24 November 2022

Property pitfalls for holidaymakers

Do you always lock your windows before going on holiday? If not, you’re not alone. A new survey1 has revealed some of the bad holiday habits of UK homeowners.  Locked out  Two in five respondents don’t check their windows are locked, with a similar number failing to check the doors. Just under half make sure […]

24 November 2022

Pensions round-up

Recently released research1 suggests UK consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about pensions and prepared to take a greater role in preparing for retirement. Other research2, however, shows significant sums are still sat in ‘lost’ pensions, while experts have warned about potential pension-related problems as the cost-of-living crisis bites.  Pensions knowledge improving  A survey conducted by […]

18 November 2022

Autumn Statement 2022

“We will face into the storm” On 17 November, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt delivered his fiscal plan to “tackle the cost-of-living crisis and rebuild our economy” stating that the government’s three priorities are “stability, growth and public services.” The Chancellor struck a defiant tone during the key fiscal event, saying he was “taking […]

16 November 2022

Mortgage market review

It’s been a busy couple of months in the mortgage market, with rising interest rates and new product ideas dominating the discussion.  Rate rises  Following the Bank of England’s decision to raise interest rates, two million mortgage holders with standard variable rates or tracker mortgages are already facing higher repayments.  Bank Rate increases will also […]

16 November 2022

Good to know – IHT share loss relief

In challenging market conditions, it’s likely that some bereft individuals will inherit investments that have fallen in value.   Through IHT share loss relief, people inheriting can be entitled to claim a tax rebate when they sell certain qualifying investments at a loss. Strict rules, criteria and exemptions apply however. For example, to be eligible for […]

9 November 2022

A move towards ‘living legacies’

Over-55s are increasingly looking to help their families out financially while they are still alive, rather than leaving everything in the form of an inheritance. Research1 has revealed a trend towards ‘living legacies’, due to increased life expectancy pushing up the average age at which younger generations inherit from their parents. People born in the […]

9 November 2022

Small steps to sell with success

Planning to sell? You already know there’s a lot of big things to think about. But don’t neglect the small details either. Seemingly minor changes can make a significant difference to how a property is perceived and, ultimately, its sale price. Here are three top tips for putting the finishing touches to your home before […]

2 November 2022

All eyes on COP27

As the world continues to emerge from the pandemic, although other headwinds exist, governments, businesses and the financial world are refocusing on what the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) describe as ‘the greatest threat to the wellbeing of humanity and to the ecosystems on which we depend’ – climate change.  According to the PRI, a […]

2 November 2022

Children’s pensions: Saving for their future

It may be an old adage, but definitely one that remains true – it really never is too early to start a pension. So, if you’re looking to help secure the long-term financial future of your child, or grandchild, saving into a pension on their behalf may be a suitable option worth considering, in addition […]

2 November 2022

More home moves than pre-pandemic

The number of home movers fell 35% year-on-year in the first half of 20221, a drop that was widely expected following last year’s uniquely busy pandemic-influenced market.  Still high  In total, 172,510 people moved house in the first six months of this year, well below the 266,270 who moved in the first half of 2021. […]