2025

A fixer-upper or a home that has 'room for improvement' has long been attractive to buyers. But that could be changing. Let's explore if it's a good idea to get your home move-in ready before putting it on the market.   What buyers want may be changing   A new survey* says buyers are prioritising 'ready to go' properties – rather than homes requiring extensive work – due to higher...

If you’re new to renting, here’s some advice that will help get your tenancy off to a good start and avoid future disputes. Searching for a property to rent can be daunting, especially if you’re a first-time tenant. But by avoiding the rookie mistakes listed below, you can build the foundations of a long and happy tenancy. Not using a legit letting agency Thousands of Brits lose money to...

When you’re moving home, removal costs can take up a fair slice of your budget. Here are some top tips on how to save money on home removals, whether you’re buying, selling or renting.   Start planning early   Last-minute arrangements are generally more expensive.   Starting your planning early gives you more options on when and how you move your...

If you're looking to get on the property ladder, here are some helpful home truths that could help you avoid a costly mistake. Stepping over the threshold into your first property is an exciting and memorable moment. However, first-time buyers (FTBs) can waste valuable time and money by making any of these common homebuying mistakes. Not doing your sums Many FTBs start property hunting without...

Around 5.6 million keys of all types are lost every single year.* Here's some advice for landlords on minimising the headaches caused when tenants lose their keys or lock themselves out.   Beware self-locking locks   Locks which automatically lock when the door is closed (or the wind blows it shut) are a common reason for getting locked out. When you're changing locks, it may be a good idea...

Downsizing into a purpose-built retirement apartment or flat is something that many older homeowners ponder. Here are some things to consider if you, or a friend or relative, are looking into buying in a retirement development.   What do retirement apartments offer?   Retirement apartments, which are part of a purpose-built retirement development, are found in many towns and cities now....

Gas safety should be a number one priority for all landlords. Gas Safety Week 2025, which runs from 8 to 14 September, is a good time to make sure your properties are 100% gas safe.   What is Gas Safety Week?   Gas Safety Week is a publicity campaign run by industry body Gas Safe Register.   One of its aims is to encourage everyone – landlords, tenants and homeowners alike – to...

It’s good to be green. But here are some things to bear in mind if you’re considering buying a green home.   What exactly is a green home?   A green home is usually thought of as being a property that is very energy efficient, eco-friendly and sustainable.   A green home will have high levels of insulation, thermal efficiency and water efficiency. It is likely to have solar...

Some landlords will have to change the way they file their tax returns from April next year. Read on to find out if you will be affected.   Here’s a friendly reminder that changes in the way HMRC expects the self-employed, including landlords, to manage their tax returns are coming.   The initiative, called Making Tax Digital (MTD), is about digitising the tax...

There are now 1.3 million electric vehicles on UK roads, with numbers rising 38% over the last year alone.* Here’s what landlords need to know about the demand for electric vehicle charging.   Do you need to fit an EV charger in your property?   There is currently no legal requirement for rental properties to offer EV charging.   However, all new build homes with private parking...