July 2026
Bank of England Base Rate: Where Are We in 2026?
After a series of cautious cuts from the 2024 peak, the base rate sits at 4.00% as of mid-2026. Markets are pricing in one or two further cuts before year-end, providing some relief on tracker and variable mortgages.
June 2025
Renters' Rights Act 2025 — Now in Force
The Renters' Rights Act received Royal Assent in March 2025 and came fully into force in June 2025. Section 21 no-fault evictions are abolished. All tenancies are now periodic. Landlords must use Section 8 grounds to recover possession.
2026
EPC C Deadline 2030 — What Landlords Must Do Now
Rental properties must achieve an EPC C rating by 2030 or risk not being legally lettable. The government confirmed no extensions. Average upgrade cost: £6,500–£15,000 depending on current rating.
July 2026
UK House Prices: Annual Growth of 3.4% in Mid-2026
ONS data shows continued modest growth driven by easing mortgage rates, persistent supply shortage, and strong rental demand in the Midlands. Birmingham and Nottingham outperforming national averages.
October 2024
CGT on Residential Property: New Rates Since October 2024
Capital gains tax rates on residential property changed in the October 2024 Budget. The higher rate fell from 28% to 24%; the basic rate stays at 18%. The change applies to disposals from 30 October 2024.
April 2025
First-Time Buyer SDLT Relief: £300,000 Threshold from April 2025
The temporary SDLT nil-rate threshold of £425,000 for first-time buyers ended on 31 March 2025. From 1 April 2025, the threshold reverted to £300,000 (with a cap of £500,000 for the relief to apply at all). First-time buyers should check their stamp duty using the calculator.
October 2025
Stamp Duty Surcharge at 5% — One Year On
The additional property surcharge rose from 3% to 5% in October 2024 for second homes and buy-to-let purchases. Deal volumes dropped sharply in Q4 2024 but have since stabilised as investors adjust underwriting models.
2025
PRS Ombudsman Registration Now Mandatory
All private landlords in England are required to join the new Private Rented Sector (PRS) Ombudsman under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Failure to register is a criminal offence and can result in a fine of up to £5,000.