Cashpoints: Inflation takes 'higher toll on over-55s'

This week's top stories • The true cost of inflation for older people is far greater than that estimated by the official RPI measure , with Britons aged over 55 experiencing price rises at almost 2% higher than this during the past two years. • The number of homes repossessed continued to decline in the third quarter of the year, according to figures published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), but there were warnings the figure may reverse. There were 8,900 repossessions between July and September, down 5% from 9,400 in the second quarter. • Millions of homes may slump in value for years to come , according to one of the country's most respected estate agents. Savills has warned that homes across the UK will drop in value by an average of 7.3% from mid-2010 to the end of 2011. • Do you have any feedback on any of these issues that you want to get off your chest? Email us at [email protected] Feature Where there's a will there's a charitable donation Writing a will is one of the best things you can do to protect your family, allowing you to make sure your assets benefit the people you care about rather than those prescribed by intestacy rules. You can also appoint guardians for your children and put any money you are leaving to them in trust so it is not mishandled before they are old enough to receive it. Bt the arguments for drawing up a will are just as strong if you are single and childless. Read the article in full here Ask the experts: Homebuying Question of the week: " We want to sell a home to our daughter for less than its market value. What are the tax implications?" Our homebuying expert Virginia Wallis says: "The mechanics of the sale are the same as for the sale of any property, except you won't need to involve an estate agent (or pay their fee). As the same solicitor cannot act for both buyer and seller, you and your daughter will need to each arrange a solicitor who will guide you through the buying and selling process …" Read the answer in full here • Any questions? Email our panel of experts on financial concerns, consumer gripes, legal wrangles, debt worries and career-related problems at [email protected] Tools Find a cheaper energy deal Compare gas and electricity tariffs and find the best provider for you