Business rates are a tax charged on most commercial properties, such as shops, offices, pubs, and warehouses.Credit: Getty
At the time, the Government proposed raising business rates on the biggest retail properties with values over £500,000.
This would allow for a discount on rates for small retail and hospitality premises to be permanent.
The government has not yet set the rates, but changes are due to take effect in April 2026.
But the Co-op is now urging the Government to commit to the maximum levels of relief for smaller stores in the upcoming Autumn Budget on November 24.
Research conducted by the supermarket found one in eight small high street business owners will be at risk of shutting down if reforms are not delivered.
A further 10% of small said they would need to lay off staff.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op group chief executive, said: “The proposed system would improve the financial situation of 99% of retailers.
“How much they are protected from tax rises depends on decisions made in this Budget. To boost local economies, create jobs and provide community cohesion, we need inclusive growth.”
“That means supporting the businesses on the corners, in the precincts, on the parades and the high streets of every community.
” In order for them to not only survive, but to thrive, the government has to commit to the maximum levels of relief.”
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It comes as many larger retailers have voiced concerns over plans to increase business rates on larger stores, arguing the move could make them unprofitable or lead to price hikes.
In August, a letter signed by Morrisons, Aldi and JD Sports, warned that further tax rises on businesses could result in the Labour government breaking its manifesto pledge to provide “high living standards”.
It reads: “As retailers, we have done everything we can to shield our customers from the worst inflationary pressures but as they persist, it is becoming more and more challenging for us to absorb the cost pressures we face.”
Many businesses have already seen their labour costs rise thanks to the rate of employer national insurance being increased in last year’s Budget.
The Treasury expects the new rates system will only impact the top 1% of properties.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “We are creating a fairer business rates system to protect the high street, support investment, and level the playing field by introducing permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties from April that will be sustainably funded by a new, higher rate on less than 1% of the most valuable business properties.
“Unlike the current relief for these properties, there will be no cash cap on the new lower tax rates, and we have set out our long-term plans to address ‘cliff edges’ in the system to support small businesses to expand.”
RETAIL PAIN IN 2025
The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.
Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.
A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.
Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.
The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.
It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.
Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”
Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.
“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”
AN ICONIC Norwegian-style house featured in a TV show watched by millions – but do you recognise it?
Nestled in the picture postcard landscape of the Wye Valley in Hertfordshire, the wooden home appeared in a hit Netflix series.
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This iconic Norwegian house featured in a hit TV show on NetflixCredit: Knight Frank
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It can be found nestled on the slopes of the Wye Valley in HertfordshireCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
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The property featured in high school comedy drama Sex Education
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It features prominently throughout the popular series
The Edwardian building features in Netflix’s high school comedy drama, Sex Education, which first aired in 2019.
It features prominently throughout the series and fans may have recognised it as the home of high schooler Otis Milburn and his mum Jean, played by Gillian Anderson.
The Scandinavian inspired property has room for 10 people and is located near the Forest of Dean with cycle trails and a river nearby for canoeing and fishing.
Fans will recognise certain rooms in the house from many of the scenes between Otis and Jean.
Built in 1912, it was initially used as a fishing lodge and also featured in Extraordinary Escapes on Channel 4.
With five bedrooms over three floors, the property has breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
And the main bedroom can be found at the top of the house, spanning the entire floor.
As you approach the Norwegian-inspired home, you are immediately struck by it’s distinctive exterior.
It’s comprised of red wooden slats and white detailing amidst the expansive greenery on the slopes overlooking the River Wye.
It has a winding drive lined with trees leading up to a garage.
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Viewers had the chance to own it in 2023 where it hit the market for an eye-watering £1.5 million.
It was renovated in 2002 that saw the conservatory dining room extended and a bespoke painted wood kitchen installed alongside a contemporary bathroom and shower rooms.
It was done in such a way that it blends effortlessly into the rest of the house.
Move outside and you’ll notice it’s beautiful gardens where there are steps that lead straight down to the river.
It also has a decked balcony where a Swedish hot back and stone pizza oven can be used as you take in the spectacular views.
The property’s 4.5 acres of land includes two greenhouses, a stone and tile outbuilding and an orchard.
It’s currently a private residence but fans used to be able to rent the whole house for £75 per person a night – but you can still admire its beauty from afar.
THIS terraced house may look normal from the outside but one disgusting feature has left potential buyers flabbergasted.
Much of the three-bedroom property looks pleasant and welcoming enough but one feature may be too much to bear.
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This terraced house may look normal from the outside but a disgusting feature lies withinCredit: Jam Press/Moving You
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The open-plan utility room has a surprising additionCredit: Jam Press/Moving You
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A toilet has been plonked in the utility room next to typical kitchen appliancesCredit: Jam Press/Moving You
The family home in Brislington, Bristol, has a bewildering bathroom and kitchen setup that will leave prospective buyers thinking again.
The open-plan utility room may seem perfectly normal at first glance but look a little closer and you’ll find an unwelcome addition.
A surprise toilet can be found alongside the room’s typical kitchen appliances and items – and it’s the butt of jokes online.
The room is home to a washing machine, a fridge-freezer, a sink and even a coffee machine laid out on a cabinet.
But despite food and drink being stored there, there is nothing to separate the toilet from the rest of the room.
The room has been described as the “utility/downstairs WC”.
Listing images were shared on social media, where viewers were left “flabbergasted” by the arrangement, as reported by Luxury Property News.
One person commented: “I get that’s a utility room but… Imagine having your fridge in a windowless room where someone just had a rough time on the throne.
“Or your washing. Either settle for one toilet or put a small cubicle in.”
“This new trend of open plan s***ters has to stop,” another joked.
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Someone else wrote: “That’s got to be breaking some health and safety regulations surely?”
“Oh that’s grim, and right next to a kettle and stuff. Imagine how many airborne poop particles are in that fridge and cooking area,” commented another viewer.
Thankfully, the rest of the terraced home looks perfectly ordinary.
It has three bedrooms, a spacious lounge, a dining room, kitchen which opens out onto the back garden and a fully family bathroom upstairs.
And you’ll be pleased to know that there are no other surprise lavatories throughout.
It is currently on the market for £400,000 with Moving You.
It’s not the only property on the market that has some unwelcome additions either.
The Sun recently reported on a perfectly normal looking house that’s hit the market for £435,000 – but it’s hiding a sci-fi surprise inside.
The unique four-bedroom house is certainly bigger on the inside than it appears on the outside.
HOUSEHOLDS across the country are being warned to brace for a financial squeeze as the cost of government borrowing skyrockets to levels not seen since 1998.
This now directly threatens to push up mortgage rates and could usher in a new wave of tax hikes.
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The rise in government borrowing costs is putting serious pressure on household budgets in two key waysCredit: Getty
The pound has tumbled in response to the growing unease, highlighting investor concern over the UK’s economic stability.
At the heart of the issue are government bonds, known as “gilts,” which the government issues to borrow money.
These bonds offer investors a return, referred to as the “yield.”
In recent weeks, gilt yields have been rising rapidly, making it more expensive for the government to borrow.
This morning, yields soared further, with 30-year gilts reaching 5.72% – the highest level in nearly 30 years – while 10-year gilts climbed to 4.85%.
This spike signals that investors are nervous.
They are demanding a higher return to lend to the UK, worried about stubborn inflation and a gaping £51billion hole in the nation’s finances.
The rise in government borrowing costs is putting serious pressure on household budgets in two key ways
Firstly, it’s driving up mortgage rates.
The link between government gilt yields and mortgage rates is direct and unavoidable.
Lenders use “swap rates,” which closely track gilt yields, to set the prices of fixed-rate mortgage deals.
As these rates climb, fixed mortgages become more expensive.
Since August 1, two-year swaps have risen from 3.56% to 3.74%, while five-year swaps have gone from 3.63% to 3.83%.
Major lenders like Barclays have already started increasing rates, and even a small rise can add significantly to monthly payments on a typical £200,000 mortgage.
With swap rates continuing to rise in recent weeks, experts warn that mortgage rates are likely to increase further.
Separately, Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces a difficult challenge in her Autumn Budget, scheduled for November.
Higher borrowing costs are eating into public funds, and many economists believe tax increases will be necessary to fill the financial gap.
Although the government has promised not to raise income tax, national insurance, or VAT for “working people,” other tax measures are reportedly being considered.
One proposal is applying National Insurance to rental income, which critics fear could result in landlords passing on the cost to tenants through higher rents.
Another idea being debated is replacing stamp duty with an annual property tax, which could affect homeowners.
There are also rumours of reducing pension tax relief or cutting the tax-free lump sum, moves that could generate billions but might hurt savers.
Plus, there’s speculation about lowering the VAT threshold, which would bring more small businesses into the tax system.
This could increase their costs and potentially lead to higher prices for consumers.
Reeves is expected to make economic growth the centrepiece of her next Budget, warning that Britain’s economy is “stuck” and in need of bold solutions.
What can you do about it?
None of the proposed changes have been confirmed yet, and the government hasn’t ruled them out either.
However, any new measures won’t take effect until after the Budget in November.
It’s important not to make rash decisions based on speculation.
If changes are announced, you’ll have time to act and protect your finances before they come into effect.
For instance, if stamp duty is replaced by an annual property tax from a certain date, you could move house before the deadline to avoid the extra cost.
Similarly, if the government introduces capital gains tax on high-value properties, you might consider downsizing to a smaller home before the change is implemented.
Rob Morgan, chief analyst at Charles Stanley, said: “Taking pre-emptive action can outright backfire.
“Last year some people were concerned about restrictions around taking tax free cash from pension and took withdrawals they wouldn’t have otherwise made.
“This removed the money from a tax-efficient environment and potentially stored up tax issues that will come back to haunt them.
“Instead, it’s best to wait to see what happens, consider the consequences, and take advice as required before acting.”
Most of the proposed measures are likely to affect only the very wealthy, so you may not be impacted at all.
If you’re concerned, there are steps you can take to prepare and safeguard your finances.
Check your financial health
If you are worried about your finances then you should speak to a financial adviser.
They will be able to offer you advice about your situation and explain if any of the measures will affect you.
You can find one using unbiased.co.uk – but remember, you will pay a fee.
It’s good practice to sit down and take stock of your finances every six months and work out a plan.
Work out all your bills and outgoings and what income you have and factor in any changes, such as bills going up or new income streams.
Think about what you need to do to make the most of your money. For example, do you need to prioritise paying off debts or saving for a house deposit.
If your mortgage deal is coming to an end soon, act now.
Locking in a fixed rate could shield you from rising rates and market uncertainty.
Aaron Strutt, of mortgage broker Trinity Financial, said “For the moment there have not been significant price hikes but it’s probably worth locking in a mortgage rate if you are buying somewhere or due to remortgage, to try and keep away from any market turbulence.”
If you are coming to the end of a fixed deal, most lenders let you lock in a new rate up to six months beforehand, which can be worth doing.
If rates fall after you agree a new deal, some lenders will let you sign a new one at a lower rate.
How to get the best deal on your mortgage
IF you’re looking for a traditional type of mortgage, getting the best rates depends entirely on what’s available at any given time.
If you’re remortgaging and your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) has changed, you’ll get access to better rates than before.
Your LTV will go down if your outstanding mortgage is lower and/or your home’s value is higher.
A change to your credit score or a better salary could also help you access better rates.
And if you’re nearing the end of a fixed deal soon it’s worth looking for new deals now.
You can lock in current deals sometimes up to six months before your current deal ends.
Leaving a fixed deal early will usually come with an early exit fee, so you want to avoid this extra cost.
But depending on the cost and how much you could save by switching versus sticking, it could be worth paying to leave the deal – but compare the costs first.
You can also go to a mortgage broker who can compare a much larger range of deals for you.
Some will charge an extra fee but there are plenty who give advice for free and get paid only on commission from the lender.
You’ll also need to factor in fees for the mortgage, though some have no fees at all.
You can add the fee – sometimes more than £1,000 – to the cost of the mortgage, but be aware that means you’ll pay interest on it and so will cost more in the long term.
The average bank customer has around £10,000 in savings, according to Raisin.
If that £10,000 is kept in an easy access account earning 1.5% interest, it would generate just £150 in interest each year.
But switching to Cahoot’s 5% easy access account would boost that to £500, earning you an extra £350.
If your savings account pays less than the current inflation rate of 3.8%, it’s time to look for a better deal.
How can I find the best savings rates?
WITH your current savings rates in mind, don’t waste time looking at individual banking sites to compare rates – it’ll take you an eternity.
Research price comparison websites such as Compare the Market, Go.Compare and MoneySupermarket.
These will help you save you time and show you the best rates available.
They also let you tailor your searches to an account type that suits you.
As a benchmark, you’ll want to consider any account that currently pays more interest than the current level of inflation – 3.4%.
It’s always wise to have some money stashed inside an easy-access savings account to ensure you have quick access to cash to deal with any emergencies like a boiler repair, for example.
If you’re saving for a long-term goal, then consider locking some of your savings inside a fixed bond, as these usually come with the highest savings rates.
FAMILIES living in the shadow of two “humungous” warehouses say the buildings have destroyed their view and devalued their properties.
The colossal steel frames, which residents have likened to cruise ships, are part of a 350,000 sq ft industrial site that is dwarfing homes nearby.
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The huge warehouses have been erected directly behind homes in WiganCredit: SWNS
Residents in Tyldesley, Wigan, described being alarmed by the scale, and some are even considering moving.
Plans from developer PLP show the massive site will eventually be home to four vast warehouses, with the council agreeing to a maximum height of 18.3m (60ft) for two of those buildings.
Delivery giant Whistl has already snapped up one of the huge sheds, signing a 15-year deal on a 140,000 sq ft unit.
A council boss insisted landscaping would help soften the appearance, adding that the project followed proper planning processes.
But residents argued the final approved plans from were far bigger than had been originally designed.
They worried about the effect on property values, arguing there was limited consultation before building started.
John Peters, 71, a retired teacher, has lived on the estate since 1978. He said: “It’s a total shock when you walk out of the door.
“The enormity of the thing just strikes you. It shouldn’t be there.”
He said his dreams of a peaceful retirement were “shattered” by the arrival of the structure so close to his home.
A campaign group has been set up to rally neighbours and fight the development, with more than 200 people in attendance at a recent meeting.
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Mr Peters claimed the way residents were informed about the project left many feeling blindsided.
He said: “A letter was sent out to 90 residents, but I don’t know how they selected those residents because some of the people who back onto the site didn’t get anything.
“It was just completely random.”
Paula Boardman, 47, lives with her husband and two kids in a house that backs onto the imposing warehouse.
She said: “It’s quite upsetting, because we used to have such a lovely view.
“We knew this was going to be built, but we thought it was going to be a lot smaller.
“As soon as the framework went up, everyone realised the height of it – it’s humungous. I’m worried it’s going to take all our sunlight.
“It’s like a cruise ship at the back of our garden. Even if we wanted to move, I think the value of the house has gone down.”
She raised concerns about damage in her home that she fears could be related to the warehouse’s size and proximity of construction work.
She said: “I noticed a dip in the flooring back in February and a big crack in the wall.”
Steve Retford, 69, said he no longer sits in the garden because of the structure that stands just 30m away – describing the impact as “profound”.
The retired police officer said: “It’s just dreadful. We feel this sense of injustice.
“I don’t profess to be a planning expert, but when you look at the sheer enormity of this, it’s not right.
“It must have taken tens of thousands of pounds off the value of our houses. Every time I think about it, I feel sick.”
Care worker Danielle Edwards, 38, fears the warehouse could make it difficult to sell her home in the future.
Home upgrades that add the most value to a house
The best renovation to add value totally depends on your property, the local market and your potential buyers.
Zoopla shared a list of upgrades that will instantly add value to your home.
Loft conversion – increase of 15%
Off-street parking – adds £50,000 to property price
New kitchen – increase of 15%
Garage conversion – increase of 15%
Cellar or basement conversion – increase of 10-15%
Open plan living space – increase of 3-5%
New bathroom – increase of 3-5%
She said: “It’s awful. We bought this house because we’re a young family wanting to stay in the area.
“It would be very difficult to move. I can see it from my back garden. We thought they were going to be low-rise industrial units, but they’re not.”
Retired project manager Eric Earnshaw, 79, has lived in the Tyldesley area all his life but is now preparing to leave for the Lake District.
The keen dog walker said it’s because he’s had enough of constant building work.
He added: “There are walks that take me along fields in the area where there are plans for thousands of homes.
“All the green space around here is disappearing.”
Aidan Thatcher, director for place at Wigan Council, told The Sun: “This planning application went through our planning consultation and committee process.
“The final plans include landscaping which will help to screen and soften the appearance, and mitigate the impact on nearby properties.
“We will continue to monitor the site throughout construction, ensuring this development bringing new jobs and investment to the area is delivered properly.”
A spokesperson for PLP said they would not comment.
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Some of the residents say they worry their homes will be completely blocked from daylightCredit: SWNS
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The residents claim they knew about the structure but didn’t realise it would be so hugeCredit: SWNS
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One resident said it’s ruined his retirementCredit: SWNS
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Some have noticed damage to the house since the work beganCredit: SWNS
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Paula Boardman, 47, lives with her husband and two kids and this is her garden view nowCredit: SWNS
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Delivery giant Whistl has already snapped up one of the huge sheds, signing a 15-year dealCredit: SWNS
IF you’re wondering where your money’s going each month, it might not be big bills or bad luck to blame but small, repeated mistakes that add up fast.
From letting your savings sit in low-interest accounts, to underestimating the real cost of long mortgage terms, financial experts warn that common habits could be quietly emptying your bank accounts.
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Small, repeated mistakes could be the reason your bank balance is dwindlingCredit: getty
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Money experts revealed the biggest habits that are keeping people poorCredit: Getty
We asked money experts and behavioural scientists to reveal the biggest habits that are holding people back.
1. Not knowing what’s coming in and going out
It’s hard to feel in control of your money when you don’t know where it’s actually going.
Many people assume they have a rough idea, but the reality is that forgotten subscriptions, auto-renewing services and small daily purchases quickly add up.
Without visibility, your budget can slowly unravel, and by the time you realise, you’ve slipped into the red.
Vix Leyton, consumer expert at Thinkmoney, says the fix starts with routine: “Take time to know what your outgoings are and what is coming in.
“Some apps, like Thinkmoney, offer a snapshot of what you’re spending, and can even ringfence bill money for you so you don’t accidentally end up facing penalties and late fees.”
Even a five-minute weekly check-in can help avoid nasty surprises and highlight where cutbacks are needed.
2. Living without a savings buffer
It’s hard to save money – but not having a buffer can leave you exposed to high credit when you need cash quickly.
Whether it’s a broken boiler, a car that won’t start or a sudden cut in hours at work, not having a cushion means falling back on credit cards or payday loans just to stay afloat.
The result is a constant feeling of stress, and a budget that can be thrown off by the smallest shock.
Thomas Mathar, behavioural researcher and host of The Money:Mindshift Podcast, says a little slack goes a long way.
He said: “Even a modest buffer, like one month’s rent, can give you the breathing space to make better decisions and avoid high-cost debt.
“It’s not just about the numbers, it’s about having mental and financial slack when life throws you a curveball.”
3. Letting debt pile up month after month
More and more people have credit card debt, which means it can be easy to think it’s business as usual, especially when the minimum payments are low.
But ultimately, you’re paying interest to the bank instead of putting that money toward your own goals. Over time, that can add up to hundreds or even thousands of pounds in lost savings.
“Too many people accept credit card debt as a normal state of affairs. It’s not,” says Mathar.
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“Paying down high-interest debt quickly is one of the most powerful things you can do for your long-term well being. It’s buying yourself back freedom, and peace of mind.”
If you’re juggling multiple debts, focus on the most expensive ones first and look into 0% balance transfer options if your credit score allows.
4. Having psychological armour to support you
In the age of side hustles and flashy online success stories, it’s tempting to ditch steady work for riskier pursuits.
But without a reliable income it’s hard to build long-term security.
Inconsistent earnings often mean falling behind on bills, using credit to bridge the gap, and struggling to plan ahead.
Mathar warns that it’s important to have some sort of regular income, even if you’re pursuing other hustles on the side.
He says: “A steady income isn’t just about covering bills, it’s psychological armour.
“When you’re living month-to-month or under-earning compared to your potential, the stress compounds.
“You don’t need to chase big money, but you do need income that’s ‘good enough’ to support a resilient, happy life.”
5. Leaving savings in a dead-end account
You might feel good about putting money aside, but if it’s sitting in an easy-access account earning barely any interest, your savings are losing value in real terms.
With inflation still high, the cost of leaving cash in low-yield accounts is higher than many realise.
Adam said: “The likes of HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Santander, NatWest and Barclays all have easy access accounts paying around 1.1 to 1.2 per cent interest, far below the typical returns savers could expect, which is currently 3.51 per cent.”
The top performing options can pay even more, and shopping around and switching accounts only takes a few minutes online.
How to effectively manage your money
Kara Gammell, finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, gives tips on how to get a handle on your finances so you have more left for saving,
If you’re struggling to get a grip on your finances, the way to start is to do a proper inventory.
Try Emma, the money management app, which uses open banking to combine information from all your bank accounts, savings accounts and credit cards, plus investments. The app then highlights any wasteful subscriptions and costly debt and helps streamline your savings.
What’s more, it analyses your personal finances and recommends ways to conserve money so that you can get on track financially more easily than ever.
If you want to have a deep dive into your spending habits, go through your bank statement at the end of each month and give every purchase a rating of one, two or three.
Mark with a ‘one’ any purchases that didn’t make you feel good; give a ‘two’ rating to things that felt ‘sort of good but indifferent’; and mark with ‘three’ any purchases that you would make all over again in a heartbeat.
You’ll be surprised by what you learn.
Monitor your credit report
From overdrafts to loans, credit cards, mobile phones and mortgages, it can be hard to keep track of your finances, and it can be all too simple to find yourself in the dark about how much debt you have in total.
But this information forms your credit score, which is used by lenders to determine whether you’ll be offered competitive rates and offers for financial products, or even whether you will even be accepted when you make an application.
I’m automatically notified when my credit report is updated monthly, which can be a huge help in avoiding any financial problems from spiralling and means I always know what my overall financial situation is.
The tool also suggests ways to improve your credit score, so you’re more likely to be offered competitive interest rates, which helps you save money in the long run.
6. Not making the most of your ISA allowance
More savers than ever are being hit with tax bills they could have avoided.
Frozen tax thresholds mean that even modest savers can end up over the personal savings allowance, paying tax on any interest they earn.
That means, if you’re not using your ISA allowance, you’re potentially giving money away for free.
French explains: “Saving and investing are some of the best ways to build wealth over time.
“But it’s important that savers are aware of their tax liability on any profits they make – which can add up over the course of a few years.
Plenty of savers can avoid this tax bill by making use their yearly ISA allowances.
You can save or invest up to £20,000 a year tax-free, and every pound sheltered from tax is a pound that keeps working for you.
7. Only saving for retirement, and nothing else
Putting money into a pension is smart, but it shouldn’t be your only savings plan.
Many people now take career breaks, retrain, care for relatives or start businesses, and those transitions need funding too.
Mathar says ignoring this reality can leave people exposed.
“We don’t live three-stage lives anymore – education, work, retirement… A ‘transition fund’ – even just a few months’ salary – makes those big life pivots possible without financial panic.”
8. Being too harsh on yourself when things go wrong
Money mistakes happen. But too often, people fall into a cycle of guilt and avoidance, especially if they’re already struggling.
That mindset can stop you from facing your finances or reaching out for help, which only makes things worse in the long run.
Mathar believes the solution starts with self-empathy. “Here’s the truth: we’re all a bit messed up when it comes to money.
Our brains are wired for short-term wins, not long-term planning.
The goal isn’t to be perfect with money; it’s to build enough slack, mental and financial, so that one mistake or setback doesn’t knock you flat.”
9. Not overpaying your mortgage when you could
With mortgage rates still high and household budgets under pressure, many borrowers are choosing longer terms to keep monthly payments manageable.
But unless you’re also making overpayments, that strategy can come at a serious long-term cost.
French says small changes now can lead to huge savings later: “Overpaying by £200 per month on that same £250,000 40-year mortgage could shave almost 13 years off the mortgage term, saving them around £123,000 in interest payments.
“This is all without being tied to having to consistently make higher payments every single month – boosting the flexibility of their budget and their financial resilience.”
Most lenders allow up to 10 per cent overpayment each year.
Even £50 a month can help you become mortgage-free sooner and pay far less in interest overall.
Top tips for becoming an ISA millionaire
SAVING into a stocks and shares ISA can help you build wealth faster over the long term than cash savings. Dan Coatsworth, investment analyst at savings platform AJ Bell, gives his advice…
Start as early as you can
Time in the market is important, not just so you can ride the market ups and downs but also to let your wealth build up.
Not everyone can afford to invest the full £20,000 ISA allowance each year, particularly younger people who might be on a lower salary.
The trick is to start as early as possible with what you can afford to invest. Increase your contributions as you get older, such as when you get a pay rise.
Maximise your contributions
Try to invest as much as you can each month once you’re sure all the essentials are covered.
Create a budget so you can pay bills in full and clear any expensive debt, such as personal loans or credit cards.
The remaining money can be used to fund your lifestyle and to top up your ISA.
Be consistent with contributions
Feeding your account on a regular basis means you get into the habit of squirrelling money away for your future.
After a while you get accustomed to that money going into your ISA that you may not even think about alternative uses for it, such as going shopping or down the pub with your friends.
Keep an eye on costs and charges
Costs can add up over time and eat into your returns. Try not to fiddle too much with your portfolio as trading in and out of investments incurs transaction charges.
It is important to be patient with investing, especially for someone hoping to be an ISA millionaire as the journey to build up this wealth could last for decades.
Having a diversified portfolio is good practice for any investor and essentially means keeping different types of investments to help balance out the risk.
Then if something goes wrong with one of your investments, you’ve got the rest to hopefully act as a cushion to minimise the pain.
Diversification can involve investing in different industry sectors, geographies and asset types. For example, a diversified portfolio might have exposure to shares, funds and bonds from around the world.
Companies and funds often pay dividends every three to six months.
Think of these as rewards for taking the risk of owning their shares or fund units. While it can be tempting to pocket that income stream to spend on yourself, history suggests one of the biggest contributors to investment returns is reinvesting dividends back into your account to grow wealth faster.
TV property show presenter Kirstie Allsopp, said: “This is tenant bashing under the guise of landlord bashing. It’s like having the economy run by Baldrick.”
Ben Beadle, of the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “This will hit the very households the Government wants to protect.”
They would be clobbered twice — first by an inflation rate increase in business rates in April, then by a Rachel Reeves surcharge, experts said.
Business rates are the property tax that companies must pay just to occupy their shops, pubs, factories and offices.
The Tories warned thousands of struggling firms would be crippled.
Shadow Housing Secretary James Cleverly said: “Once again, Labour is hammering the high street. Raising business rates for thousands of hard-working small businesses across England was one of Labour’s first acts in office.
“And despite our opposition to it, and clear evidence of the damaging impact it will have, they have pressed ahead — consequences be damned.”
The first squeeze would come in April when bills rise automatically with inflation.
Raising taxes will kill off growth, Reeves warned as she pledges to rip up business red tape
The Bank of England expects the rate will hit four per cent next month.
Global tax firm Ryan said that would add £1.11billion to business rates across England.
The second blow would come when Chancellor Ms Reeves introduces a supplementary multiplier on larger premises next year.
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Reeves is considering putting National Insurance on rental incomeCredit: Getty
This town in East Ayrshire, Scotland, has been named one of the most affordable places to live in the UK, with locals praising its vibrant shopping scene and friendly atmosphere
This Scottish town is filled with independent boutiques and beautiful green spaces(Image: Getty Images)
An historic town in East Ayrshire has been crowned one of the UK’s most affordable places to live, with locals praising its bustling shopping scene and welcoming atmosphere. Property website Rightmove has ranked Kilmarnock as Scotland’s top spot for first-time buyers, offering average house prices significantly below the national average.
Rightmove reports that homes in Kilmarnock have sold for an average of £154,688 over the past year. Flats have been snapped up for an average of £75,868, while semi-detached properties have commanded £161,391 and terraced houses £115,793.
Kilmarnock offers low housing costs and a rich mix of culture(Image: Getty Images)
Home to over 47,000 people, Kilmarnock’s housing costs are more than five times lower than London, where the average flat will set you back a whopping £590,543. The town’s blend of cultural heritage, green spaces and retail options has made it a popular choice for homebuyers.
Kilmarnock is home to a wealth of cultural landmarks, including Scotland’s largest Burns Monument, the Dick Institute and the Palace Theatre. The town centre boasts a range of independent shops as well as popular high street brands, reports the Daily Record.
The tourism board Visit Scotland has described Bank Street as: “a charming cobbled street in the historic core, with the elegant John Finnie Street boasting one of the best examples of provincial Victorian architecture in Scotland.”
The board also spotlighted Dean Castle and Country Park as “a fantastic day out for all the family” and commended the Burns Monument Centre’s picturesque location in Kay Park.
For many locals, the town’s charm and easy access are its main attractions. Andrew Reith, 41, who runs Zenith Coins and has been working in Kilmarnock for five years, said: “The town has some nice parks, and there are a few spots for public entertainment. The shopping area is quite popular, and both tourists and locals enjoy wandering around it.
Kilmarnock is “experiencing a resurgence” according to some(Image: undefined undefined via Getty Images)
“What I feel is that the town could benefit from a couple of large organisations, such as factories, to create more job opportunities for people living in the area.” However, not everyone shares this positive view. One local told The Express: “Many people in Kilmarnock rely on Government benefits and lack ambition and zeal to work.
“Most people are looking to send their children to the schools in Troon which is around 15 to 20 minutes away from Kilmarnock and is home to some of the most affluent people in the town.” While some streets offer homes priced between £75,000 and £84,000, others feature properties worth £500,000.
Tracey Oakley, a property adviser with Donald Ross Residential, noted: “Kilmarnock is a huge area and it would not be right to say that the houses are cheap [everywhere] here. The town is not very far from Glasgow and has a lovely shopping centre. “The properties which are put on the market are being sold in just two to six weeks, showing its popularity among the buyers.”
East Ayrshire Council says the town’s energy is being enhanced by regeneration initiatives. David McDowall, head of economic growth, said: “We are happy to see Kilmarnock is featuring as one of the more economical places to live.
“Over the past 15 years, our Regeneration and Business Support teams have attracted investment to enable the redevelopment of the town centre…breathing new life into the town’s conservation area.”
He added that Kilmarnock has “weathered the storm of closures of the mass industries such as whisky bottling, shoe making, carpet making, textiles and heavy engineering” and is now “experiencing a resurgence” with new small and medium enterprises.
BRITS jetting off to Europe for their summer holidays could risk losing cash if they pick the wrong time to buy the currency.
When heading abroad, it is not uncommon for many holiday-goers to exchange cash into the currency of the country they are travelling to.
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Brits risk losing money when converting sterling into eurosCredit: Getty
But when you convert cash from one currency to another, you could end up getting more money in exchange or in some instances less.
Factors such as inflation and the economic stability of a country can impact how much a currency is worth.
Currently, the Great British Pound (GBP) is worth more than the Euro, a popular holiday destination for many Brits.
So for example, if you had £100 and exchanged it you would get €116 in return.
While UK holiday goers currently get more money back when they swap their cash for Euros, returns have been better in previous years.
Back in 2024, £1 was worth €1.18.
Tony Redondo, founder of Cosomos Currency Exchange told The Sun that factors such as “soft UK economic data” and “rising geo-political tensions” is pushing the Pound to Euro exchange rate lower.
This can lower the value of the Pound as investors seek to get higher returns elsewhere.
With this in mind, Tony said that holiday goers heading to Europe before the end of the month, should buy Euros “soon”.
Understanding GDP and Its Impact on the Economy
He said: “It might be best to buy soon to protect from any further possible downside.”
But the money expert said that those not travelling until the end of school holidays have no need to panic.
He said: “A calculated gamble would be to wait it out as the world moves at such a pace nowadays, that hopefully, the Pound has time to recover.
“After all, in 17 out of the last 20 years, the Pound has gone up in value against the Euro in either July or August. “
It is worth noting that exchange rates can go up and down, so it is worth checking online currency converters to see how much you can get.
MORE HOLIDAY MONEY HACKS
When heading abroad there are a few hacksto ensure you don’t end up losing money.
Customers should avoid exchanging money at the airport as they tend to have higher fees due as they cater to a captive market.
Kara Gammell, personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “If you have a holiday booked and want to make the most of current rates.
“Don’t wait to buy your travel money at the airport as you will pay a premium – and never pay for your currency with a credit card as paying on plastic means you’ll be charged a ‘cash advance fee’.
This fee is charged on ATM withdrawals but also on transactions such as online gambling and buying foreign currency.
You should also be aware that banks tend to charge customers a fee for using their debit or credit card abroad.
For example, NatWestcharges customers a 2.75% fee for spending your debit card abroad.
That would add a £1.16 charge to the cost of a jacket which cost £42.16.
But some banks don’t charge you for spending abroad.
For example, Monzo does not charge its customers foreign transaction fees nor does First Direct.
Are there other options to for spending abroad?
There are several specialist cards that can give you a great exchange rate.
These cards include travel credit cards and pre-paid cards which can let you pay abroad without fees or at a set exchange rate.
Senior Consumer Reporter Olivia Marshall explains all the options.
Travel credit cards: Travel credit cards allow you to spend money abroad without being hit by any fees or hidden charges.
But, they may still charge you for taking cash out.
We recommend the Halifax’s Clarity Card as it won’t charge you for using it abroad, nor are there any fees for withdrawing cash.
But you will be charged interest if you don’t repay your balance in full at a rate of 19.9 per cent.
And you will be charged interest on cash withdrawals until your balance is paid off too, at a rate of between 19.9 and 27.95 per cent depending on your credit score.
In other words, just because you are using plastic abroad doesn’t mean you don’t have to pay these credit cards off like you normally would.
Always pay off your balance before the end of the month with these cards to make sure that any money you saved isn’t wiped away by paying interest.
JUNE is a popular time for people to move home, hopeful of being settled before the new school term.
But making sure you get the most out of a move can be stressful.
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Liv Conlon gives her 10 tricks for making more out of your home
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Layering up in the bedroom is key
However, property expert Liv Conlon – who stages homes for a living – has shared her essential 10 tips for boosting value.
And some cost just pennies but can had hundreds to the asking price.
Liv, 26, is the CEO of multi-award-winning ThePropertyStagers.co.uk, which furnishes more than 400 homes a year, as well as a StagerBoss – a coaching business teaching other women how to do the same.
The Scots mum, who was brought up in Glasgow and now lives in Marbella with son Cash and mum Ali, says: “From posh pillows to hotel-style bedding, the right styling can make buyers fall in love and nudge them above the asking price.
“So before you stick up the For Sale sign, check out these smart, simple ways to get buyers battling to pay more than the asking price.”
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
A buyer decides in 10 seconds whether they are going to buy your home or not – so your entrance and hallway need to make a good first impression.
Make it warm and welcoming. Buy a new door mat that’s only used for viewings, with no dirty shoe marks, and place two identical plants at either side of the door – which is either clean, new or given a lick of paint. Opt for colours such as black or navyblue so it looks ‘classy’, rather than something more ‘out there’.
Clear away the clutter, and lose the smelly shoes and dumped coats.
LIVING ROOM VISION
The living room is the heart of the home – and buyers know it. It’s where they picture relaxing with a glass of wine, watching TV, or hosting friends.
Teachers told me I was runing my life leaving school at 16, now I run a seven-figure business
Get this room wrong and you risk turning off even the most interested buyer. Make it feel spacious but not sterile, styled but still homely.
Pull sofas away from the walls to create cosy conversation zones, and use a large rug to anchor the space – this helps define it and adds warmth.
Then ditch harsh overhead lights and go for soft lamps, layered lighting and oversized accessories to give a sense of luxury. Use neutral tones for your sofa and walls, then add depth with textured throws, scatter cushions and artwork.
GO BIG
Tiny trinkets and dinky lamps really don’t cut it when you’re trying to wow a buyer. One of the biggest styling mistakes sellers make is going too small with their accessories – it makes your home look underwhelming.
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Go big with accessories
If you want to create that lux, showhome feel, size matters. Think big and bold. Oversized lamps on side tables make a dramatic statement, especially when paired with plush sofas or layered cushions.
Chunky candlesticks, large framed art or statement vases add instant impact – and make the space feel styled, not stuffed.
DON’T LOO-SE OUT
Bathrooms are an important room but are often forgotten about when it comes to staging. The key to success with styling this room is to compliment not clutter.
You can do this by adding simple styling accessories, layers and textures. Consider pops of colour in your accessories, such as a soap dispenser or a toothbrush holder, which you can pick up for as little as £3 in places like Home Bargains. This draws the eye and helps your images jump off the page.
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Don’t forget to add a pop of colour in the bathroom
Add textures with towels and bath mats, but also through the type of glass or ceramic in your accessories. Small touches can have a big impact.
RIGHT RUG
Rugs are the unsung heroes of home staging – they define spaces, add texture and instantly warm up any room. In large, open-plan layouts, rugs create natural boundaries between living, dining and kitchen zones, making the space feel organised and inviting.
Don’t overlook the ‘forgotten’ spaces – utility rooms, hallways or entryways can be transformed with a well-chosen rug to feel cosy and purposeful.
Rugs can tie together the design elements, especially through colour and texture, in a space while providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
They can also significantly reduce noise levels by absorbing sound – a quieter home is always more appealing to buyers.
ALL WHITE
Five-star hotels use crisp, white bedding for a reason, as it exudes luxury and cleanliness, and it immediately puts a viewer at ease.
Patterned or busy linens can feel cluttered and overly personal, turning off potential buyers. Investing in high-quality, bright white sheets creates a serene, spa-like oasis that invites buyers to imagine themselves unwinding there.
The clean, neutral backdrop also lets you introduce pops of colour and texture with cushions and throws – easy updates that make the room feel stylish without overwhelming the senses.
GET DRESSED
Layering is the secret to making your home feel styled, warm and high-end – without overdoing it.
In the bedroom, start with white sheets, then double up on duvets: one laid flat, the second folded neatly at the end for a boutique hotel look. Use feather insert cushions -not flat polyfills – and build texture with velvet throws, faux fur or quilted finishes.
In the living room, mix cushion sizes and textures on your sofa – linen, boucle, chunky knit – to add depth. Coffee tables and sideboards should be styled too: think a stack of hardback books, a sculptural candle and one standout vase. Keep it intentional, not cluttered.
STAR OF THE SHOW
Not much beats getting ready at a dressing table. The feeling of space and time – rather than catching a quick glimpse in the closet mirror before rushing out the front door.
Create that same feeling in your bedroom by setting up a designated space in your bedroom to put on make-up and style your hair.
This can be a dual purpose area that could also double up as a work from home space too. To add real luxury, add a table standing mirror, and opt for a mirrored dressing table if your budget allows.
CLEAR OFF
Nothing puts buyers off faster than clutter. It makes rooms feel smaller and chaotic. When people view your home, they’re not just looking at the space – they’re imagining their life in it.
That’s hard to do if every surface is piled high with post, toys or toiletries. Start by stripping back.
Clear kitchen worktops, bedside tables and bathroom counters. Invest in clever storage: ottomans with lift-up lids, under-bed boxes and baskets for toys or blankets.
Hide away anything personal or bulky. Less stuff equals more space.
MIRROR IMAGE
Create symmetry in your rooms with matching bedside tables on either side of the bed. Not only does this add practicality and storage, but it instantly makes the room feel more polished.
Then, top each table with oversized, identical lamps – these create drama and a high-end vibe without breaking the bank.
Symmetry tricks the eye into seeing order and elegance, making your bedroom feel like a five-star retreat buyers won’t forget.
SANTANDER is slashing interest rates for two of its savings accounts from today – and customers should check if they’re affected.
The major bank is cutting savings rates from June 3 (today) on its Good for Life ISA and Rate for Life accounts.
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Santander is slashing interest rates for two of its savings accountsCredit: Getty
The interest rate on the Good for Life ISA account will drop from 4.5% to 4.25%, while the rate for the Rate for Life account will drop from 4.75% to 4.5%.
Those who have saved less than £1,000 in the Rate for Life account will still continue to earn the same rate (1%) on these balances.
It comes after the Bank of England (BoE) cut the base rate from 4.5% to 4.25% last month – the fourth cut since 2020.
The base rate is used by banks to determine the interest rates offered to customers on savings and borrowing costs.
Read more on bank accounts
While a rate cut is good news for borrowers, it’s usually bad news for savers, who will usually see savings rates fall when the base rate is cut.
This means they will earn less on their cash.
For example, the average easy access savings rate was 2.78% on May 8, when the base rate was cut.
Now it has dropped to 2.72%, according to comparison site Moneyfacts.
Santander is not the only bank cutting rates on savings accounts. HSBC has also cut rates on eight of its savings accounts today.
Nationwide Building Society cut savings rates on 63 of its accounts on Sunday, from easy-access ISAs to children’s accounts.
Santander’s £130 Million Recovery: What You Need to Know
NatWest cut savings rates on four of its accounts last Friday.
Meanwhile, rates on three of its savings accounts and a kids’ current account will be slashed from July 15.
How to get the best savings rate
As savings rates tumble, now is a good time to check what the interest rate is on your existing account.
Around £280billion is sitting in accounts paying zero interest, according to latest data from the BoE.
If you have an interest rate below the rate of inflation – which is currently 3.5% – then consider moving your money elsewhere, otherwise the spending power of your savings is eaten away.
The best easy access savings rate (based on a balance of £1,000) is offered by Atom Bank at 4.5 per cent.
Experts are predicting that more cuts to the base rate this year are likely, so it may be worth considering locking up your money in a fixed rate savings account if you can afford to do so.
The best one year fixed rate savings account is offered by Hampshire Trust Bank at 4.45%.
However, be aware that you usually can’t make withdrawals out of fixed term savings accounts, even in an emergency.
Anne Bowes from The Private Office said: “Review your savings accounts and switch if you are being paid an uncompetitive rate.
“Double check the terms and conditions of any account you are looking to open – or indeed close – as some accounts may have very short-term bonuses or restricted access.
“That means you might not earn as much interest as you hoped, or get hold of the money in as timely a manner as you were expecting.”
How to switch banks
For customers not happy with the latest shake-up, you may want to consider switching banks.
Switching bank accounts is a simple process and can usually be done through the Current Account Switch Service (CASS).
Dozens of high street banks and building societies are signed up – there’s a full list on CASS’ website.
Under the switching service, swapping banks should take seven working days.
You don’t have to remember to move direct debits across when moving, as this is done for you.
All you have to do is apply for the new account you want, and the new bank will tell your existing one you’re moving.
There are a few things you can do before switching though, including choosing your switch date and transferring any old bank statements to your new account.
You should get in touch with your existing bank for any old statements.
When switching current accounts, consider what other perks might come with joining a specific bank or building society.
Some banks offer 0% overdrafts up to a certain limit, and others might offer better rates on savings accounts.
And some banks offer free travel or mobile phone insurance with their current accounts – but these accounts might come with a monthly fee.
Where to find the best savings rates
Many savings accounts offer miserly rates meaning that money is generating little or no return.
However, there are ways to get your cash working hard. Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to make sure you money is getting the best interest rate.
Easy access savings accounts offer flexibility for customers, meaning they can dip in and out of cash when needed. However, the caveat is that rates can change at any time.
If you’re keeping your money in an easy access account, you’ll need to keep checking whether it’s the best paying account for your circumstances and move if not.
Check in at least once a month to see what is happening in the market.
Check what is offered by your bank – sometimes the best rates are for customers only.
But do search the wider market as often top savings accounts are offered by lesser known providers.
Comparison sites are a good place to check for the top rates. Try Moneyfactscompare.co.uk or Moneysupermarket.
You can search by different account type. You’ll usually get a better interest rate if you can lock your money away for a fixed amount of time, but it’s always a good idea to keep some money in an easy access account in case of emergencies.
Don’t overlook regular savings accounts often pay some of the best rates, but you’ll need to commit to monthly payments. This can be a great way to get into a savings habit while earning top rates at the same time.
AN iconic Grand Designs house dubbed “perfect” by fans has hit the market for £1.5million after 20 years of “painstaking” renovation.
Green Dragon Barn, in South Hams, Devon, was forged from three connected barns by couple Sue Charman and Martin Whitlock.
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Kevin McCloud originally visited the home in 2001Credit: Channel 4
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The Grand Designs home was dubbed “perfect”by fansCredit: Stags
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After two decades the renovation is completeCredit: Stags
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The property is listed on the market for £1.5millionCredit: Stags
The pair took on the mammoth renovation task in 2001, when the property also featured on Kevin McCloud’s show.
After 20 years the eco-project has been completed, but is now listed for sale.
The decision came after Sue sadly died in 2023, and Martin chose to embark on a new chapter elsewhere.
When Grand Designs host Kevin re-visited the five-bedroom home, after last seeing it in 2001, he said: “This is a home lovingly, painstakingly, time-consumingly transformed.
“Resplendent with 20 years of devoted care.”
Martin explained: “The revisit in 2021 was a delight – we were completely ready and the house was looking at its best.
“A complete absence of drama! Of course things were very different back in 2000. We were racing against the clock and the weather, and the programme makers made the most of that.”
The homeowner told how they chose the house in 2000 because they wanted to near the sea, and Totnes.
“The barn was a complete wreck – actually three barns built together over three centuries, and a bigger project than we were planning, but it allowed us to really go to town and create some stunning rooms,” he added.
The couple enlisted the help of architect Adrian Slocombe, of Earthway Design, to navigate how to build on the sloping landscape.
Despite dedicating two decades to the renovation, Martin said the couple relished in the adventure.
“Although it took 20 years, it wasn’t 20 years of work on the house,” he said.
“We moved into two rooms in 2001 and gradually expanded out from there as we found time to do the work in our busy lives.
“So every so often there would be new rooms or features to enjoy. A real adventure.”
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Natural light floods into the spacious kitchenCredit: Stags
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A vaulted room under the thatch roofCredit: Stags
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A full height entrance atriumCredit: Stags
The property boasts a large kitchen area which connects to an incredible 30-foot reception – kitted out with an oak floor and wood burning stove.
Potential buyers will also be able to enjoy an atrium and grand hall with dramatic pillar features.
As well as a utility room, there’s a stone larder and box room for more storage.
Upstairs, there’s four spacious bedrooms, two of which offer en-suit shower rooms, as well as a shared family bathroom.
And, one of Martin’s favourite areas is a huge vaulted room that lies beneath the thatch roof.
While creating the stunning renovation, the couple wanted to focus on keeping the project environmentally friendly.
Martin said: “Sue was passionate about environmental issues and we were determined to make the house as natural and sustainable as possible.
“It was a matter of principle but also very much in the spirit of the building.
“So the house is eco-conscious in its use of traditional, natural materials such as lime, stone, cob, slate and thatch, but is also highly insulated, has modern double glazing, a reed bed, a heat recovery system and a wood pellet boiler.”
Outside, the property boasts a private driveway which leads to a large parking and turning area in front of the house and garage.
Green Dragon Barn is now listed for sale by Stags at a guide price of £1,500,000.
Grand Designs’ most ‘bizarre’ house ever leaves fans raging
GRAND Designs’ most ‘bizarre’ house ever has left fans raging – as a pensioner builds a £600k replica of her own house.
In the latest episode of the property show 82-year-old Kathryn decided to build a 21st-century mirror image of her Edwardian home with a budget of £607,000 but she soon run into trouble.
The episode centred around Kathryn, who decided to move out of her home in North London following the death of her late husband.
Speaking to host Kevin McCloud, she said that she could no longer look after her home and that she couldn’t cope due to the stairs.
With the help of her son Gordon, Kathryn explained that she wanted to build a mirror image of her house right next door.
Fans of the show couldn’t understand the widow’s decision and slammed her decision as ridiculous.
“That was one ridiculous, overpriced, unnecessary, rip off builds I’ve seen in the history of this show.
“There’s skullduggery at play here, isn’t there Gordon?!” said one viewer.
Another added: “Omg 900k, would love to know the value now?
“Surely they could have updated the original, made the side a plot of land to sell to help with the costs #GrandDesigns.”
A third stated: “Nah that exterior is awful good lord. 900k??? Could have just fired a stair lift in her old place.”
While another fan added: “Oh dear, overpriced disaster imo. Should have just moved. All that money and already owned the land!”
During the show it was revealed that Kathryn had gone over budget by 100k due to a series of misfortunes out of her control.
Presenter Kevin described it as “dire” financially but worse was still to come.
As she was given a £19,000 bill for road cables to connect the house to electricity, and a dumbfounded Kevin was astonished.
The vast increase in costs caused fans to comment further as they couldn’t believe how much she had spent.
“Has she not heard of a stannah stair lift, what a waste of money” exclaimed a viewer.
“900k! And couldn’t even put a stairlift in! What a waste, should have saved the stress and bought a adapted bungalow.
“And it looks like a 1950s community centre” slated another.
One fan went as far as saying: “£900k for a three bed semi? Someone’s taking the p**s.”
The listing reads: “Green Dragon Barn enjoys a peaceful setting near the popular village of Blackawton, which offers a strong community spirit, a highly regarded primary school, a parish church, and a traditional village pub.
“The vibrant market town of Kingsbridge lies approximately 7 miles to the west and provides a wide range of shops, amenities, and a well-respected secondary school, serving nearby coastal villages such as Salcombe and Thurlestone.
“Totnes, around 7 miles to the north, offers an eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and galleries, along with a mainline railway station providing direct services to London in around three hours.
“To the south, the historic town of Dartmouth sits at the mouth of the beautiful River Dart and is renowned for its maritime heritage, excellent sailing facilities, and the prestigious Britannia Royal Naval College, also approximately 7 miles away.”
However, Martin said he “wouldn’t blame” new owners if they want to change the style to suit their personal preferences.
He also highlighted the potential their 1.3 acre garden and orchard have to offer.
Looking forward, Martin said: “I can’t imagine living in any house that I didn’t want to make changes to, so I’m open to a new project if I can find one.
“But whatever happens it will be a lot smaller – something on the scale of Green Dragon Barn is really a once-in-a-lifetime project.”
Elinor and Born Barikor, from Richmond in south west London, have created the “healthy house” for their three children.
The couple’s two sons, Avery and Pascal, both have potentially life-threatening dairy, wheat, egg, gluten, soya, oat, pulses, fruit, nut, dust, pollen and animal fur allergies.
Elinor and Born bought their property in 2018 with the hopes of forging a “safe haven” for the boys.
Leonie has revealed how she managed to get her home and why people think she’s rich because of itCredit: tiktok.com/@building_ribbons
But one woman managed to bag her dream home by making some sacrifices.
Leonie, who is known as ‘building_ribbons’ on TikTok, shared a video on her social media account explaining how she lived in a caravan for eight years to be able to afford her dream home.
She went on to explain that people now assume that she is rich because of it, but instead she just managed to save thousands on rent.
Speaking to her 122.7k TikTok followers, Leonie did a tour of her home which was in the countryside.
The kitchen was large and open plan with an island in the middle, and wooden beams in the ceiling giving a luxurious touch to it.
She also had large glass doors which looked out onto her garden, and allowed for plenty of sunlight to shine through.
Her video also showed her bathroom, which had a standalone large bath in it as well as her living space which had a fireplace lit to give a warm cosy touch to it.
Having so much garden space also allows her to keep animals on it including a goat, and two dogs which her son plays with.
Leonie explained that it was self-built in the English countryside and she was able to style it whilst also doing some bargain hunting.
Speaking to her followers, she adds that “you guys probably think I’m rich but in reality we spent eight years living in a caravan to achieve the dream of building our own home and it was so worth it.”
Living in a Static Caravan and getting paid for it!
Revealing that she is a “country girl at heart,” Leonie loves that she can spend time with her family, horses, animals, and “gorgeous son”.
Her video, which was shared in October, has gained 105.6k views and gained 67 comments.
One person who was in a similar situation, wrote: “I spent 10 years in our Mobil while we built our home. It was worth it, no mortgage.”
Whilst a second complimented her “beautiful home” saying that her situation was “a dream.”
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She now lives in her dream family homeCredit: tiktok.com/@building_ribbons
A third asked: “Your home is beautiful, can you please talk us through how you found the land and the process of building?
Leonie replied: “We already owned the land….. planning took us nearly 10 years…the build took around 18 months. Yea we lived on site.”
How much does it cost to live in a caravan?
LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:
Initial Costs
Caravan Purchase: £8,000 – £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition)
Caravan Insurance: £200 – £800 per year
Ongoing Monthly Costs
Pitch Fees: £150 – £600 (varies by location and facilities)
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 – £120
Maintenance and Repairs: £20 – £80
Internet and TV: £20 – £50
Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 – £40
Other Potential Costs
Waste Disposal Fees: £8 – £25
Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance
Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 – £1,600 (one-time)
Sample Monthly Budget
Pitch Fees: £400
Utilities: £80
Maintenance and Repairs: £40
Internet and TV: £40
Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25
Total: £585
Annual Estimated Cost
Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020
Insurance: £500
Maintenance and Repairs: £480
Total Annual Cost: £8,000
Tips to Save
Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons.
DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself.
Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs.
While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK.
