Approach mortgages for over-65s positively
Are you over sixty-five and finding it challenging to get a mortgage? You’re certainly not alone, according to recent findings1. With the number of people in the UK aged over 65 soon expected to surpass those aged 18 and under, just 37% of potential borrowers aged 65 and over are offered the size of loan […]
Personality traits of the self-made millionaire
In the first study of its kind1, researchers have distinguished the personality traits most common among self-made millionaires versus those who have inherited their wealth. The study analysed a sample of wealthy individuals according to the so-called ‘Big Five’ personality traits: • Openness (curious vs cautious) • Conscientiousness (efficient vs disorganised) • Extroversion (outgoing vs […]
Demand for energy-efficient properties strengthens
A growing proportion of house hunters are focusing on energy-efficient considerations when looking to buy a new home. Research1 suggests that rising energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis are having a significant impact on how buyers prioritise various desirable features, with an increasing number focusing on aspects related to energy efficiency. Key features Cavity wall […]
Sandwich generation: how are you?
The sandwich generation are certainly used to challenges and putting other people’s needs before their own. However, cost-of-living challenges look set to heap further pressure on this group which makes it vitally important they seek advice before taking any rash decisions which could sacrifice their financial futures. Stiff upper lip Research1 suggests that, although many […]
Considerations when buying new builds
Demand for new builds is on the up due to more people seeking energy efficient homes, but research1 has revealed other factors people wish they had considered before purchasing a new build. Top of the list (36%) is researching the property manager as well as the developer, closely followed (35%) by checking out the parking […]
Divorce and your pension – a supporting role
Research1 suggests that nearly one in five people are, or will be, financially worse off due to their divorce, and that many divorcees struggle to make ends meet after separating from their partner. The statistics make for worrying reading. A third of divorced respondents said they were forced to take money from their savings to […]
Good to know – JISA to adult ISA transition period
Currently a Junior Individual Savings Account (JISA) can be held by a child until the day they turn 18, the annual allowance for which is currently £9,000. On their 18th birthday, the child can open an adult stocks and shares ISA, the annual subscription which is currently £20,000. All pretty straightforward. Now, for the interesting […]
Five common mortgage myths
Getting a foot on the property ladder is an aspiration that dates back generations. Unfortunately, some mortgage myths are just as old. If you’re looking to buy in 2022, it’s important to know fact from fiction. 1. MYTH: You need a perfect credit rating A bad credit history can have a negative impact on your […]
Know your pension numbers
With so many financial priorities to juggle, it can be hard to put your pension first, especially with spiralling household costs. Starting or maintaining your pension contributions is important. Whatever type of pension plan you have, you get tax relief at the highest rate of Income Tax you pay on all contributions you make, subject […]
Revisiting your IHT strategy
Latest data from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) revealed IHT receipts for April 2021 to March 2022 were £6.1bn, 14% (£0.7bn) higher than in the same period 12 months earlier. Factors at play Receipts have increased partly due to higher death rates during the pandemic, as well as due to the rise in property prices […]