2025

Most tenancies run smoothly. But when a tenancy goes wrong, it can go very wrong. Conducting a regular property check is one way to head off problems. Why should you inspect your rental? An inspection of your rental is an opportunity to check its condition. You can see how your tenant is looking after your property and identify any maintenance that might be needed. You can also ensure no one is...

New rules on dealing with mould and damp in private rental properties are on the horizon. Here's what landlords need to know. The UK is a (generally) cold and wet country with the oldest housing stock in Europe. So, it's no surprise that problems such as damp and mould can arise in residential properties. This was brought into sharp focus earlier this month when the English Housing Survey...

There are certain milestones in your life when you should consider making a will or updating your existing one – and buying a home is one of them. Why you should make a will Making a will is the best way of ensuring that your home and other assets go to the people you want to have them when you die. In legal terms, a will is known as a last will and testament. Your home and other assets are...

With the online market for second-hand clothes booming, here’s how you can turn unwanted items in your wardrobe into cash. Selling second-hand items online is big business in the UK, with a quarter of Brits using digital marketplaces.* Gen-Zers do it the most. In the last three months of 2024, 53% of 18 to 25-year-olds sold belongings on platforms such as Depop and Vinted. The good news is that...

Landlords need to know about an important government rule change that quietly came into force late last year. Landlords have been warned to keep a close eye out for any new regulations introduced by their local council. The advice comes after new rules making it easier for local councils to introduce selective licensing schemes quietly came into force in December. Due to the timing of the changes...

Buying a property that was previously a rental can be well worth considering. Here’s what you need to know. Firstly, why buy an ex-rental property? An ex-rental can be an attractive property proposition for many reasons. Let’s take a look at them. Chain free Buying an ex-rental can be a quick process. There’s no waiting for the seller to find somewhere else to buy. Competitively...

Making someone feel special on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost the earth. Here are ways to make an impression without breaking the bank. Show someone you care this Valentine’s Day without paying through the nose for flowers or a meal out. Here are some ideas for romantics on a tight budget and those who, like Janet Jackson, believe the best things in life are free. Cook up a...

How can you encourage tenants to settle long-term in your rental? A report compiled by consumer psychologists claims to have the answers. A report on the psychology of buying and renting includes some helpful advice for landlords. The Bricks to Belonging report* was compiled by the psychological and behavioural science firm IB. It examines what drives renters to become first-time buyers or to...

Congratulations – you’ve had an offer on your future new home accepted. But don’t rush out to buy curtains just yet. Here’s some important information about what happens next. First, the sale agreement is drawn up The seller’s estate agent will probably draw up a sale agreement – sometimes known as a memorandum of sale – and give a copy to all parties. This agreement will confirm...

As this month is Frugal February, now’s the time to take charge of your finances. Here are three tips to help you save and prosper. 1. If it’s a takeaway – walk away Steer clear of anything that’s a takeaway – whether it’s a coffee, sandwich or full meal. You can usually enjoy the same thing (maybe something even nicer) by making it yourself. February is a good month to fill your own...