“Taking the action wasn’t always easy, but we’ve got there and inflation is back to target” Data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that for the first time in almost three years, the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation had returned to the 2% target in the 12 months to May, […]
Monthly archives: June 2024
The real value of 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 […]
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 […]
News in Review
“While there was no growth in April, it’s important to focus on the broader trend” The UK economy did not grow in April, official data released last Wednesday by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed. The headline figure followed a month of wet weather, with ONS suggesting that the rain might have affected consumer […]
Investing – adopting an Olympic mindset
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 […]
No plans to downsize for the majority of over 55s
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, […]
News in Review
“As consumers gear up to spend more… there’s a brighter outlook for the coming months” Last Tuesday, figures from the latest Barclays Consumer Spend Report revealed that consumer card spending fell to a three-year low in May. As households continue to feel the squeeze, overall spending grew by just 1.0% for the month, its lowest […]
AI & scams
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 […]
Focusing on 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 […]