Blog
Insights from the Charles James team
Original Stamp Duty deadline date March 31st extended
At the moment, those who are looking to purchase property are not obligated to pay an extra lump sum of fees thanks to the government’s stamp duty holiday.
Understanding mortgages as a first-time buyer
We understand mortgages can be a confusing topic. If you're a first-time buyer, it's important you have a clear understanding of mortgages and your options before you buy your first home.
What is a remortgage?
Did you know you could save money every month by remortgaging? With interest rates at an all-time low, if you are currently paying a standard variable rate it may be worth considering remortgaging to bring down the rate of interest you’re currently paying.
How does furlough affect your mortgage?
If you have been furloughed and are currently on the government Job Retention Scheme, you may understandably be slightly worried about how this may affect your mortgage application.
Plan To Allow First-Time Buyers To Access Pensions For House Deposit Comes Under Fire
As the Housing Secretary calls on the government to allow first-time buyers to access their pension funds to help fund a deposit on a house, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) argue against the proposal.
Mortgage Approvals at A 2 Year High
Mortgage lenders approved 42,989 mortgages in April of this year, which may be a sign that the housing market is showing strength in uncertain times.
Can You Afford Your Mortgage Repayments?
Whether or not you are able to take out a mortgage depends on your ability to repay the loan, or rather, your lender’s confidence in your ability to repay.
When To Compromise On Buying A House
The latest homebuyers’ survey from Which? has found that many people regret some of the compromises they have made when buying their home.
Paying Off Your Mortgage Early
In such uncertain economic times, it can be confusing as to whether or not you should pay off your mortgage early, provided you are able to .
Different Ways To Repay Your Mortgage
When repaying your mortgage, there may be one solution that is better for you than others. There are three different ways you can arrange repayment of a mortgage, with each varying on the way in which repayments and interest is structured.
Over Half Of Families To Help Relatives Buy Their First House
With young people struggling to get on the housing ladder, around 54% of families will use cash savings to help relatives purchase their first house this year.
Mortgages Become Cheaper For First-Time Buyers
Those looking to get a foot on the housing ladder may be tempted to act sooner rather than later.
Charles James Named in FTAdviser's Top 100 Financial Advisers 2018
Charles James Financial Planning is delighted to announce our inclusion into FTAdviser’s Top 100 Financial Advisers 2018!
Autumn Budget Recap 2018
We look through the key points from the Autumn Budget, with a focus on taxation, housing and welfare.
No-Deal Brexit: Pensions, Savings and Mortgages
Just seven months remain until the UK leaves the European Union, and with an ever increasing chance of a “No-Deal Brexit”, we take a look at what that means for you.
Prepare Yourself For A Mortgage
When taking out a new mortgage, or even remortgaging, you will need to answer questions and provide information about your finances. Here’s what you can expect…
What The Interest Rate Rise Means For You
Despite the base interest rate increasing in November 2017 - the first increase in more than a decade - the Bank of England has announced another increase.
First-Time Buyer Numbers Exceed Home Movers
For the first time in 23 years, the number of first-time buyers has exceeded the number of current home owners looking to sell.
Is Now The Best Time To Take Out A Mortgage?
Mortgage rates look set to increase, with many in the industry claiming it is better to take out a mortgage sooner rather than later.
35 Year Olds Should Have Double Their Salary in Savings
According to a leading investments firm, workers should have double their annual salaries in savings by the time they reach their mid-30s.