Three in five first-time buyers depend on the bank of mum and dad in order to get onto the property ladder, according to research by Just Group. In the last five years, 61 per cent of FTBs relied on financial help from relatives in order to purchase a property. In comparison, just 20 per cent of FTBs relied on financial assistance from relatives 30 years ago.
2020 saw landlords fall victim to empty properties and reduced rents in a bid to cling onto the remaining city dwellers. But fast forward 18 months post-pandemic and according to reports from London estate agents, the tide is turning on the London rental market, as renters look to return to urban life.
Over 15% of the UK’s total carbon footprint comes from emissions created at home, so it falls to all of us to do our bit to improve our home life for the better when it comes to considering the environment. As you are in control of how you run your household and how you shop, there is no easier way to start making immediate changes, than with our three easy ways to greenify your home.
So, are you thinking of jumping on the second home bandwagon? Whether it’s switching an existing let property from a long-term rental to capitalise on the more lucrative short-stay market, or buying a second property or even adding to their portfolio, there is a boom in UK buy-to-let and second home property purchases happening right now.
Modern mortgage needs are so wide reaching for today’s homeowners, that equity release is fast becoming a more commonplace method of funding a retirement income. Having evolved hugely from their early, more rigid days, there are now far more lenders in the market offering flexible equity release products.
Making the decision to buy a property anywhere can be hugely daunting, and that’s before you factor in properties with a London price tag. The average price of a property in London stands at £696,453 at the time of writing, meaning that a 10% deposit stands at an eye-watering £69,600. Still, London’s allure remains strong for every market player, from first-time buyers to investors. And where there is a will, there’s a way! So, if you’ve set your sights on affording a London property, then Skyline Mortgage Consultants are here to help you reach your ultimate goal of owning your own home in the capital.
As homeowners we’ve learned to maximise every inch of outdoor space. The last 18 months have taught us the benefits of being outside and made us think of any balcony, rooftop, or garden as an extension of our home. Those of us without a postcard worthy view have made the best of what we have, planting pots to detoxify the air and throwing open the windows to breathe in every little bit of nature, whenever we can.
