Mortgage Guarantee Scheme launched
The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available across the UK Lenders are insured against losses, supporting availability of high LTV mortgages When borrowing at higher loan-to-value levels, it’s important to tread carefully The government’s new Mortgage Guarantee Scheme became permanently available in July 2025. The scheme, which was part of Labour’s election manifesto, aims […]
Financial decisions – put your best foot forward
Going outdoors for an energising walk can help bring clarity when making major financial decisions Focus on your long-term goals and make sure your decisions are aligned with your risk profile Professional guidance can help you understand what’s right for you and your circumstances Perplexed by your pension? Seeking investment inspiration? Then why not head […]
Autumn housing market outlook
Buyers gain negotiating power with more homes available and improving mortgage affordability Sellers must adopt competitive pricing strategies as overpriced homes risk being overlooked Modest price growth is expected, but steady activity could sustain momentum through autumn As summer fades, the UK housing market moves into autumn with steady momentum. A high volume of homes […]
Future proofing your finances this autumn
Autumn offers a chance to take stock and review your pensions, savings and investments Establishing robust financial foundations is essential in times of economic uncertainty and elevated living costs To feel confident about your financial future, build short-term resilience and strengthen long-term security As the days shorten and the evenings draw in, autumn is a […]
Autumn Budget – forward thinking
The Autumn Budget may bring tax changes affecting pensions, IHT, savings and investments Speculation is high, but proactive planning can strengthen financial resilience ahead of announcements Reviewing contributions, allowances and inheritance strategies ensures you’re prepared for future changes As the Autumn Budget approaches, speculation is growing about what the Chancellor may announce. The National Institute […]
Homing in on the mortgage challenges facing gig workers
76% of UK gig workers face mortgage and loan application rejections despite good credit Traditional credit systems don’t reflect gig workers’ multiple income sources Expert guidance helps gig workers improve mortgage approval odds by validating diverse income Variable income streams. Multiple employers. Seasonal side hustles. This is business as usual for gig economy workers, freelancers […]
Gen X stash the cash
Gen X savers are cautious, with over £34k on average held in cash savings Less than a third also invest, risking long-term value erosion from inflation Balancing cash investments can offer better growth without excessive risk Nearly two in three Brits born between 1965 and 1980 hold ‘significant’ savings in cash, new research1 shows, while […]
Demand for second homes falls: what does it mean for local buyers and sellers?
Council Tax hikes on second homes are triggering a surge in holiday property sales In popular holiday destinations the number of properties being listed for sale has increased over 40% This shift in property ownership has the potential to impact entire communities From country cottages to seaside retreats, the second home market is facing challenges. […]
Mortgage overpayments: small sums add up
A third of homeowners are currently making overpayments on their mortgage 40% of homeowners don’t have the confidence to overpay their mortgage Most lenders allow you to make overpayments of up to 10% of your mortgage balance each year without incurring any penalties UK homeowners could collectively save £2.3bn on mortgage interest each year by […]
‘Squeezed middle’ falling into ‘protection gap’
Only 30% of those aged 30 to 34 and 34% of those aged 35 to 39 have enough life cover to protect their family Households often insure mortgages but neglect cover for children and dependents The ‘squeezed middle’ must prioritise protection to avoid future shortfalls People in their 30s and 40s are falling into the […]