Christmas

A former burglar and the police reveal how to keep your house secure over the festive season. Lisa Salmon finds out more.

If you’re looking forward to Christmas, bear in mind that thieves are gleefully anticipating it too – last year, there was a substantial increase in insurance claims for burglaries in winter, particularly over the Christmas period.

Halifax Home Insurance...

When is the best time to investigate a house move or new mortgage deal? Statistics show that many people choose the Christmas holidays to get the ball rolling. Here, Michael Usher – owner of Michael Usher Mortgage Services – considers the seasonal trend...

As Christmas fast approaches, most people are frantically shopping for gifts rather than thinking about house moves, mortgages or...

Hoping to find yourself some Christmas treats? Slip away from the hustle and bustle of a town centre to one of these Christmas markets in special places cared for by the National Trust and shop safe in the knowledge that every penny you spend is helping to care for them. Plus there’s a chance for wintry walks and a festive treats in the cafés.

Arlington Court Christmas fair...

It may be way too early for many people to want to think about Christmas (unless you're one of those hyper-organised festive types who starts preparing almost a year in advance!).

But right now could be a golden opportunity to do some planning, which will help you stick to a budget when the festivities come around. Leaving preparations until the last minute can mean paying top dollar...