News

Croydon Council has reaffirmed its dedication to eliminating illegal houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) within the borough as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and improve living conditions. With rising concerns surrounding overcrowding and safety risks associated with unregulated housing, Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, emphasized the need for stringent regulation of HMOs to ensure the...

In a significant move that reflects changing economic conditions, the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee has announced a reduction in the UK's key interest rate from4.75% to4.5%. This decision, which was largely anticipated by financial markets, is poised to have extensive implications for mortgage rates and the wider housing market. As lenders begin to adjust their offers in the wake of this...

The UK property market is poised for a revitalization following the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of England. With the reduction from4.75% to4.5%, the Monetary Policy Committee has laid the groundwork for potential new investment opportunities, signalling to investors that now may be the time to reassess their portfolios and strategies. Acknowledging the significant progress in curbing inflation,...

In an era defined by rapid change and uncertainty, Deloitte has released its 2025 Commercial Real Estate Outlook, providing critical insights for industry leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of the market. Drawing upon the expertise of seasoned partners Jeff and Kathy, the outlook not only addresses prevailing trends but also delves into effective strategies for adaptation and growth within the...

Bradford's cityscape has recently been thrust into a heated debate over a proposed conversion of an office building into residential bedsits, aimed at addressing the urgent need for affordable housing amidst rising costs. The plans initiated by Jmail Assets for the property on Godwin Street intend to transform the existing office space into 38 compact living units designed for young professionals and...

The City of Edinburgh Council has announced a significant initiative to address the pressing issue of homelessness by relocating hundreds of families living in unlicensed temporary accommodations, with a target completion date set for the end of November2024. This decision comes against the backdrop of increasing demands for housing that have escalated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which...

The Welsh Government is actively seeking public feedback on a significant proposed reform that seeks to alter the way Council Tax is applied to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The current legislative framework categorizes each room within an HMO as a separate dwelling, resulting in unfairly high Council Tax charges for renters compared to single-dwelling residents in similar areas. This reform aims...

Residents near Ulster University's Magee campus in Londonderry are raising alarms over the rapid increase of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in their neighborhoods. Local advocacy group, Concerned Residents Around Magee (CRAM), is demanding that the local council impose restrictions on the number of HMOs, fearing a repeat of issues seen in the infamous 'Derry Holylands' area. These concerns surface as...

Kent has witnessed a significant surge in the number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), with nearly 1,900 such properties now spread across the region. HMOs cater to individuals from various households, offering shared facilities, making them a popular choice for many, particularly in urban areas. This article delves into the opportunities, challenges, and community perspectives surrounding these...

In an ambitious move to address housing needs in Stretford, Aamer Shah has proposed a significant development to convert a semi-detached house into a ten-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO). This planning application, submitted to Trafford Council, aims to create a community-oriented living environment equipped with shared amenities that reflect sustainable urban living. The plan comes with...