Goodness me, how on earth is it Christmas already! So far this year, we’ve seen one of the most active property markets from a transaction and price perspective, with sales expecting to reach 1.5mn and prices still rising. All this when many predicted the market would ‘fall off a cliff’ post the SDLT holiday ending. Read the full report here.

While we thought we were all heading for a nightmare guillotine at the end of March in the property market, thank goodness the Treasury listened to all those who worked hard to raise the issue of ending Stamp Duty so abruptly. When other markets have been closed down for nearly a year and some people have received no help throughout the pandemic, the property industry has thrived. And although some reports are showing a slowing of activity, most agree that those interested in home moving this year is still higher than previous years, and this growth in demand isn’t likely to stop any time soon. Read more to find out what's happening in your area.

The reality is we are in for a pretty exciting year this year. Market wise, demand seems to have gone through the roof again and will remain in positive territory probably until the summer. Savills have been the first off the blocks to assess the impact of these policies with their new forecasts for this year, and lets bear in mind how pessimistic everyone one was this time last year. Read more here.

Yes there were! Lots of things not done that people feared, including, no changes to Capital Gains Tax, no changes to income tax, VAT etc. In reality, this was a pretty good Budget for everyone except tenants in rent arrears and the landlords who are having to deal with a situation where they can’t get rent, can’t evict the tenant and can’t even sell the property to recoup their losses. So, what are the implications of the Budget for people and property in 2021 and beyond?

If you’ve decided to extend the lease on your existing flat or a property you are buying, you’re considering buying the freehold of your leasehold house, or you’re clubbing together with your neighbours to buy the freehold of your block (known as “collective enfranchisement”), you will need to obtain a professional valuation. In this article, Henrietta Hammonds member of ALEP’s Advisory Committee considers the importance of valuation in relation to the enfranchisement of leasehold properties.