News

The UK real estate market is poised for a notable recovery in 2024, according to a new report by Colliers. Factors such as anticipated interest rate cuts, decreasing inflation rates, and improved debt financing options are predicted to create a conducive environment for enhanced investment activity in the commercial property sector. With insights from industry experts like Oliver, who spearheads economic...

In a significant shift in housing policy, starting from April 2025, property owners in England with second homes will face a new regime of council tax that could double their existing charges. This initiative mirrors similar measures previously adopted in both Scotland and Wales, where tax levies on second homes have been increasing due to rising housing shortages in regions often targeted by...

In recent times, the rising costs of housing have significantly impacted numerous individuals and families across the UK, as evidenced by the experiences of Aimee, a 32-year-old woman who has been forced to reassess her dreams of starting a family following a substantial rent hike. This situation highlights a crucial and distressing trend within the rental market, where skyrocketing rents are driving...

In a recent decision that has sparked significant debate, the Somerset Council's planning committee has approved a contentious 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Friarn Street in Bridgwater. The approval was granted despite rigorous objections from local stakeholders regarding potential flooding risks from the adjacent Durleigh Brook and challenges related to insufficient parking. The council's...

In a significant enforcement action to uphold housing safety standards, two landlords in Sittingbourne, Kent, have been fined a total of over £25,000 for managing an overcrowded house in multiple occupation (HMO). The penalties were levied after an investigation by Swale Borough Council's housing enforcement team uncovered serious violations, including exceeding the legal occupancy limits and an unsafe...

As we approach April 2025, homeowners in England who possess second homes are preparing for significant changes regarding their council tax obligations. Under new regulations, local authorities will have the ability to double council tax on properties that are not considered main residences, marking a substantial move aimed at addressing the crisis in housing affordability particularly in regions popular...

Hyndburn Council has announced its intention to implement a new Article 4 direction aimed at regulating small houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across nine specific wards: Barnfield, Central, Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Netherton, Peel, Rishton, Spring Hill, and St. Andrews. This strategic measure is part of the council's efforts to address the increasing prevalence of HMOs, which is seen as a growing...

The UK real estate market is on the cusp of significant transformation in 2024, largely attributed to anticipated interest rate cuts and a decrease in inflation. These economic shifts are expected to unlock enhanced investment opportunities, particularly within the commercial property sector. According to recent insights shared by Oliver, Director of Economics and Research at Colliers, these developments...

Westminster City Council has initiated a consultation process for a new selective licensing scheme aimed at regulating the private rented sector in the city. This initiative seeks to engage tenants, landlords, property agents, and other stakeholders in providing feedback on the proposed scheme, which is designed to enhance the safety and management of privately rented homes occupied by families or small...

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled a pivotal budget that is set to reshape the mortgage and property landscape in the UK, stirring up a spectrum of responses from industry players. Among the budget highlights is the increase in the Stamp Duty surcharge on second homes from 2% to 5%, effective immediately. This decisive measure, described as a bold move by Stevie Heafford from HW Fisher, signals...