Bed and ISA – Moving investments into a tax-efficient wrapper
While the name Bed and ISA might seem like an obscure expression, the idea is simple. Fairstone Chartered financial planner, Sean McParland, explains the concept, why we would recommend it, and the potential risks involved. Bed and ISA is selling investments that you’re holding outside an ISA, and then buying the same investments back within […]
Moving home? Get ultra-organised for your big move
Making the decision to move home is a big one. From changing lifestyles to the ‘race for space’, there is no shortage of households looking to up sticks. Whether you’re moving to be closer to the great outdoors, or simply for work and family reasons, there’s no doubt that getting the keys to a new […]
First time buyer? Consider a joint borrower sole proprietor mortgage
Helping young people to get onto the first rung of the property ladder A Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor Mortgage (otherwise referred to as a JBSP mortgage) is a type of home loan that allows two people to borrow money together while only one of them is named on the mortgage. This can be beneficial for […]
Not seeking expert advice could cost you dearly during a divorce
Love is in the air once again as we approach Valentine’s Day. But according to latest figures by the Office for National Statistics, more and more of us are sadly falling out of love, with divorce rates in 2021 going up by almost 10%. If you’re heading for divorce or breaking up from a long-term […]
Important questions to ask when buying your first property
Are you ready to become a first-time buyer? Taking the plunge to making your first step on the property ladder and buying a first home is unfamiliar territory and, for many, a daunting experience. In a world of credit scores, LTV and mortgages, we have listed the most pressing questions we get asked by first-time […]
Older Britons helping younger generations to purchase a home
Fairstone mortgage adviser, Emily Cadmore shares how more older Britons are helping younger generations become first-time buyers. There is a growing tendency among older Britons to use the wealth held in their property to help younger generations become first time buyers, new research suggests[1]. Homeowners, particularly those who are mortgage-free, are planning to use investments, […]
Buying your first home?
Independent financial adviser, Stuart Hardman, shares how to build a deposit and boost your savings as a first-time buyer. There’s no denying that first-time buyers face huge challenges at the moment. Prices are currently at record levels, which means the amount of deposit you need to purchase is the highest it’s been, proportionate to income, […]
Getting a mortgage when you’re self-employed
Fairstone mortgage and protection adviser, Mark Alexander, discusses useful tips for sole traders getting a mortgage, including one of the biggest challenges and how you can get yourself in the best possible position before applying. The mortgage market has come a long way in recent years and self-employed borrowers now have more choices available to […]
Get prepared for tax year end 2023
With the personal tax year coming to an end on 5 April, now is the time you should be working with your financial adviser to ensure you have utilised your tax allowances and exceptions. There are several ways you can ensure your finances are in the best position; from individual savings accounts (ISAs) and capital […]
Capital Gains Tax guide – Ways to reduce your CGT liability
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a form of taxation imposed on profits earned from the sale of certain types of assets. Gains are calculated by subtracting the purchase price and related expenses (such as sales charges) from the selling price. They are generally taxed at a rate higher than income taxes in order to discourage […]