Five winter home features that could add £20,000 to your property value

If your home comes into its own when frost bites and the woodburner is glowing, you may be sitting on a seasonal advantage. Our data shows that colder weather can give a winter-ready home a noticeable boost to its asking price.

While some of us are still finishing off the leftover cheese, the UK housing market has already hit the ground running. If you’re thinking of selling, it’s a prime moment: now is the busiest time of year for property searches on Zoopla. Thousands of people are kicking off the new year with a resolution to find a new home.

And here’s the key: when buyers are viewing homes right now they’re not looking for sun-drenched patios or swimming pools.

We asked our network of expert estate agents how much they would market homes with certain features for in winter versus other times of the year. They based their valuations on an average 3-bed property with an asking price of £324,000.

And the results are telling: 'winter warmer' features could net you a serious premium during the colder months. A nearly-£20,000 kind of serious premium.

Here are the 5 features that add the most value to asking prices in winter.

1. A traditional wood-burning fireplace: +£4,568

Right now a woodburner represents the dream of cosy evenings and slow Sundays when it’s cold outside. In fact, 38% of homebuyers say they would be prepared to pay more for a home with a traditional fireplace.

Beyond the vibes, there’s a practical perk: a woodburner is thought to shave about 10% off heating bills, which is a neat selling point when energy costs are high.

This is why estate agents say a woodburner adds about 1.41% to your asking price. If you have one, make sure it’s lit for viewings. A roaring fire really can be the difference between a 'maybe' and an offer.

2. Quality insulation: +£4,536

It may not be the most glamorous feature, but when energy bills are front of mind, a home that holds its warmth is a major selling point. With only 52% of UK homes achieving an EPC rating of C or higher, buyers are increasingly keen for future-proofing against high bills and low efficiency.

Showing your home is a fortress against the frost adds roughly 1.4% to your home’s market value, according to estate agents. It’s the house-selling equivalent of wearing a really sensible thermal vest.

3. Underfloor heating: +£3,985

Stepping onto a warm kitchen floor when it’s 2 degrees outside? As far as we’re concerned, there’s no greater luxury.

Underfloor heating is the hidden value-add that makes a home feel premium, and it’s surprisingly energy efficient. It's estimated to use about 12% less energy than traditional radiators because it operates at lower temperatures.

Our estate agents said that underfloor heating adds roughly 1.23% to your asking price in winter. Make sure it’s turned on an hour before viewers arrive - and stick to that ‘shoes off’ policy for full effect.

4. Other energy efficiency measures: +£3,402

High-spec double glazing and efficient boilers are the quiet heroes of the January market. Around 41% of buyers say they would be prepared to pay extra for a home with good energy efficiency, and estate agents reckon it adds 1.05% to your price tag.

In an era where new builds are saving owners nearly £1,000 a year on bills compared to older stock, showing that your property can keep up is vital for protecting your price. It gives buyers peace of mind that their home will be cost-effective to run through the rest of the winter.

5. An AGA-style range cooker: +£3,337

An AGA isn't just an oven, it's a lifestyle statement. It provides a literal heart to the home that homebuyers find incredibly hard to resist, and 26% say they would pay more for a house that has one.

Estate agents say that AGAs add roughly 1.03% to your home’s value. Plus, it gives you a great excuse to have some fresh brownies sitting on the counter, which is the oldest trick in the book for a reason.

The agent’s take

Claire Carter, Country House Associate Director at John D Wood & Co. said:

“The country housing market in particular has always had a natural rhythm with the seasons - not just in terms of features, but location too. It’s not necessarily the case that features add value, but they become more emotionally compelling - a roaring fire on a cold winter’s day or a glorious garden in summer can absolutely tip a buyer’s decision.

“The time of year matters hugely for presentation, for example, a house photographed in January looks completely different by May. When selling in winter, I always encourage my clients to light the fire and turn on the underfloor heating because nobody wants to feel chilly on a viewing. During summer, it is all about showing the house in its element with blooming gardens, blue skies, and sun-dappled terraces.

“Ultimately, selling a house is about capturing the imagination of buyers and helping them to imagine their life there, whatever the season.”

What could you sell for?

The research clearly demonstrates that homebuyers are swayed by the season, and in some cases, certain features can help sellers achieve more for their home. For the first time, we’ve put a hard figure on how much value these features add with the help of our estate agent partners.

But every home is different, so bear in mind that these are averages and estimates. If you’re thinking of selling, get bespoke advice from several local estate agents. They’ll be able to advise if your unique home might be more desirable and command a higher asking price during winter, spring, summer or autumn.

Key takeaways

• The first few months of the year are a peak time for buyer activity on Zoopla, with pent-up demand from the festive break leading to a spike in property searches.

• Homes with certain features, like woodburners and underfloor heating, can see a boost in value during the winter months when they are most ‘in season’.

• Nearly half of buyers (47%) admit they paid more for a property because they were swayed by seasonal features that made the home feel comfortable and inviting.

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by Blackstones

Budget-friendly places to rent without sacrificing quality of life

Trying to keep rent costs down? This guide reveals the most affordable places to rent across the UK in 2026.

The rental market is finally beginning to rebalance. After years of rapid rent increases, conditions are easing, with rents now rising at a much slower pace.

Our latest trends shows rents are just 2.2% higher than a year ago — the slowest rate of rental growth in four years. As of December 2025, the average UK rent stands at £1,320 per month, or £18,840 a year.

This slowdown is being driven by a narrowing gap between supply and demand. Rental demand has fallen by around 20% over the past year, while the number of available rental homes has increased by 15%.

For renters, this means more choice, less competition, and reduced pressure on household budgets.

Average rents in UK regions

The North East is the cheapest region to rent in the UK. The average rent here is £760 per calendar month (pcm), which is a rise of 4.5% in the last year.

It’s followed by Northern Ireland (£854 pcm), Yorkshire and the Humber (£869 pcm) and Scotland (£882 pcm).

In expensive areas like London, rents have hit an 'affordability ceiling' - people simply can't pay any more. Meanwhile, in traditionally cheaper areas, prices are jumping as people move further out to find a bargain.

London’s average rent of £2,224 pcm makes it almost twice as pricey to rent than anywhere else in the country. The capital is followed by the South East, East of England and South West.

10 cheapest cities to rent a home in 2026

If the world (or UK) is your oyster when it comes to relocating, these cities are your best bet for keeping your bank balance happy. These spots tend to have lower local living costs and many are commutable of larger nearby cities.

Cheapest districts to rent by region

If you're after a bargain without relocating too far, your best bet is to look at local authorities within each region. Here's a breakdown of the cheapest districts to rent across the UK and what makes them stand out (in order from the cheapest region to the most expensive).

1. North East

The North East remains the most budget-friendly corner of the UK when it comes to renting. Hartlepool is the bargain champion, offering coastal living for a fraction of the rents you'd find down south.

County Durham has great countryside, historic landmarks and low rents, while Redcar and Cleveland’s low average rents make it one of the UK’s most affordable seaside spots.

2. Scotland

As the cheapest place to rent in Scotland, East Ayrshire has an average monthly rent of £602 - but it's seeing strong rental rises. It's a good example of how rents are rising the fastest in the places with more affordable rental rates. For East Ayrshire, this is the 'Glasgow effect' - people are moving further out to find value, which in turn drives up local rents.

Also on the list is Dumfries and Galloway, a scenic region known for its rugged coastline and charming market towns.

3. Yorkshire and the Humber

Kingston-upon-Hull - more commonly known as Hull - is an affordable port city with a vibrant arts scene, making it a popular choice for renters in 2026 and explaining the 5.6% jump in rents this year. North East and North Lincolnshire are also affordable options in this region, with rents sitting under £700 pcm across the district.

4. East Midlands

The East Midlands offers plenty of affordable gems when it comes to rental homes. Rents are rising steadily as the region becomes a massive hub for logistics and remote workers.

East Lindsey is a coastal district known for its lovely beaches, perfect for those seeking a tranquil, scenic lifestyle on a budget. Bassetlaw offers a blend of rural tranquility and excellent transport links, with key towns like Worksop and Retford, while Bolsover is seeing growth as its historic charm attracts commuters from Sheffield.

5. Wales

The Valleys remain the best place for a bargain in Wales, although it's seeing above-average rental growth as more people trade the city for the stunning Mid-Wales countryside. Look to Powys, Blaenau Gwent, and Merthyr Tydfil for the best rental value, with many spots offering good travel links to Cardiff and Swansea.

6. North West

The Burnley, Allerdale and Pendle districts have low rents compared to the rest of the UK, but they are seeing higher-than-average annual growth. All offer good commuting options and access to landscapes like the Pennines and Lake District.

7. West Midlands

Stoke-on-Trent is an affordable base for renters in the West Midlands with an average rent of £752 pcm within easy reach of Birmingham. Staffordshire Moorlands is another cheap option for rents, and the affordable East Staffordshire has a number of popular market towns with good connections to Birmingham and Nottingham.

8. South West

The South West sits among the pricier regions to rent a home, but North Devon is a good choice for affordability. Torridge offers charming historic villages, a peaceful rural lifestyle and average rents of £809 pcm while West Devon - the gateway to Dartmoor National Park - is growing in popularity among renters, contributing to strong 10.1% annual rental growth.

9. East of England

In a region typically known for higher rents, Waveney offers a seaside escape with low rents. The towns of Lowestoft and Southwold are ideal for those wanting a coastal lifestyle with good affordability.

Great Yarmouth in Norfolk is a popular seaside resort with vibrant history and affordable rents, while Fenland in Cambridgeshire offers a rural lifestyle with rents that are significantly lower than the regional average

10. South East

The South East is second to only London when it comes to the most expensive places to rent a home, but the Isle of Wight offers lower prices with coastal charm and a relaxed pace of life.

Thanet is known for its popular seaside towns like Margate and Broadstairs, with affordable rents drawing more Londoners to the Kent coast in recent years. Dover’s good transport links to London also make it a popular choice for commuters.

11. London

"Cheapest" in London is relative, but Croydon stands out for its comparative affordability. It's a vibrant urban hub with excellent transport links and ongoing regeneration.

Sutton is a highly sought-after borough with a strong community feel, top schools and plenty of green spaces on the outskirts of the city, while Bexley’s mix of suburban living and transport links have pushed rents up by 4.7% in the last year.

Key takeaways

• Renters are finally seeing some relief as price hikes slow down and the frantic competition for homes begins to ease.
• Rental costs still vary wildly by location, with the North East offering the best rental value while London remains the most expensive.
• Burnley, Sunderland, and Hull top the list for the cheapest rents in UK cities in 2026.
• We’ve mapped out the best value spots in every region to help you find a cheaper rental home without leaving the area you love.

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by Blackstones

Inside the Modern Buyer's Mind: The Features Defining Britain's Housing Market

From functional necessities to aspirational upgrades, explore the ten features shaping property searches across the UK

When it comes to house hunting, everyone’s got their non-negotiables.

For some, it’s all about a garage for the car (or the clutter). For others, it’s a garden big enough for a football pitch, or maybe a pool to dip into when the Great British summer finally shows up.

Zoopla’s latest search data offers a clear snapshot of what buyers have dreamt about most this year, revealing the keywords that are setting the pace in the property market.

And if you’re lucky enough to own a home with these features? Get an valuation to find out how it impacts your home’s value and how many buyers would be interested right now.

1. Garage (or even better, a double garage)

Garages are still the undisputed heavyweight champion of home features. Whether it’s shelter for a cherished car, a place to hide an ever-growing collection of tools, or the perfect spot for a DIY gym, buyers cannot get enough.

And if one garage is good, a double garage is clearly better. More space, more storage, more smug satisfaction when the heavens open.

With electric vehicles on the rise and families needing room for everything from bikes to buggies, it is no wonder this keyword sits firmly at the top. A garage is no longer just a bonus. For many buyers, it’s an essential piece of kit.

2. New-build buying schemes

Hot on the heels of practicality comes opportunity. Our exclusive filter for new-build buying schemes helps you quickly spot Help to Buy-style options and developer incentives that could make a real difference to your affordability.

The appeal is clear: energy-efficient homes, modern layouts and a little extra financial support to help make that first (or next) step. Two schemes in particular are drawing plenty of attention.

• Deposit Unlock
  Deposit Unlock lets you buy a new-build house or two-bedroom apartment with just a 5% deposit. The developer pays into an insurance policy that lowers the lender’s risk, which can mean a better mortgage rate - even if you’re borrowing up to 95% of the home’s value.
  It is open to all buyers, provided the developer is part of the scheme. Studios and one-bed flats are not eligible.
• Own New - Rate Reducer
  Rate Reducer focuses on making monthly payments more manageable. It uses the housebuilder’s incentive budget to lower your mortgage rate, sometimes to below 1% for a fixed period.
  For example, a 5% incentive on a £350,000 mortgage at 60% LTV could bring the rate down from 4.79% to 0.99% for two years, cutting payments to roughly £883 a month.
  The scheme is available to both first-time buyers and existing homeowners, with several major lenders and over 200 housebuilders already on board.

Together, these schemes show why searches for new build buying options remain sky-high and why our exclusive filter is proving such a powerful tool for buyers ready to make their move.

3. Annexe

Annexes are having quite the moment, and it’s not hard to see why. Buyers are searching for homes that can bend and flex with real life, whether that means a comfortable space for ageing parents, a soft landing for adult children, or a handy spot to generate a little side income.

An annexe offers independence and connection in equal measure. It’s close enough for support, yet separate enough for privacy, which makes it a smart solution for today’s multigenerational households.

No surprise, then, that this search term keeps climbing the charts. Versatile, practical and future-proof, an annexe adds a layer of convenience that many buyers now consider essential.

4. Rural

The city has its sparkle, but many buyers are craving something a little quieter.

Searches for rural homes are climbing, driven by the lure of open fields, slower mornings and the joy of hearing actual birds rather than delivery vans.

For some, it’s about trading crowded pavements for winding lanes. For others, it’s the promise of space, fresh air and a lifestyle that feels a touch more grounded.

Whatever the reason, the countryside dream is very much alive, and plenty of movers are ready to swap city bustle for a gentler pace.

5. Acre

When a garden simply will not cut it, buyers are turning their sights to something a little more expansive.
Searches for “acre” highlight a growing appetite for proper space, whether it’s for smallholding ambitions, a paddock for the family pony, or the ultimate backdrop for summer gatherings.It’s a clear sign that post-pandemic priorities still linger. Room to roam, breathe and create a lifestyle on your own terms has never looked more tempting. An acre is not just land; it’s possibility.

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by Blackstones

UK Housing Market Delivers Significant Capital Appreciation

Nearly 2.5 million homes have gained £100k+ in value since 2020—equivalent to £55 per day.

If you bought your home five years ago, you might want to take a peek at what it’s worth today, it could be a pleasant surprise.

Our latest research shows that while most homeowners have seen steady gains of just under 20% over that period, more than two million homes have gained £100,000 or more in that time.

But as ever, location matters, and the scale of your gains depends very much on where you call home.

Where are homes increasing in value?

It’s perhaps no surprise that the biggest value hikes are found in the South of England, where house prices already start from a higher base.

In fact, around 6 in 10 homes that have gained £100,000 or more in the past five years are located in the south.

London leads the charge, accounting for 16% of these properties; that’s nearly 400,000 homes that have seen six-figure gains.

Not far behind are the Home Counties, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Essex and Surrey, where another 400,000 homes have also crossed the £100k mark.

Step outside the capital and its commuter belt, and you’ll still find some impressive hotspots. Places like the Cotswolds, Trafford, South Hams and Malvern Hills have all seen more than a quarter of local homes rise by at least £100,000 since October 2020 - proof that strong growth isn’t just confined to the city lights.

The North West sees fastest growth

While the South of England leads in cash gains, the North West and Wales have seen the most dramatic percentage increases.

Across the UK, over 800 thousand homes have jumped in value by 50% or more over the past five years, and just under a third of these (240,000 homes - 30%) are found in the North West.

In places like Rochdale, Oldham and Bolton, values have surged as buyers seek better value for money within commuting reach of Manchester and Liverpool.

South Wales has also shone, particularly in Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil, where 2 in 10 homes have risen by 50% or more since 2020.

Of course, not every homeowner has seen their property’s value rise. Over the last five years, 1.4 million homes across the UK have actually fallen in value by at least £10,000, showing just how varied the market has become.

London has seen the biggest share of losses, with around 1 in 4 homes now valued below their pre-pandemic level. Nearly 275,000 homes in the capital have dropped by £50,000 or more, and about 200,000 of those are in inner boroughs such as Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, where 3 in 10 homes have fallen by £100,000 or more.

Beyond London, some homeowners in Aberdeenshire and parts of urban Essex and Surrey have also seen values edge back, reflecting slower demand in higher-priced or more specialised markets.

Still, these areas are the exception rather than the rule. For most of the country, values have either held steady or grown; a sign of how resilient the UK’s housing market has remained, even amid rising mortgage costs and a broader cost of living squeeze.

Why the five-year view matters

Looking back to June 2020 gives us a clear picture of how the market has evolved through an extraordinary period. The pandemic changed what buyers were looking for, with more people seeking space, greenery and better value outside traditional commuter zones.

Those trends drove price growth in areas that had previously flown under the radar, especially across the North West and Wales.

Then, as mortgage rates rose and affordability tightened from 2022 onwards, demand shifted again, slowing price growth in the South, but keeping activity steady in regions where homes still offered relative affordability.

Five years on, this comparison also speaks to a more personal milestone. Many homeowners start to reassess their next move around the five-year mark (the so-called “five-year itch”) whether that means upsizing, downsizing, or exploring a new location.

Making the most of your paper gains

For those thinking about selling, these figures might be the nudge you need to check what your home is worth today. Even if you’re not planning to move, knowing your current home value can help you plan your next steps - whether that’s remortgaging, renovating, or simply celebrating how much your property has grown in five years.

While the market continues to evolve, many homeowners remain in a stronger position than they might expect. And for those who’ve seen slower growth, history suggests the market has a way of balancing itself out over time.

So, whether your home has gained £100,000 or £10,000, it’s worth taking stock of how much things have changed since 2020, and what that could mean for your next chapter.

Key takeaways

• Over 2.5 million homes across the UK have risen in value by £100,000 or more since October 2020
• Southern England leads the way, with 6 in 10 of these homes located in London and other regions in the south
• 30% of homes that have increased in value by 50% or more are found in the North West
• 1.4 million homes have seen their value fall by at least £10,000 in the past five years.

 

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by Blackstones

How Much Are Sellers Really Making?

Property really can pay off, with home sellers in England and Wales making an average profit of £72,000

New analysis of Land Registry and Registers of Scotland data has revealed just how much sellers across the UK have been cashing in over the last 18 months. Spoiler: it depends a lot on where you live, what you own, and how long you’ve been there.

On average, sellers in England and Wales made £72,000 profit when selling their home (that’s the price of a new Tesla). That’s roughly a 38% boost on the price they originally paid. Not bad for simply living somewhere!

But the story isn’t the same everywhere. Some regions are true golden tickets, while others have been a little slower to reward homeowners.

London and the South East are the jackpot regions. Sellers here typically walked away with £130,000 and £94,000 profit respectively. To put that into perspective, £130,000 could buy you an average-priced home in 11 local authorities in the North. Talk about relocating with change to spare.

The reason? Higher property values, longer stays in homes, and strong price growth in the years before Brexit.

In contrast, the North East has been a tougher market. Sellers there made around £35,000 profit on average, which works out at about 26% of their original purchase price. This lower return reflects the region’s long recovery period following the 2008 financial crash, when prices took more than a decade to bounce back. However, on the plus side, the North East is now enjoying stronger-than-average price growth, driven by its relative affordability and increasing buyer demand.

How long you stay matters

If you think the longer you live in your home, the more profit you’ll make when you sell…well, that’s mostly true. But there’s a twist.

Homeowners who sold after 10-15 years often saw bigger gains than those who stuck it out for 15-20 years. That’s because many long-stayers had the misfortune of owning during the global financial crisis when prices dipped.

In southern England and London, the classic rule applies: the longer you’ve owned, the more you’ve gained.

But in lower-value regions that saw a price boom after Covid, even those who sold after just a few years walked away with solid profits.

How often do people actually move?

Across the UK, the average homeowner stays in their property for 9 years before selling. But in London and the South East, that stretches to 10-11 years. Moving there is pricier (hello, stamp duty) and less affordable, so people stay put longer.

In commuter towns like Dartford, Slough, Watford, Enfield and Romford, the average time before moving is also around 9 years.

In big regional cities like Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, people also tend to stay put longer than their neighbours.

What does this all mean?

Whether you’re thinking of selling, staying, or daydreaming about what your house could be worth, it’s clear that location and timing play huge roles in the kind of profit you can make.

Some sellers are unlocking enough money to buy a home outright elsewhere, while others are seeing more modest returns. With house price growth now slowing after several years of rapid increases, homeowners who bought more recently may not be looking at gains of £72,000 or more. Still, it’s a useful reminder of how much wealth can build up over time through property ownership.

Whether you’re sitting on a potential six-figure profit or something more modest, your home isn’t just a roof over your head; it’s quietly earning its keep in the background.

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by Blackstones

Self-Managing Your Rental? Here's How to Avoid Legal Nightmares and Bad Tenants

Shifting the Balance: Why Landlord Compliance is Now More Important Than Ever Under the Renters' Rights Bill.

The rental market is constantly evolving, and landlords must decide whether to manage their properties independently or hire a letting agent.

Despite the convenience and expertise offered by professional agents, nearly half of landlords still opt to handle things themselves.

This is particularly true of landlords with just one or very few homes. Government data shows that landlords with 5+ homes are far more likely to use an agent to manage their portfolio.

But are smaller landlords exposing themselves to increased risks, especially as the new Renters Rights Bill comes into law?

Cost savings a key factor in self-managing investment properties

Landlords often choose to self-manage rather than use letting agents for several reasons. The main factor is cost, as agent fees can typically take 10–17% of rental income.

Many also prefer having direct control over tenant relationships and property decisions. DIY platforms are making advertising, vetting and contracts easier without professional help. For landlords with just one or two properties, managing the workload themselves is often seen as more manageable.

The reality of self-managing your properties

When I hear that 50% of landlords still choose not to use a letting agent, I don’t scoff - I get it. Because I used to be one of them.

For many landlords, especially those with a single buy-to-let property or a couple of family homes, the case against using an agent seems straightforward: it seems expensive, it’s less personal between you and your tenants, and “how hard can it be?”

But here’s what I’ve learned the hard way, particularly in the HMO sphere.

Self-managing may seem like saving money - but often it’s just delaying the costs. And in some cases, the reality of getting it wrong can far outweigh the perceived savings.

Self-managing requires time, effort and knowledge of the 169 Acts and 402 Regulations that govern the private rented sector. Choosing the right letting agent can offer security and peace of mind, protecting landlords from making the most common, and often very expensive, mistakes.

Letting agents can be especially invaluable for inexperienced landlords or those with larger portfolios, HMO properties or simply busy schedules.

In reality, good management preserves profit, rather than eating into it.

A landlord’s desire to maintain control over their tenancies can also be a double-edged sword. Letting a property, owning a portfolio or running a HMO isn’t just about being available to fix a leaky tap - it’s about managing relationships and, oftentimes, disputes.

The growing importance of letting agents under the Renters' Rights Bill

The Renters' Rights Bill is set to become law in the next few months and will bring significant changes to the rental market, making compliance more crucial than ever.

The new bill introduces stricter obligations on landlords, covering everything from tenancy agreements to property safety standards. The margin for error is shrinking, and even minor, accidental mistakes could result in hefty fines.

With penalties for persistent breaches skyrocketing to an eye-watering £40,000, rent repayment orders increasing to two years’ worth of rent and the possibility of civil and criminal prosecutions, landlords must ensure they are fully aligned with regulations. This shift makes using a letting agent more valuable than ever before.

With stronger legal protections for tenants, landlords must be careful in handling disputes, evictions and rent arrears. Letting agents are skilled negotiators, familiar with the correct processes to avoid costly legal battles. Their expertise ensures that landlords can resolve issues efficiently and within the law.

While self-managing may have been feasible in the past, the increased risks and financial penalties make hiring a qualified letting agent a smart safeguard. Their knowledge, experience, and legal expertise could mean the difference between a smooth rental operation and costly legal trouble.

The line between passive income and full-time responsibility blurs quickly. The reality is: what seems manageable at first can quickly become overwhelming - especially as compliance standards grow more complex year by year.

I used to be a DIY landlord, adamant that I could go it alone. Today, I run a vertically integrated property business providing services to landlords like myself, because I realised it wasn’t about saving money - it was about building a model that works, legally, operationally and financially.

Letting a property is so much more than just the collection of rent. Landlords need, more than ever, a trusted partner who understands the complexity of private renting obligations, anticipates the risks and raises the bar.

 

Key takeaways

• The impending Renters' Rights Bill makes compliance critical, with legal penalties rising significantly for breaches.

• Self-managing often delays inevitable costs, as mistakes - such as skipping robust tenant referencing - can quickly lead to costly evictions and arrears.

• The perceived savings are often negated by the financial risk of getting compliance wrong, which can far outweigh the cost of professional support.

• A professional agent acts as a vital legal safeguard by expertly navigating the 169 Acts and 402 Regulations governing the sector, protecting landlords from significant legal trouble.

• Alex Babouris and Julie Ford from our Lettings Advisory Board share their views on self-management versus using a letting agent.

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by Blackstones

Rising Home Prices Driven by Surge in First-Time Buyers

Over 4.8 million homeowners use MyHome to track their home’s value, build equity insights, and see what’s selling nearby, all with our tools that make moving decisions smarter and easier.

Despite higher prices in many areas, improved mortgage affordability means they’re making up the biggest share of home purchases across the UK.

According to our latest research, the average price of a first home now stands at £229,000 - up 2.4% over the last year. That rise outpaces the wider housing market, which grew by 1.3%. In other words, first-time buyers are driving activity more than any other group.

Borrowing power boosts first-time buyers

The main reason is borrowing power. Thanks to improved mortgage affordability over the past six months, buyers can now borrow around 20% more than before. That’s sparked a 30% jump in first-time buyer mortgages, helping thousands onto the ladder.

First-time buyers now account for 39% of all property sales and nearly half of all new mortgages (49%). It’s no surprise then that they’re shaping the market more than ever.

What are first-time buyers buying?

The three-bedroom house is the most popular choice, attracting 45% of first-time buyers. Flats, on the other hand, are slipping in demand, now accounting for just 29% of first-time buyer enquiries outside London.

Regional price trends: winners and strugglers

Across most of the UK, first-time buyer prices are rising faster than the overall market. The stand-out is the North East, where first-home prices have jumped 10.2% in the past year, compared with 2.4% for all homes. Scotland, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the North West are also seeing above-average growth.

In contrast, London tells a different story. With high stamp duty and tougher affordability, the average first-home price in the capital has actually fallen by 2.4% over the year. To make ends meet, London’s buyers are targeting homes priced well below local averages – typically around 21% cheaper.

Affordability gap shapes choices

On average, first-time buyers look for homes about 15% below the local market price. That discount grows in regions where affordability is tight, such as the South East (21%), Wales (17%), and of course London (21%).

Richard Donnell, our Executive Director, says this variation reflects how affordability shapes buying decisions. “First-time buyers have had a 20% boost to affordability over the last six months. This is enabling them to look at higher-value homes in the more affordable parts of the country. In contrast, in London and southern England, affordability remains a big challenge, so buyers are seeking cheaper options despite the extra borrowing capacity.”

What it means for first-time buyers

Whether prices are climbing or easing, first-time buyers remain the backbone of the housing market. With greater borrowing power and determination, they’re proving that 2025 could be the year many more step onto the ladder - even if they’re climbing it in slightly different ways depending on where they live.

 

Key takeaways

• First-time buyers now make up 39% of all home sales and nearly half of new mortgages
• The average first-time buyer home costs £229,000, up 2.4% in a year, outpacing the wider market
• Borrowing power has risen 20%, fuelling a 30% jump in first-time buyer mortgages
• Prices are up 10.2% in the North East but down 2.4% in London

 

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by Blackstones