Property Market
Call for London to be made exempt from HIPS deemed ridiculous
Today’s call by the NAEA for London to be made exempt from HIPs has been deemed ridiculous by Mike Ockenden, Director General, Association of Home Information Packs Providers (AHIPP):
Potential home owners put off by neighbouring properties
People considering selling their home this summer can forget old tricks like putting fresh coffee on to brew and baking bread – the external appearance of their neighbour’s property could be the deciding factor that could make or break the deal for potential buyers.
Trust thy neighbour?
Over 90% of people in Plymouth and Southampton feel that community spirit in these cities is fast becoming a thing of the past, according to new research into the changing face of British communities by developer Miller Homes. In stark contrast, the survey also suggested that nearly the same percentage said that knowing your neighbours actually makes for a better quality of life.
Phased implementation of HIPS is a shambles, says NAEA
The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has renewed its dismay over the government’s plans for home information packs (HIPs) following the release of revised regulations today by the department of Communities and Local Government (CLG).
Good news for home buyers and sellers
Ruth Kelly has offered fresh reassurance for home buyers and sellers that the Government remains committed to the introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), starting with four bedroom homes from 1st August.
House price inflation rises 0.4%
The UK house price inflation rate rose from 10.9 per cent in March 2007 to 11.3 per cent in April 2007, according to the Communities and Local Government (CLG).
DIYers modernise home to add in excess of £5,000
The number of people undertaking home improvements to update and modernise their home has increased over the past twelve months, according to research by the Halifax.

Bring colour into your life with George Wimpey
Colour is an exciting and easy way to make an immediate impact in your home. And the most simple and inexpensive way to add colour is through the use of paint.
Rental demand outstrips supply
Demand for rented properties seriously outstripped supply and rent levels rose during the three months to the end of May according to the latest quarterly survey of ARLA Member Letting Agents. These results show the shortage of properties and the continuing need for investment in the private rented sector at all levels.

The definitive show for stylish living
The Daily Telegraph / House & Garden Fair 2007 is the UK's most prestigious event for interior and garden design. From bathrooms to bedrooms, gourmet food to garden furniture, the Fair brings you an unprecedented line up of exhibitors all carefully handpicked by House & Garden to ensure the highest quality products, most of which you will not find on the High Street.
‘Yappy index’ reveals nation’s next property hotspots
A new index, the Young Affluent Professionals Index (‘YAPPY’) - created by home insurer MORE TH>N, identifies areas of the country that are set to be the property hotspots of the future.
Internet generation drives e-planning services in North East
There will be a dramatic rise in homeowners, architects and builders using the online planning process in the North East this coming year, according to figures from the Communities and Local Government (CLG).
Prioritisation Plan for Unitary Bids
Plans to ensure that local government re-structuring will cut council tax and deliver the maximum service improvements for local communities under sound fiscal rules have been published today (7 June) by Local Government Minister Phil Woolas.
Tackling the house price crisis needs multiple solutions
The Royal Town Planning Institute, representing over 20,000 planners, has reacted strongly to press reports of the initial work of the National Housing and Planning Advice Unit, which is due to be launched today.

Housebuilder supports worthy charity
Proving that they are more than just a house builder, award winning Redrow Homes has helped raise over £15,000 for children's charity Naomi House.