2025

Buying a property that was previously a rental can be well worth considering. Here’s what you need to know. Firstly, why buy an ex-rental property? An ex-rental can be an attractive property proposition for many reasons. Let’s take a look at them. Chain free Buying an ex-rental can be a quick process. There’s no waiting for the seller to find somewhere else to buy. Competitively...

Making someone feel special on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost the earth. Here are ways to make an impression without breaking the bank. Show someone you care this Valentine’s Day without paying through the nose for flowers or a meal out. Here are some ideas for romantics on a tight budget and those who, like Janet Jackson, believe the best things in life are free. Cook up a...

How can you encourage tenants to settle long-term in your rental? A report compiled by consumer psychologists claims to have the answers. A report on the psychology of buying and renting includes some helpful advice for landlords. The Bricks to Belonging report* was compiled by the psychological and behavioural science firm IB. It examines what drives renters to become first-time buyers or to...

Congratulations – you’ve had an offer on your future new home accepted. But don’t rush out to buy curtains just yet. Here’s some important information about what happens next. First, the sale agreement is drawn up The seller’s estate agent will probably draw up a sale agreement – sometimes known as a memorandum of sale – and give a copy to all parties. This agreement will confirm...

As this month is Frugal February, now’s the time to take charge of your finances. Here are three tips to help you save and prosper. 1. If it’s a takeaway – walk away Steer clear of anything that’s a takeaway – whether it’s a coffee, sandwich or full meal. You can usually enjoy the same thing (maybe something even nicer) by making it yourself. February is a good month to fill your own...

Getting the rent right is a must for all landlords. Here we'll look at how to assess if the time is right to raise the rent on your investment property. So let's deal with the question: Should you raise your rent in 2025? We believe all landlords should review the rent they charge every year. And, if appropriate, increase it. (But there is a 'but' – see later.) Here's why. Your landlord...

Cryptocurrencies are said to be the currencies of the future. Here we’ll ask can you (and should you) buy or sell property using crypto? What is a cryptocurrency? Cryptocurrencies have been around for years. However, with President Trump pledging to make the US the ‘crypto capital of the planet’, we could hear a lot more about it in 2025. A cryptocurrency is a virtual, digital currency. It...

According to Zoopla, almost two-thirds of neurodiverse people give up on buying a home.* Here are three tips to make the process easier and less stressful. 1. Decide what you want and don’t give up If you’re selling, take all the time you need; don’t be rushed. Ask estate agents for valuations. Then decide the minimum price you can or will accept and stick to it. If you’re buying, make a...

Severe weather seems to be on the rise, and right now, we’re bang in the middle of winter storm season. Here are three tips to help protect your home and keep you and your family safe. 1. Stock up on the basics While no one wants to be a panic buyer (or a hoarder), keeping some basic supplies in at all times is a good idea. This way, you won’t need to go out shopping in severe weather. Keep a...

With rising labour and materials costs, is it now more cost-effective to move rather than renovate? There’s one question that millions of homeowners have asked themselves over the years: should I move or improve? While both options have pros and cons, the broad consensus has generally been that it’s cheaper to renovate than sell up and buy somewhere else. At least, that’s what people used...