LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
mortgages
JUNE 2020
BECOME A VIRTUAL TOURIST TREK ALL OVER THE WORLD… WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR ARMCHAIR HOW TO DIY! OUR HELPFUL GUIDE TO SOME LARGER DIY JOBS
FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE START STRENGTHENING YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
RAINBOW THEMED BAKES ENCOURAGING FAMILIES TO SUPPORT THE NHS BY BAKING
THE CINEMA RETURNS! REVISED RELEASE DATES FOR AFTER LOCKDOWN
CONTENTS LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
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Become a virtual tourist Trek all over the world… without leaving your armchair
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PROPERTY
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News Our latest mortgage news. Plus meet the team!
FOOD
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Once upon a time Time never stands still, and with this collection of stunning clocks, neither will your style
Rainbow themed bakes Encouraging families to support the NHS by baking
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Help with decluttering Fantastic ideas to create space you didn’t think existed How to DIY! Time to try some DIY jobs that may be bigger than you would usually take on Football poised to return Top-flight football could make its return this month but only if stringent guidelines are met The return of the cinema! Many highly anticipated films have changed their release dates for after lockdown
HEALTH
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Our first line of defence Now’s the time to start strengthening your immune system
WELCOME TO THE JUNE ISSUE!
S
pring is flying by! We have been blessed with warm weather throughout May and are all carrying on as best as we can in these strange times. With the property market open again, if you’re thinking about moving but haven’t started the process, we have put safety guidelines in place to ensure your safety. And with our expert local knowledge, we have all the tools you need to get you moving – including a FREE personalised website for you to share on social media. This month’s issue provides you with plenty of handy hints and tips to get your property in order. Offering step-by-step guides on DIY jobs big and small, the art of decluttering and some of
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PROPERTY NEWS
the smartest-looking clocks on the market. Plus, if you are missing your days out, we have a guide to virtual attractions available online. And if you are missing football, we have all the details about ‘Project Restart.’ Looking to join in the support for key workers? We have some rainbow themed bakes. And to help you keep fit and healthy, we have some great tips to help boost your body’s immune system. Plus, we have an updated guide to when you will be able to catch some of the biggest blockbusters at the cinema. Till next time… Jonathan Wheatley Editor
AN IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER… A tidier home means a tidier life, and if the space you’re living in is neat and tidy, it will have a positive effect on your stress and anxiety levels.
PLAN YOUR ORGANISED ATTACK WELL
Go through everything – and I mean everything – and know confidently what you will and won’t be keeping. With a project like this, it’s good to be as organised as possible so to ensure a smooth process without needless stress or wasted time. Find some relatively out-of-the-way floor space and form three piles of all the stuff which is of issue in some way. One pile for all the stuff you want to keep, another for all the stuff you want to bin, and the other for things you want to donate or sell to others. Keeping a paper-based checklist can accompany this method nicely, making it easier to keep track of everything.
DON’T BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW
Remember, you don’t have to tackle it all in one day or even a week. Having a more casual approach can have its advantages. Doing just five or ten minutes each day of tidying up and decluttering will mean that your life and hobbies don’t have to stop during this process, but continue to work around the project, which can develop gradually. Working slow and steady like this could mean a lot less stress too. Day by day, as
THE ART OF
DECLUTTERING
There are some fantastic ways to create space you didn’t think existed – as well as gaining a tidier home
you adapt to your living space and its storage situation, you will develop a sense of what belongs and what doesn’t, so it might be better for you to judge things as you move through each day, rather than all at once.
Doing just five or ten minutes each day of tidying up and decluttering will mean that your life and hobbies don’t have to stop during this process
UNLEASH THE CHARITY IN YOU!
With most charity shops closed due to lockdown, it might be worth thinking about donating some of your items to friends and/or family. Knocking on their door and leaving the items on their doorstep whilst maintaining social distancing, for instance, would be fine. Or if the items are small enough you can drop them off in their post box. Since Royal Mail are still operating, posting items to people is still totally doable, so selling things on eBay could also be a great shout.
GET BRUTAL!
Enough charity! You might not have the time or patience to donate or sell
everything you don’t want, so it’s time to get tough with yourself. Sentimentality can cloud one’s vision of logic at times, and if there are certain things you know no one wants and will not sell for very much, just bin it!
dispose of these without having to do countless trips to the rubbish tip.
A constant question to ask is: ‘Do I need it?’ If the answer is ‘no’, then ask: ‘Why do I want to keep it?
However, some possessions hold special sentimental value, especially if you’ve had them for a long time and they represent much-cherished memories. Perhaps store these in your home somewhere sensible, but if your home starts getting clogged up with too much sentimentality, it’s time to get brutal. A constant question to ask is: ‘Do I need it?’ If the answer is ‘no’, then ask: ‘Why do I want to keep it?’ Force yourself to be logical and reassess your priorities like this and you’ll be creating new space in no time. If you have lots to get rid of, especially larger items, you can privately hire skips to
STORAGE UNITS Storage shelving units are a fantastic way of utilising the height in your home. Put in an appropriate place, a shelving unit can transform what was a mess, into a neat and orderly assortment of your muchcherished belongings. Storage chests can be equally useful; looking neat and presentable themselves, they can store a great many things to help your rooms maintain their refurbished look. Smaller storage boxes are another great option to keep things compact and neatly arranged and, when labelled, will help you keep things in well-organised categories.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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DIY
HOW TO
With many of us spending more time at home, why not try some DIY jobs that may be bigger than you would usually take on?
T
he great thing about doing it yourself, is the pride you get after finishing the job.
In this guide, we are going to show you how to do two of the largest DIY jobs: one inside and one outside. But remember, always consult a professional if the task at hand goes beyond your capabilities or involves electrics or gas.
TILING A KITCHEN OR BATHROOM
Tiling any room, whether it be a bathroom or kitchen, may seem like a daunting task. However, by following our easy to follow guide, you can have it done in no time…
MATERIALS NEEDED Wall tiles Filler l Tile adhesive l Tile spacers l Grout l Multi-purpose cloths l Tile trim l l
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PROPERTY NEWS
TOOLS
Ruler l Tape measure l Trowel l Tile cutter l Grout float l Spirit level l
Step 1 – Fill any holes in the wall with filler, smooth and leave to dry. Step 2 – Starting from the edge of the wall, and at the lowest row, use tile adhesive to start attaching tiles. Step 3 – Between each tile place a spacer to ensure the gaps between are equal. Step 4 – As you reach the end you may need to cut a tile. Use an electric tile cutter with plenty of water and make sure you measure carefully and cut slowly. Step 5 – Move onto the next row up, again using spacers, and slide any tile trim into place at the end. Make sure to follow any decorative design you are using. Step 6 – If you come to any electrical sockets, measure carefully and cut the tile to shape before applying the tile to the wall.
Step 7 – Leave tiles to dry in situ for 24 hours. Step 8 – Once dry, apply a liberal coating of grout across the tiles, before then using multi-purpose cloths with warm water to wipe away excess grout from the tiles. Step 9 – Thoroughly wash down and polish the tiles to remove any dust and remaining grout and leave to dry.
Always consult a professional if the task at hand goes beyond your capabilities
Remember, with any DIY job, try to get the best tools possible, including the best materials you can afford. Equally important, keep your tools clean after every use and remember to have fun!
LAYING A PATIO With the warmer weather here, why not add another area to your garden in the shape of a perfect patio you have laid yourself. Usually a job you would get a professional in for, laying a patio isn’t actually as difficult as you might expect.
MATERIALS
Cement Sand l Aggregate l Water l Patio slabs l Patio grout l l
TOOLS
Shovel l Cement mixer (you can hire these) l Trowel l Wacker plate l Bucket l Long spirit Level l Wooden dowling l Rubber mallet l Large grout float l Outdoor brush l
Step 5 – Connect your cement mixer safely to your electrics. Use 1 part of cement to 5 parts of sand and slowly add water as it mixes until you reach the desired consistency. Step 6 – Using a shovel, pour mortar mix directly onto the base where the first slab is going to go. Lay the slab and using a spirit level, check it is even. Add or remove aggregate and mortar as necessary until it is level. This is your keystone. Step 7 – Follow this process again, adding mortar and laying the next stone next to the keystone. Use the long spirit level to ensure the second slab is the same level as the keystone. If it is a very small amount out, use a rubber mallet to knock it into place. Step 8 – Complete laying patio slabs in rows, following the previous slab, which should be level with the keystone, using the long spirit level. Step 9 – Clean your tools to ensure the cement doesn’t dry on them. Step 10 – Leave to dry for 48-hours. Once dry, apply patio grout using the large grout float. Wipe over the edges using a cloth. Once dry, use an outdoor brush to remove any excess dust.
Step 1 – Mark out the patio area after doing measurements on a piece of paper. Dig down 150mm for the entire patio trying to create as flat an area as possible. Step 2 – Lay builders aggregate until it covers the entire base area of the patio. Step 3 – Use a Wacker Plate to level down and create a tight base level for laying the slabs. Step 4 – Lay a corner slab without any mortar to check the level of the patio as this will be your keystone. If the height is perfect move onto mixing your mortar.
The great thing about doing it yourself, is the pride you get after f inishing the job
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ONCE UPON A TIME t
GREY METAL FRAME ROUND MIRRORED WALL CLOCK WITH STUDDED DETAIL
Time never stands still, and with this collection of stunning clocks, neither will your style
This large wall clock has a mirrored glass inner to reflect the light, simple studded detailing around the outer edge add a decorative touch to this simple yet stunning clock, hang on a plain wall to get the effect. £119.95 www.woodpeckerinteriors.co.uk
VINTAGE EFFECT METAL CLOCK t This pretty vintage clock is the perfect decorative feature for any room. £18 www.next.co.uk
KARLSSON BOOK TABLETOP CLOCK
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Is it a book? Is it a clock? We are pretty certain it is a clock – but it does come well disguised. A fantastic finishing touch to an office or maybe the cookbook shelf in a kitchen. £36.50 www.aspenofhereford.com
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PROPERTY NEWS
t Is there Life on Mars? While away the hours on one of life’s great mysteries with this Mars Wall Clock. This stunning timepiece features a copper mirrored face, with Mars planet landscape detail.
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OVERSIZED MARS WALL CLOCK
GRANDMOTHER WALL CLOCK Large clock with drawer and shelf storage. £160 www.next.co.uk
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£129 www.dwell.co.uk
Help your Children tell the time with this Personalised ‘What time is it’ Wooden Clock. £34.99 www.notonthehighstreet.com
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PRICES CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT
PERSONALISED EDUCATIONAL LEARNING CLOCK
PRESENT TIME FLIP CLOCK BOXED This retro styled flip clock in a boxed gun metal is a timeless and elegant piece. Ideal for a desk, work space or any room in your home. £160 www.jarrold.co.uk
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RETURN OF
THE DUTIFUL GAME The English Premier League is poised to return this month, giving millions of fans the chance to get their first real football fix since The Beautiful Game was mothballed as the nation went into lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Although there have been TV re-runs of pivotal games – and even tournaments – at home and abroad during the weeks of isolation, the EPL has identified the 17th June for the return of the most-lucrative league on the planet. Possibly.
Since the decision to postpone the season, debate has raged over the viability of a return. Indeed, teams on the lower rungs of the football ladder have seen their leagues cancelled, campaigns expunged from the history books. Even League Two clubs decided to curtail their season while the European Championship was shunted back a year. Across Europe, governments of countries – such as France, Belgium and Holland – also decided the risks were too great and ended their seasons. However, Spain’s La Liga and Italy’s Serie A have been working on plans to return this summer, while the German Bundesliga resumed last month.
If we’re lucky. If it’s safe. Because, although they face a potential £762million rebate on their broadcast income and the threat of several of their member clubs plunging into severe financial difficulties, safety has been on the agenda at their many meetings to decide when – or if – the game can resume this summer.
But any resumption of EPL, as well as Championship or League One, will have to satisfy criteria laid down by Public Health England and sanctioned by the Government. With nine or 10 games still to play, the Premier League has ploughed ahead with
‘Project Restart’, insisting their priority is the well-being of players, coaches, managers, club staff and, most importantly, supporters and the wider community. There were plans for games to be at neutral venues, but only if safety protocol could be met. But such a scheme would rule out champions-elect Liverpool from staging any games. So, home and away games it is then. Or is it? And what about the FA Cup? Where does that fit in? Or for that matter the Champions and Europa Leagues? The only thing that is certain is that, when it does return, matches will be behind closed doors, largely because the Government is set firmly against any mass gatherings. Which leads to one small, but apparently not insignificant, conundrum. It is often said players stimulate the crowd to generate atmosphere to lift them, so what about crowd noise? Clearly, these professional athletes have never played Sunday League … Football. It’s never dull.
Top Flight football to return on the 17th June with 30 games on ‘Free-to-Air’ TV
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PROPERTY NEWS
Share your bakes using #BakeARainbow and tag the NHS workers you know to show your support for them!
RAINBOW ROCKY ROAD READY IN: 15 minutes MAKES: 16 pieces
INGREDIENTS 450 g 26% White Chocolate (3 bars) 40 g Unsalted butter (cut into small pieces) 150 g Shortbread Biscuits (5 oz), broken into pieces 100 g Dried Apricots (3 1/2 oz), chopped 100 g Glacé Cherries (3 1/2 oz), halved 100 g Dried Cranberries (3 1/2 oz) 100 g Pistachios (3 1/2 oz), shelled 75 g Pink Mini Marshmallows (3 oz) 10 ml Madagascan Vanilla Extract (2 tsps)
METHOD 1. Grease and line a 20cm (8 inch) square cake tin. Break the White Chocolate into pieces and place in a saucepan. Add the butter and put over a very low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted. Remove from the heat, transfer the melted mixture to a heatproof bowl and leave to cool for 10 minutes. 2. Stir in the biscuits, dried fruit, nuts, mini marshmallows and Vanilla Extract. Mix well to make sure all the pieces are coated in chocolate and spoon into the prepared tin; press the top down to pack the mixture into the tin. Cool and then chill for at least 2 hours until set. 3. To serve, stand at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then remove from the tin and peel away the lining paper. Using a large sharp knife, cut into 16 squares. Your rocky road squares are now ready to serve and enjoy! You can find this recipe and more at www.oetker.co.uk Images for illustrative purposes only
RAINBOW BAKES
RAINBOW SMARTIE CAKE READY IN: 40 minutes MAKES: 8 slices
INGREDIENTS 165g magarine or butter 165g caster sugar 3 medium eggs, beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 170g self-raising flour buttercream icing (either a 400g readybought tub or 600g icing sugar, beaten into 300g soft butter) 118g Smarties
METHOD 1. Pre-heat the oven the 180°C/160°C/gas mark 4. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin. 2. Place the margarine or butter and sugar into a large bowl and mix together until light and fluffy. 3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and beat together to form a smooth mixture. Sift the flour on top and fold into the mixture until just combined. 4. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top. Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until it looks lightly golden and a skewer, inserted into the centre of cake, comes out clean. Leave the cake to cool in the tin for 15 minutes, then remove, and place on a cooling rack to cool completely. 5. Cut the cake half to create the rainbow shape. Spread a layer of buttercream onto one half of the sponge and then sandwich together with the other half. 6. Stand the cake on a cake board or serving plate with round edge up, so the cake looks like a rainbow. Cover the top and sides of the rainbow in a thin layer of buttercream. 7. Stick the Smarties onto the front of the cake in a rainbow pattern. 8. (Optional) Place the remaining buttercream in a piping bag and cut off the end to create a 1cm hole. Pipe blobs of buttercream around the base of the rainbow to resemble clouds.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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OUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE State of mind is a powerful weapon against infection
To stand the best chance of beating harmful viruses, now’s the time to start strengthening your immune system
I
f the Coronavirus pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that we have to be prepared. And that means getting in the best shape possible to deal with whatever life decides to hurl in our direction. The best chance we have of combatting any bacterial or viral onslaught comes from deep within, from a complex defence mechanism known simply as the immune system. Every minute of our lives, we are bombarded by viruses, fungi and bacteria that can make us ill and, simplistically, it is the job of our internal network to sift through the trillions of micro-organisms in the body, working out which are good, which are harmful and which can be nurtured. When it’s doing its job properly the immune system – comprising white blood cells, antibodies, the spleen, bone marrow, thymus, and the complement and lymphatic systems – ignores the good bacteria and targets the bad, remembering them in case they return. However, fighting these pathogens is hard work, and we can make it easier – or more difficult if you are a heavy drinker, smoke, use drugs, or are obese – for our immune systems to perform as it should. But there is no quick, easy fix. Despite what you may have heard, putting sage between your toes every night doesn’t really work. Neither does rubbing garlic into your eyes. And neither does the notion of increasing our immunity. That would mean increasing the number of cells in our bodies – and that can do more harm than good. What we need to do is maintain the immune system’s strength to enhance its ability to stave off infection, and the easiest ways to do that are having balanced diets, exercising, sleeping well, and managing our mental health.
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PROPERTY NEWS
DIET Like any fighting force, the immune system army marches on its stomach and, like any worthwhile
Regular exercise is one of the pillars of modern living, so staying fit and active can lower your risk of falling ill and keep your immune system healthy
which is synthesised in the skin from UVB rays, is vital in helping to stave off illnesses such as respiratory infections. And, while you can get Vitamin D from some foods – such as oily fish (salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel), red meat, liver, egg yolks, fortified spreads and some breakfast cereals – the best way is to expose your skin to sunlight for between five and 15 minutes a day.
warrior, it needs good, regular nourishment. Scientists have long recognised that people who live in poverty are more malnourished and therefore more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Similarly, as we age our bodies need more help to remain robust. There is some evidence that deficiencies in zinc, iron, copper, folic acid and vitamins A, B6, C and E can alter immune responses, so a balanced diet including fresh fruit and vegetables will go a long way to keeping you healthy. Remember, experts recommend at least five different portions of fruit and veg a day – as well as plenty of fluids – to sustain ideal body weight. EXERCISE Regular exercise is one of the pillars of modern living, so staying fit and active can lower your risk of falling ill and keep your immune system healthy. Moderate aerobic activities – think a brisk walk, light aerobics, swimming and cycling or anything that gets you slightly breathless and your heart pumping harder – are the best choice, say experts. Because when the heart beats faster, circulation is increased, allowing the cells and substances to move freely through the body to do their jobs more efficiently. But, again, don’t overdo it. Over-vigorous training can dampen the immune system, inducing fatigue which is the body’s way of getting us to rest. And this is where a good night’s kip comes in: when you sleep, the levels of protective chemicals in your body increase, while inflammatory cells decline. In which case, the ideal solution is a nice, eventempo walk in the sunshine because Vitamin D,
MENTAL HEALTH State of mind is a powerful weapon against infection because stress and anxiety are debilitating and major factors in lowering the body’s immune response. It is often said that laughter is the best medicine – not only does not it lift the spirits and increase mental resilience but it gets the heart racing to nearly the same levels as mild exercise, helping you de-stress.
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BILL & TED FACE THE MUSIC – 21ST AUGUST
The world is, quite literally, at your fingertips as technology gives you the chance to trek all over the world… without leaving your armchair
T
he early-summer breeze is whispering through the tall, brooding trees fringing the vast expanse of the lake. The morning sun casts shadows over the lush, grassy bank and glistens on the gin-clear water as gentle ripples lap against the shore. Light, wispy clouds drift lazily across the powder-blue sky which is already taking on a cobalt hue over the distant hills.
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and attracting the attention of ravenous ducks, jostling for position.
Yes, it’s going to be another beautiful day on Lake Windermere.
Filing the scene under idyllic holiday vistas in your memory bank, you pause and breathe deeply, ready to relish the sweet tang of the open water and freshness of a sultry Cumbrian morning… but the only whiff you’re getting is from last night’s takeaway, a faint hint of furniture polish and the none-too favourable aromas from the leftovers in the cat’s dinner bowl.
The first of the day’s visitors have arrived, chattering excitedly as they unhook their orange dinghy from the back of their SUV, their breakfast feast already spread over the picnic tables
Because, contrary to what your brain might want you to believe, you’re at home, sitting in a comfy chair having logged on to a virtual tour of the Lake District on your laptop.
PROPERTY NEWS
Already one of the top tourist destinations in the country, the Lakes have become something of a hit in the cyber universe too, as webcams at the likes of Windermere, Coniston Water and Ullswater bring the beauty and atmosphere of the national park to a computer screen. lakedistrict.gov. uk/visiting/webcams-videos-andphotos/webcams Webcams add a different dimension to the virtual tours of museums, galleries and landmarks which have become increasingly popular during days of isolation and self-confinement throughout the Coronavirus lockdown. And not only are they a welcome break from the tedium of those box
sets you were recommended but only waded through because you couldn’t think of anything else to do, they are also educational. For instance, while you are mooching around Buckingham Palace, enjoying the 360-degree tours of the Throne Room, Grand Staircase and the White Drawing Room you can click on information points to learn about their history. royal.uk/virtual-toursbuckingham-palace
For sheer spectacle, step out on the Great Wall of China where, with just a series of clicks, you can walk the stretch from Jinshanling to Simatai
Similarly, Stonehenge, where their virtual feature offers panoramic views from the centre of the iconic stone circle and an interactive feature which allows you to click on specific points to learn more about the history. It’s like having a personal tour without the accompanying howl of traffic from the nearby A303. english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/stonehenge/ Technology also helps to bring out the best in Bath where their most visited attraction, the Roman Baths, offers a virtual walkthrough where you can explore the Great Bath, heated rooms and plunge pools as well as visiting some of their exhibitions. romanbaths. co.uk/walkthrough And you can avoid the crowds with a panoramic tour – at sunset – of the Giant’s Causeway, in County Antrim (nationaltrust.org.uk/giantscauseway/features/take-a-virtualtour-of-the-giants-causeway) as well as unlock the treasures at the National Gallery (nationalgallery.org. uk/visiting/virtual-tours) and the British Museum, where you can visit the rooms and wings, and zoom in
on most of the exhibits
(britishmuseum.withgoogle.com) But, in these digital times, the world is your oyster, and although foreign travel has been suspended, there is nothing to stop you taking in some of the world’s most culturally-important sites – all from your own front room. Always fancied trekking to Machu Picchu but can’t stomach the threat of altitude sickness as you climb through the Andes? No problem, you can take the virtual tour of the stunning Incan citadel with sweeping views and a detailed commentary. youvisit.com/ tour/machupicchu You may have to negotiate a few visitors, but Google Street View’s footage of the Taj Mahal takes you up close and personal with the beautiful domed monument to a love lost, while AirPano offers breath-taking aerial shots of the grounds and surrounding area. google.com/maps and airpano. com/360photo/Taj-Mahal-India/ For sheer spectacle, step out on the Great Wall of China where, with just a series of clicks, you can walk the stretch from Jinshanling to Simatai, taking in stunning views of the barren landscape. thechinaguide.com/ destination/great-wall-of-china And it may be one of the wonders of the ancient world, but the team at Petra in Jordan have embraced the digital age by offering a live feed from the jaw-dropping site – although, like the Lake District, streaming has been suspended while lockdowns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic are in place. petralivecam.com/ But, as far as immersive experiences go, Angkor Wat in Cambodia takes some beating. There are 3D simulations of temples, plus 360-degree videos of the landmarks which, if you have a VR headset, almost places you in the middle of this mind-blowing complex.
virtualangkor.com/360
Already one of the top tourist destinations in the country, the Lakes have become something of a hit in the cyber universe too
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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E H T
N R U
OF
T E R
Due to the Coronavirus lockdown, many highly anticipated films have changed their release dates‌
W
hile some studios have chosen to release their new films straight to Video on Demand (VOD) others have changed the release dates in the hopes that the cinemas will reopen in the Summer. When lockdown is over, cinemas will be counting on the movie-going public to restart the movie business. With that in mind, here are the biggest movies of the summer and their new release dates‌
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PROPERTY NEWS
E H T
A M
E N
I C
Disney continues to rollout live-action remakes of their classics
MULAN – 24TH JULY
A QUIET PLACE 2 – 4TH SEPTEMBER
THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE ON THE RUN – 7TH AUGUST
BLACK WIDOW – 6TH NOVEMBER
Disney continues to rollout live-action remakes of their classics. This time around is Mulan, the story of a young Chinese maiden who disguises herself as a male warrior to save her father. Acclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro, director of McFarland, USA and The Zookeeper’s Wife, is the second female director hired by Disney to direct a film with over a $100 million budget.
Husband and wife team John Krasinski and Emily Blunt return with the follow up to 2018’s hugely successful A Quiet Place. After the events of the first film, the Abbott family now face the terrors of the outside world and realise that the creatures that hunt by sound aren’t the only threats in the post-apocalyptic wasteland. Joined by the always-great Cillian Murphy and Djimon Hounsou, A Quiet Place 2 promises to be a bigger hit than the first film.
(SPOILER WARNING) Everyone’s favourite Sponge and his pals from Bikini Bottom return to the big screen in their first-ever all CGI For the first time since 2012, there is only one Marvel film motion picture. After SpongeBob’s beloved pet snail Gary arriving this year – Black Widow starring Scarlett Johansson. is Snail-napped, he and Patrick embark on an epic There aren’t many people left who haven’t seen Avengers adventure to the lost city of Atlantic City to bring him Endgame, and thus know that Black Widow met a tragic home and prove there is nothing stronger fate in that film, which confirms that this film, Black than the power of friendship. With Widow’s first and probably last solo outing is an all-star cast including Keanu set in the past, between Captain America Civil Reeves, Snoop Dogg and Clancy War and Avengers Infinity War to be exact and Daniel Craig’s last Brown, this is the perfect film for kids deals with the unanswered questions we all outing as 007 and adults alike. have about the character’s history.
WONDER WOMAN 1984 – 14TH AUGUST
promises to be one to remember
Gal Gadot is back bringing girl power to the big screen in this sequel to one of DC’s biggest movies. Chris Pine returns and Pedro Pascal from Game of Thrones and The Mandalorian and Kristen Wiig join the cast as Max Lord and Cheetah. The film’s 80s setting gives director Patty Jenkins the scope to introduce an incredible throwback soundtrack and a funky colourscheme throughout the film.
BILL & TED FACE THE MUSIC – 21ST AUGUST
The long-awaited return of Bill and Ted from the cult classic movies Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure and Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey are back after nearly 30 years with Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter resuming their roles. There is little detail about the exact plot, except we now know our heroes are middle-aged dads still trying to write the ultimate rock song. All that leaves us to say is, ‘Woah…’ (If you know you know!)
NO TIME TO DIE – 27TH NOVEMBER
Daniel Craig’s last outing as 007 promises to be one to remember. James Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help. Bond sets off on another treacherous mission after a mysterious villain. Craig is joined by Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris and Christoph Waltz once again, with Rami Malek added to the cast fresh from his turn as Freddie Mercury.
TOP GUN: MAVERICK – 23RD DECEMBER
It’s been 34-years since Tom Cruise made Aviator sunglasses sexy as Pete Mitchell in Top Gun. This year, joined by Val Kilmer as rival Iceman again, and Top Gun newbies, Jennifer Connelly, Ed Harris, Jon Hamm and Miles Teller, Maverick returns to the big screen. Dodging an advancement in his career that would ground him, Maverick is a courageous test pilot teaching a new generation which includes his dead best friend’s (Goose) son played by Miles Teller. Feel the need for speed this Xmas!
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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May/June 2020 issue
COVID-19 UPDATE
mortgages
The newsletter from Xact Mortgages Limited
We are now seeing (initially in England) the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions.
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Social distancing (and the wearing of masks and gloves) will still be a major consideration. Whether you’re returning to the workplace (if it’s safe and ok to do so), or are simply out enjoying greater freedom, and seeing a different family member or friend - from a distance!
Housing market re-opens! As part of this process, the Housing Secretary announced that (in England) estate agent’s offices can re-open; viewings are permitted; show homes can open; and removal firms, along with other essential parts of the sales and letting process, can also re-start. According to the Housing Secretary, more than 450,000 buyers and renters have been unable to progress their plans to move since March. However, activity in this sector can only occur if social distancing and safety rules are properly adhered to. And the government has already produced a document that provides guidance for surveyors, and others, on how to work safely in other people’s homes. Understandably, the marketplace will take time to be fully operational again, and some people may initially be wary of letting others into their homes (or viewing them),
Relax!
We’ll liaise however you want
plus others might need to reassess their finances. Conversely, though, after many weeks of lockdown, moving to a larger home may be very high on the agenda!
Mortgage Lending So, as we return to some semblance of normality, perhaps now is a good time to look at both your mortgage and protection requirements. If that’s the case, then restassured we continue to be available to discuss these issues with you. In terms of the mortgage deals on offer, if you’re just coming off the average 2-year fixed deal, for example, then two years ago the interest rate was 2.51%, now it’s 2.09%!* Also, early on in the crisis some higher Loanto-Value (LTV) mortgage deals were initially pulled by lenders. However, recent research Continued on the next page
You may have to pay an early repayment charge
The Furlo Scheme ugh been exte has n to run ded 31 Octob until - see page er 2020 3 for more...
(Source: Ch ancellor’s announce ment, 12 M ay 2020)
KEY NEWS... Over 1.8m Mortgage Payment Holidays have been taken up The first of the 3-month holidays will be coming to an end in June. However, there are proposals in place to look at extending the payment holiday period for a further 3 months for homeowners struggling to pay their mortgage. Lenders will also discuss if the homeowner is able to start making reduced payments. Others, who have not used the scheme, may be able to apply for a holiday up until 31 October. (Source: GOV.UK, 22 May 2020)
Around 8 million jobs have now been furloughed With £11.1bn being claimed so far through the Coronavirus Job Rentention Scheme. (Source: GOV.UK, 19 May 2020)
to your existing lender if you remortgage.
Xact Mortgages Limited
6 The Square, First Floor, Solihull B91 3RB Tel: 0121 712 6230 Email: sales@xactmortgages.co.uk
Web: www.xactmortgages.co.uk
■ Xact Mortgages Limited is an appointed representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network (PRIMIS), a trading name of First Complete Limited which
is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. PRIMIS is only responsible for the service and quality of advice provided to you in relation to mortgages, protection insurance and general insurance products. Any other product or service offered by Xact Mortgages Limited may not be the responsibility of PRIMIS and may also not be subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. ■ This firm usually charges a fee for mortgage advice. The amount of the fee will depend upon your circumstances and will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity. ■ The information is of a general nature, and every care is taken to ensure it’s accurate at the time of writing (May 2020). However, all information and figures are subject to change. You should seek professional advice tailored to your needs and circumstances before making any decisions.
■ Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Market developments
We’ll liaise however
you want Continued from the previous page
has shown that lenders are coming back to the market, with a return of a number of higher LTV deals, and a relaxation of some criteria.** (Sources: *Moneyfacts, 1 May 2020; **Mortgage Brain, 29 April 2020)
Your borrowing requirements When you consider that the average 2- and 5-year fixed rates are 2.09%, and 2.35%, respectively*, this means that there are many products at a rate less than that! So maybe now is the time to assess your Mortgage (or Product Transfer) plans to meet the following needs: n Raising additional funds. n Seeking funding for a property move, or wanting to buy your first home. n Looking for a new deal, as you’re coming to the end of your current one. n Keen to look at options, as you’re still on your lender’s more expensive Standard Variable Rate, at an average rate of 4.55%.*
Or simply wanting to identify a better mortgage deal than the one you have. And, with regard to Product Transfers, these are a like-for-like mortgage with the same lender. In which case, they tend to not require a new affordability assessment, meaning existing borrowers who have been furloughed may also be eligible (subject to certain criteria). As can those on a mortgage payment holiday. Ordinarily, the latter would not qualify, but given the current exceptional circumstances, lenders are waiving this rule. n
Remortgage elsewhere? However, as part of the conversation with us, we’ll also look at the broader picture. A more suitable route might be to end any payment holiday (if that’s in place), and be able to identify a more suitable deal with another lender. Whether or not you then remain with your current lender, it’s best to see what’s out there in the wider marketplace.
As said, the traditional way of purchasing a property may take time to return to normal levels. So some of the initiatives already in place will keep the wheels oiled. For example, an increasing number of lenders have moved to accepting either automated or desktop valuations, and estate agents have increased the number of ‘virtual’ tours they’ve created for properties. Lenders are also mindful of the delays to the property purchase process, and many borrowers would have already benefited from an agreement to extend the mortgage offer by an extra three months for those that have already exchanged. For those who’ve just started the property buying process, or have been considering it, then do to talk to us. We can discuss the various borrowing options and endeavour to get the ball rolling. This will, hopefully, enable you to be in the strongest possible position once you’re ready to proceed. Do get in touch to hear more. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage. n Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
PROTECTION INSURANCE for YOU It’s often difficult to contemplate needing a Protection policy until... ‘YOU REALLY NEED IT’! Meeting your needs
Have cover in place
However, the current challenging times may well have focused your thoughts on having some protection cover in place. This could be, for example, a policy that’s designed to deliver a lump sum to your family, if the insured person dies. Or it could be a lump sum payout if you suffered a critical illness. Or, a plan that delivers a regular income should you be off work longterm through illness or injury. In terms of what’s most suitable for your needs, this is something we can discuss with you.
If you already have one, or more protection insurance policies in place, then you’re in a better position. However, even here it’s worth having a conversation (if it’s not a policy that we’ve recently set up for you), as there’s been so much innovation over the last few years with the products offered by insurers. Alternatively, in light of the current crisis, you might be thinking about saving money and cancelling a policy (which could prove to be more expensive, with more caveats and an age weighting, should you return to
start a new one with the same insurer). The insurers are mindful of this and some will allow you to stop paying premiums for an agreed period, with certain rules. Also, don’t forget that your policy may have value-added benefits, such as medical and fitness support to tap into, which may deliver vital help, information or inspiration to see you through the COVID-19 crisis. Do talk to us, as you may be surprised by both the cost and value offered. As with all insurance policies, terms, conditions and exclusions will apply.
mortgages Tel: 0121 712 6230 Email: sales@xactmortgages.co.uk
Financial Support: a recap of what’s on offer
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Whilst delivering protection to the NHS is the government’s primary focus, there is also a whole raft of multibillion pound packages to help support the economy, and people’s income stream and job security, such as:
80% of Salary - Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Under this scheme, all UK employers are able to access support to continue paying part of their employees’ salary for those employees that would otherwise have been laid off. It’s applicable to those designated as ‘furloughed workers’ (these are people absent temporarily from work), and the HMRC will reimburse 80% of furloughed workers wage costs, up to a cap of £2,500 per month. This scheme has now been further extended to run until the end of October. The government will ask employers to start sharing part of the cost from August, and at the same time, employers will then be able to bring back furloughed employees to work part-time.
Mortgage payment holiday Mortgage lenders have agreed to support customers (including buy-to-let borrowers) who are experiencing issues with their finances due to COVID-19, including payment holidays of, initially, up to 3 months. However, there are now proposals
in place to extend this holiday period. Whilst a payment holiday may deliver much-needed financial help, do consider if it’s the most suitable route forward for you. First, it’s not so much a ‘holiday’, but more a mortgage ‘deferment’. This is because the
money owed is not being waived, it’s simply added to the overall outstanding amount, so you may be paying more for your mortgage in the long run. Second, you need to agree this with your mortgage lender, so you can’t just stop making payments, as that might impact your credit rating. Finally, there may be other options to consider (if on offer), such as extending the length of the mortgage term to help reduce the immediate monthly payments (again, this would increase the overall cost of the mortgage). You may be able to pay a lower amount each month, or even switch to just paying the interest for a defined period (where the capital amount that’s outstanding would remain the same).
Statutory Sick Pay All of those advised to self-isolate - or caring for those self-isolating - are entitled (if eligible) to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). For those who cannot claim SSP (such as the self-employed), there will be alternative comparable support through the welfare system. Additionally, the normal welfare options are in place, if unemployed.
Business support If you run, or are responsible for, a small or medium-sized business, you will be aware of the wide range of initiatives to deliver assistance in areas such as reclaiming SSP, business rates help, possible grants, more time to pay tax, and deferring VAT payments. Loans are on offer too. Initially, one of the main schemes here was the Coronavirus
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Business Interruption Loan Scheme, where the government is underwriting 80% of the risk. However, some businesses were complaining about the difficulty to secure loans, and in response to this the Bounce Back Loans scheme has additionally been launched, where the government will now underwrite 100% of loans between £2,000£50,000, with less hoops to jump through. Application is available via a short and simple online form. If successful, the cash will arrive in days. You will not be required to make any repayments across the first 12 months, and this period will also be interestfree, with a 2.5% interest rate, thereafter, agreed between the government and lenders. Further information about the various initiatives can generally be found at www.gov.uk (then search for covid-19).
SELF-EMPLOYMENT INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME n This scheme delivers a taxable cash grant of 80% of a self-employed workers’ profits, up to £2,500 per month. It’s initially paid out in a single instalment, covering 3 months and amounting to a maximum of £7,500. n Those eligible are able to both claim and continue to work. n The scheme is open to those with a trading profit of less than £50,000 in 2018-19, or an average trading profit of less than £50,000 from the previous three financial years (2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19). n Another qualification is that more than half of the income in these periods must come from self-employment. n As self-employed status can be open to interpretation, do contact HMRC to see if you are eligible, or simply use the online eligibility checker. n Those who pay themselves a salary and dividends through their own company may not be covered by the scheme, but might be covered for their salary (up to the eligible amount) via the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. n The scheme covers a minimum period of 3 months, and may possibly be extended beyond that. The specific claims service is available from midMay, and for those eligible, payments will be made from end of May onwards.
Meet our Advisors
Steve Froggatt HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? Been with Xact for 5 years WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Helping people find the best deal in as simple a way as possible SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW? I met Nelson Mandela on an Aston Villa club tour in 1994 FAVOURITE FOOD? Italian FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? Whale watching and shark cage diving in South Africa
Conor Brown HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? 18 Months WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Helping people get the best deal for their mortgage but also love making sure that everyone is fully protected SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW? I lived in America for 18 months FAVOURITE FOOD? Sunday Roast – so many flavours on one plate FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? Disney Land as it is a real family holiday. I can’t wait to take my family there. However, I have always dreamt of going to Bora Bora
Web: www.xactmortgages.co.uk
mortgages Tel: 0121 712 6230 Email: sales@xactmortgages.co.uk
Lee Heycock HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? Since December 2017 WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Solving problems for people who are looking to move but don’t think its achievable SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW? Prior to Xact I served in the Infantry as a LCpl in the Royal Anglian Regiment where we toured Afghanistan, Nigeria and Kenya FAVOURITE FOOD? Sushi, looking forward to the new Japanese restaurant opening in Solihull! FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? A cruise around Italy and the Greek Islands
Colin Jones HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? 5 years WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Speaking to clients on a daily basis and giving them the peace of mind that should the worst happen they will be financially secure. SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW? I am a qualified Golf Instructor FAVOURITE FOOD? Italian FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? Hawaii
Web: www.xactmortgages.co.uk
Meet our Advisors
Mike Hodgkinson HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? 19 September 2001…Day one WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love putting smiles on our customers faces SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW? I have a gold medal for ballroom dancing watch out strictly here I come FAVOURITE FOOD? Sunday Roast FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? Cornwall, have been lucky enough to travel most of the world, Cornwall is still the best
Dane McCarthy HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XACT? Since January 2018 WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I enjoy interacting with all types of people on a daily basis FAVOURITE FOOD? Steak FAVOURTIE TYPE OF HOLIDAY? Anywhere in Scotland
The information contained herein is of a general nature and should not be relied upon as legal or financial advice and is not intended as a substitute for the same. You should seek professional advice tailored to your needs and circumstances before making any decisions. The contents of this newsletter are believed to be correct at the date of publication (May 2020).
step
MOVING A
IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
Whatever your property needs, we’re here to help guide you - every step of the way. Ask us how we can support your move.
T: 0121 712 6230
E: sales@xactmortgages.co.uk W: xactmortgages.co.uk mortgages