Latest news, advice, and insights for UK property professionals
HM Land Registry recorded 55 property hijacking cases between April 2025 and March 2026, highlighting risks for mortgage-free, rented, or vacant properties.
Accord Mortgages has introduced a dedicated larger loan service for residential cases of £1m or more, while Hope Capital has updated its residential mortgage range with pricing and operational changes.
Lendhub has provided a £1.22 million development finance facility for two four-bedroom semi-detached houses in Havering, London. The scheme is backed by full planning permission and unencumbered land.
The UK Government has announced reforms to devolve power over housing, planning, and regeneration to regional authorities. The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act is central to these changes.
UK housing sales agreed are down 7% year-on-year and buyer demand has fallen 15%, according to Zoopla. Three in five homes listed since January remain unsold.
Mortgage rates have fallen, with the lowest rates dropping from about 4.8% to 4.2% in recent months, according to This Is Money Mortgages.
Accord Mortgages has launched a new service for brokers handling residential loans of £1 million or more, offering specialist underwriter support throughout the process.
Santander, TSB and Barclays have announced mortgage rate reductions, with notable improvements for low-LTV and first-time buyer products. Fee structures and loan size limits have also been updated.
Royal London has revised its income protection policies, adding features such as support for serious child illness, post-redundancy grace periods, and sabbatical cover.
The government has indicated that fees from the PRS Database could be used to support council enforcement, as council powers are strengthened under the Renters’ Rights Act.
A panel discussion reported by Mortgage Solutions explored the ongoing need for LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion, and allyship in the UK property and mortgage industry.
Casey Vardy, BDM at Key Partnerships, supports adviser firms in later life lending and specialist advice services, working with national networks and focusing on relationship-building.