24th September 2024

Your pension and the next generation

If you thought your pension was just your retirement savings then think again.  As well as ensuring your financial certainty when you want to stop working, a pension is a great way to support future generations. This is because defined contribution pensions are one of the most tax-efficient ways of passing on your wealth.  No […]

17th September 2024

What advice would you give to your younger self?

A survey1 has found that 51% of people would tell themselves to start saving as soon as they can. Meanwhile, 41% would say to take more care of their health, and a third would advise worrying less about what other people think.  How old do you feel?  The same report also asked UK adults when […]

Aberdeen is the cheapest city for FTBs

Jobs permitting, those looking to get on the property ladder may start flocking to Aberdeen, as a report has found it is the most affordable city to be a first-time buyer (FTB)1.  Under the assumption that a FTB home has two bedrooms or fewer, the average asking price for a property in Aberdeen is £102,601. […]

10th September 2024

Advice for first-time buyers

Getting a foot onto the property ladder has always presented challenges. Research suggests FTBs could currently be experiencing the most expensive conditions in 70 years1.  Who is most affected?  In the current property market, a successful first purchase often requires two high incomes plus financial support from family members. Therefore, those who are buying alone, […]

Making sure you’re sufficiently insured in your ‘middle years’

Research1 has found that people in their 30s and 40s could be slipping through the net when it comes to protection cover. The data highlights that those in this age bracket are more likely to have inadequate protection cover for their mortgage, should the worst happen.   Has your protection caught up?   Many people experience significant […]

4th September 2024

Landlords upping their EPC game 

Research has found that some landlords are improving the energy performance of their properties even though it is no longer a potential legal requirement.    Keen landlords    Last year proposed regulations for all private rental properties to have a minimum EPC rating of C were shelved. However, 37% of portfolio landlords are still upgrading their properties […]