News

Belfast City Council has reiterated the critical importance of HMO (House of Multiple Occupancy) licensing for both prospective tenants and landlords in the city. As stipulated by current regulations, all HMOs operating within Belfast must secure a license from the council to ensure safety, quality, and effective management of properties. An HMO is defined as a residence accommodating three or more...

On September 11, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in Richmond, London, when two houses located on Lower Mortlake Road collapsed during a renovation project that aimed to transform them into co-living units. The redevelopment initiative, approved by Richmond Council in 2023, was touted as a modern housing solution catering primarily to working individuals looking for affordable living arrangements akin to...

In December 2024, UK inflation experienced a fractional decline, settling at2.5%, a slight decrease from the previous month’s figure of2.6%. This unexpected drop carries significant ramifications for the economy, particularly in the realm of mortgages and household expenditure. Contributing factors include a notable reduction in the prices of alcohol and tobacco, which has been elucidated by economic...

In a bold move to tackle Spain's ongoing housing crisis, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently announced a proposed 100% property tax on homes purchased by non-EU residents. This policy aims to address the alarming disparity in the housing market, where wealthy landlords, primarily foreign investors, have acquired numerous properties, leaving local residents increasingly unable to afford homes. With...

As the commercial real estate landscape evolves, navigating through recent shifts and challenges is crucial for leaders aiming to enhance organizational performance. A recent report by Deloitte presents a compelling outlook for 2025, offering insights that are vital for stakeholders in the industry. Key professionals like Jeff and Kathy from Deloitte leverage their extensive experience in real estate to...

In recent years, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have increasingly come under scrutiny in Kent, as the region grapples with the balancing act between community concerns and the lived experiences of tenants. With nearly 2,000 HMOs operating throughout the area, these residences, typically accommodating individuals from various households, have become a common form of housing, often situated in...

In a bid to enhance housing provisions in Hull, exciting plans for a new 32-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) have been proposed for 337-341 Beverley Road. This development, recently submitted to Hull City Council, signifies a shift from its current use as office space to addressing the growing demand for affordable housing in the area. The significance of this transformation extends beyond mere...

In recent years, the proliferation of Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) in Salford has raised significant concerns among residents and local officials alike. The council has issued warnings highlighting the adverse effects of these overcrowded shared housing units on community integrity and overall neighborhood wellbeing (Salford Council, 2025). As the city grapples with the challenges associated with...

In a significant development in North Belfast, the ongoing debates surrounding House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) conversions hit a new peak as a proposed conversion on Ponsonby Avenue was denied planning permission for the second time in six months. This decision reflects a growing trend, with a total of four HMO applications rejected in the area this year, predominantly due to opposition from Sinn Féin...

On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, two residential properties on Lower Mortlake Road in Richmond, west London, suddenly collapsed during an extensive redevelopment project aimed at transforming them into co-living spaces. The incident occurred around 15:00 BST while work was underway to convert the homes into 14 co-living units designed for young professionals, echoing a similar setup to traditional student...