It’s a question financial planners hear regularly, often after someone inherits money or gets a windfall. The thing is, the question isn’t always directed our way. It could be a casual conversation between friends in a coffee shop. But, it’s a big question, and despite property being a go-to option for previous generations, the consideration really requires some professional advice. We Brits have been obsessed with owning bricks and mortar for decades. But, pension options and flexibility have come a long way recently. For a number of reasons, which we’ll outline shortly, the tide is also changing for some Buy to Let investors. But first, let’s discuss one of the nation’s favourite subjects… House prices Across the UK price increases... Read More

We can all get complacent over our health, whether we consider ourselves to be in good shape or otherwise. Having worked as a personal trainer, completed numerous triathlons, regularly open water swim and cycle, not to mention scurrying around after a 3-year-old toddler! – I consider myself to be in pretty good shape. But, every now and then, we’re brutally reminded that we are not invincible! A few weeks ago, I grazed my left elbow, which alone is hardly blog worthy. But, a week and a half later it had become swollen, painful and I began to feel very unwell. After visiting the GP, I quickly found myself being taken to hospital. My arm was potentially septic and by the... Read More

You might know the financial planning journey well. But, what about your family or friends who haven’t met with a financial planner? Feel free to forward this post to them. It’s natural to have some preconceptions, it might even feel a little daunting. After all, advisers and planners are only usually in the press when they’ve been part of a scam! You don’t often hear the good news and happy outcomes, and like every profession, you’ll find great financial planners and some not so great. Whilst we do work in a highly regulated profession, always look for personal testimonials, like a review on VouchedFor or a recommendation on LinkedIn. So, what should you expect from that initial meeting with a... Read More

As a busy professional, it’s easy to neglect your retirement planning. But, let’s take a minute to remind ourselves why pensions are so important; You get tax relief on contributions They grow largely free of tax You can take 25% tax-free from age 55 They are usually exempt from Inheritance Tax Pensions are an excellent tax-efficient way of saving towards your retirement. However, here are ten easily made mistakes: 1. Not maximising contributions Pension contributions get tax relief, meaning anything paid in is not taxed. Opting to put £100 into your pension and not your pocket, means that as a higher rate taxpayer, you will be £40 better off. Another way to look at it; it would cost just £60... Read More

It’s extremely rare that I write about myself. However, some news last weekend was so exciting I felt I had to share it. I’m delighted to announce that I have been named as one of the UK’s ‘top-rated’ financial advisers. The list, based on reviews by genuine clients and compiled by VouchedFor, was published in The Times newspaper on Saturday 23rd February 2019. All advisers on the list: must have received at least 10 genuine reviews with a minimum rating of 4.9/5 during 2018; and have been checked and fully vetted by VouchedFor Many of the awards and accreditations in my profession are based on technical knowledge or the ability to pass an exam. Both are important, however, I’m particularly... Read More