{"id":84885,"date":"2026-07-17T11:43:14","date_gmt":"2026-07-17T11:43:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/84885\/"},"modified":"2026-07-17T11:43:14","modified_gmt":"2026-07-17T11:43:14","slug":"i-lost-20000-selling-my-london-flat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/84885\/","title":{"rendered":"I lost \u00a320,000 selling my London flat"},"content":{"rendered":"

Kate Fincham bought her flat in South Norwood for \u00a3310,000 on Valentine\u2019s Day in 2018. \u201cI was chuffed because we got it for below the asking price,\u201d says Fincham, who is 41. She bought it with her partner Ibrahim Mustapha, and it was the first home<\/a> the couple, who met at university<\/a>, had owned. They loved putting their mark on it; painting the walls and building flat-pack furniture. They chose the up-and-coming area for its train, tram and bus links and because it was close to family.<\/p>\n

The couple had two daughters and it wasn\u2019t long before they realised it was time to look for something a bit bigger. \u201cWe originally tried to sell in 2023 at \u00a3350,000. We had one ridiculously low offer and other than a handful of viewings, nothing, so after nearly six months we took it off the market,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

Fincham, a nurse, and her partner Mustapha, a sports journalist, put the property back on the market a year later, with a different agent and at a lower price. \u201cIt took six months to sell and we had to accept a lower offer than we wanted.\u201d The couple completed on the sale in August 2025, after accepting an offer of \u00a3298,000. \u201cWe were told at the time that there was a lot of uncertainty in the market, especially with first-time buyers who were taking a long time to make decisions due to the higher costs and risks that came with borrowing.\u201d<\/p>\n

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\"Couple,Couple, talk and arguing with fight at house for disagreement, conflict and divorce discussion. Woman, explain and bored man for conversation, toxic relationship and drama and marriage fail in lounge \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

The seven rules that could save your marriage<\/p>\n

Keep your sense of self<\/p>\n

I did what I thought I was supposed to do and forgot my needs and wants. I think it\u2019s really important that you\u2019re an individual and not just a person who is married.<\/p>\n

KATIE STRATFORD*, A 55-YEAR-OLD MUM OF TWO, WHO DIVORCED ATER 19 YEARS<\/p>\n

\"ACaption: A married couple sitting in silence, looking in opposite directions. The image captures the concept of female loneliness within a marriage, emotional disconnection, and relationship problems. Symbolizes quiet desperation and isolation at home
Photographer: Galina Zhigalova
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

\nSeven rules to save your marriage\n<\/p>\n

\"\"(Photo: Kathrin Ziegler\/Getty).<\/p>\n

The small things<\/p>\n

Small things, like being brought a cup of tea or saying thank you, make a big difference.<\/p>\n

Therapists<\/p>\n

Karen Deulofeu, who ended her six-year marriage, believes all couples should seek support, even before they think they need it.<\/p>\n

\"FemaleFemale psychiatrist discussing with mid adult woman during therapy session \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"Young(Photo: MTStock Studio\/Getty).<\/p>\n

Listen<\/p>\n

Listen properly by repeating what you have heard and ask if you\u2019ve got that right.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t lose communication<\/p>\n

People don\u2019t talk about the deep issues; nobody else is going to do it for you. You don\u2019t want to ask questions because it might rock the boat\u2026you have to keep talking, and talk about what it is that you want within the relationship to keep going forward.<\/p>\n

KATIE STRATFORD<\/p>\n

\"\"\u2018One question is how to achieve such a longevity hack when most of us have relationships that unsettle us,\u2019 says Dr Amir Levine (Photo: Oliver Rossi\/Getty)<\/p>\n

\nSeven rules to save your marriage\n<\/p>\n

Remember that things change<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you see on social media and what friends say is quite often the\u00a0nice version. Everything is a phase,\u201d says Deulofeu.<\/p>\n

\"Unhappy\u2018I\u2019m genuinely considering returning to full-time work\u2019 (Photo: PeopleImages\/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n

\"ACaption: A senior couple spend time in an indoor sunny market. The woman looks through a clothes on a rail as her husband waits patiently behind her.
Photographer: Catherine Falls Commercial
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

Look at yourself first<\/p>\n

\u201cFocus on what\u2019s in your control and what you can do differently, rather than the other person or a situation that you can\u2019t control. Invest in understanding yourself,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n

There are things that all\u00a0mid-life\u00a0men should know about keeping their hearts healthy.<\/p>\n

From eating more purple fruit to avoiding large bowls of pasta, consultant cardiologist Dr Zoe Astroulakis [below] shares her simple lifestyle habits she wishes her patients would take on board.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\nPositive changes to make\n<\/p>\n

Swap \u2018bad\u2019 fats for healthy ones<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t need to eat a fat-free diet; the key is to reduce your saturated fat. Reduce your dairy and swap your red meat for lean meat such as chicken and oily fish.<\/p>\n

\"ShoppingShoppers are set to face spiralling food bills as a result of the war in Iran (Photo: Bet_Noire\/Getty) <\/p>\n

\"manCaption: man eating fried chicken
Photographer: Prapass Pulsub
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

Control your portions<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t need more carbohydrates in a meal than you can fit in your hand. Enormous plates of\u00a0pasta\u00a0can cause blood sugar spikes, which can lead to health problems.<\/p>\n

\nPositive changes to make\n<\/p>\n

\"ASupermarkets report increasing demand for blueberries (Photo: RHS\/Guy Harrop)<\/p>\n

Look for purple<\/p>\n

Blueberries, black grapes and aubergines are\u00a0great for boosting \u201cgood\u201d cholesterol.<\/p>\n

Have oats<\/p>\n

Porridge is one of the healthiest breakfast options because it\u2019s full of soluble fibre.<\/p>\n

\"OatmealSwap supermarket-bought cereals for wholemeal oats (Photo: Arx0nt\/Getty)<\/p>\n

\"YoungKetamine has become an increasingly mainstream drug used in clubs and festivals in recent years (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Stop taking cocaine<\/p>\n

It can provoke a massive heart attack, even in younger people who\u00a0don\u2019t have existing artery problems.<\/p>\n

Stay below the alcohol limit<\/p>\n

\"Middle\u2018She doesn\u2019t really like me drinking and says that I smell after a night out with friends\u2019 (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

The NHS guidelines of 14 units per week is still more than 1,000 additional calories.<\/p>\n

The safest level to aim for is zero.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re drinking, make sure you have some alcohol-free days each week and space it out.<\/p>\n

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Interview<\/p>\n

5 min read<\/p>\n

\nPositive changes to make\n<\/p>\n

Do cardio too<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t only focus on lifting weights. It might make you look toned, but it says nothing about the health of your heart.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"Close-upCaption: Close-up view of female jogger tying laces of her sport shoes before running exercise routine. Motivation, healthy lifestyle and fitness concept.
Photographer: Xavier Lorenzo
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

\"\"Home blood pressure monitors are now available to buy for around \u00a320, and are preferred over smart watches due to their more accurate readings (Photo: Getty Images)<\/p>\n

Check your levels<\/p>\n

You can get free blood pressure checks in many pharmacies or you can buy a monitor for around \u00a330 to use at home.<\/p>\n

Avoid night shifts<\/p>\n

It disrupts the body\u2019s circadian rhythm and\u00a0can lead to increased cholesterol.<\/p>\n

\"EngineersEngineers from a Thames Water leak hunting team unloads equipment from their van during a night shift in London in 2022 (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\nA sign to look out for\n<\/p>\n

A beer belly is a sign you need to make urgent changes<\/p>\n

\"glassesCaption: glasses of Real ale beer on bar in traditional English pub
Photographer: Peter Cade
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Photodisc<\/p>\n

It\u2019s usually\u00a0a sign you\u2019re drinking too much. By the time your belly starts to bulge, it\u2019s a sign that you\u2019re consuming excess calories and storing too much fat internally.<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

3 min read<\/p>\n

Want a new career but worried it\u2019s too late? <\/p>\n

Mid-life is not too late to start again, says experienced recruiter Elizabeth Willetts [below].<\/p>\n

Here, Willetts shares the best jobs to switch to during midlife if you want a change \u2013 without sacrificing pay.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\nChanging careers in your fifties\n<\/p>\n

Mid-life\u00a0career pivots\u00a0can lead to higher earnings.\u00a0<\/p>\n

7.4%<\/p>\n

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, workers aged 45 to 54 who voluntarily pivot jobs see an average wage growth of 7.4 per cent.<\/p>\n

3.5%<\/p>\n

And those aged 55 to 64 still see a 3.5 per
cent increase.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The AARP Global Employee Survey also found that over half of workers who changed jobs voluntarily experienced improvements in work flexibility and mental health.<\/p>\n

So what job options are there? <\/p>\n

\nVirtual assistant\n<\/p>\n

As a virtual assistant your workload will be very\u00a0varied and it could be anything from tidying inboxes, booking travel, sending invoices or updating spreadsheets.<\/p>\n

\"OnlineMore and more people are using AI for counselling (Photo: Oscar Wong\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n

\"ConfidentConfident successful Indian female HR recruitment manager holding resume in hands while having an interview in a modern office, looking and listening to job candidate. Friendly interview between HR female director and caucasian job candidate. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

You can start out earning around \u00a320 to \u00a335 an hour, but it can scale into agency work, launch support or even project management.\u00a0Some earn very well.<\/p>\n

\nRecruitment\n<\/p>\n

\"MaleMale candidate handshake with the recruiter at job interview \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

What it involves<\/p>\n

You will source, screen and interview candidates to match them with the right job roles.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s for<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t need any qualifications but it\u2019s suited to communicators and commercially-minded people.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"RearviewRearview female recruitment reading and checking resume in hands interviewing and hiring woman candidate for jo\u0438 near laptop in office with glass windows \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Olga Rolenko\/ Getty)<\/p>\n

\"\"From April 2027, retirement savings will be included when the tax bill for those inheriting money is calculated (Photo: Malte Mueller\/Getty)<\/p>\n

The pay<\/p>\n

The salary van vary from \u00a325 to \u00a350k, but you can earn around \u00a3100k depending on commission.<\/p>\n

\nJobs to switch to in your fifties\n<\/p>\n

\"MaleSome estate agents give high valuations to drum up business (Photo: Monkey Business Images\/Getty\/iStockphoto)<\/p>\n

Estate agent<\/p>\n

It offers flexible hours and weekend staff can earn \u00a315 per hour.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Training<\/p>\n

This form of coaching for businesses\u00a0could earn around \u00a3250 to \u00a31,000 per day.<\/p>\n

\"portraitCaption: portrait of confident senior business man holding digital tablet in modern office
Photographer: zeljkosantrac
Provider: Getty Images
Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n

\"A(Photo: Getty).<\/p>\n

Sales<\/p>\n

In the lower end,\u00a0a sales rep can make \u00a330k and on the higher end \u00a350-60k, plus commission.<\/p>\n

Why coaching is a good option<\/p>\n

Coaching is incredibly varied and can be anything from\u00a0career coaching, to\u00a0confidence and leadership coaching.\u00a0<\/p>\n

As it is an unregulated industry, you don\u2019t need qualifications but the more reputable option is the International Coaching Federation.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a great career option for older people because clients genuinely\u00a0value your wealth of life experience.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s flexible, scalable, and you can start doing it part-time alongside another role.<\/p>\n

It could make you anything from \u00a3200 an hour, all the way up to \u00a3500 p\/h+.<\/p>\n

\"staffEven though the NHS Pension scheme is envied by many for its generosity, those working for the NHS facing financial struggles are choosing to opt out (Photo: Getty Images)<\/p>\n

Consulting<\/p>\n

This can be across HR, operations, marketing, finance, people strategy or project management, as it\u2019s varied.<\/p>\n

A huge number of businesses now want expertise without having to hire full-time staff so there is a big job market for\u00a0freelance consultants.<\/p>\n

Price on value, not hours \u2013 if your advice saves a client \u00a3200k, charging \u00a3150 an hour undersells what you\u2019re worth.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Do some foods leave
you feeling hungry rather than satiated? Experts say there are\u2026<\/p>\n

\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n

A bowl of cereal and glass of orange juice<\/p>\n

More refined cereals are digested quickly, and fruit juice, whilst one of your five-a-day, contains less fibre than whole fruit. This might mean you find yourself hungry again within 1-2 hours of eating this breakfast.<\/p>\n

\"\"No more orange juice. (Photo via pixaby)<\/p>\n

\"WomanIt\u2019s estimated ultra processed foods make up at least half of the average UK diet (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Swap the\u00a0orange juice\u00a0for a whole orange, the cereal for oats and milk or serve it with Greek yoghurt or a boiled egg. This would increase the fibre and protein content; two nutrients strongly linked with fullness.<\/p>\n

\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n

\"Gail'sCaption: Gail\u2019s croissant
Image taken from https:\/\/gails.com\/collections\/breakfast\/products\/croissant<\/p>\n

Croissants<\/p>\n

These pastries are made primarily from refined flour and butter, and are relatively low in protein and fibre.<\/p>\n

Toast and jam<\/p>\n

It is mostly carbohydrate and without protein or fibre, it is digested quickly, leaving you feeling hungry.<\/p>\n

\"ToastedCaption: Toasted bread and white background
Photographer: Daniel Tamas Mehes
Provider: Getty Images
Source: iStockphoto
Copyright: Minden jog fenntartva!<\/p>\n

\"FILEYakitori\u2019s on the menu at the Japanese restaurant \u2013 but what exactly is it? (Photo: Reuters)<\/p>\n

Sushi<\/p>\n

Shop-bought packs can contain a lot of white rice, which is digested quickly, and the protein content is often modest.<\/p>\n

\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n

\"SarawakSarawak laksa is one of many varieties of this noodle soup (Photo: Tham Kee Chuan\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Vegetable soup<\/p>\n

On its own, it is often very low in protein and calories, so hunger can return quickly.<\/p>\n

Pizza<\/p>\n

Unless it\u2019s loaded with veggies, it\u2019s probably pretty low in fibre.<\/p>\n

\"\"Best pizza in Britain named \u2013 and owner reveals the secret to its success (Photo: James Linsell Clark\/SWNS)<\/p>\n

\"WASHINGTON,The Government has announced that the sugar tax will be extended to milkshakes (Photo: Scott Suchman)<\/p>\n

Smoothies<\/p>\n

Liquids are generally less filling as they require little chewing which may not trigger satiety signals.<\/p>\n

\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n

\"London,\u2018Aged 14, I started what I considered to be my own little business selling confectionary,\u2019 writes Beauty Dhlamini (Photo: Getty) <\/p>\n

Snack bars<\/p>\n

They are ideal\u00a0for a quick pick-me-up, but if reducing hunger is what you\u2019re after, it\u2019d be better to swap it out. <\/p>\n

Low-fat yoghurt<\/p>\n

A full-fat plain Greek yoghurt with berries and seeds tends to be much more filling due to the protein, fat and fibre.<\/p>\n

\"WhichWhich yoghurts are the best options? (Unsplash)<\/p>\n

\"BANGKOK,Caption: BANGKOK, THAILAND \u2013 OCTOBER 17: A \u201cKT Herbalist\u201d, a Kratom cocktail made from Kratom, coffee and siamese herbs is seen at Teens of Thailand, a bar in Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown on October 17, 2021 in Bangkok, Thailand. In April 2021, the start of Thailand\u2019s third and most deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government banned the sale of alcohol in restaurants and bars, crippling the already suffering food and beverage industry. With a lack of government aid and support, some bars have shuttered their doors in hopes of reopening post-lockdown, while others shuttered their doors for good. But six months into Thailand\u2019s most recent lockdown, Niks Anuman-Rajadhon, owner of Teens of Thailand, a gin bar located in a renovated shophouse in Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown, decided that instead of waiting for the government to allow the sale of alcohol again, they would take advantage of Thailand\u2019s recent legalization of Kratom. Kratom is a locally grown herbal drug with mild opioid and stimulant effects and was reclassified from a type-5 narcotic to a legal-to-grow herb in August 2021. While Thailand prepares for a tentative reopening on November 1st, the alcohol ban and curfew are set to continue, leaving business owners questioning if the country can revive its suffering tourism industry. (Photo by Lauren DeCicca\/Getty Images)
Photographer: Lauren DeCicca
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Getty Images AsiaPac<\/p>\n

Alcohol<\/p>\n

On an empty stomach, it can actually increase your appetite.<\/p>\n

\nWhat to eat instead\n<\/p>\n

Instead of thinking about avoiding foods, think about what you can add to them.<\/p>\n

Add beans, lentils or shredded chicken to your vegetable soup and pasta.<\/p>\n

Thicken your smoothies with Greek yoghurt, chia seeds and oats.<\/p>\n

Apple slices with peanut butter, yogurt with berries and hummus with oat biscuits\u00a0are better snack options than a pre-made snack bar.<\/p>\n

Have alcohol alongside a balanced meal containing protein and fibre.<\/p>\n

How to age well
without pain<\/p>\n

Will Harlow, a physiotherapist
for the over-50s and author of Independence for Life, shares
the key signs you\u2019re ageing
badly \u2013 and what to do about it.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

How to know <\/p>\n

Ageing well is maintaining the ability to do what you want you want for as long as you want without needing help. Everyone is talking about\u00a0longevity but what\u2019s the point in living longer if the last decade is painful and you\u2019re [totally] reliant on people?\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

The signs to look out for<\/p>\n

\"SeniorSenior woman on sofa feeling and suffering from back pain. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

The most obvious early warning sign of bad ageing is pain says Harlow.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Another is losing confidence in doing daily tasks, which can quickly lead to a lack of independence.<\/p>\n

One call Harlow often receives is people calling after having a fall and struggling to get up.<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

4 min read<\/p>\n

\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n

\"\"Many will worry about not saving enough for retirement (Photo: Alex Tihonov\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n

Not just stopping<\/p>\n

When people retire, they often put their feet up and stop. Your body really is use it or lose it.<\/p>\n

Sleep<\/p>\n

Throughout our entire lives, Harlow says we need between seven and nine hours of sleep.<\/p>\n

\"TiredNaps before 1pm can lead to better cognitive performance in the following hours (Photo: Lord Henri Voton\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n

\"MaribelCaption: Maribel Ezcurra, 77, a retired milling machine mechanic, practices tai chi with fellow seniors in a park in the Playa neighborhood of Havana, Cuba, Wednesday, April 15, 2026. (AP Photo\/Ramon Espinosa)
Photographer: Ramon Espinosa
Provider: AP
Source: AP<\/p>\n

Social isolation<\/p>\n

The lack of connection can increase the risk of premature death by
as much as 29 per cent.<\/p>\n

Strength training<\/p>\n

It really is the proxy for
overall independence.<\/p>\n

The more muscle mass you have, the less chance of heart disease, diabetes, falls and even anxiety,\u00a0depression and\u00a0dementia.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"ThisCaption: This is a photo of a senior man helping his wife lift weights. See PA Feature HEALTH Physio. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA feature HEALTH Physio. PA Photo.Picture credit should read: Alamy\/PA. <\/p>\n

NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature HEALTH Physio. <\/p>\n

Photographer: Alamy
Provider: Alamy\/PA
Source: PA<\/p>\n

The brain can be linked to muscle mass too, Harlow says. It\u2019s not just about being able to lift things. It gives you more energy, better sleep and you\u2019ll look and feel better.<\/p>\n

\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n

Daily habits<\/p>\n

Do short bursts of exercise, between 30 and 60 seconds, in otherwise dead time during the day.<\/p>\n

\"ElderlyFit more walking into your day (Photo: andreswd\/Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n

\"ASleep can affect your heart health (Photo: Flashpop\/Getty\/Digital Vision)<\/p>\n

Stretch in bed<\/p>\n

Take joints through a full range of motion for five minutes to loosen it before getting up.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t crash diet<\/p>\n

It can increase the decline of muscle mass and bone density, which needs to be avoided.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"ACalorie counting every day can be a pain (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n

\"Protein(Photo: Inga Erhan\/ Gingagi\/ Getty).<\/p>\n

Protein<\/p>\n

Harlow advises 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight to stop muscle loss alongside resistance training.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t wait<\/p>\n

Harlow finds that many patients put off making a change to their lifestyle until their lives are consumed by pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"MenstrualMenstrual pain, woman with stomachache suffering from pms at home, endometriosis, cystitis and other diseases of the urinary system \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"Close-upCaption: Close-up view of female jogger tying laces of her sport shoes before running exercise routine. Motivation, healthy lifestyle and fitness concept.
Photographer: Xavier Lorenzo
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

Recovery<\/p>\n

For most people, it\u2019s\u00a0about reducing the number of times per week you\u2019re exercising, not reducing intensity.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\nThe three ageing tests to do\n<\/p>\n

Lie completely flat on the floor and get back up to a standing position using any technique. This should take less than 10 seconds.<\/p>\n

See how many times you can sit on the chair and stand back up again in 30 seconds. Men should be aiming for more than 14 times and women\u00a012.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The single-leg stand, which involves standing on one leg and balancing for 10 seconds. Everyone should be able to do that and for those under 65, Harlow asks them to do it with their eyes closed.<\/p>\n

Despite the job market hiring fewer entry-level roles, employers are still looking for grads\u2026<\/p>\n

But you should be prepared to keep an open mind. <\/p>\n

We\u2019ve compiled the sectors hiring graduate roles, what degree is required, and what they pay.<\/p>\n

\"YoungPlan 5 applies to students who began university courses on or after August 2023
(Photo: Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez\/Getty Images\/
Source: Moment RF)<\/p>\n

\nThe degrees to choose for a career\n<\/p>\n

Hiring in the UK could
finally be on the up<\/p>\n

47%<\/p>\n

of employers offered entry-level
positions from July.<\/p>\n

That is up nearly 15 per cent from the same period last year.<\/p>\n

700,000<\/p>\n

But graduate unemployment\u00a0rose to six per cent in 2025 and 700,000 jobless graduates were\u00a0claiming benefits.<\/p>\n

\nFinance and insurance\n<\/p>\n

Around 42 per cent of UK finance and insurance employers say they will be open to graduate roles this summer.<\/p>\n

Business loan company Portman Finance\u00a0Group has taken on 50 graduates over the past four years.<\/p>\n

\"AA lot of thought needs to be put into transferring a DB pension to a DC pot (Photo: Getty Images)<\/p>\n

Portman graduates start on \u00a336,000 for the two-year programme and the education you need to apply is a minimum \u201cABB\u201d of A-levels, and a 2:1 or above university degree. But not in a specific subject.<\/p>\n

\"MatureLoose, natural fabrics are the best clothing option when the temperature rises (Photo: Kate Wieser\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Trade and logistics<\/p>\n

What makes it particularly rewarding is that there\u2019s always something to learn.<\/p>\n

Nearly half (47 per cent) of trade and logistics companies will be giving graduates a go this year.<\/p>\n

Salaries start at \u00a330,000 with an uncapped bonus, rising to \u00a350,000 plus a company car as a senior account partner.<\/p>\n

Technology and IT<\/p>\n

More than half (52 per cent) of UK tech and IT firms are actively looking for graduates.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Successful entry-level candidates can earn a basic salary of up to \u00a335,000, with the opportunity to triple that within their first three years of working.<\/p>\n

\"YoungCaption: Young business woman searching for job online. Woman writing resume on laptop.
Photographer: Maria Korneeva
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

4 min read<\/p>\n

\nPublic sector, health
and social services\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

46 per cent of public sector, health and social services organisations are also\u00a0ready to take graduates, according to a survey by Manpower.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"AA policeman walking away from an elderly person\u2019s home. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

For example, Police Now runs a graduate\u00a0programme into policing. They\u00a0recruit graduates from any degree field, as long as they achieve a 2:2 or above. Starting salaries range from \u00a331,164 to \u00a342,210 depending\u00a0on location and rising each year.<\/p>\n

Can we treat guests without blowing our budget?<\/p>\n

According to Waitrose, a dinner party revival is underway led by younger people trying to reduce the cost of getting together.<\/p>\n

The i Paper food writer Sophie Morris [below] asks chefs for their best ideas for hosting at home. <\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Always have bread<\/p>\n

People will feast on the
bread, and then need less fish\/steak\/expensive whatever. All small plates restaurants know this: this is why the first thing on the menu is always artisan bread and butter. <\/p>\n

ELLA RISBRIDGER, AUTHOR OF THE KITCHEN BOOK \u2013 GOOD FOOD FOR EVERY DAY<\/p>\n

\"FemaleFemale Hands cutting bread. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\nUse vegetables as centrepieces\n<\/p>\n

Chef and food writer Helen Graham turns vegetables into centrepieces to cut down on meat and fish expenses.<\/p>\n

\"VarietyVariety Fresh of organic fruits and vegetables and healthy vegan meal ingredients in reusable eco cotton bags on beige background . Zero waste shopping concept. Healthy food, clean eating, eco friendly, no plastic. Flat lay, top view \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"BeautifulBeautiful woman unpacks a full fabric bag with fruits and vegetables on the kitchen. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Add pantry items<\/p>\n

Graham\u2019s recipes include a braised cabbage with a preserved lemon sauce, a roast cauliflower with saffron, and harrisa roast carrots with mango labneh.<\/p>\n

\nHow to host on a budget\n<\/p>\n

\"TableMany of the dishes we take for granted in British curry joints are entirely unlike anything you might find to eat in the subcontinent (Photo: Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n

Improve the everyday<\/p>\n

Guests will\u00a0always appreciate a stellar interpretation of the ordinary. Think lasagna or curry. <\/p>\n

Generosity<\/p>\n

Cooking dinner for your guests is spoiling them \u2013 you\u2019re being generous with your time, your effort, and your home. So don\u2019t feel the need to go overboard elsewhere.<\/p>\n

\"A(Photo: FilippoBacci\/Getty Images\/E+)<\/p>\n

\"ManMan serving friends salad at backyard dinner party \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Ask for help<\/p>\n

Ask friends to bring a contribution, be it a nibble or a pudding.<\/p>\n

Big platter energy<\/p>\n

[Presentation] can be the key to elevating something\u00a0. Spaghetti and tomato sauce suddenly looks like a feast when tumbled\u00a0on a lovely big plate, dressed with olive oil and parmesan and placed in the middle of the table.<\/p>\n

Food writer and editor Eleanor Steafel\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\"Entertaining doesn\u2019t have to be stressful (Photo: The Good Brigade\/Getty\/Digital Vision)<\/p>\n

\nHow to host on a budget\n<\/p>\n

Taco party<\/p>\n

Have one expensive filling, like shredded chicken, and two cheaper options, like refried beans, says Ella Risbridger.<\/p>\n

\"TraditionalTraditional ice cream parlours are still going strong (Shutterstock)<\/p>\n

\"TacosTacos are a popular dish throughout the country (Photo: Daniela White Images\/Getty) <\/p>\n

Sundaes<\/p>\n

Shop-bought ice cream is so easily zhuzhed up with the help of handy toppings, says Eleanor Steafel.<\/p>\n

\"LynseyCaption: Lynsey Crombie @lynsey_queenofclean, home expert and TV presenter<\/p>\n

Low-effort tricks for
a cleaner house<\/p>\n

While many Britons feel inspired to\u00a0tackle their homes\u00a0during summer, the warmer months can also make cleaning harder.<\/p>\n

But Lynsey Crombie, known as the Queen of Clean, says the hotter months\u00a0can increase mould, musty smells and sweaty clothes.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Here, she shares the tips and practical
hacks she lives by.<\/p>\n

\nEvery 30 washes, clean the machine\n<\/p>\n

A study of 1,000 UK residents by Domestic & General revealed that almost one in 10 Brits have never\u00a0cleaned\u00a0their washing machine, yet it could be grubbier than the toilet seat.<\/p>\n

\"OverheadOverhead view of young Asian woman loading the washing machine with laundry \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"WomanWoman loading washing machine in the kitchen \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Crombie says after 30 washes, use 500 grams of soda crystals on the hottest wash to clean out the drum. If there\u2019s sludge, run a quick rinse cycle with some white vinegar. <\/p>\n

Always make sure to leave the door and drawer ajar for 10 minutes to dry out too and avoid stale smells.<\/p>\n

\nHousehold ingredients to use\n<\/p>\n

\"EnsureProlonged exposure to forever chemicals has been linked to health problems (Photo: Olga Rolenko\/Moment RF\/Getty)<\/p>\n

White vinegar<\/p>\n

This is Crombie\u2019s go to. It can descale the kettle and taps and deodorise places in her home.<\/p>\n

Table salt<\/p>\n

For tough stains like red wine, rub salt into the stain, leave overnight and wash as normal. <\/p>\n

\"UnrecognizableThe drunken monkey theory could explain humans\u2019 drinking habit (Photo: Olga Pankova\/Getty)<\/p>\n

\"FreshThe fridge extends a lemon\u2019s lifespan (Photo: Paul Calinescu\/500px\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Lemons<\/p>\n

For stubborn water marks, use half a lemon and bicarbonate of soda and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing. <\/p>\n

\"DetailFor Valentine\u2019s Day, try giving her something she\u2019ll really love (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Cold water is better<\/p>\n

You\u2019re damaging [wooden] floor [with hot water], making it expand, stretch
and cause gaps\u2026<\/p>\n

During hot days, Crombie says to avoid cleaning with hot water altogether to avoid adding humidity to the home.<\/p>\n

\u201cCold water is much better, and if you\u2019re using the right floor cleaning product, it\u2019s still going to be clean,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

\nHacks for a cleaner home\n<\/p>\n

Three is the magic number<\/p>\n

Wash your towels after two to three uses and make sure they dry properly in-between.<\/p>\n

\"OrangeAs it turns out, a human towel is like Alton Towers for bacteria. A lot of fun can be had. (Photo: Joxxxjo\/ iStockphoto\/ Getty)<\/p>\n

\"TOTOCaption: TOTO Neorest WX<\/p>\n

TOTO toilets
www.gb.toto.com<\/p>\n

Image supplied by
Julienne Webster <\/p>\n

Focus on hotspots<\/p>\n

Clean the \u201chigh traffic\u201d areas, like the toilets, kitchen worktops and the hallway daily.<\/p>\n

Open the windows<\/p>\n

To keep a home fresh open the windows for 15 minutes each day \u2013 even in colder months. <\/p>\n

\"AnKeep your curtains closed (Photo: Mireya Acierto\/Getty\/Photodisc)<\/p>\n

\nWeekly habits\n<\/p>\n

Do it more frequently, to cut down how long it takes<\/p>\n

\"LazyHe doesn\u2019t always have time to do the cleaning, the ironing, or walk the dog
Photographer: Maryviolet
Provider: Getty Images\/iStockphoto
Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n

One task Crombie does weekly is her fridge. This includes a 10-minute wipe-down, focusing on the salad and vegetable tray. \u201cIf you save\u00a0that job\u00a0up and do it every other month, it\u2019s going to be a very big chore.\u201d<\/p>\n

\t
\n\t\t\"\"\/
\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n

LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

4 min read<\/p>\n

\nHacks for a cleaner home\n<\/p>\n

\"AnCaption: An employee of the French pan maker Cristel, wipes a frying pan at the Cristel factory, on May 23, 2024, in Fesches-le-Chatel, eastern France. At Fesches-le-Chatel, in the Doubs region of France, the Cristel factory is on a roll: France\u2019s number-one manufacturer of stainless steel kitchen equipment has seen \u201cdemand explode\u201d since the National Assembly passed a law restricting the use of PFAS in April. (Photo by SEBASTIEN BOZON \/ AFP) (Photo by SEBASTIEN BOZON\/AFP via Getty Images)
Photographer: SEBASTIEN BOZON
Provider: AFP via Getty Images
Source: AFP
Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n

Stainless steel<\/p>\n

Crombie\u2019s hack is one product: Barkeeper\u2019s Friend in powder form. <\/p>\n

The expensive products<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you spend more money, you get the floral scents. The\u00a0difference is scent, not performance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"DeepDeep cleaning glass door handles for Covid-19 disease prevention. alcohol,disinfectant spray on Wipes of Banister in home for safety,infection of Covid-19 virus,contamination, germs \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"CleaningCleaning day at home \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Ignore online advice<\/p>\n

The biggest issue she sees is product overuse. \u201cYou don\u2019t need half a bottle of washing up liquid to clean a surface.\u201d<\/p>\n

\nCrombie\u2019s essentials\n<\/p>\n

Four products can do do\u00a0a full clean\u00a0of the house.<\/p>\n

Antibacterial washing-up liquid: \u201cIt can clean almost anything, and any brand works.\u201d<\/p>\n

M&S Fabric Refresher spray: It\u2019s pet-friendly, eco-friendly and \u201cticks all the boxes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cif cream cleaner: \u201cIt\u2019s an old school product. It\u2019s so good.\u201d<\/p>\n

White vinegar: \u201c\u201cIt\u2019s great for\u00a0washing sportswear, gym kits and is a great stain remover.\u201d<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"\"\/<\/p>\n

While the two-bed, first-floor flat came with a shared garden<\/a>, the couple were told by agents that post-Covid, people were looking for properties with private outside space. Another factor that Fincham believes affected things was that the \u201cpromised regeneration of the area had halted due to Covid and issues with Croydon Council\u2019s budget management\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was extremely frustrating as it was a nice flat in a block of four, with a lovely shared garden, with share of freehold, so to sell at a loss was heartbreaking. But we decided we had to accept a lower offer as we had two growing children in a tiny flat.\u201d The impact of this loss was that the couple had to buy a smaller house than they\u2019d planned which needed work but had potential to extend in the future. The couple are pragmatic about their experience. \u201cNow looking back it is what it is. And given the ongoing global instability, cost of living etc., we are grateful we have a house with a lovely garden for the kids. We have potential to extend and grow and put our own mark on the place so it all worked out in the end,\u201d says Fincham. \u201cOf course, it would have been lovely to have made money and bought a bigger house which is what our peers who bought in the preceding Covid years have done.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"\u2018It would have been lovely to have made money and bought a bigger house which is what our peers have done,\u2019 says Fincham<\/p>\n

In May, the lender Halifax<\/a> reported that the average price of a typical UK home fell by 0.1 per cent to \u00a3298,806, which was the third consecutive monthly drop. And research conducted by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) last month found that the South East and South West of England are exhibiting more price negativity, compared to the UK average. Political instability and global conflict mean confidence in the housing market is constantly changing.<\/p>\n

Property broker and founder of ML Property Venture Melissa Lewis says selling a property for less than it was bought for is more common than many people think. Obviously, it will depend on the property type and location, but many people who thought investing in property in the last decade or so would be a savvy financial decision haven\u2019t reaped the rewards they expected. Lewis says: \u201cAcross most of England, traditional family houses have held up reasonably well. However, leasehold flats, for example in parts of Kent and Essex, have been far more exposed to price falls. I\u2019ve spoken to owners who bought between 2016 and 2022 who are now finding they\u2019re unable to recover their purchase price once selling costs are included.\u201d<\/p>\n

There are a multitude of reasons why sellers might be making a loss on their properties in the current market. Economic and employment uncertainty mean the pool of potential buyers is smaller, and those that are looking are taking longer to commit. \u201cHigher mortgage rates have significantly reduced buyer affordability and have changed monthly profit margins for owners,\u201d she adds. Lewis says buyers are also doing more due diligence before signing on the dotted line.<\/p>\n

Other contributory factors include fire safety and cladding concerns, which continue to affect blocks of flats and are putting off buyers. And new-build flats which were sold at a premium may not have held their value which means vendors are struggling to justify their asking prices upon resale.<\/p>\n

This has been the case for *Sam, 39, who bought his new-build flat in Stockwell, south London, 10 years ago. The one-bed is in a good location for the area\u2019s shops, parks and bars, but every time Sam has put it on the market in the last four years, he\u2019s failed to receive any offers even close to his asking price of \u00a3520,000. He rents the flat out, which covers his mortgage, but he has no idea what will happen in the long-term. \u201cWhen I first bought the flat the value rose quickly but after Covid it really started to stagnate. I think the lack of outside space and the fact that it only has one bedroom made it less appealing to buyers worried about any future lockdown scenarios. Every time I\u2019ve tested it on the market I\u2019ve had to lower the price, but still have had no bites. Meanwhile, the service charge on the block keeps rising.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sam, who is an accountant, is now married with two young children and living in a house in Wandsworth. \u201cWe\u2019re lucky that our salaries have enabled us to be able to buy our family home but we\u2019d love to make renovations to the house. I don\u2019t think we\u2019re going to be able to do that unless I sell my flat but I\u2019m fully expecting to sell it without making a profit,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

Is property still worth investing in?<\/p>\n

While Baby Boomers and older Millennials saw the biggest gains when interest rates were low and house prices were rising rapidly, Lewis believes housing can still create wealth, just not in the same, almost effortless, way it once did. \u201cFuture returns are likely to depend much more on buying the right property, in the right location, at the right price, rather than simply buying almost anything because it\u2019s cheap and waiting,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

Claire Sweet, financial adviser and intergenerational wealth strategist at Blueprint Financial Solutions, says: \u201cIt\u2019s still possible to make gains in property but this should be a secondary bonus from living in and enjoying your home. I always say buy the worst house in the best street you can afford\u2026 you can improve the home but not the area. Be mindful of resell restrictions from the outset. We once bought a great house in an area new to us and didn\u2019t know it backed onto the worst council estate in the town. It took me nearly nine months to sell it when we wanted to move because other people were put off by the area, despite us never having any issues.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul Malone, founder of MovingSoon which is a directory of properties for sale and rent, says: \u201cStagnating property prices<\/a> don\u2019t necessarily mean property is no longer a worthwhile investment, but they do change how investors need to think.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lewis says while the problem is most prevalent in London flats, \u201cit\u2019s a national picture\u201d. \u201cMany properties around the South have experienced slower growth or price falls, while numerous northern cities and parts of Scotland have remained relatively resilient,\u201d she says. \u201cThe market has become increasingly regional, with local supply, affordability and employment playing a much bigger role than national averages.\u201d<\/p>\n

Malone says demand for rental properties \u201cremains strong in many parts of the UK, so the overall return will also depend on rental yields, running costs, financing and the long-term investment strategy\u201d. But the introduction of the Renters\u2019 Rights Act<\/a>, which gives private tenants more protection, has changed what it looks like to be a landlord now. \u201cIt\u2019s no longer simply a case of buying a property and expecting strong returns,\u201d says Malone. \u201cInvestors need to understand the responsibilities that come with managing a rental property, whether they do that themselves or appoint a letting agent.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lewis says the types of homes she has seen holding their value are two- or three-bed freehold family homes, properties with gardens or balconies, properties close to good schools and transport links and homes which are energy efficient or have hi-tech features. And when it comes to choosing an area to buy property in, Lewis recommends looking at places with strong employment growth, cities or towns benefiting from regeneration plans, locations with housing under supply and quality rental markets supported by local demand.<\/p>\n

Everyone\u2019s situation is different. From the size of their funds and their long-term objectives, to the level of risk they\u2019re prepared to take. It all depends on the individual investor. But Malone says there\u2019s one thing which applies to everyone: \u201cCareful research and realistic expectations are more important than ever.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Kate Fincham bought her flat in South Norwood for \u00a3310,000 on Valentine\u2019s Day in 2018. \u201cI was chuffed…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":84886,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[26],"tags":[1416,1466,563,154,85,27],"class_list":["post-84885","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-london","tag-features","tag-help-to-buy","tag-house-prices","tag-housing","tag-housing-market","tag-london"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@UnitedKingdom\/116935145463745624","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/84885","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=84885"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/84885\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/84886"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=84885"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=84885"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=84885"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}