12th February 2025

Don’t invest under the ‘finfluence’

People are increasingly seeking financial guidance on social media. While financial influencers – or ‘finfluencers’ – can be useful in raising awareness around financial matters, there is also a darker side to the growth of unregulated advisers.  Social media age  In the UK, more than one in four people use some combination of social media, […]

In the news – Home Finance

Significant gains for homeowners over 20 years  Analysis reveals1 that UK homeowners who purchased their properties in the last 20 years have seen an average increase of £80,000 in value. In comparison, those who sold within the last year made an average gain of £65,000. Homes in high-value areas and commuter towns, including the Cotswolds […]

4th February 2025

‘Freshen-uppers’ the most desirable property type

Are you looking to move house in 2025? If so, a recent study1 has found that the most desirable property type for 49% of people is a ‘freshen-upper,’ with prospective buyers keen to personalise their new home with small scale improvements.  The days of the full ‘fixer-upper’ property are fading, as time-poor purchasers increasing look to […]

29th January 2025

A few months left to maximise your State Pension

The government is encouraging individuals to take advantage of the opportunity to maximise their State Pension by filling gaps in their National Insurance (NI) records for the period between 6 April 2006 and 5 April 2018.  By making voluntary contributions, people can potentially increase their future State Pension payments. This option is available until the […]

21st January 2025

On your agenda – end of tax year planning

As we head into a new year with hope and optimism – it’s a good time to reflect on your personal financial circumstances. With the 2024/25 tax year drawing to a close, don’t leave it to the last minute to get your finances in order – that includes using your tax-efficient allowances.  You might want […]

14th January 2025

Nurture your financial wellbeing in 2025 – get your life plans in place with smart planning

As we step into 2025, now is the perfect time to set your financial plans in order. With changes on the horizon – like many pension pots becoming subject to inclusion in Inheritance Tax (IHT) calculations from April 2027 – it’s wise to prepare early.  Financial wellbeing involves having a positive relationship with your money, […]

Record sales in 2024 and a surge expected in early 2025

In the latter part of 2024, the UK housing market experienced robust sales momentum, driven largely by higher disposable incomes and easing rates on some mortgages. What can we expect for the housing market as we enter 2025?  Last year marked the highest level of new sales since late 2020, with house prices rising modestly […]

7th January 2025

Ambitious sellers beware!

Selling a house is the biggest financial deal many people will ever make. Understandably, sellers want to get the best possible price; new research1 has cautioned, however, that aiming too high is not without risk.  Discount dangers  Analysis by Rightmove of sales over the past five years has revealed the risks associated with pricing your […]

31st December 2024

Hopeful FTBs consider buying with friend or sibling

Did you know that 46% of aspiring first-time buyers would consider buying a home with a friend or sibling to help them get onto the property ladder?1  Most people (62%) would ideally like to purchase a home with a partner; however, many have been forced to look at alternative options. The main reason for considering […]

Get into the savings habit to enhance your wellbeing

A report from UK Savings Week shows that having a savings habit improves wellbeing.  Savers on the lowest incomes were found to benefit the most from regularly putting money aside, with 53% of this group reporting that they are satisfied with their life. However, only 40% of low-income non-savers could say the same1.  Interestingly, low-income […]