If you’re hoping to move home in 2026, get your finances in good shape first   Remember to factor in moving costs, such as solicitor fees, surveys, removals and Stamp Duty  Take

Regional growth will be uneven, with the strongest price rises expected in more affordable northern regions  Early years of low growth may help first-time buyers

First-time buyers increasingly prefer city living, reversing the pandemic’s ‘race for space’  Dundee, Edinburgh and Doncaster show the largest rises in FTB city enquiries  London demand has

Owning a home can create significant long-term savings when compared with renting  Renters in London and Bristol are missing out the most on savings opportunities 

Buyers are willing to pay a premium for a home with a sea view  One million UK homes have risen in value by at least 50%

More first-time buyers are purchasing homes later in life to manage affordability challenges  Longer mortgage terms help keep monthly payments manageable but extend debt into later years 

Average home insurance costs vary depending on property type and size The most common reasons for claiming are water damage and accidents Renewing policies early,

Buyers can be swayed by seasonal features depending on when they’re buying  Winter buyers prioritise warmth, so would pay more for a fireplace and insulation  Summer buyers

The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available across the UK  Lenders are insured against losses, supporting availability of high LTV mortgages  When borrowing at

Buyers gain negotiating power with more homes available and improving mortgage affordability  Sellers must adopt competitive pricing strategies as overpriced homes risk being overlooked  Modest