Blackdown Financial

Celebrating Success

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:28:57 +0000

At Blackdown Financial, we are delighted to be celebrating several exciting achievements as we continue through what is shaping up to be a memorable awards season. We are proud to announce that Blackdown Financial has been recognised as a Bronze Winner in both the SME of the Year and Employer of the Year categories at the Great British Business & Community Awards 2026.

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Top 10 Money Excuses

dukadmin — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 09:21:18 +0000

When it comes to money, most of us like to believe we’re making logical, rational decisions. The reality is often quite different. Human beings are emotional creatures, and our financial decisions are no exception. Fear, uncertainty, optimism, regret, and even overconfidence can all influence the choices we make. Rather than recognising these emotions for what they are…

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Pension or ISA: Which is Better for Retirement Saving?

dukadmin — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:25:33 +0000

A common question we are asked by clients when planning for retirement is whether they should save through a Pension or an Individual Savings Account (ISA). The reality is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Both pensions and ISAs offer valuable tax advantages, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses depending on your circumstances, objectives, and access needs.

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July 2026 – Economic and Property Market Review

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:04:00 +0000

July brought a mixture of encouraging signs and ongoing uncertainty for both the economy and property market. Inflation eased again and interest rates were left unchanged, helping to improve consumer confidence, while markets responded positively to the arrival of the new government. However, concerns remain around energy prices, business confidence and the wider global outlook…

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A Matter of Trust

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:54:20 +0000

When discussing financial planning, trusts are often misunderstood. Many people assume they are only relevant for the very wealthy or those with substantial family fortunes. In reality, trusts can be a valuable planning tool for people from all walks of life. The terminology surrounding trusts can seem complex, which sometimes puts people off exploring them. At their simplest, however…

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Is the Risk Worth the Reward?

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:04:27 +0000

Just outside our offices there is a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing which I use every day. Most days I will see someone cross the road when the lights are green for traffic. This usually involves walking between cars or waiting halfway across in the middle of the road. What strikes me each time is what can be so important that causes these people to risk injury or accident when…

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Your Fixed Rate Mortgage Is Coming to an End: How to Secure the Best Deal in a Changing Market

blackdownfinancialfran — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:53:49 +0000

If your fixed rate mortgage deal is coming to an end, now is the ideal time to review your options. Speaking to an independent mortgage adviser can help you make an informed decision about the next step in your mortgage journey. Recent reports show that mortgage rates have been falling, with many major UK lenders reducing rates throughout 2026 as funding costs have eased.

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Your Window on Home Finance – Summer 2026 Edition

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:59:22 +0000

As summer arrives and the property market enters one of its busiest periods, it’s the perfect time to take stock of the latest developments and prepare for any changes that could affect your home-moving or mortgage plans. In this edition, we’ll explore key market trends and help you prepare for any opportunities or challenges that may lie ahead. Excerpt from the newsletter below…

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Your Finance Matters – Summer 2026 Edition

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:38:10 +0000

This quarter’s edition discusses a range of topics including pensions and IHT, how to balance family support whilst also saving for your retirement goals, retirement planning for the self-employed and how to ensure you enjoy your happy and healthy retirement, plus more. An excerpt from the newsletter below… Around 40% of self-employed workers are actively saving for retirement…

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June 2026 – Economic & Property Market Review

melissa.chambers@blackdownfinancial.co.uk — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:04:51 +0000

The latest economic and property figures paint a picture of cautious optimism, with growth returning to the UK economy and inflation remaining lower than expected. However, uncertainty around energy prices, consumer confidence and the wider global backdrop means many households and businesses are still taking a wait-and-see approach. Meanwhile, the housing market continues to show […]