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Here is the index page for our Viewpoints feature section.
Each week we'll be adding at least one new feature. The
most recently updated section will always be at the top
of this page.
8 reasons to be excited about Brazil 06.09.2008
TheMoveChannel.com takes a look at why Brazil is currently one of the world’s most exciting destinations for international property investors...
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 3: Illegal Property Flipping 13.06.2008
In its third special feature on the world's most prevalent real estate scams, TheMoveChannel.com examines the growing menace of illegal property flipping.
Cyprus Reunification - The Story So Far 22.05.2008
With vital reunification talks scheduled to take place between Northern and Southern Cyprus in June 2008, TheMoveChannel.com provides an overview of the conflict and looks at the positive steps being taken to unite the Island.
INVESTMENT PROPERTY WATCH: May 2008 15.05.2008
Real estate in far-flung destinations has once again dominated TheMoveChannel.com’s monthly top 10 list of hot investment properties…
Top of the Props: The rise and rise of the UAE! 13.05.2008
Interest in the United Arab Emirates from visitors to TheMoveChannel.com has soared over the last month, with the progressive federation breaking into the top ten of our ‘Top of the Props’ chart for the first time…
Taxing the Gain 30.04.2008
Capital Gains Tax was reformed in the latest Budget. We consider whether it’s going to help or hinder the buy-to-let investor.
Maximising Property Marketing Efficiency 24.04.2008
TheMoveChannel.com's first Partner Marketing Survey reveals the best way for agents and developers to advertise their properties to ensure maximum Return on Investment...
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 2: Cyprus IPT Scam 17.04.2008
In the second special feature in TheMoveChannel.com’s series on real estate scams, we take a look at an Immovable Property Tax scam that is on the rise in Cyprus, an otherwise entirely safe property investment destination. **UPDATED!**
INVESTMENT PROPERTY WATCH - April 2008 13.04.2008
Real estate in far-flung destinations proved to be massively popular again in March on TheMoveChannel.com, with some unusual locations dominating the top 10 list of hot investment properties on the site...
TOP OF THE PROPS: USA powers into the top 3! 31.03.2008
In a suprising twist to this month's chart, the USA has muscled its way into the top 3 of our ‘Top of the Props’ index for the very first time...
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 1: Foreclosure Scams 20.03.2008
Real Estate fraud is booming like never before, and to highlight this negative trend, the TheMoveChannel.com is publishing a series of special features highlighting the world's most prevalent real estate scams.
INVESTMENT PROPERTY WATCH: March 2008 17.03.2008
Real estate in exotic locations was hugely popular in February on TheMoveChannel.com, with far-flung destinations dominating the property portal's top 10 list of hot investments...
Top of the Props: Booming Brazil 'on top of the world' 13.03.2008
Interest in Brazil from visitors to TheMoveChannel.com has soared over the last month, with the world’s biggest emerging market powering its way into the top 5 of our ‘Top of the Props’ chart for the first time…
INVESTMENT PROPERTY WATCH – FEBRUARY 2008 14.02.2008
Real estate in emerging locations proved to be massively popular again in January on TheMoveChannel.com, with far-flung destinations dominating the top 10 list of hot investment properties on the site...
Top of the Props: Portugal 'on the crest of a wave' 13.02.2008
Interest in Portugal from visitors to TheMoveChannel.com soared over the last month, with the stunning Iberian paradise shooting into the top 10 as the highest climber in our ‘Top of the Props’ chart for January…
France tops TMC's Annual Enquiries Index for 2007 31.01.2008
Property in established overseas markets was massively popular with visitors to the TheMoveChannel.com in 2007, with Europe’s ‘old masters’ dominating our annual enquiries index...
Investment Property Watch: January 2008 24.01.2008
Prime real estate in emerging locations was the flavor of the month in December on TheMoveChannel.com, with some unusual destinations dominating the top 10 list of hot investment properties on the site.
Bulgaria is a 'Top of the Props' World Champion! 14.01.2008
Bulgaria, The 'Land of the Roses', has consolidated its consistently strong position in our ‘Top of the Props’ chart for December...
2007: A review of global housing markets 01.01.2008
It was an interesting year for housing markets across the globe, with the credit crunch negatively impacting many markets toward the end of the year. It wasn’t all doom and gloom though…
The truth about the 'negative' property market 13.12.2007
Speculation is rife about a looming crisis in the property market, and the continued negativity is running the risk of turning into a self-fulfilling prophecy...
Middle East BTL - A golden opportunity? 29.11.2007
Housing markets in the Middle East are rapidly expanding, creating new opportunities for property investors deterred by the ongoing slowdown in Europe and the USA...
Do overseas investors need a reality check? 22.11.2007
Oveseas investors sometimes have hazy ideas about how much they’ll earn on their rental property abroad. Critical variables, such as income tax on rent, vary enormously from one country to another….
The ‘magical movie paradise’ of New Zealand 13.11.2007
Some know it as Middle Earth, Narnia or King Kong’s lost island but for others, New Zealand is a magical place to buy property...
Portugal's Silver Coast is pure gold 25.10.2007
Portugal's Atlantic coast has beautiful beaches, traditional townscapes and authentic food - and it's only half the price of the Algarve…
Residential property: Is it now a 'buyers market'? 17.10.2007
Conflicting daily reports continue to show UK housing market growth slowing/ accelerating/ freezing in a seemingly semi-random cycle. But is this all just meaningless spin...?
Bulgaria investors 'hit the slopes' 10.10.2007
The seemingly unstoppable rise of Bulgaria’s winter sports appeal continues apace, but is the rise actually sustainable and profitable for prospective investors...?
Pioneering Brits go 'crazy for Canada' 20.09.2007
The draw of lakes, beaches, forests and great skiing, plus the cosmopolitan chic of Vancouver, is luring British buyers to western Canada…
'Paradise found' in Malta and Cyprus 31.08.2007
The imminent adoption of the Euro is one of many reasons property investors are looking to the islands of Malta and Cyprus…
Transaction costs: A global rip-off? 29.08.2007
The rocketing cost of buying and selling residential property abroad is a significant negative factor for overseas investors…
'Buyer Beware' in 'unregulated' Mexico? 23.08.2007
Can foreigners really own property in Mexico? This is a complicated question, but potential investors will be happy to know the answer is relatively straightforward...
Holiday homes: A world of bargains 08.08.2007
In many parts of Britain, £200,000 will buy you a decent flat. But take that money on your travels and the world is your oyster…
A quick guide to retiring abroad 24.07.2007
Careful planning is essential if you are one of the many Brits intending to retire abroad…
World property crash: Hype or fate? 19.07.2007
There has been negative hype and exaggeration about property investment in the media for years. The question here is: do we believe all the hype...?
Argentina: A guide to buying property 12.07.2007
Buying property in Argentina can be a protracted process, especially for overseas investors with limited knowledge of how the system works...
Bulgarian property: A false dawn…? 06.07.2007
A leading property analyst takes a look at the Bulgarian real estate market six months on from EU accession from his base in Sofia and tells investors to “be selective”…
India’s remarkable property growth 27.06.2007
India is undergoing a period of incredible economic growth, the positive effects of which can be seen in all aspects of the burgeoning property market...
In search of the ‘real’ Italy 21.06.2007
Let the tourists keep Tuscany. Calabria's coastline is among the most unspoilt - and affordable - in Europe, whilst wild beaches, fabulous vineyards and beautiful bargain homes abound in Abruzzo…
Discover Greece’s tantalising secrets 14.06.2007
Keen to keep tourists and investors pouring into the country, Greece has made a concerted effort to improve its infrastructure and amenities…
How to move house without breaking the bank 30.05.2007
Moving house doesn't need to be one of life's most stressful and expensive activities...
Overseas Agents: How to avoid getting ripped-off 15.05.2007
Choosing a good overseas agent is essential for investors hoping to buy property abroad…
Housing boom a haven for ‘flipping’ fraudsters 09.05.2007
Where there is money to be made, there's a strong chance that there is also money to be stolen. In this regard, the housing market is no exception...
Budget Bargains: What can I buy for £50k? 03.05.2007
If you're feeling adventurous, you can find cheap property abroad with good potential returns…
Bargain hunting in Italy's forgotten villages 25.04.2007
Abandoned towns across Italy's hilltops are being rescued to become affordable - and ancient - holiday homes…
Home Information Packs: What you need to know 11.04.2007
Put your home up for sale from 1 June and you'll need a Home Information Pack. The following article explains what they are and how they'll affect both buyers and sellers…
Q&A: Dealing with estate agents 04.04.2007
Dealing with estate agents can be an intimidating experience for the first-time buyer. BBC News offers a brief guide to what rights homebuyers have in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Sealed bids unravelled 29.03.2007
Sealed bids are becoming the norm in London where there are 100 buyers per property, but can sometimes be found elsewhere in the country. All you need to know about sealed bids - and why it can help both residential property buyers and sellers can be found here…
Buying a house with a stranger 21.03.2007
A fresh approach to sharing that all-important first home is making the slightly stigmatised idea exciting again. But would you benefit from buying with a stranger or could it all end in tears?
Why Invest In Real Estate In The Northeast Of Brazil State Of Ceara 15.03.2007
Worldwide property investors are now turning their attention to Brazil as it fast becomes a leader in the field of emerging markets. Returns on investment are considered to be excellent and investors are increasingly aware of the high growth potential that Brazil offers as a stable though fresh, new investment market.
Financial and tax implications of investing in property for the children 29.11.2006
Helping your children by providing a student property, perhaps with a view to helping them on to the property ladder sounds a good plan but on closer inspection is fraught with problems. A legal expert suggests a solution…
Get a qualified, independent professional help when buying abroad 22.11.2006
Investors thinking of purchasing property in Spain are being urged to seek advice from experts before committing to a transaction…
House prices surge toward a ‘tipping point’ 14.11.2006
Is the housing market set to wobble again or are we reaching a point of no return precipitating a crash? One independent market reviewer thinks it’s time to take a good look…
Investing in overseas property - part two 09.11.2006
This week our featured article is about investing in property overseas and is from guest contributor Dan Graham…
Investing in overseas property 09.11.2006
This week our featured article is about investing in property overseas and is from guest contributor Dan Graham…
Bulgarian accession to the EU and the property market 27.09.2006
With the news this week that Bulgaria and Romania are on the verge of becoming EU members, what will be the effects of Bulgarian accession to the EU on the property market and how might this affect the property investor?
Buying in Bulgaria – don’t make basic errors 20.09.2006
Interested in buying in Bulgaria? A UK-based investment advisory company and property developer has issued a buyers’ guide to would-be investors in property there…
The rise and rise of the ballistic Baltics 31.08.2006
Over the last 12 months there have been many press reports of meteoric rates of growth in the three Baltic states - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. So what's all the fuss about?!
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
Handy tips for first-time buyers 21.03.2006
There’s no doubt many first-time buyers are struggling to get on to that all-important first rung of the housing ladder. So what are the tips a top lender is ready to give to the first-time buyer?
Pick of the PCISs 02.02.2006
After last week's feature on the Government's U-turn over property in SIPPs, this week we look at some alternative Property Collective Investment Schemes (PCISs).
Look out for septic tanks and cesspools 17.01.2006
There you are, you’ve moved into this idyllic cottage in the countryside and friends or neighbours are round for drinks, the loo’s flushed, and bingo, instead of draining away freely it simply fills and overflows…
Buying off-plan - attractions and pitfalls 06.12.2005
Nothing suitable on the market right now? Unsure about which direction prices will go? Perhaps buying off-plan would be a hassle-free option....
Will HIPs bring about a market change? You bet! 22.11.2005
Momentous changes for the housing market that were just bubbling on the sidelines last week are set to explode now that the HIPs go-live date has been announced…
Affordability lending 18.10.2005
Home buyers stand to benefit from a more tailored approach to mortgage lending…
Thinking of buying by auction? 11.10.2005
Buying a property by auction has several attractions - not least the certainty that when the hammer falls the deal is done - but be sure you do your homework thoroughly…
What defects are there in your new home? 14.09.2005
Is it worth ‘snagging’ your new home? With a recent report showing new homes - even those passed by the NHBC - have an average of 80 defects per property, it has to be…
Shared Ownership 19.07.2005
For many, being able to afford a property means looking at shared ownership. This week we look at what’s involved with shared ownership with a Housing Association or Housing Trust…
What's the cost of furnishing a new home? 03.05.2005
With the total cost of furnishing a new property reaching £8,000, turning your new house into a proper home could leave your finances seriously dented...
Buying a house for the first time? 12.04.2005
How do you go about looking for a property? If this is your first time buying property you may find it useful to know what to do when you go to view one…
A guided tour to buying property in Spain 15.03.2005
Is it easy to buy in Spain? What pitfalls are there to watch out for? And what is the best way to deal with a mortgage? These and a few lighter subjects are covered here…
Halifax first-time buyer annual review 08.02.2005
Beneath the headline-grabbing '9 out of 10 towns unaffordable to first-time buyers' there may be some light at the end of the tunnel…
Property auctions - the quick way to buy a home 17.08.2004
Buying at auction doesn’t necessarily mean bagging a bargain. But it is speedy, and can reduce the protracted nail-biting to manageable periods…
Tips to make buying a holiday home pleasurable 20.07.2004
There is enormous pleasure to be gained from buying a holiday home abroad but you need to avoid some of the pitfalls…
The Lowdown On Leaseback Property Investments 09.06.2004
The leaseback section on the site is proving extremely popular - here is a rundown of some leaseback facts, figures and information…
Do your research before buying property abroad 04.05.2004
There is no substitute for front-end research when making sure you are looking for the kind of property that suits your needs. And when looking for a foreign home it is essential…
TheMoveChannel - Personal Property Search Service 05.03.2004
We take a look at our personal property search service in a little more details..
Thinking of buying an old building? 13.01.2004
Thinking of buying an old building? Don’t get carried a way by the appeal of somewhere special until you have unlocked some of the responsibilities about it’s care..
Strategies for increasing the long-term value of property 25.11.2003
For the average homeowner or buyer the outlook on house prices has been towards short-term gain but as prices stabilise the view should be more towards longer-term strategies to make the most of our investment...
Stamp duty and exemption zones 03.06.2003
Stamp duty – that horrid and ancient tax that we have to pay when we buy or lease a home. What is it, how is it calculated, and what are the exemption zones
The State of the September Market 20.09.2002
A number of professionals and experts give their comments on the September market and how they expect the rest of the year to pan out..
The Great British Property Ladder 13.09.2002
We all talk about the property ladder but what does it actually mean - and does it actually exist
Home surveys explained by the professionals 30.08.2002
Buying a home is the most expensive financial transaction most people ever make, and yet many will take this important step without asking the basic question - 'Is this property sound?
Living in a Leasehold 31.05.2002
The government may have recently passed new legislation that will eventually see commonhold become the tenure of choice in many UK residential properties, but leasehold is still the only choice for many people buying a flat or some other home in a building with common parts..
Times are tough for first time buyers... 10.05.2002
New research published this week by the Halifax has shown just why there is so much furore surrounding the difficulty that young buyers have in getting on the housing ladder..
My home has got that sinking feeling... 03.05.2002
Subsidence is a word that strikes fear into homeowners up and down the land. And with good reason. We give you the low down on the problem..
New homes are not always shiny and nice 19.04.2002
Buying a brand new property does not guarantee that your new home will be free of structural problems, but did you know that you could be to blame for many of the things that go wrong
'Mini Suite' - dream homes for key workers 28.02.2002
The stresses and strains of trying to get on the housing ladder in those areas with the most severe cheap homes crisis could soon be alleviated thanks to a new modular housing solution that was launched this week at the Ideal Homes exhibition...
Severe supply shortage shown by survey 22.02.2002
The latest Home survey from the Bradford & Bingley shows that cautious vendors are contributing to a supply side drought, causing a log jam amongst buyers and putting upwards pressure on property prices..
Buying non-standard properties 09.11.2001
In an age where many people are seeking to express their own individuality, mainstream lenders are turning away increasing numbers of home buyers because they want to purchase properties don't meet with the underwriter's approval..
The East gets connected 19.10.2001
This week we don our yellow plastic trainspotting macs and take a look at the development of the East London Underground line...
Affordability: Stretched but stable 07.09.2001
Cheltenham and Gloucester has released its latest affordability index, which looks at several factors that help build an alternative picture of the regional housing markets..
Picking property hotspots 17.08.2001
A special feature on how exactly you can predict which areas are going to be hot, and which are not..
Taxing the Gain 30.04.2008
Capital Gains Tax was reformed in the latest Budget. We consider whether it’s going to help or hinder the buy-to-let investor.
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 2: Cyprus IPT Scam 17.04.2008
In the second special feature in TheMoveChannel.com’s series on real estate scams, we take a look at an Immovable Property Tax scam that is on the rise in Cyprus, an otherwise entirely safe property investment destination. **UPDATED!**
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 1: Foreclosure Scams 20.03.2008
Real Estate fraud is booming like never before, and to highlight this negative trend, the TheMoveChannel.com is publishing a series of special features highlighting the world's most prevalent real estate scams.
Wind turbines: Credible or cobblers? 25.09.2007
Is it time for Brits to consider splashing out on a home turbine in order to reap the benefits of lower fuel bills...?
World property crash: Hype or fate? 19.07.2007
There has been negative hype and exaggeration about property investment in the media for years. The question here is: do we believe all the hype...?
Bulgarian property: A false dawn…? 06.07.2007
A leading property analyst takes a look at the Bulgarian real estate market six months on from EU accession from his base in Sofia and tells investors to “be selective”…
India’s remarkable property growth 27.06.2007
India is undergoing a period of incredible economic growth, the positive effects of which can be seen in all aspects of the burgeoning property market...
Why Invest In Real Estate In The Northeast Of Brazil State Of Ceara 15.03.2007
Worldwide property investors are now turning their attention to Brazil as it fast becomes a leader in the field of emerging markets. Returns on investment are considered to be excellent and investors are increasingly aware of the high growth potential that Brazil offers as a stable though fresh, new investment market.
Portuguese Golf goes Norte 25.01.2007
Portuguese golf already boasts a world-beating reputation, especially in the Algarve region. Now, high quality courses are also springing up in the north, presenting canny investors with an opportunity to benefit from the Costa Verde’s cheaper property prices, cultural riches and rising visitor numbers.
House prices surge toward a ‘tipping point’ 14.11.2006
Is the housing market set to wobble again or are we reaching a point of no return precipitating a crash? One independent market reviewer thinks it’s time to take a good look…
The rise and rise of the ballistic Baltics 31.08.2006
Over the last 12 months there have been many press reports of meteoric rates of growth in the three Baltic states - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. So what's all the fuss about?!
How do homes match up to gold and silver? 03.05.2006
Annual asset price for silver in April 2006 was running at 72%. With gold and silver reaching record highs and dramatically out-performing homes in growth terms, does this mean staple investment in property has run its course?
Pick of the PCISs 02.02.2006
After last week's feature on the Government's U-turn over property in SIPPs, this week we look at some alternative Property Collective Investment Schemes (PCISs).
A sinking SIPP is not necessarily bad news... 26.01.2006
Gordon Brown's dramatic u-turn on SIPPS hit many savers and vendors who had already spent considerable time and capital ahead of SIPPs setting sail. But what does this development mean for people who only got as far as thinking of getting on board?
Your house is threatening the environment 05.10.2005
A satellite in space picks up waste heat leaking from your home and later you receive a bill for harming the environment. Future fancy - or the way of things to come? Either way, there are things you can do to your house now to protect the environment…
Rate rise: what does it mean for homeowners? 07.11.2003
In the end of an era, the Bank of England confirmed what millions of homeowners had feared, when it announced that the interest rate would rise from the historically low 3.5 percent to 3.75 percent...
IPD Residential Investment Index 13.05.2003
The UK housing market performance showed a strong performance last year as measured by the relatively new and innovative IPD Residential Investment Index..
Market outlook for 2003 13.12.2002
Hamptons International give their view of what the property market will hold in prospect for 2003..
Residential Property Market: August 2002 06.09.2002
The August resigential property market report from Hamptons International..
Residential Property Market: July 2002 09.08.2002
This week we have pleasure in introducing the latest of the recently launched property market reports from Hamptons International..
UK House Price Statistics Roundup 05.07.2002
It's been reporting time again this week for many of the main purveyors of house price information in the UK - so this week we bring you a roundup of the four different reports that have recently been published
UK House Price Statistics & The Different Indices 14.02.2002
Hopefully, this analysis of the different house prices reports and indexes will provide a useful guide to the different sets of data available as well as helping you understand why they can produce such different sets of results..
Halifax Regional Housing Review 11.01.2002
A look at Halifax's in depth review and analysis of the regional housing markets in the final quarter of 2001
Looking back, looking forwards... 21.12.2001
Well, another year has passed and it has been quite a rollercoaster as far as the property market is concerned, so with the help of the Bradford & Bingley annual review of the housing market, we take a look back and a look forwards as well
RICS Housing market review 23.11.2001
Read an edited version of the RICS Housing Market Survey, released this week, or if you would prefer download the entire report in PDF version..
Why the market won't crash 05.10.2001
Following the first tentative signs that it is slowing down, we give our reasons why we feel the property market will continue to defy the odds and avoid any sort of major slump....
Surprise, surprise...It's a quarter point cut 03.08.2001
The decision by the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee to cut a quarter point from its base interest rate came as quite a shock, so we look into what prompted the decision...
Are house prices really about to collapse? 25.05.2001
The doom mongers were out in force for the housing market this week, but we reflect on just how real the risks are that collapse could be just around the corner
Rate cut reaction 09.02.2001
The Bank of England cut the base rate by a quarter-point to 5.75 per cent. However, not everyone was as pleased as they might have been..
Interest rates and the housing market - Spring 2001 12.01.2001
As we predicted, the MPC did indeed maintain interest rates at 6%. We look at some of the reasons that may have contributed to the 'non-decision', hear the views of some of those campaigning for a rate reduction and look at some of the predictions for what will happen to the economy and the housing market over the coming months.
Rural development or urban myth? 08.12.2000
We take a quick look at the rural white paper and ask whether rural development is really an urban myth
Urban White Paper: Special Report. 17.11.2000
After the unveiling of the report by DETR Minister John Prescott, we get the lowdown on what the proposals are and hear the reaction to the paper from various sources.
Market Signals. 14.09.2000
A set of figures released at the start of the September by the Land Registry seemed to contradict much of what we have been reading in recent months about house prices falling by record amounts. In this first Viewpoint article, we take a look at what's been going on and try to work out what direction the market is going to take next
Real Estate Fraud Series – No 1: Foreclosure Scams 20.03.2008
Real Estate fraud is booming like never before, and to highlight this negative trend, the TheMoveChannel.com is publishing a series of special features highlighting the world's most prevalent real estate scams.
Wind turbines: Credible or cobblers? 25.09.2007
Is it time for Brits to consider splashing out on a home turbine in order to reap the benefits of lower fuel bills...?
Does water-living ‘float your boat’? 13.06.2007
Priced out of waterside lofts, young professionals are snapping up houseboats in prime locations…
Go on – scrawl your friends’ contact details on a public wall 07.03.2007
We’ve all heard of unsecured wireless networks being randomly installed by staff and making private and business data available to all and sundry, but how often do you hear the three little letters BCC?
Budgeting for baby 21.02.2007
When you find out you're expecting a baby you will be aware that your life will never be the same again, but you may not anticipate just how quickly you will feel the effects on your pocket...
How close are we to achieving zero carbon homes? 14.02.2007
The government has pledged that all new homes built in the UK must be zero carbon within ten years, but how close are we to achieving this goal?
Sound insulation – especially when meeting regulations 31.01.2007
Whether you are experiencing noise through the building from neighbours or converting a house into flats, sound insulation components and techniques will be at the top of your list...
Portuguese Golf goes Norte 25.01.2007
Portuguese golf already boasts a world-beating reputation, especially in the Algarve region. Now, high quality courses are also springing up in the north, presenting canny investors with an opportunity to benefit from the Costa Verde’s cheaper property prices, cultural riches and rising visitor numbers.
Avoiding frozen pipes this winter 04.01.2007
We may be getting unseasonably warm weather, but don’t be mislead into forgetting what it will be like with those burst pipes if the weather turns…
The zero-carbon home nightmare 20.12.2006
The government wants all homes to be built to a zero-carbon standard in just ten year’s time but far from a dream home, the scenario may well turn into a nightmare for all concerned…
Quick off the blocks for 2007 12.12.2006
A bunch of property companies are straining at the starting blocks to give you their predictions for the housing market in 2007…
Getting more mileage out of your garage 06.12.2006
If your garage is not being used to its full potential, then why not consider converting it into extra living space?
Financial and tax implications of investing in property for the children 29.11.2006
Helping your children by providing a student property, perhaps with a view to helping them on to the property ladder sounds a good plan but on closer inspection is fraught with problems. A legal expert suggests a solution…
Don’t confuse bodgers and cowboy builders with DIYers 01.11.2006
A report from a government backed body implies DIY home-improvers are as bad as cowboy builders. But a great many DIYers will be offended by this as they usually take more trouble and care of their home improvements than any tradesperson…
The building inspector – Friend or font? 26.10.2006
Self-builders and DIYers have many a horror story to tell about unhelpful building inspectors, but few constructors with such tales have started out on the right foot…
Exciting times ahead for Plymouth 19.10.2006
Building work on the biggest regeneration scheme in Plymouth since the recovery after the blitz is under way…
Passport security 13.09.2006
When evaluating at security away from home you might consider cost or personal value of the item, but perhaps one should consider the value to the thief. In these terms a passport is worth far more than most items you carry - to you and the thief…
Celebrity-style home 23.08.2006
Is your ‘dream home’ a day-dream or an achievable ambition? A report from Standard Life Bank may be of interest to all those who aspire to a celebrity-style home…
Designing a patio 09.08.2006
Those who didn’t book a holiday this World Cup year may have a few hours spare on their hands this August and be looking for a summer job in the garden that improves the value of their property…
Wood floors and underfloor heating 02.08.2006
Thinking of laying a wood floor but concerned about underfloor heating? There are good and bad floors and good and bad heating systems to think about…
How practical is rainwater harvesting? 20.06.2006
Water shortages, debates in the House of Lords and threats of standpipes this summer - yet no real talk about domestic rainwater harvesting systems - can it be that tricky to implement? We take a quick peek behind the technology…
Coming soon in your area… No TV 14.06.2006
Digital TV switchover won’t happen for several years yet - so is there any point in doing anything about right away? Maybe - maybe not, but terrestrial ‘digital’ is already well and truly here so we take a look at the array of information, equipment and services available right now…
Choosing to self-build with timber frame 12.04.2006
OK, you have a plot of land and are thinking of building yourself. A timber frame construction has a lot to offer a self-builder, but what type of timber frame and what route should you use?
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
Zero-parking homes - is this really the way to make city living work? 28.02.2006
‘Designer living’ comes at a price and part of that price may soon be absolutely minimal access to the car - or will it?
Neither a gazunderer or gazumper be 21.02.2006
The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has released information that suggests gazundering could become a bigger problem than gazumping...
Icons of England 09.02.2006
What makes England what it is? A new project is the opportunity for villagers and townies alike to have their say about just what it is that makes up their portrait of England’...
Keeping Cosy This Winter 10.01.2006
As we face the coldest winter predicted in decades, what could be more comforting than a glowing fire to keep you toasty in your home?
The world’s longest guided busway 14.12.2005
So Cambridgeshire is finally to get its guided busway, heralded by many as the best solution to transport congestion, is it really that good, and will it solve any traffic problems?
Implications of working from home 29.11.2005
Once upon a time ‘working at home’ would have hinted at taking in washing, selling insurance or dressmaking and sewing. These days far more homeworking occupations are being explored - so what are the implications for you and your home?
Nuclear - the dirty word 15.11.2005
Sensible as renewables are for the planet, they aren’t expected to meet more than 40% our energy needs over the next 50 years. Even ignoring carbon issues, supply reliability and cost, fossil fuels are set to decline during that time, leaving a yawning energy gap - unless the UK returns to nuclear energy…
A unique invitation to view 16.08.2005
A unique opportunity to visit the smaller historic homes of Suffolk with a personally guided tour…
Self-building a dream home without a plot or planning permission? 05.04.2005
What can you build without planning permission? Maybe you can create your dream home without finding a plot to build on or getting planning permission…
It's DIY season 30.03.2005
Spring is the busiest DIY time of the year. With the lighter evenings and better weather, armies of Britons are raising ladders and swinging their tools - but not necessarily safely…
An environmental dead-end? 09.03.2005
As more windfarms are erected, both on land and sea it's inevitable that environmental and NIMBY pressure will increase, so what's behind the drive to keep on putting them up
A second phoenix in Plymouth 25.01.2005
A second phoenix rises out of Plymouth's city centre, but this time instead of migration being out to the suburbs, the investment opportunities on ex-naval land are driving inward…
The urban wind-farmer 21.09.2004
Will our rooftops and street corners one-day bristle with outdated wind generators and solar energy collectors, slowly becoming disused and going rusty
Garden rooms, garden houses 03.08.2004
Once upon a time the humble potting shed or greenhouse made a welcome retreat for a pipe-smoking cast-out or dishwashing recluse, but now it’s ‘all change’ as teenagers take over the garden shed…
Timber frame or traditional construction? 07.07.2004
If you are considering building your own home then the type of construction will be one of your major considerations, but even if you are buying a new home it’s still useful to know how it is built…
Making your home flood resilient 27.04.2004
If you are renovating a home in a flood risk area - even in a mild risk area - it could be beneficial to consider increasing the resilience of the property to flood damage while you are doing the renovation work…
Understanding foundations 13.04.2004
One of the first ‘construct’ considerations when building your own home will be the foundations. But to be sure you don’t get off to a shaky start you should be looking at foundations even before buying the land…
Make your home a safer place to live in 06.04.2004
Unfortunately your home is the place where accidents are most likely to occur. Here are some of the likely scenarios and steps you can take to prevent them…
Up to Speed: Damp and its control - part two: Rising damp 17.02.2004
Whereas condensation and some forms of penetrating damp can be remedied easily by the average DIYer, rising damp coming up through foundation walls can be difficult to deal with…
Up to Speed: Damp and its control - part one 11.02.2004
Don’t ignore damp or it may do serious damage to your home. Damp in the home may arise for a variety of reasons but how do you know what the cause is and how do you fix it
Up to speed: Replacing a boiler 04.02.2004
Changing your central heating? There may be many reasons for replacing a boiler; but if you do – consider throwing out your cold water storage tank too…
Up to speed: So what is it with loft tanks? 28.01.2004
With arctic weather freezing our pipes and tanks, we ask, “Why are our lofts filled with risky plumbing?”
Up to speed: More on dealing with radiators 06.01.2004
So you’ve bled your radiators, but still your home is not warm enough. What else can you do without calling in the plumber?
Up to speed: Dealing with radiators 23.12.2003
Radiators – warm up your home more efficiently and save on plumber’s fees too by doing a quick radiator service for yourself…
Christmas lights without the shocks 02.12.2003
Whether creating a winter wonderland or just stringing a set of lights around an outside tree, the most important point is to make sure that your lighting is completely safe…
Rat-race runaways 28.10.2003
Selling up and moving to the wilds: more and more of us are actually doing it instead of just being downshifting dreamers..
What’s in a name? 07.10.2003
Choosing a name for a new home can sometimes be a tricky job. Not only do you want to have a meaningful name, maybe reflecting something of the home or locality itself, but you have to be sure that the Royal Mail doesn’t think it will clash with another property nearby
Water in the works 23.09.2003
Water in the garden can be an enchanting and interesting diversion from mundane lawns and borders. But could you live with it? And what about maintenance, particularly if you buy a house with a water feature already established and don’t know what will be involved
Sound insulation on party walls 10.09.2003
“What happens if I buy an adjoining home and then I find the neighbours are noisy?” It’s a good question and well worth asking before buying..
A lofty improvement to your home 29.07.2003
A loft represents a large proportion of unused space in your home; this week we suggest how good use can be made of this otherwise wasted area..
Light up your life 22.07.2003
Letting in light to your rooms is one of the best ways to make a dramatic change to the appearance and warmth of the home..
Keeping cool about air conditioning 15.07.2003
Keeping cool is turning into a passion this summer but what does it take to get a cool night’s sleep
Classy glass will add substantially to your home 16.06.2003
Classy Glass. Adding a conservatory gives an extra room and adds value to your property at the same time…
Low frequency noise – any solutions? 10.06.2003
Low frequency noise is almost inaudible, but causes distress to those susceptible. Research is underway in several countries but at the moment the emphasis is on measurement techniques, standards, sources of noise and it’s effects on people rather than measures to control it..
Light pollution - should we put the lights out? 29.05.2003
Light pollution has increased dramatically causing problems for people living in towns and even in the countryside…
Self build part 5: Managing the project 17.02.2003
In this fifth and final part of our short series on self-build we look at some of the management skills you will need to master if your self build is to be successful…
Self build part 4: Deciding to buy a plot 10.02.2003
The fourth part of our short series on self-build looks at the pitfalls involved in making the crucial decision to buy a particular plot..
Self build part 3: Searching for land 03.02.2003
In this third part of our short series we look at the hurdles involved in hunting for land..
Self build part 2: Determining your requirements 27.01.2003
In this, the second article in a short series on self-build, we look at some of the issues that you should think about before starting your search for land
Self build part 1: An introduction 20.01.2003
In this, the first article in a short series on self-build, we look at what it is that drives people to want to build their own home.
Living above a shop or commercial premises 06.07.2001
What is life like for the hundreds of thousands of people who live above retail establishments with which they have no commercial connection
A buy to let investment alternative 29.06.2001
Introducing a new slant on the buy to let investment idea from First Property Investments
Our new range of property calculators goes live 09.03.2001
Our technology team have been hard at it of late with the creation of a new 'Calculators' section on the site. They range from the very simple and straightforward 'rent converter' to the complex mortgage schemes comparison tool. There are ten in total - we give you a brief rundown on each one
Do you have a star property? 16.02.2001
Have you ever wondered whether your property has the attributes to create you an income by appearing on T.V or in a film? Do you have a star property
Council House Exchanges. 26.10.2000
This article follows on from a previous article and looks at making an exchange with another council or housing exchange tenant
The jokes are on us! 20.10.2000
Allegedely, these are extracts from actual letters sent to various landlords, councils and housing associations throughout the UK. We apologise in advance to anyone who finds them offensive...
Holdiday House Exchanges. 11.10.2000
If the thought of temporarily trading your two-up-two-down terraced townhouse turns you on, then reading this article on house exchange should be of interest
WeBooks: The essential online resource for property investors 28.02.2008
WeBooks is an exciting new project, providing FREE online access to books containing essential, educational information about property investing...
Home improvement special 16.08.2007
Adding value to our homes is not just 'something we're interested in' - it's a bona fide national obsession, and with good reason...
Housing boom a haven for ‘flipping’ fraudsters 09.05.2007
Where there is money to be made, there's a strong chance that there is also money to be stolen. In this regard, the housing market is no exception...
Portuguese Golf goes Norte 25.01.2007
Portuguese golf already boasts a world-beating reputation, especially in the Algarve region. Now, high quality courses are also springing up in the north, presenting canny investors with an opportunity to benefit from the Costa Verde’s cheaper property prices, cultural riches and rising visitor numbers.
Risks of buying insurance over the internet 23.05.2006
Increasingly, people are buying insurance over the telephone or through the internet. These ‘instant’ methods of purchase carry many advantages in today’s busy lifestyles but they also carry a major failing…
Is it time for a water feature? 10.05.2005
If you want a good water feature in your garden this summer you'd better start soon…
Burglars pounce when you are moving home 19.04.2005
Whether you are renting or buying, your chances of being burgled are higher when you move home - both before and after the move…
Get house prices right up your street 01.02.2005
If you'd like to know the price your neighbour paid for his home or indeed the price paid for one near a property you are interested in buying, it's now pretty easy to do it on line…
Notifying DIY electrical work to the Council 12.01.2005
Taking on repair or installation work to your home electrical system is dangerous if you don't fully understand what it's all about. Now it's illegal for even the most proficient DIYer to do it unless you get the work approved…
How to pick out a dodgy neighbourhood 15.12.2004
Noisy neighbours and dodgy neighbourhoods can cause such stress that even the most laid back person can get on his or her high horse now and again - but how do you check out a potential neighbourhood before you buy a property?
Project planning for a move overseas 17.11.2004
Moving abroad is a big step into the unknown and requires plenty of thought and planning…
Influencing planning decisions 02.11.2004
Our cities, towns and countryside have changed and will continue to change. While change is inevitable, the type of change is not…
Moving tips 20.10.2004
We are a nation of house hopping property swappers and should be adept at moving home. But the stress and costs we repeatedly incur don't stop us moving - or getting it wrong, so a few moving tips may just be what the doctor ordered…
Are you loosing more heat from your home than you think? 12.10.2004
As the weather turns decidedly windier and cooler it's time to take a look at energy efficiency in the home...
Estate agents hit back - and say customers need to clean up their own act! 05.10.2004
After being told they need to clean up their act, estate agents hit back with a list of tips homeowners and buyers can do to improve their own act…
Estate agent misdemeanours we know of - and some we might not 01.09.2004
An almost light-hearted look at the dark side of estate agents and our love-hate relationship with them…
A few top places to move abroad to 27.07.2004
Planning to move abroad but not yet decided where? The new country will be only part of the equation, but an important part all the same, so here’s a brief rundown of some the main expat locations…
Is your lawn, well - not exactly match perfect? 29.06.2004
Rain, strawberries & cream and the snap-snap of tennis balls is with us again. It must be Lawn Tennis and Wimbledon time. And then you look out onto your own lawn. But it’s not quite match perfect, you tell yourself. Still it could be – here’s how…
Does your house need the ‘house doctor’ treatment? 11.05.2004
House won’t sell? Need a new lifestyle? Find your family expanding but your space reducing? Maybe you need you own personal ‘house doctor’…
A place to entertain in the garden 20.04.2004
Now is a good time to prepare for a lazy summer, garden entertaining or just relaxing. And what better project for the spring than an area of decking…
Leaseback Schemes 30.03.2004
Leaseback property schemes allow investors a guaranteed income and an easy route into buy-to-let ownership…
Up to speed: Compulsory purchase, part two 16.12.2003
In this, the second part of a two-part article we look at the CPO procedure itself, rules for compensation and the grounds for objection against a compulsory purchase order...
Up to speed: Compulsory purchase, who, how and why? 10.12.2003
In this, the first of a two-part article we look at what compulsory purchase orders are, who can slap one on you and what you should do if you suspect one might be likely...
What’s in a window? 25.11.2003
From the moment your visitors turn the corner to when they enter your doorway they are receiving subtle signals that say something about you, your lifestyle and perhaps your ancestors too...
Dark waters in the autumn pond 21.10.2003
Autumn has arrived and with it comes problems for your garden pond. Unless you have already covered your pond with netting, now is the time to get out in the garden and cover it up until the leaves stop falling...
The English thatched roof 16.09.2003
The picture-postcard image of thatched homes means prices are holding up even while the rest of the housing market slows to a halt. What is thatch and why is it so everlastingly popular?
Canada Water – A unique development matures 04.08.2003
British Land, in partnership with Canada Quays Limited have won the final leg of Southwark Council’s rejuvenation plan of the Canada Water Dock basin and surrounding quayside areas
Will commonhold become commonplace? 03.11.2000
Along with the inroduction of the new seller's packs, the government is proposing further changes to the way the housing market works, with the introduction of the 'commonhold lease'. Will the new measures really go far enough to solve the problems of the existing system?
Wind turbines: Credible or cobblers? 25.09.2007
Is it time for Brits to consider splashing out on a home turbine in order to reap the benefits of lower fuel bills...?
The ‘Earth Ship’ has landed 17.04.2007
Imagine a house made out of car tyres and empty beer cans that heats and cools itself naturally. Welcome to the Earth Ship…
Beat this summer’s hosepipe ban by getting prepared now 27.02.2007
February is not usually a month when we think about our watering the gardens, but if you want to be sure of beating a hosepipe ban this summer, now is the time to get busy…
How close are we to achieving zero carbon homes? 14.02.2007
The government has pledged that all new homes built in the UK must be zero carbon within ten years, but how close are we to achieving this goal?
Portuguese Golf goes Norte 25.01.2007
Portuguese golf already boasts a world-beating reputation, especially in the Algarve region. Now, high quality courses are also springing up in the north, presenting canny investors with an opportunity to benefit from the Costa Verde’s cheaper property prices, cultural riches and rising visitor numbers.
Misleading ‘green’ energy claims 16.01.2007
It’s vital, if the government is to meet its 2010 CO2 targets, that households play their part. But consumer groups argue that until energy suppliers are up-front with consumers about ‘green’ tariffs we aren’t likely to respond favourably…
Is it worthwhile installing a wind turbine? 09.01.2007
The wind energy industry has admitted that householders should look at energy savings at home before installing home wind turbines - and look very carefully at likely levels of reward too…
Is it time to fit a wind turbine to my home? 20.07.2006
Microgeneration has been in the news again with energy companies being told to persuade households to be eco-friendly plus the Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Bill passing its final Parliamentary stage and receiving Royal Assent. We take a look at what’s involved in putting a wind turbine on your property and what you could save in fuel bills…
UK houses that are really green 28.06.2006
Buildings generate 75% of all carbon dioxide emissions, according to government figures, and houses can be good or poor in this respect. But how green can houses become? A few families in the Shropshire countryside are finding out…
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
‘Green resolutions’ for 2006 04.01.2006
For those who have not yet made their New Year resolutions, how about a few ‘green’ ones to clean up the planet…
Your house is threatening the environment 05.10.2005
A satellite in space picks up waste heat leaking from your home and later you receive a bill for harming the environment. Future fancy - or the way of things to come? Either way, there are things you can do to your house now to protect the environment…
Allergies and the home 23.08.2005
As many as one in ten people will suffer from an allergy at some point in their lives but there are things one can do around the home to help…
Looking for a green home 01.06.2005
Ok so you are a 'green' family - at least you like to think so, but now you want to move home and are looking for a greener house to go with your green lifestyle - not so easy is it?
A new way to cool the home - and the planet 24.08.2004
As the planet warms up some people are fitting something rather different instead of conventional air conditioning systems…
Container reuse - green homes with a difference 22.06.2004
Take an architect with an obsession for cleaning up heaps of rusting containers and the current uneconomic value of recycling steel and what do you get?
Is Japanese Knotweed in your plot? 02.06.2004
Japanese Knotweed is so threatening to the environment that it is covered by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and you could be prosecuted for allowing it to escape into your neighbour’s garden or into the wild…
Household appliances and how to read those labels 16.03.2004
Energy efficiency rarely makes the headlines. But it is really important news. If you make your home more energy efficient, you save money and help the environment. So it is a win-win situation..
Concrete jungle or a city of biodiversity? 19.08.2003
The potential health benefits of more green spaces in cities are well established, but just how is the compromise between concrete and vegetation to be improved?
Dealing with household pests ecosympathetically 23.06.2003
If you’re ecofriendly but bugged by thoughts of creepy-crawly things running round your home then this is the place to look; or not perhaps, if you’re squeamish
Why are we so blasé about flooding? 06.05.2003
Who would choose to buy a property in a flood zone? Many do and it’s surprising how unconcerned people are about the issue..
Wave goodbye to your beachfront villa 31.08.2001
As luck would have it, a giant Tsunami is certain to one day wreak havoc on coastal civilisations on both sides of the Atlantic..
Coasting towards global disaster. 23.02.2001
The danger posed to low lying areas close to major rivers and their tributaries has been well publicised, but one of the areas most at risk is our coastline. But as this article highlights, our shores are under threat from more than just the rising tides
Climate change and The Hague conference. 01.12.2000
We take a look at what could and perhaps should have been achieved at The Hague and examine what the effects of such continued failures will be on the UK environment as well as the UK homeowner.
Flooding. Homeowners count the cost. 10.11.2000
As the worst floods for hundreds of years finally look set to abate this weekend, we take a quick look at the flooding phenomenon
Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED)
Britain's largest eco-friendly residential property development is officially open, but just what is all the fuss about
Housing boom a haven for ‘flipping’ fraudsters 09.05.2007
Where there is money to be made, there's a strong chance that there is also money to be stolen. In this regard, the housing market is no exception...
The ‘Earth Ship’ has landed 17.04.2007
Imagine a house made out of car tyres and empty beer cans that heats and cools itself naturally. Welcome to the Earth Ship…
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
Value of a mum 23.03.2004
Both men and women seriously underestimate how much their partners put in to the household work schedule. But look carefully, If tragedy struck then serious money would be required to replace the average mum’s workload…
How to protect yourself against scams 20.05.2003
Scams constantly turn up and anyone can be a victim. Reduce your chances of being a casualty by reading here…
CASPAR 03.12.2001
All about the new type of City-centre Apartments for Single People at Affordable Rents
UK population trends 21.09.2001
The Office of National Statistics regularly releases a publication called 'Population Trends', which looks into all sorts of patterns in UK society and this week we take a look inside and see what the findings are
Liverpool is looking lively again 10.08.2001
A coordinated programme of regeneration and investment is underway in Liverpool, incorporating a number of high profile schemes that will really pump new life right into the heart of the city
The NLIS and electronic conveyancing 27.07.2001
A look at what steps have been made so far in the establishment of the National Land Information System - a key element in the drive towards electronic conveyancing
Has Labour helped homeowners? 01.06.2001
With the election looming, we ask whether or not Labour has really done that much to help Britain's millions of homeowners
The gender gap and personal finance 27.04.2001
The gender gap in personal finance is not so wide as you might think, but there are still some areas for concern...
Elephant & Castle - The best kept secret in Central London? 26.01.2001
This week has seen the approval of a massive social regeneration project which will completely change the landscape of South East London's Elephant and Castle.We examine the complexity of putting such a plan into practice and examine how the key areas of life in Elephant & Castle will be impacted by the massive reworking of the area.
Social exclusion: A new approach? 19.01.2001
In a week when Blair's government has announced new measures to tackle the problem we take a look at the initiatives to find out if this government is really looking for a new approach, or simply providing us with an election gimmick.
Social exclusion on English housing estates 05.01.2001
After the horrible murder of schoolboy Damilola Taylor, a portion of the blame has been atrributed to social exclusion. We take an introductory look at the issues
Living in 21st century Britain
A look at the ONS Living in Britain report, which highlights some important population and lifestyle trends, which define modern society and underpin the economy.
The ‘Earth Ship’ has landed 17.04.2007
Imagine a house made out of car tyres and empty beer cans that heats and cools itself naturally. Welcome to the Earth Ship…
Wall tie corrosion – should you have your home inspected? 14.03.2007
Wall ties in as many as half of British homes with cavity walls could be corroding and need replacing before serious structural damage occurs. But how would you know?
Ideas for your garden landscape 11.10.2006
It’s time to think about the garden you want next year – but what do you want? A new website is full of ideas…
Digging deep 04.10.2006
If you don’t have the space or planning permission to extend your house upwards or outwards you could always consider going down…
Replacing a radiator 06.09.2006
Your radiators and towel rails don’t just have to be a functional heat provider. The winter collections of designer radiators are arriving and these sleek, modern designs, will be a ‘work of art’ in your home, adding far more than warmth to your rooms…
Don’t make it an unwelcome holiday trip for your garden gnome 16.08.2006
We’re all going on a summer holiday... except the burglars. So you’ve cancelled the milk & papers, locked all the doors & windows, installed light timers and told the neighbours where you are going - but what have you done with the garden?
Whose child will drown in your garden? 27.07.2006
The peak months for children to die in garden drowning incidents are - unsurprisingly - July and August, but what might stagger you is whose garden they die in…
Thunderstorm protection at home 05.07.2006
Stormy humid weather often brings the threat of thunderstorms, so how best to protect yourself both inside and outside the home?
A lawn in time for Wimbledon? 07.06.2006
Chances are we’ll be looking at a lot of green on the TV shortly. What with the World Cup and Wimbledon it’s a fair bet some of us will be wondering what happened to our own patch of green grass…
Non-payment of council tax 31.05.2006
As yet another council-tax protester gets ready to accept a jail sentence this week, we reveal that prison might not be the only outcome as more local authorities take to the use of bankruptcy to collect unpaid tax…
Hosepipe-less gardening 17.05.2006
For the first time in eleven years non-essential use of water has been banned in the UK. What can gardeners, and particularly new garden builders, do to ensure a good-looking garden in a hosepipe-less environment?
A look at the shape of equity release 10.05.2006
Risky - and not the best way to release money, say some, but property equity release is becoming increasingly popular all the same. We take a look at the ins and outs of the ways to release the equity in your home…
Getting to grips with light spillage 26.04.2006
With light pollution now a Statutory Nuisance, what are the things homeowners should do to cut down on unreasonable light spillage?
Home improvement - what is essential? 20.04.2006
Spring is the season of home improvement, but of the many things you could do to improve your home, what is considered essential?
Give your kitchen a creative revamp 04.04.2006
Improving instead of moving is back in fashion, partly because of an uncertain housing market, a DIY source claims. By concentrating on your kitchen though, you can make you home more attractive whether you move or not…
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
Springtime is the right time for a house face-lift 07.03.2006
Now is the perfect time to put new life into your home. Research has shown that longer hours of sunlight and a spring-time home refresh is one of the best ways to give you an energising lift…
Could a development near you increase your risk of flooding? 15.02.2006
Planners are ignoring advice to refuse major schemes at risk of flooding, so could a development near you increase your risk of flooding?
Pick of the PCISs 02.02.2006
After last week's feature on the Government's U-turn over property in SIPPs, this week we look at some alternative Property Collective Investment Schemes (PCISs).
A sinking SIPP is not necessarily bad news... 26.01.2006
Gordon Brown's dramatic u-turn on SIPPS hit many savers and vendors who had already spent considerable time and capital ahead of SIPPs setting sail. But what does this development mean for people who only got as far as thinking of getting on board?
Oh dear Santa! Chimneys are becoming harder to find 20.12.2005
Father Christmas should make the most of the chimneys this Christmas Eve because in years to come he may be hard pushed to find one...
Fireworks, shoots and leaves 01.11.2005
The next few weekends probably represent the most suitable time to prepare the outside your home for winter’s onslaught. Gutters will be full of spent fireworks and leaves but there’s still daylight and dry weather to be found…
Will the hard winter damage the inside of your home? 25.10.2005
Winter damage to property is not limited to the outside components. Improved insulation, better draught proofing and modern lifestyles mean it’s easy to trap copious quantities of water vapour indoors - just ready to condense out and cause damage to your property and eventually, you…
Your house is threatening the environment 05.10.2005
A satellite in space picks up waste heat leaking from your home and later you receive a bill for harming the environment. Future fancy - or the way of things to come? Either way, there are things you can do to your house now to protect the environment…
Preparing your garden for winter 20.09.2005
Your plants have filled the garden with colour all summer long, and with autumn approaching, it is time for some well directed TLC…
Safe as houses? 06.09.2005
Home security measures work, say police and crime surveys. But what level of security should you have - and what about ease of fitting?
Allergies and the home 23.08.2005
As many as one in ten people will suffer from an allergy at some point in their lives but there are things one can do around the home to help…
What will be your council tax bill after revaluation? 02.08.2005
The average household in three out of every ten English local authorities could be moved to a different council tax band following the revaluation exercise that began in April…
Boundary disputes and how to deal with them 12.07.2005
Disputes between neighbours often revolve around some form of boundary issue. What can be done to ease the tension and resolve the problem?
Can we prepare our homes for extreme flood weather? 21.06.2005
Yet again torrential rain has flooded communities unexpectedly, causing death, damage and tragedy. The experts say we must expect more frequent incidences as the climate changes, so can one prepare for the worst?
How not to add value to your property 07.06.2005
Without the right advice homeowners can damage their investment by undertaking some DIY modifications, surveyors warn…
Planting the wrong tree 23.03.2005
Planting a tree for spring may sound like a very good thing to do - it is, but maybe not so good for your home…
A thoroughly unexciting weekend looms 23.11.2004
With the coldest winter for thirty years promised, damage to damp walls and woodwork by frost is going to be a big issue this year. Now is the time to get outside and reduce the chances of damage by doing a little gutter and roof maintenance before it is too late…
Moving in with a splash of colour 25.05.2004
After the cost of moving home you may think that you’ll have to leave the decoration as it is for a while, but decorating a couple of main rooms doesn’t have to cost the earth…
What constitutes ‘unoccupied’ property? 20.01.2004
If you live alone, look at your home insurance policy before going into hospital…
Riverside property owner’s responsibilities 04.11.2003
Buying a riverside cottage may mean buying into a lot more than just a pretty view…
Your rights as a householder 01.10.2003
A dispute with a neighbour can be very tiresome and best sorted out in an amicable way if at all possible. But knowing your rights and your legal position is helpful if things get sticky..
Creating a low maintenance garden can be easy 26.08.2003
Creating a beautiful low maintenance garden, with plenty of colour and good year-round interest, is far easier than you might think..
Home security and preventing burglary 01.07.2003
A £26 million Home Office initiative has cut burglary by 20 per cent in crime hotspots over the last three years, so how was this achieved and can burglary be cut in your area too
Cut the cost, not the call this Christmas 09.12.2002
Ring the changes with your telephone call plan provider, and you could save a massive 90% on international calls this Christmas...
The dangers that lie beneath 16.11.2002
Geological factors can be a key element in determining the stability of property and the safety of its occupiers. Here are three of the more common hazards…
Keep yourself safe at home 18.10.2002
Have you ever undertaken work on a gas appliance? Do you actually understand the potentially lethal implications of such an action
Leasehold management charges and ground rent 11.10.2002
Leaseholders up and down the country will be familiar with the feeling that the hundreds or in some cases thousands of pounds paid out in ground rent and maintenance charges is hardly money well spent..
Fancy a bit of stripping tonight, darling? 05.08.2002
Get down to the art of stripping, with a guide to the trials and tribulations of paint-removing, sanding and finishing the banisters..
Avoiding the rip off merchants 19.07.2002
It's fine if you're at Alton Towers, but when you're dealing with tradesmen, you definitely don't want to get taken for a ride..
Water companies, meters, rates and information 14.06.2002
We expect companies to answer enquiries and resolve complaints when things go wrong: but the more information customers have before they contact their water company, the better.
Be sure DIY projects make home improvements 17.05.2002
Getting that dream makeover for your property may give your home a new lease of life, but will it actually add value to the property
Surrender an endowment at your peril ! 22.03.2002
Many people whose endowment policies are under performing decide upon surrendering their policy and switching to another investment vehicle to accompany their interest only mortgage or moving to a repayment mortgage. But this is often not the best way to make good of what is undoubtedly a bad situation.
How at home are you in your neighbourhood? 28.02.2002
Despite the increasing propensity of Brits to move house every 6 or 7 years, the overwhelming majority of us enjoy living where we do...
Home Equity Release Schemes 25.01.2002
With house prices rising sharply over the past few years, an increasing number of homeowners are finding themselves "house rich, cash poor". Home Equity Release schemes provide a way to unlock this value and convert it into cash
Winter brings security worries 26.10.2001
Aside from the festivals of Halloween, bonfire night, Christmas and new year, winter is also a period that brings the cover of darkness to night-time thieves...
How to dodge the dodgy builders 20.04.2001
Got some work that needs doing on your house? Take our advice and you should be able to steer clear of the cowboy builders...
Home Information Packs: What you need to know 11.04.2007
Put your home up for sale from 1 June and you'll need a Home Information Pack. The following article explains what they are and how they'll affect both buyers and sellers…
Could your ‘buyer’ be a burglar? 28.06.2005
Criminals can pose as potential house purchasers, ‘casing the joint’ with the blessing of the owner and the estate agent…
Kerb appeal 01.03.2005
They call it kerb appeal, that all-important first impression that gets potential buyers to stop driving past and make your property one of the few homes they'll view...
TheMoveChannel - Personal Property Sales Management Service 09.03.2004
In this second article about our independent estate agent intermediary service, we take a closer look at the personal property sales management solution...
Cutting the cost of aborted sales 04.10.2002
SecureSale, the UK's first ever service to address the staggering £350 million a year loss the public suffers from aborted house sales, is to be launched this week by ParTake..
Shaky sellers showing signs of nerves? 18.11.2001
The latest Home report from Bradford & Bingley Estate Agents shows that the property market is holding up pretty well in the wake of September 11th, but a few jittery vendors mean that there are bargains to be had for buyers..
Regional housing markets review 27.09.2001
Time once again to take a look at the regional markets, with our own summary of the Housing Market Review from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors
Regional housing markets review 24.07.2001
This week, we summarise the two major pieces of regional housing statistics released by the Halifax and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors over the last week or so
Are buyers taking a summer break? 22.06.2001
For the second time, we have taken our own look at the Bradford & Bingley Estate Agents Home Report and present to you our own view of the lessons that can be learned from i
How to sell your home yourself 15.06.2001
Why are people so intent on using an estate agent to sell their home when there is no longer any real requirement to do so?
A practical solution to the seller's pack problem? 18.05.2001
ParTake Services have launched SecureSale. Could this be a viable long term solution to the seller's pack problem?
What now for the seller's pack? 11.05.2001
The Homes Bill is officially in limbo, so what will the future hold for the much talked-about seller's pack?
Buyers bide their time for choice homes 02.03.2001
The latest of Bradford & Bingley's HOME reports has been published, charting a range of behavioral trends amongst property buyers and sellers. We take a look at some of the findings and try to look past the numbers to see what we can learn from them
Top Tips for Selling. 27.09.2000
This 'alternative' viewpoint is really quite mainstream, but covers an area that has not yet been given much attention on this site - selling your house. Read some tips that may help sell your home for those of you who may be struggling to make a sale.
Seller's Packs. 22.09.2000
We take an in depth look at seller's packs. Find out what they are, what they will mean to buyers and sellers, what their critics and advocates say about them, some of the possible consequences of their introduction, and our view of the whole thing...
Myths about the buy-to-let market 07.02.2007
The buy-to-let market and its wider impact are widely misunderstood and the public perception of buy-to-let is not always positive. Yet it should be celebrated as a resounding success story, says a persuasive report…
A useful guide to help landlords understand HMO licensing 14.03.2006
Long gone are the days when being a landlord was easy. But as from next month (April 6th) another hurdle to keep landlords in nimble fitness is due to come into force - licensing for HMOs…
What will the Olympics bring to London's property market? 17.05.2005
With just 50 days to go before the crucial vote to determine the Host City for the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, what are the possible effects on the property market of a successful London bid?
What to ask when buying an overseas investment property 06.01.2005
When it comes to assimilating information about investment property, particularly one that you may never even see, obtaining the right knowledge is often a matter of knowing which questions to ask...
Choosing a Property to Let 13.07.2004
There are many important factors to consider when buying a property to let, all of which will influence the success of your investment…
Screening your lodger 30.04.2003
The last thing you have to do before you let a stranger in your house is to screen them and do what you can to ensure they are not going to cause you all manner of problems..
Choosing a lodger 07.04.2003
Often the most difficult aspect of renting a room out in your home - this article looks at the process of finding a selecting someone to share your home with..
Taxation issues 27.03.2003
This chapter on lodgers looks at how your taxation situation is affected by the presence of the lodger..
The legal issues 19.03.2003
The second in our series on lodgers looks at some of the legal issues that relate to renting out a room..
Renting a room to a lodger 10.03.2003
In this, the first of a four part series on lodgers, we set out the case for letting a complete stranger move into your house..
An investors view of the property market 29.11.2002
The results of a survey aimed at learning about investors’ views on general prospects for the property market and investment in the coming 6 months..
Why buy to let could turn bad? 21.06.2002
The last couple of weeks has seen something of a will it/won't it debate being carried out in the columns of the national press, but to understand why it could all go so horribly wrong for some buy to let investors, it is a good idea to rewind and look at what has been driving the growth in the market in recent times...
How safe is Buy To Let? 18.01.2002
Mortgage lending figures show that it is getting more popular every year, but just how safe really is buy to let residential property investment?
Residential Lettings Review 14.09.2001
The Bradford & Bingley Residential Lettings report is an excellent resource for landlords looking to gain a snapshot of the current trends in the residential lettings market.You can either read our summary of the findings, or download the entire report in PDF format
What investment personality type are you?
With more people turning to property as an investment in favour of the stockmarket or pensions, experts at the Property Investor Show set to open Friday 17 September, 2004 have compiled a guide to help you decide which buy-to-let option matches your personality...
The rise and rise of the ballistic Baltics 31.08.2006
Over the last 12 months there have been many press reports of meteoric rates of growth in the three Baltic states - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. So what's all the fuss about?!
When ‘won’t pay’ will pay 12.07.2006
The small claims court was set up to avoid the costs of going to court to collect unpaid debts and similar disputes. An internet based service makes it even easier to get a successful resolution…
Pick of the PCISs 02.02.2006
After last week's feature on the Government's U-turn over property in SIPPs, this week we look at some alternative Property Collective Investment Schemes (PCISs).
A sinking SIPP is not necessarily bad news... 26.01.2006
Gordon Brown's dramatic u-turn on SIPPS hit many savers and vendors who had already spent considerable time and capital ahead of SIPPs setting sail. But what does this development mean for people who only got as far as thinking of getting on board?
Don't put all your pension eggs in one basket 08.11.2005
With A-Day less than six months away a veritable buzz of excitement can be heard from product providers and property investment companies alike. We all know you can’t bake a cake without breaking a few eggs but for some investors, putting property into a SIPP is too much like putting all your eggs in one basket…
Consumer rights across Europe’s borders 09.08.2005
Whether you are abroad on holiday or fitting out your new overseas holiday home you may need to know your rights as a consumer…
Pots of gold in buy-to-let pensions? 15.06.2005
There is still nearly a year to go before residential property can be packaged within a SIPP and with the prospect of a raft of small print covering this radical new departure in pension regulation, what do the experts think?
Self-invested personal pensions 22.02.2005
Last time we looked at some of the aspects of putting property into pensions. Continuing the theme, we look at whether SIPPs are for you...
Buying to let your pension grow 15.02.2005
Many people are already deeply committed to using property to fund their retirement but new tax rules coming into force next year mean investors are rushing to stash money away in their pension funds over the coming months, ready to buy second homes and buy-to-lets after April 2006...
What's involved in trading down? 07.12.2004
Making use of your biggest asset makes a lot of sense, particularly if your children have flown the nest...
The changing banking landscape 26.10.2004
Customers are driving change in the banking industry but can the big banks deliver?
The big step - mortgage affordability 10.08.2004
Buying a mortgage is probably your biggest financial commitment; so how do you ensure you make the right choice?
Credit scoring 16.06.2004
Confused or intrigued about credit scoring? The British Bankers’ Association has issued a guide to the way banks take your personal circumstances into account when considering a loan...
The willpower to make a will 14.10.2003
More than half the UK population are set to die with their financial affairs in confusion, a survey has pointed out and it’s all because of a lack of public knowledge, both about how to make a will and the effect of not making one...
What to look for in 2003 13.01.2003
With the average punter likely to spend several hundred pounds on presents alone this Christmas, money-saving ideas are often warmly received, so here are 5 early Christmas cards to cut your shopping bill..
The stress of choosing your PHI policy 23.11.2002
With the average punter likely to spend several hundred pounds on presents alone this Christmas, money-saving ideas are often warmly received, so here are 5 early Christmas cards to cut your shopping bill..
The stress of choosing your PHI policy 08.11.2002
To coincide with stress awareness day on 6th November, Charcol has highlighted some interesting anomalies people may encounter when seeking permanent health insurance policies...
A quick guide to credit scoring 01.11.2002
Credit blacklists are one of the more believable urban myths, but a myth nonetheless. What is true, however, is that lenders use different scoring systems to assess a borrower’s capacity and likelihood of repaying a mortgage loan...
Ten simple steps to a better mortgage 25.10.2002
Virgin One have this week claimed that millions of homebuyers now regret the fact that they made their mortgage decision based on price alone. So just how do you decide which loan is best for you
Repayment vs Interest only mortgages 23.08.2002
Choosing the way that your going to pay back all that money is a decision that every borrower must face, but one which few give its due consideration..
50 ways to save money 26.07.2002
There are many ways to skin a cat, though we don't know any of them. But we do know some ways to save money, of which there are 50 here..
Different types of mortgage rate 12.07.2002
To mark the launch of our new sister site entirely dedicated to mortgages, we have put together a simple summary of the five main types of mortgage rate available to the UK borrower, as well as some of the pros and cons that apply to each type...
Don't deal with unauthorised firms 24.05.2002
The Financial Services Authority has warned private investors not to play Russian Roulette with their savings by dealing with unauthorised firms. Why
An easy way to beat the bad credit blues 12.04.2002
Every year, many thousands of people fail a credit check. While this is often due to a poor track record in making payments, one of the most frequent causes of failure is one that is completely avoidable...
Take control of your finances this tax year 05.04.2002
It may be too late to take advantage of your ISA allowances for last year, but it's never too late to take stock and turn over a new leaf as far as your cash management is concerned..
Raiders Of The Lost Bin 15.03.2002
Consumers are placing themselves at serious risk of becoming fraud victims in the wake of a new crime that has arrived from the US and is spreading across Britain, accorting to reports out this week from data giant Experian...
Put your SECURITYfirst with MPPI cover 07.12.2001
To coincide with the launch of our mortgage payment protection insurance website, we look at MPPI and ask whether the millions of unprotected borrowers should reassess their need to get cover
Get yourself out of the credit trap ! 02.11.2001
This week, instead of our normal style feature, we've highlighted four credit cards that we feel could be useful for borrowers looking to claw their way out of debt, or preferably avoid the credit trap altogether..
What the rate cut means for you & me 06.04.2001
For the second time in three months, the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee has cut interest by a quarter of a percent. We take a look at what this means for the consumer...
Foreign currency mortgages 30.03.2001
Some people get their mortgage in a foreign currency. It's risky, but in some cases the rewards can be worth it. We take a look at how it works, the potential benefits, the possibilities for disaster and what you can do to minimise the risk
The changing face of the UK mortgage market. 16.03.2001
For years, lenders have offered products with high SVRs that ultimately drive customers into switching to another provider. But things are suddenly changing very quickly in the UK mortgage market…
FSA mortgage regulation - how will it help consumers? 02.02.2001
The Government announced in January of last year that it intends to introduce statutory regulation of mortgage lending from January of next year, with the Financial Services Authority (FSA) taking responsibility for the regulation. Why are they doing this? Is it a big deal? Will things be any different? Hopefully, this article should answer these questions…
Why waste your energy? 31.03.2006
With soaring energy costs and worries over climate change, is the solution not to produce yet more energy but to focus on minimising energy wastage? Many people think so...
New hope for airport-sensitive property owners 31.08.2005
If living next to an airport is a necessity for some, living within sound range of aircraft is almost unavoidable for many. Now a new aeroplane design may change all that…
Arriving now - transport for the city of the future 18.05.2004
An automated driverless personal travel service is set to revolutionise city transport in Britain and abroad…
The robot shopkeeper who’s open all hours 02.09.2003
If your village has lost its last shop you may be in for a technological surprise just around the corner..
A house from the future - or the past? 12.08.2003
Can we benefit from 3.8 million years of development? Dr. Eugene Tsui believes we can and has architecture to prove it..
Sun city to set the tone for solar power 01.02.2002
Sustainable developments that use renewable energy sources are set to be one of the big growth areas of the next few decades. This week we take a brief look at Canalside, a sustainable mixed-use community development that will be the UK's largest solar-powered village...
Krashpads 24.08.2001
In a country where property is now priced beyond the reach of many potential buyers and where space is at a premium, could Krashpads represent the answer to the nation's housing crisis?
Freedom Ship: The high life on the high seas 23.03.2001
If it ever gets off the ground and into the sea, Freedom Ship will be the largest vessel ever to set sail. We take a peek at what life will be like on this giant floating community
"The fridge shall speaketh unto the cooker" 15.12.2000
We take a look at what the not so distant horizon holds for homes in the technological age. Is it realistic to expect our homes really be talking to the supermarkets to second-guess the shopping list, and if they will be, do we really want them to?
UK property on the web 24.11.2000
The Internet has been hailed as a revolutionary new medium for home buyers and sellers. We take a look at how the reality lives up to the ideal
A Big Slice of Green Cheese, Please! 29.09.2000
In response to a request from a site visitor we've done a little homework about the loony concept of laying claim to lunar land. Buying land on the moon, in other words.
Bulgaria – Invest On The Facts 29.09.2005
This guest article is all about why Bulgaria’s property story is based on fundamentally healthy changes in the country’s economic and political fortunes and its vibrant tourist sector.
Spain: does greater opportunity mean greater risk? 26.07.2005
With the change in legislation allowing overseas property to be invested in pension schemes comes the concern, particularly for the trustee, over due diligence and risk that may attach to some properties…
What does it cost to buy and run a home in Spain? 05.07.2005
This week our guest contributor from Spain sprinkles a few questions and answers about the cost of buying and running a property in Spain...
Looking for the right property in Spain 24.05.2005
In Spain, property is everyone’s favourite subject of conversation and advice can be confusing. This week our guest contributor, a real estate agency in Marbella, gives a professional view to the buyer's problem…
Something missing from their manifestos 26.04.2005
This week our viewpoint, which comes from a guest contributor, Bexon Hodson, looks at the housing pledges contained in the manifestos of the three main parties, and finds something missing...
Will selling now and buying back later save money? 18.01.2005
The concept of selling your property and renting whilst prices fall, then buying at the bottom of the market may seem a licence to print money..
London rentals and the 'reverse brain drain' 30.11.2004
What does the 'reverse brain drain' mean for the London rental market
Return of the missing London first-time buyer 09.11.2004
As London property prices stall or fall could this spark the return of the first-time buyer? Let’s look at both sides of the argument..
Selling your property in a stagnant market 28.09.2004
So you wanted to sell, but worry the market is about to crash? Here's a viewpoint from property experts..
A Guide to Venture Capital Trusts 03.03.2003
An introduction to Venture Capital Trusts (“VCTs”), which were launched by the Government in 1995 to encourage individuals to invest in a diversified portfolio of smaller UK companies..
Buying a property on the Greek island of Rhodes 24.02.2003
The Greek Islands are proving an increasingly popular choice with British buyers, Savvas Savvaidis, General Secretary of the Hellenic Association of Realtors explains why..
Buy To Let in South West London 04.05.2001
Exploring the buy to let market in South West London and why it is such a happy hunting ground for investor landlords...
Death of a salesman?
Is the Internet revolution really about to spell the end for traditional estate agents, or has it really just created even more new opportunities
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