Mortgage Guarantee Scheme launched

The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available across the UK  Lenders are insured against losses, supporting availability of high LTV mortgages  When borrowing at higher loan-to-value levels, it’s important to tread carefully  The government’s new Mortgage Guarantee Scheme became permanently available in July 2025.  The scheme, which was part of Labour’s election manifesto, aims […]

Autumn housing market outlook

Buyers gain negotiating power with more homes available and improving mortgage affordability  Sellers must adopt competitive pricing strategies as overpriced homes risk being overlooked  Modest price growth is expected, but steady activity could sustain momentum through autumn  As summer fades, the UK housing market moves into autumn with steady momentum. A high volume of homes […]

Homing in on the mortgage challenges facing gig workers

76% of UK gig workers face mortgage and loan application rejections despite good credit  Traditional credit systems don’t reflect gig workers’ multiple income sources  Expert guidance helps gig workers improve mortgage approval odds by validating diverse income  Variable income streams. Multiple employers. Seasonal side hustles. This is business as usual for gig economy workers, freelancers […]

Demand for second homes falls: what does it mean for local buyers and sellers? 

Council Tax hikes on second homes are triggering a surge in holiday property sales  In popular holiday destinations the number of properties being listed for sale has increased over 40%  This shift in property ownership has the potential to impact entire communities   From country cottages to seaside retreats, the second home market is facing challenges. […]

Mortgage overpayments: small sums add up

A third of homeowners are currently making overpayments on their mortgage  40% of homeowners don’t have the confidence to overpay their mortgage  Most lenders allow you to make overpayments of up to 10% of your mortgage balance each year without incurring any penalties  UK homeowners could collectively save £2.3bn on mortgage interest each year by […]

Home insurance premiums and claims increase

UK combined home insurance premiums rose 8.5% to an average of £231 according to recent data  Material shortages, labour expenses and inflation rates have driving up repair and rebuild costs  Make sure you don’t invalidate your insurance by leaving a spare key where it can be easily found  Extreme weather conditions. Rising construction costs. Higher […]

Summer housing market update – records, challenges and changing trends

Average asking prices hit record highs, but growth is slowing, as analysts suggest we’re in a buyers market  Moving costs have risen sharply across the UK due to changes in tax and associated fees  First-time buyers see improved affordability supported by flexible mortgage products  As summer begins, the housing and mortgage markets are experiencing a […]

UK cities see strong property market growth

The UK property market experienced a boost in 2024, with nearly 50% of homes listed receiving offers or selling  Cities like Sunderland, Leicester, and Liverpool saw notable increases in buyer activity, while London’s growth was subdued  Rising buyer confidence, stabilising mortgage rates and positive market conditions are expected to keep demand strong   The UK property […]