Another newbie looking for some advice

patman99

Do you really need Sky or Virgin TV services?.

Life insurance, I got cover via a joint policy to cover myself + spouse for £15 p/m through the Co-Op. However, this only pays £45k.

Buildings & contents insurance - can you obtain a combined policy?. When renewing, use comparison sites + Co-Op, Direct Line, AXA (none of whom are on such sites), then run the cheapest 5 through Quidco & Topcashback to see if you can get money back for renewing your insurance.

Mortgage - Does your provider have a cheaper product, I.E. Base rate tracker?. If you have a 'Black Horse' Estate Agency, then pop-in to see if they have an independent financial adviser. I did this, and they found me a mortgage that was £60 p/m cheaper than anything I could find myself. Also, ask about extending your term by 5 years. This should save a bit if they agree.

Mobile Phones - How many calls do you make each month?. It may be that it would be cheaper to get some PAYG sims to use in the phones once your contract is up. BTW, who are your contracts with?

Shopping - use 'mysupermarket.com', I tried them and was surprised just how much cheaper my shopping bill was at Sainsburys than at ASDA. Plus if you have a 'Maximiles' account you can earn 1 point per £1. Don't forget to search for money-off coupons on the net.

Don't forget, de-clutter. CD's and DVD's onto Play.com, books on to Amazon and Greenmetropolis (no reason why you shouldn't list the same book on both). The rest on to Ebay or Ebid.

Verbatim

Is there a chance your OH could get another job? Difficult times but if he is often not able to work due to weather conditions an indoor job might provide a more reliable income.

I can't remember if this has been suggested before but have you considered a lodger or providing a room and evening meal for a foreign student? If you're near a town or city with language schools they are always trying to find host families. In London I think they pay around £130 - £150 a week.