Open Question: During a recession, should we expect personal/consumer interest rates to rise or fall?

I am soon to be 30, married since July and a homeowner. In my mid-20's, I retrained to be an NHS professional and have been working two and a half years. I have made good progress and secured promotions. To move to the next level (when 5yrs qualified) I need to have a Masters and I enrolled on a distance learning course in October to try and get this sorted. However, now both my husband and I are seriously wondering if we should have a baby. We're both emotionally ready but I am concerned about ensuring that we are financially stable, particularly in the current climate with our fixed rate mortgage coming to an end. My own parents struggled hugely with finances as young parents and it didn't help their relationship. Obviously discussing this with my husband and family but would like another perspective: should I finish the MSc to secure a better job so I can afford to work part-time when the baby comes (32 having baby) or just go for it now and believe the finances will work out?

Open Question: Can you remortgage your house to lower the original mortgage debt?

From what i gather about remortgaging, you release equity on your house and you are increasing the value of your original mortgage debt. It could be to pay off credit card debts or invest into a buy to let. Well my question is: is it possible to lower the initial mortgage debt simply by remortgaging the appreciation of the house. For example, if i bought a place for 170k with a 30k deposit and since then it has risen to lets say 240k, if i remortgage with another mortgage provider can i use the capital appreciation of 70k to lower the mortgage even further? Hence, my original mortgage loan of 140k is now reduced to 70k. Is this possible or am i just dreaming?? The other thing is if the above was possible would it be best to remortgage the capital appreciation to lower the original mortgage debt or remortgage the value of the house to invest into a buy to let??

Open Question: During a recession, should we expect personal/consumer interest rates to rise or fall?

Personal, meaning mortgages, credit cards, line of credits, etc...
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