Economic Review – November 2025

Economic Review - November 2025

ONS data reveals the UK economy barely expanded across Q3, with the economy contracting by 0.1% in September alone  The Monetary Policy Committee voted to leave Bank Rate on hold by a 5–4 majority in November   The headline index from last month’s GfK consumer confidence survey fell two percentage points  OBR downgrades UK growth forecasts  New projections from the […]

In the news

View of people walking in hilly seaside towards resort village in the bay at sunset; swimming beach and sunset sky in background

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

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 […]

Autumn Budget 2025

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

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

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 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

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

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 […]