pay on homes valued above £125,000. It’s important for buyers to factor in these changes when planning a property purchase.
Now here’s a golden anniversary worth celebrating!
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Sex Discrimination Act, which enabled women to secure mortgages independently. The number of primary female mortgage applicants has increased recently, however the gender pay gap still presents a home ownership barrier to women.
Record sales in 2024 and a surge expected in early 2025
In 2024, the UK housing market saw the highest level of sales since 2020, fuelled by reduced mortgage rates. A Q1 2025 surge is expected as Stamp Duty relief ends, but future activity depends on economic conditions and affordability trends.