Spring Sunshine, Street Parties and Smart Planning

May 2025

Welcome to our May blog!

We hope you enjoyed a restful Easter and had the chance to spend some time with friends and family.

Now that the days are longer and the flowers are blooming, it is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors and take stock of what the rest of the year may bring — especially when it comes to your home and finances.

This month, we are covering three things that might be relevant to you or someone you know:

What to do if your interest-only mortgage is coming to an end
How the nation is marking 80 years since VE Day
And some light and healthy ways to enjoy the fresh air this spring

So, pop the kettle on and let’s dive in.

Are You Reaching the End of Your Interest-Only Mortgage?

If you took out an interest-only mortgage some years ago, you might be nearing the end of the loan term — and wondering what happens next.

You are not alone.

Thousands of homeowners across the UK are in the same situation. Their lender will soon expect the full amount borrowed to be paid back — but not everyone has a plan for how to do that.

But here is the good news: there are options. And the earlier you explore them, the more choices you will have.

Some of the ways forward include:

Switching to a new mortgage designed for later life — often with more flexibility around income and repayments
Taking out a lifetime or retirement interest-only mortgage — where you may not need to make monthly payments
Selling and downsizing to free up cash and make life more manageable
Using savings or investments to reduce what is owed

It is important not to wait until the loan ends. If you act early, you will avoid last-minute stress and have more time to think through what is best for you and your family.

At Later Life Property Finance, we are here to listen and help. We will explain things in plain English and help you find a solution that gives you peace of mind.

Thinking ahead now could make an enormous difference later.

VE Day 80: A Chance to Celebrate, Remember and Come Together

May 2025 marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), when WWII ended on European soil.

From 5th to 8th May, towns and villages across the country will be coming together to celebrate. You can expect everything from traditional tea parties and 1940s-style dances to brass bands and beacon lighting ceremonies.

Whether you lived through the war or grew up hearing stories from parents or grandparents, VE Day is a chance to reflect on the bravery, hardship, and spirit of those times.

Here are a few ways you might join in:

Local street parties — Keep an eye out for community events with bunting, scones, and sing-alongs!
Church services or commemorations — Many churches and town halls are hosting services to honour veterans and those lost.
History walks or talks — Discover how your local area contributed to the war effort
Royal events — A national flypast and televised ceremony may bring the whole country together, just like it did 80 years ago.

Even if you simply raise a cuppa at home or share a wartime memory with a grandchild, this is a moment to pause, remember and be proud of how far we have come.

Enjoying the Outdoors This Spring: Gentle Ways to Move and Connect

Spring is the season of fresh starts — and a little fresh air can do wonders for the body and mind.

If you are looking for light, enjoyable ways to get moving and feel connected, here are a few ideas:

1. Gentle Nature Walks

Whether it is a park, canal path, or coastal walk, a short stroll at your own pace can lift your spirits, improve circulation, and ease stiffness.

2. Birdwatching or Gardening

Spotting birds or planting spring flowers can be surprisingly calming. You don’t need much — just a little outdoor space and time to slow down.

3. Visit a Local Market

Farmers' markets are a feast for the senses — colourful produce, homemade treats, and the chance for a friendly chat.

4. Community Activities

Many local groups offer spring outings, picnic clubs or walking groups for older adults. A wonderful way to meet people and share experiences.

Whatever you choose, being outdoors brings a sense of freedom, connection, and joy — even in small doses.

Until next time…

If you are thinking about your financial future or wondering about the options available to you in later life, we are here to help. Just give us a call or drop us a message — no pressure, no jargon, just friendly advice.

Wishing you a joyful May — and if you are attending a VE Day celebration, do not forget the red, white, and blue!

The team at Later Life Property Finance