Published in December 2009

How house prices have changed around the world

by Cliff D'Arcy | If you think that the UK housing market was bad this year, then look at how house prices soared and crashed in other countries!

The winner for 2009: shares or property?

by Cliff D'Arcy | With this year being a roller-coaster ride for shares and house prices, we reveal the victorious investment for 2009.

Cut your mortgage costs by £2,617 by Christmas 2011!

by Jane Baker | Find out how you can shave thousands of pounds off your mortgage costs by the end of 2011.

Beware the spring property bounce

by Harvey Jones | Experts are predicting a spring property bounce in 2010. But if you think this marks the start of a sustained house price recovery, you're a sucker.....

The best and worst types of properties

by Cliff D'Arcy | Not all homes are equally desirable and some dwellings gain value faster than others. We find the best and worst property types to buy.

Fix your mortgage rate at 4.86%

by Mark Adams | The big lenders are rushing to cut prices for fixed mortgage deals - but is it worth paying a premium to enjoy peace of mind? Mark Adams finds out.

The best and worst areas to buy property

by Cliff D'Arcy | Cliff D'Arcy examines 26 years of house-price data to show you which parts of the UK produce the biggest rises in house prices...

The top 10 property mistakes

by Rachel Wait | Whether you're buying a property or thinking about selling one, make sure you don't fall foul of these 10 expensive mistakes...

Buying a house? These are the mortgage rates you want!

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons hunts out the mortgage rates which should be top of your wish-list if you're about to buy a property.

The best and worst properties to own

by Cliff D'Arcy | We've crunched the numbers to find you the properties that increase in value fastest...

Boost your property's value by £20,000

by John Fitzsimons | House prices are dictated by far more than the property itself. John Fitzsimons looks at the factors that play the biggest part in deciding how much your home is worth.

If your current mortgage interest rate is your lender's SVR, should you switch?

by Christina Jordan | Mortgage lenders' default rates are currently low, but they have massive potential to rise - and quickly. Should you switch your current mortgage interest rate if you're on the SVR?

Get the cheapest and the best mortgage rate

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan rounds up the cheapest mortgage deals available, no matter how big - or small - your deposit.

The best three-year tracker mortgage around

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons explains why Alliance & Leicester's three-year tracker mortgage is worthy of its table-topping status

Published in November 2009

The best mortgage deals!

by Christina Jordan | Another fortnight, another raft of new mortgage deals launched. Find out which is the best mortgage deal for you!

The top 21 fixed mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | How long should you fix your mortgage rate for? Christina Jordan rounds up the best two, three, five and ten-year fixed mortgage deals.

House prices: The only way is up

by Christina Jordan | News about the low number of new homes being built means the only way is up for property prices, says Chrstina Jordan.

Fulfil your property dreams

by Alison Hunt | Alison Hunt explores the cheapest way to get a dream home.

Sell up or the squatters will move in

by Neil Faulkner | One council is warning landlords to sell up or get squatters. We reveal the measures councils can take to fill up neglected homes, the effects of squatters, and what you can do about an empty home in your area.

125% mortgage deals are back

by Rachel Wait | Coventry Building Society has started offering new mortgage deals to borrowers who already owe 25% more than their home is worth. But is this as irresponsible as it seems?

The future of the housing market

by Christina Jordan | Fewer property repossessions are expected this year. Christina Jordan takes an in-depth look at what this means for the housing market.

Mortgage rates are getting cheaper

by Christina Jordan | At last, mortgages are getting cheaper! Find out which are the best deals around at the moment.

Watch out: Buy-to-let is back....

by Harvey Jones | The buy-to-let market is heating up again - be afraid. Be very afraid....

The future's bright for buy-to-let

by Christina Jordan | Why investing in property has become attractive again.

The worst is yet to come for homeowners

by Cliff D'Arcy | Bad news for struggling homeowners: these trends will force banks to seize more homes next year...

House prices won't fall again for years

by Harvey Jones | Low interest rates will support house prices until 2014, argues Harvey Jones. And he's not happy about it.

House prices have bottomed, says Sarah Beeny

by Ed Bowsher | Ed Bowsher chats to Sarah Beeny, presenter of Channel Four's `Property Snakes and Ladders' about the housing market, property developing, and her new online venture, Tepilo.

Property prices will fall

by Ed Bowsher | Our property poll suggests house prices will fall in 2010 - but Sarah Beeny reckons they've bottomed.

The estate agent debate

by Ed Bowsher | Is it essential to use an estate agent when you sell your home? We speak to Sarah Beeny and estate agent, Philip Bullman to get both sides of the argument.

Make sure your estate agent doesn't rip you off

by Ed Bowsher | Ninety per cent of lovemoney.com readers think estate agents aren't worth their commission. Check out these tips to make sure you don't get ripped off.

Large deposits no longer needed to get the best mortgages

by Christina Jordan | Lenders are getting more relaxed about what you can put down as a deposit!

The variable mortgage deal that beats base rate rises!

by John Fitzsimons | With the Base Rate likely to rise soon, going for a tracker mortgage is a gamble. That is, unless you go for this one!

House price rises are here to stay!

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan explains why recent statistics make her feel positive about property prices

Five fantastic fixed mortgage deals!

by Jane Baker | Now is the right time to take the plunge with a longer-term fixed rate mortgage, argues Jane Baker.

Great mortgage deals from the Rock!

by Jane Baker | Jane Baker checks out the new mortgage range from Northern Rock.

The best variable mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Turbulent times for the wider economy means interest rates are likely to stay low for the foreseeable future. Make the most of low rates with one of these top variable mortgage deals, says Christina Jordan.

Protect your home from costly winter crises

by Anna Powell | Winter is approaching fast! Our simple tips will keep your home snug and safe in the coldest months, and prevent costly problems.

Great news for homebuyers

by Cliff D'Arcy | At last, housing bear Cliff D'Arcy has something positive to say about the property market....

Buy-to-let investors are kidding themselves

by Christina Jordan | Landlords are being wildly optimistic about the potential of the buy-to-let market. Stop kidding yourselves - you're still in for a rough time, says Christina Jordan.

Don't let shady landlords off the hook!

by John Fitzsimons | Tenants have plenty of rights, but not all landlords respect them as they should. Make sure you don't let them get away with it!

Published in October 2009

Eight frightening facts about your mortgage costs

by Christina Jordan | This Hallowe'en, we take a furtive peek at some spine-chilling financial facts about your future mortgage costs.

Rate cuts at the bank we all own

by Christina Jordan | Northern Rock is undercutting rivals, splitting in two and back on Branson's shopping list. What's going on?

Get paid to stay at home!

by Anna Powell | Getting paid to stay at home - too good to be true? Not necessarily. All around the country, house sitters are being paid to look after other people's houses!

Why mortgage borrowers could be left high and dry

by Christina Jordan | The mortgage market is facing a huge overhaul. Check out the good, the bad and the mad proposals from the FSA.

Borrowers: beware of payment shock!

by Christina Jordan | Mortgage borrowers on low SVRs think they are sitting pretty... but actually, they are sitting precariously!

It's time to buy property

by Neil Faulkner | Read five more arguments against a housing crash and for buying property now.

Don't miss out on the best mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | As the temperature drops, the mortgage market has started hotting up, with lots of new best buys launched in the past few days.

Why first-time buyers should think twice

by Cliff D'Arcy | If you think falling house prices have been good news for first-time buyers, think again.

The best mortgage deals I have ever seen

by John Fitzsimons | HSBC and Woolwich have each launched variable mortgage deals with staggeringly low interest rates. But which is the better deal? John Fitzsimons investigates.

Why it's cheaper to buy than to rent

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordon explains why now is the right time for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder

Love it or loathe it? - The best 70% mortgage today

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons explains why this new mortgage from Woolwich is the best in the market for those with a 30% deposit

The top 20 mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan rounds the top 20 mortgage deals available on the market - whatever your deposit!

There won't be another housing crash

by Neil Faulkner | Neil Faulkner says buy property now.

Why mortgage fees are fair

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan gives you the lowdown on everything you need to know about mortgage fees...

The banks are ripping us off

by John Fitzsimons | It's getting cheaper for banks to borrow, but not for you and me. John Fitzsimons reveals how the banks are ripping us off.

Soapbox - Should we tax £1m properties?

by John Fitzsimons | Ed Bowsher and John Fitzsimons go head to head and debate whether the `mansion tax' is a good idea.

Soapbox - Sale and rent back

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons explains why new rules have done little to make sale and rent back safer for struggling home owners

Soapbox - Stamp duty

by Jane Baker | Jane Baker thinks stamp duty is in dire need of reform.

Buy a home without a deposit

by Jane Baker | If you're struggling to get on the property ladder, there is a way you can purchase a property without needing a hefty deposit.

Get ready for the housing crash part II

by Cliff D'Arcy | After the usual `spring bounce', what's next for property prices? Here are five reasons to fear the future...

Don't go for a two-year tracker mortgage deal!

by Neil Faulkner | We're being encouraged to take short-term trackers. If lenders want us on short-term trackers, doesn't that make them a little fishy?

Published in September 2009

Top tips for buy-to-let investors

by Tim Wilson | Tim Wilson, the head mortgage broker of lovemoney.com, reveals his top tips on how to pick the right buy-to-let mortgage lender.

Soapbox - getting through the mortgage maze

by Ed Bowsher | Ed Bowsher looks at how to get through the mortgage maze.

Why Vince Cable will kill the housing market

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons reckons the UK's most trusted politician is off his rocker with his `mansion tax' idea, which would cripple the housing market in the UK.

Don't be suckered into buying property

by Harvey Jones | Harvey Jones thinks the UK property market is a desperate old hag living off its glory years while demanding an unseemly price for its favours.

Home truths about house prices

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan looks in depth at all the recent data on house prices to get to the truth about the state of the UK property market.

The joys of renting

by Cliff D'Arcy | Although homeowners claim that renting is 'dead money', it can make perfect sense to rent. One ex-homeowner reveals all...

Love it or loathe it? - The cheapest mortgage around!

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons reviews the mortgage with the lowest interest rate available today!

Three vital steps every mortgage borrower needs to take

by Tim Wilson | If you're about to take out a new mortgage, you also need to take these three essential steps, says mortgage broker Tim Wilson.

Love it or loathe it? - The 1.99% mortgage!

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons looks at a 1.99% mortgage from HSBC that's making waves

Mortgage deals made easy

by Christina Jordan | Torn between going to a broker and finding a direct mortgage deal yourself? Christina Jordan has the answer.

How to...slash the cost of your mortgage payments

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons looks at how to shave years off your mortgage, and cut down just how much you fork out in interest

Homeowners: Maximise your savings

by Christina Jordan | Mortgage borrowers with savings can cut thousands off their payments. Christina Jordan rounds up the best fully flexible and offset mortgages.

Britain's rip-off mortgage rates

by Christina Jordan | The base rate is at a historic low, so why are mortgage rates still so high for many borrowers? Christina Jordan investigates.

The best mortgage deals for first-time buyers

by Christina Jordan | There's a lot of positive news out there for first-time buyers, but mortgages for borrowers with small deposits are still thin on the ground.

Property prices to stagnate in 2010

by Neil Faulkner | Find out where lovemoney.com readers think property prices are headed.

How to get the best buy-to-let deal

by Christina Jordan | Which lenders will accept the smallest deposit and who offers the keenest rates?

The best mortgage deals for all borrowers!

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordon rounds up the best mortgages whether you want a fix, tracker or discounted rate

My mate Callum's money dilemma

by Harvey Jones | How far would you go to save £250 a month? Harvey Jones needs your help to solve his friend's difficult dilemma.

Get a great price for your HIP

by Christina Jordan | With Home Information Pack prices varying wildly, we look at how to make sure you get a great deal.

Ditch your estate agent and save thousands!

by Christina Jordan | If you sell your home online you'll make a massive saving

How to...get out of negative equity

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons busts some myths about negative equity, and explains how best to get out of it

Why discount mortgage deals are better than tracker mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | If you want a variable mortgage deal, Christina Jordan reckons you should you go for a discount over a tracker at the moment. Find out why...

Why I hate high house prices

by Cliff D'Arcy | How were we duped into believing rising property prices are always a good thing? Here are seven reasons to hate high house prices...

What the future holds for landlords

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan takes a look at the latest figures and finds out what's going on in the private rented sector...

Homebuyers: Last chance to save £1,750!

by Jane Baker | If you're planning to buy a home, you can cut up to £1,750 off your costs by acting now.... but hurry up!

Why a long-term fixed mortgage deal can pay off

by Christina Jordan | Long-term fixed mortgage deals may not be cheap but they offer big benefits...

Pay off your credit card before your mortgage deal!

by Rachel Wait | Rachel Robson investigates whether you're better off putting your spare cash towards your mortgage deal or credit card debt...

The secret to lowering your current mortgage interest rate and monthly mortgage payments

by Christina Jordan | Should you switch or stay put if you're coming to the end of your mortgage deal? Christina Jordan has the answer.

Published in August 2009

Is there any hope for bad credit borrowers?

by Christina Jordan | We hunt out the extremely limited sub-prime mortgage options available

Love it or loathe it - My favourite mortgage

by Ed Bowsher | Ed Bowsher gives the lowdown on a great mortgage deal from Bank of China

The best fixed mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Many of us are reverting back to the trusty two-year fixed mortgage deal. So let's check out 12 of the best fixed mortgage deals...

Top tips for first-time landlords

by Jane Baker | If you're keen to invest in a buy-to-let property for the first time, don't jump in unless you know all the facts.

House prices will fall again!

by Christina Jordan | Find out why the housing market hasn't bottomed out just yet!

The never-ending costs of buying your first home

by Christina Jordan | There are the costs you expect, and then those you never even imagined, or budgeted for...

Five tips to help struggling buy-to-let investors

by Christina Jordan | Nobody is going to help landlords, so you need to help yourself!

Buy your first home in eight easy steps: Part Two!

by Tim Wilson | Check out this comprehensive eight-step guide for first-time buyers by a man who's done it all and seen it all: lovemoney.com head broker Tim Wilson. Here's part two: ensuring the buying process goes smoothly!

Buy your first home in eight easy steps

by Tim Wilson | Check out this comprehensive eight-step guide for first-time buyers by a man who's done it all and seen it all: lovemoney.com head broker Tim Wilson.

Soapbox - Equity release is NOT dodgy!

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons looks at the pros and cons of equity release and explains why it doesn't deserve its dodgy reputation

Twelve of the best variable mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | With the base rate predicted to remain low for the foreseeable future, trackers are now a better bet than fixed rates. Save money now with one of these 12 cheap tracker deals.

Farewell to the 0% mortgage rate

by Harvey Jones | It is soon time to bid a fond farewell to one of the strangest offspring of the credit crunch, the 0% mortgage. Welcome back to the real world!

Property market is back to normal

by Neil Faulkner | The property market had an extremely rare period of abnormality, but has now returned to its old self

How to buy a house abroad

by John Fitzsimons | The UK is far from alone in suffering house price falls over the past year, so if you're buying abroad you might be able to pick up a bargain!

Rent out your home as a buy-to-let

by Jane Baker | Find out how to let your property as a buy-to-let, without the expense of becoming a buy-to-let landlord.

Cheap Chinese mortgage deals arrive in the UK

by Cliff D'Arcy | Bank of China, the world's third-largest bank, has started lending cheap tracker mortgages to UK homebuyers. Cliff D'Arcy finds out if these deals are really as good as they seem...

12 of the best mortgage deals for first-time buyers

by Christina Jordan | Better mortgages for first-time buyers with small deposits could be on the way soon. But if you can't wait, Christina Jordan reveals the top deals available now.

It's a buy-to-let apocalypse

by Harvey Jones | Plunging house prices, falling rents, lack of mortgage finance and growing tenant defaults.... can anything save investors from the buy-to-let apocalypse?

House prices WILL increase this year

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons is confident house prices will be higher at the end of 2009 than they were at the start of the year. But is this a recovery - or just a dead cat bounce?

Published in July 2009

Love it or loathe it - New Lloyds mortgage falls flat

by Jane Baker | Lloyds have launched a new mortgage deal with stepped interest rates, but it's more costly than it seems

Hurry! The best mortgages are disappearing fast

by Jane Baker | These days the best mortgages are 'here today, gone tomorrow'. If you don't act quickly you could miss out.

Love it or loathe it? - Fix your mortgage at 2.49%, but hurry!

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons explains why you need to get your skates on to get hold of HSBC's Rate Matcher

Falling fixed mortgage rates just an illusion

by Christina Jordan | Some lenders have trimmed their mortgage rates in recent weeks, but don't get too excited...

How job losses affect house prices

by Cliff D'Arcy | We've just seen the largest quarterly jump in unemployment on record. Can house prices rise while job losses soar?

The danger of short-term mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Why a short-term mortgage deal could leave you stuck with your lender for much longer than you think.

Your two pence - The most dangerous mortgage

by Donna Werbner | As Nationwide starts offering 125% mortgages, Donna Werbner gets your two pence on these potentially dangerous mortgage deals.

Stop overpaying your mortgage deal!

by Alison Hunt | If you're steadily using surplus cash to overpay your mortgage, it's time to do your sums. You might well be better off saving your cash, instead!

Five steps to becoming a (great) landlord!

by John Fitzsimons | Tempted to get into buy-to-let? You need to know these five steps!

Love it or loathe it? - An expensive mortgage joke

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons reckons this new mortgage product is nothing more than an expensive joke. Borrowers beware!

DIY - The Five BIG Things You Must Do!

by Paul Taylor | If you are planning on a little bit of DIY, you can save some serious cash with these five steps!

When you should not get a fixed mortgage deal

by John Fitzsimons | Fixing your mortgage for the long term is widely seen as the smartest move in the current climate, but it's not right - or even possible - for everybody.

Millions of borrowers face unfair mortgage costs

by Cliff D'Arcy | The financial watchdog is investigating mortgage lenders for treating borrowers unfairly. But problems with penalty fines go much deeper...

The return of the 125% mortgage deal

by John Fitzsimons | Nationwide has started offering 125% mortgages again. But is this really the irresponsible move it appears to be? John Fitzsimons investigates.

Debate: The future of house prices

by Laura Howard | Laura Howard thinks we have reached the bottom of the housing market. But what do you think? Join the debate!

Your two pence - The housing market crash

by Donna Werbner | Is confidence returning to the housing market or has Britain's love affair with property finally turned sour? Donna Werbner asks for your two pence!

How to sell a problem property

by Rachel Wait | If your house has been on the market for several months and no one is showing any interest, these nine nifty tips might provide some inspiration...

Watch out for these extra mortgage costs!

by Christina Jordan | Valuation fees vary enormously between lenders and can make a big dent in your finances.

Soapbox - Fix your mortgage

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons argues you need to fix your mortgage for the long term, and do it quick.

Published in June 2009

Save £8,160 on your mortgage costs

by John Fitzsimons | When it comes to mortgages, it really is worth saving up for the biggest deposit you can afford. John Fitzsimons looks at just how much a small deposit will cost you in the long run.

Eleven cheap mini-makeovers for your home

by Serena Cowdy | Serena Cowdy shows you how to transform your home on a tight budget.

Four reasons to be pessimistic about house prices

by Christina Jordan | Just when you thought things were looking up in the housing market, four different reports this week suggest otherwise.

How to price your home

by Laura Howard | For many Britons, their home is not just their castle - it's their retirement plan too. But if you want to sell, you'll need to hit the right price...

Goodbye, cheap fixed mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Last week fixed-rate mortgage deals rose significantly, and they are set to go up further.

Don't be panicked by negative equity!

by John Fitzsimons | Ignore the hype - negative equity is not the end of the world! And there are things you can do to protect yourself against it.

Now's the time to buy property!

by Harvey Jones | Harvey Jones thinks now is the right time to get on the property ladder. But what do you think?

Help your kids buy a house today!

by John Fitzsimons | There are a number of obstacles stopping first-time buyers getting hold of their first property, but a helpful parent can make all the difference.

Buy-to-let landlords deserve our help

by John Fitzsimons | Buy-to-let landlords aren't greedy, money-grabbing villians - they're victims of an unfair system and they deserve our help, argues John Fitzsimons.

Fix your mortgage rate before it's too late!

by Jane Baker | Fixed rate mortgages are becoming more expensive. If you want to lock into a low rate, act now!

Love it or loathe it? - Saffron Building Society FTB mortgage

by Jane Baker | Jane Baker takes a look at a new mortgage from Saffron Building Society which helps first time buyers

The virtues of variable mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | If you've got the stomach for the ups and down of a variable rate, you could save yourself thousands on your mortgage right now.

Love it or loathe it? - Co-op three year tracker mortgage

by John Fitzsimons | John Fitzsimons explains why it pays to look beyond the headline rate of this product.

Get a fixed mortgage deal at 2.49%!

by John Fitzsimons | Fancy fixing your mortgage at 2.49%? It may sound like a great deal, but there are some big strings attached, as John Fitzsimons found out...

A false dawn for house prices

by Cliff D'Arcy | Two leading mortgage lenders have reported a May rebound in house prices. However, the downward slide is far from over...

Five money saving tips for homeowners

by Neil Faulkner | Here are five ways to save money on your mortgage and property.

Save a packet with an offset mortgage deal!

by John Fitzsimons | Offset mortgage deals offer you the chance to save time or money on your mortgage, but very few of us understand them. Here's what you need to know - and whether they are right for you.

The five golden rules of remortgaging

by Christina Jordan | Switch and save the smart way when you come to change your homeloan.

The house price crash is over

by Harvey Jones | Harvey Jones celebrated when the property market crashed. But now, he's been forced to accept that a recovery is around the corner.

Published in May 2009

Why you should pay mortgage costs upfront

by Jane Baker | Adding the product fee onto your mortgage may seem like a good idea, but it could cost you a lot more in the long run.

Protect yourself from mortgage rate hikes

by Christina Jordan | Why locking in for the long term is the smart move in the current market.

The best mortgages for first-time buyers

by Jane Baker | There's a dearth of mortgages for new borrowers with a small deposit, but one or two lenders are offering decent deals.

Five new property & mortgage tips

by Neil Faulkner | Read Neil Faulkner's top new tips for homeowners and wannabe owners.

Good riddance to bad landlords!

by Christina Jordan | Sweeping changes are afoot in the private rented sector for landlords, tenants and letting agents, as the Government takes a whip to rogue landlords.

Finally, good news about house prices!

by John Fitzsimons | Both house prices and house sales are up, according to new figures. Is this the long-awaited sign of recovery, or just a temporary bounce?

Why it is better to go to a mortgage broker

by John Fitzsimons | When it came to the biggest financial decision of his life, this lovemoney.com writer chose to go to a broker.

Hope at last for first-time buyers

by John Fitzsimons | Haven't got enough saved up to buy your first home? No problem, the Government will help you out - as long as your income is low enough...

Don't dismiss fee-free mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | Fee-free mortgages come in for some flak for costing more in the long run, but they can be a cheap and practical option for many.

Repossessions up 51% - but borrowers are fighting back

by Neil Faulkner | Repossessions are on the up, but data suggests that struggling homeowners and landlords are being treated better than in the past.

This is NOT the bottom of the housing crash

by John Fitzsimons | New buyer enquiries are up and there are green shoots of recovery for the housing market. But we're not at the bottom yet!

Good news for mortgage borrowers with 25% deposits

by Christina Jordan | Competition heated up this week for mortgage borrowers with 25% deposits - but what does this mean for everyone else?

How good is your mortgage lender?

by Jane Baker | Will your lender play fair when your current deal comes to an end, or rip you off by moving you onto a ridiculously high rate? Let's find out...

The nine best home improvements

by Christina Jordan | Which home improvements add the most value - and what's the best way to borrow to pay for them?

Buy-to-let investors are getting what they deserve

by Harvey Jones | Harvey Jones is delighted to see greedy, get-rich-quick landlords suffering. And boy, are they suffering...

Published in April 2009

Stop talking up the housing market!

by Harvey Jones | All this talk of a housing market recovery is not only stupid, it's dangerous, says Harvey Jones. Haven't we learned from our mistakes?

Help for struggling homeowners

by Alison Hunt | If you're panicking about how you'll meet your mortgage payments could the government's Mortgage Support Scheme help?

Cap your mortgage rate now!

by Christina Jordan | Why you should take out a capped mortgage deal before it's too late.

Don't be swayed by fee-free mortgage deals

by Jane Baker | You might think a fee-free mortgage deal sounds like a great way to cut your costs, but it doesn't always do the trick.

Nationwide criticisms misguided

by Neil Faulkner | Nationwide is again taking lots of criticism for treating new customers differently from old, but, again, the criticism is unfounded.

Why we should let house prices fall

by Harvey Jones | Harvey Jones explains why the Chancellor shouldn't attempt to reverse the trend of falling house prices.

Why your dog can't meet your monthly mortgage payments

by Rachel Wait | More and more of us are putting our pets' lives ahead of our own. Here's why you shouldn't.

How to make an extra £4,250 per year!

by Alison Hunt | If you're struggling to pay the bills and have a spare room, you could be making money from it. But there are things to watch out for - here's how to avoid some of the potential pitfalls.

How to tackle low equity in your home

by Christina Jordan | It's not just borrowers in negative equity that have cause for concern. Times are still tough for those with low positive equity.

Swap your home and save?

by Alison Hunt | With the housing market in turmoil and successful sales thin on the ground, why not swap your home instead?

Five things you need to do before you buy a house

by Emma Lunn | If you're thinking of taking the plunge and getting on the property ladder there are a number of things you need to do before you start the buying process.

Why you should choose a long-term fixed mortgage deal today!

by Jane Baker | Long-term fixed rate mortgages are pretty cheap right now, but are they a good choice for borrowers?

How to get the best mortgage deal

by Neil Faulkner | We all want the best mortgage deal. But where should you go to get it?

New mortgage deals for first-time buyers

by Christina Jordan | HSBC has allocated £1bn to a new 90% LTV mortgage range -- but they are not for everyone.

Protect your deposit in eight easy steps

by Rachel Wait | If you don't want your landlord to have an excuse for holding onto your deposit, follow these top tips.

Lies, damned lies and statistics

by Harvey Jones | Britain is either teetering on the brink of a savage recession to rival the 1930s, or finally beginning to recover. It all depends on which figures you believe....

Grab a fixed mortgage deal while they're cheap

by Jane Baker | Some fixed rate mortgage deals are offering super low rates, but act quickly because they may not be around for long.

Top mortgage deals

by Alison Hunt | If you've got a decent sized deposit or are looking to remortgage, here are some of the best products on the market.

You can get a great mortgage with a low (ish) deposit

by Christina Jordan | HSBC has cut the minimum deposit required on its best rates.

The best home for your money is your mortgage

by Christina Jordan | Should you use your savings to pay down your mortgage debt, or should you put your spare cash in a tax-free savings account?

Knock 75% off your rental costs!

by Serena Cowdy | Serena Cowdy investigates a way of living that could save you thousands of pounds a year.

Published in March 2009

Why house prices have further to fall

by Cliff D'Arcy | There is one simple reason why house prices need to drop: for decades, they have risen many times faster than wages.

Short and sweet mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | We look at two-year fixed rates vs two-year variable rates.

Millions set to fall into negative equity

by Christina Jordan | Two million mortgage borrowers will fall into negative equity this year, according to the FSA. Don't panic if you're one of them...

Mortgage rates may rise after failed gilt auction

by Ed Bowsher | The government's failure to sell all the available gilts at Wednesday's auction is worrying. We look at what it means for all of us - especially mortgage borrowers.

The best new mortgage deals

by Christina Jordan | What are the best new mortgage deals available? Christina Jordan compares the market-leaders.

Property swap shop!

by Rachel Wait | Whether you're looking for cheap holiday accommodation or a brand new property, home swapping could be right up your street (but there's no sign of Noel Edmonds)..

Tackling the threat of repossession

by Neil Faulkner | We're facing a greater threat than ever of repossession. Here's what you can do about it.

Red tape is good for landlords!

by Christina Jordan | Christina Jordan is in favour of plans to regulate the buy-to-let mortgage market. Find out why.

Has the Government gone insane?

by Christina Jordan | If the Government restricts mortgage lending to three times income, it could be the straw that finally breaks the housing market's back.

Get the cheapest mortgage deal

by Christina Jordan | If you want the lowest monthly repayments and you have equity in your property, variable rates still rule.

Will house prices ever recover?

by Harvey Jones | Commentators have been competing to produce ever gloomier property market prognostications for months, but now we have a clear winner.

How to improve your home on a budget

by Rachel Wait | Now is the perfect time to revamp your home without hurting your wallet.

Feel sorry for first-time buyers

by Christina Jordan | Buyer interest is up but it isn't translating into sales, as mortgage finance for borrowers with small deposits remains restricted.

Long-term fixed mortgage deals rule

by Christina Jordan | After 18 months of very appealing trackers, fixed rate mortgages are coming back to the fore.

Protect your monthly mortgage payments

by Jane Baker | Insurance policies which protect your income and mortgage payments have been slated in the past. But a new type of product is worth looking into...

How much can you borrow?

by Christina Jordan | Which lenders will offer the most when it comes to your mortgage?

A big danger for homeowners

by Cliff D'Arcy | With the base rate at 0.5% and heading for zero, mortgage interest rates have plunged. The threat comes when inflation returns and rates have to rise again...

Sell your home in seven steps

by Jane Baker | Follow these top tips on how to sell your home successfully in a buyer's market.

House prices will carry on falling

by Ed Bowsher | New data from Halifax suggests that house prices have further to fall.

Fixed mortgage deals get even cheaper

by Christina Jordan | Lenders have launched over a dozen new fixed rate mortgages in the last seven days.

The top lifetime mortgage deals

by Neil Faulkner | We show you the top lifetime mortgage deals, both fixed and tracker, and give you some tips on mortgage strategy over the next few years.

What to do if you've got a small deposit

by Jane Baker | Jane Baker looks at the deals on offer to mortgage borrowers with small deposits.

Published in February 2009

A place for 100% mortgage deals?

by Christina Jordan | The Prime Minister wants to ban 100%-plus mortgages, but is he right?

The four horsemen of the housing apocalypse

by Cliff D'Arcy | We reveal the `four Ds' of housing disaster -- and how to avoid them!

House price falls pick up speed

by Ed Bowsher | House prices declined by 1.8% in February, and further falls look likely.

Top long-term fixed mortgage deals

by Neil Faulkner | Take a look at the best seven-year, and ten-year fixed mortgage deals available.

The biggest financial u-turn ever!

by Donna Ferguson | It's good news for borrowers and bad news for taxpayers as Northern Rock borrows an extra £10 billion and starts lending again.

Is it time to ditch the fix?

by Emma Lunn | Should borrowers with long-term fixed mortgages ditch their deals?

Can't meet your monthly mortgage payments? Don't panic

by Christina Jordan | Not everyone is benefitting from lower rates, and if you're struggling to meet your monthly mortgage payments there are positive steps you can take

Why tracker mortgages deals aren't as cheap as you think

by Jane Baker | Tracker mortgages might seem like a good idea today, but they could become a whole lot more expensive tomorrow.

New build mortgage deals are still restricted

by Christina Jordan | There is a market for new build properties as prices fall, but can borrowers easily secure a mortgage?

Falling House Prices Bring Out Potential Buyers

by Ed Bowsher | Lower house prices have triggered an increase in `new buyer enquiries' for homes. But that doesn't mean the property market has hit bottom.

Is it time to get a fixed mortgage deal?

by Christina Jordan | With the Base Rate at an all-time low is now a good time to fix your mortgage rate?

Sellers Need To Reduce Their Prices

by Neil Faulkner | If you're not willing to cut your price dramatically, you'd better be able to rent out your property or sit out the fall in the market.

Are There Any Bad Credit Mortgages Left?

by Christina Jordan | It is very hard to get a mortgage if you have a history of financial problems -- but it is possible

House Prices Rise Again - Maybe

by Ed Bowsher | A survey from Halifax suggests that house prices rose in January, but it's probably just a blip.

Is Woolwich's Lowest Ever Fixed-Rate Mortgage Any Good?

by Emma Lunn | Woolwich has launched a new fixed-rate mortgage at 2.29%. Should you sign up?

Self-Employed Borrowers: Go Away!

by Christina Jordan | HBOS brands have withdrawn from self-cert and sub-prime mortgage lending and tightened all new build criteria.

How do offset mortgage rates compare?

by Neil Faulkner | We compare the best offset mortgage rate to other rates.

Published in January 2009

The Best Strategy For Remortgaging

by Christina Jordan | Should you bother switching your homeloan? Or is apathy the best strategy right now?

When You Should Switch Your Mortgage Early

by Jane Baker | If you're regretting your decision to go for a fixed rate mortgage, find out if there's anything you can do about it here.

The Return Of First-Time Buyers

by Christina Jordan | Are wannabe first-time buyers creeping back? Christina Jordan explains why she is beginning to think now is a good time to buy.

Is Getting A Lodger A Good Idea?

by Emma Lunn | If you're struggling to pay your mortgage or you have lost your job, how about getting a lodger?

The Time To Buy A Bigger Property Is Now

by Rachel Wait | If you're thinking about trading up to a home with two or three bedrooms, things are looking good......

How Britons Have Lost Their Place In The Sun

by Harvey Jones | How much would you bet on a recovery in the pound?

Get What You Want From Your Tenants

by Neil Faulkner | Sometimes you just can't know how bad a tenant can be till he happens to you, but you can improve your odds of having the pleasure of a good customer - and a paying one - in an economic downturn.

Buy--to-let mortgage rates in 2009

by Christina Jordan | How's the buy-to-let mortgage market shaping up in 2009?

Mortgage rates with strings attached

by Christina Jordan | If you get one of these current accounts, you could get access to better mortgage deals. But is it worth it?

Pay Off Your Mortgage 9 Years Early

by Bruce Jackson | Tumbling mortgage rates means more money in the pocket of homeowners. Rather than spending it on a new plasma TV, you're much better off paying off your debts, including your house.

In search of the 0% mortgage rate

by Harvey Jones | Will your mortgage rate ever fall as low as 0%?

Mortgage Repossessions Double!

by Cliff D'Arcy | The latest data show that house seizures rose by a whopping 92% in the third quarter of 2008. However, these seven safety-nets may save some homeowners...

Give Yourself The Mother Of All Pay Rises

by Bruce Jackson | With the base rate at just 1.5%, thousands of mortgage holders are suddenly finding themselves flush with cash. The feel good factor will return.

10 Top Mortgage Deals

by Christina Jordan | Credit crunch? What credit crunch? Here are five tempting variable rates and five fabulous fixed rate mortgage deals.

Remortgage Early Without Penalties!

by Christina Jordan | Nationalised mortgage lender Bradford & Bingley is waiving penalties for Bradford & Bingley and Mortgage Express borrowers who want to leave.

Why House Prices Will Fall This Year

by Cliff D'Arcy | I think house prices are going to continue falling for the foreseeable future. Here's why.

Protect Yourself From This Post-Xmas Catastrophe!

by Serena Cowdy | Why the gifts you received at Christmas may be at risk...

Strange Times For Mortgage Borrowers

by Neil Faulkner | Should you remortgage now, or wait until the credit crunch is over? Neil Faulkner has conducted an experiment to find out.

How The Base Rate Will Affect Your Mortgage

by Christina Jordan | What does the latest rate decision mean for mortgage borrowers?

Top Tips For Successful Landlords

by Alison Hunt | With record numbers of rental properties flooding the market, we look at what you need to do to let your property, and what can help your chances of success.

Nationwide Shows Its Ugly Side

by Jane Baker | Find out why Jane Baker is critical of Nationwide.

A Horrible Year For House Prices

by Cliff D'Arcy | Last year saw the largest drop in house prices in history, according to the latest data from Nationwide BS. However, there's more to come...