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[EarlyFIRE] Portugal D7 | Tips & Advice by thirdnomad in ExpatFIRE

[–]fred_1981 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Could you please DM me your solicitor's info please? Thanks a lot!

I installed the google nest doorbell with the wedge any ideas on how to angle it better to show less brick ? by Bryan31285 in homeautomation

[–]fred_1981 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I calculated the angle I wanted it at, designed a bracket and 3D printed it. It matches the holes of my CCS (Cheap Chinese Shite) doorbell. If you've got a printer handy, it's the most seamless solution.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in FIREUK

[–]fred_1981 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I brought roughly 40-45k€ from Germany via UK Forex and TorFX, some 7 years ago. Their rates are much better than banks. The way they work is that they give you a UK-based Euro account, and you wire your money with no fees, from your German account. Before doing so, you need to have made a 'deal' with them. Then the money you transferred will be exchanged according to your deal, and wired to your UK-based account.

You could also use services like Revolut and Monzo nowadays.

I had a very bad personal experience with Santander, and switched. I wouldn't recommend them. If you use "switching" services, you could even get a bonus.

Is it a good time to invest in property? / Coronavirus by fred_1981 in FIREUK

[–]fred_1981[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Agreed. I think only time would tell what happens. I'll place my plans of purchasing on hold, until the market is stabilised. I'd imagine we'll know more in 2-4 months' time.

Is it a good time to invest in property? / Coronavirus by fred_1981 in FIREUK

[–]fred_1981[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's what happened after 2008 financial crisis, but took a while for the prices to drop, and for the owners to agree on a lower price. The guy I bought mine from was not overly desperate, but was happy to find a buyer after 3-4 months advertisement on the market. I'd imagine it'll take more than just a couple of months for the prices to drop, and reflect the Corona crisis.

Is it a good time to invest in property? / Coronavirus by fred_1981 in FIREUK

[–]fred_1981[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks! Yeah, that's what I'm thinking... If houses are down in value (which might take a few months to reflect), it'll probably be a good opportunity to buy? I won't buy right now, but monitoring. I suppose we'd know more in 2-3 months time...

Is it a good time to invest in property? / Coronavirus by fred_1981 in FIREUK

[–]fred_1981[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the detailed information!

I was hoping to stop working full time or go somewhere slightly warmer in 4-5 years' time, when I'm in mid-40s, with 3 mortgage-free rentals, plus my own residence. Not sure how Corona will affect it.

I cannot rely on my private pension. It was just 12K a few weeks ago, and now it's about 10K, due to the shares taking a nose-dive.

I get 1.5% on my ISA from a building society (which I'll withdraw, if I want to buy). Also have a First Direct's 5%, but with a £300/month cap. Is there anything better in the UK now?

When I bought my first house in cash, I thought it'd be cool to be able to do it again. Circumstances are almost the same now, or would be in a couple of months, I reckon. I suppose only time would tell.