Dwelling
Budget 2024 - Stamp Duty - Multiple Dwelling Relief
Today's budget announced a change to Stamp Duty Land Tax. To be clear, this applies only to England /Wales and does not affect Scotland.
Lee Wisener
Owner of this site and propertyresearch.uk
Non Dom
Budget 2024 - Stamp Duty - Non Dom Status
In today's budget, the government has changed the tax rules for those considered non-domiciled in the UK. Why is this relevant to mortgages?
Renting
Cost of renting in Scotland increasing faster than London
Recent data from Zoopla reveals the cost of renting in the UK today, and it's not great news for Scotland. Glasgow has been hit the hardest in the UK with Edinburgh not far behind.
Interest Only
Are interest only mortgages still a reasonable option?
Are interest only mortgages still available and are they a sensible option for borrowers? The media's attention to interest-only mortgages in recent years would suggest not. They are still available and may be suitable depending on borrower circumstances.
Benefits
Will my benefits count towards income for a mortgage?
A question I have received previously asks whether benefits can count towards mortgage affordability calculations. The simple answer is yes, they can; the long answer is below.
Credit Search
Rejected due to credit search, lender refuses to explain why
A visitor recently had a mortgage declined due to the results of a credit search; she was confused as agencies searched showed nothing, and the lender refused to share any information.
Affordability
How to beat the mortgage affordability test!
How do you beat the mortgage affordability test? That is, if you couldn't get a mortgage by telling the truth, what are your options? Ok, let's talk about it.
Interest
Interest Rates Held again at 5.25%
Interest rates have been held at 5.25% again; this is the 5th time rates have been steady at this level, having peaked in August 2023. There may be some good news on the horizon though.
Comments
New Comments System
I have added a new comments system to the website for those who want to reply to my articles, and it's really simple to use.
Retirement
New research suggests many won't retire until 72
Research by Canada Life suggests many will work longer due to a lack of pension planning and the cost of living crisis. More support from employers is also required for those working longer.
Cap
Scottish Rent Cap Update
A rent cap has been in place for Scotland since 2022. It was temporary to assist tenants during the cost of living crisis. Currently, the cap ends in March 2024. The Scottish government has announced a review ahead of this.
Tax
Scottish Income Tax Changes in April 2024
The pain of higher taxes is due to hit Scotland in April 2024, changes in the tax bands as well as a new band will see Scotland's work force squeezed even more than the rest of the UK.