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Author: amoore70
UK Tax Residency explained
The rules on tax residency in the UK are primarily determined by the Statutory Residence Test (SRT), which establishes whether an individual is a tax resident in the UK for a given tax year. The SRT consists of three main parts: 1. Automatic Overseas Tests You are automatically considered non-resident for the tax year if… Read more
Support for mortgage interest loans (SMI) explained
Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) is a government scheme in the UK that provides financial assistance to help cover the interest payments on a mortgage or other home loans. The scheme is designed to support homeowners who are receiving certain income-related benefits and are struggling to pay their mortgage interest. Here’s a detailed explanation of… Read more
Intermediation and disintermediation explained
In the context of UK mortgages, “intermediation” and “disintermediation” refer to the involvement of intermediaries (usually mortgage brokers) in the mortgage process. Intermediation Intermediation in the UK mortgage market involves the use of intermediaries, typically mortgage brokers, who act as middlemen between borrowers and lenders. Disintermediation Disintermediation in the UK mortgage market refers to the… Read more
Spray foam insulation – is it worth it?
Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation material used to improve the energy efficiency of buildings by sealing gaps, cracks, and voids in walls, ceilings, floors, and other areas. In the UK, spray foam insulation is becoming increasingly popular due to its effectiveness in reducing heat loss, improving indoor comfort, and lowering energy bills.… Read more
When is the best time of the year to sell a property?
The best time to sell a property in the UK can vary depending on various factors, including market conditions, seasonal trends, and individual circumstances. However, there are a few general considerations to keep in mind when determining the optimal time to sell: Spring (March to May): Summer (June to August): Autumn (September to November): Winter… Read more
Village living – the pro’s and con’s
Living in a village in the UK offers a unique lifestyle that appeals to many people seeking a sense of community, tranquility, and connection to nature. However, village life also comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of living in a village in the UK:… Read more
Gambling and the impact on mortgage applications
Will my gambling habit affect my mortgage application? Yes, gambling can indeed affect mortgage applications. Lenders in the UK scrutinize an applicant’s financial behavior closely, and gambling activities can raise red flags that may impact the approval process for a mortgage. Here’s how gambling can influence your mortgage application: 1. Impact on Creditworthiness 2. Assessment… Read more
How much value is added to a property after installing gas central heating?
Adding gas central heating to a house in the UK is one of the most effective ways to increase its value and appeal. In a country where cold and damp winters are a regular occurrence, having a reliable heating system is not just a comfort but often a necessity. But how much value does it… Read more
List of lenders who offer commercial mortgages
Here is a list of some UK lenders who specialize in commercial mortgages: 1. Barclays 2. HSBC 3. NatWest 4. Lloyds Bank 5. Santander 6. Shawbrook Bank 7. Aldermore 8. Handelsbanken 9. Together Money 10. Paragon Bank 11. Cambridge & Counties Bank 12. HSBC Kinetic 13. Investec 14. Octopus Real Estate 15. LendInvest These lenders… Read more
Semi-commercial mortgages explained
In the UK’s complex property market, financing can often be a challenge, especially when the property in question doesn’t fit neatly into either a residential or purely commercial category. This is where a semi-commercial mortgage comes into play. This type of mortgage is specifically designed for properties that have both residential and commercial elements. What… Read more