Older Borrower? What Are Your Options?
There is no age maximum for applying for a mortgage, however, many lenders have their own limits for the age you can take a mortgage and maximum age of when the mortgage term ends. Find out more about how mortgages and repayments might differ if you are a
Updated by on Tue, April 6, 2021
Life Cover Costs - It Pays To Be Young
With higher house prices and an uncertain job market, the younger generation are getting onto the property ladder and starting a family considerable later than the older generations. Read more today!
Updated by on Thu, April 1, 2021
Home Contents Value Rises At Christmas
At Christmas, it is estimated that the average UK shopper spends around £346. More expensive gifts will quickly affect the value of your home belongings, so its important to ensure you have enough cover in place.
Updated by on Mon, March 29, 2021
Get Paid To Go Green as Grant Extended
The Green Grant Scheme has been extended until next year but what does this entail? Find out how much you could receive if you decide to improve your home's energy efficiency.
Updated by on Thu, March 25, 2021
Forming Money Habits - Talk To Your Kids
The pandemic has had a huge financial impact on many families, with it becoming a worry for children. We usually try to hide our finance concerns from our children but it is suggested that discussing the topic may have a positive outcome.
Updated by on Tue, March 23, 2021
Don't Cancel Your Insurance Policies
Recent statistics have shown that many people have chosen to cancel or cut back on their insurance plans due to the harsh impact the pandemic has had on our finances. But is this the right decision?
Updated by on Thu, March 18, 2021
Return of High LTV Mortgages Sparks Hope
During the pandemic, the uncertainty of the economy and the hesitation from mortgage lenders, made it more challenging to get onto the property ladder. However, LTV mortgages are making a return and could be the helping hand first time buyers need.
Updated by on Sun, March 14, 2021
Protect Your Income as well as Your Life
Now has never been more of a perfect example of why it is so important to consider taking out income insurance. In this blog learn how an income protection plan could benefit you and your loved ones.
Updated by on Fri, March 12, 2021
2021 and The Property Market
The property market made an unexpected positive recovery during the last half of 2020. With many wanting to buy, sell or move house when the property market reopened in May. Read our blog to find out the predictions for the housing market in 2021.
Updated by on Wed, March 10, 2021
Buy To Let Barometer
After the last year, landlords appear to be upbeat about prospects for the next three months. This infographic takes you through everything landlord related such average yield, rental portfolios and buy to let properties - Read more
Updated by on Sun, March 7, 2021
Property Market Surprisingly Resilient
Despite the huge hit the economy and property market suffered, it is surprising just how resilient the housing market has been with first time buyers rushing to get on the property ladder and also a number of people wanting to find a new home more suited
Updated by on Fri, March 5, 2021
90% LTV Mortgages Return - Pros and Cons
Due to the pandemic a lot of mortgage lenders became stricter on accepting applications, making it quite a challenge for first time buyers to get onto the property ladder. Loan to Value mortgages are making a comeback. But what are they?
Updated by on Wed, March 3, 2021
How To Get The Protection You Need
This past year has shown us all just how important protection is to ensure ourselves and our loved ones are supported if the unexpected happens. We take you through the different types of protection options and explain how beneficial these could be to you
Updated by on Mon, March 1, 2021
How to check you're mortgage ready
Are you looking to get on the property ladder or in need of remortgaging? It is crucial to ensure your finances are healthy before completing your mortgage application. These are some steps to follow to make sure you are prepared.
Updated by on Thu, February 25, 2021
Keep Calm and Complete on Time
With the Stamp Duty Holiday set to end next month, many buyers and sellers are trying to get their property transactions completed. We have written some key top tips to help you remain calm whilst handling your conveyancing process.
Updated by on Wed, February 24, 2021
Co-habiting? Get protected
Over the last decade, the number of couples choosing to live together has increased by over 25 percent. However, many of those are doing so without being married or entering a civil partnership, leaving themselves legally vulnerable!
Updated by on Tue, February 23, 2021
Your coffee or your life? Get covered!
Research has shown that the average household in the UK spend more on their favourite coffee or tea whilst not paying for life insurance and leaving themselves and their family unprotected.
Updated by on Sat, February 20, 2021
Income protection in a post-COVID world
COVID 19 has highlighted just how important financial protection is to have in place. But what is income insurance and how it can offer you and your loved ones peace of mind, if the unexpected was to happen.
Updated by on Thu, February 18, 2021
Life insurance, where did it all begin?
Life insurance now is very common and is used by thousands to protect those important to them by offering financial help. but where did it all start?
Updated by on Mon, February 15, 2021
Is a cashless society inevitable?
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, retailers and restaurants have continued to refuse coins and banknotes, contributing to the already existing decline of cash that we have seen over the last few years. In this blog, we explain what others factors have lea
Updated by on Mon, February 8, 2021
Protecting Your Mortgage, Income and Property
Are you wanting to get onto the property ladder but are finding it difficult to do so. Here are a few methods that could help you to purchase a property and protecting the things that are important to use.
Updated by on Fri, February 5, 2021
Looking To Purchase a Property With Just a Zero or 5% Deposit?
Are you looking to purchase a property but have little to zero deposit? There are options that could help you to achieve this. Visit our latest blog to learn more.
Updated by on Wed, February 3, 2021
5 Tips For Newbie Property Investors
Are you looking to start property investing, we have come up with a list of top tips to help you on your way.
Updated by on Sat, January 30, 2021
Equity release now funding everyday life
Equity release is normally used as a way to fund things such as later life care, your dream holiday and more. However, we have seen more people requesting to use these funds for everyday living.
Updated by on Fri, January 29, 2021
Valuations and Surveys
When buying a property, there are different types of valuations & surveys you can pay for which can help you to determine whether the property is worth the amount you are looking to pay! Find out more on how these valuations can help you!
Updated by on Wed, January 27, 2021
Don't forget you mortgage matters
Have you got the right mortgage for you and your circumstances? When a mortgage deal ends you may be automatically switched to your lender's SVR and could be paying alot more than you should. Read more to find out what SVR means and how can you avoid this
Updated by on Wed, January 20, 2021
A lending hand in times of need
During the pandemic we have continued to see the bank of mum and dad step in to help with the financial hit caused by the Coronavirus. See just how our parents and grandparents have helped within the past months.
Updated by on Mon, January 18, 2021
'Titantic' payouts after 1912 disaster
After the tragic events of the Titanic, the total amount paid out to the families of the victims has been released. In this blog, we tell you just how important it is to consider taking out an insurance plan.
Updated by on Fri, January 15, 2021
Are Mortgages Flexible?
When looking for a mortgage it is important you find the right mortgage for you and your circumstances. However, what happens if your situation or needs change? In this blog we explain just how flexible your mortgage can be!
Updated by on Tue, January 12, 2021
Energy Performance Certificates
When buying, selling or renting a property you need to have Energy Perfomance Certificates! In our blog we explain what EPCs are and what the purpose of them are.
Updated by on Wed, January 6, 2021
Mortgage approvals hit 13 year high
Despite the unprecedented year we experienced last year, the mortgage market has seen the number of mortgage approvals rocket since October 2007. In this blog, we explain what could have contributed to this increase.
Updated by on Mon, January 4, 2021
It's not too late to reduce Stamp Duty Bill
It's not too late for you to take advantage of the Government's Stamp Duty Holiday that they implemented earlier in the year. The new scheme has seen a positive effect on the mortgage market and could make the house buying process easier for you.
Updated by on Wed, December 23, 2020
Credit Scoring
Learn the key information about credit scoring and why this can be a crucial part of achieving the mortgage you want!
Updated by on Mon, December 14, 2020
Specialist Mortgages
Are you wanting to get on the property ladder, sometimes your requirements and circumstances might make the process of getting a mortgage even harder. Read our article to see how a specialist mortgage could be the solution for you and your family.
Updated by on Tue, December 8, 2020
Mortgage Market - A Strong Recovery
As we felt the social and financial impact of COVID-19 earlier in the year, there was also a clear decline in the activity of the mortgage market. However, in the "new normal" we have had to adapt to, the mortgage market seems to be looking more positive.
Updated by on Sun, December 6, 2020
Ways To Repay Your Mortgage
There are two styles of mortgage repayment. In this article we touch on what these are and the advantages and disadvantages they hold, helping you to identify which type of repayment would suit you and your circumstances best.
Updated by on Mon, November 30, 2020
Types of Mortgage Rates
With so many different types of mortgage plans it can be hard to find the right plan for you. Read our latest blog to see how you might benefit from adding them to your mortgage.
Updated by on Fri, November 27, 2020
Consolidating Debts
Are you struggling to repay your debts with your current repayment scheme, read our latest blog to see how you could benefit by adding them to your mortgage.
Updated by on Thu, November 26, 2020
How Much Can I Borrow
When applying for a loan, there are multiple factors that can impact the amount of money you are able to borrow. Read our blog to find out what things could effect the amount you are allowed to borrow.
Updated by on Mon, November 23, 2020
Know The Costs Of Getting A Mortgage
When looking to buy a home or remortgage, it is so important to note the different costs and fees that you will come across. In our latest blog we explain these types of costs and how to find the best solution for you.
Updated by on Wed, November 4, 2020
Add Value - A Happy Street Name Helps
Recent research suggests that the street name of certain areas can boost the value of a property. Find out how much housing prices could be increased due to their street name.
Updated by on Wed, October 14, 2020
Buyers Move Further For New Builds
Recent research shows that new builds are becoming more and more attractive to buyers, with many actually moving to a further location for their desired new home.
Updated by on Fri, October 9, 2020
Life Insurance Myth Busters
Despite, having financial responsibilities, a lot of UK households do not have life insurance. In this blog we look at the myths surrounding life insurance and how it could help for you and your circumstances.
Updated by on Tue, October 6, 2020
Exchanging Contracts? Get Insured
It can be very stressful buying a property. Here are a few important things to note when you are going through the purchasing process.
Updated by on Fri, October 2, 2020
Ongoing Support For Mortgage Borrowers
Many homeowners have taken advantage of the mortgage payment holiday to help with their financial concerns. Find out what this holiday entails and whether it could benefit you.
Updated by on Mon, September 28, 2020
Housing Market Sees Steadying Demand
Read the latest news on the housing market and how the pandemic has impacted it since March.
Updated by on Mon, September 21, 2020
Protection Cover Is More Vital Than Ever
COVID-19 has caused alot of damage to many. Such as losing their job and financial security as well as many losing their lives. Therefore, it is now more important than ever that you are protected. Learn more about why protection is vital.
Updated by on Fri, September 18, 2020
Working For Home? Are You Covered?
Many office based workers are now having to be working from home for the forseeable future to avoid the chances of a second wave.
Updated by on Mon, September 14, 2020
Should I Remortgage Now?
The last few months have seen interest rates and house prices take a hit but could this be a good time for those looking to remortgage to do so?
Updated by on Thu, September 10, 2020
Protection In A Changing World
We have seen the effects the Coronavirus pandemic have had on our lives and has highlighted the importance of having protection insurance.
Updated by on Wed, September 9, 2020
The Ultimate Financial Stress Test?
COVID-19 has proven to be the ultimate financial stress test for alot of us. Read our latest blog to see how you can boost your financial resilience.
Updated by on Fri, September 4, 2020
Home Working Opens New Possibilities
As more and more of us are being allowed to go back to work, it is likely that the number of people having to continue working from home will be significantly different.
Updated by on Tue, September 1, 2020
Pandemic Fuels Demand For Rural Homes
A new survey has found that having a dedicated space for work within the home is becoming a priority feature within searching for their next home.
Updated by on Sun, August 30, 2020
Fall In UK Annual House Prices
Due to COVID-19 alot has changed within socialising, work and the economy. Here is how the housing market has been effected within the past few months.
Updated by on Mon, August 24, 2020
Has Lockdown Made You Want To Move?
With many of us having to work from home during lockdown, we have had to adapt, turning spare rooms into home offices. But what does mean for the housing market.
Updated by on Fri, August 21, 2020
Stamp Duty Break For Many Homeowners
The new Stamp Duty holiday is the latest way the Government is trying to boost the property market, encouraging people to move, sell and renovate their homes. Find out all about the new holiday.
Updated by on Tue, August 18, 2020
Be Scam Smart as Fraud Goes Viral
During the outbreak, we have seen the number of financial scams increase, targeting those who are vulnerable or under financial pressure.
Updated by on Sat, August 15, 2020
The Chancellor's Economic Update
Read about the Chancellor's economic update and how the Government are looking to help the economy get back on the track.
Updated by on Thu, August 13, 2020
Coronavirus - Building Financial Resilience
Lockdown has taught us to expect the unexpected. Read our latest blog to learn how we can help you to build financial resilience for you and your loved ones, if the worst was to happen.
Updated by on Fri, August 7, 2020
Here To Meet Your Challenges Head On
At Simmonds Mortgage Services, we are here to provide you with our expert help and guidance for your circumstances and demands. Read our blog to learn more.
Updated by on Wed, August 5, 2020
A New Stamp Duty Holiday Announced
The government has just revealed a stamp duty holiday for homebuyers in England and Northern Ireland, in an attempt to kick-start the economy. Is now the perfect time to move home or relocate?
Updated by on Thu, July 30, 2020
Know The Steps Of Buying A House
Whether you are a first-time buyer or are looking to move house, learn the different stages of buying process and know what to expect when making your purchase.
Updated by on Mon, July 27, 2020
Considerations when co-buying a property
With the increasing house prices, it can be difficult to get on the property ladder. One solution that is becoming very popular is co-buying a property with friends.
Updated by on Thu, June 25, 2020
Life After Lockdown
I am continuing to be asked for my take on the property prices and housing market after Lockdown. Find out my thoughts on life after lockdown!
Updated by on Mon, June 22, 2020
Renters, don't forget income protection
The majority of those in UK rented accommodation do not have income protection, leaving them exposed to potential risks, if the unexpected were to happen. Find out the how income protection can help you.
Updated by on Thu, June 18, 2020
Time To Prioritise Age-Friendly Homes
Despite the grow in new housing builds across the UK, developers tend to overlook the over 55s and not considering their needs.
Updated by on Tue, June 16, 2020
Flats Out Of Favour
Over the years, more and more people are wanting to buy houses over flats. Find out why choosing a house is the more popular option for those looking to buy.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, June 11, 2020
Puzzled By Protection
Understanding all the different terms surrounding protection can be a little confusing! We will help you to get a clear idea of the different covers and aspects of protection.
Updated by on Tue, June 9, 2020
Managing Debt In Retirement
With factors such as increasing house prices, an ageing population and more. The later life lending market is expected to increase by 85% over the decade. Learn what this means for those entering retirement.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Wed, June 3, 2020
Joint Or Single Life Cover
If you are in a couple, when looking for the right insurance plan, you should consider whether to choose a joint or two single policies.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Mon, June 1, 2020
Writing your life insurance cover in trust
Are you aware that life insurance is an asset which can be placed in trust? In this blog we explain what this means and what the benefits and limitations of doing so.
Updated by on Thu, May 28, 2020
Growth in Green Mortgages
The government have come up with a way to help the financial services to offer more green financial products, such as mortgages.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Tue, May 26, 2020
Mortgage Market Outlook Post Covid 19
Whilst these have been challenging times, from a financial perspective it may not be as bad as you think. We take a look at how the mortgage market will be post COVID-19 and the impact this may have on you.
Updated by on Sat, May 23, 2020
Looking to move home or take out a new mortgage post COVID 19
Whether you are looking to move house or take out a new mortgage post COVID 19, we have come up with ten expert tips to help you to be one step closer.
Updated by on Thu, May 21, 2020
Would You Insure Your Pet Over Yourself?
Research has found that more and more people are taking out insurance to protect their pets but do not think about insurance for themselves. Find out how having a protection plan could be helpful to you.
Updated by on Tue, May 19, 2020
New parents and life insurance
With the arrival of their baby approaching, new parents are spending more than ever in preparation. However, the preparations don't extend to their protection planning. Would your family be able to cope financially if the unexpected happened and didn't h
Updated by on Sun, May 17, 2020
Protecting Your Income
Last year, over a million working-age people were off work due to serious illness or accident. Having income protection would help you to keep a roof over you head.
Updated by on Fri, May 15, 2020
Life Insurance for Each Stage of Life
Throughout your entire life, there may be a point when you need life insurance. As you move through the different stages of life, the type of insurance and your requirements change.
Updated by on Tue, May 12, 2020
COVID-19 and Mortgage Holidays
Due to the financial impact COVID-19 is having on many people. It was recently announced that a three-month mortgage holiday for those struggling to keep up with payments.
Updated by on Sat, May 9, 2020
Is health protection cover too complex?
The FCA has said that providers are not doing enough to protect people against rising premiums and inadequate policies. Find out why people are not taking out policies and why it is important to learn and get advice about them..
Updated by on Thu, May 7, 2020
What does Bank of England base rate cut mean for you?
In order to limit the impact COVID-19 is having on the economy, the Bank of England have cut interest rates to a record low. We explain what effect this will have on you.
Updated by on Mon, May 4, 2020
Look after your Mental Health
During these difficult times, its unsurprising that our stress and anxiety levels are higher than normal. So it is crucial to look after your mental health. Read the NHS's advice.
Updated by on Fri, May 1, 2020
COVID-19 and Protection Cover
With the Coronavirus outbreak having such a massive impact on people's livelihoods, businesses within the retail, leisure and hospitality industries are suffering and many have lost their jobs and lives due to the virus.
Updated by on Mon, April 27, 2020
Spot and stop COVID-19 scams
During these difficult times, there is a growing number of fraudsters trying to scam and take advantage of people.
Updated by on Wed, April 22, 2020
Government steps in to help homeowners and renters
Due to the COVID-19 crisis, businesses across the UK are suffering and many workers have taken a hit to their income. Read how the government are stepping in to support people to remain in their homes.
Updated by on Mon, April 20, 2020
Are you self employed and run your business as a Ltd Company?
If you are a director of the Limited Company and choose to take out life insurance, the premiums are paid by the business. Read why this could make the policy cheaper.
Updated by on Fri, April 17, 2020
Keep Calm, Review Your Finances
With the COVID-19 outbreak and the impact it is having on our daily life, it is understandable that many of us are more anxious than normal.
Updated by on Thu, April 16, 2020
No Let Up For The Bank of Mum And Dad
First-Time Buyers both young and old continue to rely on their parents for financial support to get onto the housing ladder.
Updated by on Tue, April 14, 2020
'Accidental' Landlords Could Face Tax Bill
'Accidental' landlords could be hit with new tax bills. if unable to sell. Learn about the new rules for landlords and letting relief.
Updated by on Fri, April 3, 2020
Mortgage Approvals At Decade High
Last year the number of home loan approvals was at its highest since 2009, hitting over 95,000 approvals. Find out what is driving the growth and why July was the highest monthly total.
Updated by on Wed, March 25, 2020
The Value Of Protection
Protection insurance is a crucial way in providing security for yourself, your family & important possessions! Learn how you protection cover can help you.
Updated by on Sat, March 21, 2020
Improving Not Moving
With house prices continuing to rise, more and more people are choosing to spend their money on improving their homes instead of moving.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, March 12, 2020
Bank of Mum and Dad - 11th Largest Lender
The Bank of Mum and Dad is still appearing to be an important role within the UK housing market, with many receiving financial help from their parents when buying their home.
Updated by on Tue, March 3, 2020
Getting Your Home Insurance Right
When looking to get insurance, having enough insurance is almost as important as having the insurance itself. We explain what to think about when looking for insurance cover.
Updated by on Fri, February 28, 2020
Mind The Gender Protection Gap
Recent figures by technology firm, IRESS show a vast difference in protection cover sums between men and women.
Updated by on Mon, February 24, 2020
FCA Cracks Down On Investment Scams
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has set up a team to crack down on Investment Scams and Fraud on the internet.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Fri, February 21, 2020
Do You Have The Right Protection Cover?
As you go through the different stages of life, you will need different types of protection needs.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Tue, February 18, 2020
Equity Release 2019
With house prices having risen sharply over recent years, equity release is a popular way to access the capital tied up in property.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, December 5, 2019
40 Year Mortgages Boon or Burden?
Longer-term mortgages mean lower monthly repayments, making them more affordable.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Tue, November 12, 2019
Buy To Let Mortgages Explained
A buy-to-let mortgage is for people who want to purchase a property as an investment in order to let it out to tenants
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Sat, November 2, 2019
Improve Your Mortgage Chances
A mortgage application can be a difficult process, with a variety of factors influencing the outcome. In this article we touch on these and everything you need to know in hoe you can improve your mortgage.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, October 31, 2019
Property Wealth
With the rapid increase of an ageing population, what property wealth challenges might they face?
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Fri, October 25, 2019
Now Is The Time First Time Buyers
Looking to buy your first home? It is a great time to be a first time buyer!
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, October 24, 2019
BTL Ship has Steadied
The Buy To Let Ship Has Steadied!
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Mon, October 21, 2019
Research shows who Mortgage Brokers' most loyal customers are!
New research shows that portfolio landlords are most loyal and would use the same broker again when it is time for their next mortgage.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Wed, October 9, 2019
The Number of New Builds Goes Up
The Land Registry has reported the number of new builds registered in England and Wales during August 2019 was up almost 8%
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Wed, October 9, 2019
Equity Release - An option in funding retirement and living costs in later life
As we live longer and save less, Equity Release will be one option amongst many to fund retirement and living costs in later life.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Sun, October 6, 2019
Your first home may be closer than you think!
Your first home may be closer than you think, you shouldn't neglect looking for a property or a wider radius such as 30 minutes away from your desired town or village.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Fri, October 4, 2019
Selling a house can be more challenging than you think!
Selling a house can be more challenging than you think!!!
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Fri, October 4, 2019
First -Timers Need £38K For A Home Deposit
New research from property portal Zoopla shows the soaring cost of property means that first-time buyers need hefty deposits in order to afford a home in some of the UK's major cities.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Thu, October 3, 2019
Maximise Your Mortgage Borrowing
When you apply for a mortgage, lenders will assess your finances and your ability to make repayments on your loan. So, it pays to do your homework in advance.
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Wed, October 2, 2019
Self Employed Mortgages Explained
Can I get a Mortgage if I am Self Employed?
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Fri, September 20, 2019
Are you protected if the unexpected happens?
Ask yourself this - what would you do if you were unable to work due to ill health or an accident?
Updated by Simmonds Mortgage Services on Sun, March 18, 2018