The latest (2014) Budget saw the announcement of a radical liberalisation of the entire concept of pensions as a savings strategy. In short, from April 2015, millions of pension savers aged 55+ will be able to take their entire pension fund in one lump sum, to spend as they wish. There is growing excitement about what this 'wall of money' could mean for property investors, in light of the biggest shake-up of pension rules ever seen.

Specialist property accountant Stephen Fay FCA looks at how the April 2015 pension changes can help property investors to become more successful, or even to exit on a high.

What's happening with pensions in April 2015 exactly?
The latest (2014) Budget saw the announcement of a completely-changed pension world. For the first time, pension savers aged 55+ will be 'trusted' to make their own decisions with their pensions. So, rather than swapping a pension fund for a poor-value annuity, pension savers will be able to take out their pension money and do with it as they please - effectively pensions are now just savings accounts that can be drawn on as needed. No more forced annuities, red-tape, and pension fund charges - if you choose so.

However, there is a tax trade-off as only 25% of pension money can be taken tax-free. Funds taken beyond this amount are taxed at the individual's highest tax rate. Some might say (not me) that the Government has a vested interest in relaxing pension rules as there will be a tax windfall as a result!