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Clumsy children could place consumers under financial strain, a recently-released piece of research reveals.

In a study carried out by Abbey Insurance it was shown that just under three-quarters (73 per cent) of British homeowners have had at least one piece of furniture or other household item damaged by a young person during the last ten years. It was also indicated that the average cost to repair such a breakage or replace items stands at 140 pounds and 61 pence. And with the school holidays reported to be on the horizon, the financial services firm suggested that many people could discover that homes will be under “attack” when their children are off on vacation.

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The benefits of quality continued education cannot be understated in a culture that constantly evolving to meet new technology and business challenges. For both parents and professionals, locating a solid financial resource for further educational opportunities has become almost mandatory. Certainly, for parents the goal is to provide their children with a college education that give them more opportunities than they, themselves, had. For professionals, in business or other areas, the need to stay relevant to the changing needs within that profession prompt the search for education. Yet, in either case, the costs associated with secondary schools and technical institutes can be immense.

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The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee (MPC) has opted to leave interest rates unchanged for the remainder of this month, it has emerged.

Standing at 5.25 per cent, the base rate of interest attached to mortgages, loans and other forms of borrowing is to stay consistent until the MPC’s next meeting in early April. The announcement follows the 0.25 percentage point reductions seen both last month and in December. The rate now stands at the same level as seen in January 2006.

For many consumers the news could be welcomed, as homeowners may discover that their mortgage providers will choose not to increase their monthly repayments.

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As a homeowner you may find that you are eligible to take out both secured and unsecured loans depending on your credit history and rating. However, despite having this choice many homeowners decide to opt for homeowner loans, which are loans that are secured against the property. Homeowner loans offer many benefits compared to unsecured loans, and homeowners can take advantage of the increased levels of equity in their properties by opting for this type of loan.

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Older people are increasingly looking to travel, new research shows. In a study released by Alliance & Leicester, more than 11 million consumers over the age of 50 are planning on going abroad more often over the next five to ten years. According to the financial services firm, more than half (54 per cent) of people in this age bracket have a desire to travel regularly and take in long-haul destinations. Meanwhile, some 22 per cent of respondents are looking to go on a “once in a lifetime” holiday experience within the next decade, with a low-cost loan providing one possible way of funding such an excursion. The survey also revealed that travel is seen as a bigger priority for the over-50s than getting fit or spending more time with family and friends.

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It really is not all that hard to get a good deal on a car. Part of the trick, however, is to be informed about the process and the terms that may be thrown at you as part of the deal. The more informed you are - the better prepared you will be to get that really good deal. Here are six steps for you to follow to be able to drive away with an auto loan of your choice.\

1. Check Your Credit Score

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