'We might move home to get a better deal'

Bargain hunters: Tim Hawk and Anita Kinniburgh think they may be paying too much

13 April 2012

TIM HAWK is considering moving into a new flat to take advantage of plunging rents in London.

The 26-year-old investment banker started renting a two-bedroom apartment in Clapham with his girlfriend, Anita Kinniburgh, 25, in July.

Rent was £1,550 a month when they moved in, but experts estimate it would now be nearer £1,460 a month - a decrease of five per cent.

Mr Hawk said: "Now rent is getting so much lower, we may be paying more than we should be. I think I would consider moving to take advantage of that."

He said it was fortunate the couple did not buy a flat as they are making huge savings. A repayment mortgage on the flat he is now renting could cost £2,769 a month based on a fixed rate of 6.88 per cent and a value of £440,000.

"I'm thankful I'm not lumbered with a huge mortgage and a place I wouldn't be able to sell."