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  What is Track Record Mortgage? A mortgage for renters We use your track record of paying rent to work out what you may be able to borrow. Fixed rate for 5 years The interest rate on this mortgage is fixed for 5 years, meaning your rate won't change during this time period. No deposit needed We will accept a deposit of less than 5%, but you don't need a deposit to apply for this mortgage. No completion fee We won't charge you any fees for the completion of this mortgage. Who can apply? You haven't owned a property in the UK in the last 3 years You are aged 21 or over You have no missed payments on debts / credit commitments in the last 6 months You want to borrow up to £600,000 You're not looking to buy a new build flat You're not looking to buy a property in Northern Ireland. Sole applicants: ·          You've paid all rent for 12 months in a row, within the last 18 mon...

          Back to School: A Good Time to Get Your Finances Organised   When the summer holidays end and children head back to school, most families suddenly find themselves with a bit more routine, and a bit more breathing space. It’s often the first moment in months where life feels organised again. That makes September one of the best times of the year to get your wider finances organised too. Many people only look at their financial picture when something big is happening; usually a house purchase, a remortgage, or a change in circumstances. But once the school term starts, you’re already back into “admin mode”, and it’s the perfect moment to check the things that often get left behind. Have you lost track of your old workplace pensions? Most people have several old pensions from previous jobs. They’re easy to forget about, and even easier to put off dealing with. But they can make a real difference to your long‑term plans.   Ask yourself: Do yo...

    DIY Investing: Are You Really in Control of Your Money?   If you’d like to check whether your DIY portfolio is still working for you, I can introduce you to my financial planning partner, John Kirkwood at Quilter, who can provide full financial planning support when needed.   Many people manage their own investments, and for some, it feels empowering. But DIY investing only works when you truly understand what’s happening behind the scenes. Without the right information, a portfolio can quietly drift off course, exposing you to risks you didn’t intend to take.   Below are a few simple questions that every DIY investor should be able to answer confidently. If any of them give you pause, it may be worth getting a second opinion.   1.        Where is your money actually invested?   Most DIY investors can name the platform they use; but not the underlying funds, sectors, or regions. Your long‑term out...