Surprising things that affect your credit score

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Your credit score plays a major role in shaping your financial health, determining everything from the mortgage deal you secure to the cost of insurance. It’s no secret that missed payments, credit card debt and bankruptcies can impact your score significantly. But some lesser-known factors might surprise you.  Let’s explore some of the potentially surprising […]

How to avoid energy theft

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Energy theft is a growing issue that can cause significant financial losses, legal complications, and safety risks for landlords and homeowners alike. Whether you’re renting out a property or simply trying to maintain your own home, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of energy theft and take the right steps to prevent it. […]

Your complete guide to shared ownership leases

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For many, shared ownership offers an affordable way to combine the benefits of renting and owning a home. However, before you dive into this option, it’s important to understand what shared ownership leases entail and how they work. Related: How to sell a shared ownership property What is shared ownership? Shared ownership is a government-backed […]

What problems do surveyors look for?

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Surveys play an integral role in the home buying process, but many people still overlook their importance. Let’s take a look at what surveyors can uncover, why having a survey carried out is often essential, and what to do if your survey flags up issues.  Do I need a survey if I’m buying a house? […]

How to remove a name from a joint mortgage

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When two or more people take out a mortgage together, they share both the responsibility of repaying the loan and the ownership of the property. However, life circumstances can change, and there may come a time when one person needs to remove their name from a joint mortgage. Let’s take a look at the potential […]

Rent collection: DIY vs. letting agent

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Receiving rent in full and on time is integral to keeping your buy-to-let up and running. This is why many landlords opt for managed rent collection services – but how does it work? In this guide, we’ll discuss the differences between DIY rent collection and managed rent collection and how you could benefit from the […]

How to set the right asking price for your property

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The most crucial choice you’ll have to make when selling is the asking price, so it’s important to consider it carefully. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of establishing your asking price to ensure that you get it right the first time. The importance of realistic pricing Initially, you may have considered […]

The landlord’s guide to tax return

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As a landlord, it is critical that you understand your tax obligations to remain legally compliant. You are required to pay income tax on your rental income, which is done by completing a self-assessment tax return. Let’s take a look at how to calculate your rental income and complete your tax return. Looking to expand […]

The risks of gifting property

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Gifting your property to children or grandchildren is not only a lovely gesture; it also can make financial sense, but there are some risks to be aware of. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the potential pitfalls of gifting property to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you […]

What to do if your mortgage application fails

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Having your mortgage application rejected can be devastating, especially if you’ve got your heart set on a home. But mortgage application failures aren’t uncommon, and you certainly shouldn’t let it discourage you from finding your next home. Let’s take a look at the steps you can take to improve your chances for future approval. Why […]

What is ground rent?

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If you’re a leaseholder, you’re probably familiar with the term ‘ground rent’. But what exactly is the purpose of ground rent, and how does it affect you? Let’s take a look at what ground rent is, its legalities, and its impact on property value. Contact your local Ellis & Co branch for expert advice and […]

Everything you need to know about surveys

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The last thing you want is to discover a serious fault with the property you just bought. The best way to protect against this is by carrying out a home survey, which can flag up any issues with the home before exchange of contracts. Let’s take a look at the ins and out of home […]