Comfort, character, and homes that feel lived in. If 2025 was the year people tried to make their homes look perfect, 2026 looks more like the year people want their homes to feel good. Across the interior trend write-ups so far, there is a clear shift away from show-home styling and towards spaces that support real life: friends coming round, hobbies taking up space, a reading chair that actually gets used, and a home that reflects the people living in it. Here are a few of the themes that keep cropping up, and why they might be resonating right now. The joy-first homeThis trend is less about a specific colour palette and more about permission. Permission to choose things because you like them, not because they are neutral, safe, or "what you are meant to do". That might mean brighter colour, playful details, or simply making space for the things you enjoy. There is also a practical side to it. Homes are being used harder than ever, and people are choosing items that encourage connection, whether that is hosting family, having friends round, or setting up a corner for a hobby. Digital escape cornersOne of the most interesting trends is the rise of small "digital escape" spaces. It is not about building a library room. It is more like claiming a corner: a comfortable chair, lighting that feels warm, and a spot where your phone is not the main character. Call it a reading nook, a journalling chair, or just a quiet corner. The point is the same: people are making room for a breather at home, even in small spaces. Cocooning bedroomsThis one is not going anywhere. The focus is on comfort and sleep, but without the sterile feel. Expect softer textures, better lighting, and bedrooms that feel nurturing rather than purely functional. It is also a reminder that interiors are not only about how a room looks, but how it supports your day-to-day life. A bedroom that helps you switch off is not a luxury idea, it is a quality-of-life idea. Lived-in, layered spacesAnother theme showing up across 2026 interiors is a move towards rooms that look collected over time. Less "everything matches", more "this is us". That might look like mixing old and new, using vintage pieces, choosing darker woods with character, or simply allowing a room to feel like it has been used. People are showing rooms as they are actually lived in, and it is making homes feel warmer and more personal. Natural materials and tactile finishesWood, textured fabrics, and handcrafted details are everywhere in the trend forecasts. There is something grounding about natural materials, especially when life feels fast and digital. It is not about chasing perfection. It is about creating a space that feels real. What does this have to do with moving home?Nothing in this blog is about mortgages, but trends like these often pop up when people are reassessing how they live. Sometimes that results in a refresh of a room. Sometimes it results in bigger questions, like whether a home still fits what you need now. If you have found yourself thinking about space, comfort, or what you want your home life to feel like this year, you are not the only one.

As the year draws to a close, many of us start thinking about fresh starts and new goals. It’s also the perfect time to take a closer look at your mortgage. Whether your current deal is due to end soon, your financial situation has changed, or you simply want to make sure you’re still on the best possible rate, a quick review now could set you up for a stronger 2026. Why a mortgage review matters Your mortgage is likely to be your biggest monthly expense, but it’s also one of the easiest areas to forget about once it’s set up. Rates, products and personal circumstances change all the time, so what suited you a year or two ago might not be the best fit now. A mortgage review doesn’t have to mean making changes straight away. It’s about understanding your position, checking what’s available, and identifying opportunities to save money or make your mortgage work harder for you. If your fixed rate is ending soon If your fixed rate is due to end in the next six to twelve months, it’s worth acting early. When your deal finishes, you’ll usually move onto your lender’s standard variable rate, which is often higher than a new fixed or tracker deal. Starting the process early gives us time to review all the available options and secure a new rate in advance. Some lenders will allow you to lock in a deal several months before your current one ends, so you won’t miss out if rates change in the meantime. If your circumstances have changed Life rarely stays still. Perhaps you’ve had a pay rise, started working for yourself, or want to borrow more for home improvements. Maybe you’d like to reduce your payments to free up cash for other goals. Whatever the reason, reviewing your mortgage can help you make adjustments that support your current lifestyle and long-term plans. It’s all about making sure your mortgage is working for you, not the other way around. If you want to make overpayments or shorten your term The start of a new year often inspires people to focus on financial wellbeing. If you’re in a position to make small overpayments, or you want to see how much time and money you could save by shortening your term, I can help you run through the numbers. Even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference over time, and it’s always better to have a clear picture before making changes. Planning ahead for 2026 The mortgage market is still finding its balance after a few years of volatility, but there are reasons to be optimistic. Lenders are competing for business, and rates are beginning to stabilise. For homeowners and buyers, that creates opportunities to plan ahead with more confidence. A simple review now could give you peace of mind going into the new year. It’s a chance to tidy things up, explore your options, and know exactly where you stand. If you’d like to start 2026 on the right foot, get in touch and we’ll review your mortgage together. I’ll help you find the best way forward so you can move into the new year with clarity and confidence. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you start the year with a clear plan, confident decisions and a mortgage that works for you.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Most people picture getting a mortgage as a straightforward financial step, but for many it happens during some of the toughest moments in life. A new diagnosis, work worries, a relationship ending, juggling childcare, or coping with loss can all hit at the same time as making big decisions about a home. When everything feels up in the air, even looking at mortgage paperwork can feel like a mountain. The regulator acknowledges this too, noting that anyone can become vulnerable at any time. Stress, illness or major life changes can affect how well we take in information or how confident we feel making decisions. That’s where calm, clear support makes a real difference. It’s about explaining things in a way that feels manageable and giving people space to process what’s being discussed. It may mean checking understanding more often, slowing things down or adjusting communication to suit how someone feels on the day. Sometimes people value having someone they trust join a conversation with them. Sometimes they need information broken down into smaller parts. And sometimes they just need reassurance that it’s OK not to know everything straight away. The heart of it is simple: no one should feel alone with complicated decisions when they are already carrying a lot. Mortgage support isn’t only about products or repayments. It’s also about making a stressful moment feel a little less heavy, and helping someone move forward with clarity they can rely on. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Guiding you through the big decisions that shape your home, your finances and your future together.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

The Budget arrived with a lot of speculation, but in the end the main news for homeowners and first time buyers is that there were no dramatic changes to mortgage policy. However, several wider tax measures will influence household budgets and long term affordability, which is important for anyone thinking about buying or remortgaging. One of the biggest announcements is the continued freeze on income tax thresholds until 2031. Although the Chancellor chose not to raise income tax rates, keeping thresholds fixed means that more people will pay higher levels of tax over time. For anyone saving for a deposit, or balancing mortgage payments with other costs, this can reduce disposable income and make monthly budgeting tighter. There were also changes to dividend taxation which will affect some self employed workers and small business owners, particularly those who pay themselves partly through dividends. This will matter for many people across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas, as a large number of local firms, contractors and sole directors operate through limited companies. With higher dividend tax coming into effect from 2026, some households may see a reduction in take home income. The Budget did not introduce new housing schemes, nor did it extend existing schemes such as Help to Buy. There was no reduction in stamp duty and no new support aimed directly at first time buyers. For now, the housing market continues under the current system, with affordability shaped by interest rates, property prices and lender criteria rather than by new government intervention. On the positive side, inflation has continued to ease, which is helpful for future interest rate decisions. While the Budget does not influence mortgage rates directly, lower inflation reduces pressure on the Bank of England to keep rates high. Many homeowners and potential buyers will be watching this closely over the next year, especially as a significant number of fixed rate deals are due to end. The removal of the two child limit within the benefits system will help some families with their general household finances. However, for most working households, the bigger impact will come from threshold freezes and ongoing living costs. Energy, food and insurance remain notably higher than before the pandemic, which all plays into how confident people feel about taking on or maintaining a mortgage. Overall, the Budget delivered stability rather than major change for the mortgage world. The key message for homeowners and buyers is that affordability remains reliant on income, credit profile, deposit size and monthly expenditure. While tax changes may reduce disposable income for some people over the next few years, the underlying market conditions remain familiar. For anyone keeping an eye on their next steps, it will be useful to follow updates on inflation, interest rates and local property trends in Hertfordshire, as these will shape the opportunities available moving into the new year. If you would like to review your mortgage in light of the budget, please get in touch . Barry, The Mortgage Network - Guiding you through the big decisions that shape your home, your finances and your future together.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Buying a home with someone can be one of the most exciting steps you take. Whether it’s your partner, a family member or a friend, it can make buying more affordable and help you get on the property ladder sooner. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s worth understanding exactly what buying together means from a legal and financial point of view. A few simple conversations and the right advice early on can save a lot of stress later. How joint ownership works When two or more people buy a property together, there are usually two options for how the ownership is structured: joint tenants  or tenants in common . If you’re joint tenants , you both own the property equally. That means if one of you passes away, the other automatically inherits the whole property. This is common for couples buying a home to live in together. If you’re tenants in common , you each own a specific share of the property. That share can be equal or unequal depending on how much each person puts in. This is often used when one person contributes more to the deposit or when buying with a friend or relative. It also allows you to leave your share to someone else in your will if you choose. It’s important to decide which structure is right for you before you complete your purchase, as changing it later can involve legal costs and delays. Deposits and contributions When buying together, make sure it’s clear who is contributing what. Your solicitor can draw up a deed of trust  which sets out how much each person is putting in, how future payments will be made, and what happens if the property is sold or one person wants to move out. It might feel awkward to talk about these things, but it’s far easier to agree on the details while everyone’s on good terms than to face confusion or disagreement later on. Affordability and credit checks When you apply for a joint mortgage, both incomes are taken into account, which can help increase your borrowing power. However, both names also appear on the credit agreement, which means you’re each jointly responsible  for making the payments. If one person misses payments, it can affect both credit scores, even if the other has always paid on time. That’s why open communication about finances is so important before applying. If one person has a weaker credit history, we can look at the best way to structure your mortgage to protect both parties and still secure a competitive deal. Planning for the future No one likes to think about what happens if things change, but life has a way of surprising us. Whether you stay together or go your separate ways, having clear agreements in place means you’ll both know where you stand. It’s also worth thinking about protection policies, such as life insurance or income protection, to make sure your home is secure if something unexpected happens. Let’s get you on the same page Buying together can be a brilliant step forward, and with the right advice, it can be simple and stress-free. I can help you explore your mortgage options, understand the best ownership setup for your situation, and make sure you both feel confident about the decisions you’re making. If you’d like to talk through your plans or check what you could borrow together, get in touch and let’s make sure your home-buying journey starts on solid ground. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Guiding you through the big decisions that shape your home, your finances and your future together.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

When you think about paying off your mortgage, it’s easy to focus on the size of your monthly payment or the interest rate you’ve managed to secure. But one of the simplest and most effective ways to save money on your mortgage over time is something many people overlook: making overpayments . It might not sound exciting, but even a small extra payment can reduce how much interest you pay and shorten the life of your mortgage. It’s one of those quiet, powerful habits that can make a big difference in the long run. What is an overpayment? An overpayment is when you pay more than your regular monthly mortgage amount. This can be done as a one-off lump sum or by increasing your monthly payment  slightly on a regular basis. Most lenders will allow you to overpay up to 10% of your outstanding balance each year  without any early repayment charges, though this can vary depending on your lender and the type of mortgage you have. It’s always worth checking the details before making any extra payments. Why it matters When you make an overpayment, that money goes straight towards reducing your loan balance, not your interest. Because your interest is calculated on what you owe, even a modest overpayment can start saving you money immediately. For example, if you have a £200,000 mortgage with 20 years left and an interest rate of 5%, paying an extra £100 a month could save you more than £25,000 in interest  over the term and cut almost three years  off your mortgage. That’s the power of consistency. Small steps count You don’t need to make large overpayments for it to be worthwhile. Even small changes, like rounding up your monthly payment or using part of a work bonus, can have a meaningful effect over time. The key is to treat it as part of your routine. Setting up a small standing order each month or reviewing your budget once or twice a year can help you make overpayments without even noticing the difference. If your lender allows it, you can also make one-off payments whenever you have spare cash. Just remember to confirm there are no fees before doing so. Flexibility and peace of mind Overpayments aren’t just about saving money. They can also give you more control and flexibility later on. Reducing your mortgage balance early can mean smaller repayments in the future if you ever need to switch to interest-only for a short time or adjust your outgoings during a difficult period. It’s a form of financial resilience as much as it is a money-saving strategy. If you’re planning to remortgage soon, overpaying before you apply can also help you qualify for better rates. A lower loan-to-value ratio (the amount you borrow compared to the value of your property) often opens up more competitive options. Let’s see what’s right for you Before making overpayments, it’s worth having a quick chat so we can look at your current deal, the lender’s rules, and your overall financial goals. Sometimes it’s better to build up an emergency fund first or clear higher-interest debts before focusing on your mortgage. I can help you run the numbers and see how much of a difference even a small overpayment could make in your situation. If you’d like to find out how to make your mortgage work harder for you, get in touch and let’s look at the options together. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Supporting homeowners who want to save money, reduce stress and take control of their mortgage future.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

The Autumn Budget is due on 26 November , and although it might seem like something that only affects businesses or big investors, it can have a real impact on homeowners and anyone planning to buy. Each year, the Chancellor’s announcements can influence everything from housing schemes and taxes to the wider mortgage market. Even small changes in these areas can affect the decisions lenders make, how confident buyers feel, and what options are available. That’s why it’s always worth paying attention and getting ahead of any changes. What could change this year? There’s been plenty of speculation about what the government might focus on. Some of the main areas being discussed include: Stamp Duty This is one of the biggest talking points whenever a Budget comes around. Any change to Stamp Duty thresholds or reliefs can make a big difference to buyers, especially first-timers and those moving up the property ladder. A temporary cut or adjustment could bring more people into the market, while a rise might have the opposite effect. Help-to-Buy and housing schemes Government support for first-time buyers has been slowly winding down over the past few years, but there’s talk of new or revised schemes being introduced to help younger buyers get onto the ladder. If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, it could be worth keeping an eye on what’s announced. Landlord and property tax rules If you own a buy-to-let property, the Budget can have a big influence on your return. Tax changes, new rules for deductions, or adjustments to capital gains tax could alter the financial side of letting. Understanding these changes early can help you plan ahead. Interest rates and inflation forecasts While the Chancellor doesn’t set the Bank of England’s base rate, the Budget often gives clues about the government’s economic outlook. If the message is that inflation is coming under control, it could mean the base rate starts to fall next year. That would be welcome news for anyone due to remortgage in 2026. Why it matters to homeowners and buyers If your fixed rate is due to end in the next six to twelve months, the Budget could give you valuable insight into what might happen next. For example, if rates look likely to drop, you might choose to hold off fixing again straight away. On the other hand, if there’s any hint of financial tightening, securing a new deal early could save you money. For those planning to buy, changes to taxes, thresholds or government support can alter your budget and how far your deposit will stretch. Acting quickly after any new announcement can make a real difference, especially if the market reacts fast. How I can help you prepare I spend a lot of time analysing how these announcements translate into real-world effects for borrowers. After the Budget, I’ll be reviewing what’s changed and how it might affect different mortgage options. If you’re unsure what to do next, we can sit down and look at your situation together. Whether that means reviewing your existing deal, starting a remortgage application, or exploring first-time buyer options, I’ll help you make decisions based on facts, not speculation. Getting advice early means you’re ready to act quickly once we know what’s changing. It also gives you time to lock in a deal or prepare your paperwork before lenders adjust their rates. My take Budgets can feel uncertain, but they’re also a time of opportunity. By understanding what’s coming and how it affects you, we can put you in a strong position for whatever happens next. If you’d like to review your mortgage or talk about how the Autumn Budget could affect your plans, get in touch and we’ll go through it together. Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you make sense of market changes so you can make smart, confident choices about your home.   Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

What Every Homeowner Should Know Mortgages aren’t something most of us arrange every day. In fact, for many people, it’s a decision they only face every few years when their deal ends. That gap makes it easy to miss details or fall into traps that could cost you thousands over the life of your loan. The good news is, most pitfalls can be avoided with the right preparation and advice. Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make, and how to sidestep them.   Pitfall 1: Letting your deal end without acting When your fixed-rate or tracker deal finishes, you’ll usually be moved onto your lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR). This could be higher than your existing rate and may significantly increase your monthly payments. How to avoid it: Start looking at your options around six months before your deal ends. That gives you time to secure a new rate and avoid a last-minute rush.   Pitfall 2: Focusing only on the headline rate It’s tempting to jump at the lowest interest rate you see, but mortgages come with fees that can make a “cheap” deal far more expensive overall. Arrangement fees, valuation fees, and even early repayment charges can all affect the true cost. How to avoid it: Always look at the total cost over the fixed term, not just the rate. An adviser can run the numbers so you’re comparing like-for-like.   Pitfall 3: Ignoring changes in your circumstances Life rarely stands still. Maybe your income has changed, you’ve taken on new commitments, or your home’s value has increased since your last mortgage. If you don’t update your lender or adviser on these changes, you might miss out on deals that fit your situation better. How to avoid it: Review your mortgage in the context of your current life, not the circumstances you were in when you last fixed.   Pitfall 4: Not exploring all your options Many borrowers could choose sticking with a product transfer with their existing lender as it might be relatively quick and easy. While this can sometimes be the right choice, it can also mean missing out on better deals available through remortgaging. How to avoid it: Compare both routes, product transfer and remortgage. Convenience is valuable, but so is saving money.   Pitfall 5: Overstretching your budget It can be tempting to borrow the maximum amount offered, especially if you’re moving house or eyeing home improvements. But stretching yourself too thin leaves little room for unexpected costs, interest rate changes, or life’s surprises. How to avoid it: Be realistic about what you can comfortably afford, not just what you qualify for. A smaller mortgage with breathing space is often better than a bigger one that leaves you stressed.   Pitfall 6: Going it alone Comparison sites can be useful, but they rarely show the whole picture. Some lenders don’t advertise deals directly to the public, so customers’ individual circumstances might not be taken into consideration and the nuances of fees, terms, and conditions are easy to overlook if you’re not familiar with them. How to avoid it: Speak to a qualified mortgage adviser. They can access a wide range of mortgages and explain the pros and cons in plain English.   Avoiding common mortgage mistakes isn’t about being an expert in finance, it’s about knowing the risks and getting the right guidance. By planning ahead, comparing options properly, and seeking advice, you can make confident choices that save money, reduce stress, and support your long-term goals.   Barry, The Mortgage Network - Mortgage Adviser, here to help you avoid the pitfalls and make the most of your mortgage.

Your Mortgage Deal is Ending If your fixed-rate mortgage is coming to an end, you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners across the UK are in the same position, looking at their next step and wondering whether payments are about to go up, down, or sideways. The good news is that the mortgage market has started to settle after a turbulent few years. That means for some borrowers, the monthly cost of their mortgage could even fall when they move onto a new deal. For others, the priority will be avoiding a jump in payments by steering clear of their lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR). So, what are your options, and how do you know which one is right for you?   What happens when your deal ends When a fixed-rate mortgage finishes, you’re usually moved onto your lender’s SVR. This rate is almost always higher than the one you’ve been paying, and it can mean an immediate rise in monthly costs. That’s why acting early is so important. Most lenders will let you secure a new deal up to six months in advance, giving you time to plan rather than scramble. And crucially, acting early doesn’t mean rushing into the wrong choice, it’s about understanding your options before you’re forced onto a higher rate.   Option 1: Product transfer A product transfer  is where you stay with your current lender but switch onto a different deal. It’s usually straightforward, with no legal work, fewer checks, and faster turnaround. The positives: Simpler and quicker than a remortgage Often no need for a solicitor or valuation Ideal if you’re happy with your current lender and want minimal paperwork The limitations: You may not get the most competitive rate on the wider market Less flexibility if you want to change your loan amount or term A product transfer works well for people who value convenience and are happy with their lender. But it’s not always the cheapest option.   Option 2: Remortgage A remortgage means moving your mortgage to a new lender. It takes a little more time and involves some legal work, but it opens up the whole market of deals. The positives: Access to potentially lower interest rates Opportunity to adjust your loan term or borrow more (for home improvements, consolidating debt, or other needs) More choice and flexibility The limitations: The process can be slower May involve extra costs like valuation or arrangement fees More paperwork compared to a product transfer Remortgaging is often the right choice if you want to make changes or if your current lender’s deals aren’t competitive.   Why advice matters more than ever Deciding between a product transfer and a remortgage isn’t just about rates, it’s about your whole financial picture. Your income may have changed since you last fixed, your property value may have shifted, or you might have new goals like reducing your mortgage term or releasing equity. An adviser can look at all of these factors and guide you through the pros and cons of each option. I’ll also help you avoid the pitfalls that don’t make it into the headlines: early repayment charges, arrangement fees, or “headline” rates that aren’t actually the best fit once the small print is factored in.   Making the most of lower payments If you do find yourself with a lower monthly payment on your next deal, think carefully about how to use that extra breathing space. Some borrowers choose to increase overpayments and reduce the term of their mortgage. Others use the saving to boost emergency funds or pensions. Whatever you choose, treating the change as an opportunity rather than just a windfall can make a real difference in the long run.   The takeaway When your mortgage deal comes to an end, you’ve got choices, and the right one depends on your circumstances, not just market chatter. Product transfers  offer speed and simplicity. Remortgages  open the door to wider choice and potential savings. Acting early  gives you more control and avoids a costly slide onto the SVR. Most importantly, you don’t have to make the decision alone. Speaking to an adviser means you get tailored advice based on your situation and goals, not a one-size-fits-all answer. Please get in touch .   Barry, The Mortgage Network Independent Mortgage Adviser, helping you make confident decisions about your home and your future.

Your mortgage is likely your biggest monthly outgoing, so the thought of missing a payment can feel overwhelming. With household budgets still stretched by rising living costs, it’s a concern more and more people are quietly facing. The important thing to know is this: you are not powerless . Missing a payment doesn’t have to mean the end of the road, but acting early makes all the difference. Here’s what you need to know if you’re worried about falling behind.   1. Don’t ignore the problem It’s tempting to bury your head in the sand, but mortgage arrears can escalate quickly. Late payments affect your credit record and can lead to charges that make the situation even harder. Contacting your lender early shows that you’re serious about finding a solution, and in most cases, they’ll want to work with you.   2. Speak to your lender straight away Most lenders have dedicated teams for borrowers who are struggling. They may be able to: Arrange a temporary payment plan Offer a payment holiday (in some circumstances) Extend your mortgage term to reduce monthly costs Switch you to a different type of mortgage product that better suits your budget These options are much easier to access if you contact them before you miss a payment.   3. Review your wider finances It’s not always just about the mortgage. Look at your overall income and spending: Can you cut back on non-essential outgoings, even temporarily? Are you entitled to any benefits or support schemes that could boost your income? Could a small change, like adjusting your direct debits or consolidating other debts, free up enough to cover the shortfall? An adviser can help you look at your whole financial picture, not just the mortgage in isolation.   4. Know your rights Lenders in the UK must treat customers fairly, especially if you’re facing financial difficulty. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) sets strict rules about how they should behave. That means you have the right to be listened to, offered clear information, and considered for forbearance measures before more serious action is taken.   5. Explore longer-term solutions If your financial situation is unlikely to improve quickly, it may be time to look at more structured changes: Remortgaging  to a cheaper deal (if your credit record allows it) Extending the mortgage term  to spread the cost Switching to interest-only  for a period (though this means you’ll pay more over the life of the loan) These options carry pros and cons, but having them explained by a professional adviser can give you confidence that you’re making the right choice.   6. Don’t suffer in silence Money worries can take a huge toll on your mental health. Talking to a professional doesn’t just ease the financial pressure, it often lifts the emotional weight too. Whether it’s an adviser, a debt charity, or a trusted friend, sharing the problem is the first step to solving it.   Missing a mortgage payment is a serious issue, but it’s not the end of the story. By acting early, speaking to your lender, and seeking advice, you can take control of the situation before it spirals. Remember: you don’t have to figure this out alone. As a mortgage adviser, my job is to guide you through your options, explain the pros and cons, and help you find the path that fits your circumstances, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.   Barry, The Mortgage Network Mortgage Adviser, here to help you protect your home and your peace of mind.

Should You Lock in Your Mortgage Rate Before It’s Too Late? Mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster these past few years. Homeowners coming to the end of their fixed terms are asking the same question: “Should I lock into a new deal now, or hold out in the hope rates fall further?” It’s not an easy call. The Bank of England base rate has settled at 4%, a relief compared to the peak of 2023, but no one has a crystal ball. Some experts predict small drops in the next year, while others warn rates could stick around current levels for longer. So how do you decide what’s best for you?   First, understand your current position Before thinking about the wider economy, look at your own mortgage: When does your current deal end?  If it’s within the next six months, decisions are more urgent. Most lenders let you secure a new rate up to six months in advance. What’s your loan-to-value (LTV)?  The more equity you have, the better the rates you can access. House prices in your area matter here. How affordable are your current payments?  If your budget is already stretched, stability may matter more than chasing the lowest possible rate.   Why some people choose to refix now Locking in a new rate today gives you certainty. Even if rates fall slightly in the future, you know exactly what you’ll be paying for the next two, three, or five years. Benefits of refixing now: Protection from sudden market shocks. Peace of mind knowing your monthly payments won’t change. The ability to plan your finances with confidence. For households worried about affordability, that stability can outweigh the risk of missing out on a slightly cheaper deal later.   Why others prefer to wait On the flip side, some borrowers are watching the forecasts and hoping for better deals down the line. If your current mortgage doesn’t end until late 2026, or you can comfortably afford your payments, waiting may give you more flexibility. Possible benefits of waiting: Access to lower rates if the market softens. Avoiding early repayment charges if you’re still locked into your existing deal. Keeping your options open if your financial circumstances are about to change (promotion, house move, inheritance). Of course, waiting carries risks. Rates might not fall as quickly as you’d like, or they could even rise again.   The “best of both worlds” approach One option many borrowers don’t realise is available: you can often secure a new deal up to six months ahead of time  and still keep an eye on the market. If rates drop before your deal completes, you can usually switch to the lower offer. This approach lets you lock in protection while keeping some flexibility. It’s not suitable for every situation, but it’s worth exploring with a mortgage adviser.   Key questions to ask yourself When deciding whether to refix now or wait, consider: How much could your payments increase if you did nothing and rolled onto the lender’s standard variable rate? Could you handle higher monthly costs for six months, a year, or longer? Do you prioritise peace of mind, or chasing the lowest possible deal? What other financial goals (pensions, investments, savings) might be affected by your mortgage costs?   Why personal advice matters more than ever Headlines can be misleading. One week it’s “rates are falling,” the next it’s “rates could rise again.” The truth is, markets are unpredictable, but your personal circumstances aren’t. That’s where a mortgage adviser comes in. An adviser can look at your exact situation, your income, property value, and long-term plans, and give tailored guidance on whether to refix now or wait. The takeaway There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the refix question. For some, stability today is worth more than potential savings tomorrow. For others, waiting makes sense if their situation allows it. What matters most is making an informed choice based on your circumstances, not just market headlines. For tailored advice, please get in touch . Barry, The Mortgage Network Helping you make the right mortgage decisions with clarity and confidence.

The car is loaded, the bags are packed, and just like that, your child is off to university. You come home to a house that suddenly feels a little bigger, and quieter, than it did before. That once-busy bedroom is now an empty space, and while it tugs at the heartstrings, it also opens up possibilities. So, what can you do with that extra room? Here are some ideas that might spark inspiration (and perhaps soften the silence).   A home office that really works Over the last few years, working from home has become the norm for many people. If you’ve been balancing your laptop on the kitchen table or sharing space with laundry piles, now’s the perfect chance to create a dedicated office. A proper desk, decent chair, and a little thoughtful décor can transform the room into a productive, comfortable workspace. And when your child visits? The laptop folds away, the bed folds out, and it’s still their room too.   A fitness or wellbeing space Gym memberships aren’t for everyone, and squeezing in exercise at home can be tricky without space. That empty room could be turned into your personal fitness zone, whether it’s yoga mats and resistance bands, or a couple of weights and a stationary bike. For something calmer, think about a meditation nook, reading space, or even a craft room where you can finally spread out those projects without clearing them away for dinner.   Guest room upgrade If the room already has a bed, why not elevate it into a proper guest room? Fresh bedding, softer lighting, and a few thoughtful touches can make it welcoming for friends, family, or even the child who’s just gone off to uni (they will be back, with laundry in tow).   Hobby haven Whether it’s painting, sewing, music, or gaming, hobbies thrive on having space. Many parents put their own interests on hold while raising kids, but now could be the time to reclaim that creative spark. An empty room is the perfect excuse to finally set up the easel, the keyboard, or the sewing machine.   A quiet retreat Not every room has to be practical. Sometimes what you need most is a sanctuary, a quiet space with a comfortable chair, shelves of books, and a door you can close when life gets noisy. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A cosy reading corner or a calming space with plants and soft lighting can do wonders.   A mix-and-match approach Of course, there’s no rule that says the room has to have one purpose. A sofa bed can turn a home office into a guest room. A set of shelves can make a hobby space double as storage. With a little creativity, you can have the best of both worlds.   Remember: it’s still theirs too One final thought, as much as you might be itching to transform the space, it’s worth remembering that your child may still want to come home to something that feels familiar. Keeping a few personal touches, posters, photos, or even their bedding, can make their return visits feel more comfortable.   The takeaway An empty bedroom doesn’t have to feel like a loss. It can be an opportunity to add something valuable to your home, whether that’s productivity, relaxation, or creativity. And when your child comes back, they’ll see that their space has evolved but is still part of home.   Barry, The Mortgage Network Mortgage Adviser, here to support homeowners through every stage of life.