News 

The number of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across England has risen by 2.3% over the past year, reaching nearly 473,000. But while some regions and local authorities have seen huge increases, others recorded steep falls, reflecting stark regional disparities in the sector.

London and southern England buyers are enjoying the largest boost in affordability, with monthly mortgage savings of up to £181 compared to last year, as asking prices soften and mortgage rates fall.

UK construction activity fell again in August, marking eight straight months of contraction, as housing and civil engineering continued to struggle, according to S&P Global’s Construction PMI.

UK construction activity fell again in August, marking eight straight months of contraction, as housing and civil engineering continued to struggle, according to S&P Global’s Construction PMI.

Limited company ownership is increasingly shaping the buy-to-let market, with one in five landlords now incorporating, according to Pegasus Insight.

UK remortgage completions surged by 71% in July 2025, with two-year fixed-rate deals becoming the most popular choice among borrowers. While many faced higher repayments, short-term certainty and equity release opportunities drove activity — highlighting shifting homeowner strategies across regions.

Two leading UK lenders have cut rates below 4% following the Bank of England’s decision to lower its base rate to 4% in August 2025. First-time buyers could now secure deals from as low as 3.73%, while easing affordability rules and increased housing supply are fuelling competition across the mortgage market.

The Bank of England has reduced its base interest rate to 4% in August 2025 — its fifth cut in a year. While the move brings potential relief for borrowers, policymakers have warned that rising food prices could drive inflation back up, creating a challenging environment for future rate decisions.

Residential property transactions rose by 13% in June 2025, marking a possible shift in buyer confidence. As affordability improves and the effects of stamp duty reform settle, experts say a more stable property market may be emerging.

Targeted stamp duty relief for older movers could free up over 500,000 homes in just 12 months, new research suggests — easing pressure on the UK housing market and increasing availability for first-time buyers and growing families.

The Bank of England may cut rates again on 7 August, offering a potential reprieve for borrowers and homebuyers. With inflation easing and market uncertainty growing, economists expect lower borrowing costs in the months ahead.

Targeted stamp duty relief for downsizers could unlock more than 500,000 homes in just 12 months, new research shows. As older homeowners hesitate to move due to tax costs, calls grow for reform to ease the housing shortage

A record outflow of millionaires and tax changes have triggered the deepest buyer anxiety in Prime Central London for over a decade. Prices are slipping, transactions are down — yet some investors see fresh opportunities.

Homes England delivered 36,872 new homes in the 12 months to March 2025 — a 12% year-on-year increase. Most completions were affordable homes, as a maturing Affordable Homes Programme begins to pay off.

The Bank of England has voted to hold interest rates at 4.25% following a 6–3 split. With wage growth slowing and inflation easing, markets are now preparing for a possible rate cut as soon as August.

The UK Government is making the 5% deposit Mortgage Guarantee Scheme permanent from July 2025. A move expected to boost confidence for both buyers and lenders across the UK.

A change in Bank of England guidance could lift first-time buyer transactions by up to 24% over the next five years. As lenders ease affordability checks, demand for homes is expected to surge — with potential implications for house prices and supply.

Private renters faced the steepest rise in living costs this year, with rent inflation hitting 3.6% in March 2025. As rental prices continue to surge, contractors and lower-income households are under increasing financial pressure.

Rental supply in London is up 9% year-to-date, but average weekly rents are still climbing — hitting £589 in April 2025, according to Foxtons’ latest lettings report.

The Treasury has cut its stake in NatWest to just 0.90%, marking the final stages of the bank’s return to private ownership — a move that could influence lending practices across the mortgage market.