renting

BRITAIN’S smallest castle, a charming 19th century Gothic turret in the heart of Hertfordshire, has gone up for sale.

The Gazebo Tower is a glorious Grade II listed landmark which dates back to 1833 and is packed with royal-looking features inside its 645sqft of living space.

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Described as a “local icon”, this three-storey tower in Ross-on-Wye looks out over the River Wye and the Hertfordshire countryside.

Inside, each of its circular rooms – roughly 16ft across – has been transformed into a kitchen, a bedroom and a living room.

It also comes with a picturesque roof-top terrace, described as offering 360-degree views of the Black Mountains of Southeast Wales, the spire of Saint Mary’s Church, Chase Wood and Ross-on-Wye’s vibrant architecture.

It’s currently available to buy for £330,000.

Estate agents Hamilton Stiller described it “an opportunity to own a landmark and one of Ross-on-Wye’s most striking features.”

One of the most whimsical touches to the property is how the double bed hides a bath underneath – making the most of the space.

The top floor also includes an en-suite wet room and a spiral staircase leading to a battery-operated roof hatch.

Athletes from the Ross Rowing Club can even often be seen sailing down the River Wye from the windows.

The quintessential market town of Ledbury is only 13 miles away, while trains to London Paddington take two hours.

This tower, once owned by Herefordshire Council, was sold in 2001 when its only floor was accessible by ladder.

Tony Billingham, who won the bid by post, lovingly restored the tower into a cozy, functional home and later opened it to visitors, donating proceeds to local charities.

This isn’t the only house that has caught widespread attention recently.

A seemingly ordinary home has gone up for sale at £400,000, but there’s one very unexpected twist that’s caught people’s attention.

Photos of the property reveal that one of its two bathrooms has been transformed into a home office – giving workers the chance to “do their business” without ever leaving the room.

A three-bedroom home in Walton, Chesterfield, has hit the market for £150,000, appearing perfectly normal from the street – but step inside, and things take a decidedly unexpected turn.

Baffled house hunters have branded the interior “bonkers”, with photos revealing a quirky layout and eccentric design choices that are anything but ordinary.

A charming seaside property with a fascinating backstory has caught the attention of locals and house hunters alike.

Listed for £235,000 in February, the home was purchased by a couple in July after making several visits over the summer.

Nicknamed “the Dolls House” by locals, the petite property is cleverly built in an alleyway between two neighbouring homes and offers breathtaking views of the coast.

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A FOUR-BEDROOM property in Dunfermline, is making the internet laugh for all the wrong reasons.

The Rightmove home has gone viral for photoshopping cars to a listing photo that look like they’ve been “stuck on with Pritt Stick.”

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What was meant to advertise a family home has instead become an internet meme.

On the market for £295,000 the house should be inviting and comforting but the listing makes it hard to see past the comedic value.

Instead, the photos look like a school art project.

The cars have been awkwardly stuck on the image to look as though they are “parked” on the driveway.

The photo, presumably there to show the spaciousness of the driveway, has done its job however.

The Emoov agent told Metro that the vendor had organised “quite a few viewings” off the back of the listing.

One social media user even noted: “Room for 4 or 5 cars but they only photoshopped 3 in!”

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The photographs of the interior are so saturated that the glow almost makes them look like stills from a video game.

Another person joked that the photos themselves “look like they were taken on a Game Boy,” in reference to the low-resolution, pixelated quality of some shots.

Reddit commenters called it “the worst Photoshop effort I’ve seen on Rightmove.”

Others compared the images to a “Sims build gone wrong.”

Each photograph showcases another bizarre detail, turning what should be a standard property listing into a hilarious set of meme-worthy pictures.

Rather than envisioning their future in living in the home, viewers are laughing at stuck on cars, gleaming interiors, and grainy, Game Boy–style images.

The Scottish property proves that in the age of social media, sloppy picture editing will get far more views than the actual listing.

A spokesperson for Emoov said: “As an online estate agent, our vendors manage their own property sale—conducting viewings and creating their listings.

“Unless vendors choose our professional photography package, the photos are taken (and, as in this case, edited) by the sellers themselves.

“The images in question were supplied entirely by the vendor and not produced by Emoov.

“Vendors are free to use whichever images they prefer, however creative they choose to be.

“It seems this vendor enjoyed a weekend of virtual arts and crafts and decided to put the results on display!”

Whether or not the comical advertising works and property eventually finds a buyer, this house will be remembered and laughed about for a long time.

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This comes following last month’s Open House Festival during which Rightmove opened the doors to some of London’s most interesting and aesthetic houses.

Each year, over 700 properties, buildings and other sites of architectural significance across London’s 33 boroughs open their doors with many said to be a “once in a lifetime visit”.

A NORMAL-looking terraced home has hit the market for £140,000 – but it hides a “satanic” secret.

The two-bedroom house went viral on TikTok after Ashleigh Anderson, 33, shared its unique decor with the world.

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The tattoo enthusiast bought the property in Barrhead, Scotland in 2022 and spent three years turning it into her dream home.

With its brick walls and manicured lawn, the house appears like a regular terraced home from the outside.

But inside lies a Goth’s paradise – fit with jet black cabinets and radiators, as well as signature Halloween-inspired artwork.

Ashleigh said her living room was inspired by a tattoo studio.

To achieve this particular look, she adorned the walls with a number of eclectic decorations.

The house features spooky sculptures and a large neon sign that covers part of the ink-coloured wall.

Eerie statues form the base of a glass-mounted coffee table, while dark sofa cushions are emblazoned with bold exaggerated eyes.

Meanwhile, two mannequin tattoo-covered legs poke out from either end of the sofa.

Continuing the gothic theme, skulls appear dotted around the room, alongside a zebra head taking pride of place by the steps.

Now on the market for £140,000, with Kelly Residential, the property has gained widespread acclaim for its “unexpected character”.

The listing reads: “This two-bedroom semi-detached property may appear understated from the outside, but step inside and you’ll discover a striking interior with a bold, gothic-inspired design.

“The front door opens into a spacious living room, where dark hardwood flooring, dramatic black walls, gothic artwork, and a distinctive tartan media wall create a stylish and memorable space.

“To the rear, the generous kitchen continues the contemporary feel with high-gloss black cabinets, integrated appliances, and ample worktop space, offering both flair and functionality.

“Upstairs, the main bedroom is large and finished with a neutral feature wall and built-in mirrored wardrobes.

“The second bedroom, currently arranged as a dressing room, offers ample space to serve as a comfortable double bedroom or versatile home office.

“Combining a bold interior aesthetic with practical modern living, this home is ideal for buyers seeking something truly distinctive.”

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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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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.

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.

Other properties

There’s also this very famous house from an iconic 90s kids TV show that’s just hit the market for £1.1 million.

The property is located next to an breathtaking ocean view and was regularly featured in the Australian comedy drama.

And this breathtaking beachfront house featured in a beloved BBC drama

The stunning waterfront property on the Scottish west coast has picture postcard views of Loch Long and the Firth of Clyde.

Millions of Brits also grew up watching this iconic house on another beloved kids TV show.

If you need a clue, the character of Miss Hoolie lived in the property in the BBC series.

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IN one of the most beautiful places in the country is a holiday cottage owned by the Fletchers.

The family, headed up by Emmerdale star Kelvin and his wife Liz Fletcher, renovated the home on Fletchers’ Family Farm, and you can stay there yourself.

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Called Stag Cottage, the house is found in the village of Wincle – on the site of the Fletcher farm, and you can book it on Sykes Holiday Cottages.

Inside, the cottage has been renovated into a cosy rental that sleeps up to six, there’s a sitting room with a woodburning log fire with squishy sofa and chairs.

The kitchen has a central island and is fully-equipped with everything visitors need to make home-cooked meals.

Upstairs are three bedrooms all with king-size beds with plush bedding, and one has an en-suite.

For any musical guests, there’s even a grand piano to tinker on; there’s also a snug and conservatory.

Outside is a garden with lawn, patio area, decking, furniture and hot tub.

The cottage is getting lots of bookings and has been getting five star reviews from visitors.

One visitor wrote: “The cottage was cosy, peaceful, and full of charm—just what our family needed to unwind from city life. The hosts were truly fantastic – so welcoming and easy to chat with, like catching up with old friends.”

Another added: “The cottage is more than just somewhere to stay, it’s the most relaxing place ever. The decor makes it so relaxing we had to force ourselves to go out. Kelvin, Liz and family are a pleasure to meet.”

Sun Travel found a seven night stay in May 2026 for £1546 which works out as £220.86 per person.

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However it can be more expensive with a one night stay in November 2025 being £1015 which works out at £169.16 per person.

Wincle is found just outside of Sutton near Macclesfield, where visitors can easily explore the Peak District – one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

The Peak District is well-known for being one of the prettiest places in the UK with huge hills, moors, valleys, and chocolate box villages.

For anyone planning a visit to the Peak District, writer Jennifer Sizeland, who is also a local, reveals the spots where you should go to, rather than the busy tourist places.

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For views, Jennifer said: “Head to Hen Cloud in Leek, Staffordshire, where you can see the rock formations of The Roaches — including the pretty Lud’s Church chasm and Doxey Pool, where a strange mermaid is said to live.

“You can go there for sunrise or sunset, and park for free in the bays on Roach Road. Or visit Tittesworth Reservoir, £5.50 for two to four hours of parking, and walk from there.

“This lake is a wonderful place for spotting birds and wildlife and it has a play park for children.”

Other suggestions include Coombes Valley, Padley Gorge, and ditch Matlock Bath for the quirky village of Bonsall.

For fans of Emmerdale, read more from one Sun Writer who toured the TV set in the Dales.

And the hotel named the best in the UK has Peak District views and guests say is ‘worth every penny’.

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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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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.

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.

Another quirky five-bed property has also gone on the market but has a surprise waiting in the basement.

And this unassuming semi-detached home comes complete with its own dance floor, bar and cinema.

Keen entertainers have the opportunity to snap up the five-bed “party house” on Bedford Avenue in Barnet, north London, for £1.25 million.

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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 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.

Our guide to paying less tax legally could help you avoid giving away more cash to the tax man than necessary.

Review your mortgage deal

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.

Think when investing

Gold prices surged to a record high of $3,546.99 per ounce (£2,643.82) on Wednesday, marking its seventh consecutive daily rise.

Investors are flocking to the precious metal as a safe haven amid inflation fears and fiscal uncertainty.

However, financial advisers suggest maintaining a balanced and diverse investment portfolio as a better strategy for managing market volatility.

A small allocation to gold (5-10%) can be useful, but it shouldn’t be the core of your investment plan, according to Charles Stanley.

Don’t forget a will

If you’re concerned about potential changes to inheritance tax, it’s essential to have a will in place.

Without a will, your estate will be subject to intestacy rules, which could result in a higher inheritance tax bill.

This is especially important for unmarried couples, as they won’t automatically inherit from each other, even if they’ve lived together for years.

Check how to make one in our guide.

Make your savings work harder

More than 31million bank customers have £186billion in savings accounts earning just 1.5% interest, according to banking app Spring.

These accounts generate £2.3billion a year in interest, but savers could earn over three times more by switching to accounts offering up to 5% interest, The Sun can reveal.

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.

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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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.

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.

1. Loft conversion – increase of 15%
2. Off-street parking – adds £50,000 to property price
3. New kitchen – increase of 15%
4. Garage conversion – increase of 15%
5. Cellar or basement conversion – increase of 10-15%
6. Open plan living space – increase of 3-5%
7. 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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A COUPLE are selling their £600k home in a raffle – with tickets costing just TWO pounds.

Aily Chalmers, 32, and her husband, Nathan, 35, say they were forced into the unusual decision because of the “disastrous” housing market.

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They initially put their four-bed detached home near Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire, on the market, but were instantly put off.

The couple were told by their estate agent that they would have to cut the price, with a potential 18-month wait to make a sale.

Instead, they are selling 450,000 raffle tickets, with the winner set to receive the house free from stamp duty and fees.

Speaking on their “mad” venture, website designer Aily said: “We never thought we’d be doing something like this.

“But we want to move closer to family and just thought, ‘go for it.’

“All you can do is try in these situations and the house is basically just going to be given away.

“All stamp duty and other fees will be paid, and the winner won’t have to pay anything other than £2 for the ticket.

“The market is awful at the moment, and we’re looking to move ASAP.

“It sounds mad, but it’s a win-win for us and someone who gets to live in a four-bed house for £2.”

The home has three bathrooms, a study, a snug and an open-plan dining room-lounge.

Aily and Nathan moved into the then-new build seven years ago.

But when the pair’s fourth child was born, they decided they wanted to move closer to family in Hampshire for support.

The mum-of-four continued: “Nathan and I have been discussing moving out since last year.

“We looked into selling the house the traditional way.

“Our house is perfect at the moment and our budget is the same.

“The only downside of being here is that we have to drive miles and miles if we want to see our family.

“It sounds mad, but we’re really hoping we can pull it off.

“We had lots of Zoom calls with the company hosting the raffle, to iron out the legalities of it all and now the competition is live.”

The pair have already sold one per cent of tickets in a matter of days, raising £6,000.

Both her and Nathan are hoping to raise an extra £20,000 in spending money to cover additional costs.

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It comes as Chancellor Rachel Reeves is said to be considering a new tax on the sale of houses over £500,000.

But critics say the measures could weaken the property market by discouraging homeowners from downsizing and selling.

The proposed legislation would be part of a wider overhaul to stamp duty and council tax.

Slamming the proposed changes, Aily accused the Government of “punishing people who own property”.

She added: “I feel like it’s the whole property market at the moment.

“The government putting in all this new legislation just to get more money off people and sort of punishing people who own property.

“We couldn’t afford to keep this home mortgage when our mortgage rate doubled a couple of years ago.

“It’s terrible. I don’t know how some people are surviving. A lot more people are wanting to just rent.”

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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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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.

“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 French, head of news at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, says this mistake is all too common.

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.

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.

CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves was warned she will hit tenants if the Treasury pursues plans to hike taxes on landlords.

She is considering putting National Insurance on rental income to fill a £50billion black hole at the autumn Budget.

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But housing experts blasted the move.

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.”

Earlier in the week, The Sun reported that firms were bracing themselves for a £2.5billion Labour tax double whammy.

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.

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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FEARS are growing that Rachel Reeves could slap a new tax on people’s homes to replace stamp duty and council tax.

The Chancellor is studying plans for a levy on houses worth over £500,000, according to The Guardian.

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The paper said the Treasury is looking at a “proportional property tax” which would be paid when owners sell their homes.

It claimed the shake-up could also pave the way for a new local levy to replace council tax, which is still based on 1990s property values.

But Treasury officials last night insisted that while tax reform is being explored, the details – including any threshold or rate – have not been decided.

A Treasury spokesperson said: “The best way to strengthen public finances is by growing the economy – which is our focus.

“Changes to tax and spend policy are not the only ways of doing this, as seen with our planning reforms, which are expected to grow the economy by £6.8bn and cut borrowing by £3.4bn.

“We are committed to keeping taxes for working people as low as possible, which is why at last Autumn’s Budget, we protected working people’s payslips and kept our promise not to raise the basic, higher or additional rates of Income Tax, employee National Insurance, or VAT.”

The Sun reported yesterday that homeowners would be forced to hand over £82,000 to the taxman thanks to Reeves’ inheritance tax raid.

Inheritance tax is charged on all assets above the £325,000 threshold, which is called the nil-rate band.

Anything above this threshold is charged at 40%, but your tax-free allowance rises by £175,000 if you leave your home to a direct descendant, such as a son, daughter or grandchild.

Currently, pension pots are exempt from inheritance tax – but this will all change from April 2027, when they will suddenly be subject to the 40% levy, following a tax grab announced in last year’s October Budget.

The change is expected to increase the number of estates paying death duties from 4% to 9.7%, dragging thousands of people into the tax net.

New analysis by Quilter shows that grieving families could face a nasty bill sting following the changes.

PLANS for a giant new village next to a UK holiday hotspot with 1200 homes have now been unveiled.

The proposals to launch Canford Garden Village in Dorset will be essential in tackling the ever-pressing housing crisis in the UK.

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The Canford scheme aims to create a new community focusing on family housing and social infrastructure.

The site will be located near Wimborne in Dorset, and it is thought to be prime real estate, according to W.H. White.

W.H White are behind the plans which were submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP).

The plans are to build 1200 new homes across the 230 hectares site, creating a characterful village which is architecturally striking which fits within the landscape.

In order to help ease the housing crisis currently taking hold of the UK, it has been reported that 40 per cent of the new buildings will be affordable homes.

What’s more, it will not be just a housing development, as the plans recognise the need for supporting infrastructure.

For example, there will be a community hub, flexible workspaces, community facilities, and a care home.

There will also be education and healthcare provision, as well as local infrastructure improvements to ease the pressure that would be placed on surrounding areas.

A total of 600 of the homes would be dedicated to first-time buyers, social rent and shared ownership schemes.

Scott Worsfold Associates were selected to create a complete design vision.

The plans for the site were was unanimously approved for a new sustainable community in March 2021 by the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

The land used to be a former quarry and golf course, and will now be made into a biodiverse community.

Current farmland is also earmarked to be turned into 90 hectares of publicly available green space with new habitats and allotments.

The proposal has garnered support from various stakeholders, including Dorset Chamber and Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, who emphasise the economic benefits and job creation potential of the development.

However there has been some backlash to the proposals.

It was reported that there were critics to the plan due to concerns regarding the potential impact on existing infrastructure, traffic congestion, and highway safety, particularly concerning access to the site from Blandford Road.

Some were also concerned about the proximity to existing facilities like Lockyer’s Middle School, which could cause longterm disruption. 

Ward councillor for Bearwood and Merley, Richard Burton, said: “We’ve had a lot of development in Bearwood and therefore I know my residents will be very worried about this because of the impact it could have.” 

However, he said the scheme is in the very early stages and this scoping application does not mean the local authority is supporting it. 

“From a political point of view, I do totally understand that we need more affordable housing in BCP, but just choosing the easiest places to build, which is currently Green Belt, isn’t the way forward and it’s not sustainable,” said Cllr Burton. 

W.H. White said there would be a commitment to low carbon construction with solar energy, ground source heating and opportunities for localised renewable energy. 

A spokesperson for W.H. White said: “The current shortfall in housing supply, combined with well-documented viability challenges of delivering homes on urban land, has prompted renewed interest in strategic and deliverable opportunities such as at Canford Village.”

BCP Council previously said it would soon initiate a new call for potential development sites in the conurbation as part of ongoing efforts to deliver new homes.

Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, previously said: “It is important that we balance our future development priorities whilst protecting the beautiful area that we live in and the precious natural environment we are so lucky to have.”