Archive for April, 2009

Are House Prices Finally Beginning to Stablise?

Posted in Mortgages & Property on Monday, April 27th, 2009 at 10:31 by Martyn Shaw.

A survey recently conducted by Hometrack indicates that house prices have posted the lowest decrease in over a year. At the same time, more buyers are registering with agents, a fact that is sure to delight anyone who wants to sell a home.

Household Pets Also Victims of the Recession

Posted in Credit Crunch, General on Monday, April 27th, 2009 at 10:30 by Martyn Shaw.

abandoned-dog

According to figures released by the RSPCA, an average of thirty household pets are abandoned each day. The fate of these animals varies, with the fortunate ones finding a new home or at least finding temporary sanctuary in a shelter.

Burglary Figures Increase in Recession

Posted in Credit Crunch, General on Friday, April 24th, 2009 at 10:19 by Jessica Haynes.

Recent reports from the Home Office indicate that the number of break-ins during the last quarter of 2008 was up by 4%. A similar increase was noted for the third quarter of last year. Robberies in public places were also up, with knifepoint thefts up by 5%.

Tax Rise on Tobacco and Alcohol

Posted in General, Money Saving, Tax on Friday, April 24th, 2009 at 10:14 by Martyn Shaw.

As Budget 2009 calls for higher taxes on both alcohol and tobacco, controversy rages on between leading lights in those two industries and the government. In the interim, you have a question to settle in your own mind. Is the advent of these tax increases reason enough to begin curtailing alcohol and tobacco usage around the house?

Recycle to Save Money

Posted in General, Money Saving on Friday, April 24th, 2009 at 10:10 by Martyn Shaw.

recycling

A recent report from consumer group Which?, claims that while not many people think of it, recycling can make a world of difference to household costs in more than one way.

Putting the New ISA Limit Rise to Work for You

Posted in General, Savings & Investments on Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 at 09:36 by Jessica Haynes.

Many citizens welcomed the 22 April announcement that the government is raising the limit on the amount of funds that can be contributed annually to an ISA. The measure promises to be especially attractive for those over the age of 50, as they will be able to take advantage of the rise for the current tax year. There is some anticipation that the action will encourage people to begin saving once more and thus helping to stabilise the banking industry.

Voucher Codes Are Not Just For Essentials

Posted in General, Money Saving on Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 at 09:33 by Jessica Haynes.

luxury-shopper

While many citizens have discovered the benefit of using voucher codes when and as they can, many overlook the fact that it is possible to also use the codes towards some luxury items as well.

Will Budget 2009 Make Life Better For You?

Posted in General, Mortgages & Property, Savings & Investments on Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 at 07:12 by Martyn Shaw.

Chancellor Alistair Darling’s public announcements regarding the provisions within Budget 2009 have some people cheering while others are less than happy with the turn of events. Who will the budget ultimately help and are you among that number?

Will the Homeowners Mortgage Support Scheme Help You?

Posted in General, Money Saving, Mortgages & Property on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 at 11:23 by Martyn Shaw.

Back in December 2008, the concept for the HMS or Homeowners Mortgage Support Scheme was announced. Recent announcements indicate the government is now ready to move forward with the initiative. But who will be eligible for assistance under the terms of the scheme?

Whitehall-Style Efficiency Measures May Work For You

Posted in Credit Crunch, Debt, General, Loans on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 at 11:20 by Jessica Haynes.

As many citizens know, Whitehall departments have been charged with the task of cutting back-end expenses and operating with a lean budget. The idea is to eliminate waste whenever possible while still allowing each department to function effectively.