Prospect of rate cut moves closer While last month once again saw the Bank of England (BoE) leave interest rates unchanged at a 16-year high, the minutes to the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting signalled a notable change in tone and economists now view a rate cut as the most likely outcome when the […]
Author archives: matthew
Get mortgage-ready this summer
Do you have hopes to buy? Whether you’re looking to get on, move up or down the ladder, your property dreams are possible with a little preparation. Here’s how you can get yourself mortgage-ready this summer. Check your credit score Lenders will inspect your credit report for evidence that you can meet the mortgage repayments. […]
Brighter days ahead
This year, summer brings hope of a better financial future as inflationary pressures recede and the economy continues to grow. It could therefore be an ideal opportunity to prioritise a range of pension-related issues in order to ensure brighter days do lie ahead. Pension withdrawals up Many people have faced significant financial challenges over the […]
Residential Property Review – June 2024
Housing market update The UK housing market continues to show modest signs of recovery, according to the latest data from Savills. Despite some house price growth, a significant upturn is considered unlikely until mortgage affordability improves. Buyer activity continues to improve, as the number of sales agreed in May was 10% higher than the 2017-2019 […]
Commercial Property Review – June 2024
Commercial trends of 2024 Flexibility, sustainability and diversification are key trends in the commercial property market so far this year, according to PropertyWire. Flexible workspaces are increasingly in demand, reflecting the shift to hybrid working since the pandemic. Co-working spaces, quality buildings and adaptable offices are more popular, as are those in prime locations. Sustainability […]
Get the right house value with a survey
Nobody wants to pay too much for their home. During the home buying process, there are many causes of stress. Making sure you don’t overpay doesn’t need to be one. That’s because getting the right survey can give you peace of mind that you are paying a fair price. What is a survey? A survey […]
Adopting an Olympic mindset when investing
The countdown is well and truly underway to this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris when we are all sure to be watching in awe as the world’s leading elite athletes showcase their talents. And investors could boost their chances of success by emulating an Olympian’s mindset and thereby improving their financial wellbeing. Attributes […]
Most over 55s have no plans to downsize
Only one in seven non-retired homeowners over 55 plan to downsize after they stop working, a new study1 suggests. In a poll of 2,000 adults over the age of 55, half said they plan on staying in their current home after they retire. For those aged 71 to 75, the figure is 68%. No hassle, […]
AI & scams – don’t get caught out
Although there is much excitement surrounding the advent and development of artificial intelligence (AI), there are some serious risks involved – namely, the prevalence of scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Types of scams There are a few main scams to be aware of: Who is at threat? Everyone risks falling victim to […]
Reaching self-actualisation in retirement
To enjoy a financially secure retirement, it’s important to spend time doing some in-depth thinking well in advance to determine your goals and requirements in order to achieve the lifestyle you dream of. You need a robust financial plan. When thinking about the income you’ll need in retirement, many people find it helpful to think […]