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AI Steer Property Group has acquired Duncan Yeardley and Sears estate agents, expanding its operations to nine branches across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. This deal, completed on 15 October 2026, follows Steer's previous acquisition of Tim Russ & Co in June 2024. The group now operates three estate agency brands with approximately 100 employees. Duncan Yeardley and Sears will retain their existing names, staff, and four offices, with no immediate changes for clients. The acquisition is part of Steer Property Group's strategy to expand across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

AI New research by TwentyEA, published in their Q3 2026 Property & Homemover Report, indicates that properties listed with multiple estate agents are significantly less likely to sell. Multi-agency listings were 46% less likely to sell, took 64% longer, and achieved 3% less than the original asking price compared to single, first-time instructions. Only 31% of multi-agency properties sold, versus 44.5% for switched agents and 53.5% for first-time listings. This analysis covered property instructions from early 2025 through 2026. For landlords: The six postcode areas with the highest proportions of multi-agency listings are in London, with North West London leading at 21.6%.

AI Advertised rents across Britain have reached record highs, with average rents outside London exceeding £1,400 for the first time, now at £1,418 after a 1.5% quarterly increase. However, annual growth has slowed to 2.4%, down from double-digit increases between 2021 and 2023. In contrast, London's average advertised rents hit a record £2,825 per month, with annual growth accelerating to 3.2%. Available rental properties in London fell by 9% and new listings by 7%, while tenant demand increased by 6%. The proportion of rental properties previously for sale has dropped from 17% to 15%, suggesting fewer properties are entering the rental market. The average two-year fixed buy-to-let mortgage rate has risen to 5.34%, up from 4.16% before the war in Iran. For landlords: London has seen a significant decrease in available rental properties and new listings, coupled with increased tenant demand, leading to accelerated annual rental growth.

AI Winkworth, the AIM-listed estate agency franchisor, has declared a third-quarter dividend of 3.3p per share. Shareholders registered by October 23rd will qualify for the payment, with shares trading ex-dividend from October 22nd. The payout is expected on November 20th. This announcement comes amidst an ongoing boardroom dispute with non-executive chairman Simon Agace, involving alleged breaches of confidentiality and directors' duties under the Companies Act 2006. Settlement talks are continuing, and an independent review of Winkworth's board and corporate governance is underway.

AI New research from Leaders Romans Group (LRG) indicates that younger buyers remain committed to homeownership, with 84% of respondents under 45 considering it essential, compared to 70% of those aged 65 and over. The survey, conducted among people looking to move, found 82% would prioritise buying their own home over an investment property. Saving for a deposit is a key challenge, with Nationwide estimating it takes four years in northern England versus nine years in London to save a 10% deposit. Stamp Duty also presents a regional disparity, with only 2.1% of North East first-time buyers facing it in the first half of 2026. The upcoming Autumn Budget on 28 October is expected to detail the Your First Home scheme, offering a 2.5% deposit and a 20% equity loan for eligible new-build purchases. For landlords: The strong desire for homeownership among younger demographics, despite affordability challenges, suggests continued demand for rental properties as individuals save for deposits, particularly in areas like London where saving takes longer.

AI The government is supporting Flood Re in developing new Flood Performance Certificates (FPCs), similar to EPCs, to provide a standardised assessment of a property's flood risk and resilience. These certificates will offer clearer information to homeowners, buyers, insurers, and mortgage lenders, potentially influencing property transactions, especially in flood-prone areas. Testing of FPCs will begin in England later this year, with further trials throughout 2027. The system will assess location, physical characteristics, and existing flood protection measures, also identifying potential improvements. The government hopes FPCs will encourage investment in flood protection and that insurers and lenders will recognise these improvements. For landlords: The government has not announced whether FPCs will be mandatory for lettings.

Why estate agency owners need to start planning for 2027 now - before the market does it for them

AI Almost seven in ten UK estate and letting agents, specifically 69% of 250 surveyed by property software provider Alto, regularly use artificial intelligence. However, 85% use it for four tasks or fewer, primarily writing property descriptions (67%) and emails (53%). More advanced users, representing 20% of agents, save around five hours per person weekly, compared to 1.3 hours for those using AI for basic tasks. Leadership decisions drive greater AI integration, with 60% of advanced users crediting management. Agents anticipate increased AI use in 2027 for administration (58%) and lead response (39%), despite concerns about customer service and accuracy.

Key property industry appointments

AI Research by Zoopla in October 2026 indicates that 51% of two and three-bedroom houses in Britain are now affordable for average-income households, up from 45% a year prior. An average household earning £53,500 can afford a property up to £301,000, assuming a 4.5 times income mortgage and 20% deposit. Despite this, sales agreed are 9% below last year's levels, as average mortgage rates have risen above 5% from around 4% at the start of the year. While affordability has improved most in southern England, London remains the least affordable region, with only 0.5% of two and three-bedroom houses below the £301,000 threshold, and an average asking price of £542,500. For landlords: The continued high average asking price for two and three-bedroom houses in London, at £542,500, and the limited affordability for average-income households, means that the sales market for these property types in the capital remains challenging for potential owner-occupiers.

AI Research by estate agency LRG indicates that younger generations in the UK still strongly value home ownership. The analysis shows 84% of under-45s consider owning a home essential, compared to 70% of over-65s. When asked what they would buy first, 82% of all respondents chose a home to live in, with only 6% opting for a rental property. Over half (55%) would prioritise saving a deposit, even if it meant making sacrifices. Further details on the Government's new Your First Home scheme are expected in the upcoming Budget.

AI Zoopla data indicates that 51% of two and three-bedroom houses are now affordable for households earning the average combined income of £53,500, based on a £301,000 asking price threshold. This represents an increase from 45% a year prior, with 84,300 houses now within reach due to incomes rising faster than house prices. Improvements were most significant in southern and eastern England, with the South West seeing a 9.8 percentage point jump to 47% and the East of England rising 9.2 percentage points to 39%. However, sales agreed are down 9% year-on-year, attributed to higher mortgage rates impacting buyer confidence. London has fewer than 100 such affordable properties.

AI Victoria Steele, owner of eHomes in Swaffham, Norfolk, received a 12-month suspended prison sentence and 200 hours of community work for fraud offences. Steele, 51, admitted to 19 offences affecting 20 victims, resulting in losses of £48,858. The fraud, which occurred over 15 years until 2019, involved withholding tenant deposits and failing to pass rental payments to landlords. Norfolk Crown Court heard that police have initiated Proceeds of Crime Act action, with a compensation hearing scheduled for February next year.

AI Rightmove data indicates that average advertised rents outside London reached a new record of £1,418 per calendar month, a 1.5% quarterly increase, with annual growth at 2.4%. London also saw a new average advertised rent of £2,825 per calendar month, with annual growth accelerating to 3.2%. Nationally, available rental homes and renter demand are both down 2% annually, but in London, available listings are down 9%, new listings down 7%, and demand is up 6% compared to a year ago. The proportion of homes for sale that were previously for rent is stable at 13%, while homes to rent that were previously for sale decreased from 17% to 15%. For landlords: London experienced a larger squeeze in the rental market, with a significant decrease in available rental listings and an increase in renter demand.

AI The proportion of landlords using letting agents has reached a two-year high, with two-thirds now employing an agent for some or all letting aspects, according to Pegasus Insight's Landlord Trends research. This figure is up from 61% in Q1 and 62% a year ago, driven by increased demand for full property management services, which now account for a quarter of rental properties, a five-percentage-point rise from the previous quarter. The trend reflects the growing complexity of the regulatory environment, including the Renters’ Rights Act and compliance changes. Landlords managing properties themselves spend an average of 51 hours monthly, compared to 11 hours for those with full management. For landlords: The increasing use of letting agents for full property management services indicates a growing reliance on professional support to navigate regulatory changes and reduce time commitments.

AI Dwelly has completed its eleventh acquisition of 2026, purchasing Kent-based lettings agency Helen Breeze Property Management. This deal adds 400 fully managed properties to Dwelly's portfolio, bringing its total to approximately 15,665 properties under management, with an expectation to exceed 16,000 by the end of October. Helen Breeze Property Management, founded in 1988, operates in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, and surrounding areas. Partners Hilary Breeze and Diane Hopkins are selling the business but will remain for a transition period. This acquisition reflects Dwelly's strategy amid increased regulation and rising operating costs in the private rented sector.

AI The UK property market is experiencing a 12-year high in available homes for sale, leading to increased competition among sellers. Buyer demand is 9% lower than last year, primarily due to high mortgage costs impacting affordability. Transactions are taking longer, increasing the risk of sales collapsing. Propertymark reports 75 prospective buyers per branch and 46 properties available, with 83% of agents noting properties selling below asking price. TwentyCi data indicates average agreed prices are 96% to 97% of marketing prices, a 3% to 4% discount.

AI The Bank of England's Chief Economist, Huw Pill, has expressed scepticism regarding market predictions of four consecutive interest rate rises. While supporting an increase in the Bank Rate from 3.75% to 4%, Pill stated he doubts the likelihood of four increases over the next year, which would push the rate to 4.75%. He believes early and decisive action on rates is crucial to manage inflation. The next Monetary Policy Committee meeting announcement is scheduled for November 5th.

Business acquisition consultant offers his insights into how independent estate agency owners can take on the big bluechips and put in winning buying bids for competitors.

Letter to the Mayor of Tees Valley from the Minister for Local Government Devolution and Regional Growth, informing them of the appointment of a Best Value Inspector in relation to the authority.

Letter to the Chief Executive of Tees Valley Combined Authority, informing them of the appointment of a Best Value Inspector in relation to the authority.

Letter appointing Best Value Inspector in relation to Tees Valley Combined Authority.

AI Bedford Borough Council's Chief Executive, Laura Church, received a letter on 15 October 2026 from James Blythe, Deputy Director for Local Government Stewardship and Interventions. This letter outlines a proposed statutory intervention package for the council under section 15 of the Local Government Act 1999, including the appointment of Commissioners. The intervention follows findings from the Inspectors’ Best Value Inspection report, also published on 15 October 2026. Representations on the proposal are invited until 28 October 2026, after which ministers will make a decision.

AI The Secretary of State is considering extending the intervention at Slough Borough Council until 30 November 2029. This follows the publication of the Commissioners’ eighth report and an external review. The Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, Jim McMahon OBE MP, informed the Leader of Slough Borough Council of this potential extension, which would be enacted under section 15 of the Local Government Act 1999. Slough Borough Council has until 28 October 2026 to make representations regarding the proposed new Directions.

AI Slough Borough Council faces an extended statutory intervention until 30 November 2029. Jim McMahon OBE MP, Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, responded to the Commissioners’ eighth report, indicating the Secretary of State's intention to issue new Directions under section 15 of the Local Government Act 1999. This extends the period of intervention for the Council.

AI The government confirmed on 15 October that a Best Value Inspection will be undertaken at Tees Valley Combined Authority. This follows ongoing ministerial concerns regarding the authority's financial sustainability, management, leadership, and governance, despite a non-statutory Best Value Notice issued in April 2025 and an independent review in January 2024 that made 26 recommendations. Laura Shoaf CBE has been appointed lead inspector, with a report due to Ministers by March 2027, to assess the authority's compliance with its Best Value Duty under the Local Government Act 1999.

AI A "mansion tax" on properties valued at £2 million or higher is set to be introduced from April 2028, initially announced by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves. There was speculation that current Chancellor John Healey might lower the threshold to £1.5 million, but this is reportedly being reconsidered due to concerns from Labour MPs about the impact on London families. The government anticipates the surcharge will generate over £400 million by 2031, affecting less than one per cent of properties nationwide. However, the tax will disproportionately affect London, which accounted for two-thirds of qualifying transactions last year. Owners of properties valued above £2 million (in 2026 prices) by the Valuation Office will face an annual surcharge. For landlords: The mansion tax will apply to properties valued at £2 million or more, with a significant impact on London property owners.

AI Concerns have been raised that Labour’s new ‘Your First Home’ scheme, a revived Help to Buy initiative, may exclude many first-time buyers in London. The scheme offers a 20% equity loan for new-build properties with a 2.5% minimum deposit and an initial interest-free period. However, the household income cap for London applicants is £90,000, which critics argue does not account for the capital's higher salaries and property prices. This threshold could prevent professionals like teachers, nurses, and police officers, whose average salaries are around £45,000-£48,000, from qualifying for assistance.

AI Average asking rents in London have reached a new record high of £2,825 per calendar month, according to Rightmove. This represents an annual rental growth of 3.2% in the capital, outpacing the 2.4% growth seen outside London. The increase is attributed to a significant supply squeeze, with available rental homes in London down 9% year-on-year, while renter demand has risen by 6%. For landlords: This indicates continued strong demand and rising rental values in the London market.

AI Propertymark is urging the UK Government to re-link Local Housing Allowance (LHA) to market rents, citing new evidence from Independent Age that 69% of pension-age private renters receiving Housing Benefit under LHA faced a rent gap in March 2026. This is up from 65% a year prior, with 60% cutting essentials like heating (25%) and food (14%) to afford rent. Propertymark advocates for LHA rates to cover at least the cheapest 30% of local rents, with annual increases, to be implemented at the Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026. The Mayor of London has also backed calls to lift the LHA freeze. For landlords: Inadequate LHA rates increase the risk of arrears and tenancy breakdown for welfare-dependent tenants across the UK.

AI John Griffin, founder of Addison Lee, has sold his six-bedroom mansion on Hanover Terrace, overlooking Regent's Park, for £11.5 million. This sale represents a loss of £9.2 million from the £20.7 million he paid for the property in 2013. The Regency-era house, designed by John Nash, was previously listed in 2021 for £32 million before being re-listed this year at £13.5 million. The sale follows a recent tax residency dispute between Mr Griffin and HMRC. For landlords: This transaction involves a high-value residential property in a prime London location.

AI Flood Re is piloting new Flood Performance Certificates (FPCs) across England, starting in flood-risk areas this year and expanding through 2027. These certificates will provide standardised information on a property's flood risk and resilience, similar to Energy Performance Certificates. The FPCs will offer a 'Flood Performance Rating' based on factors like exposure and resistance, drawing on existing 'Check Your Flood Risk' data. The initiative aims to encourage practical resilience measures and may lead to tenants requesting FPC copies. Separately, from April 2027, flood insurance premiums for contents cover in Council Tax Bands A and B will be halved to £25. For landlords: New Flood Performance Certificates will be piloted in England, providing information on flood risk and resilience for rental properties.

AI Asking rents in the UK's 21 largest towns and cities have risen by 6% in the three months since the Renters Rights Act (RRA) was implemented, according to a Ringley Group study. This follows a 5.6% increase in the first two months post-implementation. Concurrently, an estimated 35% of private landlords have sold or attempted to sell properties in the last year, contributing to a projected shrinkage of the English private rented sector by approximately 354,000 homes in the three years to May 2025. Ringley Group attributes these trends, in part, to unintended consequences of the RRA and calls for targeted SDLT support in the upcoming October 28 Budget.

AI Analysis of Land Registry and ONS data by Brickview shows that over the past decade, rents for flats and maisonettes in England and Wales have increased more rapidly than purchase prices. The North West experienced the highest rent growth at 55.2%, while London was the only region to see flat prices decline by 6.9%, yet rents still rose by 36.5%. The North East now has the highest gross yield at 6.68%, up from 5.15% a decade ago. This trend indicates flats are more cash-generative for landlords and investors. For landlords: London flat rents increased by 36.5% over the last decade, despite a 6.9% decline in flat purchase prices.

AI A landlord, Said Moussef, was ordered to pay over £3,500 after admitting six charges at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court. The prosecution followed a March 2026 complaint, revealing he had re-let first and second-floor flats in October and November 2025 despite existing Prohibition Orders. The property had hazards including an inadequate fire alarm and damp, and the landlord failed to register the property or hold the required licence under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014. Mr Moussef was fined £1,520 for Rent Smart Wales offences, £476 for Prohibition Order breaches, plus £750 costs and a £763 victim surcharge, totalling £3,509.

AI Prime rents in Prime Central London (PCL) have increased by 1.9% year-on-year, with outer London seeing a 2.9% rise, according to Savills. PCL experienced its strongest quarterly rental growth in two years. The Renters Rights Act (RRA) is a major concern for landlords, particularly affecting properties with annual rents below £100,000, where stock reduction has intensified tenant competition. Prime regional markets saw 0.3% quarterly growth, while London's outer commuter belt rents are 33% higher than Q1 2020. For landlords: The Renters Rights Act is impacting rental supply and growth, particularly for properties with annual rents below £100,000 in London.

AI LonRes is hosting a free webinar on Wednesday 28 October at 10am to demonstrate how estate agents can utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline administration and generate new business leads. The property data platform has partnered with Ian Preston, CEO of Greenhouse OS, for the hour-long session, titled "AI and Estate Agency: Practical Insights for Real Impact." The webinar is open to LonRes members and FCS Compliance clients and will cover practical AI applications, including automating admin, improving client outreach, and capturing out-of-hours enquiries. A follow-up training session will also be offered.

AI Estate agents and other property professionals are encouraged to participate in the latest Property Industry Lunch Break on Friday, October 23. Organised by The Boys Club, a wellbeing community for men in property, the initiative promotes taking time out for an informal lunch with colleagues or contacts. This event, which previously ran in March and June, aims to foster connections away from formal settings and the busy autumn awards season. Participants simply arrange their own lunch, with no tickets or speeches, and can share photos using #PropertyIndustryLunchBreak.

AI Propertymark has advised letting agents that First-tier Tribunals require robust evidence to approve rent increases, following an examination of decisions from August and September in Leeds, Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, and London. The trade body highlighted cases where insufficient detail led to proposed increases being rejected, or even rents being set below current levels, as seen in Manchester. Tribunals prioritise agreed rents over advertised prices and require comprehensive property descriptions, including floor area, layout, condition, and services. In one London case, a landlord's proposed increase from £3,102.82 to £3,180 for a two-bedroom flat at Skylark Point was approved because their evidence of nine agreed rents in the same development between April and June 2026 was deemed more persuasive than the tenant's reliance on advertised prices. For landlords: Tribunals will scrutinise evidence for rent increases, favouring agreed rents for comparable properties over advertised prices, and requiring detailed property descriptions and condition reports.

AI The HomeLet Rental Index for September 2026 shows UK average monthly rents reached a new record of £1,387, a 0.4% increase from August and 3.3% higher than September 2025. Excluding Greater London, the average rent was £1,176, a 0.3% monthly decrease but 3.1% up annually. Greater London recorded the highest average rents at £2,272, a 1.5% rise from August and 3.3% annually. Regional trends varied, with Northern Ireland seeing the largest monthly increase at 2.2%. Tenants across the UK now spend an average of 32.1% of their income on rent. For landlords: Average rents in Greater London increased by 1.5% month-on-month to £2,272 in September 2026.

Isn't it about time you had lunch with a colleague or a rival in the industry?

Property data consultancy LonRes is presenting an-hour long webinar on the benefits of AI to agents.

AI REACH UK, supported by Propertymark, has opened applications for its 2027 programme, seeking PropTech businesses. The programme targets innovations in areas such as AI, automation, compliance, property management, and energy efficiency, aiming to address everyday issues for agents. Selected applicants will gain access to property professionals, industry leaders, investors, and potential customers through REACH UK's network. The initiative focuses on technology that reduces administration, improves compliance, enhances data utilisation, and improves customer and tenant experiences.

AI Campions Group is discontinuing the Madison Brook brand across five former estate agency operations following its acquisition of Madison Brook's residential agency business in April 2026. The affected offices and teams in Chiswick, Lewisham, Royal Docks, Hampton Hill, and Twickenham are being integrated into Campions' Chestertons and Chase Buchanan brands. Three operations, including Lewisham and Royal Docks from 29 September, and Chiswick in May, are joining Chestertons, expanding its network of over 35 London offices. The Hampton Hill operation joined Chase Buchanan on 6 October, and Twickenham integrated into Chase Buchanan in May. For landlords: The estate agencies handling properties in Chiswick, Lewisham, Royal Docks, Hampton Hill, and Twickenham previously operating under Madison Brook are now part of Chestertons or Chase Buchanan.

AI Property investors and buy-to-let landlords in the UK could still face increased capital gains tax (CGT) bills despite reports that the Chancellor has ruled out a major hike. While aligning CGT with income tax (which would mean 40% for higher-rate taxpayers, up from the current 24% on residential property) is reportedly off the table, a smaller increase remains a possibility ahead of the 28 October Budget. This uncertainty affects landlords and second-home owners considering selling investment properties, as even a modest rise could impact financial returns and influence sale timing. The government, facing pressure to raise revenue, has pledged not to increase other major taxes. For landlords: a potential increase in capital gains tax on residential property sales is possible following the 28 October Budget.

AI Dwelly completed its eleventh acquisition of 2026 on 14 October, purchasing Kent-based Helen Breeze Property Management. This deal adds 400 fully managed properties, bringing Dwelly's total portfolio to approximately 15,665, with expectations to exceed 16,000 by the end of October. Helen Breeze Property Management, established in 1988, operates in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, and Tunbridge Wells. Partners Hilary Breeze and Diane Hopkins will remain during a transition period before retiring. Dwelly's expansion includes agencies in London, the Midlands, and northern and southern England, alongside its first international acquisition. For landlords: This acquisition by Dwelly includes agencies in London.

AI In August, 86% of properties sold below asking price, according to Propertymark figures, indicating a shift in the housing market towards buyers. Only 9% of properties achieved their asking price, as buyer caution increased and viewings declined. The average number of prospective buyers registering with Propertymark branches fell to 69, while available homes for sale rose to 51 per branch. Agreed sales edged up to 9.5 per branch, but almost 32% of sales took over 17 weeks to exchange contracts. For landlords: The lettings market saw tenant demand outstrip supply, with 121 prospective tenants per branch and 12.86 rental properties available in August.

AI Average UK rents reached a new record high of £1,387 in September, a 0.4% increase from August and 3.3% higher than September 2025, according to the HomeLet Rental Index. This national rise occurred despite falls in eight of the 12 monitored regions. London significantly influenced the monthly increase, with average rents climbing 1.5% to £2,272, up from £2,238 in August, and 3.3% higher year-on-year. Outside London, average rents decreased by 0.3% to £1,176, though they remained 3.1% higher annually. For landlords: Average rents in London increased by 1.5% in September to £2,272.

AI Buyer demand across England decreased in the third quarter of 2026, with eXp UK research showing a 1.6 percentage point decline between July and September. This means 39.8% of listed homes secured a buyer, down from 41.4% in the previous quarter and 3.8 percentage points lower than a year prior. Warwickshire saw the sharpest quarterly fall at 3.6 points, while the City of London recorded a 2.3-point increase. The slowdown is attributed to affordability pressures and weaker buyer confidence, extending beyond pre-Autumn Budget uncertainty. For landlords: The City of London experienced an increase in buyer demand during the third quarter of 2026.

AI The use of letting agents for rental properties in the UK has reached a two-year high, with 66% of properties now managed by agents, according to Pegasus Insight research published on 14 October 2026. This is an increase from 61% in Q1 2026 and 62% a year prior. Demand for full property management services saw the largest rise, now accounting for 25% of rental properties, up from 20% in the previous quarter. The shift is attributed to increased regulatory and compliance demands, with landlords spending significantly less time on management when using full services. For landlords: The increasing use of letting agents for property management across the UK indicates a growing trend towards professional support in response to evolving regulatory landscapes.

AI A landlord in New Ferry, Wirral, Adam Evans, was fined £2,400 and ordered to pay £5,000 in prosecution costs at Wirral Magistrates’ Court on 8 October. This was for failing to conduct annual gas safety checks at his property on Salisbury Drive for eight years, from 2016 until October 2024, while a mother and her five children resided there. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated after Wirral Borough Council raised concerns, finding Evans in breach of Regulation 36(3) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. The case highlights the consequences of neglecting mandatory gas safety obligations. For landlords: This case demonstrates the legal and financial repercussions of failing to comply with gas safety regulations.

AI Senior figures from Connells, Foxtons, and OnTheMarket are confirmed to speak at the EA Masters conference on 3 November. The event will address key challenges for estate and letting agents, including falling lettings margins, artificial intelligence, and lengthy property transactions. Speakers will include Chris Rosindale from Connells Group, Guy Gittins from Foxtons, and Jason Tebb from OnTheMarket UK and Europe. The conference will also feature international industry figures and will host the Best Estate Agent Guide and Best Conveyancer Guide awards, with the latest Guide published on 4 November.

AI Homebuyer demand in England declined by 1.6% in the three months from July to September, according to EXP UK data, following a 1.1% drop in the previous quarter. Overall sales demand reached 39.8%, representing an annual decrease of 3.8%. Only five counties saw positive growth, with the City of London experiencing a 2.3% rise. This aligns with the RICS survey showing new buyer enquiries fell to -22% in September from -18% in August. The largest quarterly drops included Warwickshire at 3.6% and Bristol at 3.5%. For landlords: Weakening homebuyer demand may affect the availability of properties for sale, potentially influencing tenant decisions regarding purchasing their own homes.

AI A new study by shared living platform COHO, based on responses from 5,145 UK HMO tenants, reveals that 42% move into shared accommodation with little or no information about future housemates. This lack of transparency leads to safety concerns, with 21% of tenants reporting feeling unsafe due to a housemate, rising to 27% for those aged 45 and above. The report highlights that 60% of tenants wish for more information about prospective housemates, and 53% desire greater input on who joins their household. Across England and Wales, there are 482,788 HMOs housing over 2 million people. For landlords: The findings suggest a tenant demand for greater transparency and compatibility in HMOs.

AI Rightmove has integrated its AI-powered comparison assistant, "Ask Rightmove," directly into property search results pages. This new tool, building on previous AI features launched in February and July, allows users to compare multiple properties side-by-side and ask conversational questions about listings and local areas. The feature leverages data from agents, Rightmove's own extensive database, Google Maps, Experian for schools, and Land Registry. Initial rollout to a subset of users has shown increased engagement, with users spending 40% longer on Rightmove, saving over twice as many properties, and sending approximately twice as many leads to agents by June 30. For landlords: The enhanced search functionality may lead to more informed and engaged prospective tenants, potentially increasing the quality and quantity of leads sent to letting agents.

AI Will Taylor, the owner of Martin & Co Huddersfield, has completed his fourth acquisition by purchasing ADM Residential, an independent estate and lettings agency. This acquisition integrates ADM Residential's portfolio into the existing Huddersfield operation, which Taylor has run since 2009. The combined business now has a team of 12 staff, aiming to provide enhanced support and a faster service to landlords, vendors, tenants, and customers in the Huddersfield area. The focus is on ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining service continuity for ADM Residential's clients.

AI A new software platform for estate and letting agents, TerraSuite, launched on October 6th, developed by London-based Havenswift Hosting. It offers a free version with unlimited property listings for sale, to let, and short lets, including an agency website with search functions and enquiry forms. This free package is a fully functional, unlimited-time product, not a trial. Paid packages include additional back-office features like a viewings diary, automated applicant matching, and portal feeds. The company aims to remove common listing quantity restrictions for agents.

AI Chancellor John Healey is not expected to significantly increase Capital Gains Tax (CGT) in his upcoming Budget. This follows calls from some government members to align CGT rates with Income Tax, which would impact property owners selling assets. Currently, the highest CGT rate is 24%, compared to a 45% Income Tax rate for wealthy individuals. Healey may consider a minor CGT increase to prevent investors from leaving Britain, as reported by the Financial Times. Earlier, Wes Streeting proposed a Wealth Tax targeting landlords, arguing against the disparity between Income Tax and CGT rates. Last year, Rachel Reeves rejected a Wealth Tax on assets over £10 million due to capital flight concerns, but did increase Income Tax on rental income for landlords. For landlords: The article indicates that the Chancellor is unlikely to implement a large increase in Capital Gains Tax.

AI The average two-year fixed-rate mortgage is nearing 6%, reaching 5.97% according to Moneyfacts, an increase from 5.68% a month prior. The last time this average was at or above 6% was on 7th December 2023, at 6.01%. The average five-year fixed-rate mortgage, which hit 6% earlier this month, has since slightly decreased to 5.99%, up from 5.73% a month ago. For buy-to-let mortgages, the average two-year rate is 5.63%, and the average five-year rate is 6.01%. There are 5,192 buy-to-let mortgage products available. For landlords: The average two-year buy-to-let mortgage rate is 5.63%, and the average five-year buy-to-let mortgage rate is 6.01%.

AI The upcoming "Your First Home" scheme, a revived Help to Buy initiative, could slow the housing market before its launch, according to housebuilder Bellway. Chancellor John Healey is expected to announce further details this month for the scheme, which will offer a Government equity loan for 2% deposits on new-builds for first-time buyers, subject to regional price and income caps. Bellway CEO Jason Honeyman expressed concern that the period before the scheme's launch might delay purchasing decisions, despite its potential to support first-time buyers. Bellway reported 9,695 housing completions in 2025 at an average price of £324,404, with revenue up 13.6% to £3.1 billion.