Tories Propose Tax Incentives for Landlords and Support for Home Buyers
The Conservative Party is offering tax breaks to landlords and support for homebuyers in its new election manifesto, aiming to boost housing investment and increase homeownership opportunities.
Rural House Prices in Great Britain Grow Faster Than in Urban Areas
House prices in rural areas of Great Britain have grown faster than in towns and cities over the past five years, with countryside semi-detached homes leading the way, increasing by 22%, according to Nationwide.
Inflation is Falling But Cheaper Mortgages Are Still a Way Off
Inflation in the UK has dropped to its lowest level in nearly three years, but homeowners should not expect relief from high mortgage rates anytime soon. Despite the consumer price index falling to 2.3%, higher-than-expected inflation means the Bank of England is unlikely to cut its base interest rate next month, leaving mortgage rates elevated and causing financial strain for many.
No-Fault Renters Evictions Bill Fails to Pass Before Parliament Shutdown
The Conservative promise to end no-fault evictions will not be realised before the election, as the Renters (Reform) Bill has failed to pass in time. Despite Labour’s support, time constraints and opposition in the House of Lords prevented the bill from becoming law.
How Cooling Inflation Affects House Prices and Mortgage Rates
Inflation in the UK has dropped to 2.3%, its lowest in nearly three years, raising questions about its impact on house prices and mortgage rates. Experts predict that mortgage rates will stay between 4.5% and 5%, despite hopes for a rate cut by the Bank of England. Learn more about the current housing market trends and what they mean for homebuyers.
Landlords Experience Surge in Demand as Limited Choices Drive Up Rents
UK landlords are facing unprecedented tenant demand as fewer properties are available in the private rented sector, leading to a sharp rise in rents. A survey by Finbri revealed that 71% of landlords saw higher demand last year, with rental properties now moving much faster than before. Read more on the implications for the rental market.
IMF Recommends Cutting UK Interest Rates to 3.5% by End of 2025
The International Monetary Fund has advised that UK interest rates should be cut to 3.5% by the end of 2025, potentially leading to significant reductions from the current rate of 5.25%. This recommendation comes with an upgraded growth forecast for the UK but also cautions against further tax cuts. Read more on how these changes could impact the UK economy.
Mortgage Rates Cut but Borrowing Pressures Remain
Several lenders, including Barclays, HSBC, and TSB, are cutting interest rates on new fixed mortgages, offering some relief to borrowers. However, costs remain high, and repossession claims have risen, reflecting the ongoing financial pressure on homeowners and tenants. Read more about the current mortgage landscape and its impact on the housing market.
UK Landlords Adjust Strategies Amid Rising Costs
A recent report from Foundation Home Loans reveals that many UK landlords are adapting to rising costs by renegotiating mortgages, increasing rents, and taking on more property management tasks. Despite these challenges, the private rented sector shows positive signs, with landlords planning to remortgage and seek expert guidance to maintain profitability and meet strong tenant demand.
NRLA Supports Renters (Reform) Bill as Fair for Tenants and Landlords
The Renters (Reform) Bill, currently under parliamentary debate, is seen by the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) as a fair compromise, incorporating significant tenant protections. However, tenant advocacy groups argue the bill fails to deliver promised reforms, highlighting continued insecurity and inadequate living conditions for renters.
Landlords Enjoy Highest Rental Yields Since 2018
Landlords are seeing a remarkable uptick in rental yields, marking the highest levels in six years. The surge, backed by research from Paragon Bank, underscores the resilience of the rental market amidst economic challenges. Learn more about the factors driving this increase and its impact on both landlords and tenants.
Stagnation in UK House Prices as Mortgage Rates Rise
In April, the UK housing market saw a marginal rise in average house prices, reflecting a cautious adjustment to higher mortgage rates. Despite this, challenges persist for both new buyers and existing homeowners transitioning from fixed-term deals. The anticipation of fewer interest rate cuts has contributed to a conservative lending environment, impacting affordability. However, long-term forecasts suggest a more optimistic outlook, driven by expectations of economic growth and gradual rate reductions.
UK Rental Market Shows Signs of Slowing Inflation Amid Easing Demand
Recent data indicates a deceleration in rental market inflation across the UK, with Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director of Fine & Country, highlighting a decrease from +9.8% to +7.5% compared to a year ago. This trend is particularly notable in London, where rental demand has diminished amidst factors like the pandemic's waning effects, labor market slowdown, and attractive mortgage rates for first-time buyers reported by Zoopla.
Impact of US Inflation on UK Mortgage Rates: What to Expect
London markets have been spooked by worse-than-expected economic data across the pond that has raised uncertainty over when central banks will start lowering interest rates. So what does this mean for mortgages?
Shifts in Buy-to-Let Market Prompt Landlords to Consider Selling Up
The UK’s buy to let market is experiencing a period of change, with nearly one in three landlords looking to sell up in the next 12 months, research reveals.
UK Housing Market Sees First Monthly Price Drop in Six Months Amid Rising Mortgage Costs
UK house prices fell in March for the first time in six months as more costly mortgage deals and continued uncertainty about when the Bank of England would start cutting interest rates hit the property market.
Nationwide: March Sees Subdued Growth in House Prices
Nationwide's latest report reveals subdued house price growth in March, attributed to higher mortgage rates affecting affordability.
FTSE 100 Dips Below 8,000 Mark but Remains Near All-Time High
The FTSE 100 fell back from the 8,000 mark but remained in the green as the index inched closer and closer to its all-time high.
London House Prices: Sellers Slash £20k Off Asking Prices in Bid to Secure Sales
According to the latest report from Zoopla, property sellers in London are offering significant discounts on asking prices, with reductions averaging £19,500, signaling potential challenges for house prices in the capital.