Property news archive

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/post_olympic_regeneration_in_east_london_29284.jpg

Post-Olympic regeneration: Bethnal Green, Bow and Stepney

East London is still enjoying the benefits of post-Olympics with a regeneration boom that involves new affordable developments in areas such as Bethnal Green, Bow and Stepney.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_evening_standard_new_homes_awards_29318.jpg

New Homes Awards 2013: the winners

This year's London Evening Standard New Homes Awards, hosted by comedian Vic Reeves and England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, praised thoughtful design and spacious interiors at a range of new homes developments.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_new_homes_update_bermondsey_29263.jpg

London's latest new homes update

Take your pick from London's newest properties, including 800 new homes in a former Bermondsey biscuit factory; family houses in Muswell near near the top-performing Fortismere School; and hundreds of new flats on the leafy slopes of Shooters Hill.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/first_olympic_village_homes_up_for_rent_29241.jpg

First Olympic village homes up for rent

Relaunched as East Village this week, the Stratford athletes' quarters is set to become home to thousands of London's renters in streets named with the Olympics in mind — from Prize Walk and Cheering Lane to Medals Way and Celebration Avenue.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/clerkenwell_design_week_2013_29219.jpg

Clerkenwell Design Week 2013

Discover one of London's most creative neighbourhoods at this year's Clerkenwell Design Week. This three-day event showcases the hottest trends in design, architecture and cutting-edge furniture.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/northern_tube_line_property_price_divide_29213.jpg

New homes in London's Zone 1 on a Zone 2 budget

Our exclusive research shows a "price wall" formed by the Northern line, with property values to the east less than half those in the west. We reveal the emerging lower-value districts in Zone 1 for buyers on a Zone 2 budget.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_canning_town_stepney_green_29157.jpg

Canning Town and Stepney Green: new low-cost flats

Resourceful first-time buyers are spotting value for money in the up-and-coming east London neighbourhoods of Canning Town and Stepney Green, where new low-cost flats are being built within an easy reach of the City.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/tilly_wood_living_in_rented_house_mortgage_free_29151.jpg

Tilly Wood swaps family home for a mortgage-free life in London's Royal Parks

Tilly Wood, ex-wife of Ronnie Wood's son Jesse, has stepped off the property ladder to move into a rented house in one of London's Royal Parks and and now enjoys a mortgage-free life in a family home she doesn't have to worry about maintaining.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/craft_collect_2013_saatchi_gallery_29145.jpg

Crafts for the home at COLLECT

Today's contemporary craft makers produce objects that are both striking and solidly functional - and they're quickly rising in value. Don't miss Britain's best designer-makers and international exhibitors at this year's COLLECT show.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smart_moves_20130501_hackney_brentford_clerkenwell_29120.jpg

London's new homes: Brentford, Hackney, Croydon and Clerkenwell

Take your pick from London's newest properties, including riverside flats with courtyard gardens in Brentford; canal-fronting flats in Hackney; penthouses in Croydon and roof gardens in Clerkenwell Quarter.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/help_to_buy_scheme_affordable_29104.jpg

A guide to the Help to Buy scheme

Overcoming the deposit hurdle is a huge attraction in London where first-time buyers typically have to put down £60,000 to £80,000. Discover how to get onto the property ladder with the Help to Buy scheme.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can we sell alcohol from our home?

My husband and I have been thinking about selling our friend's homemade wine from our garage to friends and neighbours. Is there anything to stop us doing this?

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_hackney_whitehall_tottenham_court_road_29096.jpg

London's new homes: Hackney, Whitehall and Tottenham Court Road

We've got the latest news on homes being built in the capital, including a refurbishment of four flats with views of Nelson's Column, mansion blocks in Bloomsbury and a new residential "village" in Hackney.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Our solicitors aren't on the lender's panel

My fiancee and I are buying our first house. Our solicitors have received the contract papers but there is now a problem as our solicitors are not on the "lender's panel". Is this an issue?

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_embassies_sell_bases_in_mayfair_and_marylebone_29033.jpg

Embassy exodus returns acres of central London to its residents

As the embassies exit Mayfair and Marylebone, their former bases will free up stunning family homes. While the move of many embassies to Nine Elms at Vauxhall is creating a new residential quarter including thousands of new apartments.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/whats_on_events_brunel_museum_28985.jpg

Summer fun at The Brunel Museum

Visit The Brunel Museum this summer and enjoy cocktails and wild gourmet food with Midnight Apothecary or enjoy family fun with seed-sowing and adventures in the Brunel Tunnel.

Published May 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/may_2013_events_whats_on_in_london_28938.jpg

May 2013 events diary

Get interiors advice from the experts at Marylebone Interiors Day; shop till you drop at The Spirit of Summer Fair and Craft Central's Open Studios; and spoil your pooch with doggie loungers and treat jars from Islington's pop-up Dog House.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/grand_designs_live_london_excel_28881.jpg

Grand Designs Live 2013

Once again, Kevin McCloud is hosting Grand Designs Live at London ExCeL, with more than 500 exhibitors showcasing the very best in interiors, kitchens, bathrooms, technology and gardens at this year's Grand Designs Live.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_train_routes_create_quick_commutes_from_bromley_deptford_woolwich_28889.jpg

Fast new commuter routes are changing London's property map

Regeneration throughout London continues to change the property map, with the orbital train network and recent Tube line extensions creating faster commuter routes with good-value homes, including Deptford, Bromley and Woolwich.

Published May 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shared_ownership_subsidised_rent_in_london_28869.jpg

Shared ownership: options for Londoners

The seemingly unstoppable property price rises in London are changing the way people view shared ownership, as renters seek to get on to the property ladder and find long-term homes.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/pulsate_installation_primrose_hill_28853.jpg

Pulsate installation for Capitol Designer Studio

An eye-catching pop-up installation has opened in Primrose Hill to show-off how dramatic tiles can be and create cultural hub for special events.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/charles_rutherfoord_tulips_in_clapham_28843.jpg

Visit Charles Rutherfoord's tulip garden in Clapham

If the tulip fields around Amsterdam make your heart sing, head for Clapham to view 2,000 tulips in shades of predominantly apricot, orange, red and white, blooming among the wallflowers and tree peonies at Charles Rutherfoord's spectacular garden.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_original_print_fair_art_of_printing_28825.jpg

London Original Print Fair

The annual London Original Print Fair at the Royal Academy will celebrate 500 years of printmaking as galleries, studios and art-schools showcase and sell original works of art to suit all budgets.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord is told there are plenty of pet-owners out there seeking places to rent. But she's not interested.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

New fixed-rate fuel deals

A fixed-rate fuel bill will protect you from any rises in energy prices. We've looked at some of the best deals on the market.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_new_homes_news_20130424_28765.jpg

London's latest new homes update

We've got the latest news on homes being built in the capital, including new eco-friendly flats and townhouses at Greenwich Square; homes and work spaces at a former gas mantle factory in Wandsworth; and cool new loft apartments in Hackney.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/hammersmith_waterfront_new_homes_28725.jpg

West London's new homes: Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, Chiswick and Fulham

The plans to replace Hammersmith's grim flyover, and reconnect the town centre with the river, have got the attention of new-homes builders. New flats and houses are springing up in neighbouring Fulham, Earls Court and Hammersmith Grove.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How do I buy a property in my nephew's name?

I want to give my nephew £500,000 to buy a mews house for £390,000 and use the remaining cash to do it up. I'm happy for the house to be bought in his name but what's the best way to protect my funds?

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Was the council told about your boiler?

I'm selling my house and the buyer's solicitors have asked for a building regulation certificate. I replaced my boiler recently but am unsure what they mean?

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_berlin_germany_28705.jpg

Berlin: great value homes in German's capital

Berlin has now entered the top 20 of the UK's favourite property destinations. The cool German capital offers good value apartments, new architectural grand projects and designer family homes.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_in_the_peak_district_soaring_landscapes_28666.jpg

Second homes in the Peak District: enjoy the soaring landscapes

The BBC's new drama The Village shows off the Peak District's stunning landscapes. The area's traditional towns and villages are the perfect place for a holiday home of exceptional value.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord gives thanks to Margaret Thatcher, whose Right to Buy initiative meant she could invest in a council property.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/crossrail_london_property_hotspots_28616.jpg

Crossrail is already creating London property hotspots

Crossrail is already creating property hotspots throughout London. In key places along the route, house prices are likely to outperform the rest of London and rise by up to 44 per cent between now and when trains start running in 2018.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to find lost pension savings

Many people are losing track of their pension pots after moving jobs but it's easy to discover lost savings with the help of the Government’s Pension Tracing Service.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_brentford_28594.jpg

Brentford Lock West: interest-free loans on offer

Half of London's Generation Rent have given up hope of owning a home. Now, help is at hand at a new riverside scheme in Brentford, south-west London, with the offer of interest-free loans to help buyers secure a mortgage.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Low mortgage rates may hide high fees

Many of the super-cheap mortgage deals on the market aren’t quite as sweet as they look. While interest rates are at record lows, the fees attached to achieving those mortgages are at their highest in 25 years.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_in_oval_stockwell_kennington_28509.jpg

Oval's new affordable homes

South-of-the-river areas such as Oval, Kennington and Stockwell are swinging steadily into fashion as more people discover their good value affordable homes and fast transport connections to the City and the West End.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord believes making house rules and agreeing the dos and don'ts in writing can help all parties involved when renting property.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_new_homes_news_20130410_28471.jpg

London's latest new homes update

We've got the latest news on homes being built in the capital, including new warehouse flats on the Southwark waterfront, duplex penthouses in Bermondsey and modern apartments at Victoria Park in Hackney.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_country_homes_along_commuter_routes_tipped_for_growth_28430.jpg

New homes along London's commuter routes

Londoners considering a move to the country want good-value homes within a quick commute to London near good schools. We can reveal the top commuter train routes from London tipped for house price growth over the next five years.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can they change their minds on accepting our offer?

I recently put in an offer on a flat which was accepted. The mortgage application was progressing when we were told the vendors had accepted another offer. Given we had an agreement, what legal recourse do we have?

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord discovers that getting married will affect how much tax her and her future husband will pay on their rental income.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/april_events_28362.jpg

Five things to do in April

Textile artist Kaffe Fasset is exhibiting his colourful work at the Fashion and Textile Museum; meet top architects and designers at INN London; and discover fine upholstery at The Parker Gallery.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Complain your way into profit

Many people can't face complaining after receiving poor service from insurers, banks, retails and more. But moaning can lead to making a profit. We've put together top tips for claiming compensation.

Published April 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/costa_brava_easy_access_to_france_28371.jpg

Costa Brava: the luxury of living nea Spain's boarder

Living near the border of Spain in Costa Brava offers the best of Catalan culture and pretty Mediterranean beaches all within easy reach of France.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_new_homes_spring_2013_launches_28318.jpg

New homes launches: Spring 2013

Builders, buoyed by the Government's Help-to-Buy scheme, are bringing more new homes than ever to the market this year, catering for every type of buyer and budget in London's hotspots - including Shoreditch, Borough and Aldgate.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_shared_ownership_schemes_in_hoxton_and_battersea_28290.jpg

New homes on a budget: Hoxton and Battersea

Two new shared-ownership schemes in Hoxton and Battersea will give first-time buyers the chance to make a home in seriously fashionable postcodes.

Published April 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord advises tenants to sort out the fine details of rental agreements in advance - or face the extremely annoying consequences.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_in_former_government_barracks_28403.jpg

Affordable homes in former barracks: Canterbury, Uxbridge and Chattenden

Though attracting some contraversy, the Government's barracks closure programme is bringing more affordable houses on to the property market in areas such as Canterbury, Uxbridge and Chattenden.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/its_a_win_win_situation_in_st_tropez_28419.jpg

Second homes in St Tropez: enjoy a long summer and a peak-season rental income

Buy a home in the South of France and enjoy a long summer, sun-soaked beaches, colourful rural markets and a peak-season rental income.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The risks of the Help-to-Buy loan

Homebuyers using Help-to-Buy, the new government scheme to stimulate mortgate lending and to help first-time buyers on to the property ladder, should be careful of the risks of negative equity and interest rates.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/deptford_rise_new_riverside_homes_waitrose_28183.jpg

New riverside homes in Deptford

Deptford is being transformed with a new village of almost 1,000 riverside homes and a flagship Waitrose store, plus a £42 million mixed-use development at its historic railway station and surrounding area.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I buy my parent's house at less than the market value?

I want to move closer to my elderly parents, but I cannot afford to buy my own place. I could afford to repay their equity release mortgage and pay a small amount for the house. Is this legal, or could I buy a share in the place?

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How can I benefit from the Green Deal?

I have recently heard of something called "the Green Deal". What is it, how does it work — and how do I get a slice of the action?

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_new_homes_news_20130320_28123.jpg

South London: new homes update

The latest on new homes in south London, including a converted "drum tower" with 41 new homes near Clapham South Tube station; dramatic new family homes within a former convent at Camberwell's Grove Park; and shared-ownership flats at Burgess Park.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How do I sack my useless letting agent?

I have been renting out a property via a letting agency for about five years. I don't find the service they offer necessary, so I decided to terminate. They don't seem to have any of the documents for my tenants. What should I do?

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can my grandmother keep her dog in her new flat?

My grandmother has just bought a flat with a small courtyard she thought would be perfect for her small terrier. Since moving in she's been told dogs aren't allowed. How can this have happened and what can she do?

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord discovers Green Deal loans can help cut your fuel bills but the repayments might not be very appealing.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/algarve_family_homes_resort_golf_28110.jpg

Golf and family homes in Algarve

Golf and family-friendly holidays are in demand at the Algarve's newest resort and second home hotspot, Quinta do Lago. Enjoy exotic beaches, well-kept greens, water parks and gourmet dining along Portugal's sunny south coast.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/british_museum_life_and_death_in_pompeii_herculaneum_28096.jpg

British Museum: Life and Death in Pompeii

The Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum were smothered under a blanket of burning volcanic ash almost 2,000 years ago. Now we can discover how the people of these cities lived in a new exhibition at the British Museum.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/rhs_great_london_plant_fair_28074.jpg

RHS Great London Plant Fair

Get inspiration for your spring gardening at the Great London Plant Fair and stock up on plants for your home while you enjoy Fifties music and dance and seasonal cocktails.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_affordable_homes_chislehurst_ravensbourne_28064.jpg

New afforable homes in Chislehurst

A rare opportunity has come up to buy affordable homes in the Kent village, Chislehurst. The pretty suburb is only 30 minutes by train from London and has a popular high street and acres of woodland.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buying_first_homes_for_families_28059.jpg

Schemes to help families buy their first home

The average first-time buyers is near to 40 than 30 years old. New shared-ownership schemes helping families on to the property ladder offer larger houses in locations such as Bracknell, Haggerston and Wood Green.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/wool_house_at_somerset_house_28054.jpg

Wool House at Somerset House

Somerset House and Campaign for Wool are holding the biggest celebration of wool the world has ever seen, to showcase just how versatile, luxurious and robust this fabulous fibre is.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shared_ownership_in_best_parts_of_london_28019.jpg

Shared ownership: in London's hotspots

New shared-ownership flats are turning up in posh postcodes, as well as in suburban high streets, from Chelsea and Battersea to King's Cross, Angel, Canary Wharf and Bermondsey Spa.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Borrowing rates drop for landlords

Attractive buy-to-let mortgages are on the rise but the potential cut in second home Council Tax discounts could see people's bills rise by 200 per cent this year.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shared_ownership_help_to_get_on_the_property_ladder_28001.jpg

Shared ownership: help to get you started

The average deposit required to buy a home in London can typically be £66,726 - so Plan B for many first-time buyers could be shared-ownership, where required deposits fall to less than £10,000.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/top_ten_tips_shared_ownership_28016.jpg

Top 10 facts: shared ownership

Shared-ownership schemes are an affordable way for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder, thanks to lower deposits and discounted rents. Here we explain how it all works, who is eligible to buy and what happens when you want to sell.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_green_vision_for_london_homes_with_parks_and_gardens_27971.jpg

London's new homes among parks and gardens

A new "green vision" for London has been launched, with new homes builders being encouraged to weave green space into designs for new-build flats and houses across the capital - from Earls Court and Nine Elms to Tower Bridge and Docklands.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/design_museum_designs_of_the_year_2013_exhibition_28010.jpg

Designs of the Year 2013

The shortlisted contenders in this year's Designs of the Year awards are now on display at London's Design Museum. Highlights include the Olympic Cauldron, Zaha Hadid's Liquid Glacial Table and the Barbican's Rain Room installation.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_property_in_miami_us_property_hotspot_27948.jpg

Miami: the US property hotspot

The United States is one of our favourite second home destinations, with Miami one of its most prime property hotspots. This sun-kissed city has hip homes in art deco South Beach and family-friendly houses in laid-back Coconut Grove.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/croydon_saffron_square_affordable_flats_and_shopping_centre_27929.jpg

Saffron Square: Croydon's new affordable flats

New flats in Croydon are creating affordable homes and shared-ownership opportunities with good commuter links, concierge services and gyms. Soon locals will also be able to enjoy piazzas and redeveloped shopping centres.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Prepare for the end of the tax year

The end of the tax year is getting close so now is the time to start planning ways to keep your money from the taxman. Save your money with ISA allowances and pension contributions.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/rotherhithe_new_town_and_waterside_homes_27836.jpg

Rotherhithe: 1,000 new waterside homes

A second wave of regeneration is transforming the old Docklands district of Rotherhithe, with a bustling new waterfront zone and more than 1,000 new homes planned by the Shard's Sellar Group.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord discovers that paying an inventory company doesn't mean the job will be done well.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/guinevere_antiques_auction_christies_27776.jpg

Guinevere Antiques: Christie's sale

The Chelsea shop Guinevere Antiques has many famous fans, from Valentino to Gwyneth Paltrow and Jade Jagger. And now the famous interiors shop is celebrating 50 years with an auction at Christie's, featuring unusual furniture, tableware and fabrics.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/sothebys_auction_annabels_founder_mark_birley_27780.jpg

Sotheby's sale: Mark Birley private collection

Sotheby's is selling items from the luxurious home of Mark Birley, founder of legendary Mayfair club Annabel's. Buyers can bid on everything from a watercolour of the club's interior, to oak library chairs and satinwood mantel clocks.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_renting_new_build_homes_in_london_27764.jpg

London's new-build rentals

The good news for London's growing number of renters is that the type of landlord is changing. Big rental companies and housing associations are launching new-build flats for tenants who want fair-priced homes with a landlord they can trust.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/events_march_20130307_27741.jpg

March events diary

The annual domestic extravaganza that is the Ideal Home Show hits the capital this month; plus, don't miss the contemporary ceramics on show at the Soane Museum, Cassina's Thursday night shopping evenings and the much-loved Chelsea Antiques Fair returns.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bodrum_holiday_homes_28410.jpg

Bodrum: Turkey's new favourite resort

Bodrum is a quickly becoming one of Turkey's favourite resorts with Turkey's elite and top celebrities. The glamorous seaside destination features some of Europe's most exceptional coastline properties.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgage lenders offering record low deals for home loans

A spring mortgage war has broken out, with lenders offering record low deals to help boost the resurgent property market. Experts urge borrowers to act quickly as the funds are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Published March 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/transforming_the_thames_eco_friendly_homes_floating_villages_27677.jpg

London's new floating villages and eco-homes on the Thames

As Boris Johnson pledges to double river traffic by 2020, we can unveil a future for the Thames as a commuter superhighway, with floating villages of eco-homes, a complete revamp of the Royal Docks and a new boardwalk near Tower Bridge.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

The accidental landlord longs for the easy maintenance of electricity, but is still grateful to find a good gas engineer.

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How can I speed up receipt of my completion documents?

I completed on my new home in November. Despite repeated prompts to my solicitor I still don't have the final documents. How can I pressure the solicitor to speed things up?

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Who should pay to repair my roof?

I am the owner of the top flat in a two-storey building. The roof is in a very bad state and is in need of attention. Is it my sole responsibility or a shared expense with the flat below?

Published March 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/treasures_of_the_royal_court_va_27630.jpg

Treasures of the Royal Courts

The Tudors were the trendsetters of their age, with eye-popping displays of opulence that make Hollywood look dull. The V&A's new exhibition showcases this wealth with a flamboyant display of furnishings, textiles, portraits and armour.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smart_moves_20130227_27621.jpg

London: new homes update

The latest on new homes in the capital, including a joint Sainsbury's and Barratt residential scheme of 750 homes in Wandsworth, The Academy in Shooters Hill and office conversions close to the Royal Courts of Justice.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/art13_the_place_to_start_with_art_27606.jpg

Art13: London's new art fair

Tipped as the most exciting new art fair this decade, Art13 London will showcase the work of more than 130 galleries from around the world. For budding collectors on limited budgets, this could be just the place to start.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_the_deposit_boom_amid_the_gloom_27603.jpg

The deposit boom amid the gloom

The government's Funding for Lending, Newbuy and shared-ownership schemes are helping home buyers onto the property ladder with much lower start-up deposits, boosting lending to its highest level in five years.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Cut your energy bills with a Green Deal loan

The very latest energy- and money-saving scheme, the Green Deal, is a new type of homeowner loan which could enable you to reduce your bills by making improvements to your home with no costs up front.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/greenwich_peninsula_ten_thousand_new_homes_27565.jpg

Greenwich: town-centre revamp and 10,000 new homes

Mayor Boris Johnson has designated Greenwich one of London's "opportunity areas", with the historic town centre set for a major upgrade and a new 190-acre showpiece neighbourhood planned at Greenwich Peninsula.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smartmoves_news_20130220_27513.jpg

Smart moves news

We've got the latest on new homes schemes in Fulham and Clerkenwell; loft apartments for creatives in the West End and a chance to buy the former Liberal Democrats' HQ.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/creating_business_from_ski_chalet_27507.jpg

French Alps: chalet companies

British buyers seeking a second home in the French Alps can take advantage of low mortgage rates, record-breaking early snowfalls and good rental yields. Two British families running successful chalet companies share the secrets of their success.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Who owns the front lawn of our flat block?

I own a ground-floor flat that is part of a house conversion. I have obtained Land Registry title plans for each flat in our building but it doesn't say who owns the front garden. How can I establish which of the flats owns the garden?

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord realises that a clutter-free house will make your home more attractive to potential renters.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/tavy_bridge_thamesmead_estate_redevelopment_27499.jpg

Regeneration of the Thamesmead estate

Hundreds of new homes, plus a library, shops and a community square will replace the existing concrete blocks in the Tavy Bridge area of the Thamesmead estate. With Crossrail on the way, bold first-time buyers could reap rewards later.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Help your children get on the property ladder

Help your children buy their first home with new bank schemes that let you keep your share of the mortgage in a separate account that earns interest.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_new_designer_studio_flats_27444.jpg

London's designer studio flats

Buying a studio flat can be an affordable way to buy into some of London's smartest postcodes. We take a property tour of the city's new and innovative small spaces, from Blackheath and Canary Wharf to Chelsea and Aldgate East.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I build a loft extension?

I own a leasehold flat in south-east London and have exclusive access to the loft. I have been thinking of doing a loft extension. I have been told that the freeholder, who is the council, will probably say no. Is that correct?

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/reader_judges_2013_evening_standard_new_homes_awards_27385.jpg

2013 New Homes Awards: be a judge

Do you have bags of enthusiasm for architecture and interior design? Homes & Property is looking for 20 readers with a passion for property who would like to join the judging panel for this year's new homes awards.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_a_holiday_abroad_for_a_gift_27380.jpg

Romantic holiday homes

We discover holiday homes in some of the world's most romantic locations, from the unspoilt Italian lakes to the Caribbean's foodie capital of Anguilla and the curiously magnetic Scottish town of St Andrews.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/canning_town_new_homes_news_27374.jpg

Canning Town's new 'green' homes

Canning Town is an area on the up. Set between Stratford's Olympic Park and Canary Wharf, recent regeneration has attracted housebuilders to the district, with smart new homes featuring living walls and private allotments.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holborn_new_luxury_homes_27368.jpg

Holborn's luxury homes and crashpads

Demand for luxury local homes and weekday crashpads in Holborn has been triggered by two Crossrail stations being built nearby and new law and accountancy firms moving in.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_plant_and_design_show_27350.jpg

RHS London Plant and Design Show

Kick-start your gardening year with the RHS London Plant & Design Show where you can get advice from the experts, design inspiration and buy for your garden from the wide selection of spring-flowering plants on sale.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I rent out the house I inherited?

I want to let out a house I inherited a few years ago as I live abroad. I've read about people who have managed to fraudulently sell or mortgage homes that do not belong to them and this worries me as the property has been empty. What can I do?

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/luxury_lifestyle_in_afforable_homes_27340.jpg

New flats with added extras

Luxury lifestyles come as part of the package at new affordable homes schemes in Stratford, Canary Wharf and Peckham; where flats come with car-hire, private spas and gyms.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord advises would-be landlords to get on and advertise their flat while the rental market is hot - but be sure to organise an Energy Performance Certificate first.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/top_ten_tips_for_renting_in_london_27321.jpg

Top 10 tips for renting in London

Looking for a house or flat to rent in London? Follow our top tips for finding the perfect rental home, from where to start your property search, to all you need to know about tenancy agreements, deposit protection, household insurance and budgeting.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Make your savings earn in an ISA

Now is the time to move any savings into an ISA to take advantage of significant tax benefits. Make the most of your ISA allowance so that the interest you earn on your hard-earned savings is not unnecessarily lost to taxation.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_residential_schemes_in_kings_cross_victoria_nine_elms_27270.jpg

Place-making: creating London's new residential hubs

Developers, landlords and councils are working together to create ready-made communities. London's newest residential hubs in King's Cross, Victoria and Nine Elms will include new homes, shops, offices, transport links and schools.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_google_kings_cross_regeneration_27274.jpg

King's Cross: more new homes as Google moves in

Google's move to a million-square-foot bespoke office complex at King's Cross Central cements London's crown as the technology capital of Europe, transforming the area into a digital hub and creating thousands of new homes for techies.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Am I part responsible for my neighbour's extension?

I live in a conversion flat and share the freehold with two others. The owner of the downstairs flat complains that the walls in her extension leak when it rains. Am I and my other neighbour responsible for the cost of fixing it?

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Have I left it too late to change my offer?

My offer for a mews house was accepted, but my survey says there is far more work to be done to the property than I thought. The sellers are pushing me to exchange. Am I too late to ask for a price reduction?

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Victoria Whitlock speaks to a financial adviser about getting a mortgage, and is surprised by what she discovers

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/top_five_london_events_in_february_27219.jpg

Top five things to do in February

This month experience the power of light at the Hayward Gallery; celebrate Valentine's day with crafts; enjoy daring glass work; and learn about the importance of water in a showroom designed by Zaha Hadid.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smartmoves_20130306_27212.jpg

Smart moves news

We've got the latest on new homes in the capital, from brand new flats in Aldgate and Stepney Green to West London's exclusive private estate and new flats in tax-free Monaco.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to cut rising household water bills

Households in London will this year face a huge rise in water bills, with costs hiked by almost double the rate of inflation. Our money expert finds easy ways to save.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/newbuy_low_deposit_housing_scheme_27180.jpg

NewBuy: for deposit-poor first-timers

The government-backed NewBuy housing scheme is throwing a lifeline to the "squeezed middle" - London's deposit-poor first-time buyers who fail to qualify for shared-ownership opportunities.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/families_seek_affordable_london_boroughs_27154.jpg

Families find cheaper boroughs to stay in London

Our exclusive research shows that huge commuting costs have reversed a decade-long exodus from London, with buyers realising they can get a bigger home for half the price and still get to work quickly. We reveal the better-value boroughs.

Published February 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/skiing_in_chamonix_luxury_chalet_27099.jpg

Upmarket Chamonix

Chamonix is known worldwide for its serious off-piste skiing. And now this picturesque French ski resort is going upmarket with stunning luxury chalets and smart shops.

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Pest control in rental homes

Our accidental landlord gets ratty when she helps out a fellow landlord with a pest problem

Published February 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/housing_benefit_cut_for_under_occupied_homes_27070.jpg

Will the "bedroom tax" bring a rush to swap?

Housing benefit for under-occupied homes is to be cut from April. But, as one Londoner discovered, using your 'right to swap' with other tenants isn't so easy.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Why do I have to pay an annual rent charge?

My son has just bought a house. His solicitor told him that it is subject to an annual payment of £2.50 which he says is a rent charge. It isn't a lot of money but my son thought he was buying a freehold property. Why a rent charge?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is it too late to claim my land back from my neighbour?

Title deeds from the Land Registry clearly show that two metres of my garden have been included in my next-door neighbour's garden for the last 20 years. Is it now too late to claim back the land?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Selling property abroad: be currency clever

For Britons buying or selling a home in the eurozone, this could be the time to set rates as the sterling has started the year performing badly.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_office_conversions_27010.jpg

London's new office conversions

The relaxation of rules allowing offices to be turned into walk-to-work homes has set the property world alight. The major policy change could provide more than 40,000 new London homes, many in prime central business districts.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Should my dad have been given a mortgage at 84?

My father died recently and I discovered that he took out an equity release mortgage on his house. The lender is asking for money to settle and say they will take over the property if it is not sold soon. Can I challenge them on these issues?

Published January 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/discover_the_secrets_of_italy_26971.jpg

Italian interior design secrets

For British home buyers in love with Italian craftsmanship, the Palazzo Seneca Hotel in Umbria showcases the exquisite work produced by local artisans and painters, mixing modern design with antique furniture and striking reproductions.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/redundant_buildings_in_lambeth_turned_to_affordable_homes_26944.jpg

Lambeth Sixties school preserved as new homes

Sixties architecture is rarely considered worthy enough to be preserved but the redundant Beaufoy School and former fire brigade HQ in Lambeth are being transformed into affordable homes from £275,000.

Published January 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/manet_portraying_life_exhibition_26937.jpg

Manet at the Royal Academy

Manet captured middle-class Parisian life in a way that few other artists could. The Impressionist painter's work is featured in the new show Manet: Portraying Life at the Royal Academy.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smartmovesnews_20130123_26918.jpg

London latest: new homes

We've got the latest on new homes in the capital, from west London's building boom to the new-look Brixton Square for foodies and fresh design ideas for live-workers.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord learns how hard it is to rent a property on behalf of someone else.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Who owns our garden's surrounding wall?

A wall surrounding our back garden needs repair work. There's nothing in our deeds about responsibility for these walls. But when I asked our neighbour about sharing the cost of repairs he said it's nothing to do with them. How can this be resolved?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Park on my drive and I'll charge you

Hundreds of London homeowners have joined a scheme that could earn an income of up to £1,000 a year from letting their driveways as charging spaces for electric vehicles.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/canary_wharf_new_skyscrapers_and_family_homes_26852.jpg

Canary Wharf doubles in size

A dozen major new schemes and residential towers are set to double Canary Wharf's population in the next decade, while adding new waterside neighbourhoods, family homes, parks and schools to this thriving financial district.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/euro_free_istanbul_resists_the_recession_26824.jpg

Buy in recession-free Istanbul

Istanbul's economy and property market is booming. The city is becoming a popular business and tourism hub and with stunning historic mosques and a lively restaurant and bar scene it's a great place for a second home.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smart_moves_covent_garden_conversions_mayfairs_new_flats_26780.jpg

Smart moves news

We've got the latest on new homes in the capital, from conversions in Covent Garden to Mayfair's first new flats in a decade. Plus, new research reveals the premium prices homebuyers are paying to live close to a Tube station.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Why can't I be the sole name on my mortgage?

Although I split with my partner both our names are on the mortgage. Now my ex wants her name off it but my lender says I can't take over the whole mortgage because my credit rating is not good enough. What can I do?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Keep your hands off my chattels, taxman

We are buying an old farmhouse to renovate. I have asked our solicitor to apportion £15,000 of the purchase price to fittings in the contract so we won't pay stamp duty on that, but he seems reluctant. What's the problem?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord learns about doing your own taxes when you earn money from renting property.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Give your finances a profitable clean-up

January is the perfect month to clean up your finances and make sure your money will pay dividends for the rest of the year.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/cycle_to_work_homes_for_londoners_26728.jpg

London's cycle-to-work homes

First-time buyers looking to move closer to the office can save a fortune on commuting fares as good-value cycle-to-work homes are available on the edge of key West End, City and Canary Wharf business districts.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_growth_areas_london_bridge_quarter_26702.jpg

The £6 billion relaunch of London Bridge

London's train stations are becoming hubs of style, with regeneration transforming the surrounding areas into residential hotspots. And now a staggering £6 billion makeover of London Bridge is enticing homebuyers to this well-connected district.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_housing_near_london_canal_network_26660.jpg

Canalside homes for first-timers

London's extensive canal network is being rediscovered by developers and now first-time buyers have the chance to buy into these up-and-coming areas.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buying_homes_in_boston_and_new_york_26652.jpg

Buy in Boston or New York: America's finest cities

Two of the closest US cities to London are also two of America's finest. Boston has handsome Victorian homes and red-brick townhouses, while New York has good-value modern apartments.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord discovers why contracts should be well thought through to protect tenants and landlords when it comes to tenancy length.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I be forced out of our marital home?

My wife and I have recently talked about getting divorced. Now I've received a solicitor's letter telling me to leave the marital home immediately or they'll take me to court. Can they boot me out of my home?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will my boyfriend's debts affect his credit score?

My boyfriend bought a flat but has missed a couple of credit card payments. He says all will be fine when he increases his interest-only mortgage after his current fixed-rate deal expires. Am I worrying over nothing?

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

2013 discounts calendar

Many shops have sales and discounts running so frequently you could wonder what their true value actually is. We've taken a fresh look at the calendar and find out what to buy when.

Published January 2013

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/battersea_power_station_first_homes_launched_26572.jpg

Battersea Power Station: first homes launched

The first new 800 new homes at Battersea Power Station are launched in what has been dubbed "the capital's last great regeneration project" - and Londoners get the first bite of the cherry.

Published January 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_2013_property_hotspots_26557.jpg

London's top property growth areas

Wise homebuyers can get ahead of the curve by buying in London's potential growth areas, thanks to new transport links, regeneration projects and the arrival of iconic new buildings such as the Shard.

Published January 2013

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/auctions_and_antique_fairs_201301_26523.jpg

January's antiques and art fairs

The quiet month of January is the perfect time to get a bargain for your home at antique and art fairs. We've put together a list of some of the best places to go shopping.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will I lose our villa in my sister's divorce?

My parents transferred a family holiday villa over to me and my sister. My sister is now going through a divorce and tells me I've got to get legal advice and become involved in the proceedings or the property will get sold. What should I do?

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The pros of a new online letting agent

Our accidental landlord explores the pros and cons of the new online letting agent OpenRent and its free listings offer.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Joint tenancy or tenancy in common?

I'm thinking of buying a flat with a colleague. What's the difference between a joint tenancy and tenancy in common, and what can we do now to make it easier when we come to sell?

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can we ignore a covenant?

When we bought our house 10 years ago, we knew a restrictive covenant required us to seek the permission to develop the garden. No one now knows of any covenant. Should we ignore the lost covenant or investigate further?

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/homes_market_national_debt_26498.jpg

This year in the overseas property market

The past year has seen continued mixed fortunes in the overseas homes market. We take a look at how France overtook Spain as our most popular country and how Italy continued to enchant in this bumpy year.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/effra_road_scheme_makes_brixton_homes_more_affordable_26492.jpg

South London opens up to first-time buyers

New shared-ownership schemes in Brixton and Lewisham are opening up more areas of south London to first-time buyers.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bless_these_houses_church_redevelopments_26474.jpg

Church redevelopments

As congregations shrink for the Church of England it is finding imaginative new ways to use its property portfolio including redeveloping churches and cathedrals that haven't been earning their keep.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Building society loans

An increasing number of home-buyers are opting to get their mortgages - known as mutuals - from building societies over banks. And experts say it is often a route to a better deal.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_christmas_bargains_26432.jpg

Snap up a property bargain at Christmas

At Christmas, buying a new home might be the last thing on your mind but this is the best time of year to get a property bargain from developers keen to sell.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord discovers a company that may be able to deliver a hassle-free service that isn't too expensive

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/haute_savoie_chalet_holiday_26334.jpg

The chalets of Haute Savoie

Many winter sports fans dream of owning a ski chalet. One couple discovered skiing in the Haute Savoie and never wanted to leave. So they stayed.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/arty_peckham_connected_26314.jpg

Peckham's growing art scene

Peckham has been discovered by artists and actors. Now a new rail link is opening the gates of opportunity even wider.

Published December 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_soho_20121205_26311.jpg

Soho's housing revival

Neighbourhood improvements and the regenerating impact of the Crossrail station project at Tottenham Court Road have sparked a long-awaited residential revival to Soho.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Our top tips for savings online this Christmas

Spend wisely — and in the right places — and you can easily knock 25 per cent off your Christmas shopping bill.

Published December 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/wandsworth_high_street_transformation_26275.jpg

Wandsworth transformed: new homes

Wandsworth is loved for its low council tax but loathed for its congested roads. Now work has started on a £1 billion transformation of the high street and its ugly, car-clogged one-way system.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/december_2012_events_26246.jpg

Christmas events

From festive fêtes selling an array of eclectic and handmade gifts, to delving into Christmases past at the Geffrye Museum; here's our guide to the top five things to do in London this month.

Published December 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Accidental landlord

Insurance companies don't usually reward their loyal customers with the lowest premiums. Our accidental landlord learns the best ways to shop around for the best deals.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/kilburn_bourne_place_new_flats_26159.jpg

Kilburn is Bourne again

Some of the biggest names in architecture are redesigning one of north London's most notorious no-go zones — the South Kilburn Estate. When completed, Bourne Place will have 134 new homes.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_chalet_in_french_alps_26343.jpg

Club Med Valmorel

With its high altitude resorts, good-value accommodation and quick flights from the UK, the French Alps is the perfect choice for winter sport fans.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/victoria_albert_museum_furniture_gallery_26153.jpg

V&A: new furniture gallery

The V&A's fabulous new top-floor furniture gallery has 200 fascinating pieces, each telling a story of design techniques and and furniture making.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Wine as an investment

Christmas seems like a good time to invest in wine — then you might have some ready for next year, too. In these days of record low interest rates, wine is a genuine investment opportunity and is growing in popularity.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/refurbished_historic_wharves_wapping_26101.jpg

Smart riverside living in Wapping

The long-awaited refurbishment of historic wharves along with the new East London Line link is set to make Wapping the most fashionable quarter of Docklands.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/brompton_road_xmas_shopping_evening_2012_26067.jpg

Christmas at Brompton Design District

Get a head start on Christmas shopping this year and head to South Kensington's design district for unusual gifts and festive treats.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smart_moves_news_heritage_brixton_buckingham_palace_squatters_26060.jpg

Smart moves news

We've got all the latest news on new homes in the capital, from conversion of heritage buildings to new additions to Brixton and an opportunity to live opposite Buckingham Palace.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How close can I lay foundations to a manhole?

I want to extend the kitchen of my house into the garden, which has a manhole. If I keep access to the manhole, am I still obliged to pay to get agreement from Thames Water, and am I bound by its rules regarding how close I can lay foundations to a manhole?

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_price_of_self_storage_26047.jpg

The price of self-storage

For many people self-storage units have proved to be a godsend to space-poor Londoners. But is it worth the cost, and what should you be looking for in a good self-storage unit?

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Has my reservation fee gone for good?

My solicitors said if I didn't exchange contracts by a certain date my reservation fee would be forfeited. The lender's valuation was arranged for the day after so the developer withdrew and retained the £2,000 fee. What can I do?

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/christies_attic_sale_26038.jpg

Harewood House sale

Yorkshire's grand Georgian mansion, Harewood House, has been home to generations of royals including the avid collector Princess Mary. Now items from this stately home are coming up for auction at Christie's.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bahamas_a_tax_haven_for_briton_26034.jpg

Bahamas: a tax haven for Britons

The islands of the Bahamas have an X factor worth travelling for, with sandy beaches, no capital gains, income or inheritance tax to bother buyers and a range of idyllic waterside homes.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_awards_2013_who_is_designing_the_best_houses_26020.jpg

New Homes Awards 2013

The London Evening Standard New Homes Awards 2013 is on the hunt to find the capital's best new homes - from first-time buyer flats to one-off luxury mansions.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_other_art_fair_26002.jpg

The Other Art Fair

The Other Art Fair brings together 90 of the best unrepresented artists in the UK to sell their work directly to established and first-time collectors.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord learns the hard way that it's always worth thoroughly checking under the bed before new tenants move in.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Ninety-five per cent mortgages

First-time buyers can still get on the property ladder with much lower savings than the “average” deposit. The repayment rates may be higher but 95 per cent mortgages are still available if you know where to look.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bloomsburys_bedford_estate_revitalised_25943.jpg

Bloomsbury's modern makeover

Street makeovers are turning London's residential neighbourhoods into successful new high streets. The latest to join the regenerators is Bloomsbury's Bedford Estate.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/finsbury_park_affordable_homes_london_25906.jpg

Finsbury Park on a budget

Finsbury Park is the definition of a good first-time buy location with fantastic transport links, plenty of open space and affordable housing.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/stars_barbara_chandler_exhibition_habitat_25881.jpg

Stars: festive photography and textiles

An installation of atmospheric winter photography and textiles by Barbara Chandler is now on show at Habitat's new Platform Gallery in London.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/restoration_of_italian_country_estates_25880.jpg

Italy's country estates

Restoring a ruined Italian villa is not for the faint-hearted. We meet a UK-based couple who have transformed a 360-acre country estate into an elegant boutique hotel and a honeymoon hot spot.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_square_in_kensington_affordable_for_first_time_buyers_25848.jpg

Kensington for first-time buyers

New shared-ownership homes at Portobello Square in North Kensington will give first-time buyers the opportunity to live in one of London's most famous locations.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I keep my ash tree?

Our townhouse has a large walled garden in which we have a rowan tree and a young ash. Our neighbour says she's worried that the trees may be affected by this disease killing ash trees. As we are in a built-up area is this possible and is it a genuine concern?

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Child pension plans

Buying a child a pension as a Christmas present may seem a strange idea — but think of the turmoil many people approaching retirement are going through today, and you’ll see why anyone who has a self-invested pension plan set up for them as a child will thank you in the future.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/fulhams_new_riverside_homes_25786.jpg

Fulham's new riverside homes

Fulham's hidden acres will tranform the riverfront with designer homes to rival Chelsea - only cheaper.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_awards_2013_call_for_entries_25747.jpg

New Homes Awards 2013: enter now

The London Evening Standard New Homes Awards, now in their 22nd year, celebrate the skills of the new homes industry. We are now seeking entries from housebuilders for these coveted awards for 2013.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/lisbon_europes_underrated_capital_city_25712.jpg

Lisbon's good-value homes

There are excellent opportunities to buy good-value homes in this beautiful city where you can enjoy it's rich history, dynamic architecture and thriving arts scene.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/austrias_appeal_topples_french_and_swiss_alps_25698.jpg

Austria's dual season appeal

Austria has been Europe's star performer in the property market's recent troubles with it's soaring mountain peaks and small-scale traditional villages that have winter and summer appeal.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/chinese_design_today_25691.jpg

Chinese Design Today

Made in China gets a new meaning from 16 designers bringing modern works to London.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/narrow_path_dhaus_company_25687.jpg

The Narrow Path by the D*Haus Company

At this intriguing show, young London architects create a house based on the 1903 principles of mathematician Henry Dudeney: it revolves to follow the light.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/handmade_in_britain_2012_25672.jpg

Handmade in Britain

Set in a stately hall, and now in its sixth year, this intriguing show presents handmade design and home accessories from over 100 makers.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_craft_workshops_25666.jpg

London's craft workshops

Handmade homeware by independent designer-makers often cost less than their mass-produced equivalents. We take a look at the best craft fairs in London in the run-up to Christmas.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

What are my freehold responsibilities?

I am a fellow freeholder/leaseholder of a flat converted from an Edwardian house. Am I responsible for the maintenance and repair of a roof light that serves only one flat?

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The best store cards

Before you start your Christmas shopping, stop and consider your spending habits and how store cards can help you - there are ways of saving hundreds of pounds on your debt and easing the January pain.

Published November 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bbc_goodfood_show_london_2012_25609.jpg

BBC Good Food Show 2012

This year's BBC Good Food Show in London is bigger than ever with an all-star line up of celebrity chefs on hand to share their top tips and favourite recipes.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/olympia_fine_art_antiques_fair_2012_25606.jpg

Olympia Winter Fine Art & Antiques Fair

Get two-for-one tickets and find quirky gifts from 130 dealers at the last grandiose antiques event before Christmas.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_glamorous_residential_towers_25632.jpg

London becomes a vertical metropolis

This is the capital’s decade of residential towers with more than 100 in the planning pipeline. And 10 much-anticipated apartments at the Shard, London's most potent high-rise symbol to date, are set to be released next year.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Victoria Whitlock finds that her fussy new tenants have much to learn about the realities of domestic life.

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will my husband's creditors chase me?

My husband and I separated some time ago but never got a divorce. Now he might be bankrupt and says I need to transfer the house into my name quickly. Do I need to do this to protect my family?

Published November 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get the best home insurance deal

The dark wintery nights always create a pre-Christmas peak in thefts from homes. Be prepared with basic crime-prevention and follow our guide to getting the best insurance policy.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/smart_moves_news_20121031_25511.jpg

Smart moves news

We've got the latest on new homes in the capital, from the 64 über-cool loft apartments at The Textile Building in Hackney, to 23 new flats at Victoria's Howick Place.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/city_of_london_building_boom_25468.jpg

New homes with a City-fringe address

The Square Mile wakes up. What was once a silent financial centre now buzzes with bars, bistros and posh shops. And new homes on the fringes will let City workers live within walking distance of the office and the action.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_in_venice_andenjoy_the_love_affair_25438.jpg

Buy in Venice and enjoy the love affair

Property prices in Venice have remained static throughout the recession. A long rental season and easy access from London make the world's most romantic city an appealing place to buy.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holloway_new_homes_for_arsenal_fans_25413.jpg

New homes for Arsenal fans

Arsenal FC and a housing association have joined together to launch a regeneration scheme of affordable new homes that will transform a shabby corner of north London.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord and her tenants learn the hard way just how much landlord insurance will cover.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How do I tell my greedy ex to get lost?

I remortgaged my home to pay off my husband's debt and transferred the house into my sole name. We remain married because he ignored my divorce petition but now eleven years on he is demanding his half-share of the house. What do I do?

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgage approvals are down again

The number of mortgages approved this month is down six per cent on the same time last year. But is this the latest evidence of how difficult it remains to borrow or, as the bankers claim, evidence of a lack of appetite from buyers?

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/oxford_street_masterplan_unveiled_25360.jpg

New homes for Oxford Street

A masterplan unveiled this week will transform Oxford Street into a boulevard to rival Paris’s Champs Elysées or Fifth Avenue in New York. This famous shopping street is also set to become a coveted residential address.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_new_homes_put_bikes_ahead_of_homes_25313.jpg

New bike-friendly homes

New property developments throughout London are being inspired by the popularity of cycling in the city, with car spaces being replaced by handy bike storage.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord investigates if letting a property management company look after your rental investment is as good as it sounds.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Should I treat a sit-on mower just like a car?

My neighbour and I help each other out mowing our lawns. We want to go halves buying a big sit-on mower, but is it legal to drive it down the street to each others houses?

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_art_fair_art_on_a_budget_25281.jpg

London's Affordable Art Fair

Collecting art is not just for the super-rich. The Affordable Art Fair features work from more than 100 galleries aimed at buyers on a budget.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Hurry to apply for a fixed energy bill

Energy suppliers are increasing their prices even higher this month, but it's not too late to fight the rise by taking advantage of one of the fixed-rate deals.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_near_londons_street_markets_25243.jpg

New homes near London's street markets

London's fabulous foodie hubs, such as world-famous Borough Market, have become a magnet for new homes buyers who can see the appeal of living nearby.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/italian_temptation_sardinia_with_low_cost_flights_25205.jpg

Sardinia: a Mediterranean secret

The second largest island in the Mediterranean has plenty to shout about. With low-cost flights from London year-round, it's easy to reach Sardinia's mountainous interior, dazzling waters and beautiful beaches.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/younger_buyers_no_longer_priced_out_of_green_zones_25153.jpg

Live greener for cheaper

Green spaces and homes in London are on the increase and thanks to new developments places such as in Southwark, Mitcham, Finsbury Park and Stockwell, new buyers aren't being priced out of being green.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is equity release a good way to go?

My parents have been retired now for eight years but don't have much money. However, their property is worth a lot of money. Should I suggest equity release to them?

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

New partnership mortgages

An innovative new mortgage product is good news for those who have been turned down by banks, despite having built up 20 per cent deposits.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/east_london_affordable_homes_show_2012_25118.jpg

East London Affordable Homes Show

First-time buyers with an income of less than £64,300 a year should head to Canary Wharf this weekend for the East London Affordable Homes Show.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/downsizing_to_cheaper_new_homes_25090.jpg

London's 'downsizing' families are cashing in

In an attempt to meet rising household expenses and school fees, young families are selling up, taking a cash bonus out of their homes and moving to cheaper districts in the city.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/perfect_provence_within_sigbt_of_the_med_25059.jpg

Perfect Provence

The picture-perfect villages in Provence are temptingly close to the Mediterranean coast but far enough away to provide respite from the crowds.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_restaurant_festival_2012_25054.jpg

London Restaurant Festival

This annual celebration of the capital's vibrant restaurant scene is in full swing with a packed events programme and a feast of special festival menus.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/green_affordable_homes_mean_cheaper_fuel_bills_25052.jpg

Green homes, cheaper bills

High-spec sustainability features built into new London homes could see fuel bills reduce by around two thirds compared with regular homeowners.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord deals with the trouble of deciding when to deduct money from a tenant's deposit.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can we keep pigs as pets?

We've thought about rearing animals to keep the brambles in our garden down. My daughters have suggested we get a pig. We love the idea — but are there any legal pitfalls that we should be aware of?

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/october_2012_events_25042.jpg

October events

From wood-turning to exploring Scandinavian design and getting into the festive spirit, here's our round-up of the best design events happening in London this month.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/scotlands_new_homes_the_ryder_cup_winners_for_2014_25020.jpg

Ryder Cup winners for 2014

Plots overlooking the 2014 Ryder Cup golf course have been released for sale, offering buyers the chance to build a bespoke home on acres of breathtaking Scottish landscape.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Don't miss out on £6,000 for free

A new auto enrolment pension scheme could give employees £6,000 in “free money” towards their pension over the next decade.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/kensington_unlocked_for_new_homes_24987.jpg

Kensington's new homes

Kensington - one of the world's most prestigious addresses - has been jolted into action after Knightsbridge and Mayfair began stealing the limelight. Now the area is being reborn, with its biggest new housing scheme for decades.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_rise_of_young_house_sharers_in_clapham_24949.jpg

London's affordable house-shares

Clapham's exciting regeneration plans have come into fruition and has become a favoured area for young house-sharers looking for affordable homes in a cosmopolitan community.

Published October 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/majorca_for_all_budgets_24909.jpg

Majorca: a smart little island

This Spanish island has everything from rural properties to waterfront apartments. We take a tour along the popular north coast, the less-known south coast and into the picturesque countryside.

Published October 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

I’ll put money on beating the professionals

The accidental landlord tests herself against a letting agent to find out who can find a tenant more cheaply and easily.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

£1,000 to become a property investor

The UK’s first regulated residential property fund has been launched, allowing investors to tap into the burgeoning private rentals market. With a minimum investment of £1,000, the fund is a low-cost, hassle-free alternative to buy-to-let, which requires a bigger stake and a hands-on approach.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/autumn_2012_new_homes_launches_24870.jpg

Autumn's new homes launches

The autumn new homes launches confirm that the Square Mile's eastern fringe will be a homes hotspot within five years. Yet despite thousands of new homes in the pipeline, London continues to have a supply shortage.

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_celebrity_lake_district_for_londoners_24821.jpg

The celebrity 'Lake District' for Londoners

Designer homes overlooking an estate of 140 lakes are attracting the fit and the famous to the Cotswolds.

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_st_johns_wood_24761.jpg

So you think St John’s Wood is out of reach…

H&P discovers a shared ownership scheme for first-time buyers in a high-spec block in swanky – and central – NW8.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I keep my cheating wife locked out?

My wife of 30 years has been having an affair, so I have thrown her out. Now I have a solicitor’s letter saying I have to let her back in until I raise enough cash to settle her interest in the house. The property is registered in my name only. Surely this cannot be right?

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Good news - low interest rates until 2015

The announcement in America that interest rates are expected to be held at their current level until 2015 is reassuring for mortgage borrowers here. If the US keeps rates low, the Bank of England will have to follow.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Why marigold is far from my favourite colour

The accidental landlord ends up on her knees scrubbing after two mucky tenants leave.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/fitzrovia_finds_its_own_identity_24692.jpg

Fitzrovia finds its own identity

Fitzrovia is a classic European 'quarter'. This week a square with 291 homes opens in this prime location.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/swiss_homes_in_sans_fee_24616.jpg

The Swiss haven of Saas-Fee

Pretty Saas-Fee is a car-free village half the price of nearby Zermatt with a lively après-ski scene, but with all the safety and civility you'd expect in Switzerland.

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/domestic_matters_24611.jpg

DomesticMATTERS

A new exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts is showing how to mix carefully crafted pieces with mass-manufactured furniture

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/open_house_london_2012_24586.jpg

Open House London

Open House is now a global phenomenon and is bigger than ever, with 750 of the capital's most interesting and unusual buildings taking part. We meet the event's founder to get a preview of this year's London gems.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

The accidental landlord finds that a long, deep stare over a cup of tea is one way to avoid trouble when vetting tenants.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

New homes: completion dates

Why can't a builder give a fixed completion date? I have been told it's best not to try unless I have no property to sell or I'm prepared to go into temporary accommodation until the new house is ready.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_show_south_london_24570.jpg

Affordable Homes Show

SE London postcodes, some in zone two, are among the capital's cheapest. This weekend's Affordable Homes Show will highlight hundreds of homes south of the river for first-time buyers.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Avoid expensive calls to utility companies

Premium and high-priced phone numbers force millions of Britons to pay more than they need to for their mobile calls - but now there is a way to avoid such charges.

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/battersea_powering_up_24529.jpg

How Battersea is powering up for its brave new world

Central London’s biggest regeneration zone is destined to become a 450-acre neighbourhood with 16,000 new homes, parks and promenades.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/billionaire_balkans_24478.jpg

'Billionaire Balkans' still a bargain

Porto Montenegro, a new resort on the magnificent Adriatic coast, offers buyers a cheaper alternative to the South of France.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_family_homes_24472.jpg

Now families get a chance

For less than £140,000 families with young children can begin to buy their own home in sought-after locations.

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/renting_with_social_media_24455.jpg

Facebook generation gets a better way to rent

Young professionals are turning to social media to find 'branded' flats with customised facilities.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Teeny-weeny bikini will pull in the punters

Our accidental landlord converts an Olympic idea into a chance to attract more people to view her rental property.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Same-day exchange and completion

Our seller has asked us to exchange contracts and complete on the same day but our solicitors say we cannot. Why is that?

Published September 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_design_festival_2012_24433.gif

London Design Festival 2012

Uncover the very latest in interior design before it hits the shops. At the core of the 10th London Design Festival are five “trade” shows spread across the capital — which also have days for the public.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

An energy price war brings down bills

Current price wars among the UK's energy suppliers means homeowners have the chance to fix their bills for two years — protecting them from further price hikes for that period, and at cheaper prices than many variable rate deals.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/conversion_boom_brings_communities_back_into_the_city_24386.jpg

Conversion boom brings communities back into the city

Empty offices are proving a bonus for buyers seeking an impressive central London home.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/set_sail_for_good_value_grenada_24360.jpg

Set sail for good-value Grenada

Popular with sailing lovers and Caribbean regulars, the 21-mile long island of Grenada has 45 soft-sand beaches, gin-clear waters, impressive marinas stacked with sleek yachts and has one of the Caribbean's friendliest, safest vibes.

Published September 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_stepney_green_24350.jpg

Going east is a step in the right direction

Regeneration catches up with Stepney Green as it is treated to a £200m revamp.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_to_let_safe_haven_for_savings_24326.jpg

Buy-to-let is a long-term safe haven for your savings

Investors are flooding back into the property market spurred on by the promise of a healthy rental return, discovers David Spittles

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will the railway people keep off our turf?

A railway tunnel runs under my garden and there's a brick ventilation shaft down to it. When I bought the house I knew the railway company had a right under a covenant to enter my garden to inspect the tunnel. I've just spent a fortune having turf laid and a new fence built. Can I make them pay for any damage next time they exercise this right of access?

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

If you can't tell me I'm rubbish, tell her

Our accidental landlord accepts a third party might get more candid feedback about her flat for rent.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is an architect's certificate all we need?

We are buying a property built 18 months ago by the seller who still lives there. There is no NHBC agreement but there is an architect’s certificate. Our solicitors say this is not enough. What can we do?

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to reduce mobile phone spam

Britons are receiving more than four million unwanted texts every day. Anyone replying, even in an attempt to unsubscribe, may have to pay for a premium-rate text. But there are ways to cut these down.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/west_london_affordable_24242.jpg

An exclusive location at an affordable price

For first-time buyers living or working in Hammersmith & Fulham, new low-cost home ownership schemes just launched could provide the chance to get on the property ladder at an address normally completely out of reach.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/working_from_home_24258.jpg

Tailored to fit your new home working lifestyle

Thousands of Londoners had a go at home working during the Olympics. Now many want to carry on. Homes & Property reports.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Din of stampeding kids upstairs sends my sure-fire tenant running for the door

Our accidental landlord endeavours to stay positive while trying to rent a flat with noisy neighbours.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

A lesson in banking for freshers

The A-level results are in and thousands of students are rushing to stock up on supplies as they prepare to head off to university. But there’s another key piece of preparation that soon-to-be undergraduates need help with — sorting out their finances.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_property_investment_outperforms_gold_24198.jpg

London’s property ‘bull’s-eye’ outperforms gold – even in the credit crunch

Figures out today show that while gold is good, housing in the capital has proved a better investment.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/open_house_2012_24608.jpg

Open House London 2012

The much-anticipated program for this year's city-wide celebration of the capital's dynamic buildings, places and spaces on 22 & 23 September has now been released. We take a look at the highlights.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/swiss_austrian_lakeside_homes_24130.jpg

Swiss and Austrian lakeside homes

Many Swiss and Austrian waterside homes offer exceptional views, easy access from London and all the benefits of living in the culturally diverse heart of Europe.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_new_homes_sidcup_bromley_24117.jpg

It's Viva Las Sidcup

Contemporary new housing schemes in the south-east London suburbs of Sidcup and Bromley are attracting plenty of interest from first-time buyers.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can a young renter trust a landlord with her money?

Our accidental landlord encounters a nervous young first-timer who thinks she might run off with her precious deposit. As if....

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Skylights open window on a problem

Who should pay to replace leaking skylights in one of the flats when the property is share of freehold?

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Revealed: London's new buy-to-let hotspots

Buy-to-let lending is soaring — and now the results of a study suggest where the smart new landlords should be heading.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/greenwich_olympic_regeneration_24088.jpg

Greenwich looks to the future

The Royal Borough is looking to the future with a showpiece new neighbourhood and thousands of new homes among its still slightly raw wharfs - now so full of promise.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_can_pay_for_themselves_24025.jpg

Holiday homes can pay for themselves

Think smart and your summer retreat - in the UK or abroad - can even be a wise investment.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

'Her indoors' won't shift for love nor money

My wife and I are going through a divorce and our house has been on the market for more than a year. Last week we got an offer that I want to accept but which she refuses to consider. What can I do?

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/letchworth_garden_city_24001.jpg

Garden cities for first timers

Hertfordshire's two garden cities - Letchworth and Welwyn - are an out-of-town alternative for first-time buyers, just half an hour from King's Cross.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Check your account for bank blunders

The impact of the NatWest glitch in June — where the bank’s computer failure caused millions of missed payments — could be lingering on. It's crucial to check credit ratings now as any black marks could push up the cost of future borrowing.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/east_london_after_olympics_23943.jpg

Stratford's fantastic future

After a spectacular transformation, Stratford and its surroundings will adapt and prosper. The Olympic Village will be retro-fitted into 2,818 new homes and a further 8,000 new homes are planned around the Olympic Park over the next decade.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_in_the_alps_for_a_year_round_playground_23929.jpg

Buy in the Alps for a year-round playground

It's not just for skiing - the Alpine region provides a winning combination of relaxation and fun throughout the year.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buying_share_first_step_to_ownership_23911.jpg

The first step to home ownership

Shared-ownership can help first-time buyers who can't save for a deposit or get a family handout. We look at part-buy, part-rent properties in central London postcodes, including John's Wood, Islington, Finsbury Park and Limehouse.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/august_2012_events_23907.jpg

Five things to see in August

More than 30 avant-garde structures are colonising the city's public spaces, with incredible installations created by architects, artists, designers, and engineers from colleges. Plus London’s latest popup shops and exhibitions.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is our neighbour going up a blind alley?

We have an alley that runs from the road along the back of 12 houses, including ours, which hasn't been used for years. A new neighbour now wants car access - can he do this after all these years?

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Cheap home loans for grown-ups

The lowest-ever five-year, fixed-rate mortgage deals have been launched, giving homebuyers a compelling reason to peg their borrowing costs until 2017.

Published August 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_near_transport_hubs_23874.jpg

West London's new city

Architect Terry Farrell unveils his vision for a forgotten 99-acre industrial site three miles from Oxford Circus that will transform west London.

Published August 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/lake_como_23787.jpg

Lake Como enjoys the perfect location

An Italian border town an hour from Milan, with mountains, lakes and property prices to suit everyone.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/newbuy_23783.jpg

Buy a new home with just a five per cent deposit

The Government's NewBuy scheme has given hope to its first young buyers.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/in_the_know_buy_to_let_23765.jpg

In the know: buy-to-let investing

Tips for spotting a property that will be an attractive prospect to renters.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Roller coaster ride courtesy of scary agent

The accidental landlord encounters an efficient saleswoman whose pleasant demeanour is hiding a much darker side.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Landlord's lease deal is a garden steal

The freeholder has agreed to extend the lease term on my flat. As I cannot pay anything, he has agreed to accept the transfer of my garden to him if I erect a gate blocking my existing access. This doesn't seem fair to me. What do you think?

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

A smartphone can ruin your holiday

Anyone travelling outside of the EU could see their smartphone rack up a huge bill as emails and apps automatically gobble up data. Even those with non-internet mobile phones often receive a shock holiday bill. We find out how to keep costs low.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/olympic_legacy_23673.jpg

Olympic legacy new homes

As visitors arrive from around the world, smart new developments are being unveiled near the sporting venues.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/la_belle_france_23611.jpg

Toujours l’amour with La Belle France

France is the most visited country on the planet, which is why property prices are buoyant despite the taxes.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/country_homes_for_less_than_350000_23601.jpg

Country homes for less than £350,000

Affordable homes in towns less than an hour from the capital.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_homes_for_less_than_350k_23580.jpg

London homes for less than £350,000

London is a city of two-up, two-downs that are perfect second homes. We take a look at what's on offer to "second-steppers" ready to trade up - from renovation projects to hidden gems in up-and-coming conservation areas.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Ready to move but our seller vanishes

We’re ready to move in a week. Contracts have been exchanged and completion has been agreed — but we haven’t been able to contact the seller. Providing completion has taken place, if we turn up at the new house without keys next week, would we be within our rights to call a locksmith to gain access?

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgages are set to get cheaper

First the good news for home buyers: mortgages are getting cheaper with new fixed-rate deals on offer this month. But read the fine print - they come with expensive fees and only those with deposits of at least 40 per cent need apply.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/east_city_fringe_23521.jpg

Join most of London's population, now living east

The majority of the capital’s population now lives east of Blackfriars Bridge. This remarkable demographic shift is largely due to new transport links that have combined with riverbank regeneration to revitalise City fringe districts.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/italy_siena_florence_23475.jpg

Buy between Siena and Florence: two of Italy's cultural gems

Live like an Italian prince for less than £300,000 - H&P shows you how.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/escape_rent_rises_with_shared_ownership_23471.jpg

Escape rent rises with shared ownership

Shared ownership is becoming a consideration for many more young Londoners as the inexorable rise in private rents in the capital — up 30 per cent during the last three years — robs first-time buyers of any chance to save a large deposit.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/letting_your_home_can_pay_for_holidays_23458.jpg

Letting out your home

Letting - or swapping - your home can subsidise annual getaways. We meet some of the Londoners cashing in on going away.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

I’m losing the Olympic race for new tenants

Our accidental landlord feels like the only person in London who isn’t excited about the Games. It’s so bad for business

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can we spend the deposit before completion?

We’re selling our London house to cash buyers who say they don’t want to complete until December. They’ve offered us a 10 per cent deposit, which we’d like to invest without having to wait until completion. Can we use the deposit in this way?

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Bank customers are revolting – at last

There was a 25 per cent increase in traffic among surfers looking to move their money last week. It’s not difficult, and some banks will even pay you to do so.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_top_ten_prime_areas_23420.jpg

London's top ten prime areas

Even wealthy buyers are being priced out of central London and moving to the suburbs. Find out where to buy ahead of the wave.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/lucca_23372.jpg

Lords of the manor in Tuscany

Enjoy Lucca living in a restored 16th-century manor house.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/where_the_british_buy_abroad_23379.jpg

Where the British buy abroad: favourite destinations

The British once went abroad clutching teabags. Now they buy homes and even drink the water, says Cathy Hawker

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/share_of_the_action_23360.jpg

Get your share of the action

London's young professionals are discovering that shared-ownership works for them and not just keyworkers.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/country_house_rentals_23337.jpg

Isolated or castellated: country houses, it's all for rent

From tree-houses to country piles, every kind of second-home option can be rented, tried and tested.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/st_martins_courtyard_food_festival_23342.jpg

St Martin's Courtyard: a global food festival

Foodies can taste their way around the world in the heart of London's theatreland this weekend as Covent Garden's latest dining quarter is transformed into a vibrant, open air street food market.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_premier_n1_address_23318.jpg

Now is your chance to buy at a premier N1 address

There are plenty of central areas within the reach of first-time buyers.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/july_2012_events_23297.jpg

July events

This month, check out the Ceramic Flower Garden at Westminster, the Festival of Silver at Goldsmiths Centre, Habitat's Paper Cloud gallery on the King's Road and savour the treasures of Apsley House.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Final checks are the key to completion

After moving into our new home we realised many things were not done properly by the previous owner, a property developer. After smelling gas, our boiler was sealed so we have no heating or hot water until I replace it, and I have had to fix the wiring and the roof. Can I sue the seller?

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Energy companies offer £300 worth of free insulation

Have you ever had someone offer you £300 — actual, hard cash — and turned it down out of laziness? Of course not. However, millions of us are missing out on a gift of equivalent value, and perhaps even more, by ignoring the energy giants’ offer to provide free insulation in our homes.

Published July 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/wapping_printworks_23262.jpg

Wapping: from printworks to riverside homes

Rupert Murdoch's 'Fortress Wapping' is one of the first east London printworks to turn into a riverside village.

Published July 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/turkey_turquoise_coast_23211.jpg

Baywatch on the beautiful Turquoise Coast

With good flights, high-quality new-builds and a non-euro currency, Turkey's star is rising.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/be_one_of_the_post_olympics_property_winners_23184.jpg

Be one of the post-Olympics property winners

Don't miss out on your share of the £9 billion investment in the Games - with Stratford, Bow, Hackney Wick, Canning Town, Greenwich and Woolwich areas promoting new affordable housing schemes.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_best_things_come_in_small_packages_23154.jpg

Invest in small developments

As irresistable as the glossy brochures of large-scale housing schemes may be, many home-hunters might find a better deal if they focus on smaller, less high-profile developments, offering the chance to buy a "one-off" flat, rather than a clone.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

When is a loft room an official extra bedroom?

I am buying a property that was advertised as a four-bedroom house but the fourth bedroom is actually an unfinished loft room. It has had no building control approval and no completion certificate for the work. Does this give me grounds to ask for a reduction in price?

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

A lesson in photography

Our accidental landlord has strong views about the photos used in rental ads - and tips for taking better ones.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Inflation-proof your precious savings

The latest inflation figures might show prices rises easing - but it's still very hard to get a decent return on savings. But if you do have £10,000 looking for a home, you can secure a return on your money with a little homework.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_in_nother_ireland_23109.jpg

Holiday homes in Northern Ireland

According to a report released this spring by the Office of National Statistics, the happiest place in the UK isn't in culturally vibrant London or the rural home counties where people feel most content, but in Northern Ireland — a region historically associated with more troubled times.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/albert_embankment_23081.jpg

New starchitect towers for Albert Embankment

Jeffrey Archer will soon have to share his spectacular view of the river with 3,500 new homes.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/nothings_quite_as_good_as_gold_23052.jpg

Nothing's quite as good as gold

Gold is seen as a source of financial surety and is prized for its beauty, colour and physical properties. The new, stunning exhibition at Goldsmith's Hall reveals gold to be at the heart of all London's status and wealth.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/architectural_homes_for_first_time_buyers_23046.jpg

Architectural homes for first-time buyers

Top architects with distinctive style are now being commissioned by housing associations to build homes that first-time buyers can afford in London and commuter towns.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/first_time_buyers_price_choice_london_and_commuter_towns_23020.jpg

Homes for under £250,000

Homes & Property begins a new series offering first-time buyers price choices across London and the commuter towns. First up, we take a look at what £250,000 buys in Bloomsbury, St John's Wood, Wimbledon, Camberwell and leafy Wanstead.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

What's my flat worth to rent?

When her long-standing tenant moves, the accidental landlord can't think what to charge a new one.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Colouring by stealth is not a good idea

My neighbours have painted the façade of their basement flat a different (and wholly inappropriate) colour. We share the freehold so I have pointed out that any decoration of the exterior needs to be agreed between us before any works are started, but they don’t accept this.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to checkout cheaper food

As we all know, food is costing more. Some foods are worth paying extra for, but others simply are not. The key is to work out where to make savings without having to accept poorer quality. There are plenty of good supermarket bill-trimming ideas.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/taste_of_london_2012_23013.jpg

Taste of London 2012

The Taste of London festival returns to Regent's Park this weekend with an all-star cast of culinary greats and plenty to tempt the capital's foodies.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_station_bankside_22982.jpg

A boom in Bankside new homes

With the river, Tate Modern, the Globe theatre, a new train station, a thriving community and homes to suit every pocket, no wonder Bankside is London's hottest spot.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/south_of_france_22909.jpg

Superyachts, helicopters and trophy homes: the south of France

The south of France is a millionaires' playground where a trophy house is an essential.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/peterborough_2012_22903.jpg

Peterborough: overlooked, under budget

A cathedral city where a townhouse with four bedrooms is only £350,000.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

It'd be cheaper to get the kids a chauffeur than move house

Our accidental landlord weighs up the costs of letting out her home to rent one closer to her children's school.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/wimbledon_2012_22891.jpg

Prosperous, leafy and quiet for the other 50 weeks of the year

Just 17 minutes from Waterloo, Wimbledon wins on commuting appeal.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Are squatters' rights worth it?

During the seven years I have owned my property I have used a gate in the boundary fence to cross my neighbour's back yard to reach the street easily. The neighbour has now bricked up the gate. Is it worth the trouble to claim squatters' rights?

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get a bargain from the Games

Shopkeepers are beginning to panic that no one will go shopping during the Olympics. That means there will be a long summer of sales of household goods. So how can we make the most of it?

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/tube_upgrade_22827.jpg

Missed the last Tube upgrade? Be prepared for the next one

The East London line extension hiked house prices by up to 11 per cent. Now the line is getting a new spur.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_in_the_east_end_22808.jpg

Affordable homes in the East End

The East End has turned rough and tumble into impossibly cool, with vibrant low-priced homes popping up in Limehouse, Bethnal Green, Haggerston, Mile End and Bow.

Published June 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/cool_ibiza_22777.jpg

Ibiza: star-studded capital of cool

High-end design and natural beauty give this island its enduring appeal.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_fringes_22750.jpg

Love life on the edge

The fringes of central London can offer good locations and great value.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/june_2012_events_22738.jpg

Five things to do in June

From pop-up shops in the heart of the West End to New Designers 2012 at Islington, here’s our round-up of the best design events happening in London this month.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/open_garden_squares_weekend_2012_22734.jpg

Open Garden Squares Weekend

London's squares are part of what makes our capital special. Here's your chance to take a peek at 208 of them as they are open to the public this weekend.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

My bathroom horror scene – minus corpse

Hunting for a solution to tenants who are happy to live with mould, our accidental landlord finds a squeegee merchant.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I get compensation for these delays?

I exchanged contracts on a new-build flat which should have completed two months ago but the developer is way behind schedule. My extended mortgage offer expires later this month and I may have to pay more if I have to get a replacement mortgage which could put the deal in jeopardy. Will the developer compensate me?

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to get cheaper foreign cash

For those heading abroad for a summer holiday shopping spree, our money expert has put together a guide on how to get the cheapest foreign currency deals.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/sexy_stratford_22680.jpg

Sexy Stratford

The man behind the glorious and epic restoration of St Pancras Chambers is now adding residential glamour to fast-changing Stratford with a shimmering 42-storey tower rising above the Olympic stadium.

Published June 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Olympic lets: don’t forget the rules and regs

Our accidental landlord guides you through the legal implications of letting your property during the summer Games.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Dad wants to give me a flat for free, so why tell the taxman?

My dad’s thinking of giving me the basement flat of his house. However, our solicitor says that Dad has to pay capital gains tax if he makes the flat a separate entity and gives it to me — even though no money is changing hands. Is he right?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Fall in inflation is a life-saver for Britons

Inflation dropped to 3 per cent in May providing the first bit of good news for savers in quite some time. It means those looking to squirrel away cash now have a big choice of savings accounts that pay more than inflation.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/river_pageant_new_homes_22570.jpg

We'll be watching the pageant from our riverside home

The Jubilee river pageant is London's chance to show off its spectacular waterside new homes. We've come a long way in 60 years...

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/life_under_the_radar_in_tiny_anguilla_22553.jpg

Property in secluded Anguilla

A Caribbean island with 33 beaches, 100 restaurants and homes for less than £500,000. Glamorous travellers love the secluded lifestyle of Anguilla, with Roman Abramovich, Paul McCartney and Sandra Bullock all regular visitors.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/newbuy_scheme_in_hendon_22529.jpg

NewBuy scheme for first-time buyers in Hendon

Waterside homes at Hendon will be sold to first-time buyers with the help of the NewBuy deposit scheme.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can anything be done when a seller puts the price up?

We should have exchanged contracts on our new house last Friday, but the seller upped the price on Thursday by £25,000, so it didn’t happen. Also, his sister is living there and can’t move out until July. Can he do this? Does it matter that’s she’s living there?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Our accidental landlord doesn't know where to look when she ends up meeting a tenant who is happy to chat in just his boxer shorts.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Secret money-saving tips

Times are tight but frugal life doesn’t have to be boring. Follow these secret money-savers - from discounts at Starbucks and the cinema, to free kids meals at restaurants.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_awards_2012_winners_22456.jpg

The best new homes 2012

Here we showcase this year's winners of our London Evening Standard New Homes Awards - the capital's property Oscars.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/popular_holiday_homes_in_western_var_22398.jpg

Homes in western Var

The Var is the second most popular region of France for holiday homes yet remains relatively uncrowded. With 267 miles of coastline and pretty villages, the area also offers quick links to the Porquerolles islands, Corsica and St Tropez.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/limehouse_for_first_time_buyers_22362.jpg

Live the Limehouse lifestyle for less

Limehouse has to be one of London's most atmospheric inner city enclaves - and now first-time buyers are being offered a slice of the action with the launch of new shared ownership flats.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_clerkenwell_22351.jpg

Clerkenwell: the home of loft living

Clerkenwell has become so achingly cool that the affluent young entrepreneurs who work in its creative businesses are desperate to live there, too.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_designer_homes_bloom_in_chelseas_borders_22346.jpg

New homes bloom in Chelsea

New townhouses and flats will divert the crowds from Chelsea's annual flower show this year, with the property market in SW3 something of a hardy perennial itself, growing stronger with each year.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Not even the best tenants come with a guarantee

The accidental landlord discovers that things can go badly wrong no matter how thoroughly you vet your renters.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Farmer is milking me for road repairs

At my weekend house we have a right of way over a private road owned by a local farmer. The farmer has asked me to contribute half the cost of resurfacing the road, however farm traffic use it far more regularly. What can I do?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

There is such a thing as a VAT-free lunch

Shop savvily and you can still avoid VAT in some areas — when buying clothes, holidays and presents, for example. But start with a VAT-free lunch — by making it yourself.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/colonise_the_city_22297.jpg

Only 639 new homes are for sale in Greater London

The scarcity of land is changing the face of London as offices become homes and commercial centres go residential.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/holiday_homes_that_will_please_the_entire_family_22269.jpg

Holiday homes

Multi-generational breaks - where the extended family comes too - are on the rise. Big family holidays need a versatile venue that will satisfy sun worshipping teenagers, keen sporting parents and grandparents looking for leisurely lunches and scenic walks.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_kilburn_22209.jpg

Kilburn: a central postcode with the lowest prices

Knocked off the property map by Notting Hill — but now Kilburn's time has come.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/may_2012_events_22192.jpg

Five things to do in May

The capital's diary is action packed during May, with selling exhibitions showcasing Indian-inspired design, British designer-makers inspired by London's landmarks and the city's street markets get a sophisticated new image.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Faulty tap is a hot issue

Our accidental landlord is wet behind the ears when it comes to DIY – and finds that sometimes there’s no substitute for common sense.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

My solicitor’s fees make no sense to me

Why do solicitors’ fees vary so much?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Forget banks, borrow from a building society

Homeowners looking to remortgage or wannabe first-time buyers hunting for their first home loan: look beyond the big banks. Latest figures suggest the best deals - and most willingness to lend - can come from Britain’s building societies.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shepherds_bush_22132.jpg

As the BBC move out, Shepherd's Bush switches to a new programme

As Aunty leaves the Bush the borough seizes the opportunity to create a proper neighbourhood.

Published May 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bermondsey_buzz_22109.jpg

Bermondsey's beginning to buzz

A new cultural quarter is emerging in an area an easy walk from the City.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/commuter_renters_22100.jpg

We're taking a journey into space

A new breed of renter/commuter is getting extra room for less money.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Making a mess of your house is child's play for tenants

Our accidental landlord has learned from bitter experience to keep anything breakable a suitably safe distance away from her renters.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Building work is making our lives miserable

Our building is surrounded by two huge ongoing construction projects, with two or three years to go. We can't use our patio area, I have health problems because of the dust and my husband can't work from home for all the noise. Can we get compensation?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Our dream home in the country has no mains water. So what?

We’ve found the perfect place but it's worrying our solicitor. He is astonished that there's no mains water. Should we be concerned? What are the issues with this?

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to double your money in 10 years

If you are prepared to take a bit more risk but like the security of fixed-interest returns, you can put the whole 2012-13 Isa allowance of £11,280 — and existing Isas both cash and share based — into something like a corporate bond fund or individual preference shares, bonds or PIBS (permanent interest-bearing shares).

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/grand_designs_live_2012_22044.jpg

Grand Designs Live 2012

Grand Designs Live, the feature-packed home and garden show, returns to ExCeL London with more than 500 exhibitors and a host of imaginative ideas for your home.

Published May 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_new_garden_squares_22026.jpg

London's new garden squares

London is already the greenest capital in Europe, with homeowners enjoying more than 600 garden squares. And the good news is that there are more to come.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/if_youre_looking_for_luxury_buy_into_the_brand_22006.jpg

If you're looking for luxury, buy into the brand

The perfect second home abroad combines a charmed lifestyle with a solid investment. "Branded residences" attempt to combine these two ideas by linking a luxury hotel or designer name with high-end residential space.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/foodies_festival_hampton_court_palace_21990.jpg

Foodies Festival: Hampton Court

The heady aromas of Michelin-starred chefs preparing their favourite dishes on the Palace Green at Hampton Court will be tempting the capital's foodies this bank holiday weekend.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/stratfords_towering_achievement_21983.jpg

Stratford's towering achievement

The first new homes are off the blocks — with fabulous Olympics views.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/aylesbury_snake_21961.jpg

Snake that gets you on the ladder

Affordable living is taking a fresh twist in Aylesbury with the unveiling of the lean, green Serpentine.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Well, they say cannabis makes you paranoid…

Our accidental landlord is spooked by a chance remark and the responsibility of keeping an eye on new neighbours.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

A couple with twins are double trouble

A couple with twin baby boys have moved into one of the groundfloor flats in our block and keep leaving the buggy in the hallway and two baby car seats that partly block access to the stairs and lift. What can be done?

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/zones_for_homes_in_the_west_end_21921.jpg

Zones for homes in the West End

The demographic shift in London’s population has seen more and more people looking for a permanent home in the city’s centre — with parts of the West End now being turned into residential zones.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Switch to the best credit card deal

Switching your credit card to one of the best deals can help those who are in the red save thousands of pounds in interest charges.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_londons_historic_mansions_21858.jpg

New homes in London's historic mansions

Over the past three decades architects have honed their skills as thousands of new homes have been created in period properties, ranging from Georgian warehouses through to Victorian hospitals and redundant Fifties factories.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/former_ferrier_estate_gets_an_affordable_makeover_21847.jpg

A new 'village' in Greenwich

London's grimmest sink estate is being sunk — replaced by new homes and new schools. The £1 billion regeneration scheme of Ferrier Estate in Greenwich is considered one of Europe's most ambitious housing projects.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/join_the_club_on_the_oversees_greens_21829.jpg

Golfing estates abroad

There are clever ways to tempt non-players to buy a home on a golfing estate abroad - such as luxury spas and family-friendly pools. Join the club on the overseas greens in southern Spain, Portugal, Italy and Mauritius.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/from_bauhaus_to_our_house_21816.jpg

From Bauhaus to our house

The Barbican's current exhibition - Bauhaus: Art is Life - is the first major British show on this influential German design movement since the Sixties, and features 400 works of architecture, furniture, painting, film and much more.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get well informed before you rent – ignorance is only bliss to a bad landlord

Our accidental landlord warns tenants never to hand over a deposit or any rent until they are starting to move in.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is this a plot to turn our paddock into the village green?

A field next to our house has come up for sale. Just recently I’ve noticed children using the land as a football pitch and families turning up for picnics. It’s quite a new thing but is there any chance that someone will make a claim to have the field turned into some sort of village green?

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get online discounts on the high street

Savvy online shoppers have got used to securing savings via cashback - receiving a proportion of the purchase price back when buying via specific links - but now high street shoppers can do the same.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_hi_tech_new_homes_21740.jpg

Smart homes are being built for families who live iPad lives

Flexible space, colour-changing interiors, face-recognition and digital controls are for a new era of families.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/swiss_and_french_alps_21711.jpg

Buy one home - get two countries

The Portes du Soleil puts the Swiss and French Alps at your feet.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/stockwell_hundreds_of_new_homes_and_community_park_21696.jpg

Stockwell's new homes: Myatts Fields North

Young families will love the news that Stockwell is soon to have one of the city's largest new parks at Myatts Fields North, with 808 new homes, allotments and a community centre.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/online_room_renting_scheme_airbnb_21671.jpg

Rent your spare room with Airbnb

Hollywood actor Ashton Kutcher is a keen fan of Airbnb - an online room-renting scheme that is sweeping London.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

People who live in glass houses should get consent

I am selling my house. My buyer is creating because I had a conservatory built for which I obtained planning permission and building regulation consent, but no consent from the developer. Why did I need the developer’s approval?

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Do your research and be ready to move fast

Our accidental landlord offers advice to would-be tenants entering the tough rental market for the first time.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_new_apartment_blocks_with_nurseries_21647.jpg

New homes with nurseries

More young London families are opting for the convenience of apartment living. Developers are responding by building city-centre flats with nurseries and play areas.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Go online for the cheapest holidays

The Easter break has whetted our appetite for the long summer holidays, but how do you get the best value in these cash-strapped times? High street travel agents may have lost the battle to online traders but time-honoured booking rules still hold good — do it well in advance, or at the last minute, for the best deals.

Published April 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/paddington_cucumber_new_homes_21619.jpg

New homes as cool as the Cucumber

Take a cocktail in the Sky Bar and celebrate Paddington Basin’s 600 new homes from the top of London’s latest tower.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/gibraltar_remains_as_solid_as_a_rock_21612.jpg

Gibraltar remains as solid as a rock

Homebuyers love the British colony with low taxes, no unemployment and the highest growth rate in western Europe. There is nothing uncertain about Gibraltar.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_flats_for_young_renters_21574.jpg

As London becomes a city of renters, flats for the 'Facebook generation' arrive

Thousands of new homes for rent are being built in London aimed at young people who have made a lifestyle choice to be tenants.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bromley_south_central_21566.jpg

Putting fizz into London's biggest borough: Bromley

A £90 million scheme with urban flair will revitalise Bromley.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

I’ll do all the paperwork after I’ve arranged the sock drawer

Our accidental landlord pledges to make a clean start for the new tax year by sorting out all the receipts hiding under her desk – unless she can find another chore.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can buying chattels lower stamp duty?

I am paying £2.05 million for a property in Fulham. My estate agent says I should pay some of the purchase price for “chattels”, presumably to lower the asking price below £2 million. What’s going on?

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/five_things_to_see_in_april_2012_21538.jpg

Five things to see in April

This month, the Decorative Antiques and Textiles Fair returns to Battersea Park, Clerkenwell design store Viaduct hosts Food & Chairs Shared, and the giant tea set gracing the Geffrye Museum's front garden announces new show At Home with the World.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Death of interest-only mortgages

With more lenders tightening the lending criteria on interest-only mortgages, there are fears that hundreds of thousands of borrowers will be unable to remortgage their homes.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_new_riverside_homes_2012_21508.jpg

London's new riverside homes

This weekend's Boat Race is the starting gun in the spring search for a new waterside home as Londoners clamour to live by the river.

Published April 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/barbados_sports_resorts_and_new_homes_21414.jpg

Barbados: sports resorts and new homes

Barbados has lost none of its colonial charm and has survived the global receession largely unscathed. And now this British favourite has added sports resorts, smart shops and new homes.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

List of shame is no joke for poor tenants

Our accidental landlord decides a website designed to protect landlords could end up being unfair on decent renters.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_starter_homes_in_highbury_and_islington_21386.jpg

Affordable housing for families

Highbury and Islington are among the smart London areas offering good-size starter properties large enough to suit young families.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

What is the best way to discharge a mortgage?

My mortgage is coming to an end very soon. I've received a letter from my bank asking me if I want to use my solicitor to discharge the bank's legal charge on the property or whether I want them to do it for me. Will it make any difference who does it?

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Pay your rent or be blacklisted

Reckless renters watch out - soon if you’re in arrears with your rent, or dare to do a moonlight flit, it could go down as a black mark on your credit file making it difficult to get credit cards or a mortgage.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/victoria_revamp_21327.jpg

The launch of Victoria's £2 billion revamp

Minutes from Buckingham Palace and Belgravia, Victoria is still the cheapest land in central London. But not for long.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/majorca_an_island_for_all_seasons_21322.jpg

An island for all seasons

Majorca is big enough to offer plenty of variety and small enough that little is more than an hour away from the capital, Palma. Be quick to snap up a property on this sophisticated Balearic island.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/world_beating_british_design_21269.jpg

World-beating British design

Britain makes a huge contribution to design worldwide and a major exhibition at the V&A celebrates the nation's creativity.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The landlord has got me over a barrel

Having rented my flat for 17 months on an assured shorthold tenancy my landlord has now served me with a “Section 13” notice, bumping up my rent by 11 per cent. He says I can either accept the new rent or be served a notice to quit. What can I do?

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Getting a good night’s sleep makes for a happier tenant

When it comes to buying bedroom furniture our accidental landlord finds that spending a bit more on a mattress can pay dividends.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/newbuy_scheme_for_first_time_buyers_21237.jpg

NewBuy scheme for first-time buyers

The NewBuy scheme aims to get 100,000 people on the property ladder by offering 95 per cent mortgages. We look at the details and where to buy.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to cut your water bills

Water bills are dropping through letterboxes — and many will be a shock. Average bills in London top £300 and are set to rise even more next year. Unlike gas and electricity providers, you can’t switch water companies — they’re dictated by where you live. But there are ways to save.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/fast_trains_to_avignon_21210.jpg

Non-stop to Avignon: fast trains with no pain

Trains leave St Pancras almost hourly, taking 135 minutes to reach Paris and connecting onwards to sought-after cities such as Bordeaux and Avignon. With great cities within such easy reach, UK buyers could do well to get on board.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/saving_water_21193.jpg

Saving water is a smart new lifestyle

London homes use 150 litres of water a day. Let’s get it down to 80.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/best_views_covent_garden_21189.jpg

Bag the best views at Covent Garden

For the first time in 40 years you can buy a new home overlooking the bustling heart of the capital.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/how_to_find_the_right_rental_property_21158.jpg

How to find the right rental property

Sky-rocketing prices, homes snapped up within hours and rampant gazumping - this is the London rental market in 2012. We ask the industry experts how renters should go about finding a suitable property at the right price.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/wapping_lane_new_affordable_homes_21153.jpg

Wapping: new homes near the City

Until now, Wapping has been overshadowed by the more fashionable districts of Shoreditch and Limehouse, but this quiet and modern east London suburb has affordable new homes within easy reach of the City.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Was it a case of burglary by brochure?

After buying our house, the estate agent sent a mail shot round the neighbourhood boasting about the sale, giving the full address, asking price and internal and external photos. Two days later I was burgled. Do agents have a right to do this?

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Students are an acquired taste… but it’s your call

Our accidental landlord learns why having undergraduates for tenants is not something every landlord finds palatable.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Fasten your seat belt as car insurance prices bump up

Motorists might find the cost of petrol eye-watering but filling up at the pumps could soon look like a bargain compared with buying car insurance.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/portobello_square_21107.jpg

Portobello Square - award-winning new homes

Well-priced flats and houses with garages will join new shops as part of a stunning regeneration project in west London.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/abaco_island_21070.jpg

Live the easy life in the Bahamas

Candy-coloured houses, white sandy beaches and a safe family vibe make Abaco a paradise destination. Rent or buy your own property in new luxury resorts on this peaceful island in the Bahamas.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_show_10_march_2012_21027.jpg

Affordable homes show: Greenwich

The first affordable homes show of the year will be at Greenwich's grand Old Naval College, showcasing more than 40 developments in south-east London.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Three's a crowd when buying a home

We are buying a house from a couple who are splitting up. When we offered on the house both were on the title deed. But now they have registered the house in her name and he has taken out a charge against the property. Should we be worried?

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Go online for discount deals

New online ideas are aiming to capitalise on collective buying power to secure discounts. As well as lifestyle offers from Groupon and wowcher, it’s worth checking out money-saving deals on gas, electricity, insurance and telecoms.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/a_home_near_crossrail_20992.jpg

A home near Crossrail could be your ticket to a profit

Crossrail is set to have an astonishing impact on regeneration in the capital as exclusive new research reveals.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/join_the_weekend_ski_set_20980.jpg

Join the weekend ski set

Can you work in London, yet also spend 45 days a year skiiing from a base in the French Alps? With the right group of friends and a good amount of planning, it might be easier that it sounds.

Published March 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/stamp_duty_holiday_ends_for_first_time_buyers_20954.jpg

End of stamp duty "holiday" looms

Record numbers of first-time buyers have been house-hunting since the introduction of the stamp duty waiver. Late starters only have until March 24 to save £2,500.

Published March 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/march_2012_events_20949.jpg

Five things to do in March

Learn how to live a greener life at Ecobuild, see how contemporary furniture is created at Input and visit the big shopping beano that is the Ideal Home Show.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_near_olympic_games_venues_20944.jpg

Homes in the Olympic spotlight

Affordable housing schemes are springing up around key Games venues sparking a London development boom, from Earls Court to the Docklands.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to avoid getting that sinking feeling

Please could you tell us if it is illegal to continue selling houses on an estate when it’s been discovered that there is subsidence?

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Stop paying phantom subscriptions

Britons are wasting millions on long-forgotten standing orders that are being needlessly stripped from bank accounts every month. So it’s time we all had a banking spring clean.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/enjoy_the_tuscan_life_20903.jpg

Enjoy the Tuscan life

Tuscany in central Italy, still the top Italian destination for British buyers, has plenty of opportunities for investors with money and patience. Look to forgotten Castelfalfi for 200 new homes.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/east_londons_creative_hub_20883.jpg

East London's creative hub

The eastern fringe of the City, from Aldgate round to Shoreditch, is alive with digital and creative companies, and fashionable new homes.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/kings_cross_first_affordable_homes_20839.jpg

King's Cross: the first affordable homes

First-time buyers go to the front of the queue at London's most exciting regeneration project - King's Cross Central.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will the council get tough with my neighbour?

The legal issues explained about planning permission, boundaries and extensions.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Don’t let car parking get you in a spot

When the parking gets difficult, our accidental landlord devises a cunning plan to fool the local traffic warden.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get it wrapped up with a tax-free ISA

It is hard to cross the road without one billboard or another reminding you about the Isa deadline. But a lot of Britons are failing to make the most of another side of the tax-free allowance: the stocks and shares Isa.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/profit_from_londons_regeneration_zones_20796.jpg

Calculate the price per square foot of homes in London's prime areas - and be surprised

Make the right moves to profit from London's regeneration zones and its good-value micro markets.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_become_a_guaranteed_first_time_buyer_20784.jpg

Guarantee scheme for first time buyers

New government schemes will offer a big leg-up for those struggling to find deposits. Our property expert finds the best on offer.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/profitable_homes_in_paris_20766.jpg

Paris: homes in the city of love

A new apartment block will offer a rare opportunity to invest in 'old Paris' with views of the Seine.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/city_hall_new_homes_20747.jpg

Hundreds of new homes next door to City Hall

Hundreds of private apartments and a selection of affordable homes have been unveiled next to London's centre of government in SE1 - with views of London's iconic Tower Bridge.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

A solution for damp – try not breathing

Our accidental landlord learns that granny wasn’t crazy for ‘airing’ her rooms – as a steamed-up tenant soon proves.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Deed of trust is key to buying with a partner

My partner and I are buying our first house together with no mortgage. I am paying 80 per cent of the purchase price and my partner is paying 20 per cent. We want the house in our joint names. How can I protect my investment?

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Energy giants give something away!

It’s still freezing out there, meaning energy price rises are continuing to have a big impact. So it’s worth capitalising on a rare piece of generosity from gas and electricity providers.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/central_london_launches_record_number_of_new_homes_20703.jpg

Central London launches record number of new homes

Design drives the market across the capital from Marylebone village to Clerkenwell and Shoreditch.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_housing_options_for_west_end_workers_20642.jpg

Affordable housing for WestEnders

A new scheme will help the West End's vital young workforce find flats to share at affordable rents, while new shared ownership schemes are helping Westminster's first-time buyers.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/olympic_rentals_let_down_20629.jpg

Olympic rentals let-down

In some London boroughs it will be illegal to let your home during the Games. And even 'approved' landlords face making slim profits.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_shard_is_at_the_sharp_end_20627.jpg

The Shard is at the sharp end of London's rapidly shifting cityscape

Apartments in the Shard will set new price records as Europe's tallest tower moves the city's centre of gravity eastward.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Plan ahead in disputes over extenstions

Our neighbours have just been granted planning permission to build an extension on the side of their house that will have quite an impact on our property. We would have ojected but had no idea they had made an application. Is there anything we can do now?

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgage costs fall to an eight-year low

Mortgage payments for first-time buyers are at their lowest for eight years thanks to record low interest rates, with competition among lenders driving down the cost of borrowing.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/all_the_fun_of_a_second_home_without_the_headaches_20575.jpg

Holiday homes: buying in the UK

There are smart ways to enjoy a weekend home — in town or country — without the hassle and high costs. Homes & Property take a closer look at the New Forest, central London and the Cotswolds.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_stratford_move_in_before_olympics_20544.jpg

Affordable Stratford: move in before the Olympics

First-time buyers don't have to wait until after the Olympics for a Stratford flat with cracking views.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/central_st_martins_gives_kings_cross_the_edge_20535.jpg

Central St Martins gives King's Cross the edge

Central St Martins' new campus is fizzing and the first of 2,000 homes are launched, as 67 acres of King's Cross becomes London's hottest district.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/february_2012_events_20512.jpg

Five things to see in February

February is a great month for ceramics, with three inspiring shows, but you can also get to grips with 3D printing and bone up on British architects.

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Home near substation sparks health concerns

We have found the perfect home - almost. It has an electrical substation in a fenced-off area just behind the house. Should we have any health concerns about being so close to a substation?

Published February 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Twelve easy ways to make extra cash

If you're sick of our gloom and doom economy, take action and find ways to make yourself some much-needed extra dosh. We've found a dozen ways to make money.

Published February 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_into_glorious_weekends_on_the_austrian_lakes_20481.jpg

Homes abroad: Austrian lakes

With a combination of lakes, mountains and fresh air, Zell am See has it all for those who love the great outdoors. Homes & Property discovers why this Alpine town is attracting UK buyers.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/elephant_and_castle_plan_20463.jpg

Elephant and Castle's £1.5bn plan is good to go

At last a dazzling makeover for south London's biggest eyesore is approved. We get an exclusive preview.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_oldest_streets_20451.jpg

London's oldest streets offer today's hottest opportunities

The City's fringe districts have moved with the times for 1,000 years. Now they are ready for spectacular change.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Olympic gold is not as easy as you think

Our accidental landlord opts for a house swap to Reykjavik in August to avoid the hassle of de-cluttering and renting for the Olympics.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Don't just have one solicitor when you can have two

We are taking out a second mortgage as part of getting my husband's business refinanced. I understand the risks but have been told I must take see another solicitor for independent advice. Can I refuse and save my money?

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

For a nicer ISA seek that transfer now

Job for the day: check the interest rate you are getting from your ISA. If it is rubbish then move it, and if you have not used up your ISA allowance for this year, then do it now.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/sublime_switzerland_at_its_peak_20399.jpg

Sublime Switzerland at its peak

Glitzy Verbier may be the main ski attraction, but low-key villages share the same slopes and offer amazing Alpine value.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_to_let_ready_to_take_the_big_step_20362.jpg

Buy-to-let: ready to take the big step?

Homes & Property asks landlords for their advice to savers looking to purchase a buy-to-let property.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/rent_into_mortgage_20349.jpg

How to turn your rent into a mortgage

Discounted rents will help young Londoners with jobs to save for that all-important deposit.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/greenwich_the_new_olympic_royal_borough_20343.jpg

Greenwich: the new Olympic Royal Borough

Greenwich is celebrating the summer's Games with spectacular pageantry — and unlocking a bend in the Thames to offer riverside homes with views of the festivities.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The pitfalls of getting friendly with tenants

Our accidental landlord tries to be nice but ends up in a near miss with Porsche and has a brush with a security guard.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Who is responsible for our roof repairs?

I live in the upper flat of a two-storey house. The owner of the downstairs flat and I have long leases and pay £100 a year to the owner of the freehold. She lives in Devon and we never see her. Who owns the roof and who should pay for the repair?

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Ditch the big six and buy cheaper fuel

Energy prices are up and down like yo-yos. Following double-digit hikes in both gas and electricity prices by the big six providers at the start of winter, now most are set to cut electricity bills by about five per cent. But there are other ways to reduce your fuel bills and looking further afield for your energy is one of them.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_koolhaas_acid_test_20306.jpg

OMA at the Barbican

The capital gets the Koolhaas magic with a masterplan for White City, new homes at the Commonwealth Institute and the wow factor for Rothchild's bank.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/some_caribbean_sparkle_will_see_you_through_winter_20289.jpg

Find a gem in the Caribbean

With 23 million visitors a year, rental demand in the Caribbean is strong. Take advantage of the current low price points and find yourself an island gem.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/staircase_to_full_home_ownership_in_bow_20283.jpg

Full home ownership in Bow

Shared-ownership buyers can purchase up to 80 per cent from the start in an innovative new scheme in Bow. Our property expert covers all the bases.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_twelve_hot_areas_for_2012_20244.jpg

London’s twelve hot areas for 2012

London is bursting with regeneration schemes and transport improvements that are creating new property-buying opportunities — and not just for the city’s wealthy elite. Resourceful buyers on modest budgets can be winners, too.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The accidental landlord

Should my house ever catch fire, the first thing I’d try to rescue (after the children, of course) would be my Little Black Book of Contacts because without it, I’m doomed. As a landlord it’s my most useful tool. To be honest, it’s my only tool.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Avoid a pitched battle over garden fence

My neighbour has just replaced two panels in the fence between our gardens. The post between the panels is now on my side and the fence very noticeably encroaches on my land. What should I do about this?

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/january_2012_events_20200.jpg

Five free things to do in January

2012 heralds the year of the dragon and Trafalgar Square will host the main festivities for Chinese new year. Plus: don't miss the twisted red metal Tatlin's Tower in the Royal Academy's courtyard.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

New year credit card hangovers

New year, new credit card bills landing heavily on the doorstep? With all the signs suggesting that the economy is only going to get worse this year, it’s crucial to get your money in order now to give you some shelter from future storms.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/europe_coastal_hotspots_20177.jpg

Europe: coastal hotspots

Europe's coastal hotspots attract clever investors looking for easy sea-side access. The trusted favourites of France and Spain's Balearic islands are hard to beat: only a few hours from London where sun and sea combine.

Published January 2012

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/what_a_difference_a_year_makes_20171.jpg

What a difference a year makes

Kick-start 2012 by taking advantage of the overseas property bargains across Europe and beyond.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/tips_for_first_time_buyers_20162.jpg

Tips for first-time buyers: find future hotspots

Deposits may be a headache but even buyers on modest budgets can be winners, too.

Published January 2012

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_on_the_thames_20102.jpg

New homes on the Thames

Riverside living will be big in 2012. Homes & Property reveals its exclusive buyers' guide of the top 10 new areas to watch out for.

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Make sure your lease is watertight

There are what seem to be cracks on the external walls of our new leashold flat. Are we responsible for the soundness of the external walls, or is it the freeholder’s responsibility?

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Just say no to an extended warranty

The extended warranty business is worth £750 million a year. But are these guarantees worth it? Probably not. In fact, the industry is under investigation by the Office of Fair Trading which is looking into its value-for-money claims.

Published December 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_a_slice_of_paradise_in_thailand_20093.jpg

Koh Kood, Thailand

No ATMs, just beautiful villas, coconut trees, waterfalls, white sand and gin-clear seas. The island of Koh Kood is filled with untouched idyllic charm.

Published December 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/council_estates_but_not_as_we_know_them_20011.jpg

Council estates - but not as we know them

Exciting new regeneration projects using public sector land are a good choice for first-time buyers.

Published December 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/live_above_a_shop_new_homes_for_retail_therapy_19991.jpg

Live above a shop: new homes built for retail therapy

From Bloomsbury to Belgravia, Marylebone to Mayfair, South Kensington to the Square Mile - buy a new home above a smart London high street and meet your friends for coffee.

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/nha2012_call_for_entries_19986.jpg

Call for entries

Every year we reward the best homes and developments built in the region during the last twelve months, and this year it could be one of your projects that wins an award. The London Evening Standard invites housebuilders to enter our 21st annual New Homes Awards.

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Do I have to pay both estate agents?

I put my house on the market with one estate agent and didn't have an offer in six months. I then went through another agent and got an offer with a buyer who had initially viewed the house under the first agent. Who do I have to pay commission to?

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Your Christmas gift is a tax saver

If the current economic outlook is making you feel gloomier than a Christmas turkey why not give a gift that makes someone happy — eventually. A pension for your child.

Published December 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buy_to_let_where_should_you_buy_19947.jpg

Buy-to-let: best areas

If you are ready to invest long-term in a buy-to-let property, make sure you find the most profitable area.

Published December 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_city_and_clerkenwell_19923.jpg

The City and Clerkenwell join London’s 'hot and posh' postcode list

The capital's business district is shaking off its pinstripes and offering a lifestyle buzz, while the City-fringe area of Clerkenwell has grown into a world-famous centre for creatives and a cachet address.

Published December 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Christmas: 'tis the season to be miserly

Christmas on a shoestring: that’s the plan for 60 per cent of Britons this time round. Soaring household bills, squeezed pay packets and uncertain job prospects mean the majority of gift-givers will spend less on presents, food, booze and cards this year.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/glamorous_homes_on_the_venice_lido_20013.jpg

Glamorous homes on the Venice Lido

Escape the Venice crowds by water taxi to Lido where new apartments have the glamour of the island's heyday.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/young_vibrant_medway_19856.jpg

Young, vibrant and full of life

The Victory Pier, Medway, tempts young buyers in no hurry to 'settle down'. Plus a round-up of other affordable commutes.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_offices_are_being_converted_into_new_homes_19826.jpg

From office space to new homes

An astonishing 4 million sq ft of central London office space has been turned into homes in 10 years. And 1.8 million sq ft more is in the pipeline.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How much of my house will my ex-partner get?

I split from my partner five years ago and she is living in our house with our children. I haven't sold the property as they need somewhere to live and I thought my investment was safe. Does the recent Kernott v Jones judgement change things?

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Don't miss out on savings: remortgage now

A surprising two thirds of homeowners admit that they are languishing on the same mortgage deal they initially struck when moving into their home - missing out on the biggest budgeting idea of them all - remortgaging.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/personal_finance_buying_in_london_19778.jpg

Personal finance: buying in London

Rocketing rail costs and job worries are prompting many 'exiled' Londoners to return to the capital. One couple share their experience.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/family_homes_for_first_time_buyers_19771.jpg

Affordable family homes

Spiralling property prices and a shortage of lower-value new-build family houses has made it tricky for first-time buyers to get their foot on the property ladder. Now builders are rising to the challenge.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/portugals_algarve_19765.jpg

Bag a coastal bargain

Prices have tumbled on the Algarve, making this the time to bag a beautiful coastal bargain.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is this cash back incentive too good to be true?

We are buying a new-build house and the developer says that though we are paying £575,000 for it, he will give us £25,000 cash back. It all sounds great but are there any concerns we should have?

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_wapping_19716.jpg

Wapping is back in fashion

Wapping is going for gold. Recently unveiled plans will make it Docklands' most fashionable quarter.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get smart with your smartphone cover

Thousands of gadget-lovers have flocked to buy the latest iPhone 4OS, but costing at least £499 to buy outright, and even more over the duration of a contract, it’s crucial to consider your cover if an expensive smartphone breaks. Or, just as likely, falls down the loo.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/mauritius_tempts_homeowners_to_stay_a_little_longer_19673.jpg

Mauritius tempts homeowners to stay a little longer

Glamorous holiday destination Mauritius has new homes for those with a longer stay in mind.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_conservation_areas_19661.jpg

New homes in conservation areas

London has 1,000 conservation areas. Now you can buy a new-build designer home on these prestigious streets.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Why are two surveys better than one?

We're buying a house and only require a 50 per cent mortgage. Of course, our lender still wants us to pay for a survey, which we understand. But is there any point in paying for our own survey, too?

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The charity bonds that keep on giving

Donating money to charity usually gives donors a dose of goodwill - but little else. A new charity bond, however, pays a market-leading rate as well as donating a percentage to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/alchemy_adds_extra_to_the_ordinary_19586.jpg

Alchemy adds extra to the ordinary

A new gallery features artists who turn the humble and unwanted into something precious.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/low_cost_skiing_and_year_round_sports_in_the_austrian_alps_19573.jpg

Year-round sports in the Austrian Alps

UK skiers and sports lovers now have a new three-times-a-week air service to Salzburg.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_olympic_eyeful_towers_19560.jpg

The Olympic eyeful towers

New high-rise homes with views over the Olympic Park will be launched before and after the 2012 Games.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/battersea_gets_the_tube_and_thousands_of_new_homes_19547.jpg

Battersea gets the Tube - and thousands of new homes

With the go ahead for two new Tube stations, plus 16,000 new homes in the pipeline, you soon won't recognise Battersea and neighbouring Nine Elms.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/five_things_to_see_in_november_19542.jpg

Five things to see in November

From fantastical chandeliers and the design genius of everyday things to an 80th birthday retrospective with Terence Conran and a bazaar stocked by London's most original designers, here's the lowdown on where to go this month.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

If it's not nailed down, don't pay cash for it

We’ve just moved into a new property. A week before the completion date we paid the sellers in cash for their Aga. However, when we got here we found the Aga had been removed. So what do we do now?

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mates' rates when you buy in bulk

Shopping with friends used to mean a Saturday afternoon in the high street with the girls buying a top for your evening out. Nowadays, Saturday afternoon is more likely to be spent buying a multipack of household goods and dividing it up among friends keen to save money.

Published November 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/rent_now_buy_later_19486.jpg

Rent now, buy later

It costs young Londoners £6,000 a year more to rent than to buy. A new scheme for first-time buyers allows them to pay rent for a property now, with a chance to buy later.

Published November 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/french_chateau_19473.jpg

Fortify your rental plans with a French château

The bigger your purchase the better — there is more money to be made from your impressive second home.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shared_equity_deals_at_east_city_point_19459.jpg

Shared equity deals for first-time buyers

As deposit demands soar, one scheme in E16 offers hope for creditworthy - but cash-poor - first-time buyers.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/count_the_cubic_feet_19457.jpg

Count the cubic feet

Many buyers are not only looking at a property's 'footprint' but at the cubic space it offers, as extra height adds value.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The owner made some chilling changes

I've seen a property I like but the agent has warned me that it does not have building regulation approval for alterations that have been done. Should I be worried?

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgage hunters do it in threes

Thanks to the toxic cocktail of record low interest rates, high inflation and banks demanding ever-greater deposits, two is no longer company and three is certainly no crowd when it comes to applying for a first mortgage.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/paris_new_york_or_rome_set_your_sights_on_a_big_city_19380.jpg

Paris, New York or Rome: set your sights on a big city

Overseas cities are becoming a favourite with London second-home buyers who want to enjoy another vibrant lifestyle and a great rental return.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_near_londons_tube_stations_19353.jpg

New homes near Tube stations

Homes within a five-to 10-minute walk of a Tube are, on average, the most expensive in an area. To find a bargain you must know your train station strategy and do your research.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Am I creating a problem in one fell swoop?

We live in a conservation area and have a large tree in our garden that is causing damage. There is no Tree Preservation Order in place but my neighbour says I still need to tell the council if I wish to fell the tree. Is this correct?

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

They’re cooking the books on gas

It’s the news thousands of customers have suspected for years - Britain’s biggest energy firms give wrong information and “dodgy advice” to customers who try to switch their gas and electricity deals.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/putting_on_the_glitz_riba_19299.jpg

Putting on the Glitz: celebrating Art Deco

The RIBA's fascinating free exhibition celebrates the beauty of Art Deco in architecture and interiors throughout the capital and beyond.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/an_alpine_hideaway_you_can_afford_19295.jpg

An Alpine hideaway you can afford

Idyllic Swiss ski lodge for £184,255 with a guaranteed rental income? This is how to enjoy the snow.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/for_a_buzz_on_a_budget_head_south_19277.jpg

For a buzz on a budget - head south

Lively south-east London postcodes offer amazing value close to good transport and jobs.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will my house be in multiple occupation?

Our house is too big for us and so we have a plan: we want to buy a smaller place and convert our house into bedsits as an investment project. Everyone tells me we have to be aware of "HMO". So what's that?

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_london_penthouses_19258.jpg

New London penthouses

Penthouses are the ultimate lair and some of the most affordable get the best views. Homes and Property show you the glistening offers across London.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/october_2011_events_diary_19383.jpg

October events diary

Don't miss the gorgeous exhibitions of modern glass, craft and design art across the capital this month.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Another way the banks rip you off...

For most customers, the benefits of paid-for current accounts aren’t worth it. And a marvellous, one-off exclusive deal is rarely as good as it sounds.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/getting_young_londoners_on_the_property_ladder_19194.jpg

Getting young Londoners on the property ladder

How do young Londoners get their first step on the property ladder? Homes & Property talk to a couple who pooled their savings together to buy a ground-floor flat in Islington.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/noble_new_homes_in_hampstead_19187.jpg

Noble new homes in Hampstead

Hampstead is said to have more millionaires within its boundaries than anywhere else in the UK. It is also the famous home of the Queen's portrait painter which is becoming the area's new top address.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/take_in_the_vistas_in_umbria_19184.jpg

Take in the vistas in Umbria

Rebuilding an ancient Umbrian village with a dramatic natural setting became a passion for two Rome architects with a soft spot for the British, while in Promano, an Englishman is breathing life into an ancient farm on the River Tevere.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shared_ownership_options_that_open_doors_19151.jpg

Affordable homes: shared-ownership

A new wave of developments is providing hope for those unable to buy a property outright. Homes and Property take you through the new schemes in the North London area.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/westminster_is_the_future_for_new_homes_19146.jpg

New homes in Westminster

This smart central London location is the capital's most under-valued hotspot with creative companies, fashionable bars and restaurants all keen to move in.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Put your savings somewhere safe

Is economic Armageddon mark-II upon us? It's best to be prepared and think about where to put your savings.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_east_london_homes_for_young_buyers_19082.jpg

Affordable East London homes for young buyers

East London remains a happy hunting ground for young buyers who don't mind some grit with their property oyster.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/live_the_quiet_life_in_ibiza_19064.jpg

Live the quiet life in Ibiza

Buy a home in a quiet corner of Ibiza to recover from all that partying and wake up to birdsong and the smell of rosemary.

Published October 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_is_building_an_olympics_city_19051.jpg

London is building an Olympics city

Half the capital now lives east of London Bridge but how many will benefit from the 2012 legacy? Homes & Property suggests where to buy.

Published October 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/fast_trains_are_transforming_good_value_kent_19042.jpg

Fast trains are transforming Kent

Home ownership is up to 53 per cent cheaper in several well-connected commuter towns, according to new research. With recently-reduced train times, many young buyers are heading to Kent.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/thank_franc_for_bargains_in_switzerland_19030.jpg

Thank franc for bargains in Switzerland

Alpine homes became 10 per cent cheaper overnight when Switzerland pegged its currency.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

What's creeping about in the small print?

I've just inherited a flat and would like to have a go at renting it out for holiday lets. How can I find out if I'm allowed to do so?

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Switch mortgage rates - and make it snappy

Homeowners sitting on a standard variable-rate mortgage should switch now, say brokers.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/ischgl_is_party_central_for_the_ski_set_18988.jpg

Ischgl is party central for the ski set

Enjoy 148 miles of snow-sure piste and the lively nightlife of this friendly Austrian ski resort.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/hackney_new_homes_with_history_18975.jpg

Hackney: new homes with history

Hackney's music hall, glamorous Cliveden, and even military married quarters are creating an intriguing history for the latest new homes schemes.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/low_energy_new_homes_that_are_high_on_design_18957.jpg

Energy-efficient new homes that are high on design

The autumn's launches include crisp, clean architecture for central London buyers, plus homes with garages in Thames-side locations.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to keep freshers within budget

New research reveals students now pay an average £320 a month in rent and £58 on utilities - add that to food, fun and transport costs, factor and it's clear that cost-cutting must begin at the start of uni.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Ask the expert

We are buying a flat and our solicitors seem more concerned about the requirements of our building society than our questions about the property. Why?

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/barking_up_the_right_tree_18885.jpg

Barking up the right tree

Barking, once a grim part of the East End, has grand ideas. September sees it launch as Europe's biggest new town and a family destination.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/piers_of_the_realm_18869.jpg

Piers of the realm

A new pier at Vauxhall will give homeowners a river taxi to work from their very posh Thames-side pads.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/postmodernism_the_ism_with_attitude_18865.jpg

Postmodernism: the -ism with attitude

As the V&A hosts a show, our art expert takes a look at the origins of Postmodernism.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/little_england_must_learn_to_think_big_18858.jpg

Little England must learn to think big

We have shameful shoebox homes, the smallest in Europe says an exclusive RIBA report. But we are growing up.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_design_festival_2011_18837.jpg

London Design Festival 2011

The Union Jacks are flying high at this year's London Design Festival as British-based talent leads the world with innovation and flair at more than 280 events.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Don't call anyone at Christmas

BT has announced a five per cent increase to its landline charges and call costs from December 2011.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Pitching in to stop campers on agricultural land

A landowner is renting out his agricultural land to caravan campers for rallies. The council says it has no powers to stop caravan owners using this land if they have permission from the owner. Can the villagers do anything to stop this?

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_live_work_home_revolution_18772.jpg

The live-work home revolution

With 40 per cent of businesses now operating from home, architects and planners are creating cutting-edge designs for the new live-work community.

Published September 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/open_house_2011_18763.jpg

London's Open House festival

More than 700 buildings, talks, walks and even boat tours will be happening across London during this year's much-loved architectural festival.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Tenancy agreements key to auction bid

I am thinking about buying a row of three cottages at auction. One cottage is empty, one has been rented out in the last couple of months and the other has been occupied by someone for over 25 years. How should I proceed?

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/september_2011_events_18746.jpg

September events diary

During September, the annual London Design Festival takes over the capital, with more than 250 events showcasing the latest in cutting edge design.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Group buying is not always the real deal

GROUPON, Wahanda, Crowdity, Keynoir, Living Social and other group-buying sites have had a speedy path to popularity. But the hype doesn't always match the reality. Our money expert checks out the deals.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/turn_up_the_heat_in_leukerbad_18712.jpg

Turn up the heat in Leukerbad

Gym, swim and ski in this Swiss spa town with new homes and private thermal pools. Leukerbad pulls in the tourists all year round.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_university_hotspots_18670.jpg

New homes in university hotspots

University towns are the new hotspots with prices rising 70 per cent in a decade. Buy now and the rent will pay your mortgage.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_power_of_making_18664.jpg

The Power of Making

The Power of Making, new Crafts Council/V&A show, shows that by using old and new technologies there is very little that humans cannot make.

Published September 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The attic will seal the deal

We have seen a top-floor flat we want to buy, but only if the roof space is included or we can buy it at some stage. How can we get information about the attic before making an offer?

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Avoid expensive builders

More than two million households ended up in dispute with a builder or decorator in the past three years. Our money expert outlines the golden rules when hiring builders.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_for_first_time_buyers_18607.jpg

Affordable homes for first-time buyers

Previously, shared ownership was restricted to key workers but with a new scheme in place from September 2011, first-time buyers earning up to £60,000 will qualify.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/out_of_town_grand_new_homes_18590.jpg

Out of town: grand new homes

Britain's two-tier housing market means many Londoners can switch to a grander lifestyle out of town. Now is the time to buy a bargain in the suburbs where house prices are flat or falling.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Game, set and match at the planning office

I read about a celebrity getting consent for a tennis court in the garden of his Grade II-listed home recently and there were strict planting/gardening conditions and no lighting allowed. Is this usual?

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/enjoy_two_cultures_for_the_price_of_one_in_ticino_18525.jpg

Enjoy two cultures for the price of one in Ticino

Ticino is where Swiss lakes enjoy the Med's sunshine and buying homes is easy for non-residents.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/an_amazing_country_house_sale_cowdray_park_18522.jpg

An amazing country house sale at Cowdray Park

The Cowdray Park auction has been billed as the most exciting heirlooms sale for a decade. Find out what is on offer.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Give up the commute, live in a park

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/green_machines_make_it_easier_to_get_a_mortgage_18488.jpg

Green machines make it easier to get a mortgage

Award-winning architects are creating smart new affordable homes with the eco-features that impress lenders.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_in_national_parks_18467.jpg

New homes in national parks

A home in a national park comes with a hefty premium that many Londoners are happy to pay. Our property expert covers the main ground.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Take an energy test

We knew it was coming: the hikes in energy bills look set to add up to £200 to the average household’s annual bills, tipping more into fuel poverty this winter. But there are ways to limit the pain. Londoners can opt for a free, 90-minute money-saving energy efficiency test.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/how_to_make_your_commute_pay_for_itself_18421.jpg

How to make your commute pay for itself

Buyers can cut monthly bills with a double whammy: a good-value home and a low-cost commute.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/snap_up_a_bit_of_provence_in_the_luberon_valley_18404.jpg

Snap up a bit of Provence in the Luberon Valley

The Luberon Valley with its Roman towns and hilltop villages overlooking lavender fields, is Provence - without the high property prices.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/where_should_you_buy_to_let_time_to_get_clever_18393.jpg

Where should you buy to let?

Weigh up the odds when buying to let. Decide whether you are going for capital growth or rental yield. Homes & Property explain why you can't have both.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The stamp duty trap

My girlfriend and I have just broken up and have agreed that I will buy her half of our house. However, my solicitor says I will have to pay stamp duty on top of everything else, which really makes the deal unworkable. Is my solicitor right?

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/afforable_summer_property_bargains_18375.jpg

Affordable summer property bargains

The bonus of a staycation is the chance to pick up an affordable bargain during the 'quiet' summer months. Our property expert takes you through the best options.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_mews_homes_are_the_height_of_backstreet_chic_18351.jpg

New mews homes are the height of backstreet chic

The mews house is one of London's most cherished and historic property types and is currently enjoying a revival in hidden corners of central London.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/property_island_buying_in_mauritius_18290.jpg

Property island: buying in Mauritius

Look beyond the costly Caribbean to Mauritius for an exotic mix of cultures - and island homes from £300,000.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_for_singles_18263.jpg

New homes for single Londoners

London's fastest-growing population group is challenging the way new homes in the capital are designed. Going it alone has now become a lifestyle choice.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Noisy neighbours keep me up all night

It is virtually impossible to identify who is responsible for the awful noise next door. How do I go about lodging a complaint?

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/august_2011_events_18244.jpg

Five things to see in August

Take a day out to Hatfield House and see the work of top potters and a Henry Moore exhibition; or Chicheley Hall for a “floral festival”. While in town, an alternative village fete will grace the South Bank and Aram hosts its annual summer show.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Live life to the max in Istanbul

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Check out the ISA deals

If you've got spare savings now, don't wait for the end of the tax year to take advantage of the opportunity to squirrel away some cash, tax-free.

Published August 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/be_energy_efficient_if_you_want_to_get_a_home_loan_18175.jpg

Be energy efficient if you want to get a home loan

Lenders love eco-conscious borrowers who can keep their monthly outgoings low despite rocketing energy prices. Homes & Property take you through the key developments.

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get completion dates agreed in writing

We are selling our house and have an agreed completion date in writing. Now the buyers want to change it - are we legally required to?

Published August 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/energy_efficient_new_homes_july_2011_18156.jpg

Energy-efficient new homes

Soaring fuel prices are driving the latest energy-efficient new homes designs. A taste for style is adding the magic.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

The taxman taketh, now he giveth back

The words “tax” and “good news” don’t tend to mingle in the same sentence. But for millions of taxpayers this year, they will. That’s because HM Revenue and Customs has admitted that it made mistakes with its calculations, leaving up to 3.5 million Britons set to enjoy tax rebates. The average payment will be £340, but some could see thousands of pounds returned.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

But we thought we all shared the garden

What can you do when your landlord locks you out of the previously shared garden?

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_for_staycations_18048.jpg

New homes for staycations

London has more green space than most world cities and this summer more than 80 new outdoor projects, from grow-your-own allotments to exotic French riviera-themed landscaping, are being launched with new homes.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/share_to_buy_mortgages_18042.jpg

Share-to-buy: mortgages between family and friends

With 53,000 new homes due by 2015, the Government is now promoting "share-to-buy" mortgages which allow up to four people to purchase a home together.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Avoid a mobile holiday hangover

Despite moves to cut the cost of calls and texts abroad, access to voicemail and to the internet via smartphones from outside the UK still amount to big bills. Our money expert finds out how to keep the costs down.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/highbury_gardens_affordable_and_classic_17960.jpg

Highbury Gardens: affordable and classic

Highbury Gardens offers London's first affordable houses with classical architecture and a croquet lawn.

Published July 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londoners_find_classy_country_homes_17947.jpg

Londoners find classy country homes

Sporting estates, mansions and mills offer dramatic space for stunning, country-cool homes within commuting distance from the capital.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is my Georgian gem a rough diamond?

I have a flat in a Grade II-listed Georgian building. A surveyor friend recently spotted work done by previous owners of my flat and said he doubted any of it had been granted listed building consent. What should I do?

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

One way to make banks behave

One of the biggest shocks to emerge from the banking crisis were some of the strange and risky investments the banks were chucking savers’ money into. Now the industry is starting to listen to calls for banks to become more transparent about their lending. But ethical banks point out they’ve been doing so for years.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/own_a_home_on_a_vineyard_17854.jpg

Own a home on a vineyard

Buy breathtaking property well away from the overcrowded Algarve in Portugal's Alentejo wine-making region.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_crossrail_17834.jpg

New homes: crossrail

It is now fashionable to live over the station. As of July 2011 Westminster council has given the green light for the first of eight fabulous central London new-homes locations.

Published July 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/post_olympics_affordable_neighbourhoods_17825.jpg

New 'sporty' neighbourhoods

Sporting arenas are spawning thousands of affordable homes in London, creating new neighbourhoods in Stratford, Walthamstow and Wembley.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

When can the rent increase?

I have tenants on an assured shorthold tenancy which was for a fixed term of a year. They have been with me for 18 months, so can I now increase the rent?

Published July 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/six_things_to_do_july_2011_17787.jpg

Six things to do in July

This month, the Southbank Centre hosts a Vintage Festival and marketplace, The E17 Designers Market returns to Leytonstone, and Art in Action showcases the work of hundreds of artists.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Dramatic drop in mortgage rates

Rates across the board are falling. The question that borrowers are grappling with is: To fix, or not to fix?

Published July 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/first_time_buyers_can_own_a_home_in_central_london_17723.jpg

Affordable homes in central London

First-time buyers can now apply for government help under a new deposit scheme to live in the city centre. This applies to all Londoners earning less than £60,000 — not just key public sector workers.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/britains_hot_new_designers_graduate_shows_17704.jpg

Britain's hot new designers

New graduates are putting their creations on show so now is the time to grab a bargain.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/londons_north_south_divide_new_homes_17700.jpg

London's north-south divide: new homes

New research shows that if you want to live in central London and enjoy lower prices, river views and good new transport links - go south.

Published July 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bow_is_washed_rinsed_and_looking_good_17690.jpg

Bow is washed, rinsed and looking good – and buyers are impressed

With 65 per cent of its new private flats snapped up in three weeks, buyers aren’t put off by one estate’s troubled past.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

My upstairs neighour exercises all night long

The tenant in the flat upstairs is a fitness fanatic and exercises into the early hours of the morning. As well as keeping me awake, cracks have appeared in the ceiling since she moved in. What I can do?

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Be a landlord for the Olympics

Homeowners could earn thousands by renting out their properties during the Games next summer. Our money expert discovers the pluses and pitfalls of Olympic lets.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_has_it_all_including_village_life_just_near_the_west_end_17602.jpg

London's village life in the city

The capital's core population has soared as young families and empty nesters stay to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

It's time to pop the pre-nup question

My parents paid the deposit on my flat to help me get on the property ladder. My girlfriend now lives with me and we plan to marry. My dad insists we get a pre-nup to keep the property separate but I think this is unnecessary as the property is in my name. Who is right?

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Lenders cut their mortgage rates

House-hunters haven’t had much good news in recent months, with fewer homes on the market and hurdles to getting a mortgage. But now there’s finally some good news. After banks raised fixed-rate mortgage deals expecting a base-rate hike, they are now dropping them.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/let_your_holiday_home_boost_your_income_17547.jpg

Let your holiday home boost your income

Tough times call for thrifty measures - and that applies to property abroad. With France proposing a new tax on second homes, renting out your property could be a smart financial move.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/buying_propety_on_sporting_estate_17500.jpg

Buying property on a sporting estate

Spain's Mediterranean climate and manicured golf courses provide some world-beating holiday home resorts.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/men_behaving_houseproudly_in_their_supersize_pads_17489.jpg

Super-size single pads

Singles are the fastest-growing population group and there's no shortage of studios and pieds-à-terre in London. Fabulous designer apartments with all the latest gizmos are the new must-have.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Should our landlord do the repairs?

We live in a top-floor flat that we've rented for a year. There's a bad leak through the sitting room ceiling and it has damaged the plaster. The letting agent says our landlord should do the repairs but the landlord says it is our job. Which one is right?

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/london_homes_show_for_first_time_buyers_17462.jpg

The first steps to finding your home

First Steps - a new initiative set up by London's 40-plus housing associations and backed by Mayor Boris Johnson - will make property searching much easier for first-time buyers.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/a_very_modern_breed_of_tenant_17432.jpg

A very modern breed of tenant

Population changes and financial pressures have created a new generation of renters looking for stylish homes that fit their busy lifestyles.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/europes_lakes_and_rivers_17398.jpg

Europe's lakes and rivers are property hotspots

Italy and France are property hotspots for dreamy lake and river views under £200,000.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_waterside_homes_in_london_17393.jpg

Affordable waterside homes in London

The City Road Basin development will breathe new life into an 'unloved' corner of the capital.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/200_good_reasons_to_live_by_the_sea_17379.jpg

200 good reasons to live by the sea

The choice is yours — the buzz of Brighton or a home beside a peaceful bay. Britain's glorious coastline has something to tempt every Londoner.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_riverside_homes_in_time_for_the_olympics_17363.jpg

London's new riverside homes

London's berth rate is rising as new promenades and piers, boatyards and designer homes with moorings are planned leading up to the 2012 Games.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Retrospective building consent

I am buying a Grade II-listed house. The present owner has knocked out an internal wall and put in horrible uPVC windows at the back. My solicitor says there was no 'listed building consent' and this is a big problem. Is it?

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Making a comeback: 95 per cent loans

New schemes have been launched by lenders to help first-time buyers raise a deposit. Our money expert points to the best mortgages for people wanting their first home.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/brand_new_rental_homes_17282.jpg

'Brand' new rental homes hold the key to city living

Britain is becoming a nation of renters, and the capital is ahead of the game with branded new apartments for sophisticated Londoners.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/silversmiths_17280.jpg

Understanding the making of beautiful things

A new exhibition challenges our perceptions of today's silversmiths, and looks at what lies behind the finished product, not in terms of how something is made, but how the designer or maker finds an idea.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How much will I be taxed?

I have just sold a property I bought only six months ago. I always intended to do it up and sell it for a profit. I know that capital gains tax is 28 per cent, but a friend says that I might have to pay 40 per tax. What is the correct rate?

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/taste_of_london_festival_2011_17268.jpg

Taste of London festival 2011

Learn skills and secrets from culinary greats at this year's Taste of London festival, returning for its eighth year to Regent's park.

Published June 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/euston_from_transport_to_residential_hub_17249.jpg

Euston is one to watch

This transport hub is fast shedding its negative image with glamorous retail and residential developments.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/june_2011_events_17214.jpg

Things to do in June

This month you can wander through London's usually secret green spaces, enjoy a summer open-day treat and get ticket offers on two art and antique fairs.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Reduce living costs and save

With no sign of inflation falling, our finance expert has put together a step-by-step guide to cutting bills and saving more.

Published June 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/midsummer_carnival_elizabeth_street_2011_17188.jpg

Midsummer Carnival in Elizabeth Street

Don't miss Belgravia's annual summer street party and shopping evening - with stylish homeware, live music and entertainment.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Is free energy from solar panels a good idea?

We have found a company to pay for the installation of solar panels in return for receiving the tariff payments, but we would still get free electricity. The company wants a lease to "rent our roof". Is this a good idea?

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/chelsea_new_homes_17169.jpg

Oh yah, one would love a Chelsea pad

Sparkling new developments are bringing a touch of va va voom to Chelsea.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Fixed-price energy deals

Today’s high energy bills are set to soar even higher this year. The top tip is to switch now to a fixed-price deal.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

High heels of the girl upstairs drive me crazy

I have recently bought a flat in a new block. I play music which I am sure is a bit noisy and I don’t mind hearing it from other flats. However the clip clop of heels from the flat above is proving too much. What can I do?

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/diary_of_a_first_time_buyer_20110518_17043.jpg

Diary of a first-time buyer

Despite a nail-biting race to buy their first home, this couple are still keen to become property developers.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/homes_along_the_central_line_17027.jpg

Homes along the central line

The Central line is London's longest Tube line - and the fastest (most of the time). New, good-value homes are on offer all the way, from Ruislip to Epping.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/clerkenwell_design_week_2011_17017.jpg

Clerkenwell Design Week 2011

Clerkenwell Design Week showcases the very latest in furniture, with more than 50 British designers showing off their latest design innovations.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Snap up a new inflation-beating government savings certificate

News of jammed phone lines amid soaring demand for the new inflation-beating government savings certificate might put you off applying. But, if you have savings that you can afford to lock away for five years, nothing should deter you.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_awards_2011_16969.jpg

The winners: new homes awards 2011

Find out more about this year’s winners of the London Evening Standard New Homes Awards - from first-time buyer flats to design-led factory lofts and homes for urban fashionistas.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/japan_and_the_urban_space_guide_17037.jpg

Japan and the urban space guide

At Home In Japan: Beyond The Minimal House offers a fascinating peek into contemporary Japanese life. The interiors of 10 houses form part of the exhibition, which is laid out in the style of a "typical" urban home.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_awards_2011_the_winners_16930.jpg

Our 2011 award winners

The London Evening Standard New Homes Awards celebrate the highest standards of skill, design and craftsmanship in today’s new homes. Find out which developers are at the top of their game.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/shoreditch_and_the_city_16922.jpg

Shoreditch and City living

A classy skyscraper with a touch of Armani on the borders of Brick Lane and Broadgate brings bankers and East End fashionistas together.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

It looks like we're all in this together

I want to put in an offer on a holiday home. However it looks as though some of the cottage overhangs the neighbouring houses and the study may have been built over the next door’s kitchen. Should I be put off by these things?

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will my sale be an uplifting experience?

I have inherited a house with a big garden that I want to sell but my estate agent says I need to include an "uplift or overage clause" in the contract as the buyer may be able to get planning permission to build on the garden space.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Rates crisis for credit card users

Since the City watchdog stopped banks profiting from customers’ debts at the start of the year, card providers have put up interest rates by about two per cent, to an average 19.1 per cent.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/live_parkside_for_the_perfect_summer_in_the_city_16858.jpg

Live parkside in the city

You can't beat a Royal Park as a prized property location. London has eight, covering 5,500 acres. H&P finds beautiful homes to rent and buy beside them.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bordeaux_buy_a_home_in_wine_country_16850.jpg

Bordeaux: homes in wine country

Bordeaux is home to some of the most iconic names in wine - and homes there can be pretty gorgeous too.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/boris_launches_bromley_south_central_16833.jpg

Boris gives Bromley a revamp

Mayor Boris Johnson, after pledging a better deal for London's "neglected suburbs", has launched a new scheme in Bromley with 173 new homes, hotel and nine-screen cinema.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/diary_of_a_first_time_buyer_16827.jpg

Diary of a first-time buyer

In a new series, we meet first-time buyers looking for that step on the property ladder. For Elinor Vos it's been a fruitless 18-month journey.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/firststeps_to_get_on_property_ladder_16819.jpg

FirstSteps to get on the ladder

Anyone searching for an affordable home in London will now find the process easier with a new website set up by London's 40 housing associations.

Published May 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/five_art_and_crafts_shows_may_2011_16801.jpg

May events diary

There are plenty of art shows and fairs across the capital this month for discerning shoppers looking for special accessories for the home and garden.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Are you eligible for PPI payback?

Three million Britons who may have been missold payment protection insurance could be due average of £1,500 refunds.

Published May 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/live_in_country_charm_with_an_easy_city_commute_16764.jpg

Live in country charm with an easy city commute

Once out of the city, every minute on the train knocks about £1,300 off the average house price. There are plenty of new homes for commuters who want a painless journey.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to get a council tax rebate

Londoners paying high council tax could be in for a refund after it was revealed that millions of homeowners have slashed their bills by challenging their “banding”.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/grand_designs_london_2011_at_excel_16685.jpg

Grand Designs London at Excel

Grand Designs with Kevin McCloud is one of Channel Four’s top TV programmes. Don't miss the seventh edition of its home show at London's Excel - it's bigger and better than ever before, and take advantage of our special ticket offer.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

When one and one make... erm, three

Why buying two properties together will cost you more in stamp duty.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/spring_house_hunt_16669.jpg

Join the spring house hunt

Wine cellars and free Mini Coopers are among the developer goodies tempting house hunters to the latest new homes launches.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Slash your mobile phone bills

Our money expert guides you through an easy way of comparing recent bills and working out which new contract would give you the best deal.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/kings_cross_new_district_16588.jpg

King's Cross: a new district by 2012

St Pancras and King's Cross already form Europe's largest transport hub. Now they are going places in more ways than one, with 2,000 new homes and an entire new district to be created by 2012.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Trouble at the bottom of the garden

We are in the middle of selling our house and the buyer's solicitor has noticed that part of our garden is not registered at the Land Registry like the rest of our property. What can we do, as the buyer is panicking?

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_deposit_scheme_for_first_time_buyers_16577.jpg

Deposit help for first-timers

A new "top-up" deposit scheme will help first-time buyers to get an interest-free government loan.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/st_pancras_beauty_is_reborn_16565.jpg

St Pancras: beauty is reborn

The epic and magnificent restoration of St Pancras - one of London's most risky and expensive renovation projects - is now complete, and is the culmination of a 20-year journey for the developer.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Plastic is back: credit card deals

A credit card battle is breaking out on the high street. Shoppers can take advantage of current deals to secure interest-free loans, but the really savvy can rake in attractive cashback and shopping vouchers.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/switzerlands_secluded_ski_resorts_16503.jpg

Switzerland's secluded ski resorts

The glorious isolation of the quiet ski resorts in central Switzerland are part of their appeal for British buyers.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/westminster_is_not_just_for_the_rich_and_infamous_16486.jpg

Westminster's not just for the rich and infamous

This big borough offers affordable homes to first-time buyers in some of its smartest new apartment schemes.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/luxurious_apartments_at_bentley_priory_16458.jpg

Luxurious apartments at Bentley Priory

Bentley Priory, which played such a key role in the Battle of Britain, is being turned into luxurious apartments.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_at_londons_royal_docks_16445.jpg

New homes at Royal Docks

The Royal Docks offers canals and quays with 12 miles of waterfront, between Canary Wharf and the Olympic Village at Stratford. At last the spotlight has been thrown on London's greatest untapped development opportunity.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

We've got that sinking feeling

We are buying a house but the sellers have noted that it has suffered from subsidence. We love the house but are concerned. Should we withdraw our offer?

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/five_things_to_see_in_april_16425.jpg

Five things to see in April

Gorgeous glass or magical mono? Both make this a memorable month.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Inflation-linked bonds are back

Savers sick of seeing the value of their nest eggs wiped out by inflation were given a boost by the return of a government-backed savings product in the Budget - but with a rush to buy them expected, savers must register for certificates now.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/regeneration_lea_valley_16375.jpg

The regeneration of Lea Valley

Views over waterways will attract young buyers to artists' studios in the Lea Valley.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/rotherhithe_affordable_homes_16367.jpg

Rotherhithe: close to the action

It can be done: a Zone 1 home near all the SE1 action, a short hop from Canary Wharf and the West End.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/spain_bargain_holiday_homes_16342.jpg

Spain's bargain holiday homes

Spain hopes to tempt Britons back into the market this summer with a million unsold homes in top locations going at bargain prices.

Published April 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/one_day_houses_will_clean_themselves_16329.jpg

One day, houses will clean themselves

Despite all the advances in domestic hygiene, dirt is a fact of life. A new exhibition looks at how dirt has affected — and continues to affect — our daily lives.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/multi_media_rooms_16310.jpg

New homes: multi-media rooms

Once a status symbol for the super-rich, multi-media rooms are entering the mainstream, giving them a starring role in new family homes.

Published April 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/tottenham_hale_new_village_and_affordable_homes_16298.jpg

Tottenham Hale's new village

As a new district is born in north London - first-time buyers can purchase an affordable home and move in this summer.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/islingtons_hip_new_homes_16293.jpg

Islington's hip new homes

With its private courtyards, roof gardens and pools, canalside flats and gourmet food shops, what's not to love about Islington.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Why in God’s name am I paying for this?

A buyer asks why local homeowners are liable for the upkeep of the chancel at the parish church.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

End of tax breaks for work on holiday lets

Holiday-let landlords in the UK and Europe should organise repairs now to take advantage of tax breaks that will disappear from April 5, 2011.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/six_billion_punds_adds_magic_to_the_medway_16240.jpg

£6 billion adds magic to the Medway

The five historic Medway towns clustered around the estuary of the River Medway, halfway along the north Kent coast, are a worthwhile hunting ground for first-time buyers

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/even_windsor_goes_mad_for_modern_16216.jpg

Even Windsor goes mad for modern

The royal town loves its futuristic flats below the castle and hugging the Thames.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_cult_of_beauty_16200.jpg

The cult of beauty

Daring paints, pomegranate wallpapers and spectacular Iznik tiles filled homes great and small. The V&A celebrates the Aesthetic Movement.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/oarsome_new_homes_line_the_route_of_the_boat_race_16193.jpg

Oar-some riverside homes

Riverside apartments have proved to be London's best investment. It's good news for homebuyers with hundreds of new waterside homes being built.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/eco_homes_abroad_carbon_neutral_in_paradise_16173.jpg

Carbon neutral holiday homes

With hoteliers and developers working harder than ever to provide luxury with a green conscience, there are plenty of ways to buy a home abroad without feeling so guilty about being an energy guzzler.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can we negotiate for a longer lease?

We have owned our maisonette for five years, with a lease of 75 years. For three years we have written letters to the landlord offering to pay him for a longer lease, but have had no response. Can we force him to extend it?

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Peer-to-peer banking

Peer-to-peer lending has never been more popular. Like speed-dating for finances, this form of banking brings savers and lenders together online, cutting out the big banks.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/bloomsbury_puts_on_its_new_face_16102.jpg

Bloomsbury's new face

Poised for a £1 billion makeover, Bloomsbury's fine architecture, central location and new homes are making it a hot property tip.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/life_of_furniture_from_a_to_zeev_16096.jpg

Life of furniture from A to Zeev

The gallery on the top floor of the four-storey Aram store on Drury Lane regularly mounts some of the most exciting design shows in the country.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/olympics_gold_rush_let_your_home_in_2012_16079.jpg

Olympics gold rush: let your home

As tickets for 2012 go on sale, a homeowner in East Dulwich wonders if letting her property to games visitors could win her a tidy profit.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

I’m afraid you’ll just have to cheque it out

Why solicitors limit the amount of cash they will accept from a client.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Mortgage fraud: why it never pays to lie

Our finance expert shows us why it never pays to lie on mortgage applications — and how to deal with over-enthusiastic brokers tempted to falsify details on your behalf.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_in_clapham_old_town_16016.jpg

First timers can buy in Clapham

Affordable homes designated for first-time buyers are now available in the heart of Clapham Old Town.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_homes_for_claphams_old_town_16006.jpg

New homes for Clapham

Clapham's Old Town is already a fast-improving patch - and now this neighbourhood is about to get 200 new homes and a fabulous new library as part of an exciting £80 million project.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Deal or no deal on savings?

A quick scan of the “best-buy” tables for savings accounts could make you feel it’s not worth bothering to find the best deal for your money. But banks are currently offering a range of cash-Isa deals to lure last-minute savers.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_homes_big_on_style_15933.jpg

Affordable homes big on style

The launch of Cavatina Point at Greenwich Creekside finally offers shared-ownership flats that are small on price but big on style. A quarter-share on a one-bedroom flat can be bought for just £52,000.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/central_hot_spots_for_first_time_buyers_15917.jpg

Hotspots for first timers

The dream of living a short walk from the capital's main business districts is now becoming a reality for many first-time buyers and city workers. The fringes of the West End, the City and Canary Wharf all have baskets of property to offer.

Published March 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/finding_the_best_mortgage_deals_15903.jpg

Finding the best mortgage deals

There are 1,550 first-time buyer mortgage products available. Buyers need to do their homework before applying for a mortgage - but the great offers are out there. Prepare yourself beforehand by following our check list.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_living_at_chelsea_creek_15894.jpg

Affordable living at Chelsea Creek

Just five minutes from the King's Road, first-time buyers can finally get a foot-hold on some prime real estate.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/more_stations_for_south_east_london_15876.jpg

More stations for SE London

By the end of 2012 a new line will plug Peckham, Camberwell and Dulwich into the Tube system for the first time and provide direct trains from Clapham to the City and Docklands. Now is the time to buy before the prices rise.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Find a safe house for your home's deeds

I have a boundary dispute with my neighbour. When I asked my building society for the pre-registration deeds they said they didn’t have them due to "dematerialisation". What do they mean by that?

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Payment protection insurance

Payment Protection Insurance is offered to help you repay loans if you fall ill or lose your job, but many consumers have complained about the way it is sold. Our money expert shows you how to get this type of cover without wasting your money.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Should we talk rubbish or not?

We have a shared right of way to the rear of our property. This access was blocked when a conservatory was planned by the neighbours. Our solicitors wrote a letter solving the issue but our property is now for sale. Do we have to disclose this?

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/march_2011_events_diary_15776.jpg

March events diary

From new spring styles for the home to a sale of star artwork, our March diary is packed with events throughout the capital.

Published March 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/dutch_design_on_show_15722.jpg

Dutch design on show

Dutch interior design is being showcased throughout London this month, with selling exhibitions at Selfridges, Flow and Moooi.

Published February 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/thousands_of_new_homes_planned_for_vauxhall_15747.jpg

Vauxhall's new homes

Just a mile from Westminster and Sloane Square, Vauxhall has always been a "gateway" into central London. With 16,000 new homes being built, the area is swiftly becoming a place where people want to live.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/staycation_holidays_enjoy_the_dream_home_15742.jpg

Staycation holiday homes

Staycationing is a popular option for family holidays with a wide range of homes on offer across the UK, from fairytale castles, to eco cabins and modernist miracles. Staying put has never been so exotic.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Get your bank account into shape

How often do you check your direct debits and standing orders? Many bank customers end up paying for gym membership, email accounts or web subscriptions for years after they have finished using them but failed to cancel.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/austria_half_price_snow_15656.jpg

Austria: half-price snow

Alpine charm at half the price of France is on offer for British second-home buyers at Austria’s ski resorts.

Published February 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/two_can_play_at_the_renting_game_15649.jpg

Two can play at the renting game

Let out your home and rent somewhere cheaper to cover the interest rate hikes, school fees or a move to the country.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/open_the_gate_to_londons_garden_squares_15682.jpg

Open the gate to London's garden squares

Garden squares are among London's treasures - roughly 600 are spread across the capital. With developers taking advantage of the aesthetic building template, the city's open areas have never looked so green.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Will I have to pay the new higher rate of stamp duty?

We have offered £1.2million on a property and our agents say we have to buy before April 6, 2011 otherwise we'll have to pay a higher tax rate. Is this true?

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How to lower your tax bill on buy-to-let property

Buy-to-let is still a popular investment route and, for many, good tax-planning can make it even more lucrative.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/ealing_changes_gear_15584.jpg

Ealing changes gear

A new town centre with smart apartment living is planned for the west London suburb of Ealing to tempt urbanites to move to an area that will also get a boost from Crossrail.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/marylebone_and_fitzrovia_15578.jpg

Marylebone and Fitzrovia

Harley Street is having a residential revival while Marylebone and Fitzrovia are a picture of health as homebuyers move in.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/cambridge_glass_fair_2011_15568.jpg

Dazzling glassware fair

The Cambridge Glass Fair is renowned among trade and collectors but is still relatively unknown to the general public. Which is a shame, because prices go from £5 and some of the stock is enchanting.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Can I put an offer on a property without having the exact amount?

I am waiting for some inheritance money to come through and have found my dream property in the meantime. There is pressure to exchange the contracts now but without my inheritance money, I can only pay a five per cent deposit. What can I do?

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Dear bank: you’re fired!

Almost half of all banking customers would switch providers for better client service. The only problem is… they don’t know where to find it.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/go_south_east_young_buyers_15504.jpg

Go south-east young buyers

The good news for first-time buyers is that half the new homes being built in London this year will be affordable. A new exhibition with a focus on SE postcodes - among the cheapest in the capital - offers some exciting choices for first-time buyers.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Selling a property with noisy neighbours

We are selling our property and are worried that our loud neighbours will affect any future sale. Are we required by law to disclose this information to prospective buyers?

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Banks do us a favour? Loans get cheaper

When banks start being nice to borrowers, it is usually time to get suspicious. But if you want to borrow cash to buy that must-have item of homeware from the sales, it seems that interest rates for personal loans are now at their lowest since 2008.

Published February 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/february_2011_events_diary_15446.jpg

February events diary

From Chinatown to craft workshops and Michelin men, February events in London are packed with variety to while away the last weeks of winter.

Published February 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_future_is_green_new_build_homes_15425.jpg

The future is green: new-build homes

All new homes must be carbon neutral by 2016. Buy a low-cost home high on design and save thousands of pounds a year as well as cutting damaging carbon emissions.

Published January 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/affordable_eco_homes_designed_to_save_money_15409.jpg

Designed to save money

Going green may be a lifestyle choice for a whole new generation, but for budget-driven first-time buyers there is also a financial imperative: an energy-efficient home is significantly cheaper to live in.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Tips for first-time tenants

I have just left college and want to rent my first flat. I have heard lots of horror stories about renting, so can you tell me what the most important things are for me to consider when I rent?

Published January 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/reduce_your_energy_use_30_ways_15399.jpg

Reduce your energy use at home

The average London household spends about £1,200 a year on fuel and could save about £250 of that by making home and habits more energy-efficient.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Save energy and cash

Prince Charles, Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert Redford have all done it, but turning a home’s energy supply green isn’t just for the rich. As fuel prices rocket, everyone can benefit from living a more eco-friendly life and our money expert, knows exactly where you should start…

Published January 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/the_new_stars_of_covent_garden_15333.jpg

The new stars of Covent Garden

New homes are making a rare appearance in the popular West End hub of Covent Garden. Now is the time to see what's on show.

Published January 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/use_rent_as_deposit_to_buy_15301.jpg

Use your rent as a deposit

It is cheaper to buy than to rent. A new scheme is giving London's tenants a buying opportunity.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How can I make sure I'm paying the right VAT?

I began the process of buying a leasehold apartment in August last year. Completion is planned for later this month. In view of the recent VAT increase, what rate of VAT will be payable on my legal fees?

Published January 2011

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/90_per_cent_loans_are_back_15247.jpg

90 per cent loans are back

No-fees loans and 10 per cent deposits will give first-time buyers much-needed extra help this year.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/new_property_hotspots_2011_15240.jpg

London's new property hotspots in 2011

Buying a home this year will take research and determination. But ever-changing London creates new property hotspots all the time - the key to finding the right new area is research.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

My council is playing Mr Nasty

I am a leaseholder in a flat owned by our borough council which, in the 10 years I have lived here, hasn't undertaken any repairs at all. Is the council obliged to repair our building as laid out in the lease?

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Compare prices for the best-value deals

The rapid spread of price-comparison websites means most people now shop around for the best-value deals. Insurance and energy-providers are the most common searches, but you should not restrict your deal-hunting to just personal finance products. They exist for a huge range of goods and services, including books, music, theatre tickets, hotels and flights.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Trouble is on the cards

The Christmas hangover could be a painful and expensive one for the millions who paid for the festive period with card debt. But some banks are offering attractive deals for interest-free lending, so now is the time to take action.

Published January 2011

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/january_2011_events_diary_15112.jpg

January events diary

From antiques, craft and design, to boats and French cheese - beat the post-Christmas blues and January gloom by visiting some of the many events across the capital this month.

Published December 2010

http://asset1.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/best_property_buys_abroad_2011_15099.jpg

The best property buys abroad for 2011

We have found the best buys for 2011 in stylish European cities and warm coastal resorts.

Published December 2010

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How can I end my contract with a letting agent?

I started letting out my flat four years ago using an agent. I now no longer wish to continue the relationship. Am I obliged to renew the contract with them every year?

Published December 2010

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

Shop wisely at the sales

If you buy wisely, sales can be an excellent opportunity to save money. But retailers have become increasingly savvy at setting up honey-traps for your cash. Our money expert offers tips on how to shop wisely this festive season.

Published December 2010

http://asset2.homesandproperty.co.uk/handp/media/archive-no-image2_13498.jpg

How can I make my tenant pay up?

I own a flat in Chelsea and have been letting it out for quite a while now. Unfortunately, the present tenant has fallen four months in arrears with his rent. This hasn't happened before, so what exactly can I do about it?

Published December 2010

http

Back issues

E-newsletter

Thank you for signing up

Please try again

London

England

East of England

East Midlands

North East England

North West England

South East England

South West England

West Midlands Region

Yorkshire and the Humber

Scotland

Northern Ireland

Wales