General news

Couples are 'most popular household occupiers'

Couples with no dependent children were the most common home occupiers in 2008-09, according to a survey published today (February 23rd). And the couples who did not have to finance any kids were also the most popular owner-occupiers (42 per cent) in the same period. The Communities and Local Government published the figures as part of the English Housing Survey Headline ...

23rd Feb 2010

Homeowners Advice Centre: Increasing number of reckless borrowers

The numbers of "reckless borrowers" that accumulate huge unsecured debt is increasing, according to the Homeowners Advice Centre. Al Elliott, co-owner of the Homeowners Advice Centre, said that careless lenders were "seemingly secure in the knowledge" that bankruptcy would be their get out clause. But Mr Elliot added that the granting of a charging order ...

9th Feb 2010

Sympathetic approach to tenants could benefit landlords

Property investors who take a sympathetic approach to tenants struggling under the weight of a financial burden could reap the benefits in the long-term. Tessa Shepperson, solicitor at LandlordLaw.co.uk, outlined the reasons why landlords should put values of respect and decency at the forefront of their relationship with tenants. She observed: "If your landlord does ...

3rd Feb 2010

New sale and rent back plans 'a good thing'

An expert has suggested that new Financial Services Authority (FSA) rules designed to protect those using sale and rent back schemes is a positive step. Kevin Still, director of debt solution specialist EuroDebt, suggested that many consumers will benefit from the chance to seek properly authorised advisors if they are struggling with their home repayments. He noted: ...

1st Feb 2010

Expert: House building future 'relatively positive'

The prospects for the house building industry are relatively positive, according to an expert whose comments may interest anyone looking to gain finance for a new home. Nick Whitten, associate editor at Construction News, suggested that activity in the sector might provide signs of encouragement for potential property spenders. In contrast to the construction industry as a ...

27th Jan 2010

Affordable housing 'should be available for all'

A good standard of affordable housing should be available for all sections of society, it has been suggested. Rhian Beynon, head of policy and campaigns at Family Action, discussed the difficulties that many citizens face in having to raise children in challenging conditions. She said: "It is important that good quality, affordable housing is within the means of poorer ...

26th Jan 2010

Central London 'a hot location for home buyers'

Home buyers who are keen to locate themselves in the capital may be interested in an expert's comments regarding the city's most sought-after areas. According to Naomi Heaton, chief executive of London Central Portfolio, many purchasers may see homes in the capital's inner core as a unique investment opportunity. She said: "Residential property in London central has ...

25th Jan 2010

Housing precautions recommended for keeping out the cold

Certain precautions must be taken to prevent housing problems during the UK's cold snap. According to the Consumer Council for Water, people should check pipes for signs of leaks - because when the temperature does start to rise, any cracks formed by the previously freezing conditions could have caused them to burst. Dripping taps, wet spots on carpets or ceilings and soggy ...

19th Jan 2010

Market overhaul 'could transform home building sector'

An expert has suggested that decisive government action could propel the home building market onto bigger and better things. David Bexon, managing director of SmartNewHomes.com, recently said that although the recovery of the house building industry has been welcome, it would be beneficial if the sector was given greater support. He stated: "There are a range of ...

18th Jan 2010

Protect your home 'during a long holiday'

Consumers heading off in search of some sun this winter may want to ensure their home is adequately protected while left unattended. This is the advice recently given by Sainsbury's Home Insurance, which pointed out that more than one-third of the policies on the market do not provide cover should a property be unoccupied for over 30 days. It found that some 4.1 million ...

13th Jan 2010

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