Smart Money Guides

Welcome to our latest issue. Inside, we explore a new study that reveals a startling insight. As many as one in six (15%) individuals with a partner are unclear about who will receive their pension savings if they pass away before accessing them[1]. Even more concerning, this figure rises to nearly one in five (18%) among the Silent Generation (aged 79 and older). Such statistics highlight the urgent need for improved awareness and planning regarding pension inheritance. This lack of clarity can lead to legal complications and emotional distress for loved ones when the time comes to distribute these assets. Turn to page 07 to read the full article.

If you have accumulated wealth over your lifetime, it is never too early to plan so that any remaining wealth is distributed to your chosen beneficiaries in the most tax-efficient way. On page 40, we explain why planning ahead ensures that a greater portion of your wealth ends up in the hands of the people and causes you care about most. It also provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Market volatility is an inevitable part of investing, influenced by factors such as geopolitical events like the invasion of Ukraine, trade wars, inflationary pressures, and changes in interest rates, which can cause significant market fluctuations. While it may be tempting to react to these shifts, it’s crucial to focus on strategies that mitigate the impact of turbulence and keep your long-term goals on track, as explained on page 08.

Similarly, retiring abroad may seem like a dream come true, but it could come with hidden financial costs for some British pensioners. Understanding your entitlements and planning can make all the difference, so find out more on page 08.

A complete list of the articles featured in this issue can be found on pages 02 and 03.

Source data:
[1] The research was conducted by Censuswide among a sample of 2,000 general consumers who have a partner, whether married, in a relationship or a civil partnership. The data was collected between 07/02/25 and 10/02/25.

Welcome to our Summer 2025 quarterly issue of The Mortgage & Property Magazine

Mortgages aren’t one-size-fits-all. From fixed rates to trackers, offset accounts to interest-only loans, the options can feel overwhelming. But selecting the right mortgage type is a crucial first step. Your decision will influence how much you pay each month and how flexible your finances remain in the years ahead. On page 28, we consider the main mortgage types available in the UK and explain how to choose the right one based on your goals, risk appetite, and budget.

If you’re a homeowner approaching the end of a fixed-rate deal or currently on a variable rate, you might be wondering whether to remortgage now or wait. It’s a timely question in 2025’s economic landscape. On page 12, we explain how remortgaging can help you secure a better interest rate or unlock equity, but selecting the right time to switch is vital. With mortgage rates fluctuating, timing your decision carefully could lead to significant savings.

Purchasing your first home is a significant milestone that comes with many questions. From the amount of deposit you need to what lenders consider affordable, the process can initially seem overwhelming. However, with the right knowledge and support, securing a mortgage is entirely achievable. Turn to page 16 to discover the key facts every first-time buyer needs to know in 2025, including ways to boost your deposit, how borrowing is assessed, and which schemes can help you buy sooner.

As marriage rates decline, homeownership becomes the top relationship goal for many British couples. For many, marriage is no longer the ultimate aim in relationships. Instead, the desire to own a home has risen to the forefront of their financial priorities. According to a recent survey, 48% of UK renters in relationships cited saving for a property as their main financial goal, significantly exceeding the 8% who focus on saving for a wedding. Read the article on page 104.

A complete list of the articles appears on pages 03 to 05.