Property Market
Brits drop DIY for DFY (Done For You)
As we enter the peak season for home improvements, Brits have revealed that their love affair with DIY may finally be beginning to wane, according to new research from Woolwich mortgages.
No radical revision, but further clarity welcomed
Hamptons International, international residential agents, welcomed the announcement on the Home Information Pack (HIPs) Regulations, although notes that no real changes have been made to what was already expected, following the earlier consultation paper.
Buy and sell in minutes
George Wimpey is giving visitors to three of their developments in South Wales on Saturday 14 April the chance to buy a new home and sell their old home in minutes.
Home information pack regulations confirm worst fears, says NAEA
The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) is dismayed to see the government pressing ahead with plans for home information packs (HIPs) despite the very real and obvious flaws, which continue to be highlighted by many stakeholders.
Power of wood - biomass plan to tackle climate change
A plan to boost the supply of environment-friendly woodfuel to cut greenhouse gases and produce enough energy to power 250,000 homes has been unveiled.
Developer merger is worrying sign of land famine
The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has renewed its concerns over UK land supply following the announcement of the merger between two of Britain’s largest housing developers Taylor Woodrow and George Wimpey.
Park Home 'Commission Rate' moves towards greater transparency
Proposals to strengthen the transparency of the payment mechanisms on park home sites in England and Wales have been announced by the Government.
Pre-sale DIY could prove costly waste of time and energy
Homeowners planning to use the coming bank holiday weekends to increase their chances of a good sale with a spot of home improvement could be wasting time and money - unless they are splashing out on making their home more energy efficient.
Plans for new energy ratings for public buildings
Public buildings like museums, galleries, government buildings and town halls must get energy ratings - like consumer friendly fridge ratings - and display them to the public from April 2008, the Government said today.
Government unveils new guidance on street design
New guidance on street design aims to breathe new life into communities by creating safe and sustainable environments for residents, Transport Minister Gillian Merron announced today.
Miller Homes: Exchange hassle for happiness
Buying a house can be a stressful time especially when the home of your dreams can slip through your fingers due to the timeframes and pitfalls, which can or may occur during the house buying process. For Miller Homes’ clients, though, it doesn’t have to be. Because, as part of their award-winning Customer Service, their Part Exchange Scheme 'LinkOne' can let you escape the house buying chain.
Dilapidations & repairs get the tax treatment
Repair obligations can represent a major overhead for tenants and landlords alike. However, the tax and accounting treatment concerning expenditure on property dilapidation work and repairs can represent some respite says commercial property specialist Underwoods, although is quite often misunderstood.
New house price gap narrows
The gap between the average price of new homes sold in Scotland and England has narrowed to just one per cent, according to figures released by NHBC, the new home warranty and insurance provider in the UK.
UKALA recommends Tenancy Deposit Solutions Ltd
The UK Association of Lettings Agents Ltd (UKALA) have recommended to their members that they use Tenancy Deposit Solutions Ltd (TDSL) as their form of protecting tenant deposits as now required under the Housing Act 2004. TDSL is the insurance-based scheme sponsored by the National Landlords Association (NLA) and administered by Hamilton Fraser Insurance (HFIS).
Planning a loft conversion? Remember Part B
Loft conversions are one of the most popular ways of increasing living space for growing families. Empty loft space provides the opportunity to create an extra, virtually self contained, living and sleeping area - perfect for teenagers who can enjoy a taste of independent bedsit life in their own homes. Every year a staggering number of homeowners extend their living area into their lofts, adding both an extra floor and extra value to their homes.