Stamp Duty receipts hit £13.7 billion by November 2025, a 19% increase from 2024. Despite speculation, the Autumn Budget left the ‘outdated’ system unchanged, impacting various UK homebuyers.

The Bank of England has cut interest rates to 3.75%, the lowest since early 2023. This move offers potential relief for UK borrowers, including contractors, self-employed, and first-time buyers, though future cuts may be slower.

UK mortgage rates have fallen to their lowest since September 2022, offering significant savings. This competitive market is a welcome development for diverse borrowers, including first-time buyers and those with complex finances.

The OECD forecasts the Bank of England will conclude rate cuts at 3.5% by mid-2026, offering limited mortgage relief. Borrowers, especially contractors and first-time buyers, should expect a stable but cautious market.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget 2025 unveils a ‘mansion tax’ for properties over £2 million and increased income tax on rental earnings, impacting UK homeowners, landlords, and those navigating complex financial situations.

UK First-Time Buyers are increasingly turning to lower-deposit mortgages and external support to achieve homeownership, as highlighted by Barclays’ latest property insights amidst ongoing affordability challenges.

UK GDP grew just 0.1% in the three months to September—half of what analysts predicted. The slowdown, paired with a cooling jobs market, increases the likelihood of another base rate cut in December, which could reduce mortgage costs for borrowers.

HSBC has raised its mortgage lending cap to 6.5× annual income, up from the standard 4.5× limit, giving high earners access to over £200,000 in additional borrowing power. However, the offer is only available to Premier customers earning £100,000 or more, highlighting growing competition among lenders as rate cuts edge closer.