This episode is one of my favourites of the entire YEAR. A cosy, honest chat all about reflecting on the past 12 months, celebrating what went well, acknowledging what didn’t, and getting ready for a powerful, aligned 2026. I’m sharing my FULL yearly reflection ritual: ✨ The questions I ask myself every December ✨ How I choose my “word of the year” and why it changes everything ✨ The letter I write to myself every New Year’s Eve (that always ends up coming true 👀) ✨ What 2025 taught me about growth, patience, identity, and building a life I love ✨ How YOU can use reflection, intention-setting, and alignment to make 2026 your most grounded and exciting year yet Think of this episode as a warm chat with a friend: part manifestation, part mindset, part life update, and part motivation to step into your next chapter Whether you’re feeling reflective, excited, unsure, or ready for a fresh start… this episode will help you reset, realign, and step into 2026 with clarity and confidence. Main Topics: • My favourite reflection prompts & journaling questions • My yearly traditions: word of the year + letter to my future self • What went well this year, what didn’t, and what I learned • How to get intentional about the year ahead • Why most of my “future letters” end up manifesting 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

In today’s festive-but-very-real episode, I’m breaking down how to host Christmas without the chaos… or the overspending. Especially if you’re doing it in a smaller home or it’s your first Christmas in a new place. I’m sharing the exact things I picked up from shops like The Range, Dunelm, B&M, Home Bargains and Aldi, and what genuinely made a difference to creating a cosy Christmas atmosphere without blowing the December budget. Expect honest talk about what you actually need as a host vs. the Pinterest-perfect things Instagram convinces you to buy. We’ll chat through: ✨ Budget-friendly décor that elevates your space for less ✨ Money-saving tips like planning ahead, using what you already have, and asking family to bring small bits (biscuits, snacks, drinks anything that helps!) ✨ Hosting when your kitchen isn’t huge and how to avoid Christmas-day chaos ✨ Realistic timelines for cooking, cleaning, prepping and not losing your mind in the process Plus, I’m sharing the games we’re playing this year, including the family quiz I’m hosting and a Christmas music quiz that always ends in tears of laughter. It’s practical, funny, stress-saving and perfect for anyone hosting Christmas for the first time or just wanting a calmer, cosier festive day. 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

I’m engaged! 💍 In this episode, I’m taking you through every magical detail of the day Nathan proposed in Tromsø, Norway, from the stunning views to the moment it all happened. It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime days that I’ll never forget, and I’m so excited to relive it with you. I’ll be chatting about how I felt in that moment (spoiler: lots of tears), how we celebrated afterwards, and what’s next for us. From wedding planning to how life feels now as fiancés. Main Topics: • The lead up to the proposal • Did I know it was happening?!?! • How the day unfolded (in alllll the detail) • Wedding planning so far (the good & the confusing) • What's to come for our future wedding! Invite list + destination This episode is super personal, cozy, and full of love so grab a cuppa and settle in for a proper chat 🎧  🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

This episode is extra special… it’s our first Christmas in our home!! The Christmas we thought we’d have last year, but life (& house delays) had other plans. Looking back now, I’m actually grateful for the wait, because it taught me patience, trust, and how timing always works out exactly as it’s meant to. In today’s cosy, festive chat, I’m sharing what it feels like to finally experience the Christmas we dreamed of: decorating our space, creating new traditions, soaking up the magic of having a place that feels truly ours, and the wholesome moments that make this year feel different. I’m also chatting about our plans for hosting, how it feels to transition from “going home for Christmas” to being the home people come to, and why this season feels the calmest, coziest, and most meaningful one yet. If you’re celebrating your first Christmas in a new home, this episode is for you ❤️🎄 Main Topics: • Last year’s delays + what they taught me • Decorating our home for Christmas • New festive traditions we’re starting • Hosting + becoming “the home” • Why this Christmas feels peaceful, grounded, and full of gratitude 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

In this episode, I’m getting real about what it actually looks like building my dream life.. the highs, the doubts, the messy middle, and everything in between 💭 I’ll chat about the journey from my 9–5 to full-time content creation, the goals I’m working towards, and the mindset shifts that have completely changed how I see success. This one’s personal. Think of it like a heart-to-heart over coffee about chasing dreams, finding purpose, and staying grounded through it all ☕️ If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or unsure of what’s next, this episode is your reminder that building your dream life isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress, faith, and trusting your timing 🤍 Main Topics: • What “building my dream life” really looks like behind the scenes • How I transitioned from a 9–5 to working for myself • The daily habits and routines that keep me grounded • The reality of building a brand and staying motivated • The importance of mindset, self-belief, and patience 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

In this episode, I’m sharing everything about our P&O cruise around Norway, from the breathtaking Fjords and Northern Lights to what it’s actually like living on a ship for days on end! 🇳🇴 ✨ I’ll chat about what surprised me most about cruising, the pros and cons, and how it felt to wake up every morning to a brand-new view. I’ll also spill on what we really thought about the food, the excursions, and the overall vibe onboard. The honest, unfiltered truth about travelling Norway by sea. Whether you’ve always dreamed of doing a Norwegian cruise or you’re just curious what it’s like, this episode’s a relaxed, cosy catch-up filled with travel inspo, laughs, and my favourite memories from the trip📍 Main Topics: • What a cruise around Norway is really like • The best ports, sights, and excursions • Cruise life.. expectations vs reality • Tips if you’re thinking about booking a Norway cruise • My favourite moments from the trip (and the ones that didn’t go to plan!) 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions. Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec  

This week, I’m getting real about something that massively impacted my confidence.. my skin. From sudden breakouts to feeling scared to show up on camera, I’ve been through it all. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly what triggered my skin issues, how they affected me as a content creator, and the real routines, products, and mindset shifts that is (still) helping me heal inside and out. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt defeated, this one’s for you. Let’s talk self-worth, confidence, and learning to love yourself no matter what your skin looks like 💕 🎧 Listen now and grab your cuppa. This one’s a heart-to-heart. 🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

This week, we’re getting deep and personal. I’m opening up about my past relationships the toxic patterns, the lessons, and how I finally found self-worth before meeting Nathan. For years, I kept attracting the same type of person, the same red flags, and the same heartbreak until I realised the common denominator was me and that I needed to raise my own standards and vibrational frequency 💫 In this episode, I talk about the power of self-love, holding boundaries, and how everything changes when you finally know your worth. Whether you’re single, healing, or in a relationship that’s testing you.. this one’s for you. ✨ We’ll chat about:• Breaking toxic cycles and patterns• The moment I realised I was the problem and the solution• Building real self-worth before real love• What a healthy relationship feels like after chaos• How Nathan came into my life when I finally aligned with peace Grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let’s talk about love, lessons, and levelling up 💞 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am!Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | or wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod💌 Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. 🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Sometimes it’s easy to look at someone’s career online and think it just happened overnight but behind every pivot is a story.. In this week’s episode, I’m sitting down for a chat about my career journey so far from my early days as a support worker, to studying psychology at uni, and how that eventually led me into the world of UGC, wedding content creation, and building my personal brand. If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck, or unsure what your next move should be, I hope this episode reminds you that every step (even the messy ones!) leads you somewhere meaningful ✨ Main Points:• My early career in support work and what it taught me about people.• Why I chose to study psychology and what I actually took away from it.• How I discovered the world of UGC and turned it into a full-time career.• The story behind Wedding Content Girlies and building a personal brand online.• What I’ve learned about following your intuition and creating a life you love. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast on:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | or wherever you get your podcasts 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Insta:@thehomestretchpod 💌 Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial or career advice — please always consult a professional before making major decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Conveyancing.. the word every first-time buyer hears, but very few actually understand (including me when I first started). What are solicitors doing behind the scenes? Why are they constantly asking for more forms, ID, and documents? And what’s really slowing everything down?   In this episode, I’m breaking down conveyancing in plain English so you finally know what’s going on. Main Points: • What conveyancing actually is and why it’s essential in the home-buying process. • Step-by-step of what your solicitor is doing behind the scenes. • Why they ask for endless ID, forms, and documents (and why it matters). • Common bottlenecks like contract pack delays or management packs for leaseholds. • What to do if your solicitor is slow at replying and how to keep the process moving.    🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧   📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod   Work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

⏳ One of the most frustrating parts of buying your first home is not knowing how long everything actually takes. From getting your offer accepted to finally holding the keys, the process can feel never-ending. In this episode, I’m breaking down the full home-buying timeline step by step so you know what to expect and when it’s time to chase. Main Points: • The average timeline from offer accepted to completion. • What happens at each stage: mortgage application, searches, surveys, exchange, completion. • What’s considered “normal” waiting vs delays worth chasing. • How to manage expectations (and your stress levels) during long waits. • Practical tips to reduce bottlenecks and keep the process moving forward.    🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod Work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

📄 You’ve got your mortgage offer… but what does it actually mean? And more importantly, what should you be looking out for in the small print? In this episode, I’m breaking down the key parts of a mortgage offer so you can understand exactly what you’re signing up for and avoid any nasty surprises before completion.   Main Points: • What a mortgage offer really is and when you’ll receive it. • Key terms buyers often skim past: fixed vs variable rates, product fees, and early repayment charges. • Red flags to watch out for in the offer document. • What happens if your circumstances change (like job, credit score, or deposit) before completion. • How to read your offer with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you might be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬   🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧   📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod Work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Searches and surveys might not sound exciting, but they’re one of the most important parts of the home-buying process. They can uncover hidden issues, protect you from nasty surprises, and ultimately save you a lot of money and stress. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what they are, why they matter, and what to expect when your solicitor orders them. Main Points: • The difference between local authority searches, environmental searches, and drainage/water searches • How long searches typically take and why they sometimes cause delays • What red flags might show up in a search report • The difference between a mortgage valuation and a HomeBuyer Report • Which type of survey first-time buyers actually need (and which they can skip!) 📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you could be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! 💬  Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & Instagram: @thehomestretchpod Work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Good communication is essential in the home-buying process, and it can make all the difference between smooth sailing and endless delays. In this episode, I’ll share tips for improving communication with sellers, solicitors, and estate agents, and how to advocate for yourself at every stage of the process.   Main Points: • The importance of being clear and assertive with estate agents and solicitors. • How to spot red flags in communication with professionals. • How to remain calm and patient when communication breaks down. • Practical strategies for keeping everyone on the same page to avoid delays. • The role of boundaries and expectation-setting in smooth communication.   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail over at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you might be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & IG: @thehomestretchpod 💌 Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

We almost lost our house over a Lifetime ISA mistake.. LISAs are an incredible way to boost your first-home savings, but nobody tells you how strict the rules really are and how badly it can go wrong if you get the timing wrong. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down our near-disaster with a LISA withdrawal, and exactly what you need to know to avoid the delays, stress, and confusion we faced: • What a Lifetime ISA (LISA) actually is, and why we chose it • How we messed up the LISA withdrawal and caused weeks of delays • Why timing matters so much with LISAs, and how to avoid the trap • Key lessons from our experience that every first-time buyer should know • The pros, cons, and rules you need to understand before using a LISA If you're thinking of using a LISA (or already are), this episode could literally save your timeline. Hit play and make sure you’re prepared 🎧   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail over at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you might be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok & IG: @thehomestretchpod 💌 Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

You’ve got the keys… now what?   Before the boxes are unpacked and the furniture arrives, there’s something way more important to do: clear the space and set the energy for the life you’re about to create 🫶   In today’s solo episode, we’re diving into the soulful side of moving in, from clearing out stagnant energy to setting beautiful, aligned intentions for your new home: • How to energetically reset your space before moving anything in • Simple rituals for clearing out old energy (no sage required.. unless you want to!) • How to set intentional goals, habits and vibes for your home • Little things I did to make my new space feel peaceful, welcoming and like mine • Why this emotional and energetic work is just as important as painting the walls This episode is your permission slip to slow down, breathe deep, and step into this next chapter with intention ✨   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail over at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you might be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬   🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am!   subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧   📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod   work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Mortgages can be confusing when you’re just starting out.What’s a product fee? Is your overdraft a red flag? Do you really need a large deposit? This week, I sat down with Tay Farrid, a Mortgage Broker studying to become a Wealth Management Advisor. And let me tell you, he breaks it down in the most calm, clear and honest way!   If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by all the financial jargon or you’re not sure where to start, this episode is packed with actionable tips and industry insight that’ll help you feel one step ahead in your buying journey.   You’ll Learn: • The very first thing you should do before even thinking about a mortgage • What affordability checks really involve (and how to feel confident going into one) • Mistakes first-time buyers make and how to avoid them • How self-employed buyers can prepare and improve their chances of getting approved • What to look out for in the fine print of mortgage deals   🎧 Main Talking Points: • The truth about deposits in 2025 and if “bigger is always better” • What actually causes a rejection after getting an Agreement in Principle • How lenders view Buy Now Pay Later, credit cards, overdrafts & more • Why speaking to a mortgage broker gives you access to more than one lender’s deals • Is now a good time to buy?   Plus Tay’s honest take on the 2025 market 📣   Support Our Guest, Tay Farrid! Tay shared so much value and wisdom in this chat, go give him a follow and reach out if you’re starting your home buying journey! 📍Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financewithtay/ 📩 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mortgage.news.with.tay 🌐 Website: www.murfittwealth.co.uk Let him know you heard the episode, he’d love to support you on your journey!   🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am!   🎧 Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | or wherever you get your podcasts 📱   Come say hi on TikTok: @thehomestretchpod 💌   Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

If you’re a first-time buyer in the UK, you’ve probably heard the words deposit, exchange, and completion thrown around a hundred times… but what do they actually mean? In this episode, I break down each stage of the home-buying process in simple, no-nonsense terms so you can finally understand what happens when. Topics I cover: 💰 What your deposit really is (and when you actually pay it) 🖊️ What exchange of contracts means and why it’s the point of no return 🏡 What happens on completion day (aka the day you get the keys!) 🚨 Common mistakes buyers make at each stage — and how to avoid them   By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident navigating one of the trickiest parts of buying your first home!   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you could be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬   🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am!   subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧   📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod   work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Buying a home isn’t just a financial commitment, it’s an emotional rollercoaster too. From stress and uncertainty to overwhelm and self-doubt, this episode is your reminder that it’s totally normal to feel all the feelings during the process. In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing how to manage the emotional side of buying your first home, including: • How to set realistic expectations at each stage • Communicating with your partner or loved ones through the chaos • How to deal with the “legal limbo” and waiting anxiety • How to find emotional support without feeling like a burden • How to celebrate small wins, even when it feels like nothing’s happening   If you’re deep in the process, feeling stuck, stressed or spiralling… this episode is your emotional reset. Hit play, take a breath, and know you’re not alone 🤍   📞 Got a wild, funny or frustrating story from your home-buying journey? Leave me a voicemail over at speakpipe.com/thehomestretchpod and you might be featured on a future episode of The Home Stretch Hotline! I’d love to hear from you 💬   🔔 don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am!   subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧   📱 come say hi on TikTok & Insta: @thehomestretchpod   work with me 💌 thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   DISCLAIMER: Everything discussed in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice, so please consult a professional before making any financial decisions.   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec

Mortgages can feel like a total minefield when you're buying your first home. Fixed or variable rates, brokers vs banks, credit scores, deposits… where do you even begin? In this episode, I’m joined by mortgage advisor Dan Bates, who’s here to break down the entire mortgage process in simple, stress-free language. Whether you're months away from applying or knee-deep in Rightmove searches, this chat is packed with real talk and expert tips to help you feel actually ready to get that mortgage offer. 🎧 Main Talking Points: • What mortgage advisors actually do (and how they get paid) • How to prep your paperwork and spot the red flags in a mortgage deal • Is now a good time to buy, or should you wait? Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or just want someone to explain things in simple terms, this episode is a must-listen for every first-time buyer. You’ll Learn: • How to know if you’re mortgage-ready (and what to do if you’re not) • The difference between fixed vs variable rates • Why credit scores matter • Common mistakes first-time buyers make and how to avoid them   📣 Support Our Guest, Dan Bates Dan was kind enough to share his time and expertise, if you found this episode helpful, please go and show him some love! 📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themortgage.advisor 📍Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themortgage.advisor/ 🌐 Website: https://www.theonlinemortgageadvisors.co.uk/ 📩 Book a free chat: https://linktr.ee/themortgageadvisor Let him know you listened and found the episode helpful, it means the world!   🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & hit the bell for new episodes every Monday at 11am! Subscribe to the podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 📱 Come say hi on TikTok and IG: @thehomestretchpod   💌 Work with me: thehomestretchpod@gmail.com   🎵 Music: Jazzy Night by Audio Library Beats Group Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/audio-library-beats/jazzy-night Music promoted by Audio Library: https://youtu.be/GNV-X6h9Hec