Autumn Budget 2025
Growth forecasts rise to 1.5% this year, with steady medium-term expectations supporting economic stability and resilience Income tax, NICs and IHT thresholds remain frozen to 2031, increasing the long-term tax burden on households Cash ISA limits fall to £12,000 for under 65s but overall allowance remain the same “We are rebuilding our economy” Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves delivered […]
Residential Property Review – November 2025
Savills forecasts slow house price growth through 2026, accelerating sharply from 2027 as rates ease and economic stability improves Nationwide and Bank of England data show early recovery signals, with rising prices, stronger borrowing and increasing mortgage approvals HMRC reports rising property transactions, reflecting steady market resilience despite economic uncertainty and ongoing tax-related speculation Five-year […]
Commercial Property Market Review – November 2025
Retail investor demand continues rising sharply, supported by reduced interest rates, tighter supply and greater vendor realism in valuations M&S strengthens its UK logistics network with a major pre-let hub in Avonmouth, backed by significant long-term investment. Office take-up in Big 6 cities remains broadly aligned with five-year averages, with standout growth in Bristol and major Manchester deals Retail investment activity strengthens […]
In the news
In the summer, the government launched a consultation on the future of the State Pension age Research has found that there’s a dip in financial confidence when UK adults reach their 50s Discussing finances is taboo for many Brits, although younger generations may be pushing for change A midlife dip in financial confidence Research1 has found that there’s a dip […]
Unspent pensions to be included in IHT from 2027
Unspent pensions will be subject to IHT from 2027, changing inheritance rules significantly Double taxation risks arise, as pensions inherited post-75 may face both income tax and IHT Planning tools such as gifting, trusts, and insurance can help mitigate future IHT liabilities The government has confirmed it will move ahead with plans to include unspent […]
Women lag behind with pension savings – time to make amends
For every £1 in a man’s pension pot, a woman has just 42p Career breaks, part-time work and lower wages widen the gender pensions gap Purposeful contributions and proactive planning can help women build stronger retirement security Nearly 40% of women in the UK risk not having enough funds for a comfortable retirement, according to […]
The cost of home insurance
Average home insurance costs vary depending on property type and size The most common reasons for claiming are water damage and accidents Renewing policies early, ideally 25 days before expiry, can help reduce costs The latest home insurance statistics compiled by one industry source1 have revealed the trends and patterns of 2025. The average buildings […]
The retirement landscape – hybrid working changes the scene
Hybrid working helps employees phase gradually into retirement while supporting wellbeing Working part-time after 66 can smooth the retirement transition and boost pension savings Seek advice as pensions, investments and tax payments could all be impacted Higher productivity. Better quality of life. Greater satisfaction. These are just some of the potential benefits of hybrid working; […]
Gen Z – betting on an inheritance – time to stand on your own two feet?
Relying on inheritance to fund retirement is risky as it can’t be guaranteed Starting early with small, regular pension contributions can help you benefit long-term compounding Take advantage of employer contributions, combine pension pots and maximise tax relief Retirement can seem an age away when you’re in your twenties and thirties, but it’s never too […]
Selling through the seasons
Buyers can be swayed by seasonal features depending on when they’re buying Winter buyers prioritise warmth, so would pay more for a fireplace and insulation Summer buyers are drawn to gardens, pools and air conditioning when purchasing Thinking of putting your home on the market? The time of year you do it could affect how well your […]
