New year, new home?
If you’re hoping to move home in 2026, get your finances in good shape first Remember to factor in moving costs, such as solicitor fees, surveys, removals and Stamp Duty Take stock of possessions, create a room plan and keep track of boxes and their contents. If you’re hoping to make a move in 2026, here are some top tips to help you plan ahead and beat […]
House Prices – what to expect in 2026 and beyond
Regional growth will be uneven, with the strongest price rises expected in more affordable northern regions Early years of low growth may help first-time buyers before the market strengthens from 2027 onward Buy-to-let activity may rise, but regulation and taxation will continue to limit overall investor appetite As 2026 begins, many homeowners and would-be movers […]
Looking ahead: A new year, a clear plan
As 2026 begins, thoughtful financial planning remains essential for navigating change and securing long-term goals. Reviewing investments, tax strategies and pensions ensures your financial plans stay aligned with changing circumstances. Now is the perfect time to take stock and start the year with a clear financial plan. We’d like to take a moment to thank you for your […]
Planning with purpose in 2026
Providing for family is the strongest motivator for UK adults when it comes to financial planning. Find a balance between what you value, what you need and what gives you a sense of purpose. Mental wellbeing plays a vital role in financial confidence – we’re here to help you define your financial purpose. As we welcome 2026, it’s the […]
It’s that time of year again – consider your end of tax year planning
Consider using ISA and pension allowances before they reset to maximise long-term, tax-efficient growth Reviewing CGT, dividend and gifting allowances now could reduce unnecessary tax liabilities Early planning helps protect wealth, improve cash flow and avoid rushed decisions before the tax year ends As the end of the 2025/26 tax year approaches, it’s the ideal time to ensure you’re making the most of tax-efficient […]
FTBs looking to buy in cities
First-time buyers increasingly prefer city living, reversing the pandemic’s ‘race for space’ Dundee, Edinburgh and Doncaster show the largest rises in FTB city enquiries London demand has dipped, highlighting the impact of high house prices on affordability More FTBs are setting their sights on city living, new data reveals1. The analysis compared FTB enquiries between January and […]
Owning a home offers significant savings opportunities
Owning a home can create significant long-term savings when compared with renting Renters in London and Bristol are missing out the most on savings opportunities Despite challenges, many younger renters are optimistic about owning their first home Research1 has compared the average cost of buying versus renting, highlighting the investment opportunities that homeowning can offer. By […]
Life insurance – time to redress the gender gap
Women are less likely than men to hold life insurance or understand its benefits Many women have not been educated about life insurance and believe they can’t afford it Life insurance provides financial support to loved ones if the policyholder dies during its term Women are falling through the cracks when it comes to life insurance. According to a […]
In the news
Buyers are willing to pay a premium for a home with a sea view One million UK homes have risen in value by at least 50% since 2020 6.5 million homeowners in the UK have some regrets about the property they bought Buyers pay more for a sea view Buyers are willing to pay a premium for […]
Buying later and borrowing longer
More first-time buyers are purchasing homes later in life to manage affordability challenges Longer mortgage terms help keep monthly payments manageable but extend debt into later years Professional guidance can help buyers select the most suitable mortgage for their circumstances Getting onto the property ladder has become harder in recent years and that’s had a noticeable impact. People are […]