Ian Court - Mortgage and Protection Adviser

23/06/2026

23/06/2026

Why did everyone used to automatically choose a 25-year mortgage? 🤔🏡

For years, 25 years was seen as the ‘normal’ mortgage term. But why?

The truth is, it often became the default rather than a decision based on someone’s individual circumstances.

Today, mortgage terms can be much shorter or much longer, depending on your goals, budget and future plans.

The right mortgage term isn’t about doing what everyone else does – it’s about choosing what works for you.

Watch the video to find out why the old 25-year rule doesn’t always apply anymore. 👇
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Finance Planning is a trading name of The Finance Planning Group Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

23/06/2026

What is Stamp Duty?
If you buy a property in England or Northern Ireland, you may have to pay stamp duty land tax.
It’s a tax paid by the buyer when purchasing a home.
Current rates (2026):
• £0 – £125,000 → 0%
• £125,001 – £250,000 → 2%
• £250,001 – £925,000 → 5%
• £925,001 – £1.5m → 10%
• £1.5m+ → 12%
First-time buyers get relief:
• £0 – £300,000 → 0%
• £300,001 – £500,000 → 5%
• Over £500,000 → normal rates apply
eg, If you buy a home for £300,000, the stamp duty is about £5,000.
Buying a second home or buy-to-let?
You’ll usually pay an extra surcharge on top of these rates.
See less

19/06/2026

Self-employed and looking for a mortgage? 🏡

You may not need three years of accounts, and different lenders can assess your income in very different ways.

The right lender can make a big difference.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Finance Planning is a trading name of The Finance Planning Group Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

17/06/2026

🏡 Don’t fall in love with a house before knowing your budget.

Understanding affordability first could save you a lot of time and heartache.

If you’re thinking about buying a home, I can help you understand what’s realistic before you start viewing.

📩 Drop me a message.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Finance Planning is a trading name of The Finance Planning Group Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

17/06/2026

Please follow my instagram page.

16/06/2026

What mortgage term is right for me?

For decades, the 25-year mortgage has been seen as the “standard.” But standard doesn’t always mean right for everyone. The ideal term depends on your financial goals, income, stage of life and long-term plans, whether you’re buying your first home in your 20s, upgrading in your 40s, or planning for retirement in your 50s and beyond.

Benefits of a 25-year term
Lower monthly repayments compared to shorter terms
Greater flexibility in your monthly budget
Can make borrowing more accessible across different life stages

Benefits of a longer term (30–35+ years)
Even lower monthly payments, improving affordability for any age group
Helps borrowers buy sooner or borrow more comfortably, regardless of career stage
Creates cash flow flexibility for expenses like childcare, education, investing, or lifestyle goals
Allows for planned overpayments later if circumstances improve

Potential downsides
You’ll usually pay more interest over the life of the mortgage
It may take longer to become mortgage-free
It might not align with retirement or long-term wealth-building plans

Many borrowers select a term simply because it’s the default, rather than because it’s the most effective choice for their situation. The right mortgage term is the one that fits your life, not just the norm.

We help clients look at the bigger picture. Sometimes a shorter term can save tens of thousands in interest, while in other cases a longer term with planned overpayments provides the right balance of flexibility and control.

The key is having a mortgage strategy that fits your life, not just the norm.
If you’re reviewing your mortgage or planning a move this year, we’re always happy to have a conversation.
Call on 07400383279.
Visit https://financeplanning.co.uk/ian-court
Follow us on our social media channels and stay ahead with the best mortgage advice!

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
Finance Planning is a trading name of The Finance Planning Group Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

11/06/2026

The World Cup is finally here, and we couldn't be more excited! ⚽

We're looking forward to an incredible tournament and getting right behind both England and Scotland as they take on the world's best. Wishing both teams the very best of luck, come on England and Scotland! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿⚽🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Who else is counting down to kick off?