Latest News
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Beware the Knotweed Invasion – UK Homeowners Face Early Onslaught
The climate crisis is believed to be fast-forwarding the growth of the notorious Japanese knotweed, presenting a growing menace to homeowners far earlier in the year than previously witnessed. This invasive species, notorious for its resilience and the significant costs associated with its eradication, has been spotted flourishing in February and March—nearly six weeks ahead…
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Landlords, Beware The Hidden Costs of Limited Companies for Buy-to-Let
An increasing number of UK landlords have turned to limited companies as a vehicle for their buy-to-let investments. This shift has been significant, with a record 50,004 companies established for this purpose just last year, as revealed by Hamptons. The total number of buy-to-lets held within company structures has surged to 615,077, marking an 82%…
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Record Number of First-Time Homebuyers Make Their Move in 2024
A report by Hamptons has revealed that a staggering one-third of all homes sold this year have been snapped up by first-time buyers, with this figure rocketing to half in London. This marks a historic moment for the UK, showing an all-time high and signifying a substantial shift in the property market. The data speaks…
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Second Home Squeeze – The Changing Face of Property Ownership in the UK
A significant shift is happening in the world of property ownership. From the empty streets of North Devon during the first Covid-19 lockdown to the surging house prices on Devon’s north coast, the impact of second home ownership is being felt by local communities. As the government and local councils begin to tighten the reins…
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Farewell London! The Rise of Industrial Cities in the UK Housing Market
A growing number of homeowners are swapping the sky-high prices of London for the rich heritage and more affordable living in Britain’s Industrial Revolution cities. This trend sees thousands turning their backs on the capital in search of better value in cities like Leicester, Glasgow, Sheffield, and Bradford. Recent data from Purplebricks reveals a dramatic…
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Transform Your Garage into a Cosy Living Space – Know the Planning Rules
Many of us have garages that have turned into nothing more than oversized storage units, filled to the brim with items we barely use. But what if you could turn this space into a vibrant new living area, a home office, or a cosy den? The idea is tempting and more common than you might…
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Scotland’s Rental Revolution – Freezing Rents for Five Years
Scottish buy-to-let landlords are facing a dramatic shift in the landscape with a proposal that could see rent increases halted for up to five years. This plan, part of the ambitious Housing (Scotland) Bill, is stirring up considerable debate and concern among property investors and industry experts. The initiative, spearheaded by Patrick Harvie, the Green…
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Two-Year Fix Mortgages Back in Favour
There’s a new trend for borrowers in the UK: the resurgence of two-year fixed-rate mortgages. This shift comes amid signs that the Bank of England might lower interest rates in the not-too-distant future, offering a glimmer of hope for those looking to secure a new mortgage or refinance their home. Interest Rate Insights Andrew Bailey,…
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Mayfair – Property Prices Rocket in London’s Elite Enclave
The Mayfair 2024 Residential Market Report by Wetherell shows that 70% of properties sold in Mayfair last year fetched between £2,000 and £10,000 per square foot. This is a huge leap from the 24% average for similar price brackets across prime central London. Imagine stepping into a reception room of a property in Grosvenor Square…
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Affordable Gems to Pricey Paradises in Cumbria’s Property Market
The cost of laying down roots in Cumbria can vary dramatically from one postcode to another. Looking into the latest property data from the Land Registry, shows where you’ll find the most wallet-friendly homes and where the price tags soar to eye-watering heights. The area of Moor Row in West Cumbria emerges as a leader…