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Parents who want to send their children to a private school should start saving for the school fees early, a money expert says.

Rising education fees mean that parents will have to start budgeting and making savings elsewhere if they choose this route for their kids, David Kuo, head of personal finance at Fool.co.uk claims, with one way to pay for this price increase potentially being secured loans.

"Almost at the point of conception they probably need to start saving up because private school fees are accelerating at a rate that is faster than the rate of inflation for the ordinary consumer," he says.

Understanding finances and budgeting plans available will help when deciding which type of education youngsters are to receive, he adds, which may interest parents who are looking into secured loans to pay for private school fees.

Fees have risen by an average of 40 per cent over the last five years, according to research by Halifax Financial Services.

This rise is more than double the increase in the Retail Prices Index, which stands at 18 per cent.

Parents discussing their children's education may consider secured loans, where a home provides security to the lender in case of non-repayment.

A drop in demand for flights could mean more expensive fares for people wanting to get away from it all this winter, it is claimed.

This decrease in passenger demand may lead to airlines reducing the number of flights, which in turn will raise the price of tickets for consumers, industry affairs manager for the Air Transport Users Council James Fremantle says, with secured loans a potential option for homeowners to pay for a holiday this Christmas.

"It's a difficult time for the airline industry, you can tell how competitive it is; volatile fares show airlines are trying to get every last cent they can out of consumers," he claims.

Furthermore, airlines need to maintain a profit and if there is less space for passengers, firms can increase fares because of this, Mr Fremantle adds.

There was a seven-year high in the average air fare paid by business travellers in the second quarter of 2008, research by Amex found.

Ticketing restrictions, capacity limits and oil prices were cited as factors which increased air fare ten per cent year-on-year.

Secured loans could finance a family holiday this winter and the amount borrowed is repaid monthly over a fixed term agreed at the start.

Child seats should be replaced after a car crash in case they are damaged, which could affect a child's safety, it is claimed.

Over 20 per cent of parents did not believe a child seat had to be replaced after a low- speed collision, Direct Line reveals, adding that one reason why parents did not buy a new seat is because an insurer would not pay out for one.

Secured loans could help parents cover costs including car insurance and child safety measures such as a car seat.

"What might seem like a minor accident can undermine your child's safety if you are involved in a subsequent collision. Even minor accidents can weaken restraints which are critical to protecting your child in an emergency," says head of car insurance at Direct Line Maggie Game.

Motorists should check whether their car insurers will pay for a replacement seat following an accident, which could prevent future injury, she adds.

The law states that youngsters must use a child seat until they are either 135cms in height or 12 years old.

Those struggling financially may want to consider secured loans, which use a home as security.

Despite the credit crunch there are a lot of good deals on cars at the moment, says a spokesman for the Retail Motor Industry Federation, and secured loans could be an option for people looking to buy a car.

Furthermore, footfall is remaining constant for firms in the car industry, he claims.

"They [car buyers] might be paying a bit more upfront but they're going to get a good deal."

People also appear to be keeping their cars for longer, although dealers are currently offering good prices on new and used cars, the spokesman adds, which may interest those looking at secured loans for finance.

Diesel registrations accounted for 43.2 per cent of the 2008 new car market, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Limited(SMMT).

And this August was the quietest month for the new car market, with 63,225 registrations - the slowest since 1966 - the SMMT adds.

Secured loans use a home as surety and could be one way for a homeowner to buy a new or used car during the current economic climate.

Buying student accommodation can be a wise investment although potential landlords should do their research, a property expert says.

University houses have proved to be worth paying for over the past few years, claims a spokesman for property website Mouseprice, and looking into secured loans could be one way of financing student accommodation.

"The idea of investing in a student property is, in a mass-market sense, a relatively new phenomenon," he says.

However, the local market needs to be investigated and people should not expect an immediate capital gain, he adds.

Prices of houses in 23 university towns have risen more than 50 per cent in the last five years, according to the Halifax in August, which may interest those of you considering secured loans to pay for student property.

The south-east has the most expensive accommodation, the survey reveals, with Guilford topping the lost with average house prices of £363,503.

And Hull was the cheapest of nine towns with an average house price of under £150,000, with an average property worth £124,108.

People looking to buy property in a university town to let out to students could consider financing the enterprise with secured loans.

Are you fed up of working to see your money go on rising food and energy bill prices?

Well why not treat yourself this Christmas and consider visiting Scotland, where secured loans could pay for the holiday to get away from it all.

"Edinburgh at Christmas really is a sight to behold. The city sparkles in glittering brilliance as the lights of the winter wonderland illuminate Scotland's capital," spokesperson for VisitScotland Winter White campaign Gillian Thompson says.

Kids may enjoy the Santa weekend and you may consider secured loans - which use a homeowner's property as surety - to make it happen.

Are you one of the 26 per cent of parents who admitted that they had a second job to make ends meet, despite spending less time with the kids?

Or how about one of the 59 per cent who said not wanting children to miss out on cultural trips or sport lessons resulted in them spending more, as research by NS&I found.

"It is only natural that British parents should want to put their children first and make sure that they have the best opportunities available, but this is having a significant impact on their wallets," says senior savings spokesman of NS&I Tim Mack.

If you are feeling the pinch, you could consider secured loans to help financially.

Students with no home security measures, such as deadlocks on doors and windows, are ten times more likely to be a victim of burglary, research by Legal & General claims.

Full-time university pupils are more at risk from having their possessions stolen and parents may want to look at secured loans to ensure their kids' accommodation is safe.

"Just as a word of warning, students in shared accommodation should not assume that you will be covered if their laptop or ipod is stolen from their room," warns head of technical services at Legal & General Elaine Parkes.

Accommodation should be checked for security measures before being considered as a potential home and those studying for a degree should even make sure their bedroom doors are locked when they leave the room, she adds.

Correct insurance to make sure students' often expensive possessions are protected could be paid for with a loan.

Those parents with kids going to university may want to look at secured loans, which backed by a property, could pay for a good quality house.

Grandparents may want to consider getting a loan, as recent research reveals that 57 per cent of them have had to support two generations of their family over the past six months.

The current economic climate has resulted in 35 per cent of grandmas and granddads helping family out with debt, the 3GB survey by Engage Mutual Assurance found.

"As our research reveals, family members turn to each other for financial support in tough economic times, leading to increasing financial interdependencies," says 3GB spokesman for Engage Mutual Assurance Karl Elliot.

People should plan ahead and gradually save to reduce the pressure of paying living costs, he adds, but secured loans could be one way to deal with rising prices.

While 28 per cent of those surveyed helped with paying for childcare, 33 per cent said they contributed towards the home costs of family members.

Those in the north-east are more likely to rely on their grandparents' money, with 74 per cent asking for help, compared to 36 per cent in the south-west.

Secured loans could help grandparents support their family during the credit crunch and could be backed by a property which provides security to the lender.

Children learn money habits from their parents and need to have confidence in how they spend, it is claimed.

Because they have more time, youngsters can save up a nest egg before they need to touch the money, David Kuo, head of personal finance at Fool.co.uk says.

And the credit crunch provides an opportunity for parents to pass good saving skills to their children, he adds, which may include planning for secured loans.

"This is a very good learning experience for children to realise that they cannot just expect money to just continually appear, even if times are hard. If parents have to cut back so do children."

Kids could receive more than £29,300 each at 18 from child benefit payments that were invested into their child trust account, according to the Children's Mutual.

However, 29 per cent of parents questioned said they were saving the child benefit and a secured loan could help those who cannot currently afford to pay into the trust.

Secured loans are an option mums and dads may want to consider in ensuring their offspring have financial support as they get older.

In the rush to pack up your child's belongings for university, it's easy to forget about their home insurance in the midst of kettles and baked beans.

But failing to add insurance to the checklist could result in an expensive drama if your scholar's home is broken into.

Up to £1,500 worth of belongings is taken by a student when they start their degree, figures by Nationwide show.

"With the cost of tuition fees, accommodation fees and books to pay for, university is without doubt a very expensive experience for both students and parents," Nationwide's insurance director Robin Bailey says.

A secured loan could give you and the children peace of mind, not only for insurance but for paying them through their studies.

So you have found the perfect holiday and are already mentally packing your suitcase.

You have no money but putting it on the credit card will not hurt, will it?

Or you could dip into the savings you were keeping for that rainy day.

But people are being warned by Michelle Slade of Moneyfacts not to put more on the credit card than you normally do, no matter how much you want a cocktail on the beach.

"People are a lot more worse off now than they were," she says.

Rather than burn the plastic, consider getting a secured loan to whisk your family away for that much needed break.

Supporters have to foot the bill for following their favourite football team, as fuel prices continue to rise, a problem that could be solved by secured loans.

Fans have to fork out an extra 26 per cent for petrol, according to research by Virgin Money.

Portsmouth followers have to pay the most with 19 per cent of the team's supporters travelling over 5,000 miles per season, so it could be wise for Pompey fans to take out a loan.

Manchester City fans stay closer to home with 48 per cent claiming they travel less than 5,000 miles, while its rivals, Manchester United, boasts 18 per cent of fans travelling over 5,000 miles to watch their team.

"The question is, with rising ticket prices, programme costs, food expenses, merchandising and now increased fuel bills, how much more can the average punter take?," says Virgin Money's Scott Mowbray.

Football fans may stop following teams at away matches, he adds.

Rising prices has led to 26 per cent of fans saying they will cut back on games, even if they hold a season ticket.

But if you do not want to just watch matches on the TV, you could consider researching secured loans to finance you through the season.

Secured loans could help people buy a home, following the publication of figures from the Co-operative Financial Services which show buyers feel they need £19,100 saved to afford a house.

Renting is considered a waste of money by 54 per cent of buyers questioned, while 53 per cent say they sacrifice eating out now the credit crunch is upon the UK.

And half of the buyers claim they no longer go on holiday so they can afford a home.

The government and housing industry should offer clear products to help buyers "with the essential financial support needed to help them take their first steps onto the property ladder", says Victoria Drummond, operations manager of Ownhome, a scheme between the Co-operative Bank and Places for People.

However financial support is also needed for those looking at buying their second home, or even those considering investing in more property.

Further showing how people are saving money, 11 per cent of people surveyed say they have a second job to save for a house deposit.

Secured loans could provide those looking to buy a home with financial help in saving money to invest in or purchase another property.

Secured loans could take pressure off homeowners considering going back to university, after figures released by Abbey reveal that half of those questioned are prepared to sell their possessions.

Volunteering as a medical research subject is an option considered by five per cent of those studying for a degree, while union shops are worried that packed lunches will be favoured over food bought in university shops.

"Students more than ever will need to set themselves a strict budget and should ensure that they are shopping around for the best deals, this includes financial products such as the bank account they use," advises Abbey director of banking Steve Shore.

The economic crisis means that 22 per cent of the general public view selling their possessions - including on auction sites such as eBay - as a way to make money.

And Abbey found that 84 per cent of those in the UK are cutting back on non-essentials to save extra cash.

Secured loans can help students and other homeowners finance themselves, either through university or when paying for things including home renovations and holidays.

Consumers considering secured loans to help pay for a property may be interested to hear news that bricks and mortar should still be seen as a safe investment.

The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has revealed that although there is currently a level of turmoil in the market, buying property can still be a secure home for hard earned cash.

"There has been a stream of negative information portrayed in the media and despite all of the pessimisms surrounding the industry a property should still be seen as a sound investment," the organisation said in a statement.

It added that although the market is shaky at the moment, confidence will return and will then offer "substantial returns".

And in fact, because of the current turmoil in the sector, now could be a "great time" to invest in property, the NAEA claimed.

Consumers wishing to invest in a new property may wish to consider secured loans to help them cover the cost of a new home.

In news that may interest those with secured loans, there has been a slowdown in housing sales as a result indecision over stamp duty, it has been claimed.

According to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), buyers have shied away from buying houses due to concerns over whether or not they would have to pay stamp duty.

"[August] was a month of indecision and this evidently has had a profound effect on the market, as many consumers adopted a wait and see attitude whilst waiting for a decision from the government on stamp duty," said Chris Brown, president of the NAEA.

The organisation noted a drop in the number of houses for sale, the number of sales agreed and the percentage of first time buyers.

As opposed to selling up and moving on, consumes may wish to consider taking out a secured loan to help cover the cost of any renovations on a property.

Turning the temperature down in your house could save you money, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

People strapped for cash could reduce their outgoings by lowering the temperature in their home, explains Paula Owen, energy doctor at the non-profit organisation.

"You only need to heat main living areas to around 18 to 21 degrees Celsius - although it may need to be higher if there are young children, elderly or frail people in the house," she explains.

People who want to stay warm during the colder months of the year could use secured loans for just such a purpose.

Brides to be could benefit by using secured loans to fund elements of their big day, following comments from the Retail Bridalwear Association.

Philip Rathkey, secretary of the organisation, explains that given the current market conditions, people planning their big day may well be tempted to cut corners here and there.

He suggests consumers carry out research prior to their nuptials in order to find the best deal for them and also ensure they get a high-quality outfit.

Mr Rathkey also states there are a great number of scams on the internet and so recommends people visit legitimate shops in order to ensure they purchase a decent dress.

"Don't just rush for the first website that looks like it has a few cheap dresses on it," he urges.

Weddings can be expensive affairs and as such, consumers may find they can get a competitive deal to fund this via secured loans, which use a homeowner's property as surety.

Ecologically aware consumers eager to improve their green credentials could use secured loans to fund their passion, following comments from a community interest company.

Robert Lee, founder and director of UK8020, notes how microgeneration - the creation of zero or low-carbon heat and power by individuals - could have a positive impact if used widely.

"If anybody had a turbine on their roof or their house it solely depends on a renewable source of wind and it's not using anything else in terms of carbon," he explains.

At present, the technology is expensive, meaning that the "ordinary person in the street" could have issues investing in such a resource, Mr Lee adds, stating that he is sure the cost will reduce in the future.

People eager to up their green credentials now could well find secured loans - which use a homeowner's property as surety - help them to fund their environmentally-friendly endeavours.

Secured loans
could well provide parents with a way to get their children prepared for university, following comments made by Confused.com.

The price comparison site has advised mums and dads to make sure their academically-inclined youngsters take out an insurance policy to protect their belongings.

"Many insurers specialise in insurance for students, which includes cover for those living in halls of residence. This means that, although students are living with a lot of other people, they are still covered for all of their belongings, the company explains.

In addition, it suggests parents take car insurance into consideration and also think about switching their child's energy provider when they move into student accommodation to ensure they get the best deal possible.

Secured loans could provide parents with a way to fund their child's academic endeavours - as well as any other extracurricular expenses - by giving them a competitive rate due to the fact that their property will be used as surety.

Secured loans
could provide a way for people to improve the energy-efficiency of their properties, following comments from the Energy Saving Trust (EST).

Paul Owen, energy doctor at the organisation, explains that simple measures can result in big savings when it comes to paying energy bills.

He suggests sewing thermal linings into curtains and installing draught-proofing around doors as effective practices to try out.

More extensive work can result in even smaller bills, Mr Owen adds.

"Cavity wall insulation is one of the most cost-effective energy-efficiency measures you can take in the home, as it can save you around £120 each year on your heating bill," the energy doctor concludes.

A report by the Communities and Local Government committee, published earlier this year, stated the average existing UK house emitted 1.6 tonnes of carbon every year.

People looking for a way to fund enhancements to their properties could well find that secured loans provide them with a means to do so.

Secured loans could well provide people with a means to cover the cost of dental checkups and treatment, following comments made by Engage Mutual Assurance.

A study by the financial services provider indicates that 43 per cent of adults in the UK cannot afford an examination by a dentist.

The same percentage cannot cover the costs of new glasses from the optician.

Lancashire and the north-east are struggling most, with 69 per cent of people having issues keeping up with the cost of healthcare.

East Anglia is the region having the least trouble, the company explains.

Karl Elliott, 3GB spokesperson for Engage Mutual, comments: "With the cost of living on the rise, our research shows a shocking number of people struggling to pay for some quite basic family healthcare necessities."

People struggling to cover the cost of healthcare could well find secured loans provide them with the means to do so.

People with highly-strung pets could well find that secured loans help them to keep their furry friends feeling fine, following comments from Sainsbury's Finance.

The financial services provider states that it has a seen a 28 per cent increase in the number of claims linked to behavioural problems, attributing this rise to "Master Separation Syndrome".

Neal Devine, manager at the company, states: "If a couple separating have pets, their animals can also suffer from the anguish and stress caused by the breakdown.

"Cats and dogs can be very susceptible to their owner's feelings and if they sense they are unhappy they can easily become agitated and depressed."

He adds that some pet insurance policies will cover the costs of behavioural treatment as well as vet fees.

People eager to pamper their pooch or coddle their cat could well find that secured loans provide them with the means to do so.

Secured loans
could help people to cover the costs of building an extension to their property, following the publication of figures from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

According to a recent study by the organisation, 92 per cent of respondents agreed that adding an extension to a property can boost its value.

The participants in the survey believed that the addition of a new kitchen was the second most effective way to increase the value of a home.

Peter Bolton King, chief executive of the NAEA, said: "A well planned and built extension, that creates an additional open living space, could potentially increase the value of a property.

However, he noted the average price of properties in the local area will dictate the maximum price a property can achieve and urged people to carry out research before carrying out any major building work.

Secured loans could well provide the means to fund any home upgrades.

Drivers keen to upgrade their vehicle could well find that secured loans help them to do so.

A study carried out by price comparison website Confused.com revealed 1.3 million UK drivers state they have picked up bad driving habits from watching film and television characters.

Londoners were found the be the worst in terms of attempting to copy their onscreen heroes and heroines, with almost a fifth (18 per cent) claiming that watching films had a direct impact on their style of driving.

Will Thomas, head of car insurance at the company, states: "It is very concerning that so many drivers admit to being influenced by film and television stars.

He adds: "While some motorists dream about emulating the driving styles of James Bond and Knight Rider, the reality is that driving erratically and dangerously is far from astute."

People may find they are able to secure a competitive rate on secured loans as their home will be used as surety, reducing the lender's risk.

Secured loans
could well provide people with peace of mind in terms of their pet's health, following comments from a number of industry commentators.

At a roundtable discussion hosted by Sainsbury's Finance, Philip Anderson, executive director of Citigate Dewe Rogerson, explains that a number of advances have been made in animal health.

These, he suggests, could result in rises in veterinary bills and, in turn, increase the importance of taking out a pet insurance policy.

"Vets tend to be five to ten years behind human medicine, but we can now offer kidney transplants for cats so there will be lots more we can do for animals in the future therefore the cost will be likely to go up," Mr Anderson concludes.

People eager to keep their animals in the best shape possible could find that their finances become stretched and secured loans may well provide them with a means to keep their pet healthy.

Do you plan on retiring into a life of enjoyment and relaxation? Thought so.

However, according to research by Scottish Widows, this could be increasingly difficult.

The company states that among current retirees, 17 per cent of those who received a tax-free lump sum when they gave up work used it to pay off a mortgage, rather than using it for a trip to the French Riviera or a round-the-world cruise.

People eager to make the most of their golden years and visit some far-flung locations may be advised to take out secured loans to fund their globetrotting activities.

Are you feeling a bit car sick? Even when you motor's not moving?

It could be because vehicles are a breeding ground for bacteria, according to research from insurance.co.uk and Aston University.

According to the company, the inside of a typical car has 283 different types of bacteria in every square centimetre.

In some cases, E. coli, salmonella and campylobacter were found.

They say never work with children or animals, but maybe people should not drive with them either as vehicles which contained them were found to be dirtiest.

Perhaps a loan to help pay for a professional valet service would help?

Secured loans
may well have the potential to help people cover the costs of car insurance for urban motorists, following comments by Biba.

In recent days, Graeme Trudgill, technical and corporate affairs executive at the organisation, explained that motor insurance in cities is more expensive than in other areas.

He said there are a number of factors which contribute to this, as urban environments are seen by insurance providers as areas where crime, traffic and junctions where accidents can occur are more prevalent.

"The economics say it's going to be harder for [consumers] to afford it," Mr Trudgill continues.

Concluding, the Biba representative reminds drivers that insurance is necessary and the people who try to avoid paying it will be caught.

People faced with costly insurance cover costs could well find that they can get competitive rates on secured loans as their property will be used as surety, reducing the risk for the lender.

Secured loans
could help people eager to get married abroad, on the back of comments from Brides Magazine.

Thea Darricotte, executive retail editor at the publication, explains that there a number of factors which lead people to have their big day overseas.

"If you look at the weather right now, obviously there has been so much flooding, and it's a wet September, the wettest on record for a long time. I think it makes sense for people to go to a warmer climate," she adds.

Ms Darricotte notes that as well as warmer climes, foreign destinations can offer people superior products associated with wedding celebrations - such as food and wine.

Recently released data from the Office for National Statistics suggests that in 2006, there were 275,140 weddings in the UK, representing a fall of four per cent since 2004.

Secured loans could offer financial assistance to people eager to cover the cost of an overseas wedding.

Secured loans
could offer people a means by which to cover their wedding costs, in light of a poll carried out at the British Bridal Exhibition.

The survey at the event, which took place in Harrogate on September 8th, found that 61.5 per cent of people do not think the ongoing effects of the global credit crunch have affected the wedding industry.

Lawrence Goldberg, designer of Ele Weddings, which specialises in wedding fashion for men and women, said: "A bride will always want to spend the money on her wedding dress, it's her big day and as far as the bride is concerned, 'what is the credit crunch?'"

Thea Darricotte, executive retail editor at Code Nast Bride added that a wedding day is one of the most important days a person will have, noting the economic situation does not change certain aspects of people's lives.

According to You & Your Wedding magazine's National Cost of a Wedding survey for 2008, the average cost of a wedding is £20,273.

Secured loans
may be an option for the parents of children who attend private school, following comments from Best Invest.

Hugo Shaw, an investment adviser at the firm of IFAs, states that the credit crunch has caused increases in living costs - such as heating and food bills - and as such a hike in school fees is "another unwanted burden".

"Living costs, mortgage costs et cetera have shot up in recent years. Add to this the rise in school fees and it makes for a situation that is more expensive than most parents had been budgeting for," he adds.

Mr Shaw notes that the sooner parents act on this, the better prepared they will be do deal with unexpected costs.

Research carried out by Halifax Financial Services has found that school fees for private academic institutions have risen by an average of 40 per cent over the last five years.

Secured loans
could provide people with a means to brighten up their property, following comments from the National Home Improvement Council.

Andrew Leech, director of the organisation, states that one of the ways in which people can update a "drab" kitchen is to put new front doors on it.

"You can get those door fronts from most of the DIY stores, and they have the latest features on them as well such as shaker style doors," he explains.

Continuing, Mr Leech notes that new worktop surfaces can also be a sound investment for consumers looking to enhance their culinary area.

He explains that stainless steel is a popular material for use in a kitchen, but concludes by stating that such home improvements can be expensive to undertake.

Given the potentially expensive nature of enhancing a property, consumers could well find that secured loans help them to meet the costs.

This news follows the publication of research from Confused.com which suggested DIY shows on television inspire a total of eight million Brits.

Secured loans
could be a means of helping people to cope with rising costs of living, after comments made by Halifax.

Data from the financial services provider indicates house prices in Liverpool have risen by more than three-quarters (76 per cent) since the city's status as European Capital of Culture for 2008 was confirmed in June 2003.

The fastest growth has been seen in the L5 postal district - which covers Everton, Anfield and Kirkdale - with average house prices rising by 216 per cent to £76,403.

Meanwhile, the most expensive average property prices are seen in the L37 post code area - which comprises Formby and Great Altcar - with the mean cost standing at £265,157.

Chief economist at Halifax Martin Ellis comments: "Since Liverpool was designated the European Capital of Culture for 2008 five years ago, property prices in the city have risen sharply."

Those finding they are struggling with rising costs of living could well find secured loans help them to maintain the standard they are accustomed to.

Halifax recently urged homeowners to batten down the hatches as severe weather is affecting many parts of the country.

Secured loans could provide people with a means to brighten up their property, following comments from the National Home Improvement Council.

Andrew Leech, director of the organisation, states that one of the ways in which people can update a "drab" kitchen is to put new front doors on it.

"You can get those door fronts from most of the DIY stores, and they have the latest features on them as well such as shaker style doors," he explains.

Continuing, Mr Leech notes that new worktop surfaces can also be a sound investment for consumers looking to enhance their culinary area.

He explains that stainless steel is a popular material for use in a kitchen, but concludes by stating that such home improvements can be expensive to undertake.

Given the potentially expensive nature of enhancing a property, consumers could well find that secured loans help them to meet the costs.

This news follows the publication of research from Confused.com which suggested DIY shows on television inspire a total of eight million Brits.

People eager to invest in a garden for their property could well find that secured loans provide them with the means to pursue their horticultural endeavours, new research has suggested.

A study by Yorkshire Bank indicates homeowners who do not have a green space are willing to spend more than one-third of their annual salary to add one to their house.

Figures from the financial institution suggest gardens could well be a sound investment, with 90 per cent of those with them saying they use them at least once per week.

In addition, 41 per cent explain they use their green space on a daily basis.

Gary Lumby, head of retail at Yorkshire Bank, comments: "Our research shows that gardens are highly prized and with so many willing to pay a premium for outdoor space, investing in your current garden could see the value of your house grow."

Purchasing the materials and resources for a garden can be an expensive undertaking and consumers could well find secured loans help with the costs.

Secured loans
could well be an option for parents of children who attend private academic institutions, following comments from the Good Schools Guide.

Regional editor at the educational information resource Sue Fieldman states that a lot of mother and fathers with children in private schools are in a "worrying" situation.

She explains this is due to academic fees rising, fears of redundancy and incomes being affected by the ongoing effects of the credit crunch.

"They're obviously having to commit to their children's education and most parents don’t like taking their children out of school unless it's absolutely necessary," Mr Fieldman continues.

People eager to continue offering their kids a private education could well find that secured loans provide them with the means to do so.

Research carried out by Halifax Financial Services found that fees for private schools have increased by an average of 40 per cent over the last five years.

Secured loans could well be an option for parents of children who attend private academic institutions, following comments from the Good Schools Guide.

Regional editor at the educational information resource, Sue Fieldman, states that a lot of mother and fathers with children in private schools are in a "worrying" situation.

She explains this is due to academic fees rising, fears of redundancy and incomes being affected by the ongoing effects of the credit crunch.

"They're obviously having to commit to their children's education and most parents don’t like taking their children out of school unless it's absolutely necessary," Mr Fieldman continues.

People eager to continue offering their kids a private education could well find that secured loans provide them with the means to do so.

Research carried out by Halifax Financial Services found that fees for private schools have increased by an average of 40 per cent over the last five years.

People eager to invest in a garden for their property could well find that secured loans provide them with the means to pursue their horticultural endeavours, new research has suggested.

A study by Yorkshire Bank indicates homeowners who do not have a green space are willing to spend more than one-third of their annual salary to add one to their house.

Figures from the financial institution suggest gardens could well be a sound investment, with 90 per cent of those with them saying they use them at least once per week.

In addition, 41 per cent explain they use their green space on a daily basis.

Gary Lumby, head of retail at Yorkshire Bank, comments: "Our research shows that gardens are highly prized and with so many willing to pay a premium for outdoor space, investing in your current garden could see the value of your house grow."

Purchasing the materials and resources for a garden can be an expensive undertaking and consumers could well find secured loans help with the costs.

Drivers who could do with replacing their current car with a newer model may find secured loans can help.

Research by YouGov conducted on behalf of comparethemarket.com has revealed that 13 per cent of UK motorists are not intending to buy a new car this year as a result of the credit crunch.

This follows news that new car sales in August dropped by about 20 per cent compared with last year.

Jeremy Moll, an insurance expert with comparethemarket.com, said: "Many people are becoming more frugal in light of the current credit crunch and many motorists will be looking to cut back on spending during these tough times."

He added one way to cut costs was to purchase a more environmentally-friendly car.

Homeowners may find they can secure a competitive rate on a secured loan as their house will be used as surety so the risk to the lender is reduced.

People considering taking out a loan for a holiday or a car may have been hoping for a cut in interest rates today.

However, Legal & General claims the fact the Bank of England's monetary policy committee (MPC) held the base rate at five per cent will not have come as a surprise to many.

Spokesperson Stephen Smith said: "The MPC has to tread the tightrope between managing inflation and giving borrowers some slack very carefully."

Therefore, in the current economic climate it had little choice but to keep the interest rate the same, he added.

Homeowners who are looking to borrow money may benefit from comparing the rates of secured loans.

Rates of interest on secured loans can be more competitive than other options as your property is used as surety.

This means the risk to the lender is reduced and they are prepared to offer better deals.

Secured loans
could help homeowners who are faced with expensive veterinary fees.

Research from Sainsbury's Finance has revealed 1.6 million people have put a cat or dog to sleep because they could not afford to pay for surgery or ongoing medical costs.

Between 2003 and 2008 927,000 dogs and 822,000 cats were put down for financial reasons.

More than half of all vets say they have put a cat or dog to sleep because their owner could not afford the pet's medical treatment.

A further 2.5 per owners admitted they have declined a recommended course of treatment for their animals because of the associated cost.

Steve Dixon, a veterinary surgeon, said: "Vets are in business to treat and save the lives of animals not to put them to sleep because of cost.

"It can be heartbreaking for the vet and pet owner when this happens," he added.

Homeowners who are faced with expensive veterinary fees may find they can get a competitive rate on a secured loan as their property will be used as surety so the risk to the lender is reduced.

People considering taking out a loan for a holiday or a car may have been hoping for a cut in interest rates today.

However, Legal & General claims the fact the Bank of England's monetary policy committee (MPC) held the base rate at five per cent will not have come as a surprise to many.

Spokesperson Stephen Smith said: "The MPC has to tread the tightrope between managing inflation and giving borrowers some slack very carefully."

Therefore, in the current economic climate it had little choice but to keep the interest rate the same, he added.

Homeowners who are looking to borrow money may benefit from comparing the rates of secured loans.

Rates of interest on secured loans can be more competitive than other options as your property is used as surety.

This means the risk to the lender is reduced and they are prepared to offer better deals.

A new survey has revealed Brits are prepared to haggle over the price of cars and televisions but are more reluctant to drive a hard bargain when it comes to negotiating a better deal on secured loans or other financial products.

Research by CreditExpert has found 47 per cent of people in the UK would be prepared to ask retailers for a discount, but only 16 per cent would feel comfortable asking for a better rate on a loan.

The poll also found men were better at haggling than women, with the average male bargain hunter securing a £343 discount off a single product and the average female haggler saving £217.

Jim Hodgkins, managing director of CreditExpert, said people should be more willing to try and get a better deal when it comes to a loan.

He stated: "Reviewing and understanding your credit status can put you in a stronger position as lenders will sometimes give the top rates and deals to those with the best credit ratings."

Rates on secured loans can be more competitive than other options as the risk to the lender is lower.

Secured loans
could help newlyweds with the cost of setting up home, according to research by AA Personal Loans.

A study by the group has revealed that although couples plan financially for the actual wedding day, they often forget about the costs they are likely to incur once they arrive back from their honeymoon.

Half of those questioned said poor financial planning during the first 18 months of marriage put pressure on their relationship.

However, secured loans can be a cost-effective way to furnish a house, pay for holidays and even support a new baby.

Mark Huggins, head of AA Personal Loans, said: "By researching a lower interest personal loan before rushing ahead on any payment plans that retailers may offer can often make newlyweds a saving."

In other news, Travelsupermarket.com has said next year's best holiday deals will go early. Therefore, people who do not want to miss out could benefit from taking out a loan.

Some 18.4 per cent of the cars bought during the next six months will be financed through personal loans, according to new research.

A study by Sainsbury's Finance has found unsecured and secured loans taken out in order to buy new motors in the UK will total £9.14 billion between now and the end of March 2009.

However, the report also revealed the number of people intending to buy a vehicle in the next half-a-year had fallen to a three-year low.

Commenting on the research, Steven Baillie, head of loans at Sainsbury's Finance, said: "Our findings would certainly reflect the economy's current uncertainty, with one million fewer potential car buyers than 12 months ago."

Secured loans may be a better option for homeowners who are considering buying a new car as interest rates are usually more competitive than other deals because the risk to the lender is lower.

People who are unwilling to sacrifice next year's summer holiday may want to consider taking out a loan to make sure they do not miss out.

This year it has been widely reported that the average family holiday has risen in price by about £400.

Bob Atkinson from Travelsupermarket said: "The euro has strengthened significantly against the pound and therefore you get less for your pound in terms of holiday."

He added the increase in the price of fuel and the fact a lot of big tour operators have taken aircraft seats out of the market has also meant there are less cheap deals to be had.

A survey for Travel Weekly has found approximately five million holidaymakers in the UK are planning to book their 2009 summer break in the next couple of months.

Some 30 per cent of those people said they were booking this year to guarantee their first choice of destination and in order to take advantage of any early deals.

Homeowners who want to book now but do not have the money to hand may find that they can get a competitive deal on a secured loan.