News and Updates
Buyer demand soars by 26% as life returns to the market
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
The latest figures released by Zoopla have revealed that that house price growth across UK Cities has hit a two year high of +3.9%.
Top 5 home renovations that require no planning permission
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
Many people these days are deciding to improve rather than move. Spiralling costs involved with relocating, low stock levels and economic uncertainty are all playing their part.
Homeownership not top priority for majority of non-owners
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
A new survey has revealed that, due to the spiralling costs associated with getting onto the property ladder, homeownership feels increasingly out of reach for the vast majority of British consumers.
One in three banking on property wealth to boost retirement income
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
Newly released research from Key has revealed that around 30% of people who are due to finish full-time work in 2020 are planning to use their property wealth to help boost their retirement income.
Stamp duty receipts stable in Q4 2019
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
Stamp duty transactions in Q4 2019 were 314,700, representing less than a 1 per cent fall on Q4 2018, according to HM Revenue & Customs.
Rightmove notes busiest ever month
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
Rightmove recorded its busiest ever month in January 2020, logging 152 million visits.
Local economies given £3.6bn annual boost from active landlords
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
According to the latest findings from a newly commissioned survey by Aldermore, the UK's 2.5m landlords have spent an average of £1,443 using local tradesmen in the last 12 months - contributing to boosting local economies by billions.
Number of home registrations highest since 2007
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
The number of home registrations in 2019 came in at the highest level since 2007, says the National House Building Council.
First-time buyers to benefit from 30% discount
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
The government has announced the launch of ‘First Homes’, a scheme that will see some new home prices cut by a third for first-time buyers.
Annual house price growth climbs to 4.1%, says Halifax
Posted on Monday, February 10, 2020
The latest data and analysis from Halifax has revealed that there has been a slight rise in annual house price growth since the end of 2019. According to this morning's figures, annual house price growth increased to 4.1% in January after gains of 1.8% and 1.2% seen in December and November respectively.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 20, 2020
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
British Property Federation: Number of Build to Rent properties jumps 33%
Posted on Monday, January 20, 2020
The total number of ‘build-to-rent’ properties across the UK has increased by 33% year-on-year, according to British Property Federation.
Retired homeowners released £3.4bn of equity in 2019
Posted on Monday, January 20, 2020
Retired homeowners released £3.4bn of property wealth in 2019, data from Key’s market monitor shows.
A calmer political climate will support UK mortgage market growth in 2020 and 2021
Posted on Monday, January 20, 2020
According to the latest analysis from the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association, over the next two years and largely driven by house purchases as buyers return to the market, gross mortgage lending will see a return to growth.
Office for National Statistics: House price growth highest since 2018
Posted on Monday, January 20, 2020
House prices rose by 2.2% to an average of £235,298 in the year to November, the latest index from the Office for National Statistics and the Land Registry shows.
How to avoid New Year DIY disasters
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
As well as the usual mass exodus to the gym and setting fire to all the take-a-way menus, the new year often kickstarts a renewed interest in DIY as we look to hit the ground running and spruce up our homes.
Top ten home moving statistics of 2019
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
Home move comparison site, reallymoving, has revealed ten statistics that together tell the story of UK home movers during 2019, including when people moved, how far they went, the most popular destinations and of course, what it all cost.
Eight top tips for first time sellers
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
Selling your home for the first time can be daunting, especially if you are juggling it alongside looking for a property to buy at the same time. The decisions you make along the way could save you – or cost you - thousands of pounds and therefore it’s important you get it right. NAEA Propertymark have produced the followings tips to help you approach the house-selling process with confidence.
New data reveals that January remains the best month for a quick property sale
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
The latest research released by the HomeOwners Alliance has revealed that now remains the best time to list your property for a speedy sale, with homes listed in January selling the fastest than in any other month of the year.
What is the perfect temperature to keep warm but costs down in your home?
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
The latest research from boiler installation and repair experts, Boiler Plan, has revealed the perfect temperature for ensuring your home is warm throughout winter, without the risk of spiralling bills.
Competition for first-time-buyer business sees biggest fall in higher LTV rates
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
The latest research from Moneyfacts.co.uk has revealed that fierce competition between lenders has seen higher loan-to-value fixed rates receive the largest interest rate cuts over the course of 2019.
What have been the top performing property types of the past decade?
Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2020
New research, published by Proportunity, takes a look at what property types have seen the highest price growth over the past decade.
Market Update: Out with the old, in with the new!
Posted on Thursday, December 19, 2019
As we enter 2020 it seems an appropriate time to take a look at the property market and give our thoughts on the year ahead.
Almost a third of landlords plan to re-mortgage over the next year
Posted on Thursday, December 19, 2019
The latest research from specialist lender, Precise Mortgages, has revealed that 31% of UK landlords plan to re-mortgage over the next year fuelled by heated market competition and various new products.
How well do you know your neighbours?
Posted on Thursday, December 19, 2019
According to the song everybody needs good ones, but a new study from Aviva has revealed that UK adults typically only know four of their neighbours by name.
Rightmove predict 2% house price rise in 2020
Posted on Thursday, December 19, 2019
We might not be out of the storm just yet, but a newly elected majority government has certainly calmed the waters a little and given UK home-movers a window of certainty for an active spring moving season and a more favourable forecast for next year's house prices.
HomeLet: Average rents climb 3.2%
Posted on Thursday, December 19, 2019
Average monthly rents have increased by 3.2% to £947 over the year to November, figures from HomeLet have shown.
5 top tips to spend less on heating your home this winter
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
With freezing temperatures hitting the UK and the Met Office issuing a cold weather alert for large parts of the country, it is time for people to start winter-proofing their homes - but this can prove expensive unless you use a little common sense.
First-time buyer numbers rise across the UK
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all saw rises in the number of new borrowers on the housing market, shows data from UK Finance.
What makes a 'Forever Home'?
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
New research from LV= General Insurance has found that 86% of homeowners, equating to roughly 15 million adults, decided to make improvements to transform their house into their ‘forever home’.
The importance of keeping indoor plants
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
The importance of keeping indoor plants
Homes England: Housing starts highest in 10 years
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
Building work began on 16,955 new homes in the six months to the end of September under programmes run by Homes England.
What are some of the biggest myths surrounding mortgages?
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
What are some of the biggest myths surrounding mortgages?
What property types generate the best return?
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
According to the latest research from the National Landlords Association (NLA), landlords might think that letting their property to a major international company or high-flying executive would generate top dollar, but they would be wrong.
Annual house price growth hits 2.1% in November
Posted on Sunday, December 8, 2019
The latest data from Halifax has surprised many with the news that November saw the the biggest monthly rise in house prices since February. However, is this just a pre-Christmas rush or a sign of things to come?
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, November 28, 2019
Darren Murphy & Chris Harper give their views on the property market as we end 2019 and enter 2020
Christmas and New Year opening hours
Posted on Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Christmas and New Year opening hours
Surge in number of landlords planning to use limited company vehicles to make next purchase
Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2019
New data released by Foundation Home Loans has revealed that the number of landlords planning to buy their next property within a limited company vehicle has jumped significantly in a few months.
Majority of renters say they would move a maximum of 17 minutes further away from work to buy a home
Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2019
The latest research and analysis from buy to let specialist, Landbay, has revealed that 76% of private renters would consider buying a property - but not at the expense of their commute.
Third of landlords use personal savings for refurbishments
Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2019
Over a third, 34%, of landlords use their personal savings to fund refurbishments, data collected by Interbay shows.
New figures reveal substantial increase in housing supply
Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2019
The latest government figures have revealed that housing stock net additions rose to 241,130 in 2018/19, representing a 93% increase over the past six years including close to 214,000 new build completions
How much does the average Brit spend on their new home within the first year?
Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2019
Figures shows that younger homeowners overspend by 10% more than planned, whereas those aged 65 or more spent 13% less than expected.
Majority of single person households to be occupied by over 65's by 2022
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
According to newly released findings by the Equity Release Council, the total number of over-65s living alone is on course to outnumber those aged under-65 for the first time on record within the next three years.
Tenant sentiment remains high
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
The latest research and data from buy to let specialists, Landbay, has revealed that as many as 75% of all UK tenants are happy to rent, and a third of those are happy to rent forever.
Top tips for home security during darker months
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
According to stats released by Halifax, last year, there was a 35% increase in Halifax Home Insurance claims for forced burglary in ‘darker months’ versus ‘lighter months’.
Prime residential property transactions see twelve-fold increase in past 20 years
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
Fuelled by the seemingly never ending rise of property prices, the number of prime residential housing transactions have increased rapidly in the past 20 years.
Prime market growth holds steady in the past five years
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
Despite rumours of a prime market slowdown, over the past five years Private Finance’s analysis suggests an overall trend of growth, with increases in the number of £1 million+ property transactions every year except 2018. Transactions in the £5 million+ price bracket have been more volatile but have held above 320 for the past five years.
First time buyer monthly lending figures at 12 year high
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
Figures released by UK Finance have revealed that first-time-buyers were out in force during the summer, with just over 35'000 new first-time buyer mortgages completed in August - the highest monthly total seen since August 2007.
What keeps landlords up at night?
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
As jobs go, being a landlord can carry a lot of stress. From navigating constantly changing laws, buying and managing multiple properties and tackling problem tenants, there's a lot to deal with. However, according to the latest research from The Mortgage Lender, property maintenance tops the list of issues that are keeping residential landlords awake at night.
Investec: Long-term house price outlook positive
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
Long-term house price growth will be propped up by the ongoing shortage of supply, Investec economist Victoria Clarke has forecast.
How to protect against noise pollution and increase your property’s rental appeal
Posted on Sunday, November 3, 2019
At one point or another, we've all been victim to unwanted noise in our homes whether it's from traffic, animals or neighbours.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, October 27, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current residential property market
Zoopla: Majority of UK property is stamp duty exempt for first time buyers
Posted on Sunday, October 13, 2019
New research from Zoopla has revealed that 59% of all homes for sale across the UK fall under the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) threshold for first-time buyers.
Government offers incentives to build schools near homes
Posted on Sunday, October 13, 2019
The Department for Education is offering loans of up to £20m per school to housing developers.
Top tips to winter-proof your home
Posted on Sunday, October 13, 2019
Tradespeople comparison website, HaMuch.com, has put together some advice on some of the key steps you can take to winter-proof your property, and save money in the process.
Traditional property features still ranked the highest by UK homebuyers
Posted on Sunday, October 13, 2019
According to the latest research from new home specialists, Stone Real Estate, when it comes to the most important factors a new-build home can have, homebuyers still value traditional property features the most when house hunting.
How can you pass on a rental property to children tax-efficiently?
Posted on Sunday, October 13, 2019
Article by Simon Misiewicz of Optimise Accountants that appeared in Property Reporter
Tenant demand sustains UK rents at record high for fourth consecutive month
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
The latest data and analysis from ARLA Propertymark has revealed that, across the UK, the number of tenants experiencing rent rises rose to the highest figure on record during August.
Top tips to sell your home by Christmas
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
The HomeOwners Alliance shares their top tips for selling before Christmas:
Top tips to extend the life of your bathroom
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
What’s Your Bathroom’s Expiration Date? Your bathroom is often one of the most used rooms in your home, so it’s particularly important to keep it in the best condition and functioning well.
Which home renovations can add the most value to your property?
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
Range cooker specialist, Leisure, have been crunching the numbers and calculated the value per square metre, that extending your home can add to your property and highlights the interior renovations homeowners are carrying out the most.
Compromise is the key to a dream home say two thirds of first-time buyers (FTB)
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
Newly released data from Post Office Money has revealed that the key to buying your first home could be as simple as moving 28 minutes away from your preferred location.
Over a third would ignore a structural fault to get on the property ladder
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
According to a new survey from Atom Bank, over half of British house buyers don’t even check for major issues such as rising damp central heating and electrics, with a third admitting to turning a blind eye to serious structural issues, risking losing thousands.
Moneyfacts: Boom in mortgage deals for first-time landlords
Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2019
The number of mortgage deals for first-time landlords has jumped by 25% over the past year to reach a new high of 1,474, figures from Moneyfacts reveal.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, September 29, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
How much does it cost to create effective 'Kerb Appeal'?
Posted on Tuesday, September 24, 2019
With over two thirds of homeowners saying “Kerb Appeal” was important in their choice of home, we take a look at what features are most important and how much they should cost.
Majority of private tenants happy to remain in rented accommodation
Posted on Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Buy-to-let focused marketplace lender, Landbay, has been crunching the numbers and found that just 42% of tenants are interested in buying in the near future.
McVey launches clamp down on illegal building
Posted on Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Minister of state for housing Esther McVey has pledged to clampdown on illegal development, particularly on green belt sites.
First time buyers account for over half of market
Posted on Tuesday, September 24, 2019
First-time buyers now account for 51% of the nation’s house purchase market, the first time this has been the case since 1995, according to Atom Bank.
Nearly half of first-time buyers funded by relatives
Posted on Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Almost half, 47%, of first-time buyers are partially funded by their parents or grandparents, says Key Partnership.
What are the most desirable attributes in a rental property?
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
A new study of 2,000 private renters across the UK has revealed the most and least popular attributes for rental properties, offering insight to landlords on the wants and needs of their tenants.
The most popular, the cheapest and the most expensive days to move home
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
Home moving experts, Compare My Move, have been crunching the numbers and found the most popular, most expensive and cheapest days to move home across the UK.
Buy to let remains main focus for 8 out of 10 landlords
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
According to the latest report from The Mortgage Lender, 84% of landlords are committed to the buy to let market and looking to maintain or increase the number of properties in their portfolios over the next 12 months.
Top tips to give your home an autumn refresh
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
There are many essential jobs that can be done come Autumn to prepare you home for the cooler months. That’s why Hoppy.co.uk have decided to share some top tips on how to refresh your home and help to save you money as the nights get colder.
How to make the most of a small garden
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
35% of Brits describe their garden as small, but tiny gardens can easily be easily transformed to look full-of-life with clever arrangements, the right plants and simple accessories.
How much will your 'Forever Home' cost?
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
The latest research and data released by The Nottingham has revealed what age the nation anticipates they will move into their Forever Home, and what features they will look for in the home they are going to settle in long term.
The unique challenges of older private renters
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
The UK’s growing number of older private renters face distinct challenges which could worsen the nation’s housing crisis, according to research by the University of Stirling on behalf of the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE).
Brits spend over £63,000 in rent before buying their first home
Posted on Saturday, September 7, 2019
The average adult will spend more than £63,000 in rent before they get onto the property ladder, according to research from UK homebuilder Keepmoat Homes.
Government reforms shared ownership and Help to Buy
Posted on Friday, August 30, 2019
Housing secretary Robert Jenrick has unveiled reforms to shared ownership and Help to Buy designed to make the schemes more accessible for borrowers.
Parents pay up to 102% more to live by the best schools
Posted on Friday, August 30, 2019
Property around the best primary schools sells for 40.1% more than property surrounding the best secondary schools.
Home-mover numbers increase for first time in three years
Posted on Friday, August 30, 2019
The number of people moving home increased for the first time in three years in the first half of 2019, despite deposits remaining at record highs of over £100,000, according to research from Lloyds Bank.
Mortgage approvals rise to ten-year high
Posted on Friday, August 30, 2019
Mortgage approvals for home purchase were 16.4% higher than in July 2018.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, August 30, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Number of First Time Buyers highest since 2007
Posted on Sunday, August 18, 2019
The number of people getting on the UK property ladder is at its highest level since 2007, according to the Yorkshire Building Society.
Number of 10-year fixed rate mortgage products reaches record high
Posted on Sunday, August 18, 2019
The number of 10-year fixed rate mortgage products has reached 157, a record high, according to data collected by Moneyfacts.
Top tips to make your home age friendly
Posted on Sunday, August 18, 2019
None of us are getting any younger. And as children are no exception to this rule, most of them grow up and move out of the family home.
Over half of landlords now planning use limited companies to buy their next property
Posted on Sunday, August 18, 2019
Newly released research from Precise Mortgages has revealed that more than half of landlords plan to use limited companies to buy properties in the year ahead underlining the ongoing transformation of the buy to let market
Vast majority of landlords support the idea of a dedicated housing court
Posted on Monday, August 5, 2019
79% of private landlords with experience of using the courts to repossess properties are dissatisfied with the way they work.
Young Brits choosing friends rather than partners when buying a home
Posted on Monday, August 5, 2019
New research explores the emerging trend of Brits choosing to buy and live in homes with friends, rather than with a partner or on their own.
Majority of buy to let lenders now offer products for limited companies
Posted on Monday, August 5, 2019
For the first time, considerably more than half (59%) of all buy to let mortgage lenders offered products to landlords who use limited companies as borrowing vehicles in Q2 2019, according to the results of the latest Buy to Let Mortgage Index published by Mortgages for Business.
NAEA Propertymark: Buyer demand still high as housing market shows 'resilience' in June
Posted on Monday, August 5, 2019
The latest housing report from NAEA Propertymark suggests that the housing market showed resilience in June, as buyer demand remains high.
NHBC: new home registrations at 12 year high
Posted on Monday, August 5, 2019
The latest statistics released by NHBC have revealed that, between April and June this year, housebuilders registered the highest number of new homes for 12 years, with the rental market driving growth.
Market Update – changes ahead
Posted on Thursday, July 25, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on plans for qualifications, regulation and licensing in the property sector
MHCLG set to toughen up on inclusivity and wildlife
Posted on Thursday, July 25, 2019
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has announced that planning guidance is set to be toughened to address segregation in mixed-tenure schemes.
Home improvement revealed as most popular reason for equity release
Posted on Thursday, July 25, 2019
Data from Canada Life, which found that paying off mortgage debt to be the most popular reason for equity release, has been challenged.
Government failing to release promised land for new homes, say MPs
Posted on Thursday, July 25, 2019
The Government stands to miss its targets for releasing land for the development of new homes by a “wide margin”, MPs have warned in a critical report.
New home registrations climb 9% during spring says NHBC
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
The latest figures from NHBC have revealed that private sector registrations were up 9% between March and May 2019 against the same period last year.
How innovation is changing the modern home
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
In a world where technology is penetrating almost every aspect of life, it’s only natural that our homes are starting to be filled with increasingly smart devices.
NAEA Propertymark: top 10 home improvement tips to increase the value of your home
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
NAEA Propertymark: top 10 home improvement tips to increase the value of your home
Kitchen makeover revealed as the UK's most popular home improvement
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
New research into the renovation desires of UK homeowners has revealed a kitchen makeover to be the king of home improvements.
Bank of England hints at potential relaxation of affordability rules
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
Bank of England has hinted that strict affordability tests could be relaxed, but only if house prices start to rise.
RICS: Positive buyer demand sets tone in “steadier” housing market
Posted on Friday, July 12, 2019
The June RICS housing survey shows the net balance for new buyer enquiries hit 10% in June, as other indicators also ticked up.
Optimism remains high among UK landlords
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
The latest research from Cambridge & Counties Bank, has revealed that despite the seemingly never ending Brexit circus and challenging financial climate, around two thirds of UK landlords are optimistic about the outlook for the residential buy-to-let sector over the next three years.
Nearly half of over 55s would downsize to fund jet set lifestyle
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
SunLife have released the results from a new survey revealing that almost half of homeowners over 55 would downsize to release cash to pay for foreign holidays.
Top tips to get your garden BBQ ready
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Garden parties and BBQ’s are British summer essentials and hosting one with a messy, un-preened garden could be disastrous. Almost a third (29%) of Brits say they will be hosting a party this summer, so for the 78% of us who have a private garden, it must be in tip top condition for entertaining guests.
ARLA Propertymark: Average rent rises to record levels in wake of tenant fees act
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
The latest report from ARLA Propertymark has revealed that the number of tenants experiencing rent rises increased to the highest figure on record in May, with 45% of agents witnessing landlords increasing them.
Retired homeowners earning more from their homes
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
New research from equity release adviser, Key, has revealed that despite continued market uncertainty, in the past year, retired homeowners saw their property wealth increase by more than £1,000.
Majority of Brits forget about their garden when insuring their home
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
The latest analysis from MoneySuperMarket has revealed that a large majority of people never insure items stored outside and 16% have had items stolen from their garden or shed.
Mortgages with 40-year terms rising in popularity
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Mortgages with the option of a 40-year term is rising in popularity, according to data collected by Moneyfacts.
Government offers mortgage help for green home improvements
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Borrowers may soon be able to qualify for discounted mortgage rates by carrying out work to improve the energy rating of their home through a new £5m government fund.
Moneyfacts: Record number of deals for first-time landlords
Posted on Wednesday, July 3, 2019
The number of mortgage options for first-time landlords has reached a record high, figures from Moneyfacts have revealed.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, June 27, 2019
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Homes England: Rise in homes built by govt schemes
Posted on Monday, June 24, 2019
Building work began on 45,692 new homes through government-run programmes in the year to April, the highest figure for nine years according to Homes England.
Retirement plans to include property for half of homeowners aged over 45
Posted on Monday, June 24, 2019
The latest analysis from the Equity Release Council has revealed that 51% of homeowners aged 45 and over see money invested in property as part of their financial plans for later life.
Rightmove: Average new asking prices close to record high
Posted on Monday, June 24, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Rightmove has revealed that average new asking prices are close to a record high, up 0.3% on a monthly basis at £309,348, with new all-time price highs in the east midlands, north west, Wales, and Yorkshire & the Humber.
Over a third of prospective home buyers to rely on Bank of Mum and Dad
Posted on Monday, June 24, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Legal & General has revealed that lending at the Bank of Mum and Dad (BoMaD) has increased on average by £6,000 during the last year as young people continue to struggle to get on the property ladder.
Top tips to get your garden ready for summer
Posted on Saturday, June 15, 2019
Believe it or not, summer is just around the corner. We might not get the record-breaking temperatures of last year, but with 48% of us citing summer as the season we spend the most time in our gardens, it's time for some top tips to help us get the most out of our outdoor space.
Location remains key for over 65s
Posted on Saturday, June 15, 2019
A new Senior Living Survey has revealed that location remains the most important factor when choosing a property for the UK's over 65s.
Over 55s reveal their ‘dream home improvements’
Posted on Saturday, June 15, 2019
We've all dreamed of winning a few quid on the lottery. And if it wasn't enough to buy our own private island, improving our current residence would surely come high up the list of ways to spend it.
Slowing house price growth not dampening homeowner confidence
Posted on Saturday, June 15, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Zoopla has revealed that despite slowing price growth in the property market, homeowner confidence remains strong with 81% of Brits expecting property value increases in their area over the next six months.
Halifax: Recovery and confidence returning to the market
Posted on Saturday, June 15, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Halifax has revealed that average house prices in May edged up to £237,837 - a rise of 0.5% on the month as the first signs of stability return to the market.
Halifax: Confidence returning to the market
Posted on Monday, June 10, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Halifax has revealed that average house prices in May edged up to £237,837 - a rise of 0.5% on the month as the first signs of stability return to the market.
Mortgage market sees strong performance during May
Posted on Monday, June 10, 2019
The latest data and analysis from residential chartered surveyors, e.surv, has revealed that high activity in April was followed by an equally strong performance during May for the mortgage market.
Love your shed!
Posted on Monday, June 10, 2019
Whether it's a simple lean-to used for storing tools and your bike or a full on 'Man Cave' complete with bar, widescreen TV and games consoles, a well-maintained garden shed is a thing of beauty and needs the attention it deserves.
Top tips for a Bee friendly garden
Posted on Monday, June 10, 2019
Homebuilder, David Wilson Homes North West, is encouraging people to make their garden a haven for our fuzzy friends, by planting flowers to attract them and making small changes to their garden to give bees somewhere to shelter.
Number of new homes rose by 222,000 last year
Posted on Sunday, June 2, 2019
The number of homes rose by 222,000 in the year to April, the latest estimates from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government show.
NAEA Propertymark: Property transactions up in April
Posted on Sunday, June 2, 2019
In April, the number of property sales agreed per estate agency branch increased to the highest level seen since October, according to the latest data from the NAEA Propertymark.
Fast broadband now more important to house hunters than good schools
Posted on Sunday, June 2, 2019
A poll of 2,115 UK homeowners has found that a fast broadband connection has risen up the ranks of priorities for people when choosing an area to live in.
Market Update
Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Top ten Feng Shui tips for your home
Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2019
A UK wide survey by the Mental Health Foundation found last year, 74% of the UK felt overwhelmed with stress at some point in the previous year. And whilst there is a wide range of stress factors, one of the least recognised but easiest life stressors to fix is decluttering your home.
Energy efficiency cited as main reason three quarters would consider a new build home
Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2019
According to a new survey compiled for the Home Builders Federation, three quarters of those seeking a home would consider buying new, with 38% citing energy efficiency as their number one reason.
What are the most common hazards being missed by buy-to-let landlords?
Posted on Monday, May 13, 2019
The latest data released by VeriSmart has found that thousands of landlords are failing to address category 1 household hazards within their rental properties.
Would you buy a property with Japanese knotweed if the price was right?
Posted on Monday, May 13, 2019
Often described as “indisputably the UK’s most aggressive, destructive and invasive plant”, Japanese knotweed has been striking fear into homeowners for many years. But is it really 'game over' if you find it on your property?
Rise in number of older buy to let investors during 2018
Posted on Monday, May 13, 2019
Newly released data from specialist buy to let broker, Commercial Trust Limited, has revealed that the idea of slowing down for a large number of the UK's senior population is not an option.
10 top tips for new landlords
Posted on Monday, May 13, 2019
Investing in buy-to-let is a huge responsibility and as the number of people living in rented accommodation is set to rise further, demand for new landlords has never been higher.
Research suggests limited company purchases for landlords are set to rise
Posted on Monday, May 13, 2019
New research from specialist lender, Foundation Home Loans, has revealed that the majority of landlords who intend to expand their portfolios in the next year are likely to do so within a limited company vehicle.
If the national rental market was a country, where would it rank in terms of global GDP?
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
New research by lettings inventory and property compliance specialists, VeriSmart, has looked at the value of the English and London rental markets and how they stack up when compared to the GDP of global nations.
Cash house sales down by a fifth
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
The latest updated data from the Office of National Statistics has shown that the number of cash property sales across the UK has decreased by just over 19%.
Mortgage approvals rise to nine-month high
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
The latest data and analysis from UK Finance has revealed that, during March, mortgage approvals by the main high street banks were up 9.1% against March 2018.
ARLA Propertymark: Available rental stock at record high
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
Data released by ARLA Propertymark has revealed that the supply of properties available to rent rose to 203 per member branch in March, from 197 in February – the highest since records began in 2015.
NHBC reports new home registrations up 3% against last year
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
Newly released figures from NHBC have revealed that the number of new homes registered by UK housebuilders and developers in the first three months of the year reached more than 37,500 – a 3% increase on the same period in 2018.
Help to Buy assisted 143 households a day to get on the property ladder during 2018
Posted on Sunday, May 5, 2019
The latest statistics released by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government have revealed that 2018 was another successful year for the scheme.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their market update and recall Benjamin Franklins famous quote that “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.”
Rightmove: Family activity driving Spring market
Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2019
Data and analysis from Rightmove has shown that, despite current market uncertainty, families are doing housing deals as housing needs take priority.
Going green in the home could save over £200 per year
Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2019
Price comparison website, MoneySuperMarket, takes a look at the costs and savings associated with the most readily available renewable energy sources and efficiency-improvers around the home.
Number of equity release plans treble in 3 years
Posted on Thursday, April 11, 2019
The latest data release by Key Partnerships has shown that equity release lenders have rapidly expanded options for customers and can now offer 233 plan options across their product ranges.
What are the top issues that could see a house sale fail?
Posted on Thursday, April 11, 2019
In order to reduce the chances of your sale falling through, it’s worthwhile to be aware of the qualities your property has which may make the sale difficult, so you can work on resolving them before you find a buyer.
Majority of property investors remain unfazed by Brexit
Posted on Thursday, April 11, 2019
The latest analysis by Market Financial Solutions has found that after another seemingly pointless week riding the Brexit merry-go-round, more than half of the UK's property investors have indicated that it's business as usual and won't be changing their investment plans.
IMLA report reveals that one in three home movers are 'Last-time buyers'
Posted on Thursday, April 11, 2019
The latest data and analysis from the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association has revealed that almost 200,000 owner occupier housing transactions in England are now made by people over 55 who are able to use their huge equity reserves to find their perfect last home.
Zoopla: Friends and amenities: What are renters willing to compromise on?
Posted on Thursday, April 11, 2019
Zoopla has revealed that when it comes to what renters aren’t willing to compromise on, nearby amenities including shops, bars and entertainment comes out on top.
What do renters really want?
Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
The latest data released from Zoopla reveals the property types in the highest demand across the lettings and sales markets in Great Britain.
NAEA Propertymark: First time buyers fuelled by cautious property market
Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
New figures released by NAEA Propertymark have revealed that as housing demand fell to a six year low, first-time-buyers were out in force during February.
NAEA Propertymark: 10 top home improvement tips to increase the value of your home
Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
NAEA Propertymark: 10 top home improvement tips to increase the value of your home
Top tips for value boosting DIY
Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
We are a nation of DIY enthusiasts, and according to the latest research from NAEA Propertymark, we have splashed out a total of £48bn doing up our homes over the last five years – an average of £8,000 each.
Sentiment among new home owners is on the rise
Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
A new customer satisfaction survey has revealed that an increasing majority of new home owners are happy with their housebuilder and their new home.
Top tips to get your garden ready for spring
Posted on Saturday, March 23, 2019
Spring is in the air. And, if you are like the 52% of Brits who admitted to completely neglecting their garden over the winter, the next few weeks could prove to be the perfect time to dust off the gardening gloves and give your green space some much needed TLC.
Buy to let is still one of the best investment options ten years after the financial crisis
Posted on Saturday, March 23, 2019
According to new research by lettings inventory and property compliance specialists, VeriSmart, buy-to-let property is up there with the FTSE 100 and classic cars when it comes to a sound investment.
Majority of UK property investors intend to increase their portfolios in 2019
Posted on Saturday, March 23, 2019
A new independent survey commissioned by Experience Invest has quizzed over 500 buy-to-let landlords on how they are planning to manage their property portfolios this year.
Top boiler tips for landlords
Posted on Saturday, March 23, 2019
According to data from Direct Line for Business , a 36% rise in claims for faulty boilers occurred last year caused by the aftermath of the 'Beast from the East'. The record number of claims between December and February as temperatures fell as low as −11°C in some parts of the UK, marked the sixth consecutive year in which the volume of insurance claims for faulty boilers has risen.
Market Update
Posted on Saturday, March 23, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Brits 'underestimate' the value the top home improvements can add
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Making living spaces open plan and having a loft conversion are the top renovations that will increase the value of a home, according to UK estate agents.
Five small changes to make your home more eco-friendly
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Many homeowners are becoming more aware of the impact of their actions on the environment and pride themselves on living sustainably. Whether you are a first timer or a full-blown eco-warrior, these five simple home improvement tweaks will make a real difference.
Top tips to downsize your home
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Empty nesters, retirees or homeowners who just want something more manageable. There are many reasons for wanting to move to a smaller property, some financial, some practical. While it may seem a little daunting at first, with some planning and careful consideration, it can be a really positive experience.
Moneyfacts: Average rates on fixed products nearly halve in 10 years
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Data from Moneyfacts shows that the average rate on a fixed product has nearly halved since March 2009.
Bank of England: Lending up 6% as more buyers use high loan to value deals
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Gross mortgage lending grew by 5.5% in the last quarter of 2018 compared to a year earlier as more borrowers took high loan to value (LTV) deals, according to the Bank of England
IMLA: First time buyer completion rate at three-year high:
Posted on Monday, March 18, 2019
Data collected by IMLA shows that first-time buyer mortgage completion rates are at a three-year high.
How the Bank of Mum and Dad aim to help their children buy a home
Posted on Monday, March 11, 2019
Research has revealed that for 26% of first-time buyers, raising a deposit remains the biggest obstacle to overcome when trying to buy their first home.
Top tips to improve your EPC rating
Posted on Monday, March 11, 2019
A study from Everest has revealed the best and worst areas across the country for energy efficiency in the home. Everest analysed 15,623,536 home Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) across the country and found that despite being the most expensive place to live for property prices – London homes are the most energy efficient and paying the least on bills.
Top tips to rent out your home
Posted on Monday, March 11, 2019
There are many things to consider for first-time-landlords. If you're planning to rent out your property, here are a few top tips from ARLA Propertymark to get you started.
Majority of Brits expect house prices to increase in the next 3 years
Posted on Monday, March 11, 2019
New research from home moving company, AnyVan.com, has found that confidence of a price rise in UK property remains strong despite the current political and economic climate.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Rightmove: Housing affordability at 8 year high
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
The latest data and analysis from Rightmove has revealed that annual house price growth increased marginally during February. The 0.2% rise was the lowest recorded at this time of year since 2009.
Top tips to keep your roof in check
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
It's usually one of the last things we keep an eye on due to the 'out of sight, out of mind' mind-set, but a leaky, broken, or damaged roof can be a costly and timely expense to UK homeowners.
First-time buyer numbers hit 12-year high during 2018
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
The latest data and analysis from UK Finance has revealed that despite 'challenging' market conditions and the ongoing Brexit and political circus, first-time-buyer numbers reached a 12-year peak during last year.
Top tips for first-time-buyers
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
According to recent figures, the number of first-time buyers coming to the market has risen from 671,000 during 2016-17, to 785,000 during 2017-18.
Zoopla: Surge in agent appreciation among vendors
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
New data collated from a recent survey of over 3,000 respondents by Zoopla has shown that vendors are increasingly acknowledging the insights and services agents offer.
Retired homeowners’ property wealth hits record high of £1.118trillion
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
Mortgage free retired homeowners saw their homes increase by nearly £1,000 a month over the past six months despite housing market uncertainty, analysis from UK’s leading independent equity release adviser Key shows.
Low mortgage rates helping to improve affordability
Posted on Monday, February 25, 2019
Possessing a property with a mortgage is more affordable now than it was 10 years ago, according to Private Finance.
UK rent sees 2.5% year-on-year rise in January
Posted on Sunday, February 17, 2019
The latest rental data released by HomeLet has revealed that, during January, rents in the UK rose by 2.5% against the same month a year ago. HomeLet data reveals that the average monthly rent now stands at £932 a month.
First-time buyers more active in January
Posted on Sunday, February 17, 2019
The proportion of mortgage approvals in the first month of 2019 was 27.1% versus the 25.2% figure seen in December.
UK Finance: Home repossessions drop to near forty year low
Posted on Sunday, February 17, 2019
UK Finance reports that homeowner repossessions are at the lowest level recorded in nearly 40 years.
Buyer demand is up in over half of English and Welsh counties since 2016 referendum
Posted on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
A new study from PropCast has revealed that, since it was announced that the UK would be leaving the EU, buyer demand has risen for 57% of the counties,
UK housing market 'still moving' says NAEA
Posted on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
NAEA Propertymark has released data covering the housing market for December 2018 and revealed that, despite Brexit woes, the supply of properties available to buy increased to the highest December levels seen for four years.
NAEA: What are the top things that could devalue your home?
Posted on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
There are several things which homeowners are sometimes surprised to hear can devalue their home. Here are some of the key things NAEA members have experienced as having a negative impact on a property's value.
UK property investors remain positive
Posted on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
MT Finance polled property professionals as part of its research into the future performance of the UK property sector. It found 80% of investors plan to increase their portfolios in 2019,
Land Registry: Property transaction registrations up in December
Posted on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Registered property numbers increased on a monthly basis in December, figures from HM Land Registry show.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 28, 2019
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the currnet market supported by reports from Zoopla and Twentyci
Gross mortgage lending sees steady rise during 2018
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
The latest figures released by UK Finance have revealed that, against a backdrop of political and economic uncertainty throughout 2018, gross mortgage lending in the UK ended the year on a positive note.
ONS: Number of households renting jumps 61% in 10 years
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
Figures from the office for national statistics show that the number of UK households in the private rented sector jumped from 2.8m in 2007 to 4.5m in 2017 – an increase of 61%.
UK build-to-rent housing sees 40% rise
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
The latest research published by the British Property Federation has revealed that the total number of build-to-rent homes under construction across the UK has increased by nearly 40%.
5 year fixed rate mortgages are most popular choice for landlords
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
Mortgages for Business has revealed that an increasing number of landlords are opting for five year fixed rate products.
DIY cited as most common cause for arguments in long term relationships
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
A survey of 1,000 people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s has revealed that the top two reasons why couples in long term relationships argue are money and home improvements.
Zoopla: Homemovers are researching their next move more than ever
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2019
The latest research from Zoopla has revealed that an impressive 31% of the British public already know the street, or in some cases, even the specific house they want to move to in their next property venture.
MCHLG: New build starts up 12%
Posted on Thursday, January 17, 2019
The number of new build homes starts in England was up 12% in the quarter ending September 2018, compared to both the previous three months and the same quarter last year.
28% of adults have never discussed their parents’ financial circumstances together
Posted on Thursday, January 17, 2019
Nearly a third (28%) of adults aged 30-55 have never discussed their parents’ financial circumstances as a family, equity release lender more 2 life has found.
There are six times as many products for 75% loan to value borrowers than at 95%
Posted on Thursday, January 17, 2019
First-time buyers with a 25% deposit have access to over six times as many mortgage products as those who are only able to put a 5% deposit down, mortgage insurer AmTrust’s latest mortgage LTV tracker has found.
Mortgage brokers remain optimistic despite Brexit
Posted on Thursday, January 17, 2019
With a buoyant outlook, almost seven in ten (69%) stated that they feel confident about the lending environment in the New Year.
Top tips for a quick house sale
Posted on Thursday, January 17, 2019
Being prepared and taking some well thought out steps to get your home looking its best can substantially reduce stress and help you to sell your home even quicker.
Rising demand for eco-friendly homes
Posted on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
A survey of 1,000 25-40 year old home owners and renters has revealed that almost a third want future homes to be more eco-friendly.
Top tips for a more energy efficient home in 2019
Posted on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Large numbers of us now aim to become more energy efficient around our homes.
New developer contribution rules to speed up housing delivery
Posted on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has published a consultation on funding infrastructure with a view to quickening the pace of housing delivery in England.
House builders planning for further growth
Posted on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Builders are continuing to invest in land as they look to deliver further increases in housing supply, according to a report from the Huose Builders Federation and Glenigan.
Habitable rented homes Bill becomes law
Posted on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
The law will give tenants new powers to take landlords to court where a property fails to be deemed habitable.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, December 23, 2018
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the property market entering 2019
Re-mortgaging levels at ten year high
Posted on Sunday, December 16, 2018
Fierce competition among lenders and huge volumes of fixed rates coming to an end have been cited as the main reasons for re-mortgaging levels reaching their highest amount in a decade.
ONS: One-person households set to grow 26%
Posted on Sunday, December 16, 2018
A report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) describes the number of one-person households in England increasing by 26 per cent between 2016 and 2041.
Almost half of home movers relocate within a 10 mile radius
Posted on Sunday, December 16, 2018
According to the latest research released by home moving company, AnyVan.com, almost half of home movers move less than 10 miles away from their current property.
Five top tips for landlords over winter
Posted on Sunday, December 16, 2018
According to research, 49% of people aren't looking forward to winter and many will worry about whether their home will hold up to the freezing temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, and potential snowfall that the coldest season of the year brings.
Why build-to-rent is the key to helping ‘Generation Rent’
Posted on Sunday, December 16, 2018
A recent report estimated that more than 50% of adults under the age of 40 will be living in privately rented accommodation by 2025
What are the top five things people notice first about your home?
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
When we welcome guests into our home, we hope they walk away talking about how lovely it is. But when it comes to spending our hard-earned cash on home improvements, are we focusing on the right things?
£426m saved with First Time Buyers Relief in 12 months
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
HMRC statistics have revealed that over 180,000 first-time buyers have saved £426 million during the twelve months since the government introduced stamp duty relief on purchases up to £300,000.
Deposit disputes remain below 1% for eighth year running
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
New figures released by Tenancy Deposit Scheme have revealed that of the 3.7 million tenancy deposits currently held, only 31,865 ended in disputes in the year to March 2018 - equating to 0.85% and the eighth consecutive year that this figure has remained below 1%.
Almost two thirds expect to sell valuable items to help buy their first home
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
A new survey from The Nottingham Building Society has found that 63% of potential first-time-buyers plan to sell one or more valuable items such as jewellery to help scrape together their deposit - 14% expect to raise more than half of the funds they need this way.
AI to be commonplace in UK homes by 2023
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
Research from insurer Policy Expert reveals nearly 1.5 million households plan to have their home fully automated in the next five years.
Top tips to prevent burst and frozen pipes during winter
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
Halifax Home Insurance has revealed that partly due to the 'Beast from the East' storm at the start of the year, there was an 86% rise during March 2018 in 'escape of water' claims caused by frozen and burst pipes compared to the same month last year.
Building societies increase their share of the mortgage market
Posted on Monday, December 3, 2018
Newly released figures for the sector that cover the three months to September have shown that there has been a 10% rise in new mortgages approved by building societies.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, November 29, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
First time buyers show no sign of slowing down as market share increases
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
e.surv has released new data showing that competitive mortgage rates are continuing to reel in first-time-buyers and increasing their share of the market.
Brits now spending more on outside lighting to 'boost mood'
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
As the daylight hours get shorter and dark nights draw in, many Brits are attempting to lighten the mood by lighting their outdoor space.
Industry set to 'smash' government target after new build completions see 6.4% year-on-year rise
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
According to the latest government statistics, new build completions accounted for 195,290 of supply in 2017-18 in the year to April - a rise of 6.4%.
Industry set to 'smash' government target after new build completions see 6.4% year-on-year rise
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
According to the latest government statistics, new build completions accounted for 195,290 of supply in 2017-18 in the year to April - a rise of 6.4%.
What are the most common mistakes made by house sellers?
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
Getting a fair price in a timely manner from a good buyer is all a seller wants at the end of the day. However, sometimes there may be things that vendors do which can prevent this from becoming a reality. NAEA Propertymark reveals the most common mistakes made by sellers, which tend to affect their sale.
Top tips for a successful move to a top school catchment area
Posted on Friday, November 23, 2018
New research from home moving company, AnyVan.com, has revealed that as many as 56% of home movers now strive to live in the catchment of schools ranking high in performance tables, sparking fierce competition.
What is stopping UK homes from going green?
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
According to a new survey and research by AXA, just 2% said they don’t believe homes contribute to our carbon footprint, while 13% said the amount is negligible.
New home registrations reach highest levels since 2007
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
The latest figures released by NHBC have revealed that new home registrations for Q3 have resulted in the strongest quarter in 11 years.
Top tips to protect your home from burglary during darker months
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
According to new data from Lloyds Bank, there were 35% more claims for forced burglary received during the ‘darker months’ of 2017/2018 versus the ‘lighter months’ of 2018.
Retired homeowners cashing in an average of £77,000 through equity release
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
Data released by independent equity release adviser, Key, has revealed that equity release plans have risen by 16% during Q3 as the sector market continues to break records.
Stamp duty reforms prompt first time buyer mortgage uptake
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
The latest research by MoneySuperMarket has shown that first-time buyers are taking full advantage of the changes made to stamp duty laws in the 2017 Budget.
Wage growth now outstripping rental growth in all areas of the UK
Posted on Monday, November 12, 2018
The latest Landbay Rental Index has revealed that a typical tenant in the UK (excluding London) pays a third of their pre-tax monthly pay on rent.
Market Update
Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
How to use the front of your home to its best advantage
Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Some will say you can tell a lot about a house by the way the outside looks, from what colour door it has, to the way the homeowners have pruned their garden.
Record number of landlords making profits
Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018
88% of landlords have made a profit from their lettings activity in Q3, up by 2% from Q2, according to new research from BM Solutions.
Planning permissions rise to record levels
Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018
New data released by HBF and Glenigan has shown that planning permissions continued to be granted at record high levels in England in the year to June.
Millennials delaying marriage & children to get on property ladder
Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Millennials, aged 18-34, are having to make sacrifices unheard of in previous generations to get onto the property ladder, according to a new study by online mortgage broker Trussle.
Top tips to invite wildlife into your garden
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
With over 2.5 million grey squirrels and almost 600 different species of birds living in the UK*, there are plenty of ways to welcome wildlife into your garden.
Garden envy fuels green fingered improvements
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
A new survey of around 1500 Brits has revealed the old saying of 'Keeping up with the Joneses' is still as relevant today as it has ever been.
RICS: Growth in new builds drives positive sentiment
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
Surveyors have reported increased workloads over the past three months, driven by a growth in new-build homes.
Average 5 year buy to let mortgage rates fall to new record low
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
According to the latest data released by Moneyfacts, average five-year fixed buy to let mortgage rates are now at a record low of 3.40% after falling from 3.55% in April.
First time buyer numbers increased during September
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
The latest data from e.surv has shown that the market share of small borrowers increased during September from 22.8% to 24.2%, resulting in a lending spike for the month. e.surv also reports that approval levels were up on the month.
Demand outstripping supply in lettings market
Posted on Monday, October 22, 2018
New research has shown that the lettings market is seeing substantial activity with viewings up over 13% on the year and lease signings up 3.5%, while supply has declined 6.9%.
Rise of the 'outroom'
Posted on Monday, October 15, 2018
Fresh off the back of arguably the best summer the UK has enjoyed since 1976, 'outrooms' are becoming the new must-have property feature as homeowners fall in love with gardens again, extending living spaces and adding value to their homes.
1 in 3 landlords say no to compulsory 3 year tenancies
Posted on Monday, October 15, 2018
The latest research from Paragon has found that a third of landlords are less likely to buy property if three-year tenancies are made compulsory under new government proposals.
Over a third of millennials putting property before pensions
Posted on Monday, October 15, 2018
The latest data and analysis from Prudential has shown that dreams of owning a home are outweighing the desire to put money aside for retirement.
Everybody needs good neighbours
Posted on Monday, October 15, 2018
Like the song says, 'Everybody needs good neighbours', so Co-op Insurance and Neighbourhood Watch teamed up and conducted a new survey to find out how UK homeowners get along.
Landlord investment property values at record highs
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
The average market value of landlords’ investment property reached a record high of £1.70m during the third quarter of 2018, according to Paragon’s latest PRS Trends research.
Top tips to get your kids on the property ladder
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
With average deposits for a home in the UK currently weighing in at a terrifying £51.5k – it’s more important than ever to get a plan in place to help your children break into the property market.
Top tips for a smooth property transaction
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
There are a few things you can do to make the process as stress-free as possible. Here are NAEA Propertymark’s top tips that can help with a smooth-sailing property transaction.
How can technology make your home ‘greener’?
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
Energy saving devices to make your home more environmentally friendly don’t always have to involve a major investment.
Five top tips to help make your home baby safe
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
Barratt Homes Manchester is offering homeowners five top tips for moving with a baby and making your new home safe for young families
What are the UK's most popular home improvements?
Posted on Monday, October 1, 2018
We are indeed a nation of DIY and home improvement addicts. And, according to a new survey from GoCompare Home Insurance, painting, flooring and a bathroom makeover are the most popular projects to get our teeth stuck into.
Is it logic or love when buying a home?
Posted on Saturday, September 22, 2018
With one in two UK homeowners viewing their property just once before making an offer, home builder Countryside has teamed up with relationship expert, John Donlon, to uncover just what makes us lead with our hearts when it comes to buying a new home.
How boosting your home's EPC rating could add significantly to its value
Posted on Saturday, September 22, 2018
MoneySuperMarket has found that upgrading your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – the government’s rating of a property’s energy efficiency - from an average D to a high end A can have massive financial benefits.
RICS backs stamp duty reform
Posted on Saturday, September 22, 2018
In order to rebalance and reignite the UK housing market, respondents to the RICS Residential Market Survey suggested overhauling current housing tax and scrapping stamp duty on certain properties, could potentially help thousands more young people own their own home.
Incorporating mindfulness and well-being into your home
Posted on Saturday, September 22, 2018
Between juggling work, family and social commitments, there’s no denying life can be hectic. So much so, that the UK is becoming more conscious of ways to better it’s mindfulness and wellbeing. Over the last ten years, Brits’ interest in wellbeing has increased by 151%¹, while the interest in mindfulness has increased by a whopping 900%.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, September 17, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Top tips to help get your house in order before winter
Posted on Monday, September 17, 2018
According to data released by Lloyds Bank, last year, its home insurance arm received 5,071 claims for storm damage. Predictably, a large amount of these (almost half - 2,389) came in Q1, when Storm Doris was sweeping across the nation.
Five things prospective tenants may not be aware of
Posted on Monday, September 17, 2018
Since May, the number of tenants who are looking for a new home has risen every month. With so many potential tenants entering the market, ARLA Propertymark has compiled their top five facts that the average tenant might not know realise.
Do you need planning permission for garden buildings?
Posted on Monday, September 17, 2018
Outbuildings such as sheds and summerhouses can often be built without planning permission, but there are some limitations. Specialists from outdoor building manufacturer, Tiger Sheds, outline the four key areas of consideration for anyone wanting to update their garden:
Average UK rent pushed to £1209 as recovery continues
Posted on Sunday, September 9, 2018
The latest data and analysis from Landbay has revealed that the average rent in UK has risen by 0.13%, the highest monthly increase since April 2016.
Moneyfacts: Average five-year fixed rate deal hits high in August
Posted on Monday, September 3, 2018
Moneyfacts data shows that as of the end of August, the average five-year fixed rate is 2.92%, slightly down from the 52-week high of 2.95% which occurred earlier in the month.
New Homes registrations rise 35% in July
Posted on Monday, September 3, 2018
The latest figures from NHBC have revealed that new home registrations saw a 35% rise in July against the same month last year.
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy's Market Update
Posted on Thursday, August 23, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
A fifth of landlords intend to stay in buy-to-let for life
Posted on Wednesday, August 22, 2018
One in five individual and portfolio landlords intend to remain in the buy-to-let market indefinitely, according to research from Foundation Home Loans.
Rightmove: Home-movers must act now to move by Christmas
Posted on Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Home-movers who want to move in by the traditional Christmas deadline, now only 18 weeks away, need to act now to do so, Rightmove has warned.
Average home equity of over 55s stands at £290,000
Posted on Monday, August 20, 2018
Research from Sunlife has revealed that on average, people aged 55 and over who own their own home have houses worth £290,659.
460,000 new homes planned for Green Belt will not help to solve housing crisis
Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2018
The Green Belt remains under severe pressure, despite government commitments to its protection, according to a new report from the Campaign to Protect Rural England.
First time buyer numbers at decade high
Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Halifax has reported that first-time buyer numbers have hit their highest amount for a decade, increasing more than double the 10% rise for all buyer types.
Rents pick up in July
Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2018
The latest data from HomeLet has revealed that the average monthly rent in the UK now stands at £937 a month after a 1.3% rise during July.
Almost all landlords are now choosing fixed rate products
Posted on Monday, August 6, 2018
A report from Mortgages for Business has revealed that 93% of landlords financing buy to let property chose a fixed rate mortgage in Q2, with five year fixes being the most popular having being chosen by 69%.
Stamp duty cut saves first time buyers £284 million
Posted on Monday, August 6, 2018
According to the latest figures released by HMRC, as many as 121,500 first-time buyers have saved £284 million since the cut to stamp duty was implemented during last year's budget.
Boost in supply improves first time buyer sales
Posted on Monday, August 6, 2018
The latest data and analysis from NAEA has revealed that the number of property sales saw a 13% rise in June, breathing new life into the UK property market.
Grow your own!
Posted on Monday, August 6, 2018
According to a recent survey of 1,009 UK homeowners carried out by household appliances retailer, AppliancesDirect.co.uk, revealed that more than half (52%) of Brits have grown their own fruit or vegetables in their garde
Which day of the week should you move home on?
Posted on Monday, August 6, 2018
According to the research , Friday is the most popular day to move house, Thursday is the most expensive and Sunday is the cheapest. Most of Britain prefer to move in the summer and on a Friday, though in Wales they favour Wednesday, and in Yorkshire and the Humber movers wait until December.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, July 30, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Majority of over 55s don’t know equity release cash lump sum is tax free
Posted on Monday, July 30, 2018
More than half of homeowners aged 55 and didn’t realise that the cash lump sum they would receive from releasing equity in their home is tax free.
Heatwave prompts Brits to invest in their gardens
Posted on Monday, July 30, 2018
New research has revealed that the ongoing heatwave and arguably the best summer in decades is prompting British homeowners to invest in their gardens and outdoor spaces as the heatwave continues.
Vast majority of Brits want an environmentally sustainable home
Posted on Monday, July 30, 2018
New research by BLP Insurance, has shown that as many as 78% of people consider the environmentally sustainable performance of a building important when choosing a new home.
Number of fee-free mortgages continue to rise
Posted on Monday, July 30, 2018
The latest data from Moneyfacts has revealed that arrangement fee-free mortgages now represent 40% of the mortgage market after growning steadily over the past two years.
Government proposes all new builds be fitted with electric car charging points
Posted on Friday, July 20, 2018
The government has launched new proposals which would require all new build homes to be fitted with electric car charging points.
Top tips for the perfect patio
Posted on Friday, July 20, 2018
Spring is a key time for people looking to rework their outside space. The arrival of warmer weather turns minds to summer sunshine and makes the prospect of spending time getting the garden BBQ-ready less miserable.
Land Registry launches digital Local Land Charges Register
Posted on Friday, July 20, 2018
HM Land Registry has launched its new digital Local Land Charges Register, which aims to make the home-buying process simpler, faster and cheaper.
Japanese knotweed causes no significant structural damage, study finds
Posted on Friday, July 20, 2018
A new study found no evidence that Japanese knotweed causes significant structural damage and its ecologists concluded that automatically refusing mortgages on properties where Japanese knotweed is found is "out of proportion to the risk posed by this invasive species".
Majority of tenants satisfied with rented housing
Posted on Friday, July 20, 2018
The majority of private sector tenants, 84%, are satisfied with their housing, according to the latest English Housing Survey report.
Desire for homeownership remains strong despite challenging prospects
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
According to new research, 70% of us say that the difficulties young people have getting onto the housing ladder is one of the biggest issues we have in Britain today.
1 in 10 spoilt UK pets have their own room at home
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
There is no denying that Brits are a nation of pet lovers. But the latest research from carried out by interiors retailer, Furniture123.co.uk, has shown the extent that some homeowners are prepared to go to in order to keep their fury friends happy
Over a third back property as the best bet for retirement
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
The UK’s love affair with property as an investment option shows no sign of wavering despite recent changes in tax rules affecting landlords who could face losing thousands of pounds in profit.
UK Apartment price rises outpacing other property types
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
New data from Halifax has shown that the average cost of an apartment in the UK has risen by £1,251 per month over the past five years, increasing in value by £75,074 over the period.
Surge of 'Second Steppers' calling on family and friends for financial help
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
Top tips to keep your home safe while on holiday
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
As millions of Brits prepare to pack their suitcases and head off on their summer holidays, their homes could be a prime target for criminals.
Are you failing to utilise £34,000 worth of space in your home?
Posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
New data from TalkTalk has revealed that despite 43% of us wanting to move to a bigger home, 15% of the average British home is unused - a staggering £34,000 worth of wasted space
First time buyer mortgage approvals up in May
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
The latest data and analysis from e.surv has shown that 66,479 mortgages were approved in May - a rise of 6.4% against the previous month. First-time buyers significantly increased their share from 20.2% to 22.4% of the market.
RICS: First signs of stability returning to property market
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
The latest analysis of the UK housing market by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has revealed that new instructions have moved out of negative territory for the first time in over two years.
Five improvements that could improve your rental returns
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
Some renters are happy to pay over the odds for the most desirable or practical properties and landlords can increase their rental income by making some shrewd improvements.
Why UK Buy-to-Let remains very much alive
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
John Parker, Business Development Director at Surrenden Invest, shares his views on the UK buy-to-let market in 2018. Article from Property Reporter.
Nearly 4 million to use property to fund retirement
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
The latest research from OneFamily has has shown that around a fifth of over 50s are planning to draw income from their property to help fund retirement.
What are the main reasons for moving home?
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
With AA reporting that summer movers are planning to spend 3% less on a new home than they were at the start of the year the new AA research busts the myth that Britons are obsessed about buying and selling property to beat the market.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
What has happened to house prices since we won the World Cup in 1966?
Posted on Monday, June 11, 2018
UK house prices are 106 times higher than they were when England won the World Cup in 1966 – growing three times faster than wages,
Over 25% of parents would charge their kids interest on a home loan
Posted on Monday, June 11, 2018
According to the latest survey from Crowdfunding property service, UOWN, charity may begin at home, but not when it comes to the 'Bank of Mum and Dad', as over 25% of British parents admit they would charge interest on a home loan to their children.
Boost in demand for 5 year fixes
Posted on Monday, June 11, 2018
Data from LMS, has found that demand for five-year fixed rate re-mortgages has bounced back to hit 47% of the total re-mortgage market in April – the highest proportion in six months.
Councils receive new powers to deliver homes for local families
Posted on Monday, June 11, 2018
Councils will receive new powers to help them deliver the homes their communities need under proposed regulations published by Housing Minister Dominic Raab MP.
Rise in number of lenders offering interest-only mortgage options
Posted on Monday, June 11, 2018
The number of lenders offering interest-only mortgage products has increased modestly over the past two years, according to the latest research from Moneyfacts.
‘Staycation’ boom offering opportunities for holiday let investors
Posted on Monday, June 4, 2018
Landlords and property investors are taking notice of a growing trend of the Great British ‘staycation’, with a number of them looking to rent out holiday properties on a short-term basis.
Bank of Mum and Dad to lend £5.7bn this year
Posted on Monday, June 4, 2018
The latest data and analysis from Legal & General and Cebr, has shown that parental help equating to an eye-watering £5.7bn will be needed for quarter of housing transactions during this year.
Re-mortgaging surge among UK landlords
Posted on Monday, June 4, 2018
According to the latest analysis from Paragon, a re-mortgaging surge among UK landlords is under way with intermediaries reporting that 52% of BTL mortgage cases during Q1 this year were for landlords seeking to re-mortgage.
Are millennials hopeless around the house?
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Well over half of people wrongly assume that millennials are useless when it comes to carrying out practical jobs around the home, according to new research by the Federation of Master Builders.
Brits increase Eurozone property spending by two thirds in a year
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Data released by international payment specialist, Fexco Corporate Payments, has shown that sun hungry Brits have increased the amount they spend on European property by two thirds.
Average price of apartments rises £1,250 a month
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Research from Halifax has revealed that, across the UK over the last five years, the average price of an apartment has risen by £1,251 per month - equating to £75,074.
Savvy millennials tweak spending habits to get on the property ladder
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Data from MoneySuperMarket has revealed that millennials are not as green as they are avocado looking. Growing numbers are making tactical changes to their financial behaviour to help them get on the housing ladder with their first mortgage.
Homeownership not top priority for the younger generation
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
According to the latest research from TopCashback.co.uk, although the vast majority (95%) of millennials would like to buy a house in the future, 31% do not think it will happen and 29% are only hopeful about their chances. Just 39% are sure they will buy a property.
Market Update
Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Top Tips when buying a non-standard home
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
Buying a house is often described as one of the most stressful experiences you’ll go through in your adult life. However, according to new analysis, it can become even more of a headache if your dream home is one of five non-standard property types deemed too ‘high risk’ for most high street banks to lend on.
Majority of millennials considering a joint mortgage
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
The latest research from M&S Bank has found that due to the challenges involved with getting on the property ladder, buying with multiple friends or siblings is becoming an increasingly popular option for young, aspiring homeowners.
First time buyers driven towards new build properties
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
Research from the House Builders Federation has shown that the affordability of the Government's Help to Buy scheme combined with the energy efficiency and cheaper running costs of new build homes are leading to more and more first-time buyers taking the new build route into home ownership.
Top tips when hiring a builder
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
The latest research by Direct Line Home Insurance has revealed that approximately half a million homeowners go over budget when redecorating or renovating their new home each year.
How much could an average long term property investment earn you?
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
New research and analysis by specialist mortgage lender, Kent Reliance, has shown that long-term property investment could still deliver significant returns for landlords, despite recent regulatory and taxation changes.
Mortgage arrears fall to lowest levels since 1994
Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2018
The latest data from UK Finance has revealed that mortgage arrears fell to a new record low during Q1 this year, 8% fewer than in the same period a year ago and the lowest level since 1994 when records began.
Planning permissions hit record high
Posted on Monday, May 7, 2018
The latest report from HBF and Glenigan has revealed that planning permissions were granted for over 350,000 new homes in 2017, a clear demonstration of the commitment of house builders to deliver even more new homes in the years to come.
What will the UK’s homes look like in five, 10 and 20 years’ time?
Posted on Monday, May 7, 2018
With the government pledging to build 300,000 new homes a year, AXA Insurance has asked the public what they think homes will look like in five, 10 and 20 years’ time.
Number of buy-to-let products hits record high
Posted on Monday, May 7, 2018
The number of buy-to-let products on the market has reached an all-time high, passing the 2,000 mark for the first time on record, according to new Moneyfacts data.
Top tips for efficiently heating your home in spring
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
Spring is finally here! Meaning lighter evenings and warmer weather should be on its way. CORGI HomePlan have created some top tips on how you can make small changes around your home over spring, to maintain an efficient heating system and to save money on your energy bills.
Top tips for FTBs when applying for a mortgage
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
The number of first-time buyers in the UK reached a 10-year high of 359,000 in 2017 thanks to a raft of supportive Government initiatives last year - from cuts to stamp duty and progressive policies like Help to Buy and Right to Buy.
Lifetime mortgage growth driven by over 55s upsizing
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
Data from OneFamily has found that over 55s are increasingly likely to use lifetime mortgages to upsize and that buying a new property is now the fourth most popular reason for using a lifetime mortgage as retirees move to be closer to family and friends, or better amenities.
Stamp duty cut to benefit 1m FTBs over the next 5 years
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
The latest government statistics have shown that the cuts to stamp duty which were announced during November's budget have already benefitted 69,000 first-time buyers.
ARLA Propertymark: Business as usual for UK rental sector
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
Data from ARLA Propertymark has revealed that the number of prospective tenants registered per member branch saw a rise of 8% during March - with the supply of rental accommodation also rising.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, April 29, 2018
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
UK Finance: Homeowner purchases at 10 year high
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
The latest data and analysis from UK Finance has revealed that mortgage lending for first-time buyers, home movers and re-mortgagors all saw an increase during February when compared to the previous year.
Sentiment remains high for BTL landlords
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
Despite what has been widely perceived as an attack on landlords by the government in the form of tax hikes and restricting new legislation, a new report from specialist bank, Aldermore, has revealed that many private landlords are feeling positive about the future of the market and the opportunity it presents
Rental sector remains resilient
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
The latest data and analysis from HomeLet has revealed rental prices across the UK have shown a modest rise in the first quarter of 2018. Overall, rents have risen by 0.9% in the last twelve months, equating to an average monthly increase of £3 per property.
Why UK Buy-to-Let is very much alive
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
John Parker, Business Development Director at Surrenden Invest, shares his views on the UK buy-to-let market in 2018.
A fifth of UK areas now see homes earning more than their occupants
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
New research from Halifax has shown that roughly 18% of UK local areas have seen average house prices increase by more than total average pay over the last two years.
Top tips for a stress free move with your pet
Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018
April could see over 50,000 people moving home. However, although this can be an exciting time, the disruption and anxiety caused by a home move can also cause stress to our pets. Dogs in particular like consistency and a home move can create behavioural problems.
Brits spend more than £40 billion making their house a home
Posted on Monday, April 9, 2018
As National Home Improvement Month begins, NAEA Propertymark reveals UK homeowners have spent a total of £41 billion doing up their homes over the last five years1 – an average of £1,875 each.
UK landlords 'remain optimistic in spite of challenges'
Posted on Monday, April 9, 2018
Despite the uncertainty of Brexit and increasing tax burdens for landlords, buy-to-let (BTL) investors remain largely optimistic about the prospects for the market in the year ahead.
IMLA: Lending set to rise for eighth straight year
Posted on Monday, April 9, 2018
Gross mortgage lending in 2018 is predicted to rise for the eighth year in a row to reach the highest level since 2007, according to the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association’s (IMLA) fifth annual market review and forecast.
Buy-to-let rental yields remain strong
Posted on Monday, April 9, 2018
Buy-to-let investors earned an average gross rental yield of 5.2% in the second half of 2017, BM Solutions found.
Landlord optimism remains, despite market challenges
Posted on Monday, April 9, 2018
The results of a recent professional landlords’ sentiment survey speaks volumes for the resilience of the buy-to-let market, despite the challenges over the past few years.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, March 30, 2018
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
What are the top ten dream home features for kids?
Posted on Friday, March 30, 2018
A survey by conducted by home developer, Strata, which quizzed over 2,000 children aged 3-11, has revealed some amazing ideas.
UK Finance: Gross lending up 4.9 per cent in February
Posted on Friday, March 30, 2018
February gross mortgage lending was £19bn, up 4.9% year-on-year but down 15% month-on-month, according to UK Finance.
Local authorities given power to double council tax on empty homes
Posted on Friday, March 30, 2018
New legislation will enable local authorities to double council tax rates on properties that have been empty for two years or more.
New home owner satisfaction return to a high
Posted on Monday, March 26, 2018
According to the latest National New Home Customer Satisfaction Survey, over 86% of new home buyers would recommend their builder to a friend - a rise of 2% against last year’s result.
Digital connectivity boost for UK property prices
Posted on Monday, March 26, 2018
In his spring statement, the chancellor allocated the first wave of funding to help roll out high-speed broadband across the UK in a bid to upgrade the country’s digital infrastructure.
UK Finance: First Time Buyer numbers up 7% year-on-year
Posted on Monday, March 26, 2018
The latest data from UK Finance has shown a steady strengthening of the UK property market despite fears over Brexit and increasing political uncertainty.
Average 5 year Buy To Let rates fall to record low
Posted on Monday, March 26, 2018
New data from Moneyfacts has revealed that the average five-year fixed rate has dropped to 3.43%, a record-low not seen since October last year.
Spring is here - time to storm-proof your home
Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2018
Over 50s insurer, SunLife, offers their advice on storm-proofing your home.
Popularity for longer-term mortgage products surges
Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2018
New data from Paragon has shown that mortgages of 5 years or more are now the product of choice for 48% of applicants - over taking 2 year deals for the first time.
Top tips to keep your home secure during half term
Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2018
With thousands of homes due to be left empty for the week, half-term can be a popular period for burglars to strike.
Could smaller sites and builders speed up housing delivery?
Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2018
According to the Federation of Master Builders, getting more small builders back into the market and focusing attention on the potential of smaller sites is crucial to improving the speed of new home construction.
Opportunities to boost rental yields in light of new energy-efficiency rules
Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2018
We are just a few weeks away from another significant change for residential buy-to-let landlords.
How much should you charge your adult children for living at home?
Posted on Friday, March 2, 2018
The latest research by comparethemarket.com has found that a staggering 74% of parents feel there isn’t enough information on hand when it comes to knowing how much to charge their adult children for living at home, despite over half (53%) admitting to doing so.
NAEA: Housing market starts 2018 positively
Posted on Friday, March 2, 2018
New data from NAEA Propertymark has revealed that during January there was a 37% rise in the number of people looking for a new home with the supply of available properties and the number of sales agreed also increasing.
Could UK house prices double over a 25-year period?
Posted on Friday, March 2, 2018
Financial comparison site money.co.uk predicts our future finances by analysing ONS data from the past 80 years to make a forecast for the next 10 years, taking into consideration inflation and rising expenses.
Homeowners failing to take property into account in retirement financing
Posted on Friday, March 2, 2018
"We still find evidence of a collective blind-spot when it comes to property supporting retirement income."
Market Update
Posted on Friday, February 23, 2018
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Moving home costs UK £9.7bn in 2017
Posted on Monday, February 19, 2018
The latest research from removal company comparison website, Compare My Move, has revealed that UK homeowners spent £9,746,745,840 on moving house in 2017, with the average UK homeowner facing £9,580 in additional moving costs.
One million new homes could be built on brownfield land
Posted on Monday, February 19, 2018
A recently published analysis of Brownfield Land Registers has confirmed that there is enough space on brownfield land to build at least one million new homes.
First time buyer numbers up 7.4% during 2017
Posted on Monday, February 19, 2018
The latest data released from UK Finance has revealed a dramatic surge in the number of people taking their first step on to the property ladder.
Top tips for landlords to keep their boilers in check
Posted on Monday, February 19, 2018
Last winter saw a record number of claims for faulty boilers according to new analysis by landlord insurer Direct Line for Business. Claims rose 5.2% last year compared to the winter of 2015/16. The volume of claims for faulty boilers has been consistently increasing for the last five years.
Retired homeowners gained almost £8000 in last year
Posted on Monday, February 19, 2018
The latest data and analysis from over-55s financial specialist, Key Retirement, has revaled that despite a rollercoaster year for the property market, retired homeowners have gained more than £7,900 each in property wealth in the past year.
Cost of homeownership hits lowest level in 10 years
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
Since 2007 the average UK house price has increased by 28%, while rents across the nation have also jumped by 15%. According to the ONS, the average weekly expenditure of the UK household has also reached its highest in the last decade having increased 24% since 2007.
UK new home registrations up 6% in 2017
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
According to NHBC’s latest new home statistics, over 160,000 new homes were registered to be built in the UK last year, an increase of 6% on 2016.
Dress for success when you want to sell your property
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
In a competitive property market, property dressing expert Shelly Robinson of Robinson Stone explains how to achieve the quickest and most desirable sale of your property.
How many toilets do we really need?
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
The latest research from Direct Line Home Insurance has revealed that Hollywood may be affecting the way we want our bathrooms to look.
First time buyer numbers at highest level for a decade
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
The latest data and analysis from Halifax has shown that despite the average deposit rising 91% from £17,740 in 2007 to £33,3392 ten years later, there seems to be no end to first-time-buyers storming onto the property ladder.
Buy to let demand surges amongst expats
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
According to data from expat mortgage broker, Cherry Mortgage and Finance, despite tougher lending criteria, there has been a 29% increase in the number of expats in Australia looking to invest in UK buy-to-let property over the last 12 months.
Top tips to make your home move green
Posted on Saturday, February 10, 2018
Data and technology business, buzzmove, has calculated that a typical home move creates an average 16.8kg of CO2 emissions. With 1.8 million moves a year in the UK, the company has some ideas on how homemovers can take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
Why we turn up the heat at home
Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2018
According to a new survey, people are more likely to turn up the heating in their house for visitors rather than their partner or kids
Limited company buy to let products now account for one in four
Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2018
New data from Mortgages for Business has revealed that the proportion of buy-to-let products available to limited companies increased during the last quarter of 2017 from 21% to just under a quarter of all products.
Lloyds Bank: Home-movers at highest level in 10 years
Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2018
The latest data and analysis from Lloyds Bank has revealed that the UK is on the move. According to the figures, the number of people moving home is at its highest level since 2007.
Are we too reliant on home appliances?
Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2018
A new report is claiming that Britain has become a nation reliant on appliances, unable to carry out basic tasks without the help of a gadget.
Rightmove: Housing demand rises 9%
Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2018
The latest report from Rightmove has revealed a busy start to 2018. According to the site, visits are up by over 9% so far in January when compared to same period last year.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the market earlyi in 2018
Government launches Homes England in homebuilding drive
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
New national housing agency Homes England has been launched by housing secretary Sajid Javid to help the country build more homes.
Average first time buyer house price remains stable as high LTV rates dip
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
Data and analysis from AmTrust has revealed improvements for first-time-buyers with smaller deposits as average interest rates fell slightly and the average first-time buyer house price stayed level.
10 principles of Green Home Design
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
Charlie Luxton, spokesperson for The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, shares his top ten tips on how to build a green, low energy home.
Wildlife Trust calls for nature-friendly housing developments
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
New guidelines published by The Wildlife Trusts have shown how new housing developments can be built in a way that provides people with greener, inspirational homes which help to reverse decades of wildlife and habitat decline.
Decorating on a budget
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
Julia Kendell, BBC’s DIY SOS guest designer and spokesperson for The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, shares her tips on how to decorate a home on a budget:
Why UK property will be a good bet in 2018
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
2017 was a mixed bag for the UK residential market. Hamish Pound, Head of Investment, IP Global, shares his thoughts on why we shouldn't give up on UK property just yet. Article first appeared in Property Reporter
Transform your home for under £5,000
Posted on Monday, January 15, 2018
Michael Holmes, spokesperson for The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show shares his secrets on how to transform your home for under £5,000.
Could adding rent payments to credit scores help tenants become future buyers?
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
The growing movement to ensure that rental payments are added to credit scores as a mandatory requirement could provide a huge incentive for the next generation of home buyers.
Re-mortgage approvals at highest levels since 2008
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
New data and analysis conducted by the Bank of England has revealed that the rise in November's mortgage approvals was driven by a continuing increase in re-mortgaging approvals. According to the report, re-mortgages have now reached a level not seen since 2008.
Stamp duty cut drives up first time buyer confidence
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
New research from Foresters Friendly Society has revealed that as many as 58% of millennials currently saving for a house deposit are more confident about achieving their goal following the Chancellor’s stamp duty changes.
First time buyers set to become largest buyer group in 2018
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
According to the latest data and analysis from Hometrack, first-time buyers will overtake homeowners to become the largest buyer group next year, accounting for a 35% share of all sales.
Which room in the house is the least frequently updated?
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
As a nation obsessed with DIY and home improvement, house proud Brits update their homes on a regular basis, but it appears they are overlooking one important room, according to new research.
Government claims stamp duty cut has helped 16,000 first-time buyers
Posted on Monday, January 8, 2018
The government has claimed that more than 16,000 first-time buyers have saved thousands of pounds as a result of the stamp duty changes.
Rightmove: House price growth to slow further in 2018
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Rightmove forecasts 1% growth in new seller asking prices in 2018 as a result of upwards price pressures in some sectors and locations mitigated by negative price forces in others.
Bathrooms are the rooms most likely to cause an argument
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
New research from Direct Line Home Insurance has found that bathroom battles are wreaking havoc on relationships, with over 800,000 Brits admitting that they have contributed to a split or the end of a friendship.
Equity release levels hit record high
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
The latest figures from equity release provider, Responsible Equity Release, has revealed that an end of year surge is responsible for record levels of homeowners taking out an equity release plan for the second consecutive month.
NAEA and ARLA: 2018 predictions
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
NAEA Propertymark and ARLA Propertymark share their predictions for the rental/buying market, looking ahead to 2018.
Top tips on preparing your property for sale in 2018
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Selling and purchasing property, for many, will be one of 2018’s biggest considerations
Red front doors offer the warmest welcome says research
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
If you want to give visitors a warm welcome to your home – paint your front door red, say Leeds Building Society members.
Could converting space above shops help solve the housing crisis?
Posted on Wednesday, December 20, 2017
According to new research by the Federation of Master Builders, more than 90% of MPs think that converting empty spaces above shops could help reverse the current housing shortage in their constituency.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, December 11, 2017
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their end of year views on the property market
Halifax: UK housing stock value hits £6 trillion
Posted on Monday, December 11, 2017
The latest Halifax research shows that, over the last decade, the total value of privately owned UK housing stock has risen by £1.94 trillion - passing the £6 trillion mark for the first time.
Pensioners opt to boost finances with property wealth
Posted on Monday, December 11, 2017
According to new analysis, retirees are boosting their finances by an average £71,500 from their property wealth.
HMRC: First time buyers can get post-Budget stamp duty refunds
Posted on Monday, December 11, 2017
HMRC has confirmed that first-time buyers will be able reclaim stamp duty costs that have been inadvertently paid on house purchases made since the Budget.
Private rented sector value climbs to £1.4trn
Posted on Monday, December 11, 2017
The value of the PRS in Great Britain stands at nearly £1.4trn, a rise of 6.4% or £82.6bn in the last year.
How much do homeowners spend on their property within 5 years of purchase?
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
According to new research, after the deposit, searches and solicitor fees, property buyers continue to spend on their new home.
Winter Blues: top tips to beat burst pipe misery
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
According to new statistics from NFU Mutual, in 2016 claims for mopping up damage caused by burst pipes averaged a massive £5,000. So as Britain faces sub-zero temperatures this week, NFU Mutual is advising homeowners to prepare their property for winter’s worst.
Conveyancing Association wants tough leasehold reform
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
The trade body made the proposals in its response to a Government consultation on leasehold reform.
Smart-tech remains the number one deterrent for burglars
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
New data from Co-op Insurance has claimed that homeowners who have been a victim of a break in are two and a half times more likely to be targeted again than someone who hasn’t.
Right To Build attracts 33,000
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
New research by the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA) has found that, since 1st April 2016, over 33,000 people have signed up to Right to Build registers across England to secure a plot to design and build their dream home.
Retired renter numbers to triple by 2032
Posted on Sunday, December 3, 2017
The latest research and analysis from Scottish Widows has revealed that one in eight retirees, over 1 million people, will be renting by 2032 – treble today’s figure.
Market Update
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their post budget views on the property market
Landlords reassured over Budget tax change impact
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
Buy to let experts are reassuring landlords they will be largely unaffected by Budget changes to limited company taxation, despite reports to the contrary.
HMRC: Property transactions up 9.2% in October
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
The number of UK residential property transactions was up 9.2% in October, compared to the same month last year, the latest figures from HMRC show.
Over one-third of parents won’t or can’t help their kids get on the property ladder
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
A new poll commissioned by Royal London, has revealed that 34% of people say they have not and do not intend to offer financial support to children and grandchildren to help them get on the property ladder.
Equity release customer numbers at record high in October
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
Despite the issues facing the wider UK housing market, the popularity of equity release shows no sign of waning, with the number of homeowners releasing equity from their properties hitting a new high in October, according to the latest figures from leading equity release provider Responsible Equity Release.
Top tips for buyers and sellers
Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2017
Preparing your home for viewers, or “staging” to use the correct term, is important. Not only will it ensure your property is sold faster, but it can also potentially add thousands of pounds to its value.
One in ten UK homes are ex-council properties
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
The latest figures from new property search portal, Ex-Council.com, have revealed that former local authority homes comprise one in ten houses in the UK.
Homebuyers refunded £160m in over-paid stamp duty
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
According to the latest figures from HMRC, stamp duty rules designed to clamp down on buy-to-let landlords have landed ordinary homebuyers with unexpected tax bills totalling over £160m which have then had to be refunded.
Successful planning permissions on the rise
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
According to government data, despite planning applications falling by a quarter, the last 10 years has seen the percentage of successful grants grow from 82% to 88%.
Is DIY good for our well-being?
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
According to a new study, 75% of millennials believe DIY has a positive effect on their well-being, despite being a generation of convenience.
What are the best additions for adding value to your home?
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
With growing families and the ever-constant need for more space in life, a lot of people are facing the decision whether to improve or move.
ARLA Propertymark: The top reasons why tenants lose their deposit
Posted on Monday, November 13, 2017
Tenancy deposits are there to protect landlords in the event of unpaid rent or damage to their property. Most tenants will get their full deposits back, but there are instances where the landlord may need to keep part – or all – of it to cover various costs. ARLA Propertymark asked its members for the most common reasons why tenants don’t get their deposits back.
First-time buyers underestimate financial costs of buying
Posted on Monday, November 6, 2017
There is a lack of understanding around the house buying process and the associated costs amongst those looking to buy their first home, research by Aldermore has shown.
Successful planning applications up 6% since 2007
Posted on Monday, November 6, 2017
If you're planning a major development, you could be in luck. Data uncovered by Pure Commercial Finance has shown that it’s easier than ever before to get planning permission in England.
Eight possible obstacles to buying a property if you’ve ever had a criminal conviction
Posted on Monday, November 6, 2017
Regrettable choices and mistakes are a part of growing up that almost everyone experiences at numerous points throughout their lives. Unfortunately, for the unlucky few, some mistakes are easier to forget and move on from than others when it comes to the decision to purchase a home and step onto the property ladder.
Top tips to storm proof your home
Posted on Monday, November 6, 2017
In the 30th anniversary year of the Great Storm which saw the UK battered by hurricane-force winds, Halifax Home Insurance is advising homeowners to take suitable steps to protect their properties as Britain braces itself for wintery weather.
Equity release lending up 44%
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2017
Figures from the Equity Release Council show that equity release lending rose by 44% against the year in Q3 and passed £800 million in a single quarter for first time.
35-year mortgages see demand surge
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2017
New data from IMLA has found that 69%) of mortgage brokers have reported an increase in demand for 35-year mortgages.
Darker evenings is time to step up home security
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2017
With the cover of darkness to help cloak their movements, burglars will be looking to take advantage of the longer darker nights ahead.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
12% of homeowners plan to buy second home in next ten years
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2017
According to a new study, 12% of homeowners are saving to invest in a second property within the next decade, the majority of these individuals admit they’ve not fully researched the costs associated with doing so, such as stamp duty surcharges and void periods.
Homelet: UK rents up 2.1% in September
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2017
Rents in the UK rose by an average of 2.1% during September, according to data from HomeLet.
UK Finance: First time buyer lending up 16% in August
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2017
The level of first-time borrowing for house purchase was up on both month-on-month and year-on-year comparisons in August, the latest UK Finance figures show.
British homeowners warned that they are too trusting
Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2017
A third of British householders leave their windows open when they are out (35%) and one in ten (11%) even leave doors open when they are not at home.
Over-55 mortgage debt up 14% year-on-year
Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2017
New Aviva research has found that just 8% of over-55 homeowners who are retired are still paying off their mortgage, compared to 31% of those who are still working.
Pensioner property wealth hits record £1.1 trillion
Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2017
New data and analysis from Key Retirement has revealed that retired homeowners have earned £3,500 a month from their houses in the three months to the end of August as their total property wealth hit a new record high of £1.101 trillion.
UK rents continue to rise
Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2017
New data from Homelet has revealed that rents in the UK rose by an average of 2.1% during September, continuing the trend towards higher rents seen in recent months following a period in which rental price inflation was very low or even negative.
Over half of homeowners live within 15 miles of their home town
Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2017
More than half (55%) of homeowners end up buying a property within 15 miles of their home town, research from housebuilder David Wilson Homes has revealed.
Yorkshire Building Society: Majority of FTBs plan to rely on Bank of Mum and Dad
Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2017
A report by the Yorkshire Building Society has revealed that 59% of first-time buyers expect to receive financial help from parents or other members of their family.
Half of Brits will pay a premium for a ready-to-move-into home
Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2017
New research has found that 48% of Britons’ would pay a premium to be able to move in to a property immediately without having to do any renovation or replacement work.
HBF: New home permissions "highest on record"
Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2017
The number of planning permissions granted in the year to June 2017 is the highest seen annually since the Home Builders Federation and Glenigan began their Housing Pipeline reports in 2006.
England one million homes short of demand
Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2017
One million new homes are needed in England to meet the demands of a growing population after years of reducing new home build development, research from conveyancing search provider Search Acumen has found.
Over 18 million Brits set to inherit a property
Posted on Friday, September 29, 2017
New research among 2,000 UK adults by bridging lender MFS has revealed the intentions of those expecting to inherit a property.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, September 29, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
More private renters than mortgaged homeowners by 2025
Posted on Friday, September 29, 2017
There will be more private renters than homeowners with a mortgage by 2025, NatWest senior economist Sebastian Burnside has predicted.
More private renters than mortgaged homeowners by 2025
Posted on Friday, September 29, 2017
There will be more private renters than homeowners with a mortgage by 2025, NatWest senior economist Sebastian Burnside has predicted.
EPCs - ten years on
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
The 1st August 2017 saw the tenth anniversary of the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) as part of the requirements on a property owner looking to sell or let a property.
Bank of Mum and Dad UK’s most relaxed lender
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
The Bank of Mum and Dad is potentially the UK’s most lenient lender and its relaxed approach means it ends up writing off huge numbers of loans each year, according to research from Prudential.
New home building blocked by lack of land
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
Research by the Federation of Master Builders’ has identified that a lack of available small sites and a lack of finance top the list of barriers to SME house builders increasing their delivery of new homes.
Outlook for first time buyers looking more optimistic
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
New data and analysis covering Q3 2017 by specialist bank, Aldermore, has revealed that the outlook for first time buyers is slowly becoming more optimistic.
More first time buyers helped by grandparents than parents
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
New research by equity release referral service, Key Partnerships, has revealed that 34% of estate agents have seen a rise in first-time buyers being helped by grandparents compared with 26% who report an increase in parents helping out children.
Buying a home with a partner no longer seen as a long term commitment
Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2017
According to a new report from L&C Mortgages, despite 5.1 million UK adults delaying starting a family or getting hitched in order to buy a home, fewer than 8% see owning a property with a partner as a greater example of a long term commitment.
Almost four million over-55s plan to downsize
Posted on Sunday, September 10, 2017
Almost four million over-55s plan to downsize to a cheaper property later in life, research from Prudential has revealed.
Which feature adds the most value to bathrooms?
Posted on Sunday, September 10, 2017
Showerstoyou consulted 32 different estate agents, property professionals and designers from around the UK to find out how homeowners can maximise the value of their property when renovating their bathroom or adding a new one.
How to live off-grid and become self-sufficient
Posted on Sunday, September 10, 2017
In the modern age, sometimes it feels as though it would be impossible to leave everything behind and live a more self-fulfilling, and self-sufficient, lifestyle.
Halifax: Annual house price growth climbs to 2.6%
Posted on Sunday, September 10, 2017
According to the latest data and analysis from Halifax, house prices in the three months to August were 2.6% higher than in the same three months a year earlier.
Could multi-generation homes be the answer to future property plans?
Posted on Sunday, September 10, 2017
Young people living with two or three generations under one roof are better prepared for the responsibilities of owning a home, a new study constructed by new-homebuilder, Strata has revealed.
English housing starts reach highest level since 2008
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
Housing starts in England have reached their highest level since 2008, according to the latest government figures.
One in four move house to secure school catchment areas
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
24% of parents with school age children have either bought or rented a new property in order to secure an address within their desired school catchment area, according to research from Santander Mortgages.
Basements are in, conservatories are out – Britain’s tastes are changing
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
Research from Halifax Insurance, Dream Abode, shows that just one in five Brits (22%) lives in their dream home, and higher value ownership doesn’t always bring home happiness - almost two thirds (62%) of those who live in homes worth more than £500,000 say their current house isn’t their dream home.
Being a second stepper is harder than being a first time buyer
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
Homeowners ready to take their second step up the property ladder say it’s harder than getting on it in the first place according to the latest Lloyds Bank Second Steppers report, which tracks the ongoing plight of home owners looking to sell their first property whilst buying their second.
Cost of running a home almost half of average income
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
A study by home insurers MORE TH>N has found that owning a three-bedroom home in the UK comes with average annual running costs of £18,197, or £1,516 per month.
Bank of Mum and Dad funding £2.3bn of rental payments
Posted on Friday, September 1, 2017
The Bank of Mum and Dad will fund £2.3 billion of rental payments in 2017, paying out on average £415 every time a rental payment is made, according to new research from Legal & General and Cebr.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, August 25, 2017
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current market
ARLA Propertymark: Rents and demand remain high in July
Posted on Friday, August 25, 2017
The number of letting agents who saw rents rise for tenants remained at 31 per cent in July, up from 27 per cent in May, according to the latest figures from the Association of Residential Letting Agents.
First time buyers given boost by equity release
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2017
New research from Retirement Advantage has revealed that during the first half of 2017, 13 first-time buyers were helped onto the housing ladder every week thanks to relatives who released equity from their homes.
Building societies maintain high share of mortgage market
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2017
The latest data from the Building Societies' Association has revealed that developments in the wider economy are making it more challenging for homebuyers and savers.
Can energy saving improvements increase the value of your home?
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2017
A new report published by leading global real estate advisors CBRE Residential reveals the true environmental impact of residential property, suggests how to create truly eco-friendly homes and considers the long-term premiums attached.
Mortgage arrears and possessions decline in Q2 2017
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2017
The number of mortgages in arrears of 2.5% or more has reached its lowest level since 1994 at 88,200.
Compromise key when you are a first time buyer
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
Post Office Money surveyed more than 1000 people who made their property ownership goals a reality in the last 24 months and found that compromise was the key to realising their dreams.
Homelet: Confidence among landlords see rents rise in July
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
The latest report from Homelet has revealed that rental price inflation has returned in the UK, rising by 1.1%.
UK household wealth now over £10 trillion
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
Research from Lloyds has revealed that during 2016, total household wealth in the UK reached an estimated £10.5 trillion. This is an increase of £892 billion (or 9%) from £9.6 trillion in 2015.
UK leads the way for digital house hunting
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
A study from HSBC has found the UK is leading the way in online property research as 93% of prospective home buyers revealed they use online channels to enhance property search.
Multigenerational living increasing
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
Analysis from lifetime mortgage provider, OneFamily, using data from a survey of over 2,000 parents and grandparents across the UK, has revealed that 35% of the adult children who contribute to household bills pay a share based on what they earn.
New home registrations remain stable in quarter two
Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2017
Statistics from NHBC have revealed that during Q2, 40,000 new homes were registered to be built by developers due to a rise in the affordable homes sector.
Landlords adapt to new market as sentiments shift
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
The Buy to Let Britain report from Kent Reliance shows the 'shifting sentiment' in the market in response to the new tax landscape for landlords.
Internet access key for home movers
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
Over half (51%) of UK home movers find a weak internet connection stressful when moving, Money Supermarket data shows.
Hundreds of thousands to pay off mortgages with pension cash
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
Around 320,000 homeowners aged 51-65 are planning to use money from their pensions to pay off their mortgages, according to new research from retirement income provider Just Group.
Buy-to-let rates plateau but products soar ahead of Prudential Regulation Authority changes
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
The average two-year fixed BTL rate has fallen by 0.31% in 12 months but by just 1 basis point in 2017, from 2.92% in January to 2.91% in July, research from Moneyfacts shows.
Small builders forced to pass price squeezes onto consumers
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
A third of small building firms say that soaring material prices are squeezing their margins and almost a quarter have had to pass these price increases onto consumers, according to the latest research by the Federation of Master Builders.
Homebuyers pay average of £12,700 in stamp duty over lifetime
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2017
Homeowners spend an average £12,693 in total on stamp duty as they move up the housing ladder, according to research from Lloyds Bank.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, July 28, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
House sales see summer increase
Posted on Friday, July 28, 2017
New data and analysis from NAEA Propertymark has shown that sales for homes are up as buyers push through summer property transactions.
UK Finance: Gross mortgage lending up 9% in June
Posted on Friday, July 28, 2017
UK Finance has estimated that gross mortgage lending reached £22.1bn in June, 9 per cent above the total for May.
First time buyers getting older but appetite to buy remains strong
Posted on Friday, July 28, 2017
The average first-time buyer is getting older and richer, but the appetite for home ownership remains undimmed, according to the UK Finance mortgage board.
Rise in homebuyers choosing to live with friends over partners
Posted on Monday, July 17, 2017
According to a new survey conducted by online furniture retailer Furniture Choice, the homeownership market in the UK is evolving, with more tenants choosing to buy and live in homes with friends rather than with a partner or on their own.
NAEA Propertymark: Top tips to help you sell your house this summer
Posted on Monday, July 17, 2017
The summer can be a tricky time to sell a property, especially if it’s a family one, due to school holidays amongst other things, so NAEA Propertymark offers this advice for sellers putting their property on the market during this time.
Retirees cash in £6.9m of equity per day
Posted on Monday, July 17, 2017
A Key Retirement report has revealed that, during the first half of 2017, retired homeowners released £1.25bn in equity from their properties at the rate of £6.9m per day.
How the over 50s are 'future proofing' their homes
Posted on Monday, July 17, 2017
Recent analysis by the Saga Equity Release Advice Service has shown that, over the last year, there has been a 30% surge in equity release sales - revealing how older people are becoming increasingly comfortable with using the equity they have built up in their homes to improve their lifestyle and those of their families.
Limited companies surpass landlord borrowing for the first time
Posted on Monday, July 10, 2017
New data from Mortgages for Business has revealed that buy to let lending to limited companies hit a record 51% by volume during Q2 surpassing individual landlords for the first time.
Japanese Knotweed: let’s be solution not problem conscious
Posted on Monday, July 10, 2017
New research has revealed a high level of anxiety around Japanese knotweed with 78% admitting that they would be put off buying a property if they discovered the weed was present in the garden.
Smart technologies making traditional home contents obsolete
Posted on Monday, July 10, 2017
Research by E.ON has found that 73% of people have adopted smarter technologies in their homes, ditching traditional furnishings and items such as bookshelves in favour of smart hubs and solar panels.
New housing gets a £2.3bn investment boost
Posted on Monday, July 10, 2017
A £2.3 billion fund which could unlock 100,000 new homes in areas of high demand has been launched by the Communities Secretary, Sajid Javid.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, June 30, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
House prices rebound in June
Posted on Friday, June 30, 2017
The latest data and analysis from Nationwide has revealed that UK house prices rose 1.1% month-on-month in June, reversing the previous three months’ falls.
32% of second steppers rely on bank of Mum and Dad
Posted on Friday, June 30, 2017
The latest data from Lloyds has revealed that nearly a third (32%) of second steppers believe they will still rely on financial help from family and friends to move up the property ladder despite improved conditions for homeowners.
Pensioner property wealth hits £1.054 trillion
Posted on Friday, June 30, 2017
A new report from over-55s financial specialist, Key Retirement, has shown that in the past year retired homeowners have each earned more than £2,400 a month from their houses and have a combined property wealth of £1.054 trillion.
Top ten home improvements of 2017?
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
A new study from GoCompare Home Insurance has revealed that a new bathroom is the UK’s most popular home renovation with 39% of homeowners who carried out a major home improvement in the last five years splashing out on one
Top tips on how to keep your home cool this summer
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
It’s safe to say that as much as we in Britain look forward to a bit of sunshine. Whenever they arrive we suddenly find ourselves struggling to keep cool; even in our own homes we can feel as though we’re walking around in a sauna.
Help to Buy numbers reach 285,000
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
New statistics from DCLG have revealed that over 285,000 homeowners, including 240,000 first time buyers, have been supported by the government's Help to Buy schemes.
CML: Gross mortgage lending up 12% in May
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
The latest data and analysis from The Council of Mortgage Lenders has estimated that gross mortgage lending reached £20.1bn in May - a 12% increase on both April last month and on May last year, in which £17.9bn was advanced.
Majority of first time buyers fear negotiation
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
New research from Barclays has found that 52% of first time buyers have never negotiated and a further 53% admitted they fear missing out in the “extremely competitive” market if they were to negotiate.
Could the Bank of Mum and Dad help solve affordability issues?
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
New research from Legal & General has found that, with the potential to help 450,000 people onto the housing ladder every year, lifetime mortgages could be the best option for many.
Property transactions “resilient”
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2017
Property transactions rose almost 14% in the year to May, according to the latest figures from HMRC.
Average homeowner moves once every 19 years
Posted on Sunday, June 18, 2017
The average homeowner is moving once every 19 years, according to research from the Intermediary Lenders Association.
Bank of Mum and Dad risking IHT gift trap
Posted on Sunday, June 18, 2017
The latest research from Key Retirement has revealed that 47% of parents and grandparents do not understand the tax rules on gifting, and nearly three out of four (73%) say the rules are very complicated.
Alok Sharma appointed as new Housing Minister
Posted on Sunday, June 18, 2017
Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, has been appointed as the new housing and planning minister.
17% switch from downsizing to equity release
Posted on Sunday, June 18, 2017
Research from Bower Retirement has found that 17% of would-be downsizers decided instead to release property wealth through equity release.
'Property Attachment’ theory
Posted on Sunday, June 18, 2017
Research from My Home Move covers the phenomenon of ‘Property Attachment’ and looks at why 43% of UK homeowners have experienced a sense of ‘sadness, grief or loss’ after moving house.
First-time buyer completion rate up to 67%
Posted on Monday, June 12, 2017
Two thirds (67%) of first-time buyer applications reached completion in the first quarter of 2017, Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) research has revealed.
Housebuilding activity surges in May
Posted on Monday, June 12, 2017
UK housebuilding activity rebounded strongly in May after stuttering to a seven month low in March, the IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index has revealed.
Top plumbing tips when moving home
Posted on Monday, June 12, 2017
WaterSafe, the UK national accreditation body for approved plumbers, has created a quick and easy five-step guide for new home owners to check their plumbing is in tip top condition.
It's all in a name on new home developments
Posted on Monday, June 12, 2017
According to the latest research, it seems that ‘new build’ developers are drawing on nature and ‘country life’ for inspiration, as ‘Park’, ‘Green’ and ‘Gardens’ top the builders’ choice of titles for their new developments.
Most desirable features in a home
Posted on Monday, June 12, 2017
New research reveals that although the estate agents’ traditional refrain of ‘location, location, location’ still matters to a degree, it is not the only major factor potential homeowners look for.
DCLG: New build starts up 15%
Posted on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
In the year to March, annual new build dwelling starts were up 15 per cent compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from the Department for Community and Local Government.
What is the ideal ratio of bathrooms to bedrooms?
Posted on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
According to 70% of estate agents, a property should have two bathrooms for every three bedrooms to maximise its value and desirability.
1 in 3 new mortgages provided by building societies
Posted on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
According to the latest report from the Building Societies Association (BSA), despite a 'relatively subdued market', building societies are maintaining a high market share of mortgage lending approving one in three new mortgages across the UK in Q1 2017, as well as providing a third of loans made to first time buyers.
Over 50% increase in apartment prices since 2009
Posted on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
Average price growth for apartments, helped by the London market, have outperformed all other property types since 2009
Market Update
Posted on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their pre-election views on the property market
Noise is the biggest turn off for home buyers
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
New research from Plentific.com has revealed that homebuyers take noise pollution very seriously when it comes to buying their dream home.
The top 5 tenant “confessions”
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
New research from Lloyds Bank Business Insurance Services suggests that many small-scale private landlords forget that insuring a rental property is a very different kind of risk to insuring their own home.
What makes a good landlord?
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
New research by landlord insurer Direct Line for Business debunks the myth that landlords and tenants don’t see eye to eye.
What are the most sought after features of a modern UK home?
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
New research from Gocompare.com has revealed the most sought after features of a modern home in the UK.
First time buyer numbers continue to grow
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
According to the latest report from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), homebuyer numbers saw a marked increase on February figures as 61,700 loans were taken out during the month - a rise of 27% against February but down 12% on March 2016.
Top Tips for moving home with your pets
Posted on Saturday, May 20, 2017
David Wilson Homes East Midlands has teamed up with the RSPCA to provide pet owners with advice on making moving home as stress-free as possible for their animals.
Cash property purchases reach a new high
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
Research from IMLA has found that a record amount of cash was injected into residential property purchases in 2016.
Number of mortgage products at highest level since 2008
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
Analysis from Moneyfacts has revealed that residential mortgage product numbers have increased by 849 in the last year to reach its highest point since March 2008.
A quarter of all homeowners rely on friends and family to help purchase their home
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
Analysis and research by Legal & General and the Centre for Economics & Business Research (Cebr) shows that, in 2016, home buyers will receive £5 billion of help from families' and friends – equivalent to the annual lending of a top-ten mortgage business.
Halifax: House price growth flat in three months to April
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
UK house price rises were 3.8 per cent higher in the three months to April when compared to the same period last year, according to seasonally adjusted figures from Halifax.
Homeowners seek lower rates and longer deals
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
Re-mortgaging homeowners are seeking out lower interest rates and longer fixed deals, according to conveyancing service provider LMS.
1 in 5 rely on the Bank of Mum and Dad for home improvements after purchase
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2017
Research from home service provider, Pentific.com, has revealed that the Bank of Mum and Dad doesn't stop lending once the property has been purchased. One in five of us rely on the lender to finance our home improvements too.
Market Update
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Rightmove: Buyer activity at highest level since 2007
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
Increasingly stretched buyer affordability will continue to be a price moderator for sellers who are over-ambitious with their pricing, tempering the pace of price rises
Britain leaves behind £493m worth of valuables when moving home
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
According to the results of a survey, a quarter of careless homeowners are leaving behind a small fortune in forgotten possessions when moving home.
Equity release lending reaches record levels
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
The latest report and analysis from the Equity Release Council has revealed record annual growth in both lending and new customer volumes in Q1 following a record breaking 2016.
How much extra are Brits prepared to pay for their own garden?
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
A new survey, interviewing 2,000 gardening mad Brits, has revealed that we would be prepared to pay an average of £35,000 on top of a property value if it had a garden or outdoor space.
Aspiring first time buyers remain confident
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
Analysis from conveyancers My Home Move reveals that aspiring first time buyers remain ‘hopeful and confident’ about their chances to get a foot on the property ladder with 57% of respondents expecting to buy their first home by 2021.
Should older homeowners be incentivised to downsize and help first time buyers?
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
A survey by Equifax has revealed that 46% feel that they would support a government incentive to encourage older homeowners to downsize their properties to free up space for younger buyers.
Rise in planning permissions for new homes
Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2017
Permission for 293,127 new homes were granted in 2016, the highest yearly total since the HBF Housing Pipeline survey began in 2006 and a strong indicator that increases in house building are set to continue.
Buy to let still an attractive investment
Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2017
Buy to let is still viewed as an attractive investment despite the government crackdown on the sector, data from bridging lender Market Financial Solutions has found.
£1million mortgage volumes rise 24% in last year
Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2017
Analysis by peer to peer secured lending platform, Lendy, has found that the number of new residential mortgages worth over £1 million went up by 24% last year, as banks continue to favour lending to owner-occupiers and reduce lending to property developers.
Strong first time buyer activity sees home buying hit 10 year high
Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2017
Data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has revealed that during the first two months of the year house purchase loans were at their highest levels since 2007.
Close family helping first time buyers onto the property ladder
Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2017
Research from Nationwide has found that, in order to raise a deposit for their home, more than half of all first time buyers are reliant on their family.
Report claims majority of home buyers remain optimistic
Posted on Monday, April 10, 2017
Research from Tesco Bank has found that nearly three quarters of prospective home buyers are optimistic that they will find the right home this year.
What makes Brits fall in love with their property?
Posted on Monday, April 10, 2017
Wood flooring specialists Flooring Republic asked 1,000 Brits what led them to fall in love with their homes, and which factors they consider non-negotiable when buying a property - and between community appeal and room size, it seems Brits are swayed by more than an attractive price tag.
Average landlord loan to value drops to 35%
Posted on Monday, April 10, 2017
Paragon has revealed that gearing amongst landlords remained low in Q1 2017, with the average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio decreasing by 2% to 35%.
Government announce new brownfield land register
Posted on Monday, April 10, 2017
The government has announced that it has given councils new tools to speed up development of derelict and underused land for new homes.
NAEA Propertymark: House sales at 10 year high
Posted on Friday, March 31, 2017
Data from NAEA Propertymark has revealed that, during February, agreed house sales rose to a 10 year high - 74% of which were below the original asking price, suggesting sellers are becoming more realistic when it comes to property transactions.
Help to Buy has now assisted over 1 million people
Posted on Friday, March 31, 2017
The latest data released by HM Treasury has shown that the government has now supported more than one million people through its Help to Buy schemes, including 868,240 who have opened Help to Buy: ISAs offering government bonuses of up to £3000 for those buying their first home.
Over 20% of buyers have less than 15% deposits
Posted on Friday, March 31, 2017
Analysis from e.surv has found that over a fifth of mortgages in February were taken out by borrowers with small deposits - a substantially higher figure than both the previous month and the same point last year.
NAEA Propertymark: Top 10 improvements to add value to your home
Posted on Friday, March 31, 2017
April is National Home Improvement Month which encourages home owners to improve their homes. The NAEA Propertymark top ten of home improvement tips to increase the value of your home:
First time buyers relying on 'Bank of Mum and Dad' at historic high
Posted on Friday, March 31, 2017
According to research by the Social Mobility Commission, the proportion of first-time buyers relying on inherited wealth or loans from the 'bank of mum and dad' has reached a historic high with no end in sight for the trend.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, March 27, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Retired homeowners’ property wealth at record high
Posted on Monday, March 27, 2017
The latest report from Key Retirement has revealed that over-65 homeowners’ property wealth has hit a new record of £1.072 trillion.
UK house prices remain strong
Posted on Monday, March 27, 2017
The latest UK House Price Index from the Office of National Statistics and Land Registry has revealed that, across the UK, the average price of a home has have increased by 6.2% in the year to January 2017, up from 5.7% in the year to December 2016.
RICS: Tenant demand rises for third consecutive month
Posted on Saturday, March 18, 2017
The latest report from RICS has shown new buyer enquiries remain flat and have now failed to see any meaningful growth since November 2016. Near term expectations remain positive but point to a relatively modest rise in activity in the months to come.
WiFi is top requirement for first time buyers
Posted on Saturday, March 18, 2017
A new survey by Principality Building Society has revealed first time buyers would prioritise hooking up their WiFi and TV when moving into their new home…before even having a sofa to sit on.
Bank of England: First-time buyer share of mortgage market is highest since 2007
Posted on Saturday, March 18, 2017
The proportion of first-time buyers getting mortgages in the fourth quarter of 2017 was the highest since records began in 2007, according to figures published today by the Bank of England.
Lifetime mortgages see 22% rise in popularity
Posted on Saturday, March 18, 2017
New Equity Release Council data has highlighted that, in terms of customer numbers, lifetime mortgages became the fastest growing segment of the mortgage market during 2016.
First time buyers fill the gap as buy to let demand cools
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
The latest data from Mortgage Advice Bureau has found that as demand slows in the buy-to-let sector there has been a rise in first time buyers buying their first homes.
74% of first time buyers paid stamp duty in 2016
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
A new report from Yorkshire Building Society has revealed that during 2016 almost three quarters of first time buyers paid stamp duty - a rise of 53% compared with a decade earlier.
Homeowners undervaluing their contents insurance by £100bn
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
New research by Admiral Home Insurance has revealed that homeowners across the country could be undervaluing their contents insurance by £100bn, despite a third believing their possessions are at risk.
Top tips to boost your property’s kerb appeal
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
According to several studies it takes the average buyer no more than eight seconds to decide whether or not they like your property, so keeping this in mind, kerb appeal should be a priority when trying to sell your home as first impressions account for much of the overall impression the property has on any potential buyer.
Nationwide reports a steady rise for UK house prices
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
The latest data from Nationwide has shown that during February, the average price of a home in the UK increased slightly to £205,846 - representing a rise of 0.6%.
CML: Over 60,000 shared ownership loans sold since 2006
Posted on Monday, March 6, 2017
Data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders has revealed that there were more than 60,000 shared ownership mortgages advanced since 2006.
Increasing landlord confidence as awareness of BTL changes improves
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
Rising levels of awareness of the implications of buy to let tax changes have led to an increase in confidence among landlords, the latest Paragon Private Rented Sector trends report reveals.
Cash landlords at highest levels in 10 years
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
The proportion of landlords paying in cash for a property reached 61% in January 2017, the highest since records began in 2007.
CML: January gross lending highest since 2008
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
The Council of Mortgage Lenders says gross mortgage lending hit £18.9bn in January, up 6 per cent month on month and 2% year-on-year.
Kitchens lead the way when it comes to influencing potential buyers
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
The latest survey from home services marketplace, Plentific.com, has revealed that a new kitchen is the most effective home improvement for influencing a potential buyer’s final decision as well as their offer.
Tenant demand still rising say landlords
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
New data from Paragon Mortgages has revealed that tenant demand for private rented accommodation is continuing to rise.
Market Update
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2017
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
CML: Mortgage repossessions down
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
With interest rates at rock-bottom for so long, it should follow that the number of properties repossessed should be at the lowest level in more than 30 years
A quarter of couples argue over DIY improvements
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
The latest survey from Plentific.com has revealed that 27% of couples have argued at least once over home improvements.
First time buyers increasingly relying on two generations to buy a home
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
New independent research for equity release referral service, Key Partnerships, has revealed that in order for some first time buyers to get their foot on the property ladder they need help form two generations of their family.
Shared ownership sees a popularity surge
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
A new report from mover conveyancing services provider, My Home Move, has found that the number of shared ownership purchases increased by over 130% in the last six years.
Mortgage affordability shows “noticeable improvement”
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
New research from Halifax has found that, since the pre-crisis peak of 2007, there has been a noticeable improvement in mortgage affordability across the majority of all local authority districts.
New homes: Registrations top 150,000 in 2016
Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2017
According to new data, more than 150,000 new homes were registered in the UK by NHBC in 2016, the second highest in almost a decade.
Remortgage approvals at 8 year high
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
Remortgage approvals continued to rise in December, hitting a new eight-year high of 47,721
Help To Buy ISA: 335,750 first time buyers helped
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
Recent figures released by The Office of National Statistics have revealed where in the UK the scheme is most popular.
Nationwide: House price growth remains stable
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
The latest report from Nationwide has revealed that there was a 0.2% month-on-month rise in average house prices during January - with annual house price growth remaining broadly stable at 4.3%.
Buy-to-let landlords undeterred by stamp duty surcharge
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
The number of second homes liable to pay stamp duty increased to 62,800 in the final quarter of last year, up from 56,200 in Q3 and 30,400 in Q2, suggesting that many people believe that investment in buy-to-let property is still worth pursuing.
Home improvement spend to surge in 2017
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
Looking at individual areas, flooring is set to experience the biggest increase in investment, with an average of 29% looking to spend more on this in 2017
Rental growth slows
Posted on Monday, February 6, 2017
Annual rental growth has slowed to 0.7% – falling from 4.7% seven months before, HomeLet’s Rental Index for January has found.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2017
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
CML: 2016 mortgage lending reached £246bn
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2017
In 2016 mortgage lending totalled £246bn – a 12% increase from 2015’s figure of £220bn according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
2016 was busiest year since 2007
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2017
2016 was the busiest year for housing since 2007 as 1.24 million people moved home, figures from HMRC show.
Landlords: February is the peak month for boiler repairs
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2017
New analysis by landlord insurer Direct Line for Business reveals February is the peak month for boiler repair claims, up 163% compared to the monthly average.
English housing need outpacing supply
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2017
The need for housing in England has in recent years grown faster than its supply, and housebuilding needs to increase across the country.
Rightmove: Robust supply and demand keeps house price inflation steady
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2017
The latest Rightmove statistics report a 0.4% monthly increase in the price of property coming to market - very similar to the 0.5% rise recorded in the same period 12 months ago.
Homes supply and demand gap widened by 370,000 in five years
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2017
The gap between the number of homes being built and demand to buy has increased by 370,000 in the past five years in England.
Halifax: First time buyer numbers hit ten year high
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2017
The number of first time buyers hit a ten-year high in 2016, according to Halifax research.
Prevention is better than cure to beat winter plumbing damage
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2017
Prevention is always better than cure and protecting plumbing before a drop in temperature can dramatically reduce the chances of any damage being caused
Buy to let purchases “returned to normal” in last quarter
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2017
Buy to let purchases took a greater share of the market in the back end of 2016, prompting Mortgages for Business chief executive David Whittaker to say the market has “returned to normal”.
New home planning approvals at a ten year high
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
The number of planning permissions granted for new homes reached a ten year high in the 12 months to September, according to the Home Builders Federation (HBF).
Rise in limited company buy to let finance applications
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
Landlords are increasingly buying through a limited company, Mortgages for Business’ Limited Company Buy to Let Index has revealed.
Government to build thousands of discounted homes for first time buyers
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
The government will build thousands of discounted homes for first time buyers this year on brownfield sites, according to housing minister Gavin Barwell.
Top 10 interior design trends for 2017
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
This year the emphasis within people's homes will be on an intensely natural environment
RICS: UK House prices set to increase by 3% in 2017
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
House prices in the UK will see an average increase of 3% over the course of the new year as the number of transactions stabilises according to the RICS housing forecast for 2017
The UK’s favourite household items
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
A report from Lloyds Bank Insurance takes a look at what gadgets have topped the UK’s most owned household items list.
£60m housebuilding fund established with stamp duty revenue
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
The government has set up an annual £60m fund to help communities ‘affected by second homeownership’ using revenue accumulated from stamp duty hikes.
Homeownership still important to young Brits
Posted on Friday, January 6, 2017
A UK-wide study from First Direct highlights the meaning of success to people across the UK and reveals what they deem as ‘successful’ and important throughout different stages of their lives.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, December 29, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the property market as we enter 2017
60% of first time buyers say stamp duty reform would help them buy
Posted on Friday, December 23, 2016
Research published by Yorkshire Building Society has shown that almost two in three aspiring homeowners would be more likely to buy if they didn’t have to pay stamp duty.
CML to collect buy to let data in 2017
Posted on Friday, December 23, 2016
The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) will begin collecting buy to let lending data in 2017.
House price increases outstrip pensioner income over last 20 years
Posted on Friday, December 23, 2016
House prices in England have grown at twice the rate of pensioner households’ disposable incomes over the past 20 years, according to new research from the Equity Release Council.
Over 55’s divorce rates boost equity release market
Posted on Friday, December 23, 2016
Research from Bower Retirement shows that rising divorce rates among women aged 55 and over is driving the equity release market.
Private housing stock now valued at £5.6 trillion
Posted on Sunday, December 18, 2016
The latest research by Halifax has found that privately owned housing stock in the UK has soared in value by £1.9 trillion (or 51%) to over £5.5 trillion in the last ten years.
CML: Landlord insights
Posted on Sunday, December 18, 2016
Research from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has revealed significant insights about landlords' profile, motivations, and plans for the future.
Help to Buy numbers hit 220,000
Posted on Sunday, December 18, 2016
According to the latest Help to Buy statistics, over 220,000 people have taken advantage of the scheme and have been able to buy a home using the Government’s Help to Buy products.
Over 65 homeowners seeing home values grow
Posted on Sunday, December 18, 2016
Over 65 homeowners typically saw their homes increase in value by £26,000 this year, Key Retirement’s Pensioner Property Index has revealed.
Michelin starred house prices!
Posted on Sunday, December 18, 2016
Latest research from Halifax has shown that house buyers who wish to live close to the finest restaurants should expect to pay a premium of 50%.
Landlord confidence bounces back
Posted on Monday, December 12, 2016
Despite the range of government measures looking to dampen down buy-to-let, landlords have grown more confident in how their portfolios will perform according to Kent Reliance’s Buy to Let Britain.
RICS: UK housing market shows signs of recovery
Posted on Monday, December 12, 2016
Sales activity in the UK residential market is increasing yet a slow start to 2017 is expected according to the November RICS Residential Market Survey.
Just 4% of affordable house purchases are new build
Posted on Monday, December 12, 2016
Just 4% of house purchases below £125,000 were new build in 2016 – signalling the challenge the government faces as it looks to kickstart the sector
Halifax: House price growth increases for first time in eight months
Posted on Monday, December 12, 2016
Data from Halifax has revealed that the annual rate of house price growth has risen from 5.2% in October to 6.0% in November - the first rise in 8 months.
First time buyer numbers increasing
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
First time buyers took their biggest ever share of the mortgage market in October – accounting for a third (32%) of sales.
New build starts up 10%
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
Quarterly new build starts were up 10% in Q3 from the previous year according to the housebuilding statistics released by the government.
Solar power popularity increases
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
A quarter of all UK homes will have solar panels in the next few years according to research carried out for OVO Energy.
Right to Buy scheme expansion set to benefit thousands
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
More housing association tenants will have an opportunity to buy their homes through the Government’s right to buy scheme, as a result of the Chancellor’s plans for a ‘large-scale’ pilot programme.
NAEA: Top tips for selling your home this winter
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
By following a few simple steps from National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), sellers can ensure their property looks and feels attractive to capture a buyer this winter.
UK needs to build 685 new homes a day by 2020 to meet targets
Posted on Thursday, December 1, 2016
The UK’s housing shortfall will rise by a further 318,632 by 2020 at the current rate of growth, Aldermore has warned.
Christmas and New Year Opening Hours
Posted on Monday, November 28, 2016
Our Christmas and New Year opening hours
Market Update
Posted on Monday, November 28, 2016
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the property market as 2016 ends and 2017 begins
Rightmove: House prices “resilient” as first time buyers feel the pressure
Posted on Thursday, November 24, 2016
House prices were described as “resilient” in the latest Rightmove House Price Index, which showed asking prices fell 1.1 per cent in the month to November, less than the seasonal average drop of 1 per cent.
RICS: More action needed on brownfield land
Posted on Thursday, November 24, 2016
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has urged the government to free up brownfield and unused land as well as speed up application approvals.
CML: Gross mortgage lending hits £20.6bn in October
Posted on Thursday, November 24, 2016
According to the latest data from CML, gross mortgage lending held steady in October and was an estimated £20.6 billion - closely matching September’s gross lending total of £20.5bn but 5% down on the £21.8bn this time last year.
Government on track for 1 million homes
Posted on Thursday, November 24, 2016
Newly released government figures have shown that 190,000 homes were added to the housing stock in England in the last financial year, up 11% on 2014-2015. Of these, 163,940 were new build homes, up 6%
Mortgage arrears remain at 20-year low
Posted on Saturday, November 12, 2016
The UK’s mortgage arrears rate remained at a 20-year low of 0.84% in the third quarter of 2016 according to Council of Mortgage Lenders data.
Buy to let landlords still looking to increase portfolios
Posted on Saturday, November 12, 2016
Nearly half (46%) of landlords with two or more properties expect to increase the size of their portfolio in the next few years, the Bank of Ireland’s UK Buy to Let Market Index has found.
RICS: How to winter proof your home
Posted on Saturday, November 12, 2016
With the cold weather now upon us , RICS is advising homeowners to check their properties to help stop the predicted harsh weather from taking its toll on their property, heating and maintenance bills.
Going green helps boost the household budget
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
As well as benefitting the environment, ‘going green’ can also help homeowners make significant savings
NAEA: Homebuyer confidence hits pre-Brexit levels
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
According to the latest report from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), during September, demand for housing rose by 16% as confidence among the UK's homebuyers eclipsed post-Brexit worries about the effect it would have on the market.
ARLA Rental housing supply at 18 month high
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
According to new data from the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), the number of rental properties managed per letting agent branch is at the highest levels seen in 18 months.
Cats or Dogs: Which are more accident prone at home?
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
We are a nation of animal lovers. We love our pets dearly, especially cats and dogs. They offer companionship and comfort to millions throughout the UK and are treated like members of our own family. So which ones would cause the most damage to your home?
Business as usual for landlords post Brexit
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
A new survey conducted by Simple Landlords Insurance has found that despite the recent raft of political changes, it's business as usual for the majority of UK landlords.
Equity release: A £2bn market in 2016
Posted on Monday, November 7, 2016
The Equity Release market could break the £2bn barrier for the first time in 2016 after achieving another strong quarter, Equity Release Council data shows.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, October 28, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market and their prognosis for the weeks ahead
Proximity to family or work - where would first time buyers rather live?
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
New research by Principality Building Society released today has found that first time buyers are prepared to forget the family and would rather live nearer the office.
Top tips for winter home security
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Top tips for winter home security
Waiting on the death of a loved on to get on housing ladder
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
According to a new survey of millenial ‘wannabe homeowners’ by money.co.uk, 16% of those polled are waiting for the death of a loved one before they take their first step onto the property ladder.
RICS: Homebuyers return to market as Brexit nerves ease
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Buyer demand has increased for the first time in seven months as Brexit “jitters” have started to ease, the latest survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has found.
Government plans minimum room size for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Bedrooms in HMOs will have to meet a minimum room size of at least 70 square feet for one person or 110 for two under proposals from the government.
Cost of mortgages continues to fall
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
The cost of mortgages has fallen once again, Mortgage Brain data shows.
Number of second steppers planning to move is increasing
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
The number of first time homeowners planning to take their second step on the property ladder is on the way up, according to a new survey from Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks.
80% of people aspire to be home owners within 10 years
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Figures published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) as part of a long-running series on attitudes to housing tenure confirms homeownership remains firmly in place as the nation’s overwhelming preference.
Top tips to achieve an autumn transaction
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
Now that the summer season is over and people are settling back in after vacations, if you are contemplating or trying to sell or let a property it's a good time to take stock of the situation and plan the way forward.
Top tips: How to get the show home look
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
David Wilson Homes have given their top tips on current trends in interior design and how you can steal the show home look.
Parents becoming landlords to help children get on property ladder
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
A growing number of parents are renting properties to their children or considering doing so in the future, as younger generations continue to struggle to take their first step onto the property ladder.
English cities dominate European house price growth
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
House price growth in four English cities is among the highest in the whole of Europe, Knight Frank’s Global Residential Cities Index shows.
Government unveils £3bn housebuilders fund
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
The government wants to kick-start housebuilding with a £3bn housebuilders fund to support SMEs, custom builders and developers, Communities Secretary Sajid Javid has announced.
Over 55s hold more wealth than Italy’s annual GDP
Posted on Sunday, October 16, 2016
The UK’s over 55 homeowners are sitting on more property wealth than the annual GDP of Italy, research from Age Partnership shows.
ARLA: Rental demand remains high
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
ARLA: Rental demand remains high
Half of first time buyers plan to buy with a partner
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Half (48%) of potential first-time buyers plan to apply for a mortgage with a partner and just a quarter (25%) want to go it alone, Aldermore research shows.
Younger first-time buyers use Help to Buy
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
The median age of first-time buyers using the Help to Buy scheme is lower than the open market, quarterly statistics published by The Treasury show.
Government ends Help to Buy: mortgage guarantee scheme
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
The government has confirmed the Help to Buy: mortgage guarantee scheme will finish at the end of 2016.
HMRC: £1m+ property sales generating 50% of stamp duty revenue
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Properties worth more than £1m generated 50% of stamp duty land tax revenues in 2015-16, figures published by HMRC reveal.
Safety and green spaces are top priorities for homeowners
Posted on Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Homeowners choose personal and household safety (83%), having good neighbours (68%) and green spaces (62%) as the three most important factors when buying a house.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, September 26, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Rightmove: Reasons to be optimistic about buy to let
Posted on Monday, September 26, 2016
It has been 12 weeks since the Brexit vote and the buy to let market has many reasons to be optimistic.
Report shows saving for deposit three times more important than pension
Posted on Monday, September 26, 2016
The latest research for the Nottingham Building Society has found that for the under 35s, saving a deposit is top priority for 24% of under-35s compared with just 8% who target pensions.
£1 trillion of pensioner property wealth
Posted on Monday, September 26, 2016
The long-term story as highlighted by our research is that property has performed very well with average over-65s making more than £9,000 a year during a period of record low interest rates and stock market volatility
Buy to let mortgage costs down by as much as 8%
Posted on Friday, September 23, 2016
Many buy to let landlords are benefitting from the continuing reductions of mortgage costs, with lenders across the board shaving percentage points off their best deals in an effort to attract greater business from those buying or re-mortgaging property, including buy to let landlords.
TDS: Private rental sector continues to grow
Posted on Friday, September 23, 2016
There has been a significant increase in the amount of tenancy deposits taken on assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales by landlords, reflecting the growth in popularity of buy-to-let property as an attractive investment, it has been claimed.
Majority of small and medium sized builders unaffected by Brexit
Posted on Friday, September 23, 2016
Only 31% of SME builders have seen significant changes to business as a result of the EU referendum, according to research carried out by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
The price of being a first time buyer nears £200,000 mark
Posted on Friday, September 23, 2016
First-time buyer asking prices are nearing the £200,000 mark after rising by 10.5% annually and 3.3% on a monthly basis.
More new homes being built than being reported
Posted on Friday, September 23, 2016
The government’s most publicised measure of house building excludes around a fifth of all new build completions every year, a new report has revealed.
Quarter of parents buy with school catchment area in mind
Posted on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
A quarter (26%) of parents are moving house with a school catchment area in mind, research from Santander Mortgages has found.
Brexit: Homebuyers unperturbed
Posted on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Most homebuyers aren’t perturbed by the impact of the Brexit vote, a Virgin Money poll has indicated.
Government abandons immediate plans to privatise Land Registry
Posted on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
A move to privatise the Land Registry has been shelved by the government.
Annual house price growth cools
Posted on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
On the ground we are not finding a huge change in prices, just a determination for buyers and sellers to get on with moving but at more realistic price levels
One in three pensioners using property wealth for dream holidays
Posted on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Retired homeowners are turning property wealth into dream holidays with average spending on trips abroad hitting £6,785, analysis from leading over 55s retirement specialist Key Retirement found.
Decoration or procrastination?
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
82% of Brits admit to putting off essential jobs around the house, procrastinating for an average of nearly four weeks, according to research by residential property manager FirstPort.
Conveyancing Association to keep up with Leasehold campaign
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
The Conveyancing Association has confirmed it will continue unabated with its campaign to reform and amend the leasehold transaction process, despite recent developments.
Most Brits 'would go over budget' for the right home
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
Almost 78% of UK adults - 43 million - are willing to go over budget to find a home which meets all their priorities, according to research conducted on behalf of Ocean Finance.
Buy-to-let market 'will remain robust'
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
Accord Buy to Let has announced plans to expand into the consumer buy-to-let and first-time landlord markets over the next few months.
27% of parents would consider funding others onto property ladder
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
Over a quarter of parents say they would consider funding other people’s children onto the property ladder in exchange for a return on their investment.
ARLA: Rental market in good shape
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
While many are predicting doom in the property market, ARLA’s July private rental sector report found that the number of rental properties on letting agents’ books in July was the highest so far this year at 184.
Poor credit scores put young home seekers at risk
Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2016
Millions of young adults are risk being unable to get a mortgage by damaging their credit rating before they turn 25, according to Amigo research.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
New homes numbers rise
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
The number of homes built in the year to June has increased by 6% to 139,030, the latest Government figures reveal.
British Bankers Association: Brexit not hitting mortgage borrowing
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
Brexit has not hit mortgage borrowing demand, according to figures from the British Bankers’ Association.
CML: Arrears at lowest level since record began
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
Mortgage arrears could plummet to lows not seen since 1982, according to new data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
Rental prices increase by 2.4% annually
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
According to the latest figures from the ONS, private rental prices paid by tenants in Great Britain rose by 2.4% in the 12 months to July 2016, unchanged compared with the year to June 2016.
Smaller house builders are key to hitting new homes target
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2016
The Federation of Master Builders has backed a new report from homeless charity Shelter which calls on the Government to put SMEs at the centre of its house building strategy.
Pensioners gift over £39,350 of property wealth to family
Posted on Saturday, August 20, 2016
Over one in five retired homeowners access equity in their properties to treat children and grandchildren.
One in four planning applications is processed late
Posted on Saturday, August 20, 2016
Nearly a quarter of a million applications have not been processed on time for six years, according to an investigation by The Times.
Brexit has not changed lending confidence
Posted on Saturday, August 20, 2016
Confidence is reflected in the proportion of investors looking to buy an additional buy-to-let property over the next year.
Turn your garden into an outdoor living room
Posted on Saturday, August 13, 2016
Do you dream about expanding your living space? Having more room to relax, enjoy family activities or simply rejuvenate creates a comfortable home for every member of the family.
CML: First time buyer lending up 25%
Posted on Saturday, August 13, 2016
First-time buyers are continuing to drive house purchase lending, outperforming home movers for the third month running
Homeowners could save £1800 in interest and reduce mortgage term by a year
Posted on Saturday, August 13, 2016
The latest research from comparethemarket.com has revealed that UK mortgage holders could see significant savings and wipe years off their mortgage term by making regular overpayments.
Private Rental Sector: Demand continues to outstrip supply
Posted on Saturday, August 13, 2016
According to the latest report from Homelet, rents across the UK continued to rise during July, building on the consistent increases seen during the first half of the year. However, despite these increases, the rate of rental growth is still slowing as we enter the second half of the year.
Top tips on staging your home to ensure a faster sale
Posted on Saturday, August 6, 2016
Staging is preparing your home to be seen at its best by potential buyers. It can help your property sell faster, and it can add thousands of pounds to your property’s value. If you’re planning to sell your home, then ‘staging’ it can give the process a real boost.
Bank of mum and dad see 25% rise in deposit lending
Posted on Saturday, August 6, 2016
According to the latest findings from conveyancing specialists at Fidler & Pepper Solicitors, more and more people are relying on the bank of mum and dad to help them get on the property ladder.
Home ownership at lowest level for 30 years
Posted on Saturday, August 6, 2016
English home ownership has fallen to its lowest level in 30 years with Greater Manchester, South and West Yorkshire and the West Midlands all experiencing falls, according to Resolution Foundation analysis.
Rental yields remain strong despite Brexit
Posted on Saturday, August 6, 2016
Rental incomes in the first six months of 2016 were 1.5% higher than in the same period last year, according to figures by BM solutions.
Length of tenancies at a five year high
Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2016
A new report from Imfuna has found that the average length of tenancies in the UK has increased by 300% over the last two years, from 16 months in 2014 to four years in 2016.
Majority of over 55s have no intention to downsize
Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2016
A recent survey conducted by My Home Move has revealed that 58% of over 55s have no intention to downsize in the near future, claiming that they are hindered by moving costs and lack of the ‘right kind of properties’ and despite industry calls for more family-sized properties to come onto market.
Six million over-45 homeowners see property as key to retirement income
Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2016
Some 46% see property wealth as a key part of retirement income planning, with 69% owning a home worth more than their pensions, savings and investments.
Market Update August 2016
Posted on Thursday, July 28, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
UK landlords remain bullish following Brexit
Posted on Monday, July 18, 2016
BDRC Continental ran a special post referendum survey to take the pulse of Britain’s private landlords in the immediate aftermath of the UK’s decision to leave the EU and found that despite two thirds of UK landlords feeling uncertain or worried about a negative impact on the Private Rental Sector, they remain bullish about their own fate.
Retired households to dominate household growth in next twenty years
Posted on Monday, July 18, 2016
The over-65s will dominate household growth over the next two decades, according to projections from the Office for National Statistics.
CML: First-time buyers drive May activity
Posted on Monday, July 18, 2016
First-time buyer lending increased by 23% year-on-year and 10% from the month before to reach £4.3bn in May 2016, figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders have revealed.
How old will you be before you buy your 'forever home'?
Posted on Monday, July 18, 2016
New research from first direct finds our homes may no longer be our castles, but they must come with a large kitchen, a private garden, and easy access to a supermarket.
UK house building falls short of targets by 1,199,180 since 2004
Posted on Monday, July 18, 2016
The shortfall in housing supply in England has hit new levels as the government continues to miss its building targets
Changes in landlord behaviour sees growth of Limited Company buy to let investment
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2016
Lending to buy to let investors borrowing via limited companies grew in the first half of the year according to the results of the H1 2016 Limited Company Buy to Let Index. The number of lenders and products available to limited company borrowers also increased.
Post Brexit: Housing remains a top priority for the government
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2016
Communities secretary Greg Clark and housing minister Brandon Lewis have said that house building will remain a top priority for the government despite uncertainty following the Brexit.
Seven in ten buyers would consider 10-year fix rate mortgage
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2016
Seven in ten house-hunters (72%) would consider fixing their mortgage for 10-years as a way of providing certainty on financial outgoings, according to new research from HSBC.
First time buyer interest payments drop by an average of £1,300
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2016
Average interest payments for a first-time buyer mortgage over two years fell from £11,327 in Q1 2015 to £10,019 in Q1 2016 – a saving of £1,308 – according to research from AmTrust International, Mortgage and Special Risks.
House price growth slows but remains strong
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2016
Annual house price growth slowed to 8.4% in June, the lowest rate in a year, the Halifax House Price Index.
New home planning consents at eight year high
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
The number of planning consents granted for new homes in quarter one of 2016 remained high, HBF and Glenigan’s latest Housing Pipeline report shows
Second steppers lack of savings an issue when upsizing
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
The latest data to come from uSwitch has found that British homeowners have been lulled into a false sense of security by rising house prices, with many of them facing a significant shortfall in funds when they move.
Future changes that landlords face post stamp duty tax increase
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
Increased SDLT costs on the purchase of additional residential properties is not the only change in store for residential property investors.
Buy to let mortgage sales increase
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
Combined, residential and buy-to-let sales for the intermediated market totalled £6.4bn
Eviction: Supreme Court ruling on Human Rights
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
Private landlords need not fear that tenants they want to evict can invoke breach of their 'Human Rights' when they are being evicted, following a ruling by the Supreme Court, specialist property lawyer Kary Withers of Clarke Willmott LLP has reported
Families now the most common group in the private rental sector
Posted on Monday, July 4, 2016
Contrary to popular perception, there’s growing evidence that renting is no obstacle to putting down roots and calling somewhere home
Market Update – July 2016
Posted on Monday, June 27, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market and their prognosis following the Euro referendum vote.
RSPCA: Top Tips for moving home with pets
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
The RSPCA provide pet owners with advice on making moving home as stress-free as possible for their animals.
Retired renter numbers increase by 200,000 in last four years
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
According to a survey of private renters, the number of people living in private rented accommodation in retirement has soared by more than 200,000 in the last four years.
What people look for in a kitchen when buying property
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
People still regard the kitchen as one of the most important rooms in the house when it comes to buying a property
CML: Purchase lending fell in April
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
Buy-to-let mortgage lending fell by 65% in April after the 3% stamp duty surcharge came into force, Council of Mortgage Lenders figures show.
Survey shows tenant demand and satisfaction remain high
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
Surveys of more than 1,800 Private Rented Sector landlords and tenants, show demand for rental properties in the UK is increasing and there is a high degree of tenant satisfaction.
Over a third of investors plan to expand student property portfolios
Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2016
Since 2011, student accommodation has outperformed all other traditional property assets and has been the strongest growing investment property market in the UK.
Raising a deposit remains the biggest hurdle for first time buyers
Posted on Monday, June 6, 2016
According to new research from Nottingham Building Society, nearly two out of three first-time buyers apply for a mortgage as a couple, with just 18% of those saying they could afford to buy on their own.
Landlords looking to exceed tenant expectations
Posted on Monday, June 6, 2016
With increasing competition to attract the best tenants, more landlords are now going out of their way to provide an enhanced tenant experience and improve the quality of rental stock on offer.
Government intervention in private rental sector causing low landlord confidence
Posted on Monday, June 6, 2016
"Increased stamp duty, as well as reduced levels of income tax relief for landlords due to come into force next April, have undoubtedly impacted landlord sentiment."
Spending on DIY at seven year high
Posted on Monday, June 6, 2016
Around £3.65 is spent on DIY tools and materials for every £1 spent on tradesmen, showing how important DIY is to UK households.
Greater London prices eclipse £600,000 in Q1
Posted on Monday, June 6, 2016
In the first quarter of 2016 prices rose by 7.9% from the previous quarter and transactions increased by 3.9% as buyers rushed to beat the 3% stamp duty surcharge coming into force on 1 April.
Market Update
Posted on Friday, May 27, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Private rental sector remains ‘fundamental part’ of housing market
Posted on Friday, May 27, 2016
With tenant demand continuing to rise, the private rented sector (PRS) will remain a “fundamental part” of the UK’s housing market moving forward, according to a leading buy-to-let specialist
Lending drops in April but is still higher than a year ago
Posted on Friday, May 27, 2016
Mortgage lending dropped by a fifth in April after the March stampede to get deals done before the stamp duty changes came into force, BBA figures have found.
NAEA: Housing demand falls away after March boom
Posted on Friday, May 27, 2016
Housing demand dropped to a 2-year low after the stamp duty changes came into force on 1 April, the National Association of Estate Agents April Housing Market report has revealed.
Renters suffer from an inability to plan long-term
Posted on Monday, May 23, 2016
Financial wellness is “drastically split” between homeowners and non-homeowners with renters suffering due to a lack of assets and an inability to plan long-term effectively.
CML: Repossessions and arrears continue to fall
Posted on Monday, May 23, 2016
According to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), repossessions in Q1 this year fell to 2,100 (1,500 home-owner, 600 buy-to-let), meaning that the repossession rate is the lowest on record.
Over 7 million adults moved back home after a break up
Posted on Monday, May 23, 2016
Research from Churchill Home Insurance has revealed that over 7m UK adults have been forced to move back home with their parents following a break up, divorce or separation.
Landlords – top tips on how to keep your tenants
Posted on Monday, May 23, 2016
Research by landlord insurance provider, Direct Line for Business, has found that on average, British renters spend an average of 18 months in a rented property before moving on.
What barriers are keeping first-time buyers off the property ladder?
Posted on Monday, May 16, 2016
A new survey of 10,000 people in the UK has revealed the key reasons that first time buyers are struggling to get a foot on the UK property ladder.
CML: Stamp duty increase led to 180% rise in buy to let purchases
Posted on Monday, May 16, 2016
According to the Council for Mortgage Lenders (CML), the fluctuation in transactions as a result of the new stamp duty rate "appears to have been larger than anything we've seen before that's associated with a tax change".
Buy to let mortgage valuations slump 40% in wake of stamp duty changes
Posted on Monday, May 16, 2016
According to data from Landmark Quest, there has been a 40% decline in the number of Buy-to-Let mortgage valuation instructions in April 2016 when compared to February 2016. Between March and April alone, the figures dropped by a significant 30.6%.
Landlords relax as rents rise after tax increase
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
New data from HomeLet has revealed that fears over higher Stamp Duty charges on purchasing BTL rental property might weaken the market have so far proved unfounded.
Tenant demand remains strong despite drop in landlord confidence
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
Almost four in 10 landlords (39%) have seen an increase in tenant demand over the last three months, despite lower confidence in short-term expectations, according to the latest quarterly index from BM Solutions.
What are the top property turn-offs for buyers?
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
According to the latest research from Gocompare.com Mortgages, dodgy home repairs, tiny rooms and poor lighting are just some of the things that would send a prospective buyer running for the hills - but what is the biggest turn off?
What are the top ten features on British garden wish lists?
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
Research has revealed traditional garden features have fallen out of favour, with more lavish features such as hot tubs, swimming pools and tennis courts taking prime position on garden wish lists.
Planning consents at highest levels for eight years
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
According to the latest housing pipeline report from HBF and Glenigan, initial planning permission for 255,032 new homes was granted in England in 2015 - up 57% from a low point of 162,204 in 2009.
Property wealth exceeds pension savings for over 55s
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
Property wealth is worth more than the total pension savings for nearly six out of 10 over-55s, research from high net worth adviser Bower Private Clients reveals.
Bank of Mum and Dad is now a top ten lender
Posted on Saturday, May 7, 2016
The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ will contribute to 25% of all UK mortgage purchases this year, making them a ‘top ten’ lender.
House construction growth rate slows
Posted on Tuesday, April 26, 2016
House building continued to slow in Q1 with only 36% more of those working in residential construction reporting a rise in growth rather than a fall over the first quarter of 2016.
Market Update
Posted on Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their update on the current property market
NAEA: Housing supply increasing
Posted on Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Sales to first-time buyers increased by 4% in March – and more than a third (36%) of estate agents expected sales to first-time buyers to increase further due to less competition for properties.
How well do you know your neighbours?
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
According to a report from TSB, people in Britain are actually friendlier than you might think.
Buy to let mortgage product numbers on the rise
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
According to Mortgages for Business, the number of buy to let mortgage products available increased from 963 in Q4 2015 to 1,105 in Q1 2016.
ONS: House prices continue upward trend
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that UK house prices climbed on average across the UK by 7.6% in the year to February 2016, dipping slightly from 7.9% in the year to January 2016.
Is buy to let lending getting tougher?
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
After the introduction of new buy to let tax rules, the Bank of England’s tightening up of mortgage lending criteria may also impact on existing and potential new landlords.
NAEA: Improvement tips to add value to your home
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
April is National Home Improvement Month and the NAEA has provided some advice on how property owners can improve their home to increase its value.
Rightmove: Buy-to-let rush has caused chain reaction
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
In its latest house price index, Rightmove says that the rush to beat the 3% stamp duty surcharge has resulted in a ‘chain reaction’ of higher demand in higher price brackets.
How much have house prices risen since the last Euro referendum?
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
Since the 1975 in-out referendum, where Britain decided to remain in Europe, the average price of property has outperformed shares and eclipsed the growth in value of gold. In fact, only 30 out of 164 quarters (18%) since Q2 1975 have seen negative house price growth.
Public know little about Help to Buy ISAs
Posted on Friday, April 22, 2016
Research from Precise Mortgages shows that nearly half of the public admit to knowing very little about the government’s Help to Buy ISA while 14% have never even heard of it.
Buy to let market has “strong future”, say landlords
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
Research by Aldermore shows over half the UK’s buy-to-let landlords (52%) expect changes to stamp duty and buy-to-let mortgage tax relief to have no real impact on them.
Tenant’s right to request energy improvements comes into force
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
From 1st April 2016, tenants have the right to request consent from their landlords to make energy-saving improvements for the properties they rent.
The top ten home improvement wish list
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
According to a new report from Gocompare.com Money, 14% of homeowners are considering making improvements to their home.
Landlords move towards limited companies
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
A survey of nearly 1,400 private rented sector landlords undertaken by BDRC Continental on behalf of Paragon Mortgages has revealed that increasing numbers are considering moving their property investments into limited company vehicles.
Government housebuilding targets not being met
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
The Government’s target of building 1 million new homes over this parliament is unlikely to be met. Less than 460,000 homes were built between 2011 and 2014, according to figures from the National Housing Federation, despite forecasts that 974,000 new homes were needed.
Study says new home building may make owning a home less affordable
Posted on Saturday, April 9, 2016
Increasing the supply of new-build properties may make owning a home in the UK less affordable, research by Nottingham Trent University claims.
Market Update April 2016
Posted on Sunday, March 27, 2016
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market and the prognosis for the weeks ahead
Say goodbye DIY, hello DFY!
Posted on Sunday, March 27, 2016
A survey of 2,000 adults by UK based retirement housebuilder, McCarthy & Stone, shows few people take on day to day jobs and chores themselves and are embracing the idea of 'DFY' - jobs Done For You.
HMOs: The top property investment for 2016?
Posted on Sunday, March 27, 2016
Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) are likely to be the most popular property type for property investors this year, research from Shawbrook has claimed.
Homes can be dangerous: Making yours a safer place
Posted on Sunday, March 27, 2016
Research by Confused.com reveals that in 2015, 750,000 under-5s attended A&E as a result of accidents in the home.
The top 20 things that buyers look for in a home
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2016
According to a new survey from Gocompare.com Mortgages, house-hunters opt for a good, reliable broadband signal over highly-rated schools; off-road parking over a garage and a living room big enough for a large flat screen telly over period features.
Planning permissions reach eight year high
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2016
Planning permissions reached an eight year high of 253,000 in 2015 according to figures published by the Department for Communities and Local Government.
30% year on year increase in gross mortgage lending
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2016
February mortgage lending was 30% higher than the same month last year on a gross basis, Council of Mortgage Lenders figures show.
Number of single tenants falling in the private rental sector
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2016
The number of tenancies signed by a single tenant has fallen, according to the latest HomeLet Rental Index.
90% of tenants consider their rented property to be home
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
A survey of more than 800 Private Rented Sector (PRS) tenants undertaken by BDRC Continental on behalf of Paragon Mortgages found high levels of satisfaction with rented accommodation with 90% of those surveyed saying they consider their rented property to be their home.
Will EU block accidental landlords from access to cheaper mortgages
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
A little-known piece of EU legislation could see so-called accidental landlords refused cheaper mortgages - because they can't afford them.
Are Housebuilders deliberately restricting supply?
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
It has been suggested that housebuilders are intentionally ‘holding back’ the construction of new homes to keep property prices artificially high in order to boost profits.
Nearly 20% of tenants don’t expect full deposit back
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
Nearly 20% of tenants say that when they hand over their deposit cheque, they never expect to see all the money again. Meanwhile the same proportion of landlords say the deposit they took didn’t full cover damage by tenants.
Help to Buy: 150,000 completions
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
More than 150,000 people have bought houses under the Help to Buy scheme, according to the Government.
Landlords told they should prepare for longer tenancies
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
According to the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC), landlords and property managers must now prepare for long-term tenancies as data shows the average private tenancy length is now four years, up from three and a half years in the previous survey.
'Business as usual' despite tax changes for investors
Posted on Saturday, March 12, 2016
A new survey of over 170 property investors shows that 56% of Shawbrook clients are planning to purchase a buy to let property within the next year.
Number of mortgage products available at an 8 year high
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
The latest report from Mortgage Advice Bureau has found that the number of mortgage products available on the market hit 17,132 in January - the highest number seen since March 2008 (23,802).
Up 23%: House building starts highest for seven years
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
The number of house builds started in Q4 of 2015 was 23% higher than in 2014 according to new figures released by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
NAEA: Supply of housing at lowest level in 14 years
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
The supply of housing has fallen to its lowest level in 14 years, the National Association of Estate Agents January Housing Market report has found.
First time buyer income gap at five year high
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
According to the latest research by mortgage insurer, Genworth, the first time buyer income gap between average incomes and the incomes of buyers taking their first step onto the housing ladder has reached a post-recession high.
93% of councils say starter home plans will not address affordable housing need
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
A new online survey, which was sent to Council Leaders, Heads of Planning, Heads of Housing and Heads of Finance in local authorities across England in February 2016, has revealed that just 7% of councils believe that Starter Homes will address the need for affordable housing.
Prudential: Buy to let tax changes not deterring pension pot investors
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
Changes introduced to the tax and stamp duty levied on buy to let income and property appears not to have deterred older investors from deciding to put money into the lettings sector.
Should the buyers of energy-inefficient homes pay more Stamp Duty?
Posted on Saturday, March 5, 2016
The suggestion, which could see purchasers of energy inefficient home paying up to £2,500 more Stamp Duty, has come from think tank Policy Exchange.
Market Update
Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
Is there really a premium for South facing property?
Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2016
A new study reveals that the benefits of a south facing garden are not reflected in the asking price.
Buy to let purchasers outnumbered three to one by first time buyers
Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2016
There were 311,700 mortgages issued to first time buyers last year. While the figure was the same as 2014, the amount borrowed – £46.7bn – was the highest since 2007.
Why the private rental sector is dominated by young tenants
Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2016
The home ownership ladder is disappearing for most young working households on modest incomes who are obliged to rent for the indefinite future, claims an independent think tank.
MPs want more energy information provided to tenants
Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2016
MPs and members of the House of Lords want private sector tenants to be given clearer up-front information on the cost of all utility bills before signing a tenancy agreement, as well as about their right to change energy suppliers
First time buyers spend £52,900 on rent before buying
Posted on Saturday, February 13, 2016
First time buyers typically spend £52,900 on rent before getting on the housing ladder, the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) Cost of Renting report claims.
Over a third of private tenants are not saving to buy
Posted on Saturday, February 13, 2016
A report appears to show that well over a third of British tenants are not saving to buy.
CML: Lowest mortgage arrears in a decade
Posted on Saturday, February 13, 2016
2015 saw the lowest arrears rates in more than a decade, figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders show.
Love thy neighbour (it seems not always!)
Posted on Saturday, February 13, 2016
According to the latest research, for 18 million Brits, their neighbours have become a nuisance.
Halifax: Average house prices now at over £212,000
Posted on Friday, February 5, 2016
Average house prices in January stood at £212,430 say the Halifax.
A Help to Buy ISA is opened every 30 seconds
Posted on Friday, February 5, 2016
Potential first-time buyers have opened a Help to Buy ISA account every 30 seconds since the scheme was launched on 1 December 2015.
UK housebuilding up 7% year on year but still way behind required levels
Posted on Friday, February 5, 2016
The number of new homes registered to be built in the UK increased by 7% year on year in 2015, hitting an eight year high of over 156,000 according to the National House Building Council (NHBC).
Limited Company Buy to Let transactions rise again in January
Posted on Friday, February 5, 2016
Applications made by Limited Companies accounted for 43% of all buy-to-let transactions in January, analysis from broker Mortgages for Business has revealed, up from 38% in December 2014.
How far will people move to get on the property ladder?
Posted on Tuesday, February 2, 2016
A new report has revealed that almost 13m people plan to move over 20 miles in order to be able to afford to buy their first home
House price confidence remains strong
Posted on Tuesday, February 2, 2016
The latest quarterly Halifax Housing Market Confidence Tracker has revealed that confidence in the UK housing market remains strong despite a backdrop of cooling confidence in the wider economy.
CML: Stamp duty reforms urged
Posted on Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Responding to the HM Treasury consultation on the 3% surcharge on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) proposals for second properties, the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) urges reform of the implementation plans, to mitigate potentially negative impacts on the housing market as a whole.
BoE: Mortgage approvals up 21% year on year
Posted on Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Mortgage approvals rose 21.2% year on year in December, from 102,910 to 124,803, according to Bank of England (BoE) figures.
ARLA: Dedicated Housing Court needed to cover all lettings sector legal disputes
Posted on Monday, January 25, 2016
ARLA (The Association of Residential Letting Agents) wants a dedicated court or tribunal to deal with all property and housing related legal disputes.
Experian: 1.7 million tenants frustrated in their home buying plans
Posted on Monday, January 25, 2016
According to Experian, one in three private tenants have put their plans to buy on hold and have remained in rented accommodation longer than planned.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 25, 2016
Chris Harper & Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
CML: 2015 lending reached £220.3bn
Posted on Monday, January 25, 2016
Mortgage lending reached an estimated £220.3bn in 2015 – an 8% increase on 2014’s total of £203.3bn, Council of Mortgage Lenders figures show
26% of first-time buyers take 35 year mortgage terms
Posted on Monday, January 18, 2016
In 2007 the proportion taking out a thirty five year term was 16%, yet by 2015 that figure grew to 26% according to researc h from the Halifax.
CML: “slow but steady” growth
Posted on Monday, January 18, 2016
The Director General of the Council for Mortgage Lenders (CML) Paul Smee has forecast “slow but steady upward trajectory over the next two years” after the trade body released its lending data for November.
2015: Over 300,000 first time buyers for second year in succession
Posted on Monday, January 18, 2016
The Halifax has revealed that during 2015, first-time-buyer numbers hit 310,000.
Stress: Where does buying or selling a property rate?
Posted on Monday, January 11, 2016
Research from Which? Mortgage Advisers reveals that buying and selling property is one of the most stressful life experiences - more so than having a child and second only to going through a divorce. But which was considered worse?
Halifax: Property prices rise 9.5% year-on-year
Posted on Monday, January 11, 2016
UK property prices in the fourth quarter of 2015 were 9.5% higher than the same period in 2014, according to the Halifax.
Government to directly commission 13,000 new homes
Posted on Monday, January 11, 2016
The Government has kick-started its affordable homes programme by announcing the fast-track building of thousands of houses on publicly-owned land.
ARLA: rents to increase in 2016
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has said that rents will rise in the New Year due to legislation changes affecting landlo
AMI: Mortgage rates to rise early in 2016
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
Mortgage rates are likely to rise in the first quarter of 2016 as lenders look to control their lending before the Mortgage Credit Directive comes into force in March, the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries predicts.
First-time buyers reliant on family help
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
More than half (52%) of first-time buyers rely on their families to financially assist them in buying their first home, research from Which? Mortgage Advisers says.
RICS: Rents up 3% in 2016 with forecast of more by 2020
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is predicting that rents are likely to increase even faster than house prices in the next five years
RICS: House prices to increase by 6% in 2016
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
House prices in the UK will see an average increase of 6% over the course of next year, the RICS housing forecast for 2016 is predicting
Zoopla: 600,000 Britons are now property millionaires
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
More than 600,000 Britons are now property millionaires with their home values having eclipsed the £1m mark
Santander: Buying is cheaper than renting across the UK
Posted on Monday, January 4, 2016
A report from Santander says that potential first-time buyers would have lower monthly outgoings if they bought a property than they do renting
Christmas & New Year opening hours
Posted on Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Christmas & New Year opening hours
Market Update
Posted on Monday, December 21, 2015
The start of a New Year is always an opportunity to reflect on the year that has just passed and look forward to the one that is about to begin.
A third of the UK has problems with neighbours
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
18 million residents, or a third of the UK’s adult population, have faced disputes with their neighbour over the past 12 months, and half of those have been left feeling stressed or depressed
130,000 Help to buy completions to date
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
The Help to Buy Equity Loan and Mortgage Guarantee schemes have assisted 130,000 mortgages since their launch in 2013.
Wear and Tear tax allowance to be changed after consultation
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
HM Revenue and Customs has published the responses it received to its 12 week consultation on changing the Wear and Tear Allowance for buy to let landlords.
Rents are slowing across the UK
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
The latest HomeLet Rental Index reveals that rents on new tenancies agreed over the three months to November fell in most areas of the country.
Do small housebuilders hold keys to home ownership?
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
Owning a home is likely to be on many peoples New Year wish list. With the Government’s commitment to deliver thousands of new homes, there are many doors opening for first time buyers, as well as opportunities for the house building industry.
More 95% loan to value mortgages in 2016
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
New lenders will enter the 95% loan to value market in 2016, Accord’s National Intermediary Sales Manager David Robinson has foretold
Getting on the home ownership ladder getting easier
Posted on Monday, December 14, 2015
Barriers to getting on the housing ladder fell from September to December 2015 with the announcement of The Building Societies Association’s Property Tracker which found that 52% saw raising a deposit as the biggest barrier, down from 59% in September.
Tenant demand continues to grow
Posted on Friday, December 11, 2015
Paragon Mortgages report that tenant demand has continued to grow across the country in quarter three of 2015.
Britons quick to fall in love with property
Posted on Friday, December 11, 2015
A survey by My Home Move, has discovered that we are a nation of decisive homebuyers who are quick to fall in love with a home and act fast to buy it.
Average deposits rising
Posted on Friday, December 11, 2015
Mortgage Advice Bureau say that average deposits rose in nine out of eleven regions in October. As a result, the average purchase deposit reached £71,301: a monthly increase of 0.9% and annual rise of 3.5%.
Stamp duty hike may hit new-build volumes warns Berkeley Homes
Posted on Friday, December 11, 2015
The chairman of Berkeley Homes is warning that the Government’s 3% stamp duty increase for buy to let properties and second homes risks damaging the ability of housebuilders to construct new homes.
63% of those eligible intend to take advantage of Help to Buy ISAs
Posted on Friday, December 4, 2015
With the Government’s Help to Buy ISAs now launched, new insight from MoneySuperMarket reveals 63% of prospective homeowners plan to take advantage of these new tax free accounts to help get them on the housing ladder.
2014 stamp duty change saves buyers £1.9bn
Posted on Friday, December 4, 2015
UK homebuyers have saved £1.9bn in stamp duty since it was reformed from a slab to progressive structure in December 2014, My Home Move data has revealed.
£4,600 will be the average cost of raising buy to let stamp duty
Posted on Friday, December 4, 2015
Buy to let landlords would have to pay an extra £4,565 per property purchase in the first three quarters of 2015 if the Chancellor’s 3% stamp duty rise was already in effect, Kensington analysis has revealed.
NAEA: First time buyer sales are at highest level in six years
Posted on Friday, December 4, 2015
First-time buyer sales hit a 6-year high in October to account for nearly a third (31%) of all sales, according to the National Association of Estate Agents’ October Housing Market Report.
New housing starts recovering
Posted on Monday, November 23, 2015
Housing starts recovered in quarter three, reversing some of the drop in activity seen in the second quarter, official figures show.
CML: Gross mortgage lending hits a seven year high
Posted on Monday, November 23, 2015
Gross lending hit its highest level in over seven years in October, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders
TUC: Cost of housing blamed for increased commuting
Posted on Monday, November 23, 2015
The number of commuters spending more than two hours travelling to and from work has increased by 72% over the past 10 years - with high house prices the major factor.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, November 23, 2015
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the property market
Building societies to review mortgage age limits
Posted on Tuesday, November 17, 2015
The building society sector has committed to reviewing the maximum age limits for mortgage borrowers.
Rightmove say house price rises will continue next year
Posted on Tuesday, November 17, 2015
According to Rightmove, the average asking price of a property new to the market is now £292,572, down 1.3% from October but up 6.2% on a year ago
Value of UK housing stock doubles over past decade
Posted on Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Halifax has revealed that the value of the UK's private housing stock has risen by 53% over the past decade from c£3.3 trillion in 2005 to c£5.1 trillion in August 2015.
Digital homes add value
Posted on Tuesday, November 17, 2015
A Digital Homes Report by Barclays Mortgages reveals that almost a third of home owners surveyed online believe installing technology in their home will increase its value.
NAEA: Top tips to sell your home during the winter
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
The National Association of Estate Agents top tips for those looking to sell their property during winter are as follows:
CML: One in three homes are bought with cash
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
Approximately one in three homes are now bought with cash – the highest level for over 60 years.
Public expect house prices to rise
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
68% of Brits expected house prices to rise in the next 12 months in the third quarter of 2015, the Halifax Housing Market Confidence Tracker reveals.
Second steppers rely on the Bank of Mum and Dad
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
The Bank of Mum and Dad is no longer being relied upon solely by first-time buyers – as second steppers are depending on their parents to make the first move up the housing ladder.
Equity release: Pensioners cash in on property
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
Pensioners are boosting retirement incomes by an average £74,787 by cashing in on rising property prices, analysis from leading over-55s financial provider Key Retirement shows.
Landlords: Beware of winter void periods
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
Landlords should be wary of leaving their homes empty in the winter as the weather could lead to problems such as damp and mould, the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks has warned.
Over-55s wealth to double by 2035
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
The value of property owned by over-55s in England is set to double to almost £2.5 trillion by 2035, research from Age Partnership has revealed.
Government to toughen up on HMO rogue landlords
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
The government plans to extend and toughen up HMO licencing to tackle rogue landlords and overcrowded housing in 2016.
Restricting appeal of buy to let mortgages will push up rents, warn lenders
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
Measures which discourage investment in the private rented sector can only push up rents and harm tenants more than landlords, a report from the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association warns.
First-time buyers need £50,000 income to get on the property ladder
Posted on Monday, November 9, 2015
New research by Gocompare.com claims that first-time buyers need on average a minimum household income of £50,000 to purchase a house in the UK.
Office of National Statistics: UK rent rises 2.7%
Posted on Monday, November 2, 2015
The latest report from The Office for National Statistics on private housing rental prices has found that over the last 12 months up to September 2015, private rental prices paid by tenants in Great Britain have risen by 2.7%.
House prices up 3.9% says Nationwide Building Society
Posted on Monday, November 2, 2015
Number of new homes fell in quarter three although up during the year
Posted on Monday, November 2, 2015
Housebuilding registrations fell by 2% in Q3 2015 year on year despite the government’s pledge to boost housing supply, figures from the National House Building Council (NHBC) reveal.
Market Update
Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2015
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
George Osborne says tougher buy-to-let regulation coming
Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2015
The Chancellor, George Osborne, has said that the Bank of England was likely to receive the powers it had asked for to regulate the mortgages which small landlords use to buy properties.
Mortgage market breaks through the £20bn barrier in September
Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2015
Gross mortgage lending reached £20bn in September 2015 the Council of Mortgage Lenders has estimated.
Right to Rent to commence in February 2016
Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2015
The Government has announced that from 1 February 2016 all private landlords in England will have to check new tenants have the right to be in the UK before renting out their property.
Inquiry by MPs into rental energy efficiency
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
The All Party Parliamentary Group for the private rented sector has launched an inquiry into the energy efficiency of private rented housing.
UK pensioners more reliant on their homes than anywhere else in Europe
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
UK pensioners are more reliant on their homes than in any other European nation, a report from Dutch banking group ING has revealed.
The annual cost of home ownership to reach £15,300
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
The average annual cost of being a homeowner is set to reach £15,300 this year, Legal & General’s Home Truths research predicts.
HMRC generates over £50m of extra tax from private rental sector
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
A campaign targeting residential landlords has given HM Revenue and Customs an additional tax take of over £50 million.
Men are from Mars and women are from Venus when it comes to choosing a home
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
Women looking to buy a home are most concerned about the space within a property, while men’s decisions are governed by the home’s location, research from Santander reveals.
Government aim to generate more new homes by clamping down on slow planners
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2015
The government is telling councils to produce local plans for new homes in their area by 2017 – or Whitehall will ensure those plans are produced for them.
20% year on year increase in house purchase mortgage lending
Posted on Monday, October 12, 2015
New data from Chartered Surveyors e.surv has found that over the last twelve months, the number of house purchase mortgage approvals has reached a twenty-month high and risen by 19.8%.
RICS: Rents will rise 3.0% in 2016 as demand continues to outstrip supply
Posted on Monday, October 12, 2015
Average rents have risen for 10 months in a row according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors - and there's every sign that it will continue into 2016.
80% of tenants like their landlord
Posted on Monday, October 5, 2015
Research commissioned by Paragon Mortgages reveals positive attitudes among tenants towards private renting.
First time buyer house prices outpace rest of market
Posted on Monday, October 5, 2015
UK property prices have risen 7.3% annually to reach an average of £219,315
Over 15,000 mortgage products to choose from!
Posted on Monday, October 5, 2015
According to new data released by Mortgage Advice Bureau, the total number of mortgage products has passed 15,000 for the first time since the recession.
Volumes of property transactions hit (seasonally adjusted) summer high
Posted on Monday, October 5, 2015
Residential property sales in the UK hit an 18-month high in August, following a 3.1 per cent month-on-month rise, the latest figures published by HMRC have revealed.
Homeowners more optimistic about the UK economy than renters
Posted on Monday, October 5, 2015
Homeowners are more confident in the state of the UK economy and their own finances than renters, the latest Lloyds Bank Spending Power Report has revealed.
NLA survey says majority of landlords won't use pension freedom to invest
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2015
A report from The National Landlords Association (NLA) shows that the majority of landlords don’t plan to take advantage of pension freedoms to invest in property.
Significant increase in buy to let sales says report
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2015
Buy to let sales in August 2015 were up by 54.1% compared to the corresponding month last year hitting £3.31bn, research from Equifax Touchstone shows.
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2015
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market.
Over half of borrowers say they will struggle when mortgage rates rise
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2015
52% of borrowers say they will struggle or fall behind with mortgage repayments when interest rates rise, according to a new survey by the Building Societies Association.
60% increase in the price of flats over the last decade
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2015
Halifax research has revealed that the average price of a flat has risen £730 per month over the past decade from £145,874 in 2005 to £233,424 today.
Nine million renters feel that home ownership is a distant dream
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
Nine million UK renters (45%) say they will never be able to afford their own home, according to the latest Post Office Money Mortgages survey.
Lasting Power of Attorney vital say property lawyers
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
A property solicitors’ practice says buy to let investors who intend using their property to fund some, or all, of their retirement should have a property Lasting Power of Attorney created before they reach retirement age.
Number of first time landlords on the increase
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
The latest research from the Nottingham Building Society has found that almost 1 in 5 (19%) of landlords plan to buy more properties and add to their portfolio.
Seven million over 50s still paying a mortgage
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
Research by the Saga Equity Release Advice Service has highlighted that around seven million over 50s are still paying off their mortgage, with dreams of holidays and new cars fading fast.
Huge reduction in house building within the green belt
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
The number of homes built within the green belt surrounding our towns and cities has halved over the last twenty years, according to research from Countrywide.
Strong recovery in lending to second steppers
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2015
Gross mortgage lending to second steppers and home movers rose strongly in July, to its highest level since October 2007, according to figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders
£41,000 premium to live near top rated schools
Posted on Monday, September 7, 2015
On average, parents pay a £41,000 premium to buy a house near one of England’s top secondary schools, say Lloyds Bank.
Government should encourage downsizing say CML
Posted on Monday, September 7, 2015
The government's planning system should be reformed so older borrowers have an incentive to free up family homes, says the Council of Mortgage Lenders’ chief economist Bob Pannell.
Over 1,000 buy to let mortgages now available
Posted on Tuesday, September 1, 2015
The number of buy to let mortgages available in the market has hit 1,000 which is the highest level since 2008..
Supply of rental property increases
Posted on Tuesday, September 1, 2015
The number of available private rented properties rose in July, according to the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA).
Half a million people intend to use pension to repay mortgage
Posted on Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Over half a million people in the UK intend to use all or part of their pension to help repay their mortgage balance, reveals new research from specialist insurer Partnership.
Good news as arrears and repossessions fall again
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
According to the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the repossession rate - already at its lowest since records began - continued to fall in the second quarter of 2015. During that period, the rate was 0.02% - equivalent to just 1 in 5,000 mortgages. Arrears also continued to fall.
How long does it take to choose a new home?
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
Research shows that a third of house hunters spend almost three months browsing the property market before deciding on their new home.
Nearly 40% of Right to Buy homes have ended up in private rental sector
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
Nearly 40% of all homes sold under Right To Buy in England have gone on to become buy to let investment properties.
Modern kitchens, private parking and gardens top list of “desirability” factors according to survey
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
A modern or open plan kitchen, off-street parking and a back garden are the features most likely to make a home ‘more desirable’ to potential buyers, according to research from property portal OnTheMarket.com.
Rise in popularity for 30+ year mortgage deals
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
The proportion of homebuyers searching for mortgages with terms of 30 years or more has risen 8% to 21% over the past year.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2015
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
£26 million confirmed by Government for new first time buyer homes
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Communities secretary Greg Clark has announced a £26 million fund for house builders to build starter homes for first-time buyers.
Affordability at risk of creating housing market stalemate say Experian
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
The UK housing market is at risk of a stalemate as growing families in most parts of the country face unaffordable increases in mortgage size if they want to move up the property ladder, say Experian.
40% of 55 to 64 year olds banking on property wealth to fund their retirement
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
New research from more 2 life shows that 40% of homeowners in the run-up to retirement are now relying on their property wealth as part of their planning.
Re-mortgage lending rising
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
House purchase lending hit £20.1 billion in June 2015, up 25% on May and up 13% on June 2014 while re-mortgage figures finally started to recover, say the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
Buy to let mortgage lending enjoys another strong month say CML
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
The rise of buy to let lending continues apace with the latest figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders showing another increase in activity.
Research shows properties on 'Lanes' worth £100k more than 'Streets'
Posted on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Properties situated on ‘Lanes’ are worth over £100,000 more than those on a ‘Street’ according to new research by Barclays Mortgages.
Landlords unperturbed by buy to let mortgage tax relief cuts
Posted on Thursday, August 6, 2015
The vast majority of landlords are unperturbed by the cuts in buy to let tax relief announced in the summer budget with just 10% planning to sell up as a result, Barclays has said.
London: The cost of property vs the cost of commuting
Posted on Thursday, August 6, 2015
London commuters typically save £450,000 on the cost of buying homes one hour away from the capital by rail, research from Lloyds Bank has found.
ONS: Rents continue to rise
Posted on Thursday, August 6, 2015
Private rents paid by tenants in Great Britain rose by 2.5% in the 12 months to June 2015, official figures from the Office for National Statistics show.
NAEA: June sees potential buyers at eleven year high
Posted on Thursday, August 6, 2015
According to the National Association of Estate Agents, the number of potential buyers registered per estate agency branch was the highest recorded in eleven years.
Huge increase in planning consents
Posted on Thursday, August 6, 2015
Figures released by HBF and Glenigan’s latest Housing Pipeline report show planning permissions for 52,167 homes were granted in England during the first quarter of this year, a 19% increase on the 43,926 permissions in the same quarter in 2014.
Demand for smaller homes rises as asking prices reach a new high
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
Market Update
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
The art, or lack of it, of moving home
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
A survey by London removals and storage firm Kiwi Movers shows that 25% of us pack unwanted clutter that we’ll never use when moving house and over half still have unpacking to do ten months after moving into a new home.
£300 billion of property wealth lies with the over 55’s
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
Over-55 homeowners have some £300 billion of property wealth they could draw upon in retirement, says research from Retirement Advantage.
The average UK home increases in value by £7000 in first half of year
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
The average value of homes across Britain rose by almost £7,000 (2.7%) during the first six months of 2015, data from property website Zoopla reveals.
Huge increase in investment in student lettings sector
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
Investment into the country’s student housing market hit £3.98 billion in the first half 2015, well ahead of the £2.35 billion recorded for the whole of 2014, say property consultancy CBRE.
Renters to outstrip mortgagors by 2025 say Pricewaterhouse Cooper (PwC)
Posted on Sunday, July 26, 2015
A report from PwC says that renters will outnumber mortgagors in a decade due to a lack of supply and tighter mortgage affordability criteria.
Energy efficiency countdown begins for landlords
Posted on Monday, July 20, 2015
New legislation has recently been passed that will make it easier for tenants to rent more energy efficient properties.
Equity release market continues to boom
Posted on Friday, July 17, 2015
Equity release lending surged 17 per cent in the first six months of 2015, new research suggests.
Right to Rent rules to be enforced nationwide autumn 2015
Posted on Friday, July 17, 2015
At present, new rules for Landlords to check the immigration status of their tenants are being piloted in the areas of Birmingham, Walsall, Sandwell, Dudley and Wolverhampton.
Half a million are property millionaires
Posted on Friday, July 17, 2015
More than half a million homeowners now own property worth £1m, the Zoopla Property Rich List report has revealed.
Rents up everywhere as new tenants flock to cities
Posted on Friday, July 17, 2015
HomeLet’s rental index figures for June shows another rise with average rents outside of London now standing at £747 per month, with the capital coming in at £1,515 per month.
Open House - 18th July - Kingsmill Cottage
Posted on Tuesday, July 14, 2015
A beautiful and unique Grade ll listed executive home found at the entrance to the Willowbank and sought after Kings Island development.
First Time Buyer mortgage products hit highest level since 2007
Posted on Monday, July 13, 2015
First-time buyer mortgage products have soared to their highest level since 2007 with the number of 90% and 95% loan-to-value mortgages now totalling 723 products, Moneyfacts data shows.
Tie the knot or buy some bricks and mortar?
Posted on Monday, July 13, 2015
You grow up, get married, buy a house and have 2.4 children. At least that's how things used to work. These days an increasing number of young (and indeed not so young) couples are having to make a choice between their dream wedding day and their dream of owning their own home.
Government to reform planning permissions
Posted on Monday, July 13, 2015
The government plans to reform brownfield planning permission rules in a bid to boost housebuilding across the UK.
43% of landlords say demand is booming
Posted on Monday, July 6, 2015
New research by Paragon Mortgages has found that continued growth in the BTL market is rife in the second quarter, with 43% of landlords experiencing a rise in tenant demand.
First-time buyer numbers down
Posted on Monday, July 6, 2015
Research from Halifax showed 10,000 fewer people have taken a step onto the property ladder so far this year compared with 149,500 in the same period last year.
Owner (and under) occupied homes: what do the numbers show?
Posted on Monday, July 6, 2015
People renting their home were nearly four times more likely to live in overcrowded conditions than owner-occupiers, according to data emerging from the 2011 census.
More new homes given planning permission than before crash
Posted on Monday, July 6, 2015
The numbers of new homes granted planning permission are now higher than before the 2008 economic crash.
Council for Mortgage Lenders to investigate lending into retirement
Posted on Monday, July 6, 2015
The Council of Mortgage Lenders has begun work to measure the impact the Mortgage Market Review has had on borrowers who want a mortgage past the age of retirement.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the currnet property market
More buy-to-let deals for first-time landlords
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
The number of buy-to-let mortgage deals available to novice landlords is on the rise, according to Moneyfacts.
'Pension freedom' landlords behind buy to let boom
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
Analysis by financial services comparison website Moneyfacts suggests that since so-called ‘pension freedom’ was introduced in the spring the number of buy-to-let products available to first-time landlords has risen by 13 per cent, up from 574 in April to 664 today.
1 in 4 cites low rates as reason for moving
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
The latest research from the Nottingham Building Society has found that around one in four homeowners planning to move in the next six months said that rate reductions were the driving factor behind their decision.
Conveyancer optimism rises
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
Conveyancers are growing more optimistic in the state of the housing market, SearchFlow’s Conveyancer Sentiment Survey has found.
Would-be buyers confident on mortgage repayment
Posted on Thursday, June 25, 2015
Keeping up with monthly mortgage repayments is becoming less of a problem for people wanting to buy a home, the Building Societies Association has suggested.
Average tenancy is almost three years, study finds
Posted on Friday, June 19, 2015
An industry study reports that the average tenancy length is now almost three years.
Rents rising across UK
Posted on Friday, June 19, 2015
Rents in every region of the UK rose for the first time since October 2014 with new tenancies agreed in London scaling £1,500 per month for the first time in May, the HomeLet Rental Index suggests.
House prices hit new highs
Posted on Friday, June 19, 2015
Six out of ten regions across the UK set new record house price highs as the supply and demand imbalance continued to march north, Rightmove has revealed.
Mortgages for house purchase down 10% in a year
Posted on Friday, June 19, 2015
Monthly lending for house purchase in April was 10% down on the same month last year.
Location, location, location key for buyers
Posted on Friday, June 19, 2015
Homebuyers are increasingly sacrificing space for location with fewer people seeing the need for a garage, south-facing garden and private outdoor space than a year ago, Santander research shows.
First time buyers have never had it so good
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
New analysis from MoneySuperMarket has found that mortgage rates for first time buyers are at a three year low.
Drop in house sales, Land Registry reports
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
The Land Registry has reported a big drop in sales.
Help to Buy approaches 100,000 mark
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
Help to Buy has helped nearly 100,000 people buy a home in the two years since it launched.
Stamp Duty changes save buyers over £700m
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
Home buyers have saved £701m in the six months since the introduction of the Stamp Duty Land Tax reforms on December 4, conveyancing firm myhomemove has calculated.
Cash buyers of homes at their highest ever at almost four in ten
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
A record number of people who bought homes in the first quarter of this year were cash buyers.
Fast internet is student rental priority
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
A new report ‘What Students Seek’ has surveyed students around the country to gauge what is most important when considering a property to rent.
UK homes need insulation law
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
The government should introduce legislation to ensure all UK homes have proper insulation to end ‘fuel poverty’ where energy is wasted says an independent engineering society.
Number of borrowers using equity release to clear interest-only loans trebles
Posted on Monday, June 8, 2015
The number of borrowers using equity release as a means of paying off an interest-only mortgage has trebled since the Mortgage Market Review was introduced, says Age Partnership.
More than three-quarters of new households in private rented sector
Posted on Monday, June 1, 2015
In a new snapshot of Britain, it has emerged that over three-quarters of all new UK households are being created in the private rented sector.
Two-thirds of landlords now planning to buy new BTL properties
Posted on Monday, June 1, 2015
Private rented sector to account for 20% of housing stock by 2020
Posted on Monday, June 1, 2015
The private rented sector is expected to grow by 700,000 households to 5.5 million by 2020, accounting for 20 per cent of the total housing stock.
Market Update
Posted on Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market
First-timers delaying house purchase
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
First-time buyers are having to wait longer than planned to take their first step onto the property ladder, research from Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks claims.
Government should do more with empty homes
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Young people want to see the government devolve more power to local authorities to tackle empty homes, refurbishing them and getting them back in use, Halifax research has claimed.
Another huge surge in buy to let lending
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Latest figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders show there were 18,200 buy to let loans in March - up 12 per cent on the previous month and up a whopping 21 per cent compared to March 2014.
Starving market of supply – the households that stay put for years
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Households are moving home much less often – often waiting two or three decades – and starving the market of supply.
Government fails to promote housing wealth
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
The government has failed to promote the role of housing wealth in retirement funding said experts and financial professionals at the Great Retirement Money Debate hosted by the Equity Release Council.
Housebuilding recovery 'gathers momentum': HBF
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Official statistics show that 40,340 new homes were started in England in Q1 of this year, the highest quarterly number since 2007. The figures show that the momentum from 2014, which saw 137,310 new homes started, up 10% on 2013 and 60% on the trough in 2009, is gathering speed.
Promotion for Kayleigh
Posted on Monday, May 25, 2015
We are delighted to announce that Kayleigh Arnold has been promoted to Senior Negotiator in our sales operation
Help to Buy 2 far off capacity
Posted on Monday, May 18, 2015
The Help to Buy mortgage guarantee is a long way off running at full capacity, Genworth analysis has found.
UK landlords seeking more remortgages
Posted on Monday, May 18, 2015
Buy-to-let landlords are rushing to remortgage as record low rates look increasingly attractive, new data from a mortgage broker shows.
UK Help to Buy Schemes Continue to Benefit First Time Buyers
Posted on Monday, May 18, 2015
The UK’s flagship housing schemes aimed at boosting the property market continue to flourish with first time buyers benefitting the most, the latest published data shows.
Arrears and repossessions numbers fall
Posted on Monday, May 18, 2015
Mortgage arrears and repossessions are falling across both owner-occupier and buy-to-let lending.
Landlords urged to act now on new fire regulations
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2015
New regulations requiring landlords to install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their rental properties have been laid before Parliament and are expected to come into force, subject to approval, on 10 October 2015.
New housing registrations up 18% year-on-year
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2015
New house building figures released today by NHBC for Q1 2015 show that more than 40,000 new homes were registered in the UK during the first three months of the year, an increase of 18% on the same period last year.
Buy to Let investors “don't know how to apply”
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2015
One in four potential buy-to-let customers don't know how to apply for a mortgage to get started, new research shows.
Agents and developers make Build to Rent plea
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2015
Around 40 developers, property consultants and block managers have sent an open letter to the new government to create economic and planning conditions which will allow the growth of the Build To Rent sector.
Mortgage Market Review continues to frustrate customers
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2015
According to a recent survey conducted by gocompare.com, just 59% of people who recently switched their mortgage provider described the process as ‘easy’, a drop of 11% compared to July 2014 when the same survey was carried out.
British Property Federation: Build homes to rent not sell
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Britain must build large rented housing schemes run by institutional investors rather than focusing solely on building new homes for sale, a campaign group has claimed.
Transactions drop across England and Wales, says Land Registry
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
The average house price in March stood at £178,007 across England and Wales – a monthly drop of 0.8%.
Help to Buy customers £180 better off annually than renters
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
According to new data from Mortgage Advice Bureau, first-time buyers who have used the Government’s Help to Buy mortgage guarantee scheme are spending £180 less per year on repaying their mortgage than if they were renting.
Over 40s most likely to become first-time landlords
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
According to a new survey by Rentguard Insurance, between 40 and 49 years old is the most common age for those becoming a landlord for the first time.
Landlords fail to take all costs into account for Buy to Let
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
UK landlords are at risk of overestimating the profitability of their buy-to-let investment by neglecting to take into account key running costs, according to research by a property firm.
We can’t build all the homes the politicians want, say house builders
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Over two-thirds of house builders believe that it would be impossible to build any more than 180,000 homes a year – short of the 200,000 that Labour, the Liberal Democrats and UKIP have all pledged to deliver.
One in four landlords consider using pension lump sum
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
One in four landlords would consider using a lump sum from their pension to invest in property, with a further 24% undecided, research from BM Solutions shows
Buy-to-let outpacing residential growth
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Analysis from Equifax Touchstone shows that buy-to-let lending in Q1 2015 grew by nearly 20% year-on-year, outpacing residential lending which was up by 1.6%.
Report says one bed flats have highest yield
Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2015
The average rental yield for a one-bed property across the UK is 5.9% compared to 5.3% for a two-bed, 4.7% for a three-bed and 4.0% for a four-bed property.
New report says owners move house 'only once every 23 years'
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015
The changing face of the UK’s housing market means the average turnover of a property has almost trebled since the 1980s from eight to 23 years, according to the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association.
Pension saving concerns for one in five
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015
Up to 45% of over-40s ‘would consider’ buy-to-let to increase retirement income
Buy-to-let market continues to thrive
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015
The Bank of England Trends in Lending report for April shows that the buy-to-let sector has continued to grow in 2015.
Gross mortgage lending grows in March
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015
The Council of Mortgage Lenders estimates that gross mortgage lending reached £16.5bn billion in March. This is a 21% rise on February at £13.6bn and 7% higher than last year.
Market Update – too close to call?
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the property market as we enter the final days before the General Election
Help to Buy 2 deposits reach 10-month high
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2015
The average deposit for house purchases using the Help to Buy mortgage guarantee scheme reached a 10-month high in February, according to Mortgage Advice Bureau.
Official statistics show house prices cooling
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2015
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show house prices cooling.
Buy to let mortgages: steady rise year on year
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2015
There were 15,900 buy to let loans in February, down 13% compared to January but up 11% on the total a year earlier, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
Market optimism returns
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
Optimism in the housing market is rising – as more than a third (36%) see now as a good time to buy, the Building Societies Association has revealed.
New home registrations continue to increase
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
According to figures released by NHBC, the number of new homes registered in the UK in February grew by 25% compared to the same month last year.
The things your parents will throw out when you leave home
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
According to a new study from Big Yellow Self Storage, parents throw out possessions worth £285 when a child grows up and leaves the family home.
HMRC campaign takes £20m in letting sector tax
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
The HMRC ‘Let Property’ campaign recovered just over £20m by the end of January - a dramatic rise from the October 2014 figure which stood at just £7.9 million.
Deregulation Bill receives Royal Assent
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
The Deregulation Bill has received Royal Assent so now is the time for all landlords to ensure that their properties will be compliant with the new laws regarding both deposit protection and revenge evictions.
First time buyers account for a third of all house sales
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
The National Association of Estate Agents has highlighted that 30% of house sales in February were made to those who are just starting to climb the property ladder.
Pensioner property wealth hits record high
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
Retired homeowners in the UK now collectively own property worth £861 billion with their total property wealth increasing by more than £33 billion in the past six months, the equivalent of around £1,200 a month each.
Stamp Duty changes save homebuyers £1bn
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
More than two thirds of homebuyers across the UK are likely to benefit from the new Stamp Duty regime, with 29% seeing no change and just 2% likely to pay more, data produced by Nationwide reveals.
Which of the major housing policies are most important to UK homeowners?
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
The General Election is looming. One of the key points in the battleground is housing and the main political parties have been quick to lay out their promises before us hoping to swing our votes their way.
First-time buyers try before they buy
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
Over half (54%) of the nation’s first-time buyers like to rent before taking the house buying plunge, an annual survey from Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks has revealed.
Health and safety law change for all home improvements
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
From April 6th, for health and safety purposes, domestic projects will be treated in the same way as large new housing developments or the construction of shopping centres or office blocks
Custom build could be key to getting housebuilding back on track
Posted on Monday, April 6, 2015
A new report from Mortgage Advice Bureau has revealed that custom build could be the key to getting UK housebuilding back on track, saying that radical change is required to deliver the number of new homes needed to meet population demand.
Borrowers flock to variable deals
Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2015
More borrowers plumped for variable deals in February than any month over the last two years on a proportional basis, the Mortgage Advice Bureau’s National Mortgage Index has revealed.
Tories eye property IHT overhaul
Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2015
Chancellor George Osborne is considering reforms that would allow parents to pass a main property worth up to £1m to their children without paying inheritance tax, The Guardian reports.
Sub-letting clause could spell trouble for landlords
Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2015
“Allowing sub-letting will be catastrophic for the rental industry” says Landlord Action.
Void periods drop to 13 year low
Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2015
The latest landlord research by Paragon Mortgages has revealed the average annual void period has dropped to its lowest level since 2002.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2015
Chris Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Landlords: Make Green Deal applications now
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
The Residential Landlords Association is reminding investment property owners in the private rental sector that the government has launched the latest phase of the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund.
Home Builders Federation urge Chancellor to accelerate increase in housebuilding
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
The Home Builders Federation has used its submission to next week’s Budget to request measures to help boost the delivery of much needed housing by introducing a package of measures to move sites more quickly through the development process and give a shot in the arm to small house builders.
Buy to Let (BTL) sector braces itself for a silver landlord surge
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
As pension freedom day draws closer, the UK buy-to-let sector is bracing itself for a surge of silver landlords ready to put their pensions into property.
Smoke alarms mandatory in rental property from October
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
The government has confirmed that letting agents and landlords will be required by law to install working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their properties from October 2015.
Stamp duty revenue at record levels
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
Higher volumes of residential property transactions and an increase in their prices are believed to be behind record breaking stamp duty revenues say the Halifax.
High loan to value (LTV) lending bounces back
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
High LTV mortgage lending has drastically increased as a percentage of market since December when Stamp Duty was reformed, the latest Mortgage Monitor from e.surv has revealed.
20% off starter home prices if Tories win election
Posted on Monday, March 16, 2015
The government has announced that its new starter home website has officially launched allowing young people to register their interest in buying a new home.
Tories pledge 200,000 starter homes
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
David Cameron has doubled his 100,000 homes pledge, vowing to deliver 200,000 properties for first-time buyers in England by 2020 under the Starter Homes initiative if the Conservatives win the election.
First time buyers will be hit by H2B2 closure say IMLA
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
Failing to replace the Help to Buy 2 mortgage guarantee with a permanent indemnity scheme will push the first-time buyer market back into decline, according to new research by the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association.
Chinese buyers set to increase spend in UK housing market
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
Chinese international property portal Juwai says that Chinese investment in the UK housing market is set to grow this year.
Housebuilding decline averted by Help to Buy
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
According to new analysis by Mortgage Advice Bureau, HTB1 helped to prevent a drop of 5% in new housing completions in England last year.
More than 1.75m mortgaged households have never seen interest rates rise
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
The Money Charity has warned that more than 1.75m mortgaged households have never experienced a rise in the Bank of England base rate, putting them at risk of a financial shock when rates do increase.
First time buyers no longer relying on parents
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
The number of first-time buyers relying on the Bank of Mum and Dad for support has dropped significantly according to new research.
Help to Buy schemes help over 80,000 people buy a home
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
The Help to Buy equity loan and mortgage guarantee schemes have helped more than 80,000 people buy a home.
MP blames landlords for anti-social tenants
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2015
Nick de Bois, MP for Enfield North, has tabled a ten-minute rule bill in the Houses of Commons in a bid to change the law to allow the housing ombudsman to intervene between neighbours and landlords.
Market Update
Posted on Thursday, February 26, 2015
Christopher Harper and Darren Murphy give their views on the current property market
Huge rise in buy to let mortgage loans
Posted on Monday, February 23, 2015
Buy to let mortgages in December totalled 17,300 - a huge 18 per cent rise over the same month in 2013 according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
What are the top sacrifices made to get on the property ladder?
Posted on Monday, February 23, 2015
For many people owning their own home is a dream they are determined to make a reality.
Mortgage lending down 11% year on year in January
Posted on Monday, February 23, 2015
Gross mortgage lending is estimated to have fallen 11 per cent year-on-year in January.
Challenging time for young tenants, says think tank
Posted on Monday, February 23, 2015
The Institute for Fiscal Studies says that while mortgage-paying owner occupiers and landlords have benefitted hugely from low interest rates, renters - especially young ones - have had no such respite in the lettings market.
Housing sales up 21% say Lloyds Bank
Posted on Monday, February 23, 2015
Home sales increased by 21% in the first 10 months of 2014 compared to the same period in 2013, research from Lloyds Bank has revealed.
Repossessions down 26% in 2014 say CML
Posted on Monday, February 16, 2015
The Council for Mortgage Lenders has revealed that during 2014 the level of repossessions fell to their lowest numbers since 2006, a drop of 26% against figures from 2013.
Carney warns of potential future rate cuts as deflation looms
Posted on Monday, February 16, 2015
Bank of England governor Mark Carney says inflation could turn negative in the Spring and warns he would consider cutting interest rates if deflation persists.
Parliamentary support for ban on revenge evictions
Posted on Monday, February 16, 2015
A long and technical debate in the House of Lords last evening ended with amendments to the Deregulation Bill being passed which are likely to lead to the outlawing of so-called retaliatory evictions.
Mortgage wars continue as home buyers find cheapest deals ever
Posted on Monday, February 16, 2015
Mortgage rates have plunged to new record lows, the Bank of England has reported, while the price war between lenders shows no sign of a let-up.
Bank of England's new powers to help manage housing market
Posted on Tuesday, February 10, 2015
The government is giving the Bank of England new powers over the housing market in a bid to prevent excessive price booms and equally excessive lending by banks.
Energy change could cost lettings sector £3.4 billion over next three years
Posted on Tuesday, February 10, 2015
A utility supplier claims that the cost of making rental properties conform with new energy efficiency rules is likely to be £3.4 billion over the next three years.
The fire service calls for all private landlords to install smoke alarms
Posted on Tuesday, February 10, 2015
New laws must be introduced to ensure all private landlords install smoke alarms, say fire and rescue authorities.
Council for Mortgage Lenders: Mortgage rates reach new lows - and the outlook remains positive
Posted on Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Last November, the average new tracker mortgage rate fell to 1.96%, according to the regulated mortgage survey – the first time that it has ever dipped below 2%. For fixed-rate borrowers, it’s the same picture, with some lenders offering the lowest long-term rates the market has ever seen.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) report that private rents rose 1.7% in the 12 months to December.
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
Rents rose most in London at 2.4%. They increased by 1.8% in England, 2% in Scotland and 0.2% in Wales.
Mortgage approvals up for first time in six months, says Bank of England
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
Mortgage approvals rose for the first time in six months in December.
Landlords face ticking time-bomb of energy compliance
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
Landlords are at risk of financial penalties and being unable to let their properties if they fail to meet minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) that come into play in 2018.
Build to Rent key to boosting supply, say MPs
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
A body chaired by two ex-housing ministers and sponsored by a bank has entered the debate on how to increase the supply of new homes across the country and keep house price inflaton under control as a result.
Ultra-low voids still normal in buy to let sector
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
The average void period for landlords over the past three months has been just 2.6 weeks - the lowest in 2014 and continuing a record run of low-void activity in the rental market.
Housing costs eat up over 50% of earnings for one in eight
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
According to new findings from the Debt Advisory Centre, 12% of those who currently have a mortgage or pay rent in the UK are spending most of their take-home pay on keeping a roof over their head.
West Bromwich Building Society: Landlords lose case
Posted on Monday, February 2, 2015
A judge has ruled that the West Bromwich building society was within its rights to increase rates on tracker mortgages despite no change in the Bank of England base rate.
Crossrail submits plans for improved West Drayton station
Posted on Wednesday, January 28, 2015
The plans include a new glass and steel extension and lifts providing step-free access to all platforms.
Hillingdon Council approves Airports Commission response against Heathrow expansion
Posted on Wednesday, January 28, 2015
The council says the airport's proposals are 'fulled of hollow promises and gaping holes, lacking any realistic assessment'.
Market Update
Posted on Monday, January 26, 2015
Darren Murphy and Chris Harper give their views on the current property market.
UK government finalises new capital gains tax charge for non-resident homeowners
Posted on Monday, January 26, 2015
Non-resident UK homeowners that have spent less than 90 days in their UK property in the previous tax year will be liable to pay capital gains tax (CGT) on any gains when they sell that property from next year, the UK government has confirmed.
West Bromwich Building Society in court over rate hike
Posted on Monday, January 26, 2015
The long-awaited court case over increased tracker rates by the West Bromwich Building Society began in January.