Ashley's blog

Ashley Shepherd is the founder and managing director at Over50choices. With over 30 years’ experience in financial services, he has held senior roles in building societies, banks and insurance companies.

Is Equity Release a good idea in 2021?

Equity release could be a good idea if want extra money for home or garden improvements, to help family financially or as additional retirement income. An equity release mortgage lets you free up tax free cash without having to move home and there are no monthly repayments. However releasing equity is not suitable for everyone.

How old is too old for life insurance? Image

06th Jul 2021

How old is too old for life insurance?

In fact, you are never too old - or too young - to think about your life insurance needs

Choosing life insurance for your parent Image

22nd Jun 2021

Choosing life insurance for your parent

We get more involved in our parents financial decisions as they get older amp; helping them to choose life insurance could be a wise decision

Can equity release pay off an interest only mortgage? Image

21st May 2021

Can equity release pay off an interest only mortgage?

Looking for a way to pay off your interest only mortgage at the end of the term? Equity release could help. Find out how

What is the nearest crematorium to me Image

15th May 2021

What is the nearest crematorium to me

When arranging a funeral you have the flexibility to choose any UK crematorium, regardless of whether it’s privately owned or run by the council

How much equity can I release from my home? Image

26th Mar 2021

How much equity can I release from my home?

The maximum amount of equity you can release from your home can be as high as 60% of the property value. However the total equity available to you will depend on your age and the value of your home. Usually the older you are, the more equity you can release.

What happens to equity release when you die Image

22nd Mar 2021

What happens to equity release when you die

Equity release is repaid when you die or move into long term care, usually from the proceeds of the sale of your property. Read more.

Are Funeral Plans better than Over 50s Life Insurance? Image

19th Jan 2021

Are Funeral Plans better than Over 50s Life Insurance?

With prepaid funeral plans and over 50 life insurance to choose from, how do you know which is the best option?

All you need to know about life insurance over 60 Image

19th Nov 2020

All you need to know about life insurance over 60

Yes you can get life insurance over 60. Find out what cover you can get and compare quotes from leading insurance providers for free in minutes.

09th Nov 2020

What to write on a sympathy card

Writing a sympathy card isn’t easy. Naturally, you worry about saying the wrong thing, and upsetting our friend or relation at an already difficult time. Feeling this way is perfectly normal, but even the briefest message can mean a lot and comfort the bereaved person, so it's always worth making the effort.

How does the cremation process work in the UK? Image

22nd Oct 2020

How does the cremation process work in the UK?

Little is known about the cremation process. Myths surrounding multiple cremations and recycled coffins are all common place, however the truth about cremation is somewhat different

How much is stamp duty on a house? Image

05th Aug 2020

How much is stamp duty on a house?

The amount of stamp duty you pay on property depends on the purchase price. Usually property valued up to £125,000 is tax free whereas property valued between £125,001 and £250,000 is taxed at 2%. However, this has now changed with the recent introduction of the stamp duty holiday.