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Supply-demand imbalance narrows as rates fall

For the property market, there are strong parallels between January and September this year, according to Knight Frank. The number of sub-4% mortgages is growing as financial markets bet on multiple rate cuts over the next year as inflation is tamed. It was a similar story in the early weeks of 2024. Knight Frank’s head [...]

New housing policies: Angela Rayner’s speech at Labour Party Conference

Angela Rayner set out measures to protect renters from fire safety defects, damp and mould in her speech at the Labour Party conference yesterday. The deputy prime minister and housing secretary, committed to “building homes fit for the future”, while also pledging to bring forward a Remediation Acceleration Plan this autumn to speed up the [...]

Rogue letting agency ordered to pay £50,000 for a series of offences

An agency in North West London has been found guilty of a series of offences under the Housing Act 2004 at two Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Camden. At Highbury Corner Magistrates Court, London Living Group Limited of 1a Chalk Farm Parade, Adelaide Road, London, England, NW3 2BN and its company director, Alvaro Odeh-Torro, [...]

Estate agency touting yields limited success as over 90% of homes sold with first agent

Some estate agents believe that more than 50% of homes sell with a second agent, but this is simply not the case, according to property data and analytics company TwentyCi. This stat regarding more than half of homes being sold with a second agent has been floating around the market for a number of years, [...]

Agent reveals massive corruption and forgery by tenants on industrial scale

An agent claims he and his peers in other agencies face massive struggles with forged IDs, digitally-altered supporting documents and undeclared financial issues. In the last month Benham and Reeves, a London firm, detected eight forged passports or IDs; 40 digitally-altered bank statements, utility bills, payslips or proof of address; 50 forged employment references; and [...]

Record number of former rentals up for sale

New figures out today show the rental housing crisis is worsening – with the number of former rental homes up for sale hitting record highs The NRLA said the data, from property portal Rightmove, is bad news for all tenants looking for a home, with a bold new approach needed if the Government is to [...]

Landlords ‘forced to sell up’ over Government’s energy upgrade plans

New rules mean warmer homes for tenants, but upgrades may be expensive Landlords may choose to sell their properties due to the cost of meeting Government energy efficiency targets for rented homes, experts believe. The Government confirmed this week that all rented properties in England must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of 'C' or [...]

WARNING: Eviction reforms will make landlords ‘choosier’ about tenants

Landlord Action’s Paul Shamplina (main image) has predicted a rise in landlords using rent guarantee insurance as well as tougher referencing to protect themselves against the fall-out of eviction reforms. A perfect storm of tighter grounds for possession and the end of Section 21, along with a lack of investment in the courts and a chronic shortage of bailiffs – [...]

Airbnb boss reveals plans to go into longer-term property rentals

Landlords may soon be able to rent their homes out via Airbnb to more than just holiday makers, its co-founder has revealed. The CEO of Airbnb Brian Chesky (main image) yesterday told a conference in the US that he considers ‘longer term rentals’ of more than 28-days duration to be the next big growth area [...]

Buy-to-let landlords head for the exit: Estate agents say many are already selling up – as another tax hike looms

Estate agents and new figures reveal that buy-to-let may be losing its appeal Buy-to-let landlords are heading for the exit, says estate agents, as higher mortgage rates, tightened regulation and unfavourable tax changes encourage more to sell up. There have been 1.53million property sales made by landlords since the start of 2016, according to property [...]

Understanding Common House Prices in the UK

Factors Influencing House Prices in the UK Before delving into specific prices, it's important to understand the key factors that influence house prices across the UK: Location: The old adage "location, location, location" holds true. Properties in London and the South East typically command higher prices than those in other parts of the UK. Proximity [...]

The 12 key provisions in the new Renters’ Rights Bill

This blog post analyses the 12 key provisions in the Labour government’s proposed new law for the private rented sector, the Renters’ Rights Bill, published on 11 September 2024. Even though Labour have a large majority and are committed to enhancing renters’ rights as soon as possible, this is still just a draft Bill. It may [...]

How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage in the UK?

When you're looking to buy a home in the UK, one of the most important questions you will face is: How much can I borrow for a mortgage? Understanding how much you can afford is essential to make the right decision about your future home and to narrow down your property search. The amount you [...]

Different Places : Cheapest Area to Rent in London?

London, one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse cities, is also notorious for its high cost of living, particularly when it comes to renting. For many, finding affordable property to rent in London can seem like a daunting task. However, with careful research and the use of effective home search sites, it is possible [...]

Private landlords leaving the rental market, new research shows

Private landlords look to be leaving the rental market at a record pace, but will this prove to be a problem or an opportunity for private tenants? Private landlords look to be leaving the rental market at a record pace, according to research from the property website Rightmove. It says rising costs, taxes and legislation [...]

How to Find Out Who the Landlord is for a Property in the UK

When renting a property in the UK, whether it's a flat in London or a house in the countryside, it’s essential to know who your landlord is. Understanding the identity of your landlord helps protect your rights as a tenant and ensures you have a point of contact for any issues that might arise during [...]

Deposit Alternatives – better for landlords than tenants, say TDS

The chief executive of the Tenancy Deposit Service says the burgeoning number of deposit alternative services may represent good news for landlords, but possibly less so for tenants. Steve Harriott says such schemes are effectively just an insurance premium, and he worries that some tenants may believe that this effectively lifts any responsibility from them [...]

Labour tax change for holiday lets will hit local economies – claim

The abolition of the furnished holiday lettings tax regime - confirmed earlier this week - will punish local economies, according to the Country Land and Business Association. The CLA’s statement follows the UK government’s publishing of draft legislation to remove the FHL tax regime from April 2025. The measure was originally floated by former Chancellor [...]

Tenant who threatened gas engineer sent to fix boiler faces jail

A tenant in Scotland who admitted threatening behaviour towards a gas engineer who his landlord had booked to fix the property's gas boiler is to face jail. 57-year-old Steven Bracy, who had been arrested previously when police arrived at his flat to break up a cannabis operation, refused to give gas engineer Ian Higgins access [...]

Investing in commercial property – is now a good time to start?

Investing in commercial property – is now a good time to start? Tom Entwistle talks about the prospects of investing in commercial property. Commercial property is an alternative asset class to residential and depending on your own circumstances, it may be a sensible way of diversifying your overall investment portfolio risk. By the way you [...]

Labour confirms minimum EPC ‘band C’ for rented homes

Labour has confirmed that it will require all private sector landlords to bring their properties up to a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) band C by 2030. Energy Security and Net Zero minister Miatta Fahnbulleh (main image, inset) told MPs that “this government is committed to reducing the number of fuel poor households in England. “We will require [...]

Landlord loses long-running ‘battle of the staircase’ with council

An HMO landlord has lost his appeal against an improvement notice ordering him to update a 'paddle staircase' in a case that highlights the surprising lengths some councils will go to enforce licencing rules. A paddle staircase (pictured) is one that uses special 'paddle' steps that enable the use of a steep staircase at more [...]

HMOs do not deny homes to families and first time buyers

A councillor in the North of England has pushed back against unlikely claims that large firms operating HMOs are ‘taking away his town’s family homes’. Colleagues in Barnsley calling for tougher regulations in the sector claim HMOs are shrinking the available housing stock, a common compliant by those criticising the sector. Councillor Steve Bullcock says: “We cannot [...]

Landlord fined for failing to provide documents to council

The landlord of a suspected HMO has been fined for not producing tenancy agreements and bank statements relating to tenants.Daria Smith, the co-owner of a property in Swindon, pleaded guilty to not complying with a Section 235 Notice, which is a breach of Section 236 (1) of the Housing Act 2004.Smith was sent a notice [...]

AI firm launches that pairs up tenants with ideal rental properties

A new tech start-up using AI to pair tenants with the most suitable rented homes has been launched. Rentsmart claims to save hours of searching for listings on rental platforms by coming up with the most relevant properties and making house-hunters immediately aware when a property matching their requirements becomes available. The website – which is currently [...]

Rent vs. Buy Property in the UK: Which is the Best Option?

When considering a move in the UK, one of the most significant decisions you'll face is whether to rent or buy a property. This decision has long-term financial implications, lifestyle consequences, and it impacts your overall quality of life. This article delves into the pros and cons of renting and buying property in the UK, [...]

Finding the Best Apartment in London: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding the perfect apartment in London can be both exciting and daunting. With its vast array of neighbourhoods, varying price ranges, and unique properties, the capital offers something for everyone—whether you're a young professional, a student, or a family. However, navigating this expansive market requires careful consideration and strategic planning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll [...]

The Worthiness of the investment : Buy Property in London

London, the capital city of England, is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and economic significance, London attracts millions of people each year. Whether you're considering moving to London, investing in property, or simply curious about the real estate market, the question often [...]

Can Foreigners Rent Property in London?

London, a bustling metropolis rich in history, culture, and opportunities, attracts people from all corners of the globe. Its diverse and vibrant character, along with its status as a global financial hub, makes it a sought-after destination not just for tourists but also for those looking to work and live there. One of the common [...]

Summer interest rate cut possible, says Bank deputy

The Bank of England has given its strongest hint yet that interest rates could be cut this summer. Bank deputy governor Ben Broadbent said in a speech that a rate cut at "some time" over the summer was "possible". His comments come ahead of figures on Wednesday that are expected to show a sharp drop [...]

Navigating the London Property Market: A Guide for Foreigners Renting in 2024

London, a global city teeming with opportunities and cultural experiences, is a top destination for expatriates from around the world. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or personal reasons, understanding the nuances of renting property in London is crucial. This guide will provide an in-depth look at how foreigners can best navigate the London rental [...]

Cheapest Areas to Rent in London in 2024: Affordable Living in the Capital

London, the dynamic capital of the United Kingdom, offers a truly unique living experience that combines historical charm with the vibrancy of modern life. As a global city, it stands out for its incredible diversity, cultural richness, limitless opportunities and vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy, also carries a [...]

LGIM boss calls for fewer ‘unscrupulous’ buy-to-let landlords in Britain

A top executive at Legal and General Investment Management (LGIM) has called for fewer buy-to-let landlords in Britain. Global head of real assets at L&G, Bill Hughes, has lambasted what he describes as “unscrupulous” landlords, accusing many of providing poor quality housing and services for tenants. Hughes, who is leading L&G’s charge into the build-to-rent sector, said [...]

The self-storage boom: lifestyle choice or indictment of UK housing crisis?

Lock-ups are being reinvented and marketed as more than just storage amid overcrowding and record rent rises. Forget the gym membership and juicing regime: the new must-have to boost personal wellbeing is a self-storage unit. At least, that is the call from a new company urging space-squeezed thirtysomething renters to accept that they cannot afford [...]

Landlords warned of huge rise in tenant fraud attempts

An analysis of over 600,000 tenancy applications has found that fraudulent applications rose by 140% last year.The analysis, carried out by PropTech supplier Goodlord, found that payslip fraud was the most common way tenants try to trick referencing systems.To carry out the analysis, a sample size of more than 300,000 tenancy applications from 2022 was [...]

Buy-to-let landlords are using limited companies to cut tax… but it could actually be costing them MORE

Limited company landlords can offset mortgage costs against their tax bill  This isn't possible for those owning properties in their own name  But a company structure brings higher rates and costs - so is it really cheaper?  In recent years increasing numbers of buy-to-let investors have been buying properties via a limited company, rather than [...]

UK House Hunters Speed Up Plans to Beat Price Hike, Survey Says

More London respondents keen to accelerate their home purchase High mortgage rates caused demand for homes to weaken in 2024 Almost half of UK house hunters are set to accelerate their purchase plans this year, with many fearing that prices are about to climb again, according to a survey. Some 42% of wannabe homebuyers are [...]

UK inflation falls to 3.4% – lowest level for almost two and a half years

Recap: Inflation falls to lowest level in over two years We'll be closing this page soon, so here's a quick summary of what we've learned this morning: UK inflation fell to 3.4% for the year to February - the lowest level in almost two and a half years But that doesn't mean the cost of living is [...]

Estate agents warned about potential problems caused by invasive bamboo

Homeowners have long been warned that invasive bamboo can be more damaging to a property if left unchecked, with surveyors increasingly flagging it up as an issue when affected properties are bought and sold, forcing sellers to either take action to remove it or accept a discount on the price to reflect removal costs. Between [...]

Population Projections have repercussions for Private Rental Sector

The Government quietly announced population projections towards the end of January that could have major implications for the types of homes we need going forward and, in particular, the private rental sector (PRS).According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the UK population is projected to grow by 9.9% to 73.7 million between 2021 and [...]

Airbnb bans hosts from using indoor security cameras in rentals

Airbnb is banning the use of security cameras inside rental properties. In an update on its policy, the company said its rules for hosts would change on April 30. It said this would bar the use of indoor security cameras across all properties let through the platform, after oncerns about guests’ privacy. Historically Airbnb had allowed security cameras in [...]

Changes to various permitted development rights: consultation

Scope of the consultation Topic of this consultation: This consultation contains proposed changes to the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, as amended. It covers the following areas: Changes to certain permitted development rights which enable householders to improve and enlarge their homes. Changes to the building upwards permitted development rights [...]

Gove says landlords will face Section 21 ban ‘before election’

Housing secretary Michael Gove has told theBBC that he will outlaw Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions before the GeneralElection, which has to take place before the end of January next year. The announcement by Gove in answer to a question during the BBC Laura Kuenssberg show over the and is a big U-turn by the [...]

Short-term LETs rules to Protect Communities and keep Homes Available

Local residents will be protected from being pushed out of their communities by excessive short-term lets thanks to changes in planning rules. Planning permission will be required for future short-term lets Mandatory national register will provide valuable information and help ensure accommodation is safe Proposals will give communities greater control over future growth Homeowners can continue [...]

‘How councils deal with private sector landlords is the next Post Office scandal’ – claim

The way private landlords are treated by councils will be exposed as the ‘the next Post Office scandal’ it’s been claimed. Des Taylor, a director of Landlord Licensing & Defence, a company that helps landlords comply with regulations and defend themselves against council actions, said that tenants are treated in a substandard way by local [...]

Affordable housing loan scheme gets £3bn boost to build 20,000 new homes

Government-backed loan fund known as the affordable homes scheme is getting a £3bn uplift, which is expected to deliver 20,000 new homes. The expansion of the Affordable Homes Scheme, which provides low-cost loans to housing providers, will support thousands of new homes. For the first time, the scheme can also be used to upgrade existing [...]

Want to know the best time of year to sell your home?

I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.   As the winter months draw to a close, the arrival of springtime and longer days can kick-start home-moving plans for many. More people start their [...]

Evergrande: Crisis-hit Chinese property giant ordered to liquidate

A court in Hong Kong has ordered the liquidation of debt-laden Chinese property giant Evergrande. Judge Linda Chan said "enough is enough", after the troubled developer repeatedly failed to come up with a plan to restructure its debts. The firm has been the poster child of China's real estate crisis with more than $300bn (£236bn) [...]

Labour MP Says Leasehold System Is Trapping People In Homes They Can’t Sell

Labour MP Barry Gardiner has put forward an amendment to the Leasehold and Freehold Bill to reform service charges and remove another income stream for freeholders, as he continues to campaign for the abolition of the leasehold system. The MP for Brent North has campaigned to end the leasehold system for more than two decades, and [...]

Bournemouth high rise fire caused by electric bike

Over 50 firefighters were called to YMCA Bournemouth on Westover Road at around 1.30am on December 18 after a fire erupted in one of the flats on the fifth floor. Following an investigation by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service it was found that a converted electric bike was the cause of the fire. [...]

Up to ONE MILLION new rental homes needed in just seven years

A new analysis of the private rental sector suggests that between 800,000 and one million more homes are required to meet growing demand by 2031. Savills - an estate agency which is a long-time stalwart of Build To Rent - has looked at the private rental sector overall, and not just BTR. It has calculated [...]

Tenants face losing deposit as 83% of landlords report tenancy agreements being breached

A total of 83% of landlords have had tenants breach their tenancy agreement Most common breaches include not keeping the property sufficiently clean Other breaches include keeping a pet without the landlord's permission  More than eight out of ten landlords say they have had a tenant breach their tenancy agreement, according to new research. Direct [...]

Cheapest mortgage of 3.94% hits market, but will rates fall further?

Rates have dropped significantly since summer - with small lender Generation Home now leading the way Lenders have continued to cut rates following a drop in inflation to 3.9 per cent in November (Photo: Isabel Infantes/Getty) A new mortgage deal priced below 4 per cent has hit the market just before the new year, sparking [...]

Landlord to lose £643,000 leasehold flat after listing on Airbnb

A landlord looks set to lose his leasehold flat after being caught renting it out on Airbnb by his freeholder. A First Tier Property Tribunal ruled that Gabriel Ben-Soussan had breached the clause of the lease which stated it was not to be used other than as a single private residence “for occupation by an individual or [...]

Government allows houses to be split into flats without planning permission: Who are the winners and losers?

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt set out the measures in the Autumn Statement  Supporters say it will create more homes, helping first-time buyers and renters But others have warned it could create controversy among neighbours  The Government is planning to scrap the need for planning permission for property owners who want to convert a house into two [...]

‘Airspace’ above Battersea house to be auctioned

The future of London housing might lie in the sky, as a plot of "airspace" goes under the hammer this month in Battersea, south-west London. Space at 47 Northcote Road is being offered with a guide price of £10,000. Despite there being no planning permission to build, auctioneer Phillip Arnold thinks it could fetch more. [...]

Airbnb listings info to be shared with government data service

The UK’s Office for National Statistics will soon have access to data on short-term lets listed on Airbnb, Booking .com and Expedia Group as a result of a new sharing agreement.There has long been criticism of the short lets sector for an absence of hard data on its size and growth; in turn, critics of [...]

Even upmarket landlords face ‘stark choices’ now says leading property figure

Landlords in the capital’s prime rental sector are facing a stark choice between topping up a rent shortfall or selling up. Luxury residential property expert, Jo Eccles, reports that highly leveraged landlords are coming under serious cost pressures as fixed rate mortgage deals come to an end. Stress testing by lenders means some are finding they [...]

It’s tough out there: Cracks in UK housebuilding sector grow by the day

Insolvencies rocket as army of small firms – seen as backbone of the sector – struggle with falling demand, rising interest rates and higher costs. It’s tough out there,” says Steve Midgley, the managing director of Fairgrove Homes. His east Midlands firm, which builds about 50 homes a year, is one of Britain’s army of [...]

EXCLUSIVE: Lettings agency asks landlord to be guarantor for own tenants rent!

A well-known lettings agency has made the shocking move of asking a landlord to be a guarantor for their own tenants, it has been revealed. Julie Ford, who is a mediator at PRS Mediation, says a female landlord has been in touch with her to ask her for help with a problem and during the [...]

What is an EWS1 Form

If you live in a flat, or are considering buying one, your mortgage lender may ask to see the building’s EWS1 form. Here’s everything you need to know about EWS1 forms, who needs one, how to get one, who pays and the associated issues. In the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire disaster new fire [...]

Landlord ordered to pay tenants more than £140,000 in compensation

Michael Gove has slammed one of Britain’s biggest social landlords for letting tenants down. The housing secretary told L&Q: “You have failed your residents”. He also called the chief executive of housing provider to a meeting after the housing ombudsman ordered the landlord to pay tenants more than £140,000 in compensation. The move follows a [...]

Before election, UK’s Sunak recommits to housing promises

LONDON, July 24 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recommitted on Monday to promises to boost homebuilding by the next election to tackle a lack of housing stock that has alienated many younger voters who pay high rents and are unable to buy. With a national election expected next year, Sunak's governing Conservatives have [...]

Michael Gove calls for delay in rented housing energy efficiency plans

Housing secretary Michael Gove wants the government to ‘relax the pace’ of EPC reforms expected from private landlords. In a Sunday Telegraph interview yesterday, following the Uxbridge by-election, Gove indicated that the timetable for changing minimum energy efficiency standards for private rented housing would be altered. In January 2021 the government closed its consultation on [...]

Gove to relax rules in England to allow more shops to be converted into homes

Housing secretary’s plans aim to address the housing crisis as he says country must make ‘better use’ of buildings Michael Gove is planning to change planning laws to pave the way for more home extensions and conversions of shops into houses in England in efforts to address the housing crisis. As part of plans due [...]

Labour abolishes pledge to introduce rent controls

Labour has scrapped a pledge to introduce rent controls if it wins the next general election – after endorsing the policy last year. Lisa Nandy said last September that she wanted to give local authorities the power to freeze rents, telling the party conference: “Doing nothing is not an option.” But speaking yesterday, the shadow [...]

Government introduces landmark reforms to deliver fairer private rented sector for tenants and landlords

Eleven million tenants across England will benefit from safer, fairer and higher quality homes thanks to a once-in-a-generation overhaul of housing laws. The Renters’ (Reform) Bill, introduced to Parliament today (17 May 2023), delivers the government’s 2019 manifesto commitment to abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions which will empower renters to challenge poor landlords without fear [...]

Purplebricks sold to rival for £1 after senior team throw in the towel

Purplebricks, which at one stage was used by thousands of landlords to manage their properties, has announced that its assets and business are to be sold to rival Strike for £1, pending approval by its shareholders. Any funds remaining in the firm – some £5.5 million – are to be kept back to pay off [...]

Renters Reform Bill – just a delay or a major rethink?

The government has back-tracked on its decision to publish the long-awaited Renters Reform Bill this week.The Mirror newspaper reports that “procedural issues” have been blamed for the delay in introducing the Bill to Parliament.The Bill was first pledged by the Conservative administration back in 2019 and only last week Housing Secretary Michael Gove told Sky News [...]

Leasehold reform ‘will not be in King’s speech’ says former housing minister

Former housing minister Lord Greenhalgh has expressed doubts that leasehold reforms will be included in the King’s Speech this autumn. In an interview with Leasehold Knowledge, he said that despite being very complex legislation, the background work had been done. “Even if you ran out of time and you weren’t able to get the Bill through [...]

BREAKING: Landlords ‘to be given three more years’ to reach EPC minimum

Ministers are considering a punitive scheme to fine landlords up to £30,000 if they fail to upgrade their properties to a minimum band C by an extended deadline of 2028 instead of the current 2025.   The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero had previously proposed a deadline of 2025 for newly-let rentals to achieve an [...]

First rental eviction prompted by tighter EPC rules takes place in Midlands

An 80-year-old disabled woman is being evicted from her home after more than 60 years because her property won’t pass tighter new EPC rules, a case which is believed to be the first of its kind. Thoresby Estate which owns Anne Marsh’s property in Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire (pictured), says it is no longer viable to rent it [...]

Chadwell Heath rental home gets a whopping 52 offers

In a display of competitiveness in the rental market, one Chadwell Heath home reportedly received 52 offers last week. The landlord for the two-bedroom house in Cornshaw Road was spoilt for choice as 162 viewings were booked for the property, flooding the street with a long queue of interested parties. Adeel Hasnain, a prospective tenant, had travelled all the way from [...]

Leading economics expert says ‘enough is enough’ for bruised landlords

Sunday Times’ economics editor David Smith has expressed sympathy for private landlords who he believes feel bruised by increasing regulation in the sector. He says higher mortgage rates might be the straw that breaks the camel’s back for many, with some already selling up and financial institutions moving in by building homes to rent and becoming [...]

Landlords warned over Section 13 rent rises after Court of Appeal decision

The Court of Appeal has dismissed the case of a landlord who tried to evict a tenant in arrears after getting the date wrong on a Section 13 notice. Tenant Victoria Whiteland had lived in her cottage in Llanbydder, Carmarthenshire, since May 1991 but although the rent was due every Monday, had always paid on [...]

BTL landlords welcome landmark ruling from the Supreme Court

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has welcomed a landmark ruling from the Supreme Court which provides vital clarification about the responsibilities of so called ‘rent-to-rent’ companies. The ruling in the case of Rakusen v Jepsen will have important implications for the private rented sector as a whole. In the case, the landlord, Rakusen, agreed to [...]

A Thriving PRS is Vital to A Vibrant Economy

Exclusive new research commissioned by the NRLA shows a vibrant PRS is vital to the social and economic wellbeing of the country. Here, in his regular column for Property Notify®, Ben Beadle, chief executive of the NRLA, explains the importance of the findings – and what the Government needs to do next. Soaring costs, rising interest rates [...]

Farewell radiators? Testing out electric infrared wallpaper

Look carefully and you will notice there is something slightly different about Kris Bilski's house in Hull. It has no radiators. Yet even on a -2C winter's day, it's nice and warm inside. This is because Kris is an early adopter of electric infrared wallpaper. Thin, metallic sheets are hidden behind the plaster of his [...]

NEW: Gove sets sights on scrapping leasehold ownership

Housing Secretary Michael Gove has promised to scrap most leaseholds in England this year. The government will make it much easier for leaseholders in flats to take over their buildings and bring them into common ownership, avoiding high management fees and ground rents. It is also preparing to scrap rules that prevent owners from buying [...]

Mortgage guarantee scheme extended: initiative to help buyers with small deposits will run until December 2023

The mortgage guarantee scheme — the initiative designed to turn generation rent into generation buy by helping first-time buyers get a foothold on the property ladder — has been extended for 12 months, the Government has announced. Launched in April 2021, the scheme protects lenders against losses when lending to first-time buyers and movers with low deposits. It [...]

Hot water bottle vs electric blanket – which is cheaper to keep warm?

Hot water bottle vs electric blanket - which is cheaper to keep warm?   It may be getting colder, but with high energy bills at the forefront of our minds, households are staying away from putting the heating on and instead reaching for the hot water bottle or electric blanket to keep warm. But in [...]

Failure to repair water leak lands landlord in hot water

Failure to repair water leak lands landlord in hot water   A landlord and property owner who failed to repair a serious water leak in a private rented property in Lewisham have been fined £4,000 after their tenants’ bathroom ceiling collapsed. After the tenants got in contact with Lewisham Council in November 2021 to complain [...]

Insulation: Households could save £300 in new insulation scheme

Insulation: Households could save £300 in new insulation scheme   Households could save around £310 a year through an expanded scheme to insulate Britain's draughtiest homes, the government has said. It will spend £1bn from next spring on grants for homes that have low energy efficiency ratings and are in lower council tax bands. Households [...]

‘Government acts to protect tenants’ says Gove in landlord clampdown

‘Government acts to protect tenants’ says Gove in landlord clampdown   Housing Secretary Michael Gove has made an announcement overnight that “the government will always act to protect tenants.”The claim comes as part of an announcement giving cash to seven areas to clamp down on rogue private landlords. At the same time there is to be [...]

Investors scramble to dump UK property funds as valuations dive amid widening Kwarteng mini-budget chaos

Investors scramble to dump UK property funds as valuations dive amid widening Kwarteng mini-budget chaos   Following last week’s bond market turmoil, which sent shockwaves through the City, investors are now scrambling to exit UK property funds.Since the new chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, presented his Mini-Budget at the end of September, the pace at which investors [...]

You may not like landlords but we need them

You may not like landlords but we need them   Sounds of wailing and gnashing of teeth drift down from the rooftops. They are emitted by landlords, not a social group as likely to evoke pity as are widows and orphans. They nonetheless feel embattled, threatened with legislation to end so-called no-fault evictions, together with [...]

Sustainable Warmth Grant available for eligible households and Private Landlords

Sustainable Warmth Grant available for eligible households and Private Landlords   THURROCK Council are working with an Essex wide energy partner called Warmworks to help households who are eligible in the borough to become more energy efficient.To be eligible for the scheme your home must be rated as Energy Performance Certificate E, F or G, [...]

HMRC steps up search for landlords with undeclared rental income

HMRC steps up search for landlords with undeclared rental income   Landlords are being encouraged to get their accounts in order after an accountant specialising in buy-to-let property warned that HMRC is intensifying its efforts to track down those with undisclosed income.Since the government launched its Let Property Campaign in 2013 – an initiative which [...]

101 Ways How To Sell Your House Faster (And For More Money, Too)

101 Ways How To Sell Your House Faster (And For More Money, Too)   If you’re considering moving house, or your home is already up for sale, the following list of 101 ways to sell your house faster will be right up your street. In many cases, implementing as many of these suggestions as possible [...]

Home insulation grants: can you get help paying for loft and cavity wall insulation?

Home insulation grants: can you get help paying for loft and cavity wall insulation?   Home insulation grants can help you get loft and cavity wall insulation, potentially saving you more than £1,000 on your annual energy bills. Winter is approaching and even with the government’s ‘energy price guarantee’, keeping bills down is a priority [...]

Solar panel sales boom as energy bills soar

Solar panel sales boom as energy bills soar     The energy bills crisis has prompted a big rise in demand for solar panels.   Just over 3,000 solar installations are being carried out every week, according to trade association Solar Energy UK, up from 1,000 a week in July 2020. One provider said this [...]

Collapse of supplier Bulb could add more than £150 to energy bills

Collapse of supplier Bulb could add more than £150 to energy bills   Cost of bailing out UK company threatens to top £4bn by next spring because of soaring gas prices. Households could end up paying more than £150 extra on their energy bills because of the collapse of Bulb, as the price of bailing [...]

A Couple of Price Falls Don’t Yet Add Up to a Housing Correction

A Couple of Price Falls Don’t Yet Add Up to a Housing Correction   There was a time, not so long ago, when many people expected the housing market by now to be in the throes of a full-blown correction.That was even before we knew how high inflation was going to get, how much interest [...]

Council will fine landlords whose properties do not meet minimum EPC ratings

Council will fine landlords whose properties do not meet minimum EPC ratings   Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet has agreed to take enforcement action on private landlords who fail to meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in their properties.As a result of this decision, officers from the Council will now be able to issue fines [...]

Agents report property market ‘returning to normal’

 Agents report property market 'returning to normal'   Agents have begun experience a ‘more traditional’ market with demand dropping and offers coming in slightly under asking price, research claims.The latest Housing Market Report from Propertymark claimed normality may be creeping back into the market.The agency trade body said the number of new buyers registering per [...]

Keys to the council – Hill Group gifts SoloHaus to house the homeless

Keys to the council - Hill Group gifts SoloHaus to house the homeless   An initiative by award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group, saw that keys were officially handed over for six SoloHaus to Southend-on-Sea City Council on July 7 2022 – the first city council in Essex to utilise these purpose-built modular homes as follow-on accommodation for [...]

How real estate can embrace the use of smart-tech

How real estate can embrace the use of smart-tech   The incredible speed at which organisations were able to transition to remote working when the pandemic hit in 2020 was a testament to the innovative and ever-evolving tech emerging in business operations.Now, two years on, even with social distancing restrictions behind us, employees up and [...]

Energy price rises may be even higher than previously predicted

Energy price rises may be even higher than previously predicted   New forecasts from an energy industry consultancy suggests that the average domestic consumer’s energy bills could soar to £3,363 a year from the start of 2023.This is significantly more than the £3,003 figure released by the government.The typical bill now is around £2,000 a [...]

Young adults lie behind growing rental demand, analysis shows

Young adults lie behind growing rental demand, analysis shows   Tenants’ bills are expected to hit a record £63 billion this year - and much of it is down to the so-called Generation Z demographic joining the market.Lettings agency Hamptons says tenants across the country paid a total of £31 billion in rent during the [...]

Housebuilder prepares eco-friendly homes ready for extreme temperatures

Housebuilder prepares eco-friendly homes ready for extreme temperatures A typical comment accompanying news of the UK heatwave is that our homes are not built for 40-degree heat.Many residential homes lack air conditioning and are said to be built to trap heat, which is useful in winter but not when temperatures reach Saharan levels outside.National housebuilder [...]

Ban on charging ground rent on leases comes into force today

Ban on charging ground rent on leases comes into force today   The government’s ban on charging ground rent on new leases in England and Wales comes into force today. From today, anyone buying a home on a new long lease will now be freed from these annual costs. Landlords are  banned from charging ground [...]

Canopy and Housing Hand announce new partnership

Canopy and Housing Hand announce new partnership   Rental guarantor service Housing Hand, and renting firm Canopy, have announced a partnership that will further the companies’ missions to reduce barriers to private renting. The partnership will see Housing Hand support renters who would otherwise be ineligible to move home. As a result, an increased number [...]

Bank of England raises borrowing costs – industry reaction

Bank of England raises borrowing costs – industry reaction   In a move that will have surprised no-one, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee lifted borrowing costs by 50 basis points, taking UK interest rates to a 13-year high of 1.75% It is the largest rise in UK interest rates since 1995 but the [...]

Second home owners face extra bills as tax loophole set to close

Second home owners face extra bills as tax loophole set to close   Second home owners face higher bills that could run to more than £1,000 a year under fresh government plans to close a tax loophole. Michael Gove, the Levelling up Secretary, is set to announce new rules that will mean second home owners [...]

Almost a third of property sales collapse because lenders ‘getting tougher’ – claim

Almost a third of property sales collapse because lenders ‘getting tougher’ – claim   There has been a notable rise in the number of property sales falling through due to tougher mortgage lending conditions, it is claimed. According to new figures from Quick Move Now, 31% of agreed property sales collapsed prior to completion in [...]

Online estate agency agrees partnership to help buyers raise a deposit

Online estate agency agrees partnership to help buyers raise a deposit Proportunity, proptech neolender, has agreed a new partnership with online estate agency Griffin Property Co. to help home buyers finance the deposit needed to acquire a property. The partnership will offer buyers alternative ways to finance their first home. Proportunity provides equity loans to [...]

Industry ramps up awareness of new ‘material information’ guidance for agents

Industry ramps up awareness of new ‘material information’ guidance for agents The National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) has published new guidance to help agents meet their requirements under Part A of the process to improve material information in property listings. The guidance, which is not compulsory, has been developed in partnership [...]

Government considering 50-year mortgages that children can inherit

Government considering 50-year mortgages that children can inherit The government is considering plans to offer homeowners longer mortgages, including 50-year deals, that can be passed between generations, in a bid to stimulate housing demand and help more people gain a foot on the housing ladder. The Japanese-style longer lending agreements could see people being able [...]

How Long Does It Take to Move in 2022?

How Long Does It Take to Move in 2022? We’re sorry for mentioning Christmas in June. But bear with us. If you’re thinking of moving, chances are you’ve pictured yourself in your new home in time for the end of the year. What better place to spend the festive season, and kick off 2023, than [...]

Reminder to Agents – New Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Rules Coming Up

Reminder to Agents - New Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Rules Coming Up A prominent agency lettings chief is alerting the industry that new smoke and carbon monoxide alarm rules are changing from October 1. Since October 2015 there’s been a legal requirement for a smoke alarm to be fitted on every floor of a property [...]

The Party’s Over for Airbnb

The Party’s Over for Airbnb Airbnb says that its so-called ‘party ban’ - introduced in 2020 at the height of the pandemic - is being made permanent. The platform claims that there’s been a 63 per cent drop in reports of parties in Airbnb host homes the UK since the temporary ban. Airbnb says it [...]

Ban On Charging Ground Rent On Leases Comes Into Force

Ban On Charging Ground Rent On Leases Comes Into Force The government’s ban on charging ground rent on new leases in England and Wales comes into force today. Starting June 30, anyone buying a home on a new long lease will now be freed from these annual costs. Landlords are banned from charging ground rent [...]

Cost-Of-Living Crisis Still Taking Centre Stage as UK Borrowing Drops

Cost-Of-Living Crisis Still Taking Centre Stage as UK Borrowing Drops Investors are getting set for another twist on the rollercoaster with Monday’s gains set to be largely erased after Snap interrupted the brief rally with a very downbeat snapshot. The FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 have opened 0.9% lower while in Japan the Nikkei slid [...]

Financial Impact of Covid-19 on Landlords & Tenants incl Govt Support – Starr Radio Property Hour

Challenges & Successes of Black Women in Property – Starr Radio Property Hour

BTL landlords will benefit from £2bn home insulation scheme

The new £2bn grant scheme in England for projects such as insulation, unveiled yesterday by the chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of a wider £3bn plan to cut emissions, initially did not appear to include BTL landlords and homes in the private rented sector. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners will receive vouchers of up to [...]

Supply Exceeding Normal Levels Since Stamp Duty Cut

New listings are on the rise and stock is quickly shifting since the first month of the Stamp Duty holiday but there are already fears about how long it will last. Analysis by property website Home.co.uk found supply of new sales instructions is “exceeding normal levels” and properties are being quickly snapped up close to […]

How will the property market fare as the economy enters recession?

So, the U.K. is officially in recession. And not just any recession but ‘the deepest recession since records began’.

The Office for National Statistics said gross domestic product (GDP), fell in the second quarter of 2020 by 20.4% compared with the previous three months, and that is the biggest quarterly decline since comparable records began in 1955.

HMO And Serviced Accommodation Furniture Packs

Designed to Sell are pleased to offer our new HMO and Serviced Accommodation furniture packs! These HMO and Serviced Accommodation furniture packs can save you time and money and remove the hassle and stress out of furnishing your HMOs and SAs. We have three HMO and SA packages to suit all budgets Essence Impressions Autograph [...]

Changes to eviction rules after Coronavirus Act passes into law

The UK Government passed into law the Coronavirus Act on Wednesday 25 March 2020 providing additional powers to deal with the Coronavirus outbreak including measures to suspend new evictions from private rented accommodation while the national crisis is taking place. Under the Coronavirus Act, landlords will not be able to start proceedings to evict tenants [...]

New Green Homes Grant For Insulation And Double Glazing

What You Need To Know Green Homes Grant vouchers worth up to £5,000 will be issued to homeowners in England to make their homes more energy efficient under a Government scheme being launched in September – here's the latest info we have following an update issued on 4 August. As part of the Green Homes [...]

A Guide To Renovating For Higher Profits

A Guide To Renovating - 3 Levels Of Renovation And Profit Margins This brief guide to renovating will guide you through the different levels of renovations that can be carried out on a property and the impact your decision-making process might have on your profit margins. The guide to renovating will also briefly touch on [...]