Andy Burnham, Labour leadership frontrunner, is backing a 0.48% land value tax to replace council tax and stamp duty. This guide explains what a land value tax is, who pays more and who pays less, and the timeline to any change.
A portfolio landlord owns four or more rental properties. This guide covers how to build a portfolio, finance it, manage tax efficiency, and comply with PRA mortgage rules and the Renters Rights Act 2025.
The Renters Rights Act 2025 abolished Section 21 no-fault evictions, replaced fixed-term tenancies with periodic tenancies, and strengthened tenant protections. This guide covers what changed and when.
Portfolio landlords with four or more mortgaged buy-to-let properties face stricter PRA underwriting since 2017. This guide explains the rules, which lenders accept portfolio landlords and how to structure applications.
FCA consultation CP26/18 proposes flexibility for self-employed borrowers, older homeowners and those with past credit issues. Consultation closes 28 July 2026. What the proposed changes mean in practice.
The Mortgage Works cuts BTL switcher rates by up to 0.25pp from 27 June 2026. Five-year fix at 4.44% (65% LTV, £1,495 fee). Third rate cut in a month.
Scotland's First Home Fund provides a £10,000 equity loan for first-time buyers. Critics say it falls short in Edinburgh where a 5% deposit is.
A Labour MP blames high private rents for the size of the welfare budget, with housing benefit costing ~£30bn per year. LHA covers only the cheapest.
The FCA has proposed replacing the current mortgage stress test with a flexible lender-set framework. LTI limits from the Bank of England remain.
Lifetime mortgage interest compounds — £100,000 at 5.5% becomes £291,000 after 20 years. Affects inheritance and benefits. Regulated advice required.
Section 21 abolished. EPC C required from 2028. Mortgage interest restricted to 20% relief. Higher rate taxpayers can make a loss on leveraged BTL.
Self-build mortgages release funds in stages. Budget for CIL, VAT reclaim and a 15-20% contingency on top of build cost. Planning alone takes months.
Commercial mortgages are unregulated. Directors almost always sign a personal guarantee. Max LTV is 70%. Prepare 3 years of accounts before applying.
FHL tax abolished April 2025. Mortgage interest now restricted. Planning and licensing tightened. Model the new tax position before buying a holiday let.
Bridging loans cost 0.4-1.5% per month. Without a confirmed exit strategy the lender can appoint a receiver and force a sale. Know the total cost first.
The deposit is only part of the cost. Surveys, solicitor fees and mortgage costs add £8,000-£25,000 on top. Here is the full breakdown.
Quick buy operators targeting tenanted properties. Tenants have strong rights when a property is sold. No valid notice means no obligation to leave.
Renters Reform Act and EPC requirements are creating insurance gaps in standard buy-to-let policies. Landlords should check coverage before 2028 deadlines.
FCA frames mortgage reform as better outcomes under Consumer Duty. Creditworthy borrowers currently excluded. Responsible lending rules remain in force.
CMA investigates Ryanair over charges to parents wanting to sit with children. Examining whether the practice breaches consumer protection law.
FCA consults on mortgage affordability reforms to help first-time buyers and self-employed. Stress test rules under review. Changes are not yet in force.
HMRC urges new parents to claim Child Benefit immediately. Claims backdate three months only. High earners should still claim to protect NI credits.
Buying leasehold means buying the right to occupy a property for a fixed term, not the land or building itself. Ground rent, service charges and major work
Tenancy agreements can include clauses that are unenforceable under UK law but which landlords attempt to enforce anyway. Understanding which clauses are v
Equity release compounds interest on the outstanding loan for the lifetime of the arrangement, potentially doubling or tripling the debt over 15-25 years.
Selling a leasehold flat requires full disclosure of ground rent terms, service charges, major works and any management disputes. Problematic ground rent c
Exchange of contracts creates a legally binding obligation to buy or sell the property. Pulling out after exchange means losing the deposit (typically 10%)
Standard home insurance does not cover rental properties. Landlord insurance provides buildings cover, liability and loss of rent protection.
A fixed rate mortgage locks your interest rate but automatically reverts to the SVR at the end of the fix.
A second charge mortgage puts your home at risk and ranks behind your existing mortgage. Rates are higher than first charge mortgages.
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