The blog

Insights

329 straight-talking guides on UK property and personal finance.

Money & Finance

Flexible ISA

A flexible ISA is a savings account that offers tax free savings with greater flexibility around your ISA allowance contributions. Flexible ISAs offer the ability to withdraw your balance without reducing your overall allowance, so long as you pay it back within the Tax-year.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

Money & Finance

What Is An ISA Allowance?

Have you been left wondering, what is an ISA allowance? An ISA allowance is a tax-free savings and investment account that anyone over the age of 18 in the UK can open. Learn how to utilise yours in this insight.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

News

Are Banks Open Today?

Are banks open today? Use our live checker and interactive UK bank holiday calendar for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — plus opening hours, payment delays and 24/7 online banking.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

News

Building Society Roll Number: How It Works

Discover the importance of the building society roll number in managing your finances. Learn what building societies are, how roll numbers differ from account numbers, and where to find them.

22 Jul 2026 · 10 min read

News

Can a Bank Transfer Be Reversed?

Learn about reversing bank transfers: Timing matters. Swift action can help undo mistaken transfers, but it's essential to act promptly. Find out more.

22 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

News

Can Universal Credit Check My Bank Account?

Many people wonder whether the DWP, the body behind Universal Credit, can check your bank account. The DWP has legal powers to access financial information in certain circumstances. This outlines what they are.

22 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

News

Can You Pay Rent With A Credit Card?

Exploring paying rent with credit cards: Learn about possibilities, fees, credit score impact, and alternatives in challenging times. Make informed financial decisions.

22 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

Money & Finance

The Fact Find and What to Expect

Discover the importance of a fact find in financial planning. Learn how it helps understand client needs, provide personalised advice, assess risk, and ensure compliance.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Money & Finance

Gift Inter Vivos

If you have made gifts and pass away, it could lead to an unexpected tax bill. In this insight we cover how gift inter vivos can protect your loved ones from HMRC.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

News

How Does Revolut Work?

Revolut: revolutionising banking with digital services. How does Revolut work? Multi-currency, budgeting, and international transfers. A game-changer for global finance.

22 Jul 2026 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Interest Only Mortgages

Looking for information on interest-only mortgages? Read our insight to learn what an interest-only mortgage is, how it works, and the pros and cons of this type of mortgage.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

News

Is BACS The Same As a Bank Transfer?

BACS and bank transfers are terms often mixed up, but they're different. BACS is a UK system for electronic payments like direct debits, taking 3 days. Bank transfers include BACS, CHAPS, Faster Payments, with varying speeds.

22 Jul 2026 · 10 min read

News

Is Chase Bank Ethical?

Explore the question is Chase Bank ethical? While they excel in banking they're criticised for fossil fuel links. Learn about ethical banking, environmental impact, and the call for change.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Money & Finance

Is Revolut Safe?

Is Revolut safe? How your money is protected, its 2024 UK banking licence, FSCS status and the safeguarding rules that apply to customer funds.

22 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

News

Nationwide Roll Number: Know Your Building Society

Learn about Nationwide's transition from roll numbers to sort codes and account numbers, and how it benefits customers. Find out where to locate your sort code and account number and discover convenient ways to access your account balance and transactions.

22 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

Money & Finance

Pension Transfers

A Pension transfer allows you to combine many of your pensions into one. In this insight, we explain the benefits and considerations for transferring your pensions.

22 Jul 2026 · 9 min read

Mortgages

Second Home Stamp Duty

Buying an additional property? You may need to pay the second home stamp duty surcharge. This insight explains what you need to know.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Money & Finance

Self-Employed Pensions

There are many self-employed pensions out there. it can get confusing, especially when retirement seems ages away. However, no one wants to work forever. Fortunately, there are options available to help you get there sooner.

22 Jul 2026 · 7 min read

Money & Finance

state pension age moving the goalposts

The Government has previously stated that any change in the state pension age timeline will give individuals at least 10 years notice, despite the fact that this would undoubtedly have an impact on the retirement plans of millions of people.

22 Jul 2026 · 2 min read

News

What is a Ton of Money?

Explore the fascinating world of a ton of money and uncover its meaning, value, and symbolic significance.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Money & Finance

Transferring Pensions When Moving Abroad

Moving can be a tricky situation, transferring pensions when moving abroad can be even trickier. Having a clear idea of what to do with your finances, including your pensions can help to ease a lot of stress.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

News

Unknown Bank Giro Credit

Confused by an unknown bank giro credit? Unravel the mystery and take action with our guide. Verify legitimacy, protect your info, and seek bank assistance.

22 Jul 2026 · 12 min read

News

What Does Let Agreed Mean?

What does "let agreed" mean when renting? We explain the difference between let agreed and let, what it means for tenants and landlords, and whether you can still view or offer on the property.

22 Jul 2026 · 9 min read

Money & Finance

What Is A Term Deposit?

If you're reviewing your savings, you may be wondering, What is a Term Deposit? In this insight, we cover the detail you need to know, and how they work.

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

Mortgages

What is a Tracker Mortgage?

A tracker mortgage adjusts its interest rate in line with a market benchmark, such as the Bank of England base rate. But, that won't be right for everyone. We explain why...

22 Jul 2026 · 8 min read

Money & Finance

What is inflation?

Inflation refers to the general increase in prices of goods and services over a period of time. Find out how financial advice can help you tackle the effects of inflation.

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Money & Finance

Where to store a Will

In this insight, we will cover your options on where to store a Will, the risks you face and how best to protect yourself if anything does go wrong!

22 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

News

Why is Ryanair So Cheap?

Find out Why Ryanair are so cheap, including details on their business model and how they can operate to minimal costs compared to their competitors.

22 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

Mortgages

4 Little Known Truths About Equity Release

Discover 4 little known truths about equity release for homeowners aged 55+. Access funds without owing more than your home's value. Leave inheritance, not just for retirees. Move house with flexibility.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Amenity Land

All there is to know about Amenity Land, or Amenities Land, including the chances of financing the purchase, with planning permission, through a commercial land mortgage.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Buying a House: Step by Step Guide

Buying a house for the first time in modern times is an achievement. Understanding the house buying process can give you an upper hand. In this insight we cover all you need to know about buying a house.

31 May 2024 · 13 min read

Mortgages

Serviced accommodation mortgages

Serviced accommodation mortgages offer investors an opportunity to benefit from financial leverage and access to higher rental yields through the short term let market.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

Buying to Let as a First Time Buyer

If you're buying to let as a first time buyer, learn about the requirements and options you have available before you begin to invest in your first rental property.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Can I Get A Mortgage With My Parents?

Yes, you can get a mortgage with your parents by using a joint borrower sole proprietor mortgage. This mortgage combines your affordability power with your parents while you legally own the property. Other options include joint and guarantor mortgages.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Can You Get a Bridging Loan to Buy Land?

Can you get a bridging loan to buy land? Yes, you can! This type of financial solution, has become increasingly popular amongst property developers, investors, and speculators for land acquisition.

31 May 2024 · 9 min read

Mortgages

Can You Remortgage Early?

If you want to lower your mortgage payments or borrow more, you may consider remortgaging early, but can you remortgage early? Without the right advice, doing so could result in certain penalties...

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

Can You Remortgage if House Prices Drop?

Discover how to navigate remortgaging in a volatile housing market. Can you can remortgage if house prices drop? Yes, but it's not straightforward. Consider factors like your equity, affordability, costs, and seek professional advice.

31 May 2024 · 5 min read

Mortgages

What is a Chancel Repair Liability Search?

Discover the significance of a Chancel Repair Liability Search when buying a UK property. Understand the historical origins and responsibilities of Chancel Repair Liability. Learn how to conduct a search, the importance of awareness, and insurance options.

31 May 2024 · 5 min read

Mortgages

What is a Flood Risk Search?

Learn about the flood risk searche in property conveyancing. Understand their importance, types of assessments, data analysis, and implications for property value and insurance coverage.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Furnishing A Buy to Let

Furnishing a buy to let is not only a great way to add value to the property, but it also makes it more attractive to potential tenants.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

House Hacking in the UK

House hacking is commonly used in the US to describe a method used to try and self-finance a mortgage. But, is House hacking in the UK really a possibility?

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

How Do Swap Rates Affect Mortgages?

Discover how swap rates affect mortgage interest rates. Learn how these fluctuations impact your borrowing costs and make informed decisions for your home financing. Stay updated on market trends and consult with experts to secure the best mortgage terms.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

How Easy Is It To Switch Mortgages?

So, how easy is it to switch mortgages? Switching Mortgages be very easy, if you are organised and return the essential paperwork quickly, your mortgage adviser will take care of the rest.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

How Long Does a Mortgage Application Take?

How long does a mortgage application take? It's too long! Learn about the paperwork, and how to speed it up. Move into your new home quicker by understanding the mortgage timeline.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Is a 125 Year Lease Long Enough?

Is a 125 year lease long enough? it may not be, it gives you a limited time to you owning your lease. One way or another, you must take action, either selling or extending yours.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

Is Buy to Let Worth It?

Is buy-to-let worth it? In this insight, we will cover the pros, cons, and factors to consider. We weigh the costs using a real example including using interest only mortgages.

31 May 2024 · 12 min read

Mortgages

Is It Worth Buying Land In The UK?

Is It Worth Buying land In The UK? Explore the benefits, challenges, and factors to consider before making a decision. Get expert advice on land investment.

31 May 2024 · 9 min read

Buying & Selling

Items Missing After House Viewing

Theft during house viewings can occur, in this insight, we cover the steps you need to immediately take to get to the prevention and route cause of any items missing after house viewing.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

What is a Mining and Subsidence Search?

Understand the benefits of the mining and subsidence search. Learn about historical activities, hazards, and insurance considerations for properties in mining-affected areas.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

The Mortgage Advice process

Mortgage advice involves mortgage recommendations from a qualified and regulated mortgage adviser, find out what to expect from the mortgage advice process in this insight.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Mortgage With Less Than 3 Years In The UK

Obtaining a mortgage with less than 3 years in the UK is difficult, but not impossible. This insight explains all you need to know to get on the housing ladder as soon as possible.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Mortgages For Over 60s

Mortgages for over 60s are available, however you need to be aware of the rules. In this insight, we cover the requirements and options around lending into retirement.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Buying & Selling

Offers In Excess Of Meaning: Is It A Game?

Demystifying 'Offers in Excess Of' (OIEO) in the property market. Learn its implications, how to make offers, and its difference from 'Asking Price'. Understand OIEO for informed buying or selling decisions.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Buying & Selling

Offer Over Meaning

We explain the Offer Over meaning and implications for buyers and sellers. Understand this term to make informed decisions in the property market.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Peppercorn Ground Rent

Peppercorn Ground rent is an exceptionally low fee made to the freeholder for renting the land if you own the leasehold of your property.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Is Equity Release a Good Idea In Retirement?

With more people looking at alternatives to pensions, is releasing equity for retirement a viable option? How can equity release be used for retirement? Is Equity Release a Good Idea In Retirement?

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Remortgaging When House Value Has Increased

Discover key insights on remortgaging when house value has increased, including understanding equity, benefits of increased value, factors to consider, and the importance of expert advice.

31 May 2024 · 6 min read

Mortgages

SA302s for Mortgages

If you are self employed, you are required to provide SA302s for mortgages. In this insight we cover how lenders use them to assess if your application is acceptable or not.

31 May 2024 · 5 min read

Mortgages

Searches When Buying a House

Discover the intricacies of what are the searches when buying a house, and why they are an essential part of your property purchase journey.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Shared Ownership: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover shared ownership, the smart way to get on the property ladder with a smaller deposit or income. Learn how it works, eligibility requirements, staircasing, selling, and more. Start your journey to homeownership now!

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Should I Buy a 1 Bed or 2 Bed Flat?

Should I Buy a 1 Bed or 2 Bed Flat? If your budget stretches, it's a tough choice to choose an extra bedroom, it comes with extra costs. Is it worth it?

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Buying & Selling

Sold STC Meaning

Discover the sold STC meaning in the property market. Learn if you can still make offers on a property marked 'STC, implications for buyers and sellers, and how to navigate potential pitfalls in this insight.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

Specialist Mortgages

Explore the world of specialist mortgages for unique circumstances. Get tailored solutions, expert guidance, and access to a wide range of lenders. Find your perfect loan today.

31 May 2024 · 5 min read

Mortgages

Standard Variable Rate Mortgage

If you are on a standard variable rate you could be paying more than you need to be. We cover what to know and if there are any benefits to remaining on the SVR.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

What Influences Mortgage Rates?

Understand the factors that influence mortgage rates in the UK and how in turn that can help you to understand what is a good mortgage rate.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

The LIFT Scheme in Scotland: A Guide to Affordable Home Ownership Options

The LIFT scheme in Scotland provides affordable home ownership options for individuals and families who face financial barriers. This guide covers eligibility requirements, differences between Shared Equity and Shared Ownership, the NSSE scheme, the application process, finding eligible properties, fees and costs, and potential benefits and drawbacks.

31 May 2024 · 12 min read

Mortgages

What Is A Mortgage Promise?

Discover the meaning of a mortgage promise and how to obtain one. Learn about affordability assessments, income requirements, and how long it lasts.

31 May 2024 · 9 min read

Mortgages

What Is A Reasonable Service Charge?

Wondering what a reasonable service charge is? Learn the average, factors to consider, property type impact, and what to do if it's too much. Including Sunny Avenue data.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Insurance & Protection

What Is Assurance?

What is assurance? Just when you think you're coming to terms with the financial world, you stumble across this new term. In this insight, we explain what assurance is and when you need it.

31 May 2024 · 7 min read

Buying & Selling

What is Gazundering?

Learn about gazundering and discover effective strategies to safeguard your interests during negotiations. Don't fall victim to this tactic.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

What is the Simple Definition of Mortgage?

Discover the simple definition of a mortgage: a loan for buying a property. Learn about repayment, types, and finding the best deal for homeownership. Take the first step towards your dream home.

31 May 2024 · 8 min read

Buying & Selling

How To Get Your House Valued

Discover the step-by-step process of how to get your house valued, including selecting estate agents, discussing fees, scheduling the valuation, and reviewing the report.

27 Feb 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

What Is A Cheeky Offer On A House?

Learn, what is a cheeky offer on a house, plus what % is a cheeky offer on a house? When cheeky offers are appropriate, how to calculate your offer, and its implications in the home buying process.

19 Feb 2024 · 8 min read

Mortgages

Does The Seller Get a Copy Of The Survey?

The seller does not automatically get a copy of the survey. The property survey belongs to the buyer, and the seller will only know the survey results if the buyer decides to share them.

13 Feb 2024 · 7 min read

Mortgages

How to Put Pressure on Solicitors

Discover how to speed up the complex conveyancing process. Understand the role of solicitors and factors impacting speed. Communicate effectively, set deadlines, involve estate agents, and leverage mortgages.

17 Jul 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

Limited Company Buy to Lets

Deciding whether using Limited Company Buy to Lets is right for you is not a straightforward decision, in this insight, we cover your options and how best to proceed.

14 Jun 2023 · 8 min read

Mortgages

Bridge to Let Mortgage

A Bridge to Let Mortgage is a financing option for buyers that allows them to purchase a property before they switch to a buy to let mortgage. Learn more about bridge to let mortgages in this insight.

13 Jun 2023 · 8 min read

Mortgages

What Can A Bridging Loan Be Used For?

Perhaps someone has mentioned a bridging loan, and that has left you wondering, what can a bridging loan be used for? Is it the solution to your property chain?

13 Jun 2023 · 8 min read

Buying & Selling

How To Choose An Estate Agent

Knowing how to choose an estate agent is an essential step in the property selling process. You can make a decision that is right for you on an agent that best meets your needs.

12 Jun 2023 · 6 min read

Mortgages

Home Reversion Calculator

Learn about using a home reversion calculator and how to estimate equity release. But beware of drawbacks and consider a lifetime mortgage as an alternative. Speak to an equity release adviser for professional advice.

19 Apr 2023 · 6 min read

Insurance & Protection

Putting Life Insurance In Trust

Discover the benefits of putting your life insurance policy in trust, from avoiding inheritance tax to faster access to the claim payout. Learn how to set up a trust and select the right trustee and beneficiaries.

12 Apr 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

Equity Release Council

Learn about the Equity Release Council and how their rules protect consumers seeking equity release advice in the UK.

4 Apr 2023 · 6 min read

Mortgages

No Negative Equity Guarantee

Protect your estate with a No Negative Equity Guarantee. Learn how this safeguard ensures you'll never owe more than your property's value

27 Mar 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

The Ultimate Guide to the Mortgage Journey for First-Time Buyers with a Mortgage Adviser

Looking to buy your first home but feeling overwhelmed by the mortgage application process? Our guide to the mortgage client journey is here to help! Learn what to expect when working with a mortgage adviser, from finding the right loan to closing the deal. With our step-by-step guidance, you'll feel confident and informed every step of the way. Let's make your homeownership dreams a reality!

21 Feb 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

Can I change conveyancers

You need the right legal experts when buying or selling a home. What happens if you're not happy with your current conveyancer? Can you change them?

4 Feb 2023 · 6 min read

Mortgages

can i sell my house if i have equity release?

Equity release can be repaid if you are selling your house. You can repay the loan in full, or take it with you to your new home. Your Equity release lender will need to be made aware of your intentions and approve any move.

30 Jan 2023 · 8 min read

Money & Finance

Widows Pension

The newly branded UK Widows pension is available to help you transition after losing a loved one. As a widow, providing you are eligible, you will be able to claim this benefit.

20 Jan 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

5 Considerations for First Time Buyers

As a result of my experience working in Mortgages, I have put together 5 considerations that every First Time Buyer should be aware of before they start their mortgage journey!

12 Jan 2023 · 5 min read

Mortgages

What is conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal work that is required when buying or selling a property. In this insight we cover exactly what it is and how to appoint a conveyancer for your needs.

28 Dec 2022 · 6 min read