David Scothern

2021 Reading Challenge – Part 4

I had set the goal of completing 104 new books in 2021. This includes physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks. I ended up completing 119, which was frustrating because after completing the initial goal early, I set an internal goal of 120 by year-end, which would have been ten books per month. The full list ofContinue reading “2021 Reading Challenge – Part 4”

Part 114

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. The first blog post of 2022 is a tragic one, as I report the passing of our cat Bobby. I take a look at how positive Covid tests impacted our Christmas, and look ahead to 2022. First, the Quote of the Week: Quote of the WeekContinue reading “Part 114”

Financial Resolutions for 2022

According to a YouGov poll, one of the most common New Year’s Resolutions is to save money and/or improve finances. The poll reports that over 40% of respondents had some form of financial resolution. It’s also a commonly accepted fact that many people overspend at Christmas which leads to a spiral of debt. The sadContinue reading “Financial Resolutions for 2022”

Part 113

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. In the final post of 2021 I look back at the progress I’ve made on my FIRE journey this year. Also, a break from hammering the Tories as I highlight what could be the stupidest thing I’ve read in a long time. There are the usualContinue reading “Part 113”

Part 112

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. This week I take a look at capitalism, and why I think criticisms of it as an economic model are often misplaced. Also, another week and another Tory shambles. There are the usual financial updates, but first the Quote of the Week: Quote of the Week Continue reading “Part 112”

Part 111

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. A shorter post than normal this week as I’ve not been feeling too good over the weekend. This week I take a look at yet another Tory disaster. Also, a brief look at financial mistakes. Finally, the usual financial updates. As always we start with theContinue reading “Part 111”

Part 110

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. This week I discuss the relationship between the brain and mind, and how physical and mental health interact. Also, a look ahead to projected investment income in 2022 and 2023. FIrst, the Quote of the Week: Quote of the Week Mental health is weird. The mindContinue reading “Part 110”

Part 109

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. This week I report on a horrible week for the stock market. Also, a change of plan for the next BTL purchase. I take a look at some basic investing rules, and how someone should start their investment journey. First, the Quote of the Week: QuoteContinue reading “Part 109”

Part 108

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. This week I tackle a reader request, and look at pensions. Also, a brief look at HS2. It is only a brief look because once I start on Tory incompetence, I find it difficult to stop. Also, the usual financial updates, and another disappointing property viewing. Continue reading “Part 108”

Part 107

Hello and welcome back to Mortgage Advisor on FIRE. This week I discuss the developing issue in UK care homes as staff who refuse the vaccine are sacked. Also, an update on our BTL search, and a rant about customer service (again). First up, the Quote of the Week: Quote of the Week We haveContinue reading “Part 107”