It’s a new year, and there’s no better time to make a new set of resolutions to see you through 2019. Each of us have our own individual resolutions, from being healthier to travelling more, but there is one resolution we can all share – getting our finances into shape. Now is the perfect month…
How to avoid a financial hangover this Christmas
With Christmas just around the corner, the season to be jolly is upon us. Whether you’re a festive fiend or little bit of a scrooge, there is no getting away from it… Christmas costs money. If you’re anything like me, you make your Christmas budget, and then promptly blow it. ‘It’s Christmas’, we say, ‘let’s…
We need to be teaching kids about money, and here’s why
I saw this tweet earlier in the week and it really struck a chord with me: ’I left school not knowing about taxes, credit cards, pensions or savings, but at least I got taught Pythagoras Theorem.’ Like many others, I left education having never had a single lesson or conversation about managing money or financial…
First Time Buyer Schemes: Are they really any good?
It’s no secret that getting a foot on the property ladder is harder than ever. With rising house prices and average monthly rents at £937, it can often be incredibly hard to raise the £20,000+ now needed for some deposits. As tough as the situation is, it’s important to remain positive and keep trying. There…
How to be a savvy renter
Over five million households in the UK are in private rented accommodation and, with the increasing number of people renting their homes, it shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you are a seasoned renter or are new to the world of renting, it’s really important to make sure you know your rights as a…
How to keep financially afloat on maternity leave
Maternity leave is full of highs and lows. A beautiful baby of your very own and the joy of a new little family, coupled with sleepless nights, smelly nappies, and the one thing no-one ever seems to discuss – a drastic change in your financial situation! I had tried to prepare for most things having…
Oh hey little one! Financially planning for a baby
It’s been a while since my last blog post, in what has been a rollercoaster few months. That rollercoaster is called The Baby, and sweet Phoebe arrived safely in March. And, as with any new baby, has created carnage and joy in equal measures! Money was high on my agenda early on in my pregnancy.…
The end of letting fees?
It’s not often you read good news in the world of finance, but I was recently surprised and delighted to read that the huge fees imposed on tenants to rent a property may soon be a thing of the past. According to Government proposals published on Wednesday Nov 1, letting agents and landlords could face…
Is there really any help for first time buyers?
Getting on the property ladder is a priority for me right now. As I tread the hard road to home ownership, I can’t help but wonder why it’s so difficult now compared with our parents’ generation. According to research by Yorkshire Building Society, one in two people aged 35-40 who are not homeowners think it’s unlikely,…
Let’s talk about new car tax
Buying a brand new car is possibly one of the most expensive purchases you’ll make. It requires a lot of leg work, planning, and research. Economy, aesthetics, performance, size… there’s lots to consider. I’ve had my car for four years, and my little Toyota Aygo was perfect for when I was a nervy new driver –…