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Burnham’s first economic test: fix Britain fast — or markets will do it for him
Andy Burnham is widely expected to become prime minister later this month, and his first major economic speech was closely watched by markets because the UK is already facing high borrowing costs and fragile confidence. The immediate market reaction to Burnham’s speech was relatively calm: sterling edged up and gilt yields fell after he said…
Read MoreWhy Swindon is one of the most exciting places to buy property in the South West right now
Swindon’s average house price was £257,000 in March 2026, well below Bristol (£348,000) and Cotswold (£406,000), giving buyers a much lower entry point in a broadly similar regional market. Swindon is pushing hard on growth, with the council backing major town centre regeneration and describing the borough as a £12.7 billion GVA economy. Defence Secretary…
Read MoreThe pension inheritance tax trap: why families could lose 67% — or even more
From 6 April 2027, most unused pension funds and pension death benefits will be included in the value of a deceased person’s estate for inheritance tax purposes. This creates the risk of a “double tax” effect, where the pension may first suffer 40% inheritance tax, and then the beneficiary may also pay income tax when…
Read More🏡 Can You Get a Mortgage at 65 to Buy Your Council House?
🔑 Key Takeaways Getting a mortgage at 65 is possible — but depends on income and term length The biggest barriers are affordability and age limits, not the property itself The Right to Buy discount can often act as the deposit Equity release may be an option, but only with careful advice Family support can…
Read More🌍 How the Middle East Conflict Is Impacting UK Mortgage Rates
Key Takeaways: Middle East Conflict & Mortgage Rates Explained Global events like Middle East tensions can directly impact UK mortgage rates Rising oil prices increase inflation expectations Mortgage rates are driven by swap rates, not just the Bank of England base rate We are already seeing some lenders increase rates and withdraw deals The outlook…
Read MoreBuilding a Buy-to-Let Portfolio in 2026: Where to Start
Key Buy-to-Let Takeaways (2026) Expect to need 15–20% deposit for most buy-to-let mortgages Stamp duty now includes a 5% surcharge on additional properties Higher deposits generally produce stronger monthly cashflow Lower deposits can help you scale a portfolio faster SPV limited companies are often more efficient for multi-property portfolios Always factor in fees, maintenance and…
Read More10 Ways to Generate Tax-Free Income in the UK (Before the Tax Year Ends)
Key Takeaways: Tax-Free Income in the UK • Use your £12,570 personal allowance• Maximise ISA income and withdrawals• Use the personal savings allowance• Consider the rent-a-room scheme• Use dividend allowances and spousal planning• Review retirement income structures As tax thresholds remain frozen until at least 2031, more people than ever are paying income tax. This…
Read MoreTax Year End 2026: The Definitive Financial Planning Checklist
As 5 April approaches, the end of the tax year is one of the most important planning moments in the calendar. Every year, valuable tax allowances are lost.>Every year, investment portfolios drift.>Every year, families miss opportunities to reduce inheritance tax exposure. But 2026 is different. With pensions due to fall inside inheritance tax from April…
Read MoreRejected for a Mortgage? What to Do Next in Swindon, Cirencester or Bristol
Few things feel worse than being told “your mortgage application has been declined.” You’ve found the house.You’ve run the numbers.You thought you were fine. Then the lender says no. If this has happened to you in Swindon, Cirencester or Bristol, you are not alone — and it doesn’t mean you can’t get a mortgage. It…
Read MoreFirst-Time Buyers and Low-Deposit Mortgages in 2026: What’s Changed and How a Local Adviser Helps
For many aspiring homeowners in Swindon, Bristol and Cirencester, the challenge hasn’t just been saving for a deposit — it’s understanding whether today’s mortgage market actually works for you. Recent shifts in lending patterns mean the market isn’t just about interest rates anymore. While mortgage rates have eased and competition is rising, changes in loan-to-income…
Read MoreInheritance Tax and Farming: Making Sense of the Changes and What You Can Do Now
Over the past year, few groups have faced as much uncertainty around inheritance tax (IHT) as farmers and landowners. Since Labour announced restrictions and reforms affecting Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) in the Budget — followed by consultation, clarification, and back-and-forth — many farming families are left asking the same question:…
Read MoreIs It Time to Review Your Company Pension? Why Many SMEs Are Moving Away from NEST
If you’re an SME director, part of an HR team, or responsible for payroll, chances are your company pension scheme hasn’t had much attention since auto-enrolment first arrived. For many businesses, the decision was simple at the time: “We’ll just use NEST — it ticks the box.” Fast forward a few years, and many employers…
Read MoreWhy 2026 Is Becoming a Defining Year for Mortgages and Financial Planning in Swindon and Cirencester
By Samuel Mather-Holgate If you live in or around Swindon or Cirencester, chances are you’ve felt it already — the financial landscape is shifting again. Mortgage rates are no longer rising, lenders are quietly becoming more flexible, tax rules are tightening in the background, and households are asking the same question: “Should we be doing…
Read MoreAutumn Budget 2025: Underwhelming — and Exactly What Britain Needed
By Samuel Mather-Holgate What today’s announcements mean for your taxes, pensions, savings, and household finances. After months of noisy rumours, political kite-flying and leaks that sent markets on edge, Rachel Reeves has delivered her second Budget — and in many ways, it was underwhelming.But that’s precisely what the country needed today. With inflation proving sticky,…
Read MoreHow Expensive Is It to Have Children? A Financial Adviser’s Take on Raising Kids in the UK
By Samuel Mather-Holgate They say children don’t come with a manual — but maybe they should come with a financial statement.From the moment you buy that first babygrow to the day you wave them off to university, raising children in the UK can be one of life’s most rewarding (and most expensive) experiences. So, just…
Read MoreHow Couples Can Build Wealth Together (and Avoid Financial Tension)
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Money can be a powerful tool — but it can also be one of the biggest sources of stress in a relationship.According to the Money & Pensions Service, nearly one in three UK couples argue about money at least once a month, and almost half admit they don’t have a clear plan…
Read MoreWhy Your Mortgage and Financial Planning Should Work Together
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For most people in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol, their mortgage is the single biggest financial commitment they’ll ever make. At the same time, many families rely on financial advice for pensions, savings, and investments. But too often these two areas are treated separately, when in reality your mortgage strategy and financial plan…
Read MoreHigh LTV and High LTI Mortgages: What Borrowers in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol Need to Know
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many people, buying a home feels just out of reach. Rising house prices, especially in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol, mean larger deposits and bigger loans are needed. The good news? Lenders are beginning to re-open their doors to high loan-to-value (LTV) and high loan-to-income (LTI) mortgages. If you’re wondering whether these…
Read MoreMortgage Advice in Swindon and Cirencester: Why Using a Broker Makes All the Difference
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many homeowners and buyers, finding the right mortgage is straightforward. But for others, it can feel like an uphill battle. If you’ve ever been declined, told your case is “too complicated,” or struggled with unusual circumstances, you’ll know how stressful the process can be. That’s where we come in. At Mather…
Read MoreEmployer Responsibilities for Workplace Pensions & Auto-Enrolment – A Guide for Businesses
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Running a business is about more than sales, profits, and growth — it’s also about looking after your employees. One of the most important responsibilities you have as an employer is providing access to a workplace pension scheme. Since the introduction of auto-enrolment, all employers — from sole traders with one employee…
Read MoreBig Changes Ahead for Childcare Funding — What’s Coming in September 2025?
Back on 8th August 2024, we explained how childcare funding was expected to expand — including the move to offer 30 hours of free childcare for eligible 2-year-olds and beyond. Today, those reforms are becoming concrete. The final phase kicks in from September 2025, dramatically extending support for working families. What’s New Since Our Last…
Read MoreWhy St James’s Place (SJP) Is Facing Criticism — and What It Means for Cirencester Clients
If you’re searching for an alternative SJP adviser or financial adviser in Cirencester, now is the perfect time for a review. Especially given recent scrutiny of Stn James’s Place and growing consumer concern over fees, fund performance, and transparency. St. James’s Place (SJP), one of the UK’s largest wealth management firms, has been in the headlines…
Read MoreBank of England Rate Decision Tomorrow — What Savers and Borrowers Should Know
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Tomorrow is Bank Rate day, and the Bank of England faces a crucial decision on whether to cut interest rates again. With inflation still running above target and political and economic uncertainty elsewhere, the stakes are high — and the outcome could directly affect mortgages, savings, and cost-of-living for your clients in…
Read MoreMortgage Advice Swindon: How the Market Is Shifting — And What It Means for You
By Samuel Mather-Holgate The UK mortgage market has entered a new phase — and if you’re a homebuyer in Swindon, you may now be able to borrow more than you thought. Since Rachel Reeves’ Mansion House speech, many lenders have begun relaxing their lending criteria, especially for first-time buyers. At the same time, major rate…
Read MoreSwindon House Prices Rising: What This Means for Your Mortgage in 2025
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Swindon’s property market is making headlines: average prices now sit at £259,000 — up 3.6% year-on-year — while first-time buyers are paying around £222,000, a 3.8% increase. Rents have surged too, averaging £1,053 a month — a nearly 10% hike, say ONS. But why are prices rising in Swindon more sharply than…
Read MoreIs the Cash ISA Limit Being Cut? What Savers and Homeowners Need to Know in 2025
By Samuel Mather-Holgate As rumours swirl about the UK Government potentially cutting the annual Cash ISA allowance from £20,000 to just £10,000, savers across the country are rightly concerned. With interest rates still elevated and the cost of living squeezing household budgets, tax-free savings remain a vital tool — not just for investors, but for…
Read MoreIs Now the Time to Fix Your Mortgage Rate in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know
By Samuel Mather-Holgate In a year of economic uncertainty, many homeowners and buyers are asking the same question: should I fix my mortgage rate now, or wait? With interest rates held at 4.25% and speculation swirling about when they’ll fall again, it’s not an easy decision. Add in global tensions, rising oil prices, and inflationary…
Read MoreBank of England Interest Rate Decision: What It Means for Your Money in 2025
By Samuel Mather-Holgate On Thursday 19 June, the Bank of England (BoE) will make one of its most closely watched decisions of the year — whether to change interest rates or hold steady at 4.25%. And while the headline decision is likely to be “no change”, that doesn’t mean this moment lacks importance. In fact,…
Read MoreIs the Triple Lock Sustainable – And What Does It Mean for Your Retirement?
By Samuel Mather-Holgate The Triple Lock has long been seen as the gold standard of pension protection — a guarantee that the State Pension will rise each year to help pensioners keep pace with the cost of living. But as the UK faces growing pressure to manage public finances, many are asking: Is the Triple…
Read MoreFinancial Advice for UK Expats Living in Mallorca
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Still have UK pensions, ISAs, or other investments? Just because you’ve moved to Mallorca doesn’t mean your financial planning should stop at the border. At Mather & Murray Financial, we help UK expats living in Spain — especially here in beautiful Mallorca — stay on track with their financial goals. Why UK…
Read MoreCash ISA vs Stocks & Shares ISA in 2025: Where Should Your Money Be?
By Samuel Mather-Holgate With higher interest rates and market volatility dominating the financial headlines, many people are asking a familiar question with new urgency:Should I put my money in a Cash ISA or a Stocks & Shares ISA in 2025? Both types of ISAs allow you to grow your money free from income tax, capital…
Read MoreTrump’s Reckless Tariff Strategy: Markets in Meltdown
By Samuel Mather-Holgate The financial markets have had a rough ride recently, and if you’re watching the news or checking your portfolio, you’ve probably felt the impact. One of the key drivers of this turbulence? The escalation of trade tariffs under former President Trump’s renewed economic influence, which is sending ripples—and in some cases, shockwaves—through…
Read MoreFinancial Lessons We Learn from Mum – And How to Pass Them On
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many of us, our first experience of money came from Mum. Whether it was being handed a few coins for sweets, learning how to budget pocket money, or hearing the phrase “money doesn’t grow on trees” (more times than we can count), mums have been quietly shaping our financial habits for…
Read MoreThe Biggest Retirement Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Are You Making These Common Retirement Planning Mistakes? Retirement should be a time to enjoy life without money worries—but for many people, that’s not the reality. The earlier you start planning for retirement, the better your outcomes will be. But even if you’ve already started saving, it’s easy to fall into common…
Read MoreSwindon Property Market Update 2025: A Resilient Market with Strong Growth Potential
A personal opinion piece by Samuel Mather-Holgate Swindon’s property market has made an impressive start to 2025, with house prices rising by 2.2% over the past year, surpassing the national average of 1.9%. This consistent growth has placed Swindon among the top five best-performing areas in the South West, reinforcing its reputation as one of…
Read MoreWhat Happens to Your Money When You Die? The Essentials of Wills and Estate Planning
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Why Do So Many People Avoid Making a Will? Let’s be honest—no one likes thinking about death. It feels far off, complicated, and maybe even expensive to sort out. But the reality is that not having a will can cause serious problems for your loved ones. A shocking 54% of UK adults…
Read MoreInternational Women’s Day 2025: #AccelerateAction for Women in Financial Services
By Helen Quayle, Independent Financial Adviser for Mather & Murray Financial- International Women’s Day is on 8th March 2025: It gives me a real buzz when people reach out to me for my thoughts about women in financial services in the lead-up to International Women’s Day (IWD). It makes me realise that I must be…
Read MoreTax Year-End Planning: What You Need to Consider Before 6th April
By Samuel Mather-Holgate As we approach the end of the 2024/25 tax year on 5th April, time is running out to make the most of your tax allowances and reliefs. This is a critical period for both individuals and business owners to ensure they have maximised tax-efficient savings, used their allowances effectively, and prepared for…
Read MoreTen Reasons to Boost Your Pension Before April 2025
By Samuel Mather-Holgate As the tax year draws to a close, there’s no better time to review your pension contributions and ensure you’re taking full advantage of the tax breaks and allowances available. Even with upcoming changes to inheritance tax (IHT) on pension death benefits, pensions remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to save…
Read MoreThe Hidden Risks of Co-Habiting: What You Need to Know About Property Ownership
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many couples, co-habiting feels like a natural step in their relationship. You share a home, expenses, and perhaps even dreams for the future. However, when it comes to property ownership, co-habiting couples face a significantly different legal landscape compared to those who are married or in a civil partnership. Without proper…
Read MoreA Guide to UK Pension Advice for Overseas Residents
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Living overseas doesn’t mean leaving your UK pension behind. You could be in Malta, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Canada, France Denmark, or anywhere else for that matter, understanding your pension options is essential to secure your retirement. From transfers to benefits, annuities to drawdown, and even inheritance planning, navigating the complexities of UK…
Read MoreStart the New Year Right: Review Your Finances and Set Goals for 2025
By Samuel Mather-Holgate The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to hit refresh on your financial plans. Whether you’re aiming to save more, reduce debt, set long-term investment goals, or planning to retire, reviewing your finances at the start of the year gives you a solid foundation to work from. This guide…
Read MoreHow the 2024 U.S. Election Results Could Impact Your Investments
By Samuel Mather-Holgate It’s already been a week since the US general election and with Donald Trump elected to a second term as President of the United States, it’s natural to wonder how this change in leadership might affect financial markets and, in turn, your investments. While political developments can sometimes spark uncertainty, successful investing…
Read MoreKey Highlights from the 2024 Autumn Budget
The Chancellor’s first Autumn Budget under the new Labour government introduced significant updates that could impact your financial plans. From adjustments to stamp duty land tax and pensions to changes in inheritance tax and capital gains, these new measures reflect the government’s goals to stabilise finances while funding essential public services. You can read the…
Read MoreUnderstanding Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Financial Protection
By Samuel Mather-Holgate Every year, millions of people around the world experience a stroke. I know, personally, several people who have (and are) going through the ordeal who each have individual symptoms varying in severity. World Stroke Day, observed on October 29th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, treatment, and…
Read MoreLending Options for Older Clients: Finding the Right Solution for Your Financial Needs
By Samuel Mather-Holgate As people are living longer and healthier lives, many older clients are exploring financial options that allow them to maintain their lifestyle, supplement their pension income, or help family members. For older homeowners, there are a variety of lending solutions available, including traditional mortgages, retirement interest-only mortgages (RIO), and lifetime mortgages. Each…
Read MoreHow Money Affects Mental Health: Financial Wellbeing on World Mental Health Day
As we recognise World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation. One of the most significant and often overlooked factors affecting our mental wellbeing is money. Whether it’s the stress of debt, the anxiety of managing expenses, or the emotional toll of financial instability, the relationship between money…
Read MoreUK Autumn Statement: How Labour Might Tackle the Fiscal Deficit Without Raising Income Tax, National Insurance, or VAT
Introduction With Labour’s recent election win, attention is now focused on their upcoming Autumn Statement, which will reveal their plans to address the so-called “fiscal black hole.” Labour has already ruled out increasing income tax rates, National Insurance, or VAT, narrowing the options available to raise the necessary revenue. This blog explores the potential tax…
Read MoreAccessing Personal Insurance for People with HIV
Accessing Life Insurance and Income Protection for People with HIV: Myths Dispelled and the Importance of Expert Advice Living with HIV has seen significant advancements in recent years, particularly in terms of medical care and access to insurance. At Mather & Murray Financial, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that these changes present. Recent…
Read MoreBig Changes Ahead for Childcare Funding!
By Helen Quayle Attention, working families with preschoolers—exciting changes are coming your way! Did you know that childcare funding is about to change significantly? Here’s what you need to know about the expanded offer. The Expanded Offer Starting in April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds can access 15 hours of childcare support per week.…
Read MoreThe Importance of Starting Your Pension Early: A Guide to Financial Security
I understand the crucial role that pensions play in securing your financial future. One of the most frequently asked questions I encounter is about the ideal time to start saving for retirement. In this blog, I will address this and other important questions to help you understand the significance of early pension savings and how…
Read MoreNavigating Financial Planning During Divorce: Essential Considerations
Introduction Divorce can be a profoundly challenging time, affecting individuals not only emotionally but also financially. Understanding how to manage and protect your finances during this significant life transition is crucial for long-term stability. In this blog post, we’ll look into the essential financial aspects you need to consider when going through a divorce, including…
Read MoreCelebrating Armed Forces Day: The Importance of Financial Advice for Our Heroes
Introduction As we approach Armed Forces Day on 29th June, it’s a time not only to honour our service members, veterans, and their families but also to acknowledge the unique financial challenges they face. The demands of military life, including frequent relocations and deployments, can make financial planning especially complex. The Value of Specialised Financial…
Read MoreUnderstanding Capital Gains Tax: What to Expect in the 2024 UK General Election
Introduction With the 2024 UK general election drawing near, questions are circulating about potential tax changes under a new government. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is often a topic of discussion. Here, we answer the most pressing questions about what CGT is, the current rates, exemptions, and how things might shift post-election. What is Capital Gains…
Read MoreNew Tax Year Planning: What You Need to Consider Now
Book a call back now! As we usher in the new tax year, it’s the perfect time to give your finances a spring clean. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just starting to navigate the complexities of financial planning, there are several key areas to consider to ensure you’re making the most of your allowances…
Read MoreEmpowering Women with Financial Advice: Top 10 Reasons It’s Essential in the UK
In the UK, financial empowerment for women is not just about equality; it’s about smart planning and recognising the unique challenges women face. With issues like the gender pay gap and career breaks impacting long-term financial health, tailored financial advice is critical. Here’s why financial advice is invaluable for women. 1. Tackling the Gender Pay…
Read MoreWhy You Absolutely Need a Will: A Clear and Simple Guide
Introduction Hello! Today we’re tackling an essential topic that’s often overlooked: the importance of making a will. Regardless of your age or wealth, having a will is a critical aspect of financial planning. Let’s explore why it’s crucial and what you should know. Section 1: What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will? What if…
Read MoreUnderstanding Your State Pension: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction Welcome to our comprehensive guide on understanding your state pension in the UK. As independent financial advisers based in Swindon, we’re here to help you navigate through the complexities of pensions and National Insurance, ensuring you’re well-informed and prepared for retirement. The New State Pension: Eligibility Is the UK state pension a benefit? The…
Read MoreStaying Safe Online: How to Spot and Dodge Scammers
No longer do you have to fall victim to a supposed Nigerian Prince, offering you winnings of an African lottery that you have never entered to get ripped off. Scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated with their techniques. These sneaky people want to trick you out of your money or personal information, but don’t worry—we’ve…
Read MoreMoney and Mental Health: Navigating the Connection with Strategies for Well-being
Introduction In the hustle of life, we often overlook the profound impact our financial health can have on our mental well-being. The intricate dance between money and mental health is more than just numbers on a bank statement. Let’s delve into this often-neglected aspect of our lives, explore the nuanced connections, and discover strategies for…
Read MoreUnderstanding Personal Injury Trusts
Understanding Personal Injury Trusts: A Guide to Financial Security After Serious Injury Introduction When serious injury strikes, navigating the aftermath involves more than just physical recovery. The compensation received demands careful consideration to ensure long-term financial security. Enter the crucial tool – the Personal Injury Trust. I. Unveiling the Features of a Personal Injury Trust…
Read MoreCultivating Money Smarts: A Guide to Teaching Children About Finances
Welcome to a transformative journey of financial empowerment for your little ones! At Mather & Murray Financial, your dedicated financial advisers in Swindon and nationwide, we recognise the crucial role of instilling money management skills early on. Join us in exploring practical, fun, and comprehensive ways to teach your children about the fascinating world of…
Read MoreUnlocking Financial Potential: Understanding the Family Investment Company
Exploring Features and Benefits In the intricate realm of financial planning, the Family Investment Company (FIC) has emerged as a strategic and versatile tool for families looking to safeguard and grow their wealth. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essence of a Family Investment Company, unveiling its features and the array of benefits it…
Read MoreDemystifying Investment Options: EIS vs VCT
Introduction: Navigating the Investment Landscape Investing in the right avenues is paramount for financial growth and security. Two popular options in the UK investment landscape are the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs). In this article, we’ll delve into the key distinctions between EIS and VCT, helping you make informed decisions on…
Read MoreTax Planning for Brighton’s Small Business Owners
Brighton’s vibrant business scene is a melting pot of creativity and entrepreneurship. If you’re a small business owner in this coastal city, you’re part of a dynamic community that thrives on innovation. However, along with the opportunities come responsibilities, and one significant aspect is managing your tax liabilities effectively. In this article, we’ll explore tax…
Read MoreWhat is a Mortgage Capacity Report?
Unveiling the Power of a Mortgage Capacity Report In the realm of mortgages, navigating the complexities can be akin to traversing uncharted waters. But fear not, for a Mortgage Capacity Report is a beacon of clarity, casting light on your ability to secure your dream home. At Mather & Murray Financial, we recognise the significance…
Read MoreTop Tips to Improve Your Credit Rating and Secure Your Perfect Mortgage
Securing a mortgage for your dream home is a significant step, and your credit rating plays a crucial role in this process. A good credit rating not only increases your chances of approval but also helps you secure better terms and interest rates. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or considering remortgaging, improving your credit rating…
Read MoreBBC Radio interview
BBC Radio interviewed Samuel Mather-Holgate, director at Mather & Murray Financial, about interest rates, the Bank of England, inflation and the state of the UK economy.
Read MoreHow to choose a financial adviser
When it comes to managing your finances and planning for the future, finding the right financial adviser is crucial. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to determine who can truly meet your unique needs. At Mather & Murray Financial, we understand the importance of selecting the right partner to guide you…
Read MoreFOCUS on Swindon: Why Swindon is a Great Place to Retire- Enjoying Your Golden Years in a Vibrant Community
Retirement is a time to relax, explore new opportunities, and fully enjoy life. If you’re considering where to spend your golden years, look no further than Swindon. This vibrant town offers a plethora of attractions and a warm community spirit that make it an ideal place to retire. Embracing a Thriving Community: The Welcoming Spirit…
Read MoreUnlocking Opportunities: Mortgages, Insurance, and Tax Strategies for Portfolio Landlords
Introduction Welcome to our comprehensive guide for portfolio landlords, who face unique challenges in obtaining mortgages and navigating the ever-changing landscape of tax legislation. In this article, we will explore tailored solutions for financing, insurance coverage, and discuss the important decision of whether to incorporate. Our expertise and understanding of portfolio landlords ensure you can…
Read MoreFOCUS on Brighton- Unlocking Your Home’s Value in Beautiful Brighton: A Guide to Equity Release
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on equity release in Brighton, where you can unlock the value of your home and embrace the vibrant lifestyle this coastal city has to offer. In this article, we will explore the benefits of equity release while showcasing Brighton’s unique charm and why it’s an ideal place to call home.…
Read MoreFOCUS on Swindon- Building a Diversified Investment Portfolio: Maximising Returns for Swindon Investors
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on building a diversified investment portfolio for Swindon residents. A diversified portfolio is crucial for long-term financial success, as it helps mitigate risk and optimise returns. In this article, we will explore the importance of diversification and provide actionable tips to create a portfolio tailored to the unique needs and…
Read MoreInvesting in Property in Swindon: A Lucrative Opportunity
Investing in Property in Swindon: A Lucrative Opportunity Are you searching for the perfect location to invest in property? Look no further than Swindon! This bustling town in the heart of England offers a wealth of opportunities for property investors. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why Swindon is a great place to invest…
Read MoreExpert independent financial advice for the LGBT+ community
As independent financial advisers, we understand that every individual has unique financial goals and challenges. This is especially true for members of the LGBT+ community, who may face additional financial hurdles due to societal and legal discrimination. Mather & Murray Financial was founded in Swindon, by a member of this community, and ensuring everyone gets…
Read MoreRemoval of the lifetime allowance – what we know so far
The Spring Budget certainly sprung a surprise when Jeremy Hunt announced that the lifetime allowance (LTA) is to be abolished. An increase to £1.8m had been strongly rumoured in the days leading up to the Budget, but scrapping it altogether is a welcome simplification for advisers and their high earning clients. In most cases it…
Read MoreReasons to explore equity release and what to consider
As an independent financial adviser, I often work with clients who are considering equity release as a way to unlock some of the value in their homes. Equity release can be a useful financial tool, but it’s important to understand the reasons why clients take out equity release and the potential risks involved. In this…
Read MoreTax year deadline- ISA essential features and benefits
10 key ISA (Individual Savings Account) facts 1. What is an ISA? An ISA is a tax-free savings account. Money saved within the ISA wrapper isn’t charged any income, capital gains, or dividend tax. 2. How much can I save in my ISA each year All eligible ISA participants receive a £20,000 annual allowance. This…
Read MoreWhat are the benefits of contributing to a pension?
As an independent financial adviser, I am often asked about the benefits of contributing to a pension. It’s an important question, and the answer is more complicated than you might think. That’s because pensions offer a wide range of benefits that can vary depending on your individual circumstances. However, in this article, I will outline…
Read MoreWhat celebrities and sportspeople have to consider when buying a home and getting a mortgage
When it comes to buying a home and getting a mortgage, celebrities and sportspeople have unique considerations to keep in mind. From fluctuating incomes to privacy concerns, here are some important factors that celebrities and sportspeople should consider when purchasing a home and applying for a mortgage. Income verification For celebrities and sportspeople who have…
Read MoreA guide to pensions and divorce
Divorce can be an emotionally challenging time, and it’s not surprising that many people overlook the financial implications that it can have on their future. One important aspect that often goes unnoticed is pensions. In this guide, we will explore what you need to know about pensions and divorce, and the options you have to…
Read MoreWhat are your options at retirement?
Drawing Your Pension: Understanding Your Options and Making an Informed Decision Retirement is a major milestone in everyone’s life and choosing the right option for drawing your pension is an important decision. There are several options available for drawing your pension, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the…
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