Anyone keen to secure a landlord insurance deal might have noted that house prices dropped by 0.9 per cent during August.

This is according to the latest figures from Nationwide, which previously recorded a decline in values of 0.5 per cent during July.

An expert has said that the UK's mortgage market could be transformed by an injection of confidence, in remarks that may catch the attention of landlord insurance seekers.

Catherine Hearnden, director at MyMortgageDirect, discussed the potential future trends with regards to people's ability to secure finance for a property investment.

Landlord insurance seekers may agree with an expert's verdict that the high deposits required to secure a mortgage on a new property are a significant barrier.

Simon Rubinsohn, chief economist at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, responded to news of the Bank of England's latest mortgage approvals data, which he said highlighted the subdued nature of the residential market.

Anyone keen to obtain a landlord insurance deal might have noted that bungalows recorded the biggest increase in value out of any property type for the second quarter of 2010.

According to the Bank of Scotland Property Type Review, such dwellings were typically worth GBP 166,018 in the second trading period of 2009, compared with GBP 178,701 for the most recent figures.

Typical home values in England and Wales are now GBP 166,798, according to the latest Land Registry findings.

The organisation's House Price Index reported a spike of 6.7 per cent in the worth of properties in the two nations over the course of a year between July 2009 and 2010.

Those looking to purchase a UK property consider its location to be the most significant factor behind its appeal.

This is according to new research by Halifax, which showed that 41 per cent consider buying in a good neighbourhood to be the key issue when assessing the market.

Landlord insurance holders could agree with an expert's assessment that properties in Scotland are typically cheaper than the rest of the UK and require a smaller repayment schedule.

David Marshall, business analyst for ESPC, discussed some of the potential advantages posed by homes north of the border, in remarks that may have caught the attention of buy-to-let investors.

Landlord insurance holders can undertake a number of measures to add value to their property, it has been suggested.

In news that may have caught the attention of those eager to gain the maximum possible income from their tenants, Michael Holmes, spokesperson for the National Home Improvement Show, said that the addition of renewable energy technologies can make a dwelling more attractive.

It is slowly becoming more of a possibility that first-time home movers will be able to secure the necessary finance deal to secure a property, if an expert's comments are anything to go by.

Helen Adams, managing director of FirstRungNow.com, said that conditions are gradually changing in the market and may become more favourable to purchasers.

Landlord insurance holders might agree with an expert's assessment that the UK's property market is showing greater signs of activity.

Vernon Pethard, managing director of newhomesforsale.co.uk, responded to news that the house builder Persimmon recorded pre-tax profits of GBP 101.4 million during the first six months of 2010.

It could be said that the drop in housing supply north of the border could enhance landlord insurance holders' ability to charge high rates for tenants.

The Scottish government has announced that the amount of new premises available in the country went down by 16 per cent between 2008-09 and 2009-10.

Landlord property insurance holders might be gladdened by news that the lettings market has experienced a period of growth, judging by new statistics.

The most up to date Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Residential Lettings Survey showed that a shortage in properties has helped contribute towards a spike in prices.

Those looking to get a landlord insurance deal in place might have noted news that Santander is reducing its fixed-rate mortgages rates by as much as 0.24 per cent.

In particular, borrowers can pick up a two-year fixed deal at 2.75 per cent, compared with the previous offer of 2.85 per cent.

The advantages of fixed-rate home purchasing deals might not have gone unnoticed by landlord insurance seekers.

And Paula John, editor of Your Mortgage, has described some of the advantages to such arrangements in terms of long term security.

The buy-to-let sector has seen an increase in activity over recent times, according to one industry analyst.

Malcolm Harrison, a property industry expert, said that some areas of the property sector have exceeded expectations.

One reason for this is that "the private rented sector is growing more than the forecast would've suggested two or three years ago", he explained.

People in the process of securing a landlord insurance deal are not unduly concerned about the current rate of capital gains tax, it has been suggested.

Malcolm Harrison, a property industry expert, said that many homeowners will already have accounted for the kinds of financial commitment they are expected to make.

Those looking to secure a landlord insurance deal are arguably more confident about the state of the market now than in previous months, judging by an industry analyst's verdict.

Drew Wotherspoon, director of marketing at Charcol.co.uk, responded to news from the organisation that the proportion of mortgages being made for purchases - rather than remortgaging - is at the highest level for many years.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has added its voice to the debate over the future prospects for homeowners in the UK.

It noted that issues such as affordability for first-time buyers will need to be addressed in order to maintain confidence in the country's model.

Landlord insurance holders who are keen to enjoy a high level of disposable income might want to purchase a property north of the border.

This is because the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has revealed that buyers who move to Scotland pay the lowest proportion of their income on home repayments than anywhere else in the UK.

Landlord insurance customers may agree with an expert's assessment that the low 0.5 per cent base rate can work in favour of many home buyers, who should remember that the figure will not always be so generous to investors.

Paula John, editor at Your Mortgage, said that although interest rates have been held at the current level since March 2009, this will not be the case forever.

Many university towns in Wales and elsewhere in the UK have seen a rise in demand among student renters, in news that may have caught the attention of landlord insurance holders.

BBC News reported on research conducted by Halifax which indicated that property values in location such as Carmarthen have increased by nearly a third over the last five years.

Landlord insurance holders might be interested by an expert's comments regarding the current state of the housing market.

Jacqui Daly, director of research at Savills, suggested there has been a reduction in the number of home sales, implying that property owners are keeping hold of their residences.

Buy to let property insurance customers might want to invest in a home north of the border, judging by new statistics.

The latest Scottish House Price Monitor from Lloyds TSB Scotland has shown that prices in the nation are moderating - perhaps suggesting that now may be the right time for many investors to get a foothold on the market.

Those with landlord insurance might be interested to learn that the gap has widened between lifetime mortgage rates and long term fixed-rate products.

This is according to research by Defaqto, which indicated that the average fixed-rate charged for the former has increased to a greater extent than the latter.

Landlords are increasingly finding it easier to obtain finance on a mortgage deal, according to an expert.

Stuart Law, chief executive officer at Assetz, responded to news from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) that gross borrowing on property purchases went up by five per cent between June and July.

More than half of UK university towns have seen an increase in home values due to an influx of students, according to new research.

Lloyds TSB revealed that 60 per cent of academic destinations have recorded property price rises greater than the surrounding region, with the largest spike seen in places which have expanded their student population.

Those looking to secure landlord insurance on a buy-to-let dwelling might agree that coastal homes represent an ideal option in terms of maintaining value.

Peter Halliday, managing director at Waterside Properties, discussed the appeal of such locations for buyers.

Landlords may agree that those getting on the housing ladder for the first time are held back by the need to generate a large deposit for their earnings.

According to Ray Boulger, senior technical manager at John Charcol, it is difficult for many would-be purchasers to gain sufficient access to finance.

The amount of available properties in rural areas could increase in the near future, judging by an expert's reaction to the country's Community Right to Build proposals.

According to Steve Briggs, planner and partner at the Taunton office of Smiths Gore, many remote regions could be subject to development as part of the nation's housing strategy.

Those with landlord insurance may have noted news that HSBC has decided to extend its low-rate tracker mortgage offer, having claimed the promotion has been subject to a high level of demand.

The plans will ensure that more people can apply for the 2.19 per cent lifetime deal, which comes with a £99 booking fee.

It could be said that landlords will benefit from any continuation of the current trend for high rental prices.

According to Tom Entwistle, director of LandlordZONE.co.uk, the high cost of accommodation may be part and parcel of the UK property market in 2010.

Buy-to-let landlord insurance seekers who are keen to get a good value property might want to research details of some of the UK's northern seaside towns.

According to Halifax, destinations such as Bridlington and Hornsea in Yorkshire, as well as Peterhead and Fraserburgh in Scotland, offer a high standard of living at an affordable price.

Landlord insurance holders might be pleased by news that the market for first-time buyers appears to have shown signs of improvement lately.

Moneyfacts gave its response to news from the Council of Mortgage Lenders that such purchasers saw a 20 per cent rise in approvals during June.

Those looking to obtain landlord insurance might agree with an expert's assessment that fixed-rate mortgages are beginning to rival tracker deals in terms of value.

According to Ray Boulger, senior technical manager at John Charcol, many investors appear to have decided that bank rates will stay at half a per cent for quite a while.

Landlord property insurance customers might be gladdened by news that deals for fixed-rate mortgages became more popular in June, according to the latest figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

It found that 48 per cent of new borrowers obtained such an arrangement during the month, despite the low bank rate currently on offer.

The pattern for growth in the UK property market is relatively unclear, according to an expert whose comments may interest anyone seeking landlord insurance.

Timothy Lambert, head of consulting at Ducalian, stated there are "a lot of contradicting views at present".

It would be preferable if the government were to put funds into helping young property buyers secure their first dwelling, judging by an expert's comments.

Helen Adams, managing director at FirstRungNow.com, highlighted the advantages of the HomeBuy Direct scheme and the potential dangers of removing support mechanisms for the initiative.

Home values in London and the south-east will continue to set the pace for the UK as a whole, according to an expert whose comments come despite a report from Halifax which indicated that prices have narrowed regionally.

Gary Styles, strategy, risk and economics director at Hometrack, hinted that the gulf between the regions may be greater than otherwise stated.

Anyone looking to obtain a deal for a new property might have noted that HSBC is introducing its lowest ever long-term fixed mortgage.

Under the deal, customers are able to fix their agreement for five years at a rate of 3.95 per cent.

The offer comes as part of a new range of deals promoted by the lender, which also includes a 2.19 per cent tracker with a £99 fee available for a period of two weeks.

Those looking to secure a new financial arrangement for a property may agree with an expert's assessment that an increase in capped offers from lenders is to be welcomed.

Ben Wilkie, editor at What Mortgage, gave his opinion on the apparent rise in the accessibility of such deals.

UK home values went up by 0.6 per cent in July, according to the Halifax House Price Index.

The mortgage provider reported that the average cost of purchasing a property was £167,425 during the month.

On an annual basis, this represents a 4.9 per cent increase compared with last year's equivalent figures.

Parents looking to secure a new home for their family place a high value on the issue of a local school's performance.

According to Selwyn Lim, director at Mouseprice, many house hunters are keen to identify properties that will appreciate in worth over time - and education is an important consideration.

Residential farmland could be a good investment

It could be said that house hunters might want to consider the merits of acquiring residential farmland.

Judging by the words of Mark McAndrew, head of farm and estate sales at Strutt & Parker, such sites may show signs of strength in the market for years to come.

House values increased by 0.1 per cent in June, according to the latest data.

Land Registry's monthly house price index revealed an overall 8.4 per cent rise on this time last year.

June is the eighth month in a row where the annual figure has risen.

Mortgage approvals fell below the six month average in June, according to new data.

The Bank of England has released its latest figures on lending to individuals.

Total net lending rose to £0.6 billion last month, but the twelve-month growth rate remained at 0.8 per cent.

Home builders are innovating to meet the government's target for carbon neutral homes by 2016, according to one industry expert.

Housing minister Grant Shapps said that the definition of carbon zero would be extended in order to allow developers and councils more flexibility in constructing new homes.

House prices fell this month for the first time since February, according to new figures.

Nationwide's monthly house price index revealed a decline of 0.5 per cent in July.

In addition, the annual rate of house price inflation fell from 8.7 per cent to 6.6 per cent.

Mortgage interest rates could remain affordable until the middle of this decade, claim industry experts.

The latest Ernst & Young ITEM Club forecast has predicted that the current historically low interest rates of 0.5 per cent could stay in place until at least 2014.

More people are seeking mortgage advice to deal with how complicated the post-recession market is, claims one industry expert.

Research published this week by unbiased.co.uk found that there had been close to a quarter (24 per cent) increase in the number of people seeking mortgage advice since the same period last year.

House prices could decline by six per cent by the end of the year, according to one real estate service provider.

Figures from Hometrack this week revealed that property values fell for the first time in 15 months in July.

The decline was recorded as 0.1 per cent, with overall demand also falling by 1.3 per cent.

Consumers looking to move home or expand their portfolios could find that lending remains thin on the ground, according to one professional body.

The Association of Mortgage Intermediaries' (AMI) latest Quarterly Economic Bulletin has estimated that gross mortgage lending for 2010 will not meet its previous estimate of GBP 150 billion.

The number of people looking for mortgage advice has grown 24 per cent year-on-year, according to new figures.

Unbiased.co.uk has reported that it received 45,000 mortgage advice queries in the first half of 2010.

The first half of 2009 only saw 36,000 searches on this topic.

Social tenants are being stopped from moving home because of a lack of available lettings, according to new research.

A report from the Human City Institute, commissioned by the housing association Circle Anglia, has estimated that the UK economy loses around GBP 542 million a year because of the impact of this immobility, Inside Housing has reported.

The government has announced plans to protect families in rural villages from being priced out of the market.

Housing minister Grant Shapps last week launched the 'Community Right to Build' initiative which will hand back planning powers to local authorities.

According to the minister, the programme will mean that rural communities will have more say in where new developments are built in their area.

On the plans he commented: "Far from the Nimbyism that often hits the headlines, up and down the country there are entire communities willing and eager to give the go-ahead for new developments in their area.

"The countryside must be a vibrant place to live, and cannot be allowed to become a museum.

"I want to give communities the power to preserve their villages, which are currently struggling to survive because of a shortage of affordable homes."

The number of UK residential landlords experiencing rent arrears has improved slightly over the last three months, according to a new report.

Figures recently released by the National Landlords Association (NLA) have revealed that 21 per cent of landlords were experiencing rent payment troubles in the second quarter of 2010.

Residential landlords with properties in Runcorn and Widnes could be set to benefit from the launch of a new accreditation scheme.

Halton Borough Council has announced the free scheme in a bid to support "decent" landlords in the area.

Landlords who opt to join the voluntary scheme will gain from interest-free property improvement loans, a recognised "quality mark" for their properties and a range of discounts on goods and services from local and national businesses.

UK landlords may find that an interest rate rise leaves them unable to pay their mortgage, according to one organisation.

A report by the site spareroom.co.uk found that even an anticipated increase in rental yields would still not be enough for just over a fifth (22 per cent) of landlords to cover higher mortgage repayments.

At least £9.5 billion worth of funding is needed over the next four years in order to prevent a housing crisis, according to several industry bodies.

The National Housing Federation, the National Federation of ALMOs and the Chartered Institute of Housing have submitted a statement for the government's 2010 Comprehensive Spending Review.

Landlords have seen a three-fold rise in tenant demand in the last quarter, according to a new survey.

Paragon Mortgages has found that 29 per cent of property investors report growing demand, in comparison to 10 per cent who said it was falling.

The planning system needs to be overhauled in order to prevent a housing deficit, claims one industry body.

An independent report commissioned by the National Housing Federation (NHF) has claimed that there will be a shortage of 85,000 new homes because the coalition has scrapped house-building targets.

There are opportunities for large-scale institutional investment in the private rented sector (PRS).

A report from the Chartered Institute of Housing into alternative funding streams for affordable housing has highlighted the potential role of the burgeoning private rented sector in plugging the social housing deficit.

According to the study, it is currently too difficult for social housing renters to move into the private rented sector.

This is because of upfront costs such as deposits, as well as the attitudes of landlords.

Seventy per cent of property investors surveyed said they would prefer not to rent to benefit claimants, while sixty per cent said claims processing takes too long.

However, the report's authors also claimed that with more institutional investment, the PRS could "contribute to the wider housing market in terms of delivering new and affordable property supply, securing higher levels of institutional investment, contributing to homelessness prevention and the discharge of homelessness duty; and facilitating greater flexibility and mobility in the housing system."
 

Posted by Luella Ravelin

Close to 15,000 families in inner London could find themselves moving to the suburbs because they can no longer afford to live in the capital.

According to a report from London Councils, the government's plans to cut Local Housing Allowance - benefit to help families rent privately - will disproportionately impact on families in the capital.

UK house prices rose by 0.7 per cent in May, according to the latest government data.

Communities and Local Government has reported that UK house prices rose by 11 per cent over 12 months.

This means that the average house price in the UK was GBP 209,505 two months ago.

The government needs to clarify its position on the future of affordable homes if it is to avoid a housing crisis, according to one industry body.

Housing minister Grant Shapps last week said that the Treasury backed his decision to abolish the Tenant Services Authority (TSA) despite reports that officials in the department were concerned about how funding for social housing would be affected.

New landlords who are waiting out the property market by renting out their homes should make sure they have the appropriate insurance.

This is according to one comparison site, which notes that landlord insurance can be bought for under £100 from Simple insurance.

There were fewer properties on the market in June for the first time in four months, according to new data.

The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) reported that the decreased stock coincided with more registrations from house-hunters.

Protection measures for mortgage borrowers may be premature, claims one expert.

The Financial Services Authority this week published a paper on reforming lending practices in order to prevent borrowers from over-committing themselves.

Measures outlined in the paper included the banning of the self-certified and fast-track measures.

House prices in the UK could take a decade to return to pre-recession levels, according to a new study.

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) have estimated that there is a 50 per cent chance that values could remain below pre-recession 2007 levels even in 2020.

Mortgage rates are currently at their most affordable in 35 years, according to new figures.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has reported that new homeowners in May only spent 9.5 per cent of their income on interest payments.

In May 2009, mortgages accounted for around 11.4 per cent of income for the average homeowner.

New buyer enquiries fell last month, for the second time since the beginning of the recession.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) found that five per cent of its members reported a fall in demand.

Worries about the state of the economy and the impact of austerity measures have been held accountable for the slowdown in activity.

New measures to protect consumers from over-borrowing on mortgages could unfairly restrict access to credit, according to one housing industry body.

The Financial Services Authority has issued a consultation paper on responsible lending, which will see the end of self-certified and fast-tracked mortgages.

The government has reportedly cut the funding for eco-towns.

According to an exclusive in Inside Housing, housing minister Grant Shapps told local councils last week that he planned to halve the available funds for this year.

Shapps also called on council officials to give evidence of support from local residents for eco-development plans, claimed the site.

House prices fell for the third month in succession in June, according to the latest index.

Halifax has reported that the average cost of a home fell by 0.6 per cent last month.

This follows a slide of 0.5 per cent in May and an 0.1 per cent dip in April.

Housing transactions increased by a fifth in June, claims an independent analysis.

Academetrics' latest housing report says that there were 63,500 transactions in June, as opposed to 52,975 in May.

Despite the increase in housing demand, prices dropped by 0.5 per cent, according to its research.

Homeowners may find themselves in shock when new interest rates kick in, according to one industry organisation.

The Consumer Financial Education Body (CFEB) has found that over half (51 per cent) were waiting for rates to rise.

However, 54 per cent had made no plans to review their current deal, in order to get a better one, with most saying that they would leave it "to the last minute".

The UK has seen a five-fold increase in property millionaires over the past decade, claims new research.

Santander Mortgages found in its study that there are now over 100,000 homes worth more than GBP 1 million in the country.

In 2000, there were only 26,776 properties valued above this threshold.

The government has announced that it will scrap targets for new homes building set by the previous Labour government.

Communities minister Eric Pickles this week said that a new localism bill, to be presented this parliamentary session, would return planning powers to local authorities.

The government has found funding for an additional 8,500 homes, it claimed this week.

Housing minister Grant Shapps said that GBP 390 million worth of funding became available after spending commitments across four other departments were abolished.

Mortgage approvals are likely to remain at low levels while more cuts are pushed through by the coalition, claims one industry expert.

Figures from the Bank of England last month revealed that loan approvals dropped very slightly in May, from the previous month.

The construction sector has shown its fourth month of increased activity.

According to the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply's monthly index for June, growth registered at 58.4 last month.

This is only slightly down on May's figure of 58.5.

The rented sector in the UK increased in size by nine per cent in 2009, according to new data.

Social Trends 40, based on Office for National Statistics information, examines changes in housing and household consumption habits in the UK.

'Affordable and decent housing' in the private rented sector needs to come onto the political agenda, claims one industry figure.

The Building and Social Housing Foundation (BSHF) recently published a major report, revealing that the private rented sector could constitute one in five households by 2020.

Tenants need more support to reduce bills and waste less energy, according to a new survey.

Marketiers found that just over four in ten people felt that energy suppliers offered little or no assistance in helping customers cut their carbon emissions.

A new affordable homes scheme could set a precedent for the future.

The development by Linfoot Country Homes in Warwickshire will have nine homes for sale and 13 properties for "affordable rent".

However, these will all only be available for local people, Midlands Business has reported.

Local communities could be given financial incentives for accepting planning requests, according to the government.

The Infrastructure Planning Commission was abolished this week by decentralisation minister Greg Clark.

He has said that the quango will instead be replaced with "a new rapid and accountable system", which will see parliament being given final ratification powers on planning proposals.

The cost of owning, running and maintaining a home has become cheaper since the recession.

New figures from Halifax's regular review show that the average costs of home ownership have fallen by six per cent for owner-occupiers.

According to its data, home costs have dropped by �554 between April 2008 and April 2010.

Sale and rent back schemes (SRB) will now be subject to tough scrutiny.

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has introduced new rules to protect vulnerable homeowners struggling to pay off their mortgages.

SRBs buy homes from owners and then allow the former occupiers to 'rent' the property back.

Raising capital gains tax (CGT) will be a severe blow to the fragile recovery of the private rented sector, according to one industry body.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) has said in an emergency budget submission that investors could lose confidence in the sector.

Plans to change capital gains tax could result in a 'fire sale', claims one industry body.

The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has urged the government to rank private rented property as an "entrepreneurial business activity" for capital gains tax purposes.

One in five of the UK population could become renters, according to new research.

The Building and Social Housing Foundation (BSHF) has predicted that the private rented sector (PRS) will be larger than the social rented sector by 2013, based on current trends.

Residential landlords who have added new properties to their rental portfolios could be among the increased number of people taking out a fixed-rate mortgage.

The latest Mortgage Index from John Charcol has revealed that 26 per cent of borrowers took out a fixed-rate deal last month.

Residential landlords could be set to benefit from a simpler private rented sector after housing minister Grant Shapps vowed to scrap plans to bring in new regulations.

Mr Shapps said that the vast majority of the UK's three million private tenants are satisfied with the service they receive from their landlords.

Residential landlords contemplating acquiring new properties for their rental portfolios could be tempted to make their move following the comments of one expert.
Stuart Inman, director at MyMortgageDirect, said that providing investors have got the capital to put up a "decent-sized deposit", now is a reasonable time to purchase a property.

Landlords could also be encouraged by Mr Inman's views on a recent report comparing rent and mortgage prices.

The National Landlords Association (NLA) has called on the new coalition government to make changes to the way the local housing allowance (LHA) is distributed.

According to NLA statistics, in 2009 a total of �4.229 million was lost by 949 residential landlords as a result of LHA-based rent arrears.

Residential landlords who are looking to purchase properties to add to their rental portfolios could be among those to benefit from an increase in supply.

According to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), housing supply in the UK has been boosted by the abolishment of home information packs (Hips).

House prices are set to stabilise in areas of "high demand", according to one industry body.

The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has said that increased supply will see prices dip in some areas and stabilise in others.

It follows the publication of a report by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, which revealed that more houses are expected to be put up for sale now that home information packs (Hips) have been abolished.

The rising level of housing stock is as much down to a lack of transactions as it is an increase in confidence, according to one expert.

Lucian Cook, director at global real estate service provider Savills, said bad news regarding the economy has probably led to a weakening of confidence in the housing market.

Landlords in the buy-to-let sector will be badly affected by any increase in capital gains tax, it has been claimed.

The Residential Landlords Association (RLA) said that the tax, which currently stands at 18 per cent, would be "devastating" to landlords if it is brought in line with earnings.

The strengthening of the property market has made lenders more comfortable, it has been claimed.

Simon Rubinsohn, chief economist at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), explained that the "better tone" in the market has encouraged lenders.

The National Landlords Association (NLA) has welcomed the government's commitment to scrapping the planned national register of landlords.

Housing minister Grant Shapps said in the House of Commons that the legislation would not be brought forward by the coalition.

The new coalition government is ignoring the need for a balanced housing market.

This is the view of the National Landlords Association (NLA) following housing minister Grant Shapps' recent speech about home ownership.

According to Vincenzo Rampulla, NLA public affairs manager, Mr Shapps' speech was "just another ritual offering at the altar of home ownership".

Residential landlords in the UK who are looking to add to their rental portfolios could be among those to be encouraged by recent discussions about the home buying process.

The Building Societies Association (BSA) said the housing industry can work together to make the process of buying and selling property easier.

Residential landlords operating in the UK could be among those to look into remortgaging some of their properties following the comments of one expert.

Ray Boulger of leading independent mortgage adviser John Charcol said homeowners can offset the impact of government cuts by remortgaging and reducing their monthly payments.

A scheme set up to register residential landlords in Scotland is "clearly not working", it has been claimed.

Alex Johnstone, housing spokesman for the Conservative Party, has written to housing minister Alex Neil demanding that the registration initiative be reviewed.

House prices in the UK fell by 0.4 per cent in May compared to the previous month, new figures from Halifax have suggested.

The bank's monthly house price index showed that the average value of a property in the country now stands at £167,570.

Optimism about the future of the property market has risen among landlords for the fifth consecutive quarter, new research has revealed.

The study by BDRC Continental found that almost one in three landlords is making profits on their assets and is able to save.

Residential landlords who are looking to add new property to their portfolios could find that competition is high and prices are rising, it has been suggested.

Timothy Lambert, head of consulting at property investment consultancy Ducalian, said prospective property purchasers could find they are in competition with six other buyers for one property.

The choice of mortgage products for buy-to-let landlords and other homeowners has increased by 42 per cent since July 2009, according to new figures.

Data from a recently-published moneysupermarket.com report has revealed that the number of mortgages available on the market has broken the 3,000 barrier for the first time since last summer.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has called on the new coalition government to use the emergency Budget to prioritise support for homeowners.

Chancellor George Osborne is set to deliver his first Budget on June 22nd and the CML has called for support for homeowners, despite recognising that the UK's current fiscal position leaves "little room for manoeuvre".

Residential landlords in the UK who offer properties on an all-bills-included basis could be seeing their profits eroded by a postcode lottery on energy prices.

According to a new report by price comparison website uSwitch.com, homeowners could be paying more for their energy because of where their properties are based.

Residential landlords will only be affected by a rise in capital gains tax (CGT) if they decide to sell their properties now, it has been claimed.

However, the National Landlords Association (NLA) has said the majority of landlords are unlikely to be affected as they see their properties as a long-term investment.

Landlords and other mortgage customers at Lloyds TSB and Cheltenham and Gloucester are unlikely to look elsewhere for new deals, it has been claimed.

It comes after the financial establishments announced that their standard variable rates on their mortgage deals increased at the beginning of this month.

Landlords who offer lets on an all-bills-included basis could be among those to be interested in new comments on energy improvements.

Dr Hasim Altan, from the University of Sheffield, has urged homeowners to make energy-saving alterations, such as installing insulation, to their properties during the summer, as they will have more money available while their heating bills are lower.

The removal of home information packs (Hips) will have little effect on the UK's housing market, it has been claimed.

Residential landlords and other property purchasers were cheered by the news that the expensive packs have been suspended with a view to being scrapped last month.

The vast majority of UK residential landlords are opposed to a rise in capital gains tax (CGT), according to a new report.

Figures from a study by LSL Property Services have revealed that 90 per cent of landlords are against plans to increase the CGT rate.

Residential landlords with multiple property portfolios could be among those to benefit from rising house prices in the UK.

Recently-published figures from the Land Registry's House Price Index have revealed that values in the UK have increased by 8.5 per cent in the last year.

Residential landlords who are looking to acquire new properties could be among those affected by a rising number of "time wasters" in the housing market.

David Amstell, founder of property website Briffy.com, said now that home information packs (Hips) have been scrapped, "chancers" can put their properties up for sale just to see what they are worth.

Residential landlords looking to acquire buy-to-let properties in seaside UK towns could be encouraged to take their search to Withernsea following the publication of a new report.

According to the latest Halifax Seaside Town Review, the town, which is near Hull and Grimsby, is the most affordable coastal area in the UK.

Residential landlords and other homeowners who are looking to make energy saving alterations to their properties should be supported by the government.

This is the view of Stewart Purchase, director of the housing division at Geothermal International, who said grants to help with the initial costs of installing measures such as heat pump technology are the "key".

Residential landlords operating in the UK could be among the homeowners advised to remortgage their property in the current market.

According to Stuart Law, chief executive of property investment advisor Assetz, there are currently some very good deals available.

The recently-revealed rise in UK rents is not surprising, according to one industry expert.

Tom Entwistle, director of online information source LandlordZONE.co.uk, said the current climate is very much geared towards the rental sector as mortgages are still "out of reach" for many first-time buyers.

Residential landlords operating in the UK who are looking to acquire new-build properties for their portfolios will notice little activity in the construction sector this year.

This is according to two new reports by leading industry bodies in the country.

Residential landlords in the UK's private rented sector are experiencing high demand from the country's student population, according to a new report.

A survey by AccommodationforStudents.com has revealed that 88 per cent of Britain's 1.2 million undergraduate university students live in properties rented out by private sector landlords, the Residential Landlords Association (RLA) reported.

Residential landlords in Scotland could be among those who were put off from acquiring new properties in the first three months of this year.

According to new figures published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), Scotland has experienced the same 33 per cent drop in mortgage activity as the rest of the UK in the first quarter of the year.

Residential landlords operating in the UK could be set to benefit from the national roll-out of an accreditation scheme.

After successful trials in Bournemouth, Hastings, Middlesbrough, Rother and Tameside, the National Landlords Association (NLA) has announced that it is to make its NLA Accreditation scheme national.

Residential landlords in the UK could be pleased to know that rent prices are being pushed up by an increase in demand.

According to a recently-published report by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), demand for rental accommodation is outstripping supply.

The value of residential landlords' portfolios is on the rise, according to a new report.

Figures from a recently-published study by Paragon Mortgages revealed that the average value of landlords' portfolios has increased by 6.1 per cent in the first three months of 2010.

Landlords looking to purchase new properties for their portfolios could be encouraged to take out a tracker mortgage following the comments of one expert.

Ray Boulger, senior technical manager at independent mortgage adviser John Charcol, said tracker mortgages offer the best value in the current climate as interest rates are likely to remain low for "some time".

UK landlords could maximise the potential of their properties and increase their rental and sale value by transforming garage spaces.

A recently-published report by Santander has revealed that 1.1 million garages are no longer being used to house cars, as homeowners look to use the space for studies, bedrooms and utility rooms.

Residential landlords who let part or fully furnished properties could be inspired to make sure they are adequately insured following the publication of recent burglary figures.

According to a report by the Clydesdale and Yorkshire banks, uninsured burglary victims face an annual bill of £200 million.

Residential landlords who are looking to add new-build properties to their portfolios could be among those to benefit from an increase in new developments in the UK.

Figures recently published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) revealed that there were 24,930 house building starts in the first quarter of 2010.

The announcement that the new government has suspended home information packs (Hips) with immediate effect should be seen as the start of things to come.

This is the view of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), which said it is looking for the coalition to use the measure as a springboard to improving the home buying process in the UK.

Buying and selling properties has become a simpler and cheaper process for residential landlords and other home buyers with the suspension of home information packs (Hips).

The news has been welcomed by many organisations in the housing sector and lender Paragon Mortgages has said "goodbye and good riddance" to Hips, which it said were the "wrong vehicle" to improve the house buying process in the UK.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has called on the government to address funding issues in the UK's housing market.

It follows the publication of the organisation's latest monthly mortgage lending data, which revealed a decline in the value of home loans.

The news that home information packs (Hips) have been suspended has been welcomed by the UK's estate agents.

Trade organisation the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), said the news is "very welcome" after the "turbulent" market conditions seen over the course of the last 12 months.

Confidence among British residential landlords is at a three-year high, according to a new report.

Figures from the National Landlord Association's (NLA) latest Landlords Optimism Index have revealed that 57 per cent of residential property investors rate the overall prospects of their lettings business as "good" or "very good" over the next three months.

Residential landlords in the UK are feeling "reasonably confident" about the future of the housing market, according to one expert.

Chris Horne, editor at information website Property Hawk, said that rents are currently stable and rising in some cases and demand is "strong" as first-time buyers are putting of purchasing their own property.

Mortgages for new homes are increasingly being taken out through intermediaries, new research has revealed.

The report from trade body IMLA found that 62 per cent of total mortgage lending in the first three months of the year was sought through brokers.

Residential landlords in the UK could be set to see the rental market sustained as potential buyers are finding it more difficult to obtain mortgages.

Paul Holmes, chief executive officer of first-time buyer information service Firtsrung has said trying to get a mortgage in today's market is like attempting to get a home loan in the 1970s and 1980s.

The housing market needs more buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage products to deal with the "robust" demand from investors, it has been claimed.

Paragon Mortgages has announced that it is in discussions about supporting new lending and feels other lenders should do the same in order for the BTL market to grow.

The appointment of Conservative MP Grant Shapps as the housing minister for the new coalition government shows a certain level of consistency.

This is the view of the National Landlords Association (NLA), which pointed out that Mr Shapps has held the shadow brief for a number of years.

Residential landlords in the UK could be set to benefit from the emergence of a new player in the buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage market.

Home loan lender Kensington has announced its entrance on the market with the launch of a new range of products aimed at BTL investors.

Residential landlords and UK tenants could both be benefiting from low interest rates on buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage deals.

This is the view of private rental sector expert Malcolm Harrison, who said if interest rates are kept low, it is easier for landlords to pay off their mortgages, which is also a good thing for tenants.

Increasing capital gains tax (CGT) and applying it to residential landlords could "undermine" any return to confidence in the UK's private rental sector (PRS).

This is the view of the Residential Landlords Association (RLA) following an announcement from the new coalition government that an increase in personal income tax allowances for low and middle income earners is to be paid for by a rise in CGT rates for non-business assets.

Landlords may be adversely affected by the proposed increase to the capital gains tax, an industry group has warned.

The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) said that raising the tax will threaten the private rental sector, which currently represents more than three million homes.

Landlords looking to offload or purchase properties in the UK could be among those to benefit from the end of home information packs (Hips).

Selwyn Lim, director of property market information website Mouseprice.com, said it looks as though Hips will "definitely be abolished" as both the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties campaigned for this in their manifestos.

Residential landlords in the UK could be among those to benefit from the current low cost of short-term fixed-rate mortgages.

According to the latest figures from the Bank of England, the cost of short-term fixed-rate deals is at its lowest level since record began in 1995.

Residential landlords in the UK could be among those to notice volatility in the country's residential market.

Andrew Styles, a senior consultant at independent property investment consultancy Ducalian, said the market remains in a fragile state and the "green shoots" of recovery that were predicted last year have yet turn in to a full recovery.

Residential landlords in the UK could be among those to benefit from a change in attitudes among the country's mortgage lenders.

According to price comparison website moneysupermarket.com, the mortgage market has relaxed and this could be "great news for borrowers".

Residential landlords in the UK should not have to pay tax on capital gains from the sale of their properties.

This is the view of the National Landlords Association (NLA), which said the sale of residential property must be included as "generous exemptions" if capital gains tax (CGT) is increased under the new government.

Residential landlords operating in the UK could be among those to have lost confidence in the country's mortgage sector following the banking crisis.

Recent research carried out on behalf of Kensington Mortgages revealed that 44 per cent of Brits now have less confidence in their ability to get the right mortgage product for their needs.

With interest rates at an all-time low, mortgage borrowers are choosing tracker deals over fixed-rate loans, according to new research.

A survey by Paragon Mortgages showed that the proportion of borrows opting for trackers has overtaken those taking out fixed-rate mortgages for the first time in 12 months.

April saw an increase in seller activity in the UK housing market, according to figures from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

The data showed that the average estate agent branch had 62 registered sellers on their books last month, up from 60 in March.

A quarter of all available mortgage deals are restricted to existing customers, according to a new report.

Figures taken from a recently-published study by financial research expert Defaqto have revealed that the number of mortgages available in the UK has increased from 1,686 in July 2009 to 2,948 today.

Residential landlords look set to benefit from increased competition among buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage lenders, it has been suggested.

Earlier this week, lender Mortgage Works announced that it is increasing the loan-to-value ratio of its BTL home loans to 80 per cent.

The UK housing market has been lifted by "spring optimism" despite the political uncertainty that currently grips the country.

This is the view of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), which said a number of surveyors are expecting a post-election "bounce".

While the UK's housing market is "more positive" than it has been, a return to "sensible" mortgage lending levels is needed before a sustainable recovery is seen.

This is the view of the Home Builders Federation (HBF), which said house building stabilised toward the end of 2009 after going through "probably the most difficult period in its history" in the last two years.

Landlords operating in the UK could soon benefit from cheaper buy-to-let (BTL) loans, it has been suggested.

The Residential Landlords Association (RLA) said some current deals have seen a number of lenders reduce their rates and increase their loan-to-value (LTV) ratios.

Residential landlords in the East Midlands are set to benefit from free advice at a forthcoming event in the area.

The National Landlords Association (NLA) is to host a series of events across the region in a bid to highlight changes to the law that will affect the way landlords operate.

Residential landlords operating in the UK expect to see the value of their properties remain stable this year.

That is according to the latest quarterly index from the Young Group, which revealed that 78 per cent of landlords feel that property prices will remain "relatively stable" over the next 12 months.

Residential landlords in Scotland could be among those benefiting from an increase in house sale activity in the country.

A recently-published report from the Registers of Scotland revealed that housing transactions increased by 24.3 per cent in the first quarter of this year.

Residential landlords who are looking to add to their rental portfolios could be among those to benefit from an increase in mortgage activity this year.

Home loan advice service What Mortgage said business has been improving in recent months and mortgage brokers are "fairly confident" about the rest of the year.

Residential landlords in Scotland could be among those seeing the value of their property being boosted by strong demand.

Property agency Rettie & Co said prices in the country are holding up as a result of strong demand and limited supply.

Residential landlords and other property owners will notice a slow recovery to the housing market, it has been suggested.

Catherine Hearnden, director of MyMortgageDirect, said the slowdown in mortgage lending can be attributed to "good" increases on what was a very low starting point.

The £16.7 million the Scottish government has spent on its Landlords Registration Scheme would have had a greater effect on raising standards in the sector had it been spent on training and advice.

This is the view of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), which said the scheme has had an "extremely limited effect" on addressing bad practice in the private rented sector.

Residential landlords in the UK could be among those to be encouraged by a recent house price forecast by the Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR).

According to the organisation, UK house prices will increase by five per cent by the end of 2010 despite the "sluggish" start to the year.

Residential landlords in Scotland look set to benefit from expert advice at a forthcoming roadshow.

A series of events has been scheduled in the country by the National Landlords Association (NLA) which are intended to give landlords a platform to discuss the future of renting.

There is no place in the private rented sector for "amateur landlords", it has been claimed.

Alan Ward, chairman of the Residential Landlords Association (RLA), called for all landlords within the sector to act professionally.

Residential landlords in the UK could be set to benefit from the publication of new advice on how to be more tax efficient.

According to specialist lender Paragon Mortgages, buy-to-let landlords need to ensure they are "making the most" of their allowable tax breaks.

Residential landlords that are looking to improve their properties or embark on new developments could be among those to be encouraged by recent comments on planning.

Specialist property provider GL Hearn said the UK's planning system is too complex and is in need of relaxation.

UK landlords could continue to benefit from potential first-time buyers remaining in the rental market after one expert said the impact of the new stamp duty holiday has been "overestimated".

Paul Holmes, chief executive officer of Firstrung, an advice service for first-time buyers, said the overall effect of the government's actions hasn't provided the impact on the market that people "would like to believe".

Residential landlords in the UK have been discouraged from adopting a hands-off approach in order to achieve success.

James Davis, chief executive officer at upad.co.uk, said taking a back seat is not the best approach to take if landlords want to keep hold of tenants.

Residential landlords operating in the UK could be among those to be encouraged by new house price figures.

A recently-published Nationwide report revealed that the current average price of a UK home stands at £167,802 after a monthly increase of one per cent.

Residential landlords in the UK are dipping in to their personal savings to make mortgage payments as void incidents remain high, according to new research.

A recently-published report from the National Landlords Association (NLA) has revealed that while landlords with large portfolios can cover cost with rents from other properties, 43 per cent are using personal savings to "plug the shortfall".

Residential landlords in the UK could be benefitting from prolonged tenancies with potential first-time buyers.

A recently-published report from mortgage specialist John Charcol has revealed that first-time buyer mortgages accounted for just seven per cent of loans in March.

The UK's buy-to-let (BTL) sector is currently attractive for investment, despite limitations in mortgage activity, new research has shown.

According to a recent report from LSL Property Services, 48 per cent of property investors feel the BTL market is "attractive" in its current state.

Mortgage customers in the UK are being urged to switch to fixed rate deals as rates are currently at a three-year low.

A recently-released report by moneysupermarket.com has revealed average fixed rates have fallen to their lowest levels since April 2007.

A new split loan mortgage deal, which is to be offered by HSBC, could be too complex to appeal to house buyers, according to one expert.

The bank recently announced the product, which allows customers to fix a proportion of their mortgage, while allowing the rest to remain on a variable rate.

Residential landlords operating portfolios in the UK have been extended an invitation to an advice 'webinar' later this week.

Online letting agency Upad.co.uk is to host the guidance session, entitled Death of the Amateur Landlords - How to run your property as a business, in a bid to reduce the length of void periods suffered by landlords.

Residential landlords in the UK could be encouraged by details of a new deal to be offered by Godiva Mortgages.

The lender has reduced the pay rate on its two-year fixed rate buy-to-let (BTL) product.

As part of Godiva's BTL range, the mortgage now boasts a rate of 4.59 per cent, a 0.15 per cent reduction on the previous 4.74 per cent rate.

Scottish residential landlords who offer properties on an all-bills-included basis could be among those to benefit from new advice from one expert.

Blane Judd, chief executive at the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, said homeowners need to ensure new boilers are regularly maintained in order to gain the largest financial benefits.

Buy-to-let (BTL) landlords in the UK cold face a challenging time in the coming months, according to new research.

A recent survey, carried out by Simply Business, has claimed that the gradual increase of house prices is "mixed news" for the BTL sector.

Residential landlords in the UK that are considering acquiring new-build properties to add to their portfolios could be among those interested in recent comments by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

The organisation has voiced its concerns at Liberal Democrat proposals to introduce VAT on the sale of all new homes.

Residential landlords in the UK may experience new or increased tenancies from potential first-time buyers due to difficulties raising deposits.

Helen Adams, managing director of FirstRungNow.com, said the low level of first-time buyers is "absolutely to be expected" as it is "very difficult" to raise a large deposit.

Residential landlords in the UK are experiencing the triple benefit of increased rents, increased house prices and reduced arrears, according to a new report.

A recently-released study from LSL Property Services revealed that the average rent in the UK now stands at £659 per month.

Residential landlords in the UK have been reminded of their responsibilities with regard to fire safety by an incident in Swindon.

One landlord in the area has been fined £8,366 after his property was deemed to be dangerous by environmental health officers, the Swindon Advertiser reported.