Budget Announcement

Budget Announcement Oct 24

Budget Announcement

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has delivered Labour’s first Budget Announcement since 2010, after the party’s return to power in July’s general election.

We wanted to provide you with a summary of the most notable points that were made in yesterday’s Budget Announcement.

Personal taxes

  • Freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds to end in 2028, preventing people from being dragged into higher tax bands as their wages rise
  • Capital gains tax paid on profits from selling shares to increase from up to 20% to up to 24% – rates on additional property sales to stay same
  • Freeze on inheritance tax thresholds extended beyond 2028 to 2030

Housing

  • Current affordable homes budget, which runs until 2026, boosted by £500m
  • Social housing providers to be allowed to increase rents above inflation under a multi-year settlement
  • Stamp duty surcharge, paid on second home purchases in England and Northern Ireland, to go up from 3% to 5%

Transport, alcohol, tobacco

  • £2 cap on single bus fares in England to rise to £3 from January
  • 5p cut to fuel duty on petrol and diesel, due to end in April 2025, kept for another year
  • Commitment to fund tunnelling work to take HS2 high-speed rail line to Euston station in central London
  • Commitment to deliver upgrade to trans-Pennine rail line between York and Manchester, running via Leeds and Huddersfield
  • Air Passenger Duty on flights by private jet to go up by 50%
  • Tax on tobacco to increase by 2% above inflation, and 10% above inflation for hand-rolling tobacco
  • Tax on non-draught alcoholic drinks to increase by the higher RPI measure of inflation, but tax on draught drinks cut by 1.7%

Wages, benefits and pensions

  • Legal minimum wage for over-21s to rise from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour from April
  • Rate for 18 to 20-year-olds to go up from £8.60 to £10, as part of a long-term plan to move towards a “single adult rate”
  • Eligibility widened for the allowance paid to full-time carers, by increasing the maximum earnings threshold from £151 to £195 a week

Business taxes

  • Firms to pay National Insurance on workers’ earnings above £5,000 from April, down from £9,100 currently, with the rate increasing from 13.8% to 15%
  • Employment allowance – which allows companies to reduce their NI liability – to increase from £5,000 to £10,500
  • Tax paid by private equity managers on share of profits from successful deals to rise from up to 28% to up to 32% from April
  • Main rate of corporation tax, paid by businesses on taxable profits over £250,000, to stay at 25% until next election

UK debt, inflation and economic growth

  • Office for Budget Responsibility predicts the UK economy will grow by 1.1% this year, 2% next year, and 1.8% in 2026
  • Inflation predicted to average 2.5% this year, 2.6% next year, before falling to 2.3% in 2026
  • Official definition of UK government debt loosened by including a wider range of financial assets, such as future student loan repayments

Government spending and public services

  • Extra £22.6bn for day-to-day spending on the NHS in England, and a £3.1bn boost to budget for investment
  • £6.7bn allocated for education investment next year, with £1.4bn earmarked for rebuilding over 500 schools

Source

BBC News (2024) Budget 2024: Key points at-a-glance. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdxl1zd07l1o [Accessed 30th October 2024]

All the information in this article om the Budget Announcement is correct as of the publish date 31st October 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. 

For more mortgage information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Move Before Winter

Should you Move Before Winter? Navigating the Autumn Housing Market

Move Before Winter

As the leaves turn golden and the temperature begins to drop, many UK homeowners may find themselves wondering if autumn is the right time to make a move and should you Move Before Winter. For homeowners considering selling or buying a property, the housing market can present both opportunities and challenges at this time of year. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of moving before winter and what you should consider if you’re thinking of taking that step.

Why Autumn Can Be a Good Time to Move

The autumn season offers some unique advantages for home buyers and sellers:

  1. Less Competition Spring and summer tend to be peak periods in the housing market, with more listings and heightened competition1. By autumn, there may be many buyers who were unsuccessful earlier in the year and are still looking, but with fewer homes available, which could help make your property stand out more if you’re selling.  
  2. Serious Buyers Autumn buyers may be more serious than the casual summer browsers – with the holiday season looming, this could work in your favour for a smoother transaction process as buyers seek to act fast to get settled before Winter.
  3. Faster Processes Professionals such as estate agents, solicitors, and mortgage brokers tend to have fewer clients during autumn than in the hectic summer months. This can lead to a more efficient process, with shorter waits for appointments and quicker response times, meaning you could complete your sale or purchase faster2.

Considerations for Moving in Autumn or Move Before Winter

Despite the advantages, there are some aspects of the autumn market that are worth keeping in mind:

  1. Weather-Related Challenges As we move deeper into autumn, the weather becomes less predictable. Rainy days can make properties look less appealing and may cause delays in tasks like surveys, moving, and viewings. However, proper planning can mitigate these issues, such as scheduling viewings on brighter days and arranging for any external work to be completed before the weather turns.
  2. Reduced Property Availability While autumn can offer less competition, it may also mean fewer properties on the market. Some sellers prefer to wait until spring, when their gardens and outdoor spaces look their best, and when the weather is more conducive to home improvements. If you’re a buyer, this could mean a more limited selection to choose from.
  3. Seasonal Expenses With winter around the corner, energy bills can become a factor. If you’re moving into a new home, it’s important to assess its energy efficiency and whether it’s ready for the colder months. Similarly, as a seller, ensuring your home is well insulated and energy efficient can be a strong selling point to prospective buyers.

Preparing Your Home for a Quick Sale and Move Before Winter

If you’re considering selling this autumn, a few tweaks can help make your property more appealing:

  • Curb Appeal: With trees shedding their leaves, your home’s exterior may look less lively. Keep gardens tidy, gutters clean, and outdoor spaces well-maintained to enhance that all-important first impression.
  • Lighting: Shorter days mean less natural light, so maximise indoor lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere during viewings. Consider swapping out dim bulbs for brighter ones and drawing attention to cozy features like fireplaces or heated flooring.
  • Energy Efficiency: Highlight any energy-efficient features in your home. As winter approaches, buyers will be thinking about heating costs, so showcasing double-glazing, a well-insulated loft, or a new boiler could give your home an edge.

Final Thoughts

Moving home is always a big decision, but autumn can present a unique opportunity for UK homeowners. With less competition, motivated buyers, and the potential for quicker transactions, the autumn housing market may just be the ideal time for you to make your move before the chill of winter sets in and Move Before Winter.

Sources

  1. Rightmove (2024) When is the best time to sell a house?. Available at: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/guides/seller/preparing-to-sell/is-now-the-right-time-to-sell/ [Accessed 21 Oct 2024]
  2. Sold.co.uk (2024) Is Winter a Good Time to Buy/Sell a House?. Available at: https://www.sold.co.uk/online-estate-agent/is-winter-a-good-time-to-buysell-a-house/ [Accessed 21 Oct 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 31st October 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. 

For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Private Medical Insurance

Skip the NHS Queues: Why Private Medical Insurance Could be Your Health Lifeline

Private Medical Insurance

In a world where NHS waiting lists stretch endlessly, more people are turning to private healthcare1. Could Private Medical Insurance (PMI) be your fast track to better health? Let’s explore if it’s worth considering and how it could impact your peace of mind.

The Private Healthcare Boom

It’s expected that by the end of 2024, there will have been over 900,000 private healthcare admissions, driven largely by NHS backlogs and long waiting times. Admissions funded through private medical insurance (PMI) have seen an 11% increase, with self-pay options also experiencing growth, rising 32% above pre-pandemic levels​.2

With NHS waiting lists longer than ever3, the appeal of skipping ahead with private insurance has never been stronger. Imagine getting that procedure you need within weeks rather than months. PMI could be your ticket to regaining control over your healthcare.

What’s in It for You?

Private Medical Insurance doesn’t just offer quicker care,  it’s designed to help put you in the driver’s seat. You can choose your specialist, your hospital, and you’re likely to benefit from faster access to diagnostics, surgeries, and treatments. Plus, many policies now offer mental health coverage, acknowledging that a healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body4.

Here’s what most policies cover4:

  • Fast-tracked consultations with experts in their field
  • Surgeries and hospital stays in private facilities
  • Outpatient services such as tests, scans, and X-rays
  • Physiotherapy for when you need to get back on your feet
  • 24/7 GP access—often via virtual consultations, giving you round-the-clock support

However, PMI doesn’t cover everything. Emergencies, chronic conditions like diabetes, and maternity care are typically excluded. These are important limitations to be aware of when deciding if PMI is right for you4.

Not Ready for PMI? Here Are Other Options

If you’re still unsure about PMI, you’ve got alternatives. Critical illness insurance offers a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a major condition5, while income protection provides a safety net if you can’t work due to illness or injury6. These policies can provide financial stability in times of health crises, so don’t discount them.

Is Private Medical Insurance the Right Choice for You?

Let’s be real: the decision to invest in PMI depends on your personal priorities. If the idea of waiting months for a specialist through the NHS makes you anxious, PMI could be one answer for helping give some peace of mind. For self-employed individuals, it’s even more critical. A health issue could mean serious financial setbacks, and PMI might just save the day by helping you to get back to work faster.

Alternatively, you could create a dedicated savings pot for medical expenses. But remember, medical bills can rack up quickly, and you might find that your savings don’t cover everything when the time comes.

Your Health, Your Choice

In the end, the decision to take out PMI is entirely personal. It’s about how much you value immediate access to healthcare, and how much you’re willing to invest in securing that peace of mind.

Take the Next Step Towards Smarter Healthcare Choices

We can help you find the right insurance product to suit your needs and budget. Whether you’re leaning towards PMI or exploring other forms of protection, we’ll guide you through the process, to help you make an informed decision that fits your exact needs.  

Sources

  1. Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN) (2024) Strong private healthcare sector performance continues. Available at: https://www.phin.org.uk/news/Strong-private-healthcare-sector-performance-continues-with-payment-through-insurance-leading-the-way- [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]
  2. Independent Healthcare Providers Network (2024) New research shows “going private” is becoming the new normal. Available at: https://www.ihpn.org.uk/news/new-research-shows-going-private-is-becoming-the-new-normal/ [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]
  3. British Medical Association (2024) NHS backlog data analysis. Available at: https://www.bma.org.uk/advice-and-support/nhs-delivery-and-workforce/pressures/nhs-backlog-data-analysis [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]
  4. Money.co.uk (2024) How does private health insurance work?. Available at: https://www.money.co.uk/health-insurance/how-does-health-insurance-work [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]
  5. Citizens Advice (2024) What is critical illness insurance? https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/insurance/types-of-insurance/what-critical-illness-insurance-is/ [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]
  6. Citizens Advice (2024) Income protection insurance. Available at: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/insurance/types-of-insurance/income-protection-insurance/ [Accessed 17 Oct 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 31st October 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Are Tracker Mortgages Becoming Popular?

Tracker mortgages have gained significant traction in the UK housing market throughout 2024, with recent data showing a 67% surge in uptake compared to 2021.1 

Tracker Mortgages

The appeal of Tracker Mortgages stems from their flexible nature, offering interest rates that follow the Bank of England’s base rate, which has become especially attractive amidst ongoing economic uncertainty and fluctuating interest rates.

What is a tracker mortgage, and how does it work?

A tracker mortgage is a type of variable rate mortgage which tracks a pre-arranged independently set interest rate – usually linked to the Bank of England base rate – for a set period. The term could be between 1 and 5 years, or an open-ended lifetime tracker mortgage. Like all variable rates, they go up as well as down, depending on movements in the Bank of England base interest rate.2

For example, if the base rate is 5% and your tracker mortgage is set at ‘base rate plus 1%’, then your interest would be 6%. If the base rate drops to 4%, your interest would decrease to 5%.

What is Driving the Shift?

In 2021, only 118,818 tracker mortgages were issued in the UK, but by the first quarter of 2024, this figure had skyrocketed to 198,044. According to research, the growing appeal of tracker mortgages is tied to the shifting interest rate environment1. As the Bank of England’s monetary policy evolves, borrowers have increasingly looked for mortgage products that provide them with the flexibility to benefit from potential interest rate cuts faster than those on fixed-rate mortgages.

Two-Year Tracker Mortgages Lead the Surge

Among tracker mortgages, two-year products have seen the most significant growth, with an 87% rise, jumping from over 86,000 in 2021 to more than 160,000 two-year tracker mortgages in 2024. This suggests that borrowers are particularly keen on short-term deals that offer immediate savings, allowing them to benefit from a potential rate reduction over the next couple of years3.

Borrowers are likely anticipating that interest rates will stabilise or decrease in the near future, making short-term tracker deals an attractive option. However, it’s worth noting that this rise comes at the expense of longer-term products. For instance, three-year and five-year tracker mortgages have seen declines in uptake, with three-year deals dropping by 66%, and five-year deals by 26%, as borrowers are wary of locking into longer terms given the current uncertainty around interest rates over the longer-term period.3

What are the main risks of a tracker mortgage?

While tracker mortgages can offer financial advantages, they come with risks. Given their flexible nature, it’s important to consider the emotional toll of fluctuating monthly payments.

For borrowers who are prone to financial stress, the unpredictability of a tracker mortgage can lead to anxiety, especially if the Bank of England unexpectedly raises rates.

Additionally, while some borrowers may enjoy lower payments when rates fall, others could see their monthly mortgage costs increase if rates rise. It’s crucial to carefully weigh the short-term savings against the long-term risks and ensure that you’d be comfortable with the possibility of higher repayments should the economy change – especially bearing in mind the turbulence seen in recent years.

Is a Tracker Mortgage Right for You?

The decision to opt for a tracker mortgage depends on your own financial goals, lifestyle, tolerance of risk and your outlook on the interest rate environment ahead.

For those who believe that interest rates are likely to fall or remain stable, a tracker mortgage may possibly offer more financial flexibility than a fixed-rate mortgage. However, it’s important to remain vigilant, keep an eye on interest rate movements and be prepared for the potential of increased payments with relatively short notice.

If this is something of interest to you, then please do get in touch to discuss further. We’ll listen to your exact circumstances and make bespoke recommendations to fit your precise needs, to allow you to make an educated decision on your mortgage.

Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.

Sources

  1. Mortgage Solutions (2024) Tracker mortgages have surged in popularity during the past three years, it has been revealed. Available at: https://www.mortgagesolutions.co.uk/news/2024/10/04/tracker-mortgages-surge-in-popularity-by-67/
  2. Experian (2024) Tracker mortgages. Available at: https://www.experian.co.uk/consumer/mortgages/guides/tracker.html [Accessed 22 Oct 2024]
  3. Introducer Today (2024) Huge rise in tracker mortgages taken out since 2021. Available at: https://www.introducertoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2024/10/huge-surge-in-tracker-mortgages-taken-out-since-2021/ [Accessed 22 Oct 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 31st October 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

AI Voice Scams

AI Voice Scams: Could You Be Next? Over a Quarter of Brits Targeted

Voice Scams

Fraudsters are taking advantage of cutting-edge AI technology with Voice Scams and it’s time we all start paying attention. According to shocking new research from Starling Bank, over a quarter (28%) of UK adults have been targeted by AI voice cloning scams in the past year alone. The worst part? Nearly half (46%) of Brits don’t even know these scams exist, leaving them wide open to being tricked.

The terrifying thing about AI Voice Scams cloning is that criminals only need three seconds of audio to mimic someone’s voice1. That’s right, just a few seconds of your voice – maybe from a video on social media – and fraudsters can sound exactly like you or your loved ones. Once they’ve cloned your voice, they’ll call or leave a message for your family, sounding desperate, asking for money urgently.

Amazingly, nearly 1 in 10 people said they’d send money even if the call seemed a bit off. That’s millions of potential victims of Voice Scams! Yet only 30% of us know what to look for when it comes to these scams1.

So what can you do? One technique could be to establish a secret ‘Safe Phrase’ with your close family and friends, something that only you and they know – this way, if you ever get a strange call from someone claiming to be a loved one, just ask for the phrase. If they can’t say it, it’s probably a scam.

Starling has even enlisted the help of actor James Nesbitt, whose voice was cloned to show just how real the threat is. “Hearing my own voice cloned was a real eye-opener,” he admits. “I’ll definitely be setting up a Safe Phrase with my family.”1

In a world where fraud is on the rise, and financial fraud cases are skyrocketing, it’s crucial to stay alert.

Sources

  1. Starling Bank (2024) AI voice cloning scams could catch millions out. Available at: https://www.starlingbank.com/news/starling-bank-launches-safe-phrases-campaign/ [Accessed 19th September 2024].
  2. For more information go to Brighton Mortgage Broker – The Finance House

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 26th September 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Are You Ready for the Energy Price Cap Hike?

Energy Price Cap Hike

Energy Price Cap

The energy price cap rises from October 1st, UK homeowners are facing the harsh reality of increased energy bills – and it’s those living in the least energy-efficient homes who will feel the biggest pinch. According to new data from Rightmove1, households in properties with the lowest energy performance ratings (EPC F-G) could see their annual bills spike by £558 under the new price cap.

For homes with a more typical EPC rating of D, the increase will still be a significant £225 per year on average from the previous energy cap1. But it’s the least efficient homes, already struggling with higher energy costs, that will bear the brunt of these latest rises.

With the cost-of-living crisis already squeezing budgets, this rise in energy bills could leave many homeowners scrambling for ways to cut costs.

Energy Efficiency Becomes a Top Priority

Improving energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money on bills – it’s becoming a key selling point for buyers and renters. As Tim Bannister from Rightmove explains, “Energy efficiency is fast becoming a top consideration for buyers and renters who want to future-proof themselves against rising costs.”

With energy prices unlikely to drop anytime soon2, homeowners are now looking at ways to make their properties more efficient, from upgrading insulation to installing energy-efficient windows and boilers, and according to Rightmove’s survey, 70% of homeowners and 76% of renters said they would change how and when they use energy if it meant having cheaper bills1.

These measures could be a worthwhile investment, especially as energy bills continue to climb.

Time to Act

If your home has a lower energy rating, it might be time to consider making improvements. Even small upgrades can help reduce bills and make a property more attractive to buyers..

With October 1st just around the corner, now is the time to prepare. Whether you’re staying put or looking to move, energy efficiency is quickly becoming a must-have feature for anyone looking to avoid crippling energy bills.

Sources

  1. Rightmove (2024) Energy price cap increase could raise bills by £558 for least energy-efficient homes. Available at: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/press-centre/energy-price-cap-increase-could-raise-bills-by-558-for-least-energy-efficient-homes/ [Accessed 19th September 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 26th September 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Property Market

Autumn Property Market Off to a Flying Start

Property Market

With the summer holidays now behind us, the Autumn home-selling season has kicked off in full force – and this year, it’s busier than ever! After a quieter property market in 2023, where many prospective buyers and sellers held back due to soaring mortgage rates and stubbornly high inflation, it seems 2024 is seeing a rebound1.

According to the latest figures from Rightmove, there’s been a 15% increase in enquiries to estate agents compared to the same period last year. Even more impressively, sales agreed are up by 27%, a clear sign that home-movers are now feeling more confident about making a move1.

Why the Sudden Surge?

Several factors are driving this renewed market activity. Mortgage rates, which caused many to delay their moves in 2023, have been trending downward. Inflation is finally heading closer to its 2% target2, and for the first time in four years, we saw a Base Rate cut on August 1st.3 This has boosted buyer confidence, giving many the green light to purchase the homes they may have been eyeing up last year.

Prices Are on the Rise

In line with the busier market, asking prices are climbing. The average asking price of a home in Great Britain is now £370,759, a jump of £3,000 since August – that’s a 0.8% increase, double the usual seasonal rise​.1

But as always, location matters, and prices vary greatly depending on where you live.

Here’s a breakdown of the changes, according to data from Rightmove1:

  • First-time buyers: average price now £227,570, up 0.2% from last month.
  • Second-steppers: average price now £343,052, up 0.7%.
  • Top of the ladder: average price now £670,753, up 0.8%.

What Could This Mean for Sellers?

While it’s a busy market, it’s not necessarily a seller’s dream scenario. Buyers are being more selective, taking an average of 60 days to find the right property – three days longer than last year. That means sellers need to be realistic with their pricing from the start1.

Looking Ahead

The Government’s Autumn Statement on October 30th will likely influence the market further, with the government’s fiscal plans potentially affecting property buyers and sellers. For now, though, there’s a window of opportunity – but it might not stay open for long.

So, if you’re thinking of selling or buying in this property market, now could be the time to act, and we’re here to help give bespoke mortgage & protection advice to help you on the journey.

Sources

  1. Rightmove (2024) Autumn home-selling season off to busy start. Available at: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/news/articles/property-news/autumn-selling-season-busy-start-sep24/ [Accessed 19th September 2024]

All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 26th September 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Please be aware that by clicking on to any of the above links you are leaving our website. Please note that neither we nor HL Partnership Limited are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.