Housing minister defends Labour’s policy record at committee
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook has defended the Government’s housing policy record during questioning by MPs, rejecting claims that Labour lacked a comprehensive plan when entering office in 2024. The minister’s…
Five million UK households to face higher mortgage costs
More than five million UK households are expected to face higher mortgage repayments when they refinance over the next two years, according to the Bank of England’s latest Financial Stability…
Property sellers expect agent responses within 24 hours
Estate agents face mounting pressure to respond to client communications within 24 hours across nearly all stages of the property sales process, according to new research from Street Group. A…
AI-enhanced property photos raise transparency concerns
Estate agents are increasingly using artificial intelligence tools to digitally enhance property photographs, from repainting walls to adding non-existent lawns, raising questions about transparency in property marketing. The practice, which…
Portfolio landlord saves £280,000 on 77-property refinance
Paragon Bank has completed the refinancing of a 77-property portfolio through its multi-property proposition, with the transaction expected to save the landlord approximately £280,000 over five years compared to their…
Close Brothers finances final phase of £120m development
Close Brothers Property Finance has provided development finance for the fourth and final phase of Kingsbury Park, a £120m GDV residential scheme in Lutterworth, Leicestershire, developed by Mulberry Homes. The…
UK build to rent investment hits £2.2bn in second quarter
Investment into the UK Build to Rent sector reached £2.2 billion in the second quarter of 2026, marking the strongest second quarter on record, according to research from Savills. The…
Websters acquires Watsons to enter North Norfolk market
Websters Estate Agents has acquired the residential sales business of Watsons in Sheringham, marking its entry into the North Norfolk coastal property market. The acquisition includes Watsons’ high street branch…
Devon estate agency Kivells transitions to hybrid EOT model
Kivells, a Devon-based property firm established in 1885, has transitioned to a hybrid employee ownership trust (EOT) structure that combines employee ownership with existing shareholder and senior management control. The…
Flat market recovery key to housing sector growth, says CEO
Restoring buyer confidence in flats is critical to revitalising the housing market, according to Andy Hill, CEO of Hill Group. Speaking to The Times, Hill noted that flats have historically…