Posts by liane

When the UK experiences a heatwave, most of the attention understandably turns to health, hydration and staying cool. That should always come first. Hot weather can affect everyone, particularly older people, young children, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions1. However, prolonged periods of hot, dry weather can also create risks around the home.…

Buying or selling a home should be one of life’s exciting milestones. Too often, however, it becomes one of the most stressful. A buyer finds a property, agrees a price, starts the mortgage process, pays for legal work and waits for everything to move forward. A seller accepts an offer, begins making plans and may…

The rules around getting a mortgage could change if new proposals from the Financial Conduct Authority are approved1. The Financial Conduct Authority, also known as the FCA, regulates the UK mortgage market and sets rules that lenders must follow. Its latest Mortgage Rule Review is looking at whether parts of the current system could be…

There have been encouraging signs in the mortgage market recently, with a number of lenders reducing selected mortgage rates. This does not mean that every mortgage rate has fallen, or that every borrower will automatically be able to access a lower rate. Mortgage pricing changes regularly and the rate available to you will depend on…

Britain’s record-breaking May heatwave has sent families into gardens, parks and beaches, with barbecues lit, patio doors left open and garden furniture brought out for the summer1. But while the sunshine has been welcomed by many, homeowners are being urged to check whether their home insurance is ready for the risks that can come with…

If your mortgage deal ends later this year, or in early January 2027, now could be the time to start looking at your options. For many homeowners, the mortgage is the largest monthly bill they pay. Yet it is also one of the financial products most likely to be left until the last minute. That…

With the summer holiday season approaching, many households will already be counting down to flights, hotels, package holidays and long-awaited breaks abroad. But this year, travellers have another reason to check the small print before they pack. The Department for Transport has set out plans aimed at reducing the risk of last-minute flight cancellations during…

If you are thinking about selling your home this summer, the market may look encouraging at first glance. Asking prices have been holding up, homes are still selling, and many buyers remain active. But look a little closer and the picture becomes more complicated. Rightmove’s May 2026 House Price Index reported that the average price…

Your mortgage is likely to be one of your biggest financial commitments, but it is easy to forget that your wider protection needs can change over time. If you arranged life cover, critical illness cover or income protection when you first took out your mortgage, the cover may have been suitable for your circumstances at…

As spring arrives, many people start thinking about making changes to their home. Longer days and better weather can make it a natural time to plan improvements, whether that means building an extension, converting a loft, replacing a kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, improving energy efficiency or making the home more suitable for family life. Home…