News

In recent years, the concept of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has transformed the residential landscape within Kent, reflecting a broader trend observed throughout the UK. With nearly 2,000 HMOs in the county alone, these properties are indicative of a rising demand for shared living arrangements, offering a solution for diverse populations, from students to professionals. The phenomenon, while...

In a move that could dramatically reshape the property landscape in England, significant council tax hikes for second homes are slated to take effect in April2025. With many local authorities poised to implement increases that may double the current rates, the average council tax bill for these properties could surge from approximately £2,171 to £4,342 annually. This legislative change, aimed at...

In a significant initiative to enhance housing safety and compliance, Camden Council has intensified its efforts against unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within the borough. A recent investigation revealed that numerous private landlords are neglecting their legal obligations to secure necessary licenses for their properties, prompting the council’s housing scrutiny committee to reassess...

As investors seek to diversify their portfolios in the current economic climate, the debate between real estate and the stock market as viable investment options has gained renewed significance. This article examines the historical performance, inherent costs, and tax implications of each investment avenue, aiming to provide insights that can guide decision-making for potential investors in November2024....

The luxury property market in the UK’s commuter belt is presently experiencing notable shifts, highlighting the possible conclusion of the post-pandemic real estate surge. Reports reveal that homeowners are compromising on their expectations, accepting offers that average around £150,000 lower than their initial asking prices. This trend points toward a broader transformation in market dynamics,...

The commercial real estate (CRE) landscape is undergoing a paradigm shift as industry leaders begin to assess the impacts of recent economic fluctuations and regulatory changes. According to a recent report from Deloitte Insights, titled '2025 Commercial Real Estate Outlook', organizations in the sector are urged to innovate and adapt in order to not only confront ongoing challenges but also to seize...

The UK housing market has shown positive early signs in 2025, with a notable uptick in new listings and average property prices, signalling a potential recovery. Recent data released by Rightmove indicates an 11% increase in the number of homes available for sale compared to the previous year, complemented by a 1.7% rise in the average property price, which now stands at £366,189 — the largest price...

In recent weeks, residents in East Durham have united in a grassroots campaign aimed at tightening regulations surrounding houses in multiple occupations (HMOs). Spearheaded by a petition with 153 signatures, the movement seeks to prompt Durham County Council to take more proactive measures in regulating the conversion of family homes into HMOs, amid rising concerns of community impacts, including...

In an ambitious move to address housing demands in Stretford, Aamer Shah of Blackburn, Lancashire, has proposed the transformation of a two-bedroom semi-detached house on Barton Road into a 10-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO). This planning application has been submitted to Trafford Council and includes comprehensive strategies to mitigate potential challenges such as noise and anti-social...

In a striking display of dissent, Shelter Scotland is pressing for the resignation of the leadership of the City of Edinburgh Council over its recent controversial handling of homelessness. The charity has voiced serious concerns regarding the council's plans to utilize unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to address the city's escalating homelessness crisis, urging that these measures not only...