It’s a bit scary waking up each morning at the moment, finding out what politicians – whether in power or not – are planning to do to ‘fix’ the housing market! To date, some policies appear to be doing the job they were intended for. Read on to find out why I'm concerned.

In my latest price report, a recent survey by Zoopla says that “Confident homeowners predict 4.8% house price growth”. Fortunately, not everyone thinks this will happen or the market could grind to a halt even more than it already has in some areas! Find out which areas people think prices will rise by 5% or fall by nearly 7% - what do you think will happen?

2019 will prove a decisive year for the direction of the private rented sector. The government has increased the costs to let for both landlords and agents and increased the number of hoops they have to jump through to let legally. On top of this, they have increased the chance and the level of fines with Local Authorities able to charge up to £30,000 for serious breaches. And, although the government may be 'patting itself on the back' for reducing the percentage of households in the PRS versus home ownership, the loss of homes to rent is likely to be one of the main causes of any increases in homelessness and evictions, especially as our population is still rising.  This continued 'attack' on those operating in the Private Rented Sector is set to continue. 

Want to know more about the 4 Year Rule?  If you need a formal decision from your council to show that your existing use or development is lawful, then you can submit an application for Certificate of Lawfulness, known as 4 Year Rule Planning. Ever wonder how landlords convert their houses into a number of flats without first seeking planning permission? Ever wonder how restaurateurs convert A1 Retail Shops into A3 Restaurants without first seeking planning permission? Read on to find out.