The Rettie Blog

When it comes to the Southside of Edinburgh, the Rettie team know it well. From charming cafés to hidden boutiques, this vibrant part of the city is home to some of our favourite local gems. Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, the Southside offers a unique blend of culture, and character, wrapped up in its welcoming neighbourhoods.

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s a great time to reflect on what's been a turbulent yet transformative year in the UK mortgage market. The past 12 months have been shaped by many of the same forces that have dominated recent years - economic uncertainty, fluctuating interest rates, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical tensions.

No Matter Your EPC Rating, Claim Up to £2,000 for Green Home Improvements with Halifax.

So, you’re looking to buy your own home but finances are a bit tight. Luckily, you can always count on a little help from your friends, so you agree to invest in a property with a mate, spreading the costs between the two of you. Although this seems simple enough in principle, there are still legal considerations to bear in mind and documents you should have in place.

Interest rates have risen 14 times in short order from 0.10% in March 2020 to 5.25% in August 2023 where they have remained. Higher interest rates mean different things for different people. An increase in mortgage cost for borrowers versus investment return opportunities for those with savings. In this piece, we partner Rettie Financial Services and Hamilton Financial to look at the interest rate outlook, the impact of interest rates on personal finances and consider several scenarios and what it could mean for both savers and borrowers.

Are you a first time buyer who's been struggling to save up for a deposit on your dream home? Skipton Building Society may have the solution for you. They've launched a new mortgage product designed specifically for first time buyers who are currently renting. With this product, eligible applicants can borrow up to 100% LTV without needing a deposit, as long as they can demonstrate a track record of paying rent and household bills consistently for at least 12 months within the last 18 months.

After significant unpredictability and extensive media speculation, the Bank of England's decision to maintain the base interest rate at 5.25% came as a surprise. So, what are the implications for those considering their first home purchase or planning to relocate?

In a rapidly changing financial landscape, landlords are facing an unprecedented challenge: the Bank of England has increased the base interest rate a staggering 14 consecutive times. Gone are the days of sub-2% mortgage rates, making it imperative for landlords to rethink their mortgage strategies.

Take the first step towards owning your dream home in Scotland with Rettie Financial Services and the Low Cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT) Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) scheme.

Are you planning to buy or sell a property this spring? Then you need to be mortgage ready! Getting your finances in order, assessing your budget, and seeking independent mortgage advice can help you make informed decisions and find the right mortgage for your needs. That's why we've put together a helpful blog post that explains why being mortgage ready is key in the spring property market.

Moving day can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth experience. In this blog post, we share tips for preparing for moving day, including starting to pack early, labeling boxes clearly, notifying utilities, and arranging for professional help. If you're a homeowner with a mortgage, it's important to manage it carefully on moving day. Rettie Financial Services can help you with your mortgage renewal and ensure that you're getting the best deal for your needs.

Looking to buy a home in Scotland or the UK? This informative article covers the essential aspects of the home buying process, including the role of solicitors, negotiating property prices, reviewing home reports, and seeking mortgage advice. Discover how Rettie Financial Services can help you find the best mortgage deal. With this knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of home buying with ease.