If the Pen is Mightier than the Sword ...
This phrase first appeared in 1839 in a play about Cardinal Richelieu, penned by the nineteenth-century writer Sir Edward Bulwer-Lytton.
The phrase is a metonymic adage, indicating that communication (particularly the written word) [or as some would interpret it - administrative power, or advocacy of an independent press], is a more effective tool than direct violence.
The intimation here is that the "pen" via 'administrative power', or a "free" press can be used for good; for that which is...
Knock 8 Years off Your Mortgage Term by Changing the Way You Pay
This particular solution ONLY applies to Capital Repayment Mortgages
Did you know that numerous Accountants have cleared their mortgages early by simply altering the way they pay the Mortgage debt?
Why do you think customers like you typically pay back up to 3 times the amount borrowed against a Mortgage?
The answer is two fold:
- it has to do with the way Interest is calculated (typically daily), albeit the charge is applied to your Account Monthly, and
- the term. The longer the term, the...
What Do Redeemed/Cancelled Debt Instruments Look Like?
What is the Problem?
This week's question has been raised by many people including Jake from Colchester, Essex. Jake says:
"You've mentioned redemption and the need to get original documents back from the Banks. What should we do with these documents if and when we get them back?"
What To Do
When we speak about debt, the debtor should always follow the note (instrument). In other words, the debtor pays whomsoever holds the note.
Once a debt has been "paid", the associated instrument or...
Do Banks Actually Loan Money When Making You a "Loan"?
What is the Problem?
This one comes from Colin in Yorkshire, and his question is: “I’ve seen a lot of debate online about Bank loans. Do Banks actually loan anything when they make a loan?”
In order to understand the question and the answer, you are advised to engage in some homework, and learn about the creation of money: Modern Money Mechanics, the Chicago Plan (IMF Website), and the Bank of England Quarterly Bulletin 2014 Quarter 1, Volume 54, No. 1; are good places to...
Debt Tactics with Mark Cawkwell
What is the Problem?
We received an email from Joe in Huddersfield. Joe says:
"I tend to lack confidence and think it would be very helpful if you interviewed someone who has had success using your methods. I need to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that the hard work and study will eventually pay off"
What To Do
You’re not alone Joe!
We've been enticed into a game we didn't know we were playing, and to make matters worse, the ethics of the game are well and truly...
Non Dependant Status
What is the Problem?
This one comes from a member who has highlighted a sneaky trick employed by the ‘powers-that-be’ to claim council tax in a situation where it should perhaps not be paid; all because one of your family members is alternatively-abled/disabled.
Are you in receipt of Housing Benefit? Do you act as full time carer for an alternatively-abled/disabled family member? Have you paid reduced Council Tax bills in the past as a result of your circumstances?
If the answer...
Birmingham Midshires – Who Owns My Mortgage?
What is the Problem?
Mr Treanor, from Bedfordshire, contacted the show with a problem. He is trying to sell his home, and this will mean redeeming his mortgage. Unfortunately, the mortgage company doesn’t own the mortgage and therefore Mr Treanor cannot ‘redeem’ it (buy-it-back)!
In a situation like this, does Mr Treanor have to pay the mortgage company anything?
One of the great things about knowing when things are not right is being able to step in and do something about...
The Campaign To Get Businesses to Do Better Pt2
What is the Problem?
The problem is simple – many businesses treat their customers very badly indeed and well… Don’t you think it’s time we put a stop to this?
What To Do
What is all this about?
It’s about acting collectively to make business and companies realise they can no longer continue to treat customers like us like the proverbial merde.
The Outline Solution
That’s where our campaign comes into play.
Each of you have POWER. You may or may not...
The Campaign to Encourage Businesses to do Better
What is the Problem?
This one comes as the result of a conversation between Simon and Mark “How can we make businesses treat us better as customers?”
Companies exist for one reason and one reason only: to make profit for the benefit of the shareholders.
Yes, there are a few well intentioned companies which, as part of their mission statement, seek to invest in communities and or worthy projects. They may sometimes classify themselves as “not-for-profit” entities.
For the...
How Can I Create My Own Job or Business?
What is the Problem?
This one comes from Michael in Southend, and his question is: “I want to leave the Rat-Race and create a support system for myself, but I don’t know where to start; can you give me some pointers?”
What To Do
You’re not alone Michael! There are hundreds upon thousands of people who share your desire to have a vocation, rather than a job… and let’s not forget, one of the root meanings of the word ‘job’ is persecution; no big...