Buying a property is one of the most expensive purchases many of us will ever make; yet 34 million people in the UK do not have a will1, according to Countrywide, the UK’s largest mortgage broker and property services Group.

With more unmarried couples living together and a growing number of people opting to share mortgages with friends to finance their first step onto the property market, having a will in place has never been more important. Legally, if an unmarried person passes away; their share of the property held would be inherited by his or her family rather than their partner.

Countrywide Mortgage Service has a team of Consultants based in Bridgfords branches across the North West, which are now able to offer customers the opportunity to write their will at the same time as buying their home to protect themselves and their loved ones while taking a new step onto the property ladder together.

Alex Gasteen said: “A will is the most important document you will ever own and allows you to decided who inherits your possessions, property and money. Many adults in the UK opt for life cover but do not think about writing a will until later in age or when a child is born. We’re keen to offer a complete service to ensure our customers get the best mortgage advice, comprehensive insurance protection and a first class will writing service, which provides peace of mind and ensures all your finances and assets are in order.”

Another key issue facing thousands of people is whether their will is valid. Court cases in recent years have revealed a spate of incidents where wills have not been witnessed, making them void and meaningless. Failing to update your will is also a common issue, which means your wishes will not reflect separations, new additions or extended families that have occurred since the original will was produced.

Alex Gasteen added: “Getting your house in order during a big purchase is the perfect time to write a new will or revise a current one, as changes in your circumstances could make your will out of date or invalid. A key legal requirement which makes many wills invalid is failing to ensure it is witnessed or choosing witnesses that are also beneficiaries as wills need to be correctly signed by two impartial witnesses.”