University of Reading submits plans for 2,800-home extension as part of new Berkshire Garden Village
The University of Reading has formally submitted plans for a major new urban extension that would deliver up to 2,800 homes on the southern edge of Reading, forming part of the wider Loddon Valley Garden Village proposal. The hybrid application, now with Wokingham Borough Council, covers a 397-hectare greenfield site owned largely by the university […]
Bank Rate cut ‘will spur buyer demand”
The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee has voted by a majority of 5–4 to reduce Bank Rate by 0.25 percentage points, to 3.75%. Monetary policy is being set to ensure CPI inflation settles sustainably at 2% in the medium term, the committee said, “which involves balancing the risks around achieving this.” The extent of […]
2025 was strongest for home sales in three years, Zoopla says
Despite budget speculation hitting sales agreed in the last quarter of the year, Zoopla’s latest house price index reveals the housing market has had its strongest year for sales in three years, with a 9% increase in home moves compared to 2024. Stability in mortgage rates and stronger growth in household incomes encouraged more movers, […]
Legal sector value jumps to over £50bn as LSB outlines plans for future regulation
The legal services sector grew from a value of £41.4 billion in 2021 to £52.3 billion by 2024. Private equity investment in the sector has increased significantly, climbing by 42% from £377 million in 2023 and reaching £1.2 billion over the last five years. Satisfaction in the delivery of legal services is improving, as the […]
What’s in store for 2026? Property professionals share their predictions for the housing market
Despite stamp duty stampedes and budget-fuelled chaos, the housing market of 2025 can be summed up in one word: resilient. But with proposed reforms that could change the home buying landscape irrevocably, will 2026 be as steady? Estate agents and property professionals share their predictions. Rightmove Rightmove predicts that the 2026 market will be closer […]
Delays, upfront information and liability risks
Julie Williams, head of service delivery at outsourced conveyancing process provider ASAP, explains why enquiries remain the biggest barrier to sales progression. The home-moving process is currently under the spotlight with government, industry and consumers all pushing for faster, more transparent transactions. Despite a focus towards digitising the home buying process and consistent, shared […]