🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 3 (from laksa147)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa003.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family/family-financial-planning\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family/family-financial-planning\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family\/family-financial-planning","crawl_time":1775555641,"first_indexed_time":1667472297,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"uk,co,unbiased!www,\/discover\/personal-finance\/family\/family-financial-planning s443","src_root_hash":"4972309154310302003","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Financial planning for your family | Unbiased","meta_descriptions":["How to plan your family's finances, from raising children through education, helping your child buy a home and arranging your family's inheritance"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Raising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be.\nHere’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond.\nMaking a will\nFirst things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to\nmake or update your will\nto protect them in the event of your death.\nContinue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications.\nChildren's savings\nWhen it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time.\nYou can take out a\njunior ISA\n(JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible.\nCompound interest\nover the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school.\nJISAs are available as both cash and\nstocks and shares\n. Talk to a \nfinancial adviser\nabout these options.\nCash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low.\nStock and shares\ncan deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky. \nSome parents look even further ahead and set up\npensions\nfor their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient!\nSaving for education\nAs soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time.\nA fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards.\nRemember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can.\nSimilarly, you should consider setting up\ninvestments\nto help fund their university or college education.\nThis is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think.\nWhether you’re\nsaving for school\n, university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it.\nFind out more about\nsaving for education\n.\nGrowing families - upsize or extend?\nOne of the big \n‘hidden’ costs of having children\nmay be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls.\nLong-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time.\nLocation is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas.\nIdeally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a\nmortgage adviser\nto see how much you can safely borrow.\nIf you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option.\nRemortgaging\ncan free up the funds you need for this.\nSometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost.\nFinancing higher education\nIf you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into\nsafer assets\n(such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right.\nIf your child also\nneeds a student loan\n, this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings.\nPaying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments.\nIf you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to\nbuy student accommodation\n. They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs.\nThe property itself may also become a useful\ninvestment\n. A\nmortgage broker\ncan help you determine whether this would work for your child.\nYour child might like to check out our guide to\nleaving home for the first time\n.\nHelping your children buy homes\nOne of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves.\nThis is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most\nyoung people\nare likely to need parental help.\nThere are many ways in which you can\nhelp your child get a mortgage\n which does not involve handing over large lump sums.\nYou might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and \nsqueeze\nextra value from the money spent on their education..\nTalk to a\nmortgage broker\nor independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own.\nSorting out family inheritance\nYou should have kept your\nwill\nupdated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of.\nAs you enter later life,\nstart to think in more detail\nabout inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death.\nThis planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead.\nWith advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill.\nFind out more about\nlater life planning\n.\nWhen a family member dies\nA death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a\nsignificant financial impact\n, particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner.\nIf you have a\nmortgage\n, you should ensure you have\nlife insurance\nin place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies.\nOn a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them.\nFinally, you will need to find out what\nbereavement benefits\nyou may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation.\nGet financial advice\nWe’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free.\nFind a financial adviser","attrs_markdown":"Pensions & Retirement\n\nMortgages & Property\n\nPersonal Finance\n\nInsurance\n\nTax & Business\n\nAre you an adviser? [Go to Unbiased Pro](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/pro)\n\n[Login](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/login)\n\n# Financial planning for your family\n5 mins read\n\nby Nick Green\n\nLast updated Nov 18, 2024\n\nHow to plan your family's finances, from raising children through education, helping your child buy a home and arranging your family's inheritance.\n\nIn this article\n\n1 of 8: Making a will\n\nRaising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be.\n\nHere’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond.\n\nGet financial advice\n\nWe’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free.\n\n[Find a financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser)\n## Making a will\nFirst things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to [make or update your will](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/write-your-will\/) to protect them in the event of your death.\n\nContinue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications.\n\n## Children's savings\nWhen it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time.\n\nYou can take out a [junior ISA](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/guide-to-isas\/) (JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible.\n\n[Compound interest](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/compound-interest-how-it-works-in-saving-and-investing) over the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school.\n\n[Compound interest calculator](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/compound-interest-calculator)\n\nJISAs are available as both cash and [stocks and shares](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/compare\/compare-junior-stocks-shares-isas). Talk to a [financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/financial-adviser) about these options.\n\nCash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low. [Stock and shares](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/how-to-start-investing-in-stocks-and-shares) can deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky.\n\nSome parents look even further ahead and set up [pensions](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/pensions-retirement\/guide-to-pension-saving\/) for their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient\\!\n\n## Saving for education\nAs soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time.\n\nA fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards.\n\nRemember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can.\n\nSimilarly, you should consider setting up [investments](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/investments-guide) to help fund their university or college education.\n\nThis is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think.\n\nWhether you’re [saving for school](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/how-to-save-and-pay-for-private-school-fees), university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it.\n\nFind out more about [saving for education](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/funding-education\/).\n\n## Growing families - upsize or extend?\nOne of the big [‘hidden’ costs of having children](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/the-true-cost-of-having-children-later-in-life) may be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls.\n\nLong-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time.\n\nLocation is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas.\n\nIdeally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a [mortgage adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) to see how much you can safely borrow.\n\nIf you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option.\n\n[Remortgaging](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/remortgaging-guide\/) can free up the funds you need for this.\n\nSometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost.\n\nGet financial advice\n\nWe’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free.\n\n[Find a financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser)\n## Financing higher education\nIf you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into [safer assets](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/types-of-investments\/) (such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right.\n\nIf your child also [needs a student loan](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/budgeting\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-student-finance), this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings.\n\nPaying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments.\n\nIf you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to [buy student accommodation](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/homebuying-help-from-parents\/). They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs.\n\nThe property itself may also become a useful [investment](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/how-to-invest-in-property-everything-you-need-to-know). A [mortgage broker](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) can help you determine whether this would work for your child.\n\nYour child might like to check out our guide to [leaving home for the first time](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/tips-for-leaving-home\/).\n\n## Helping your children buy homes\nOne of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves.\n\nThis is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most [young people](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/budgeting\/what-are-the-10-best-financial-tips-for-young-adults) are likely to need parental help.\n\nThere are many ways in which you can [help your child get a mortgage](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/homebuying-help-from-parents\/) which does not involve handing over large lump sums.\n\nYou might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and [squeeze](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/how-to-beat-the-big-squeeze-as-the-cost-of-living-rises) extra value from the money spent on their education..\n\nTalk to a [mortgage broker](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) or independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own.\n\n## Sorting out family inheritance\nYou should have kept your [will](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/write-your-will\/) updated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of.\n\nAs you enter later life, [start to think in more detail](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/what-is-a-financial-plan-and-how-can-you-make-one) about inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death.\n\nThis planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead.\n\nWith advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill.\n\nFind out more about [later life planning](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/pensions-retirement\/guide-to-later-life-planning\/).\n\n## When a family member dies\nA death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a [significant financial impact](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/finances-after-death-what-to-do-after-someone-dies), particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner.\n\nIf you have a [mortgage](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property), you should ensure you have [life insurance](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/life-insurance\/) in place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies.\n\nOn a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them.\n\nFinally, you will need to find out what [bereavement benefits](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/funerals\/bereavement-benefits\/) you may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation.\n\nGet financial advice\n\nWe’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free.\n\n[Find a financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser)\n\n![Nick Green](https:\/\/a.storyblok.com\/f\/256227\/9a08dd2679\/c467b20e2e7b6ec9e73f8ae8e470ded1a95689f6.jpeg\/m\/50x0\/filters:quality\\(20\\))\n\nAuthor\n\n[Nick Green](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/authors\/nick-green)\n\nNick Green is a financial journalist writing for Unbiased.co.uk, the site that has helped over 10 million people find financial, business and legal advice. Nick has been writing professionally on money and business topics for over 15 years, and has previously written for leading accountancy firms PKF and BDO.\n\nRelated articles\n\n- [Inheritance tax when your second parent dies](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family\/inheritance-tax-when-your-second-parent-dies)\n- [What is a prenuptial agreement and should I get one?](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family\/prenuptial-agreement)\n- [Can you refuse an inheritance?](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family\/can-you-refuse-an-inheritance)\n\nExplore the topic\n\n- [Family](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family)\n\nGet financial tips and news\n\nReceive financial wisdom in your inbox.\n\nFind me an adviser\n\n- [Financial advisers near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/financial-adviser)\n- [Mortgage brokers near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/mortgage-adviser)\n- [Find an accountant or Bookkeeper](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/accountant)\n- [Get matched to a suitable adviser](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/find-suitable-adviser)\n\nWhat I need to know about\n\n- [News](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news)\n- [Qualified financial advisers](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/financial-adviser)\n- [Mortgage advisers](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/buying-a-home\/mortgage-adviser)\n- [Pension advisers](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement)\n- [Accountants](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business\/running-a-business\/accountant)\n- [Bookkeeper](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business\/running-a-business\/bookkeeping-tips)\n\nTools\n\n- [Pension calculator](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement\/planning-for-retirement\/pension-calculator)\n- [Free pension 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calculator](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement\/planning-for-retirement\/pension-calculator)\n\n[Pension consolidation](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement\/managing-a-pension\/combining-your-pensions)\n\n[Tax on pensions](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement\/managing-a-pension\/tax-on-pensions)\n\n[Best drawdown providers](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/pensions-retirement\/managing-a-pension\/how-to-choose-the-best-drawdown-provider-for-you)\n\n[Free pension review](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/free-pension-check)\n\n[Download our free pension guide](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/free-pension-guide)\n\n[News & insight](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news\/pensions-retirement)\n\n[Sign up for email updates](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/email-updates)\n\nGet help with\n\n[Buying a home](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/buying-a-home)\n\n[Remortgaging](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/remortgaging)\n\n[Buy to let & Renting](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/buy-to-let-renting)\n\n[Equity Release](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/equity-release)\n\n[Ownership & Improvements](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/ownership-improvements)\n\n[Selling a home](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property\/selling-a-home)\n***\n[Overview](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/mortgages-property)\n\nMore Resources\n\n[Find a mortgage broker](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/mortgage-adviser\/mortgages)\n\n[Mortgage brokers near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/mortgage-adviser)\n\n[Mortgage calculator](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/tools\/mortgage-calculator)\n\n[Download our free mortgage guide](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/how-to-get-a-mortgage-free-mortgage-guide)\n\n[Free mortgage review](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/free-mortgage-review)\n\n[News & insight](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news\/mortgages-property)\n\n[Sign up for email updates](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/email-updates)\n\nGet help with\n\n[Financial Advice](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/financial-advice)\n\n[Saving & Investing](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing)\n\n[Budgeting](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/budgeting)\n\n[Family](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/family)\n***\n[Overview](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance)\n\nMore Resources\n\n[Find a financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser)\n\n[Financial advisers near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/financial-adviser)\n\n[Free financial health check](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/free-financial-health-check)\n\n[Free investment review](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/campaigns\/free-investment-check)\n\n[Compound interest calculator](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/compound-interest-calculator)\n\n[News & insight](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news\/personal-finance)\n\n[Sign up for email updates](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/email-updates)\n\nGet help with\n\n[Life insurance](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/insurance\/life-insurance)\n\n[Critical illness insurance](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/insurance\/critical-illness-insurance)\n\n[Income protection insurance](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/insurance\/income-protection-insurance)\n***\n[Overview](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/insurance)\n\nMore Resources\n\n[Find an insurance adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser\/insurance-and-protection)\n\n[Insurance brokers near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/financial-adviser?adviceArea=Insurance%20%26%20protection)\n\n[News & insight](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news\/insurance)\n\n[Sign up for email updates](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/email-updates)\n\nGet help with\n\n[Self assessment](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business\/self-assessment)\n\n[Starting a business](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business\/starting-a-business)\n\n[Running a business](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business\/running-a-business)\n***\n[Overview](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/tax-business)\n\nMore Resources\n\n[Find an adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/accountant)\n\n[Accountants near me](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/advisers\/accountant)\n\n[News & insight](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/news\/tax-business)\n\n[Sign up for email updates](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/consumer\/email-updates)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Raising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be.\n\nHere’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond.\n\n## Making a will\nFirst things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to [make or update your will](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/write-your-will\/) to protect them in the event of your death.\n\nContinue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications.\n\n## Children's savings\nWhen it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time.\n\nYou can take out a [junior ISA](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/guide-to-isas\/) (JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible.\n\n[Compound interest](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/compound-interest-how-it-works-in-saving-and-investing) over the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school.\n\nJISAs are available as both cash and [stocks and shares](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/compare\/compare-junior-stocks-shares-isas). Talk to a [financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/financial-adviser) about these options.\n\nCash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low. [Stock and shares](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/how-to-start-investing-in-stocks-and-shares) can deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky.\n\nSome parents look even further ahead and set up [pensions](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/pensions-retirement\/guide-to-pension-saving\/) for their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient\\!\n\n## Saving for education\nAs soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time.\n\nA fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards.\n\nRemember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can.\n\nSimilarly, you should consider setting up [investments](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/investments-guide) to help fund their university or college education.\n\nThis is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think.\n\nWhether you’re [saving for school](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/how-to-save-and-pay-for-private-school-fees), university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it.\n\nFind out more about [saving for education](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/funding-education\/).\n\n## Growing families - upsize or extend?\nOne of the big [‘hidden’ costs of having children](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/the-true-cost-of-having-children-later-in-life) may be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls.\n\nLong-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time.\n\nLocation is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas.\n\nIdeally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a [mortgage adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) to see how much you can safely borrow.\n\nIf you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option.\n\n[Remortgaging](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/remortgaging-guide\/) can free up the funds you need for this.\n\nSometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost.\n\n## Financing higher education\nIf you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into [safer assets](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/types-of-investments\/) (such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right.\n\nIf your child also [needs a student loan](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/budgeting\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-student-finance), this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings.\n\nPaying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments.\n\nIf you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to [buy student accommodation](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/homebuying-help-from-parents\/). They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs.\n\nThe property itself may also become a useful [investment](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/savings-investing\/how-to-invest-in-property-everything-you-need-to-know). A [mortgage broker](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) can help you determine whether this would work for your child.\n\nYour child might like to check out our guide to [leaving home for the first time](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/tips-for-leaving-home\/).\n\n## Helping your children buy homes\nOne of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves.\n\nThis is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most [young people](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/discover\/personal-finance\/budgeting\/what-are-the-10-best-financial-tips-for-young-adults) are likely to need parental help.\n\nThere are many ways in which you can [help your child get a mortgage](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property\/homebuying-help-from-parents\/) which does not involve handing over large lump sums.\n\nYou might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and [squeeze](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/how-to-beat-the-big-squeeze-as-the-cost-of-living-rises) extra value from the money spent on their education..\n\nTalk to a [mortgage broker](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/match-intro\/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) or independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own.\n\n## Sorting out family inheritance\nYou should have kept your [will](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/write-your-will\/) updated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of.\n\nAs you enter later life, [start to think in more detail](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/what-is-a-financial-plan-and-how-can-you-make-one) about inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death.\n\nThis planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead.\n\nWith advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill.\n\nFind out more about [later life planning](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/pensions-retirement\/guide-to-later-life-planning\/).\n\n## When a family member dies\nA death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a [significant financial impact](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/family-matters\/finances-after-death-what-to-do-after-someone-dies), particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner.\n\nIf you have a [mortgage](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/homes-property), you should ensure you have [life insurance](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/managing-your-money\/life-insurance\/) in place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies.\n\nOn a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them.\n\nFinally, you will need to find out what [bereavement benefits](https:\/\/www.unbiased.co.uk\/life\/funerals\/bereavement-benefits\/) you may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation.\n\nGet financial advice\n\nWe’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free.\n\n[Find a financial adviser](https:\/\/v2.unbiased.co.uk\/enquiry\/financial-adviser)","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Raising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be. Here’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond. Making a will First things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to make or update your will to protect them in the event of your death. Continue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications. Children's savings When it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time. You can take out a junior ISA (JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible. Compound interest over the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school. JISAs are available as both cash and stocks and shares . Talk to a financial adviser about these options. Cash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low. Stock and shares can deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky. Some parents look even further ahead and set up pensions for their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient! Saving for education As soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time. A fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards. Remember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can. Similarly, you should consider setting up investments to help fund their university or college education. This is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think. Whether you’re saving for school , university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it. Find out more about saving for education . Growing families - upsize or extend? One of the big ‘hidden’ costs of having children may be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls. Long-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time. Location is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas. Ideally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a mortgage adviser to see how much you can safely borrow. If you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option. Remortgaging can free up the funds you need for this. Sometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost. Financing higher education If you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into safer assets (such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right. If your child also needs a student loan , this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings. Paying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments. If you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to buy student accommodation . They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs. The property itself may also become a useful investment . A mortgage broker can help you determine whether this would work for your child. Your child might like to check out our guide to leaving home for the first time . Helping your children buy homes One of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves. This is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most young people are likely to need parental help. There are many ways in which you can help your child get a mortgage which does not involve handing over large lump sums. You might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and squeeze extra value from the money spent on their education.. Talk to a mortgage broker or independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own. Sorting out family inheritance You should have kept your will updated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of. As you enter later life, start to think in more detail about inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death. This planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead. With advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill. Find out more about later life planning . When a family member dies A death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a significant financial impact , particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner. If you have a mortgage , you should ensure you have life insurance in place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies. On a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them. Finally, you will need to find out what bereavement benefits you may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation. Get financial advice We’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free. Find a financial adviser
Markdown	Pensions & Retirement Mortgages & Property Personal Finance Insurance Tax & Business Are you an adviser? [Go to Unbiased Pro](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/pro) [Login](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/consumer/login) # Financial planning for your family 5 mins read by Nick Green Last updated Nov 18, 2024 How to plan your family's finances, from raising children through education, helping your child buy a home and arranging your family's inheritance. In this article 1 of 8: Making a will Raising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be. Here’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond. Get financial advice We’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free. [Find a financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/financial-adviser) ## Making a will First things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to [make or update your will](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/write-your-will/) to protect them in the event of your death. Continue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications. ## Children's savings When it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time. You can take out a [junior ISA](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/guide-to-isas/) (JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible. [Compound interest](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/compound-interest-how-it-works-in-saving-and-investing) over the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school. [Compound interest calculator](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/compound-interest-calculator) JISAs are available as both cash and [stocks and shares](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/compare/compare-junior-stocks-shares-isas). Talk to a [financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/financial-adviser) about these options. Cash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low. [Stock and shares](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/how-to-start-investing-in-stocks-and-shares) can deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky. Some parents look even further ahead and set up [pensions](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/pensions-retirement/guide-to-pension-saving/) for their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient\! ## Saving for education As soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time. A fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards. Remember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can. Similarly, you should consider setting up [investments](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/investments-guide) to help fund their university or college education. This is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think. Whether you’re [saving for school](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/how-to-save-and-pay-for-private-school-fees), university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it. Find out more about [saving for education](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/funding-education/). ## Growing families - upsize or extend? One of the big [‘hidden’ costs of having children](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/the-true-cost-of-having-children-later-in-life) may be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls. Long-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time. Location is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas. Ideally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a [mortgage adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) to see how much you can safely borrow. If you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option. [Remortgaging](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/remortgaging-guide/) can free up the funds you need for this. Sometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost. Get financial advice We’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free. [Find a financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/financial-adviser) ## Financing higher education If you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into [safer assets](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/types-of-investments/) (such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right. If your child also [needs a student loan](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/budgeting/everything-you-need-to-know-about-student-finance), this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings. Paying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments. If you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to [buy student accommodation](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/homebuying-help-from-parents/). They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs. The property itself may also become a useful [investment](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/how-to-invest-in-property-everything-you-need-to-know). A [mortgage broker](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) can help you determine whether this would work for your child. Your child might like to check out our guide to [leaving home for the first time](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/tips-for-leaving-home/). ## Helping your children buy homes One of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves. This is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most [young people](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/budgeting/what-are-the-10-best-financial-tips-for-young-adults) are likely to need parental help. There are many ways in which you can [help your child get a mortgage](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/homebuying-help-from-parents/) which does not involve handing over large lump sums. You might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and [squeeze](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/how-to-beat-the-big-squeeze-as-the-cost-of-living-rises) extra value from the money spent on their education.. Talk to a [mortgage broker](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) or independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own. ## Sorting out family inheritance You should have kept your [will](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/write-your-will/) updated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of. As you enter later life, [start to think in more detail](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/what-is-a-financial-plan-and-how-can-you-make-one) about inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death. This planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead. With advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill. Find out more about [later life planning](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/pensions-retirement/guide-to-later-life-planning/). ## When a family member dies A death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a [significant financial impact](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/finances-after-death-what-to-do-after-someone-dies), particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner. If you have a [mortgage](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property), you should ensure you have [life insurance](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/life-insurance/) in place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies. On a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them. Finally, you will need to find out what [bereavement benefits](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/funerals/bereavement-benefits/) you may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation. Get financial advice We’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free. [Find a financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/financial-adviser) ![Nick Green](https://a.storyblok.com/f/256227/9a08dd2679/c467b20e2e7b6ec9e73f8ae8e470ded1a95689f6.jpeg/m/50x0/filters:quality\(20\)) Author [Nick Green](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/authors/nick-green) Nick Green is a financial journalist writing for Unbiased.co.uk, the site that has helped over 10 million people find financial, business and legal advice. Nick has been writing professionally on money and business topics for over 15 years, and has previously written for leading accountancy firms PKF and BDO. Related articles - [Inheritance tax when your second parent dies](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family/inheritance-tax-when-your-second-parent-dies) - [What is a prenuptial agreement and should I get one?](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family/prenuptial-agreement) - [Can you refuse an inheritance?](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family/can-you-refuse-an-inheritance) Explore the topic - [Family](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/family) Get financial tips and news Receive financial wisdom in your inbox. 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Readable Markdown	Raising a family is a marathon effort, as costly as it is rewarding. But financial planning for your family is easier than it sounds, because you know what the key milestones will be. Here’s how to plan effectively for each one: from the birth of your first, to your youngest leaving home – and beyond. ## Making a will First things first: as soon as your first child is born, you need to [make or update your will](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/write-your-will/) to protect them in the event of your death. Continue to update your will for each child that you have to ensure there are no complications. ## Children's savings When it comes to saving, children have one very important advantage: time. You can take out a [junior ISA](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/guide-to-isas/) (JISA) for your child as soon as possible, paying into it regularly if possible. [Compound interest](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/compound-interest-how-it-works-in-saving-and-investing) over the years can build it into a substantial nest egg by the time they leave school. JISAs are available as both cash and [stocks and shares](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/compare/compare-junior-stocks-shares-isas). Talk to a [financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/financial-adviser) about these options. Cash is often seen as safer but can be eroded by inflation if interest rates are low. [Stock and shares](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/how-to-start-investing-in-stocks-and-shares) can deliver greater long-term growth, especially if you plan to leave the money untouched for a long time, but it can be risky. Some parents look even further ahead and set up [pensions](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/pensions-retirement/guide-to-pension-saving/) for their children. This unusual approach can deliver some impressive results – for the very patient\! ## Saving for education As soon as your child is born, you know they will be starting secondary school in 11 years’ time. A fixed milestone is an investor’s best friend as it gives you a definite target to work towards. Remember, even state-funded education can be costly, with expenses such as uniforms and school trips to cover, so it makes sense to start building up a ‘big school fund’ as early as you can. Similarly, you should consider setting up [investments](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/investments-guide) to help fund their university or college education. This is considerably more costly – but you have much more time, 18 years or more, so you may not need to pay in as much as you think. Whether you’re [saving for school](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/how-to-save-and-pay-for-private-school-fees), university or both, an adviser can recommend a portfolio of investments designed to deliver growth within each fixed timeframe, so the money can achieve maximum growth and is ready exactly when you need it. Find out more about [saving for education](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/funding-education/). ## Growing families - upsize or extend? One of the big [‘hidden’ costs of having children](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/the-true-cost-of-having-children-later-in-life) may be the need for more space. The more kids you have, the more rooms you need, especially if you have both boys and girls. Long-term planning is crucial here. Consider how many children you hope to have as you don’t want to move every time. Location is also key; once you might have cared about being close to good nightlife, now you'll likely care about school catchment areas. Ideally, you want your home for at least the next 10 years, so talk to a [mortgage adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) to see how much you can safely borrow. If you love your current home but need more space, extending may be an option. [Remortgaging](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/remortgaging-guide/) can free up the funds you need for this. Sometimes a mortgage broker can source a deal that lowers your repayments or keeps them the same so you can add space to your home without any immediate extra cost. ## Financing higher education If you’ve invested in your child’s higher education, then monitor this portfolio carefully in the last few years and perhaps move it into [safer assets](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/types-of-investments/) (such as cash). An adviser can help you to time this right. If your child also [needs a student loan](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/budgeting/everything-you-need-to-know-about-student-finance), this only needs to be repaid once they reach a certain level of earnings. Paying off these loans early is not usually recommended, so a lump sum may be better used in savings or investments. If you have the funds, one way to help your child may be to [buy student accommodation](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/homebuying-help-from-parents/). They could rent out other rooms to pay the mortgage and save significantly on living costs. The property itself may also become a useful [investment](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/savings-investing/how-to-invest-in-property-everything-you-need-to-know). A [mortgage broker](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) can help you determine whether this would work for your child. Your child might like to check out our guide to [leaving home for the first time](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/tips-for-leaving-home/). ## Helping your children buy homes One of the last big steps of being a parent is seeing your child set up a home for themselves. This is a lot more challenging than it used to be, so most [young people](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/discover/personal-finance/budgeting/what-are-the-10-best-financial-tips-for-young-adults) are likely to need parental help. There are many ways in which you can [help your child get a mortgage](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property/homebuying-help-from-parents/) which does not involve handing over large lump sums. You might even be able to help them onto the housing ladder while they’re still at university and [squeeze](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/how-to-beat-the-big-squeeze-as-the-cost-of-living-rises) extra value from the money spent on their education.. Talk to a [mortgage broker](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/match-intro/mortgage-adviser?primaryAdviceArea=mortgages) or independent financial adviser about the best way to help your child find a home of their own. ## Sorting out family inheritance You should have kept your [will](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/write-your-will/) updated regularly to ensure your family is taken care of. As you enter later life, [start to think in more detail](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/what-is-a-financial-plan-and-how-can-you-make-one) about inheritance planning and whether your family will be exposed to inheritance tax in the event of your death. This planning is ongoing, perhaps lasting a decade or more, so talk to an adviser when you still have many healthy years ahead. With advice and forethought, you can manage your estate to minimise any future inheritance tax bill. Find out more about [later life planning](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/pensions-retirement/guide-to-later-life-planning/). ## When a family member dies A death in the family is always a major upheaval. Besides being an emotional time, it can also have a [significant financial impact](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/family-matters/finances-after-death-what-to-do-after-someone-dies), particularly if the person who died was the main or sole earner. If you have a [mortgage](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/homes-property), you should ensure you have [life insurance](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/managing-your-money/life-insurance/) in place to pay off the loan if one of the mortgage holders dies. On a personal level, you will have to arrange the funeral for your loved one and decide how you want to commemorate them. Finally, you will need to find out what [bereavement benefits](https://www.unbiased.co.uk/life/funerals/bereavement-benefits/) you may be eligible for to support you in your changed financial situation. Get financial advice We’ll find a professional perfectly matched to your needs. Getting started is easy, fast and free. [Find a financial adviser](https://v2.unbiased.co.uk/enquiry/financial-adviser)
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