Residential Property Review – August 2026
Construction sector – Glenigan index figures indicate that the construction sector is stuck in neutral Property sales – The number of council homes sold under the Right to Buy scheme increased by 90% in 2025 Regional outlook – Sales activity in Devon and Cornwall has not picked up despite holiday let reforms Construction sector stuck […]
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Commercial Property Review – August 2026
Office occupancy – AI firms are helping to drive demand for office space in Central London Hotel sector – UK hotel investment volumes reached approx. £2.1bn in the first half of 2026 Retail – Retail park vacancy rates hit a record low, with 1.8% of the total UK floor space currently available Office sector update […]
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News in Review
The UK economy grew by 0.4% between April and June, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) UK unemployment was estimated at 4.9% between April and June 2026 – 0.1% lower than the previous quarter A major new report shows that poverty among pensioners increased from 15.7% in 2012/13 to 18.6% in […]
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News in Review
Organisations are to be assessed on the creation of high-quality jobs and local skills development The exceptionally hot spring and summer could put further pressure on household food bills, according to analysis S&P Global Services PMI confirmed the UK service sector recorded its first increase in business activity for three months “I want every government […]
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In the news
UK dividend growth has strengthened, supporting improved income prospects for long-term investors and diversified portfolios Investment scams are becoming more sophisticated, making vigilance and financial advice increasingly important Many savers remain in low-interest accounts, potentially reducing wealth through inflation and missed opportunities UK dividends show signs of recovery UK dividend payouts made a stronger-than-expected start […]
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Key home insurance trends homeowners should know
Everyday accidents now account for a nearly a third of home insurance claims with the average claim rising significantly Flood risk is becoming an increasing concern, even for newer properties. Understanding flood exposure is now key Period homes, though still highly desirable, often attract higher premiums due to specialist repair requirements The home insurance landscape […]
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IHT gifting reminder: your questions answered
The inclusion of pensions in IHT calculations from 2027 is accelerating the shift towards lifetime gifting Increasingly, families are exploring how to gift with control, such as placing assets into trusts Seeking professional advice can help ensure your strategy aligns with your long-term goals Why is gifting back in the spotlight? Rising Inheritance Tax (IHT) […]
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News in Review
The Monetary Policy Committee voted 6–3 to leave Bank Rate unchanged at 3.75% at its July meeting The Chancellor confirmed the next Budget for 28 October 2026, alongside an Office for Budget Responsibility forecast Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed social care reform in England and did not rule out tax rises to help fund changes […]
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In the news
63% of UK employees are unaware of the government’s planned 2029 salary sacrifice cap, according to new research Some parents have lost up to £10,000 due to private school fee scams, with average losses of £3,200 Research reveals that one in three adults have not prepared financially for later life Salary sacrifice confusion Although two […]
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Economic Review – July 2026
The Monetary Policy Committee voted 6–3 to leave Bank Rate unchanged at 3.75% at its July meeting The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by less than expected – 2.6% in the year to June, down from 2.8% in May UK consumer confidence rise helped by Burnham ‘bounce’, weather and World Cup while business confidence dips […]
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