Budget-Friendly Christmas: Money-Saving Tips for a Special Season

Christmas is a time for celebration, family, and creating special memories, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag so go for a Budget-Friendly Christmas. For many, budgeting is top of mind, and there are countless ways to make the season festive without overspending. Here’s how to enjoy a wonderful Christmas while keeping your finances in check.

1. Set a Realistic Budget for Gifts and Stick to It

Establishing a gift budget can save a lot of stress down the line for a Budget-Friendly Christmas. Think about who you really want to buy for and set an amount for each person. You don’t need to go big—some of the most cherished gifts are those with thought behind them rather than a high price tag. Also, consider “Secret Santa” with family or friends, where everyone buys for one person instead of all, keeping gift-giving affordable and fun.

Tip: Use budgeting apps or even simple lists on your phone to keep track of spending on gifts to stay on target.

2. Get Crafty with Homemade Gifts

Handmade gifts can be more meaningful than anything bought, and they’re often easier on your wallet. Ideas include homemade jams, cookies, bath salts, candles, or personalised Christmas ornaments. You can even make DIY gift baskets with small, thoughtful items, like hot chocolate sachets, marshmallows, and a cozy pair of socks, for a heartfelt gift that doesn’t cost the earth.

Tip: Check out online tutorials and print customised labels for an extra touch of charm.

3. Get the Guests Involved with Christmas Lunch

Hosting the entire Christmas meal for the extended family can be costly, so consider making it a “potluck” event where each guest brings a dish. Not only will this reduce your expenses, but it also allows everyone to contribute to the day. If you’re hosting, you might take care of the main dish, while family members bring starters, side dishes, and desserts.

Tip: Coordinate dishes ahead of time so you don’t end up with duplicates and can ensure a balanced, varied menu.

4. Decorate with Nature

Christmas decorations can be pricey, but nature offers many beautiful (and free!) alternatives. Gather pinecones, fallen or broken holly branches and other greenery from local parks or your garden. Arrange these items in vases, hang them as garlands, or use them as rustic place settings. If you already have decorations, consider reusing and mixing up the placement for a fresh look.

Tip: A little DIY goes a long way—try making dried orange slices or cinnamon stick bundles to add a festive scent and look to your decor.

5. Plan Affordable Family Activities

Spending time together doesn’t have to involve expensive outings. Some free or low-cost Christmas activities include:

• Christmas movie marathon: Pull out old favourites or explore new ones at home.
• Neighbourhood Christmas light walk: Take a stroll around your area to enjoy festive lights and decorations.
• Christmas baking: Gather the family to bake gingerbread men, mince pies, or other seasonal treats.
• DIY Christmas cards or decorations: Especially fun for families with young children, making cards or ornaments is a creative and inexpensive way to get into the holiday spirit.

6. Embrace Thrift and Second-Hand Shopping

If you’re looking for unique decorations or gifts, consider second-hand stores. You can often find Christmas decorations or gifts at a fraction of the cost in charity shops or online marketplaces like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local swap groups. This can also be a sustainable way to celebrate, reusing items that would otherwise go to waste.

Tip: Look for items you can upcycle, such as adding a fresh coat of paint to a frame or using fabric from old linens to make festive table runners.

7. Look for Free Festive Events

Throughout the UK, there are numerous free events during the Christmas season, from Christmas markets to light displays, concerts, and carol singing. Many of these events are perfect for families and can help build lasting holiday memories without any expense.

Tip: Check local community boards, libraries, or council websites to find free events in your area.

8. Consider a Christmas Savings Jar

To spread out the cost of Christmas, some families start saving in a Christmas jar or account. Set aside a small amount each week starting early in the year to relieve the financial pressure when December arrives. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure that you’ll have a little extra set aside for next Christmas.

Tip: Many UK banks and building societies offer Christmas savings accounts to help keep these funds separate from regular savings.

9. Shop Smart and Early for Deals and a Budget-Friendly Christmas

Buying early often gives you access to better deals and can help spread out the cost of Christmas. Many shops have sales in the autumn, and major events like Black Friday in November offer opportunities to buy gifts or decorations at reduced prices. Planning ahead also gives you more time to compare prices and make smarter purchases.

Tip: Sign up for retailer newsletters and watch for sales at your favourite shops to stay on top of the best deals.

10. Create Your Own Christmas Traditions

Some of the best holiday memories come from traditions that don’t involve spending much money. Starting a Christmas Eve tradition, such as reading a story by the fire, having a family game night, or making hot chocolate together, can be just as special as more costly festivities. Little rituals add to the magic of Christmas and bring everyone together.

Tip: Think about what matters most to your family and create traditions that reflect those values and interests and a Budget-Friendly Christmas.

In Summary

Celebrating Budget-Friendly Christmas without overspending doesn’t mean cutting back on joy or fun. By focusing on thoughtful gifts, home-crafted decorations, and meaningful activities, you can create a memorable and magical holiday season. With these tips, you’ll not only keep costs down but may also discover new traditions and ways to celebrate that become lasting parts of your Christmas experience.

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28^th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House
For the FCA register go to Register Home Page

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Top Tips to Keep Your Car Safe from Clever Thieves

In an age where our cars are more advanced than ever, so too are the methods used by car thieves so you need to Keep Your Car Safe. Today’s criminals are tech-savvy, using everything from signal jammers to relay attacks to outsmart security systems and steal vehicles in a flash.

But don’t worry – there are clever, practical steps you can take to stay one step ahead. From choosing the right parking spot to adding some good old-fashioned visual deterrents, these tips will help keep your car safe and secure, no matter how smart the criminals get. Read on to discover how to Keep Your Car Safe from modern-day thieves and drive with peace of mind:

1. Don’t Rely on Just Your Key Fob Locking up is a given, but double-check every time. Thieves can use signal jammers to keep cars unlocked, leaving your vehicle vulnerable. If you’re parking in a high-risk area, it’s worth checking each door – it might seem like a hassle, but it’s worth the peace of mind.

2. Protect Against ‘Relay Attacks’ Relay attacks are on the rise, with thieves amplifying your key’s signal from inside your home. Block them out by storing your keys in a metal box or signal-blocking pouch.

3. Pick the Right Parking Spot Opt for well-lit, CCTV-monitored spots or Park Mark-approved car parks. Thieves are more likely to avoid vehicles in open, visible spaces.

4. Leave No Temptation Behind Clear out belongings – even a coat or loose change on display can tempt a thief. If you have a parcel shelf, leave it open to show there’s nothing to steal.

5. Detach and Conceal Electronics Take your sat-nav and detachable stereo front with you, and wipe away suction marks that could hint at valuables.

6. Equip Your Car with Extra Security Consider adding a car alarm, immobiliser, or GPS tracker. Not only can these reduce insurance premiums, but they also make your car less attractive to thieves.

7. Old-School Deterrents Still Work Wheel locks, pedal locks, and etched windows are making a comeback. These visible deterrents often convince thieves to move on to an easier target.

8. Keep Keys Out of Sight Never leave your keys by the door – some thieves use wire hooks to fish them out through letterboxes! Store them out of sight, but avoid hiding them in bedrooms where a determined intruder could put your safety at risk.

9. Keep Documents at Home Don’t leave logbooks or personal documents in the car. These could make it easier for thieves to sell your car and increase your risk of identity fraud.

10. Wheel Locks for Your Alloys Locking wheel nuts are a low-cost way to protect your alloys from being snatched by opportunistic thieves.

11. Stay Secure in Traffic In traffic jams, keep windows up, doors locked, and valuables out of sight to deter anyone who might take advantage of a slow-moving car.

12. Never Leave Your Engine Running Avoid the temptation to leave your car running while it warms up – it’s an open invitation for a quick getaway theft.

13. Join a Neighbourhood Watch Joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme adds a layer of community protection. Together, residents can keep an eye out for suspicious activity, keeping the area safer for everyone.

By staying one step ahead and following these tips, you’ll help to make your car a less appealing target for thieves looking for an easy win.
For information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House
For info on the FCA go to Register Home Page

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28^th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Does Your Mortgage Deal Still Fit Your Needs?

Are you on the mortgage deal that fits your current circumstances? In today’s ever-changing financial landscape, it’s easy for mortgage deals to become outdated before you know it, and increasingly important to be aware of what’s out there that could be of interest to you.

Mortgage advice at your fingertips

We’re here to support you for every step of the way, not only from getting your first mortgage, through to supporting you when it comes to remortgaging, and keeping you and your family protected.

Whether interest rates are climbing or falling, or new mortgage products are becoming available, the mortgage market is constantly shifting. For many homeowners, this means the deal you originally signed up for may not always be the most suitable one for your circumstances at this moment in time.

It’s therefore always worth getting in touch with us should your situation change and we can take a look at the options available to you.

Why It’s Important to Review Your Mortgage Deal Regularly

Unlike some other financial products, mortgage deals have a set period that they run for – whether it’s a variable rate or tracker mortgage that is renewed every few years, or a fixed rate mortgage that runs for two, five or ten years, for example.

After these fixed periods expire, lenders may automatically move you onto your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR). The SVR is usually higher than the rates on fixed, tracker, or discount mortgage products, potentially leading to higher monthly repayments. Regularly reviewing your mortgage allows you to avoid being caught on the SVR and instead, ensures you’re always on a competitive deal.

Moreover, many mortgage products offer introductory rates that can seem attractive but might not remain so over time. By regularly comparing what’s on the market, you can catch these shifts early and lock in a better deal if one becomes available.

Check out the Latest Mortgage Deals We’ve made it easier than ever to see what’s available with our easy-to-use mortgage comparison tool. Simply input your information, and you’ll be able to compare a range of competitive mortgage deals from leading providers. But remember, a tool can only provide the numbers—it’s the conversation with an adviser that can make those numbers work for you.

Don’t Wait Until Your Current Deal Ends

If you’re already on a mortgage, checking your options isn’t just for those whose deals are about to end. Sometimes, the benefits of switching can outweigh the costs of any early repayment charges. It’s a chance to take control of your finances, potentially lower your monthly payments, or even reduce the overall term of your mortgage.

So, it doesn’t hurt to see what deals are out there, and take a look at the tool here to explore the current mortgage offers. If you see something of interest, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and let us help you to make informed choices that reflect your own financial goals and align with your current circumstances – after all, we’re in a fast-moving marketplace and life changes quickly.

We’ll be able to talk you through your existing deal and examine if there’s anything out there that can provide a greater fit with your current circumstances, and provide mortgage guidance for the future, matched to your needs.

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28^th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House
To see the FCA register go to Register Home Page

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Rising Demand for Chain-Free Homes as Stamp Duty Deadline Approaches

With a significant surge in demand for homes that are chain-free, the UK property market is buzzing as buyers seek a speedy move to beat the looming stamp duty hike due to the Stamp Duty Deadline. A recent report by Zoopla highlights that 32% of homes currently on the market are listed as chain-free, a significant draw for those keen to finalise their purchase before the April deadline.¹

Changes are Coming in April 2025

The reason for this urgency? From 1 April, the threshold at which first-time buyers start paying stamp duty will drop back to £300,000 from its current level of £425,000.² This change means that a first-time buyer purchasing a property valued at £425,000 would face a stamp duty bill of £6,205, whereas previously they paid none.³ The costs climb even higher for properties priced between £425,000 and £625,000, with buyers facing an additional £11,250.³

Not only first-time buyers but also home movers are affected by the changes. From April, the stamp duty threshold for these buyers will be reduced from £250,000 to £125,000, potentially adding up to £2,500 in extra costs. This has led to a heightened interest in chain-free homes, with Zoopla reporting a 9% spike in views and a 33% increase in buyer enquiries.³

The benefits of a chain-free property

Why chain-free? For many, it’s the promise of a smoother, quicker purchase. In a chain-free sale, there’s no need to wait for the seller to find their next home, significantly reducing the chances of delays or the sale falling through. “Now is a great time to look for properties, with more chain-free homes available than in previous months,” said Izabella Lubowiecka, senior property researcher at Zoopla. She adds that many chain-free homes result from circumstances such as inherited properties, investors offloading assets, or households merging from two homes into one.³

Location of Property               England               Northern Ireland               Scotland               Wales             

Do you currently own a property?               No, I’m a first-time buyer               Yes, I currently own a property               No, but I have owned a property in the past             

How will you use the property?               Live in property               Buy-to-let               Holiday home             

Property Value (£) Calculate

Additionally, looming council tax hikes for second homes, set to take effect in April 2025, are prompting some investors to sell sooner rather than later.³ These properties, often marketed as chain-free, may offer an attractive option for those eager to beat the upcoming financial changes. “More investors and second homeowners are choosing to sell due to these policy shifts, adding to the supply of chain-free homes on the market,” notes property expert Matt Thompson of Chestertons.³

While a chain-free purchase may expedite the buying process, it often comes with a premium. Sellers, recognising the high demand for chain-free properties as the Stamp Duty Deadline gets nearer, are charging between 3% to 7% more, depending on the property’s location and condition. Based on Halifax’s average property price of £294,000, this could translate to an additional cost of between £8,820 and £20,580.³

For those eager to move quickly and avoid potential stamp duty hikes on the Stamp Duty Deadline, paying a little extra for a chain-free home could be worth the investment. However, with demand still outstripping supply, competition remains fierce. As April 2025 approaches, the rush for chain-free properties is only expected to intensify, making this a dynamic and competitive time in the UK property market.

Sources:

1. Zoopla (2024) House Price Index: September 2024. Available at: https://www.zoopla.co.uk/discover/property-news/house-price-index-september-2024/ [Accessed 11 Nov 2024]
2. BBC News (2024) Stamp duty: What is it, how much is it and how is it changing?. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-53319433 [Accessed 11 Nov 2024]
3. This is Money (2024) Two thirds of homes on market are chain-free, as buyers seek a quick move ahead of stamp duty hike. Available at: https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-14060069/Two-thirds-homes-market-chain-free-buyers-seek-quick-ahead-stamp-duty-hike.html [Accessed 11 Nov 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28^th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
For more mortgage advice go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

The Bank of England Reduces Interest Rates to 4.75% The Bank of England has announced that interest rates are to be reduced again, this time going down to 4.75%1. This is the second reduction in interest rates in recent times, following a long period of interest rate rises, where they peaked at a 16-year high of 5.25%.2 What could the Interest rates reduction announcement mean for my mortgage? If you have a fixed-rate mortgage then there won’t be any immediate changes, however reductions in the Bank of England base rate may mean that lenders start to offer more attractive deals in the coming months ahead. If you have a fixed-rate mortgage period coming to an end soon, then it’s the ideal time to get in touch to discuss your options accordingly. If you have a variable-rate mortgage, have a Bank of England tracker mortgage, or are on the Standard Variable Rate (SVR), then you may start to see changes to your monthly mortgage repayments, depending upon your lender and the deal that you have. Let us see how we can help We are here to provide you with the advice and guidance you need, and help with any queries you may have. There’s an overwhelming amount of information online, and some of it can be conflicting or confusing, so this is where we are here to help you. We would recommend that you contact us to let us look at your individual circumstances and provide bespoke information to allow you to make educated decisions. It’s the ideal time to talk about your mortgage The mortgage market is constantly evolving, and it’s a great time to start looking at your mortgage, whether you’re looking at moving home or have a remortgage coming up and want to know how much it could cost you. Chances are, the rates may be considerably different to your last remortgage, however these recent changes may be starting to soften the blow and you may be pleasantly surprised by the options available. It’s our mission to provide tailored mortgage advice for your exact situation, and can look across a wide range of deals not found on the High Street, so please book an appointment to see how we can help you. Please note, your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.  Sources: Bank of England (2024) Current Bank Rate. Available at: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/ [Accessed 5th November 2024] Bank of England (2024) Official Bank Rate History. Available at: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/boeapps/database/Bank-Rate.asp [Accessed 5th November 2024] All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 7th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.     YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Colin Warburton trading as The Finance House is an Appointed Representative of HL Partnership Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Terms and conditions apply. A fee may be charged. Full details will be provided before you proceed, if you wish to use our services.