Property Market

Tougher planning controls needed for new homes says the ABI

Tougher planning controls are needed if flood insurance is to remain widely available for new homes, the ABI (Association of British Insurers) said today.

Record fall in owner-occupation in England

The number of owner-occupied households in England fell by 83,000 from 14.621 million in 2006 to 14.538 million in 2007, according to government figures.

January price balance continues downward trend

The balance of surveyors reporting house price falls increased again in January, says the latest RICS’ UK housing market survey.

Charity Commission raises housing bill concerns

The Charity Commission, the independent regulator for charities in England and Wales, has voiced concerns that proposals in the Housing and Regeneration Bill could have serious implications for charitable housing associations.

Dreams come true for buyers in East Midlands

With house prices still on the increase across the East Midlands, and the average regional price now standing at £163,409, it’s not surprising that buyers seeking a home in the region are struggling to secure their dream property.

Online incentives from Barratt Homes

Prospective buyers can get a £1,000 discount off the price of their new home by logging onto Barratt’s website and requesting a brochure for a new development.

Cherry pick the home of your dreams with Persimmon

Sudbury househunters are wising up to the benefits of buying a house off plan, says Persimmon Homes Anglia as the company is seeing a number of its properties at its Stour Croft development being snapped up by eager purchasers.

Shortage of large properties is driving the lettings market

A shortage of large houses for sale during 2007 was the driving force behind the growth in the number of substantial houses let on a long term basis - that is for leases of an initial term of two to five years, some with options to extend for a further similar period.

Rental review should aim for balanced protection

The government has launched an independent review of the private rented sector in England, which it hopes will improve conditions for landlords and tenants.

There’s still time to halve your mortgage

Home-buyers have just a few days left to halve their mortgage for the next two years – simply by reserving a brand new property from George Wimpey South Midlands.

Perspective needed over repossession figures

Following the release of the latest repossession figures by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) expresses its regret over the reported rise, but urges a sense of perspective on the market as a whole.